EFFECTS OF
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
Region X
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THE EFFECTS OF DREDGING ON WATER QUALITY
IN THE NORTHWEST
Prepared
By
Gary O'Neal
Jack Sceva
Environmental Protection Agency
Office of Water Programs
Region X
Seattle, Washington
July 1971
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CONTENTS
Page
INTRODUCTION , 1
Problem 1
Purpose 2
Authority 3
Objectives 3
Scope 3
Acknowledgements 4
SUMMARY - 5
Findings and Conclusions 5
Recommendations 7
DREDGING EOUIPMENT
Pipeline Dredges ......... 11
General Description 11
Mode of Operation 13
Advantages and Limitations 15
Hopper Dredges ..... ..... 16
General Description 16
Mode of Operation 17
Advantages and Limitations . 17
Use in Pacific Northwest 19
Bucket Dredges 19
General Description 19
Mode of Operation 20
Advantages and Limitations ..... 20
Use in Pacific Northwest 21
Other Dredge Types 21
Barges 21
SPOIL DISPOSAL PRACTICES 25
Disposal in Water 25
Disposal on Land 27
Double-Handling of Spoil 31
REVIEW OF LITERATURE ON ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS
ASSOCIATED WITH DREDGING 33
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CONTENTS (Continued)
Types of Problems 33
Results of Individual Studies 34
Great Lakes Studies 33
Calumet River Pilot Project 38
Inland Steel Landfill Lagoon . . 39
Green Bay Pilot Study 40
Cleveland Harbor Dredging Effects Study . . 41
Cleveland Diked Dredging Disposal Area Investigation 42
Pilot Study of Rouge River Dredging 43
Great Sodus Bay Dredging Study 44
SEDIMENT CHARACTERISTICS IN NORTHWEST HARBORS .... 45
Sampling and Analyses ..... .. 45
Selection of Sampling Locations . 45
Sampling Techniques 46
Types of Analyses 47
\
Summary of Analytical Data 48
Chemical Data 48
Physical Data 51
FIELD STUDIES OF NORTHWEST DREDGING PROJECTS . 55
General Approach . ........ 55
Discussion of Specific Studies . 55
Terminal 4, Portland Harbor 55
Turbidity Sampling, Portland Harbor 57
Depot Slough, Toledo, Oregon 59
Santiatn River Dredging Project 60
Chambers Creek Estuary 61
Bellingham Bay Dredging Project 63
DISCUSSION 67
Water Quality Problems 67
Dredging Techniques 69
Dredging Permit System 70
Planning 71
BIBLIOGRAPHY 75
APPENDIX A Criteria for I etermining Acceptability of
Dredged Spoil Disposal to the Nation's Waters 77
APPENDIX B Characteristics of Sediment Samples from
Harbor Areas in Oregon and Washington 83
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FIGURES
Figure Page
1 Small pipeline dredge. 11
2 Bucket dredges employed in the construction of a
yacht basin near Bellingham, Washington 12
3 Filling of a hopper on the Corps of Engineer's
dredge "Harding" 18
4 Foam and turbid water being discharged during hopper
filling operations 18
5 Bucket dredges employed in the construction of a
yacht basin near Seattle 22
6 North entrance of yacht basin near Seattle ..... 22
7 Maintenance dredging in the Willamette TULver .... 26
8 Maintenance dredging at the mouth of the Santiam
River. 26
9 Barge being emptied in Puget Sound .... 28
10 Close-up showing hydraulic jet from tug being used
to wash material overboard ..... 28
11 Spoil from a pipeline dredge being discharged to a
settling pond at Terminal 4, Portland, Oregon. ... 30
12 Overflow pipes from the settling pond 30
13 Settling test of Portland Harbor Sediments 52
14 Dredging operation monitored at Bellingham Bay,
Washington 65
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TABLES
Table Page
1 Pipeline Dredges Operating in the Pacific Northwest . . 14
2 Hopper Dredges Operating in the Pacific Northwest ... 16
3 Bottom Sampling Areas and Sample Numbers 46
4 Mean and Range of Selected Chemical Parameters
Determined for Bottom Sediments 49
5 Chemical Comparison of Highly Polluted and Relatively
Unpolluted Bottom Samples 50
6 Frequency Distribution of Silt-Clay Fraction 51
7 Average Characteristics of Basin Influent and
Effluent at Terminal 4 56
8 Turbidity Profiles - Bellingham Bay 66
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INTRODUCTION
Problem
Dredging is one of the most extensive construction activities
in the rivers and harbors of the Pacific Northwest. Maintenance
dredging to insure adequate water depths in channels and dock areas
is a continuing job. Development of new port and industrial areas
often results in the dredging of fill material from nearby rivers
or bays. Innumerable small-scale dredging jobs are carried out in
log ponds, boat basins, etc.
Dredging removes and redeposits tremendous quantities of
material. In Oregon, alone, estimates of the volume of material
dredged range up to 30 million cubic yards per year. The material
dredged (spoil) varies from clean river sand to organic sludge.
Some of this material is deposited on land. A significant portion of
the spoil, however, is dumped back into the water, or immediately
adjacent to it. The possible adverse effects of this material on
water quality and on the aquatic environment is of serious concern
to the public and to the agencies charged with protecting the quality
of the environment.
The Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899 specifies that plans for
building bridges, dams, pipelines, piers, etc. in or across a navi-
gable waterway must be approved by the Corps of Engineers by issuance
of a permit. The same restriction applies for dredging in navigable
waters.
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In July, 1967, the Secretaries of the Department of the Army
and Interior signed a Memorandum of Understanding which established
a procedure for the environmental and fisheries agencies to review
proposed project plans and comment on possible problems.' This
memorandum provides that consideration be given to the pollutional
aspects of dredging operations, including spoil disposal, and
measures to control adverse environmental effects. As a result of
this agreement, all applications for dredging permits are submitted
to Federal and State environmental and fisheries agencies for review-
Any conditions or changes proposed by EPA or other agencies are con-
sidered by the Corps in issuing a permit.
Purpose
Soon after establishment of this review procedure, definite
need was recognized for background data on river bottom materials,
operating characteristics of dredging equipment, and spoil disposal
practices. This study was planned and carried out to provide some
of this information to aid in improving the adequacy of the permit
review system.
I/ On December 2, 1970, the Presidential Order creating an
independent Environmental Protection Agency took effect. The EPA
incorporates many Federal programs concerning the environment,
including water pollution control. The Federal Water Quality Admin-
istration in the Department of Interior was abolished and the water
pollution control responsibilities and authorities of the Secretary
of the Interior were transferred to the Administrator of EPA.
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Authority
Section 5 of the Federal Water Pollution Control Act, as amended,
authorizes the conduct of studies relating to the causes, control,
and prevention of water pollution.
Objectives
The objectives of this project were to answer the following
questions:
1. What are the methods used in dredging and spoil disposal?
2. What are-the sediment characteristics in known or potential
dredging areas in the Pacific Northwest?
3. What are the effects of dredging and spoil disposal on the
aquatic environment?
4. What information should be available to evaluate a proposed
dredging proj-ect and what should be monitored during a
dredging surveillance program?
5. What prevention, control, or abatement measures may be used
to reduce or eliminate any adverse environmental effects
due to dredging?
Scope
The material and recommendations presented in this report are
intended largely as a compilation of background information for use
by those engaged in the regulation of dredging operations. Specific
recommendations on individual water quality protection requirements
are discussed only generally since they will vary considerably
depending upon the location and type of dredging. Field activities
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4
were conducted in the coastal areas of Oregon and Washington and in the
Columbia and Willamette Rivers. Active dredging projects were visited
to gain insight into operating procedures. Field sampling was conducted
to obtain bottom samples for chemical and physical characterization
and to measure the effects of active dredging projects on water quality.
Literature on environmental problems associated with dredging was also
reviewed.
Acknowledgements
The Environmental Protection Agency received the assistance of
many individuals and organizations in the conduct of this study.
Those providing direct assistance were:
U.S. Department of the Army, Corps of Engineers
Portland District
Seattle District
Commission of Public Docks, Portland
West Tacoma Newsprint Corporation
Georgia Pacific Corporation
Foss Tug and Barge Company
Willamette Western Corporation
Their cooperation and assistance is gratefully acknowledged.
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SUMMARY
Findings and Conclusions
1. The location of spoil disposal areas is often on a
job-to-job or "emergency" basis to meet timing requirements desired
by commercial and port interest. This is particularly true on
privately financed projects. Conflicts in land use and competi-
tion for land is making the availability of acceptable sites for
land disposal of spoil more and more difficult. Planning for spoil
disposal is very limited and local in scope, and little effort has
been expended in the development of long-term plans for such disposal.
2. The disturbance of bottom materials by pipeline and grapple
dredging and the discharge of spoil materials can significantly re-
duce dissolved oxygen levels, cover or smother bottom organisms,
and release toxic compounds in localized areas.
3. The chief visible effect from pipeline dredging is the
turbidity plume created by the spoil disposal operation.
4. Spoil disposal from a pipeline dredge in Bellingham harbor
produced very little visible surface effects; however, it created a
submarine mudflow that moved outside the boundaries of the prescribed
disposal area. Slurry samples from this mudflow had a dissolved
oxygen level (DO) of 0.0 milligrams per liter (mg/1) and total
solids (TS) of about 75,000 mg/1 above background level.
5. The overflow from hopper dredges during dredging produces
a turbidity plume that trails the ship.
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6. Where observed, the emptying of hopper dredges created
little visible effect on water quality.
7. Data in the literature indicate that hopper dredging in
areas with polluted sediments can produce significant degradation
in water quality', however, the current uses of hopper dredges to
maintain harbor entrances and channels in the Pacific Northwest do
not create significant adverse water quality effects.
8. Unloading barges with hydraulic jets can produce large
turbidity plumes.
9. Spoil disposal by bottom-dump barges creates a less visible
effect on water quality than the use of deck type barges.
10. The dredging and disposal of material in a partially con-
fined area behind a dike or breakwater can be an effective method of
restricting or retaining the movement of turbid water and insuring
the retention of spoil material within a specified area.
11. The design and operation of diked areas for the land dis-
posal of dredge spoil often provides an inadequate detention time for
settling of the waste water prior to its discharge into the receiving
water.
12. The settling rate of sediments from Pacific Northwest
harbors is much more rapid in salt water than in fresh water.
13. The development of a healthy biological population is in-
hibited when the volatile solids content of bottom sediments is ten
percent or higher.
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Re c onime nd a t i o ns
1. All dredge spoils exceeding the limits expressed in Water
Quality Office (WQO) guidelines entitled "Criteria for Polluted
Dredge Spoil," should be disposed of on land.
These criteria were adopted by the WQO in December
1970. A copy of the criteria is presented in Appendix A.
2. Zoning should be initiated in rivers, estuaries, bays, and
nearshore continental shelf areas so as to define areas where dredg-
ing and/or the disposal of dredge spoil is prohibited.
Zoning is needed to point out the specific areas that
are in most need of protection from dredging operations.
These include spawning areas and productive estuarine areas.
Consideration should also be given to restricting the time
of the year that acceptable areas are subject to dredging
so as to minimize any threat to fish migrations, spawning
cycles of shellfish, etc.
3. Local and regional planning for the development of long-
term land disposal sites for dredge spoil should be initiated for all
harbor areas in the Pacific Northwest.
The planning for each area should be undertaken by
personnel from State and Federal regulatory and resource
agencies, the Corps of Engineers, local governments and
planning agencies, port and dock commissions, and dredging
contractors. The planning should result in the location
and development of a site or sites to be utilized for land
disposal of dredge spoil. When material from a given pro-
ject required land disposal, or if no zoned water disposal
area is available, all contractors will be required to use
the designated disposal site.
4. Water quality standards criteria for dredge spoil and other
guidelines and regulations as appropriate should be incorporated into
water quality standards adopted by the States and EPA.
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In many States, the existing approved standards make
general statements regarding certain essential activities,
such as dredging, which may result in temporaty standards
violations. These statements indicate that short-term
exemptions to the standards may be approved for activities
of this type. More specific standards which relate to the
characteristics of identified water bodies should be added.
5. Where xoning has determined that dredge spoil disposal into
the shallow waters of rivers, bays and estuaries is the least environ-
mentally degrading method, controls should be implemented to minimize
the effects on water quality.
Methods of improving shallow water disposal practices
include:
a. disposal inside porous diked enclosures;
b. disposal into basins surrounded by underwater dikes;
c. disposal into sumps;
d. location of the disposal point to maximize re-
tention of spoil in a specified area;
e. use of deflecting berms to minimize current flow
through a spoil area.
6. Land disposal of spoil in diked areas should be conducted
to minimize the possible adverse effects on the aquatic environment.
Suggested improvements in the design of disposal
ponds or lagoons include:
a. locating the inlet and outlet to prevent short
circuiting;
b. installing adequate discharge controls;
c. providing a capacity and a detention time based
on the settling characteristics.
7. Applicants for dredging permits should be required to pro-
vide data on the chemical and physical characteristics of the
material to be dredged.
The WQO and/or State water pollution control agencies
will specify the number of samples, recommended sampling
method, and type of analyses. Analyses should be conducted
at qualified laboratories using specific test procedures
approved by the WQO.
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8. The regulatory agencies should monitor selected projects to
insure compliance with permit requirements, followed by enforcement
action where necessary, and to evaluate the effectiveness of control
measures.
The monitoring would determine compliance with permit
requirements. It would also provide additional background
information for improving the permit review procedure.
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DREDGING EQUIPMENT
Pipeline Dredges
General Description
A hydraulic pipeline dredge, commonly called a pipeline dredge,
consists of a large centrifugal pump mounted on a specially designed
barge. Bottom materials are brought up to the pump through a large
suction pipe and are pumped from the dredge to the disposal area
through a pipeline (Figure 1).
The suction pipe is lowered to the bottom on a large hinged
ladder that extends forward from the front, or bow, of the barge
(Figure 1). The dredging depth is controlled by cables that can
raise or lower the ladder. The bottom of the suction pipe is gener-
ally equipped with a revolving cutter-head that breaks up the bottom
materials so that they can be drawn into the suction pipe. The
cutter-head is turned by a shaft that extends down the ladder from a
power source on the barge. On some dredges the cutter-head is re-
placed by a water jet that breaks up or loosens the bottom sediments.
The dredge pump is usually a large-capacity, single-stage
centrifugal type that has sufficient clearance to pass anything that
can move through the openings in the cutter head and enter the suction
pipe. The pipeline, extending from the dredge to the shore or to an
area of water disposal, floats on pontoons. To move coarse material
through the pipe, a fluid velocity of at least 12 feet per second (fps)
is necessary. Consequently, the larger the discharge pipe, the
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-. r ,, :, :',,':;
. / , ,> "/,,
,. '. ': ,.-,.. .. .. iidj . _.. .
FIGURE 1 Small pipeline dredge. Cutter-head
visible at left.
FIGURE 2 Bucket dredges employed in the construction
of a yacht basin near Bellingham, Washing-
ton.
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greater the pump capacity required. The fluid volume moving through
a 24-inch pipeline at 12 fps is about 17,000 gallons per minute (gpm)
or 37^5 cubic feet per second (cfs) ; with a 28-inch pipeline the
volume is 23,000 gpm or 51 cfs. The pipeline can reach several
thousand feet from the dredge and can be extended for greater dis-
tances by using booster pumps to overcome friction head losses.
The dredge is held in position during dredging by anchors, swing
lines, and spuds. Spuds are long heavy timbers that are hung from
masts near each corner of the stern of the dredge. They pass through
openings in the vessel and can be raised or lowered independently.
When dropped alternately, they penetrate into the bottom sediments,
and serve as a pivot for the dredge.
Pipeline dredges are measured by the diameter of the suction
pipe. They range from small 4-inch sand pumpers to large 36-inch
dredges.
Table 1 lists the pipeline dredges operating in the Pacific
Northwest.
Mode of Operation
Pipeline dredges are generally towed to the dredging site. The
pipeline is assembled and survey markers are established to orient
the dredge. When in position, the spuds are dropped, and swing lines
and anchors are put out. The anchors are on each side of the dredge;
swing lines from these anchors can be tightened or loosened so as to
swing the bow or suction end of the dredge back and forth in a small
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TABLE 1
PIPELINE DREDGES OPERATING IN
THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST
Vessel Name
Beaver
Grasshopper
H.W. McCurdy
Had co #1
Harbor King
Hoquiam
Husky
Karen
Luckiamute
MacLeod
Malamute
Melbourne
Missouri
Molly B
Multnomah
Natoma
North Star
Olympia
Oregon
Polhemus
Portland
Q.T. No. 1
Quillayute
Riedel
Robert Gray
Sand Hog
Sandy
Sandra Lee
Seacrest #1
Skagit Bay
Texas
Unit No 1
Unit No 2
Washington
Wahkiakum
Owner
Olympic Dredging Co.
Hayden Island Inc.
Western Pacific Dredging Corp
Hadco Cr edging Co.
Lewis Nicholson Inc.
Quigg Brothers-McDonald
Manson-Osberg Co.
Carmac Dredging
Corps of Engineers
Hydromar Corp
Manson-Osberg Co.
Quigg Brothers-McDonald
General Construction Co.
Hayden Island Inc.
Corps of Engineers
Port of Astoria
Pope & Talbot
Hydromar Corp.
Port of Portland
Western-Pacific Dredging Corp.
Marine Dredge & Equipment
Quigg Brothers-McDonald
Port of Camas-Washougal
Western-Pacific Dredging Corp.
Port of Grays Harbor
Western-Pacific Dredging Corp.
Milwaukie Sand and Gravel
M.P. Materials Corp.
Evergreen Tug & Barge Co.
Marine Construction & Dredging
General Construction Co.
Marine Dredge & Equipment
Marine Dredge & Equipment
General Construction Co.
Corps of Engineers
Size (Suction Pipe)
8-inch
6-inch
24-inch
10-inch
10-inch
12-inch
12-inch
8-inch
14-inch
26-inch
16-inch
10- inch
24-inch
12-inch
24-inch
20- inch
10- inch
24-inch
30- inch
16-inch
16- inch
12-inch
10-inch
16-inch
22-inch
14-inch
10- inch
16-inch
4 -inch
16-inch
10- inch
12- inch
14-inch
24-inch
24-inch
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arc. During dredging, only one spud is in place at a time. This
permits the dredge to move forward as it swings back and forth by
"walking" from one spud to the other.
When ready, the pump and cutter-head are started and the ladder
lowered to the desired depth. Bottom sediments (about 15 percent)
and water are pumped through the pipeline to the disposal area, Dredg-
ing can be an almost continuous operation except for occasional changes
in anchor positions and additions of sections to the pipeline, however
it is customary practice to break the pipeline or move the dredge from
a navigation channel to permit passage of a vessel.
Advantages and Limitations
The chief advantage of a pipeline dredge is the large volume of
material that can be moved in a short period of time. Other advantages
include the ease of on-shore spoil disposal, the simultaneous dredging
and disposal operation, and the flexibility to perform a variety of
dredging operations.
The major limitation of pipeline dredges is that spoil areas must
be relatively close to the dredging operation. Another problem is the
inability to operate in open or rough water areas. The large volume
of materials moved in a pipeline dredge causes a high degree of wear
on the cutter-head, pump, and pipeline. Pipeline dredges are also
troubled by buried logs, large boulders, and man-discarded wastes,
such as cables that become entwined on the cutterhead and pump impeller.
The anchoring cables and pipeline can present a temporary obstruction
to navigation in confined channels.
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Hopper Dredges
General Description
A hopper dredge is a self-propelled, ocean-going vessel designed
for hydraulic dredging and transportation of the spoil to a dumping
area. Their primary function is to maintain harbor entrances and
channels where rough water would make other methods of dredging im-
practical.
On the Pacific Coast, these vessels range up to 350 feet in
length and have hopper capacities up to 3,000 cubic yards. Since
the Corps of Engineers is responsible for the maintenance of harbor
entrances and channels, all hopper dredges operating in the Pacific
Northwest are owned by the Corps of Engineers (Table 2).
TABLE 2
HOPPER DREDGES THAT OPERATE IN
THE PACIFIC NORTHWEST
Vessel Name
Biddle
Harding
Davis on
Pacific
Owner
Corps
Corps
Corps
Corps
of
of
of
of
Engineers
Engineers
Engineers
Engineers
Hopper
3,060
2,682
720
500
Capacity
cu.
cu.
cu.
cu.
yds .
yds .
yds .
yds .
Maximum
Dredging
62
62
45
45
feet
feet
feet
feet
Depth
Hopper dredges are equipped with one or two large centrifugal
pumps similar to those employed on pipeline dredges. The suction
pipes are hinged on each side of the ship witti the intake, or suction,
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end towards the stern. They are lowered and raised by hoisting
cables .
The suction pipes are equipped with a broad scraper, or shoe,
that directs or feeds the bottom materials into the pipes as they
are dragged along the bottom. Hopper dredges are not equipped with
revolving cutter heads.
Mode of Operation
The dredge moves onto the dredging course, starts the pumps
and lowers the suction pipes to the bottom, and continues moving
along the course. The shoe on the bottom of the suction pipe
scrapes a thin layer of bottom sediments that are drawn up and dis-
charged into the hopper (Figure 3). The sediment tends to settle out
in the hopper. The liquid overflow from the hoppers is discharged
into the water (Figure 4). When the hoppers are full, the dredge
moves to the disposal site. Large valves in the bottom of the
hoppers are opened and the material is flushed out the bottom of the
ship. Many trips over the same course are often required to attain
the desired depth and width of a channel.
Advantages and Limitations
The chief advantage of a hopper dredge is its ability to operate
in rough or open waters. It operates without anchors and causes
little obstruction to navigation.
Its chief limitation is that it cannot operate continuously
as a dredge because much of its time is spent moving between the
dredging site and the disposal area.
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FIGURE 3 Filling of a hopper on the Corps of
Engineers' dredge, "Harding."
FIGURE 4 Foam and turbid water being discharged
during hopper-filling operations.
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Use in Pacific Northwest
The Corps of Engineers' hopper dredges have operated in Oregon
in the Coquille, Umpqua, and Siuslaw Rivers; Coos Bay and Yaquina
Bay; and the Columbia and Lower Willamette Rivers. In Washington
they have operated in Grays Harbor and Willapa Harbor. The larger
dredges are generally used at the mouth of the Columbia and Rogue
Rivers and on the bars at Tillamook, Coos Bay.
Bucket Dredges
General Description
A bucket dredge is a float-mounted hoist that utilizes a
bucket or grapple to remove the bottom materials. The essential
components include a barge or float, hoisting machinery, a swinging
boom, a bucket, and an anchoring system. Some dredges are also
equipped with winches to shift barges to facilitate material disposal.
Buckets are of two general types, the clamshell and the orange
peel. The clamshell bucket consists of two similar halves that are
hinged at the top, similar to its namesake. The bucket can be
opened or closed at any time by the dredge operator. The orange-
peel bucket is similar to the clamshell, but generally has four
sections that open and close. Buckets are designed for hard- or
soft-digging materials. Hard-digging buckets are heavier and have a
more powerful closing mechanism than soft-digging buckets. This
added weight generally necessitates a reduction in bucket capacity.
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Since bucket dredges are neither self-contained like the hopper
dredges nor equipped with disposal pipelines like the pipeline
dredges, they are dependent upon auxiliary disposal equipment. This
generally consists of barges and a supporting tug to move the barges
to the disposal area.
Mode of Operation
The dredge and its support barges are towed to the dredge site
and anchored in position. Positioning equipment may include spuds,
similar to pipeline dredges, and wires, anchorst and winches to shift
the dredge along the cut. Materials are brought to the surface in
the bucket and dumped onto a disposal barge, or scow. When full, the
barge is pulled to a disposal site. Usually two or more disposal
barges are used so that the dredge can operate almost continuously.
Advantages and Limitations
One of the advantages of bucket dredges is their ability to
operate in small or confined areas. This makes them useful in main-
taining slips in harbor areas. These dredges are not limited to
shallow dredging depths and are useful in deep water excavation.
Their chief limitation is that they are relatively slow. They also
require separate disposal equipment.
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Use in Pacific Northwest
Bucket dredges are commonly used in harbor maintenance in the
docking areas. In recent years they have had widespread use in the
construction of small boat basins (Figures 2 and 6). They are
also used in Puget Sound for deepwater excavations for pipelines and
cables.
Other Dredge Types
Dipper dredges, similar in operation to power shovels, use a
bucket and dipper arm. In general design they resemble a bucket
dredge. Their chief advantage is their ability to lift or remove
large boulders that cannot be handled by other types of dredges and
their ability to excavate harder or more compact material.
Another type of dredge that was used extensively in placer mining
prior to World War II is the ladder dredge. This dredge uses a ladder
that extends from the barge down to the bottom. An endless chain
carries a series of buckets down where they are filled by scraping
along the bottom as they revolve around a large sheave at the lower
end of the ladder. The dredged materials are usually discharged to a
barge or back to the dredge pond by means of conveyor belts. Neither
the dipper nor ladder dredges are known to be operating currently in
the Pacific Northwest.
Barges
Barges used with bucket dredges in the Pacific Northwest are of
two general types. These are the bottom-dump and the deck types.
The bottom-dump barge is a hopper barge that is towed from the
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FIGURE 5 Bucket dredges employed in the construction
of a yacht basin near Seattle. South
entrance is in foreground.
FIGURE 6 North entrance of yacht basin shown in
Figure 5. Note most of the turbidity
remains inside diked area.
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dredging site to the disposal area. Gates or doors in the bottom
of the barge are opened and the materials drop out the bottom. The
emptying of a bottom-dump barge takes only a few minutes.
Deck type barges have flat decks on which the dredged materials
are piled. After they are towed to the disposal area, the materials
are pushed over the side with a small bulldozer, or washed overboard
with a high pressure water jet. The unloading of a deck type barge
takes considerable time when compared to bottom-dump barges.
In other areas of the country there are barges used which have
a "pump-ashore" capability. They are used to transport spoil when
it is disposed on land at a site beyond the range of a pipeline
dredge. At the spoil site the barges are connected to a pipeline on
shore, and the spoil is pumped into a suitable land disposal site.
At the present no equipment of this type is available in the Pacific
Northwest.
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SPOIL DISPOSAL PRACTICES
Disposal in Water
Pipeline dredges may discharge spoil on either land or in water.
In water disposal, the pipeline generally extends from the dredge to
the disposal area. The spoil can be discharged above the water, where
it is shot out the end of the pipe, or it can be discharged below the
surface by using an elbow attached to the end of the pipe. Some
dredging operations are for the purpose of building islands or land
areas, and the material is discharged at a particular site until the
spoil pile extends above the water surface. Since disposal is
contemporaneous with dredging, disposal may extend almost continuously
over periods of days, and sometimes weeks, at a particular site.
The greatest visible water quality effect from pipeline dredges
occurs at the discharge end of the operation (Figures 7 and 8). A
plume of turbid water usually radiates from the end of the pipe. On
some river dredging projects, the plume of turbid water extends many
miles downstream. There is little or no apparent effect at the
dredging end of the operation because most of the material loosened
by the cutter-head is sucked into the dredge.
In hopper dredges, the spoil is dropped out the bottom of the
dredge in a disposal area. Several thousand yards of material may
be dumped in a few minutes. The bottom area covered with spoil de-
pends upon the type of material, the speed of the hopper dredge, and
the current and depth of the water in the disposal area. Where
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FIGURE 7 Maintenance dredging in the Willamette
River. Note turbidity plume extending
downstream from the shore-end of the
pipeline.
FIGURE 8 Maintenance dredging in the Willamette
River.
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27
observed, the emptying of hopper dredges caused little visible effect
at the surface.
During dredging, the overflow from the hoppers is discharged
from the vessel. This waste water is generally very turbid and
results in a plume of turbid water trailing behind the dredge.
The emptying of bottom-dump barges is very similar to the emp-
tying of hopper dredges. The barges are generally stopped or are
moving very slowly during disposal, and the spoil is dumped above
a very small bottom area. The dispersal of the material depends upon
the type of material and the currents and water depth in the disposal
area.
The emptying of deck type barges, by pushing the material over
the side, requires considerably more time than emptying bottom-dump
barges. During this time the barge drifts and material is dis-
charged over a larger area. The emptying of deck type barges with a
hydraulic jet also takes considerable time, and creates a large plume
of turbid water around the barge (Figures 9 and 10).
Disposal on Land
Except for the hopper dredge, most types of dredges can be used
in the land disposal of spoil. With bucket dredges, land disposal
is generally employed when the dredging site is immediately adjacent
to land, as in canals, small boat basins, or boat slips. Land dis-
posal from offshore areas is generally accomplished with a pipeline
dredge.
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FIGURE 9 Barge being emptied in Puget Sound.
FIGURE 10 Close-up showing hydraulic jet from tug
being used to wash material overboard.
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Land disposal may be used for building beaches, land filling in
low areas, filling for highway, airport and other types of construc-
tion, and as a source of construction material. In recent years
land-disposal has been utilized for water quality control.
In land disposal from a pipeline dredge, the spoil is generally
discharged into a diked area. The initial inflow receives some re-
tention before the waste water overflows or is discharged into the
receiving water. As the diked area becomes filled with material, the
retention time in the diked area becomes less and the suspended
material in the waste water overflow becomes greater. The overflow
from land-disposal sites creates plumes of turbid water in the receiv-
ing river, lake or estuary. These plumes have been observed
extending several miles from the discharge site. The discharge of
liquid waste from land disposal operations may extend over a period
of days, sometimes weeks, depending upon the size of the project and
equipment employed.
Where observed, the dikes around disposal areas were constructed
with materials excavated from inside the enclosure (Figure 11). To
prevent erosion of the dike from overflow, a large diameter pipe
extends through the dike and serves as a spillway (Figure 12). The
spillway pipe may extend from the dike all the way to the receiving
water. In some land disposal operations the spillway pipe is located
on the same side of the pond as the spoil discharge pipe. This re-
sults in a shortcircuiting of the waste water from the discharge pipe
to the spillway with little retention time in the diked area.
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FIGURE 11 Spoil from a pipeline dredge being
discharged to a settling pond at
Terminal 4, Portland, Oregon.
FIGURE 12 Overflow pipes from the settling pond.
Return water is still very turbid.
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The dredge spoil generally builds an alluvial fan that slopes
away from the end of the discharge pipe. If the spoil is chiefly
sand, compaction is very rapid and bulldozers can traverse the fill
a few minutes after deposition. If the material is predominantly
silt or clay, a long time may be required for dewatering and com-
paction. The utility of land areas filled with fine-grained or
highly organic dredge spoil depends upon the compacting character-
istics of the fill. Some dredge fills of highly organic materials
are essentially unusable for long periods of time.
Double-Handling of Spoil
The methods of spoil dispersal previously discussed involve a
single handling of the material. In many instances, this is not
possible because of equipment limitations or the lack of spoil sites
close to the dredging operation. In these situations, land disposal
requires double-handling of the material. For a pipeline dredging
operation, double-handling may involve initial dredging followed by
water disposal into a pre-dredged sump. The dredge is then moved
and the material is redredged and pumped onto a shore disposal site.
In a barge disposal operation, the scows may be dumped in shallow
water close to shore. A dragline or clamshell on shore, or another
barge is used to re-excavate the material and place it on land.
There are many limitations associated with double-handling. It
is considerably more expensive and time consuming than single-handling.
More important, the potential for adversely affecting water quality
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32
is much greater. All double-handling techniques involve temporary
deposition of the spoil in the water after initial dredging. The
mixing received during the dredging, followed by this water disposal,
permits silts, sulfides, dissolved and particulate organic matter,
etc. to wash out of the spoil into the receiving water. This may
result in high sulfide levels, turbidity, and depressed dissolved
oxygen levels.
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REVIEW OF LITERATURE ON ENVIRONMENTAL PROBLEMS
ASSOCIATED WITH DREDGING
Types of Problems
There are many types of real or potential environmental problems
which may be associated with dredging. The turbidity and suspended
solids may reduce light penetration and in severe cases produce
physiological damage in fish and other organisms.. In sediments
containing significant quantities of organics, agitation or resuspen-
sion may reduce oxygen levels due to the high initial oxygen demand.
In addition, the exposure of unoxidized sludges adds to the oxygen
demands placed on the waters from other sources. Sulfides and
certain other components from industrial deposits may produce con-
ditions toxic to biological life. Water disposal of spoil can create
severe biological problems by smothering the benthic community and
reducing the available habitat by filling.
There is much in the literature on the problems associated with
turbidity, toxicity, low oxygen levels, etc. Very few studies,
however, specifically relate these problems to dredging. The results
of those studies that do relate to dredging will be discussed below.
The results of the many studies of spoil disposal methods and water
quality effects conducted in the Great Lakes area by the Water
Quality Office, EPA, (formerly the Federal Water Quality Adminis-
tration) and the Corps of Engineers will also be discussed.
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34
Results of Individual Studies
Several studies have been conducted in Chesapeake Bay on
dredging effects. Biological investigations were conducted on
a dredging and spoil disposal operation near the upper end of the
Bay.(l) The project involved disposal of over one million cubic yards
of spoil, predominantly silt and clay, in water depths of 3 to 6
meters. The material was excavated with a pipeline dredge. The
effects of spoil disposal operations on phytoplankton, zooplankton,
fish eggs and larvae, benthos, and fishes were investigated. No
acute effects were noted for organisms in any of the categories,
except the benthos. Significant numbers of bottom animals were
smothered over a fairly large area.
Another study associated with the same project investigated the
distribution of the spoil within and around the disposal site.(2)
Bottom profiles showed that, although the spoil was always discharged
within the prescribed bounds of the spoil area, the material spread
over an area five times larger than the spoil area. The maximum
side slope on the spoil pile was 1:100 and the average was 1500:1.
Turbidity was increased above background levels over an area of two
square miles.
A third study in Chesapeake Bay examined the effects of deposit-
ins 1.3 million cubic yards of sand and silt.(3) Data showed the
spoil had no significant adverse effect beyond the areas of the
bottom actually covered with sediment. In both the dredging and the
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35
spoil disposal areas a rapid resettlement of biota occurred.
The distribution of sediment around a spoil area was also
examined in Galveston Bay.(4) In this area the accepted spoil dis-
posal technique is to build banks or spoil islands by deposition in
shallow waters. In the particular project studied, 9 to 10 inches
of sediment were deposited up to 0.5 miles from the discharge.
Accumulations at a distance of 1.0 mile were negligible. Deposition
was measured by spreading a layer of red gravel at the sampling
stations and measuring the accumulation of material on top of this
gravel by periodic core samples.
The effect of resuspension of sediments on dissolved oxygen was
investigated in Arthur Kill, New Jersey.(5) Arthur Kill is a long,
narrow tidal channel which separates Staten Island from mainland New
Jersey. The area is heavily industrialized and numerous domestic
and industrial wastes are discharged into the Kill. The bottom
material generally consists of a black, soft, oily silt which smells
of chemicals, oils, and hydrogen sulfide. Periodically, dredging
operations are conducted to maintain the navigation channel. The
material is excavated with a clam shell bucket and loaded into a
hopper barge for ocean disposal. During two routine surveillance
surveys when dredging was in progress, discolored water and depressed
oxygen levels were observed. These reduced oxygen levels, which were
attributed directly to resuspended bottom deposits, varied from
16 to 83 percent below the 6 to 8 milligrams per liter (mg/1) normally
encountered during periods of dredging.
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36
Extensive studies have been conducted in the vicinity of the
ocean dumping ground off New York.(6) Separate bottom areas have
been designated as dumping sites for municipal sewage sludges and
industrial wastes, and for the dredge spoils. These dumping grounds
have been used for many years. Data showed dissolved oxygen (DO)
depressions in the bottom water above the spoil deposits of 2 to 3
mg/1 below bottom DO values in uncontaminated areas. The organic
content of the sediments was high, with values to 11.5 percent on a
dry weight basis. A large area over and around the dredge spoil area
was essentially devoid of benthic organisms. This absence of
macrofauna is attributed to three factors: (1) toxic effects or
smothering of adults and juveniles; (2) the creation of a physical
environment which adversely affects the normal development of eggs
and larvae; and (3) avoidance reactions by adults of areas con-
taminated with spoil. Significant levels of heavy metals and
pesticides were found, and the sediments have a distinctive petro-
chemical odor.
A mass mortality of stickleback and shiner appears to have been
caused by the dredging of cedar bark deposits in a western Canada
estuary.(7) There was an obvious odor of hydrogen sulfide during
dredging and concentrations in the water were greatly in excess of
the lethal levels for fish. Significant reductions in dissolved
oxygen were also measured around the dredge.
Similar effects on the benthic biota were observed at a dumping
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37
ground in Bellingham Bay, Washington.(8) An area in central Belling-
ham Bay had been used for years as a dumping ground for organic
sludges and debris removed from the inner navigation channel and a
log ponding area. Bottom samples showed an area approximately one
mile in diameter had volatile solids concentrations over 10 percent.
Both the total number of organisms and the species diversity were
severely reduced in this area.
Recent laboratory investigations have shown the detrimental
effects on salmon of polluted sediments from the inner portion of
Bellingham Bay.(9) Bioassays were used to determine the effects of
various concentrations of sediments on sockeye smolt. Concentrations
of inner harbor sediments (27 percent volatile solids) of 10 and 1
percent by volume caused 100 percent mortalities in less than 10
minutes. At the 0.1 percent concentration the fish were initially
distressed, but recovered and were alive at the end of the 120-hour
test. The studies indicated that hydrogen sulfide toxicity, rather
than depressed oxygen levels, was the primary cause of death.
As part of this work, the reduction of dissolved oxygen and the
amount of hydrogen sulfide (I^S) released were determined for various
concentrations of sediment. In a stirred mixture containing 2 percent
by volume of inner harbor sediment, the dissolved oxygen was reduced
from 9 to 5 mg/1 in 30 minutes and was 2.5 to 3.0 mg/1 after 90
minutes. The initial levels of l^S for the same conditions were 4.0
to 4.5 mg/1. H2S concentrations steadily decreased to zero after
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38
60 minutes. Outer harbor sediments, with volatile solids of 5 per-
cent, showed no measurable release of H2S. There was, however, a
significant reduction in dissolved oxygen. Stirred concentrations of
1 percent produced a drop in dissolved oxygen of 2 mg/1 after 30
minutes, while concentrations of 5 percent reduced oxygen levels by
more than 8 mg/1 in 30 minutes.
The investigators concluded:
The amount of mixing and dispersion which would occur
during discharge of sediment from a barge is unknown;
however, zones of high hydrogen sulfide, low dissolved
oxygen and excessive turbidity may occur. Therefore,
elimination of potential hazards to fish through adequate
dilution during dumping would be necessary. Bioassay
results indicated the concentration of inner harbor sedi-
ment should not exceed 0.1 percent. This concentration
corresponds to the visible threshold of distress for salmon,
exerts an insignificant oxygen demand, and creates a turbid
condition which would clarify within approximately one
hour. Thus, if requirements for eliminating stress and
toxicity caused by hydrogen sulfide could be satisfied
by dispersal and dilution, turbidity and oxygen demand
would not be significant factors.(9)
Great Lakes Studies
Calumet River Pilot Project
The Calumet River Pilot Project involved land disposal of
material from the Calumet River in a 91-acre site.(10) Material was
excavated by clam-shell and transported by scows to a temporary
disposal site. This temporary spoil area was a basin or "pocket"
surrounded by a submerged dike. When sufficient material had
accumulated, a hydraulic dredge was used to excavate the basin and
pump the spoil to the permanent disposal site.
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39
The following conclusions were based on the FWQA sampling
program:
1. The operation of the clamshell produced no significant
changes in water quality. The only parameter showing a significant
increase was turbidity, which rose from 20 Jackson Turbidity Units
(JTU) above the dredge to 39 JTU below.
2. The submerged dike in the temporary spoil area was effective
in minimizing water quality degradation. Parameter values immediately
outside the dike showed no significant increase above background.
3. The detention time in the final settling basin was insuffi-
cient to effectively reduce the turbidity and suspended solids to a
degree which would have been possible with improved control of the
drainage.
4. The final settling basin was not effective in improving the
chemical quality of the drainage from the spoil.
Inland Steel Landfill Lagoon
In this project material was removed from the highly polluted
Indiana Harbor Canal and disposed in an 80-acre lagoon along the
shore of Lake Michigan.(11) The lagoon was 20 feet deep and was
surrounded by an impervious dike. A gap 12 to 14 feet deep and 150
feet wide was provided for the entrance of loaded barges. The Water
Quality Office monitored to determine the effectiveness of the sill
in retaining contaminants within the lagoon.
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40
Bottom samples taken outside the lagoon showed that little of
the heavy organic material escaped. Water quality was noticeably
degraded in the gap and a quarter mile from the entrance. The pri-
mary effects were increases in suspended solidst oil and grease,
ammonia nitrogen, organic nitrogen, and total phosphorus.
During the project the Corps of Engineers attempted to use an
air curtain across the gap to contain surface films and polluted
materials. The results were inconclusive because the supply of
compressed air was inadequate.
Green Bay Pilot Study
In this study 632,000 cubic yards of dredge spoil were used to
fill a 380-acre diked basin and to construct a dike enclosing a
230-acre spoil area in the shallow waters of Green Bay Harbor.(12)
The project used a temporary spoil site in the bay consisting of a
200 foot by 750 foot sump excavated to a depth of 25 feet below
natural bay bottom. Material dredged from the Fox River channel by
clamshell was transported by scow to this temporary site. It was
then moved by hydraulic dredge to the 380-acre basin. Some channel
areas were excavated directly by hydraulic dredge with spoil disposal
in the large diked area.
The data collected show that only turbidity and suspended solids
were effectively controlled by the 380-acre diked area. Turbidity
in the outfall was usually less than 25 JTU. Chemical constituents
such as phosphorus, ammonia and organic nitrogen, and chemical oxygen
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41
demand increased through the pond. In the temporary sump significant
increases above background were noted for conductivity, alkalinity,
turbidity, suspended solids, total phosphorus and total nitrogen.
Turbidity levels in the channel near the sump went as high as 300 JTU
compared to background levels of about 15 JTU.
Cleveland Harbor Dredging Effects Study, Interim Report
This study involves water and bottom sampling in the Cuyhoga
River, the Cleveland Inner Harbor, and the dredge dump area located
in Lake Erie outside the breakwater.(13) The dump area is well de-
fined by increases in the chemical constituents of bottom sediments.
(Volatile solids, chemical oxygen demand, oil, and grease showed de-
finite peaks in the dumping areas with levels similar to those found
in the river prior to dredging.) In addition, general background
levels in areas surrounding the dumping ground were relatively high.
The general background level outside the breakwater for oil and grease
was 4 milligrams per kilogram (mg/kg), dry weight. Farther out, in
the central areas of the lake, concentrations were less than 1 mg/kg,
Sampling in the dredging area indicated short-term adverse
effects on water quality. Dissolved oxygen levels in the vicinity
of hopper dredging were lowered as much as 25 percent. In the scow
dumping area, depressions up to 35 percent in the oxygen level were
measured. Suspended solids also increased substantially. Values for
other water quality parameters were not significantly more than the
already high background levels in the study area.
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42
Cleveland Diked Dredging Disposal Area Investigation
The study evaluated two methods of spoil disposal into a com-
pletely diked basin in Cleveland harbor.(14) The dike, which was
constructed from 286,000 tons of limestone and dolomite, was designed
to act as a filter. The storage volume inside the dikes was approxi-
mately 300,000 cubic yards. A slip was constructed adjacent to the
enclosure for use both as an unloading point and as an intermediate
storage site for spoil.
The first method of spoil disposal tested was the direct removal
of material from scows and transfer into the basin by simultaneous
jetting and pumping. Forty-one scow loads totaling 45,500 cubic yards
were transferred in this manner. The average pumping time per scow
was slightly over two hours. A 5:1 ratio of water to sediment was
necessary to permit pumping. In the second method of disposal the
spoil was dumped into the adjacent slip by bottom dump scows. A
hydraulic dredge completed the transfer into the basin. The volume
of material handled in this manner was the same as that for the first
method.
Water quality sampling showed no significant effect on the lake
from seepage through the dike. The data indicated over 95 percent
retention of all constituents measured. In the case of disposal
method two, adverse effects were found in the vicinity of the slip.
These changes were attributed to discharge from the slip, rather than
seepage through the dike. Turbidity plumes up to 1400 feet long
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43
were observed. These were thought to be caused by prop wash from the
tugboats. Depressed oxygen levels were also measured 300 to 400 feet
from the slip after spoil dumping. Chemical constituents in the
bottom sediments increased near the mouth of the slip.
A portable water treatment plant was evaluated as a means of
further treating the supernatant from the disposal area. Treatment
procedures tested included: (1) coagulation, filtration, and disin-
fection; (2) coagulation only; (3) coagulation and filtration; and
(4) filtration only. The combination of coagulation, filtration, and
disinfection was most effective in reducing turbidity, chemical
oxygen demand, and nutrients.
Pilot Study of Rouge River Dredging
The purpose of this study was to determine the degree and extent
of pollution caused by dredging in the Rouge River in Detroit and
by spoil disposal on Grassy Island in the Detroit River.(15) A hopper
dredge was used and the spoil was pumped ashore into the holding
basin. Sediments in the project area were grossly polluted with
volatile solids varying from 11 to 35 percent (dry weight basis).
Grease and oil concentrations were in the range of 10 to 40 grams
per kilogram (g/kg) .
The dredging caused significant increases in suspended solids,
volatile suspended solids, chemical and biochemical oxygen demand,
total phosphorus, and iron in the immediate area of the dredge.
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44
Overflow from the hopper bins caused the most severe pollution.
After passage of the dredge the dissolved oxygen levels decreased
with time as long as the stirred-up material remained suspended. In
the Detroit River near the spoil area, no significant changes in
water quality could be attributed to the spoil disposal.
Great Sodus Bay Dredging Study
This project involved hopper dredging in a navigation channel in
Great Sodus Bay, with spoil disposal in Lake Ontario.(16) The mate-
rial excavated was lightly polluted with volatile solids from 0.5 to
3.0 percent. Sampling was conducted in both the dredging and spoil
disposal areas. The results indicate no significant change in the
benthic biology or the water quality characteristics in the project
area. One conclusion was that the load on a spoil area cannot
necessarily be determined by sampling in the excavated area. During
the hopper dredging work in Great Sodus Bay, much of the turbidity-
producing fraction and the dissolved and volatile material was lost
through the overflow. It was then dispersed by lake currents, or
deposited in areas adjacent to the channel, and did not reach the
spoil area.
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SEDIMENT CHARACTERISTICS IN NORTHWEST HARBORS
Need for Sediment Characterization
Little information is available on the physical and chemical
characteristics of materials dredged in the Pacific Northwest. When
a dredging project is proposed, the Federal and State resources
agencies review the proposal for possible adverse effects on the
environment. Basic to such a review is accurate data on the nature
of the material involved in the work. These data are lacking, and
evaluations of proposed projects are frequently based on someone's
guess as to whether the material is "good" or "bad". There is an
immediate need for standard chemical and physical data to assist in
these reviews.
To fully utilize any data on bottom materials which may be ob-
tained, a framework of data must be established which shows the
characteristics of polluted and unpolluted sediments. In the sections
that follow the results of a bottom sampling program designed to
establish such a framework are discussed. The types of chemical and
physical analyses needed to characterize the pollution potential of
the material are emphasized.
Sampling and Analyses
Selection of Sampling Locations
Sixty-five bottom samples were collected .from twelve different
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46
river and harbor areas. Appendix B contains maps showing the detailed
location of the points. The samples were taken either in conjunction
with active dredging projects or in areas commonly dredged. Areas
were selected to provide a diversity of bottom types. Most samples
were taken in salt water areas. Table 3 lists the areas sampled and
the number of samples collected.
TABLE 3
BOTTOM SAMPLING AREAS AND NUMBER OF SAMPLES
Area Number of Samples
Bellingham, Wash. 19
Anacortes, Wash. 2
Everett, Wash. 4
Seattle, Wash 8
Tacoma Harbor, Wash. 6
Chambers Creek Estuary, Wash. 3
Olympia, Wash. 3
Hoquiam-Aberdeen, Wash. 3
Astoria, Oregon 3
Portland, Oregon 6
Yaquina Bay, Oregon ' 3
Coos Bay, Oregon 5
65"
Sampling Techniques
Ideally, the material collected in potential dredging areas
should be representative of the full depth of the proposed excavation.
Some type of powered coring device is the best method for obtaining
this representative sample. Weighted core samplers will work, but the
length of core obtained with equipment suitable for use from a small
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47
boat is usually less than two feet. Another problem associated with
the smaller coring devices is the small volume of sample obtained.
Numerous cores are necessary to provide enough sample for chemical
and physical analyses.
The bottom sampler used in this study was a van Veen dredge^-'.
This grab-type sampler takes material from the top 4 to 6 inches of
the bottom. This is an obvious disadvantage when the excavation may
be many feet deep. Compared to the coring devices available, however,
it is simple to use and collects a much larger sample. Since the
primary purpose of the sediment sampling program in this study was to
obtain a variety of bottom materials, and not to characterize any one
area in great detail, the dredge sampler was deemed satisfactory. In
the study of a specific area to develop information relative to a
proposed dredging project, a minimum approach would require using the
dredge sampler to take samples for chemical analyses and a pipe or
long tube corer to obtain at least some qualitative information on
the deeper deposits.
Types of Analyses
The following chemical analyses were conducted on all the bottom
samples: total volatile solids, chemical oxygen demand (COD), kjeldahl
nitrogen, total phosphorus, and grease and oil. In addition, initial
oxygen demand (IDOD), oxidation-reduction potential, and sulfides were
2J Use of product name is for identification only and does not
constitute endorsement by the Environmental Protection Agency.
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48
determined for the majority of the samples. The analyses for initial
oxygen demand and total sulfides were conducted using the methods
specified in the 12th Edition of Standard Methods.(17) All the other
analyses mentioned were run according to methods specified by the
Environmental Protection Agency.(18)
Forty-nine of the bottom samples were characterized physically
by complete grain size analyses. Turbidity settling tests were con-
ducted on 33 of the samples. To conduct these tests, a solution of
tap water containing 15 percent by volume of sediment was thoroughly
blended in a mechanical mixer and then allowed to settle in a glass
cylinder. At various time intervals a small sample was withdrawn and
analyzed for turbidity using a Hach Model Turbidimeter.
A detailed presentation of all the data for the sediment samples
is too voluminous for inclusion in the body of the report. This data
appears in Appendix B. Included in this appendix are maps showing
the sampling location and a tabulation of the analytical results for
each sample. These data are summarized in the following section.
Summary of Analytical Data
Chemical Data
The chemical data vary widely, both among samples from different
geographical areas and among samples from the same general area. The
mean and range for the primary chemical analyses are shown in Table 4,
These averages give some insight into the characteristics of a
"typical" bottom material from Northwest harbor areas. To gain some
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49
feeling for the significance of these characteristics, samples having
the lowest and highest volatile solids content were compared. For
this comparison, samples with a volatile solids content of five per-
cent or less were assumed to be relatively unpolluted. Eleven samples
fell within this range. To represent highly polluted conditions, 21
samples with volatile solids content of 10 percent or greater were
chosen. The mean and range of the chemical analyses on these two
groups of samples are shown in Table 5-
TABLE 4
MEAN AND RANGE OF SELECTED CHEMICAL PARAMETERS
DETERMINED FOR BOTTOM SEDIMENTS
Parameter
Total volatile solids
Chemical oxygen demand
Kjehldal nitrogen
Total phosphorus
Grease and oil
Initial oxygen demand
Sulfides-'
Oxid at ion- re duct ion potential
a/ Values are conservative due
No. of
Units Analyses Mean
%
g/kg
g/kg
g/kg
g/kg
g/kg
g/kg
MV
63
59
55
62
43
45
37
52
to preservation
10.9
101
1.75
0.96
3.62
1.47
1.05
-.07
method
Range
0.7-49.3
3-395
0.01-6.80
0.24-2.55
0.10-32.1
0.08-5.16
.01-3.77
-0.22 to +0.41
used.
The data show significant differences between the two groups for
all the parameters listed. Comparing the data from a proposed
dredging site with these extremes and with the average sediment
characteristics in Table 4 provides a valuable indication of the
degree of contamination in the sediments.
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TABLE 5
CHEMICAL COMPARISON OF HIGHLY POLLUTED AND RELATIVELY UNPOLLUTED BOTTOM SAMPLES
Lightly Polluted Heavily Polluted
Parameter
Total volatile solids
Chemical oxygen demand
Kjehldal nitrogen
Total phosphorus
Grease and oil
Initial oxygen demand
Oxygen uptake
Sulfides- -'
Oxidation-reduction potential
Units
%
g/kg
g/kg
g/kg
g/kg
g/kg
g/kg
g/kg
MV
Mean
2.9
21
0.55
0.58
0.56
0.50
0.14
+0.05
Range
0.7-5.0
3-48
0.01-1.31
0.24-0.95
0.11-1.31
0.08-1.24
0.03-0.51
(-0.18) -(+0.41)
Mean
19.6
177
2.64
1.06
7.15
2.07
1.70
-.13
Range
10.2-49.3
39-395
0.58-6.80
0.59-2.55
1.38-32.1
0.28-4.65
0.10-3.77
+.11 to -.22
a/ Values are conservative due to preservation method used.
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51
Physical Data
As with the chemical data, the results of the grain size
analyses showed materials ranging from pure sand to almost completely
silt and clay. The average sample had a distribution of 43 percent
sand and 57 percent silt and clay (passing a 200-mesh sieve). A
frequency distribution of the silt and clay fraction is shown in
Table 6, further indicating the variability encountered. The data
showed no correlation between levels of organics and the percent silt
and clay.
TABLE 6
FREQUENCY DISTRIBUTION OF SILT-CLAY FRACTION
Percent Silt & Clay
No. of Samples
Percent of Samples
0-10
11-20
21-30
31-40
41-50
51-60
61-70
71-80
81-90
91-100
6
1
2
2
4
4
4
7
8
3
14.5
2.5
4.9
4.9
9.8
9.8
9.8
17.0
19.5
7.3
Turbidity settling tests were conducted on several samples using
both fresh and salt water. The average turbidity of the samples tested
after four hours settling in fresh water was 1240 JTU. After the
same period in ocean water the average turbidity was 74 JTU, a re-
duction of 94 percent over the fresh water value. Figure 13 shows
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Initial
10 Minutes
, _^=T
j
I
20 Minutes
40 Minutes
6 hours
ill i
24 hours
FIGURE 13 Settling test of Portland Harbor sediments in (left to ri^ht)
freshwater, one-third saltwater, one-half saltwater, two-thirds
saltwater, and saltwater.
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the effect of the salt water in reducing the turbidity. These tests
showed that settlement in salt water is essentially complete after
3-4 hours. Additional tests indicated that as little as 10 percent
salt water is effective in greatly increasing the settling rate.
In conducting these and other settling tests, an attempt was
made to correlate initial turbidities with the grain-size distri-
bution. In general the finer materials had higher initial
turbidities, but the variability was such that no accurate
predictions on turbidity levels are possible.
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FIELD STUDIES OF NORTHWEST DREDGING PROJECTS
General Approach
The object of these studies was to make field observations of
equipment and operating practices for various types of dredging
projects. Sampling was conducted in conjunction with these obser-
vations, to measure changes in physical and chemical characteristics
of the bottom materials and water in the project area. These surveys
were usually short. Field efforts were delayed in many cases by
frequent dredging stoppages due to equipment breakdowns, blocked
lines, etc.
Six dredging projects were sampled. Visual observations, alone,
were made at several locations. The results of these surveys and
observation trips are discussed below.
Discussion of Specific Studies
Terminal 4, Portland Harbor
This project involved removal of approximately 98,000 cubic
yards of material from Pier 4, Terminal 4, with land disposal
in an adjacent area. The excavation involved about equal portions
of recent infill from the river and new excavation. The disposal
area was located on a bench about 20 feet above river level. Exca-
vated material was pumped into a 500-by-600-foot basin surrounded
by dikes 10 feet high (Figure 11). The outlet works and the dis-
charge from the dredge were located in adjacent corners of the basin.
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56
Overflow from the basin was discharged through two 36-inch culvert
pipes, which carried the overflow partially down the bank and onto a
sand bar approximately 150 feet from the edge of the river. From
this point, the discharge flowed directly through a shallow channel
in the sand bar and into the Willamette River. Figure 12 shows the
outlet from the basin.
A sample of bottom material from the dredged area was not
collected. Analyses of a sample from an adjacent slip, however, in-
dicated a physical composition of 62 percent silt and clay and a
volatile solids content of 7.2 percent.
The evaluation of the land disposal operation emphasized turbi-
dity levels and biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) in the basin discharge
and the possible influence on the river. Additional analyses were
run, however. The average influent and effluent characteristics of
the basin are shown in Table 7.
TABLE 7
AVERAGE CHARACTERISTICS OF BASIN INFLUENT AND EFFLUENT
AT TERMINAL 4
Item Influent, Effluent
Turbidity, JTU 1600
Centrifuged BOD, mg/1^ 3.6 4.8
Centrifuged COD, mg/1 17 32
Total phosphorus, mg/1 74 3.3
Ammonia nitrogen, mg/1 3.2 0-7
Kjehldal nitrogen, mg/1 45 7.5
a./ Sample was centrifuged and supernatant was analyzed.
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57
The discharge was also sampled at the point where it ran into
the river. Additional samples were taken in the river 100 yards up-
stream and downstream from the discharge. Turbidities in the
discharge averaged 1200 JTU. Values upstream and downstream averaged
22 JTU at the surface. The only obvious effect was a large amount of
very stable foam produced by the turbulence in the discharge. Some
of this foam persisted for several hours.
Several points of interest were noted concerning the construction
and operation of the disposal site. The dredge was capable of pumping
into the basin at a rate of about 18,000 gallons per minute, or 5300
cubic yards per hour. The volume of the basin, for a depth of nine
feet, was 100,000 cubic yards. The maximum theoretical detention time
is therefore 19 hours. In reality, the detention times were much
less. To prevent excessive pressures on the dikes, the water depths
above the bottom were maintained at three to six feet. This cut
the detention time to ten hours. The placement of the inlet and
outlet in adjacent corners of the basin caused short-circuiting and
further reduced detention time. Filling the basin lowered the deten-
tion time even more, until, near the end of the project, it approached
zero.
Turbidity Sampling, Portland Harbor
Two attempts were made to evaluate the effects of hydraulic
dredging on turbidity and dissolved oxygen in Portland Harbor. On
the first of these surveys the pipeline dredge Oregon was operating
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58
in mid-channel opposite Terminal 1. The cutterhead was at a depth of
50 to 60 feet. The current was very slow. Three sampling stations
were located across the channel, both upstream and downstream 400 feet
from the dredge. Turbidity profiles were determined for each of the
stations. The levels above and below the dredge showed no difference,
with turbidities falling in the range of 12 to 18 JTU. There were
no apparent visual effects.
The spoil from this project was pumped to the east side of the
river into an area being filled for future development. The water
ran across the fill for several hundred feet before draining into
the river. Samples were taken 100 feet downstream from this inflow
at points 25 and 175 feet from shore. Two samples were collected at'
each point: one near the surface and one near the bottom. The two
offshore samples and the surface sample from the inshore station had
background level turbidities of 12 to 16 JTU. The nearshore bottom
sample had a turbidity of 35 JTU, a two- to three-fold increase over
background. Obvious discoloration was apparent only in the immediate
vicinity of the inflow.
The second survey involved the pipeline dredge McCurdy, which
was excavating in the Willamette River opposite Terminal 4. The
sampling program was similar to the first survey, except there were
two rows of three sampling stations each, downstream from the dredge
in addition to the three stations upstream from the dredge. Samples
were analyzed for turbidity and dissolved oxygen. There was no
significant difference between values upstream and downstream from
the dredge.
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59
Depot Slough, Toledo, Oregon
Depot Slough is a narrow channel which winds through the indus-
trial area of Toledo before discharging into the Yaquina River. At
the time of the study there was very little inflow at the upper end
of the slough. This particular project involved maintenance dredging
in the lower end of the slough to a depth of ten feet with a pipeline
dredge (Figure 1). Spoil was pumped into a large diked basin. The
discharge from this basin flowed through a shallow marshy area, then
ran back into the slough near the upper end of the work area.
Two bottom samples were taken in the project area, one near the
mouth of the slough and one towards the upper end of the work area.
Both indicated high organic levels, with volatile solids content of
13.7 and 21.8 percent. The sample near the mouth was 89 percent silt
and clay; the upper sample was 56 percent silt and clay and contained
a large quantity of wood chips.
Prior to start of the work water samples were taken to determine
background water quality conditions. Turbidity levels were uniform at
6 JTU, and sulfides varied from 1.5 mg/1 near the mouth of the slough
to 3.4 mg/1 at the upper end of the project area. During active
dredging, samples were taken near the surface and the bottom of the
water column at five locations. These samples were analyzed for
turbidity, dissolved oxygen, and sulfides. Turbidity values were
slightly higher than during the background survey. Those at the
surface averaged 6 JTU and the depth samples averaged 11 JTU.
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60
Dissolved oxygen levels were between 7.3 and 8.5 mg/1. Sulfides were
less than 3.0 mg/1. There were no significant differences between
samples taken close to the dredge and those taken farther away.
The effluent from the five-acre holding pond contained noticeable
turbidity. At the point of discharge into the slough there was an
obvious increase in turbidity for 20 to 30 feet offshore and 100 feet
downstream. Turbidity levels in the effluent averaged 28 JTU.
Santiam River Dredging Project
This project involved maintenance dredging by the Corps of
Engineers at the junction of the Santiam and Willamette Rivers with
a pipeline dredge (Figure 8) . At the time of the study, the dredge
was operating in the Santiam River a few hundred feet upstream from
the junction with the Willamette. The dredge was excavating coarse
sand and gravel and depositing it for bank protection along the
south side of the river.
An aerial reconnaisance of the project site was made to determine
the extent of the turbidity effects and to locate possible sampling
sites. From the air it was possible to see a narrow thread of tur-
bidity extending downstream from the cutterhead. This was visible
until it became mixed with the more turbid water in the Willamette.
At the spoil pile, the turbid water hung in an eddy behind the pile
and trailed off in a narrow plume against the south bank.
Following the aerial survey the site was visited by boat, and
samples were collected for turbidity analyses. General background
turbidity in the Santiam River was 2 to 3 JTU. Samples taken 200 feet
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61
downstream from the dredge and in the visible turbidity thread still
indicated 3 JTU. Due to the fast current and turbulence, this line
of turbidity was very patchy, and it was extremely difficult to obtain
a representative sample. Maximum values in the plume were probably
in the range of 5 to 10 JTU. In the plume below the spoil pile, the
samples had turbidities of 15 to 18 JTU 100 feet downstream, decreas-
ing to 6 to 7 JTU 400 feet downstream. The plume was very narrow,
less than 40 feet wide in most places.
Chambers Creek Estuary
The Chambers Creek estuary is in Puget Sound a few miles south
of Tacoma. The estuary is very small and drains almost completely
during low tides. It is used extensively for log-rafting and receives
the wastes from the West Tacoma Newsprint mill. Bottom deposits in
the estuary are grossly polluted, having organic contents approaching
50 percent.
The dredging project in the estuary involved removal of 20,000
cubic yards of sand, silt, and organic sludges from the log-handling
area immediately in front of the mill. The dredging permit specified
removal by clamshell and bottom dump barge, with disposal in 480 feet
of water at a specified latitude and longitude.
It was originally planned to measure water quality both in the
dredging area and during the spoil disposal. Circumstances, however,
prevented completion of either of these objectives. Water quality in
the estuary was so variable, due to pollution and tidal effects, that
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62
significant effects of dredging could not be determined. Adequate
water quality sampling during spoil disposal was precluded by sampling
equipment malfunctions and the fact that all spoil disposal operations
were carried out at night.
Despite the difficulties, a very interesting observation was
made concerning the adequacy of the dredging permit system. When the
newsprint mill requested a permit for their annual dredging, the
State and Federal environmental agencies imposed numerous conditions
for approval. The type of equipment, the time of year, and the point
of disposal were all specified. These conditions were accepted by
the mill and the permit was issued.
During a visit to the project a. small clamshell dredge was
observed working in a corner of the estuary used as a log pond by a
small sawmill. This operation had no connection with the newsprint
mill. Scrap lumber, steel strands from log bundles, wood chips, saw-
dust, etc. were removed and piled on a flat-top barge. Late that
night the barge was towed 1000 to 2000 feet off the mouth of the estu-
ary and the material was pushed overboard by a small tractor. The
water at this point is approximately 100 feet deep. This was in di-
rect contrast to the deep water site specified in the permit for the
West Tacoma Newsprint Mill. A later check with the Corps of Engineers,
Seattle District, indicated no permit had been applied for in connec-
tion with this work, it is obvious that a proper monitoring program is
necessary, not only to assure compliance with permits, but also to
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63
apply enforcement procedures as a deterrent to those who would
attempt such potentially damaging operations without a permit.
Bellingham Bay Dredging Project
The 1969 maintenance dredging of the Whatcom Waterway at Belling-
ham, Washington provided an opportunity to monitor the marine disposal
of spoil from a pipeline dredge. The dredging area and the disposal
areas are shown on Figure 14.
Prior to dredging, a series of bottom samples were collected in
and around the disposal area. The location of the sampling stations
and the chemical analyses are in Appendix B. The bottom material was
principally silt and clay containing 7 to 10 percent volatile solids.
Water samples from near the water surface and near the bottom
were collected at six stations in and adjacent to the disposal area.
The end of the pipeline was equipped with an elbow and all spoil was
discharged beneath the water surface. The sampling results indicated
little or no change in the quality of the water near the surface. An
aerial inspection of the disposal operation also failed to show any
apparent effect from the dredging operation.
The analysis of the near-bottom water showed a marked increase in
water turbidity within a large area around the end of the pipeline. A
sample collected at Station 4, 1000 feet southwest of the discharge
point, showed the bottom to be overlain with more than 2 feet of a
thin slurry of spoil. The dissolved oxygen in this slurry was zero.
The discovery of this mud slurry at Station 4 resulted in the
collection of water quality samples at five additional stations. The
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64
locations of these stations, designated PI through. P5, are shown
on Figure 14. The data from the turbidity profiles taken at these
points are presented in Table 8. Samples from Station Pi, about 400
feet from the end of the pipeline, showed the bottom to be covered
with about 7 feet of slurry. At Station P2 there was about 4 feet
of slurry, and at Station P3, 1400 feet from the end of the pipeline,
there was over a foot of slurry.
The mud slurry outside the disposal area indicates that fine-
grained materials discharged from a pipeline dredge can build up
beneath the disposal site and move laterally as a submarine mudflow.
At this particular site, the slurry moved down a gentle bottom slope.
It undoubtedly smothered all the bottom organisms that it covered.
Detailed monitoring of the marine disposal of fine-grained
materials from a pipeline dredge would provide useful information as
to the rate of movement and the thickness and extent of man-created
submarine mudflows. It is possible that some of these mudflows could
travel long distances from the disposal site. If true, information
on the bottom gradients would be important in evaluating spoil dis-
posal areas for pipeline dredges.
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65
Dredge Area
End of Pipeline from Dredge
36' -'
Submarine
Hud Flow
Spoil
' Disposal
Area
./ \ i 48 L.
S../
P5
o
o
3
BELLINGHAM BAY
---60'-, \\
\ >
Scale "^J \
o 500 1000 1500 2000 ft\
Figure 14: Dredging Operation Monitored at
Bellingham Bay, Washington
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66
TABLE 8
TURBIDITY PROFILES - BELLINGHAM BAY
Station
Depth
(feet)
Turbidity
(JTU)
PI
P2
P3
P4
P5
1
6
12
18
24
30
36
40
43
1
6
12
18
24
30
36
42
45
46
24
30
36
42
46
47
24
30
36
42
44
45
24
30
36
42
48
49
5
5
4
4
4
68
Opaque Slurry
Opaque Slurry
Bottom
8
9
5
4
3
10
50
Opaque Slurry
Opaque Slurry
Bottom
4
6
12
3
Opaque Slurry
Bottom
6
4
30
29
75
Bottom
4
2
8
16
18
Bottom
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DISCUSSION
This report has covered a spectrum of techniques and problems
associated with dredging activities. In this section, the major con-
clusions and recommendations to be derived from this information will
be discussed under four separate headings: water quality problems,
dredging techniques, the permit system, and planning.
Water Quality Problems
There is not a great mass of information available which shows
that dredging activities generally create gross water quality degra-
dation, fish kills, etc. There is sufficient data from numerous
areas, however, to show the existence of, and the potential for,
significant water quality degradation and adverse effects on the
benthic biological community. In the Pacific Northwest, the release
of turbidity producing and toxic materials, and the depression of
dissolved oxygen levels are the primary water quality problems asso-
ciated with dredging. The studies on the Rouge River (15) and in
Arthur Kill (5) dramatically illustrate that the dredging of polluted
sediments can reduce dissolved oxygen. The laboratory studies by
Servizi (9) on Bellingham Bay muds and the Water Quality Office
sediment data show a strong potential for high oxygen demands and
significant concentrations of sulfides. Turbidity created by
dredging and spoil disposal has been shown to persist and spread
considerable distances, particularly in rivers.
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68
As evidenced by some of the Great Lakes investigations and by
studies of active dredging projects in the Northwest, it is sometimes
difficult to measure and evaluate water quality degradation in the
field. This is primarily due to the limitations of sampling tech-
niques and the nature of dredging operations. The fact that it
cannot be readily measured does not mean, however, that significant,
short-term water quality degradation is not occurring. Sufficient
evidence is available to warrant a close examination of all dredging
activities, particularly those involving spoil disposal in water.
The effects of dredging and spoil disposal on the benthic environ-
ment are more apparent and more documentation is available. The
smothering effects are obvious. Numerous studies indicate that areas
covered by spoil are generally repopulated rather rapidly. This is
only true, however, for relatively unpolluted sediments. Studies in
Puget Sound, the New York Bight, etc. have shown that marine areas
receiving polluted dredge spoil are either devoid of biological life
or maintain only a limited population. In addition, the organic
materials present can create a serious depletion of oxygen resources
in the overlying water. During spoil disposal, submarine mudflows,
as observed in Bellingham Bay and Chesepeake Bay, can spread the
effects of polluted spoil over a much wider area than the designated
disposal area. Significant degradation of the benthic community
occurs when the volatile solids content of sediments approaches or
exceeds 10 percent. To avoid this degradation and the associated
water quality problems, material having a volatile content of 10 percent
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69
or greater should, in all cases, be disposed of on land in properly
constructed and operated sites.
Dredging Techniques
As a rule, there are only minimal water quality problems associ-
ated with dredging alone. Most of the problems arise in the spoil
disposal operations. These problems can be caused by several factors,
such as "bad" material, improper location of spoil site, and poor
timing. It is in the conduct of spoil disposal operations that major
improvements are possible relative to water quality.
Until recently, spoil disposal in the Northwest was conducted on
the basis of convenience. When the material was not used for land
fill, the closest spoil disposal site was generally chosen, and the
easiest method was used. In many instances these were not compatible
with water quality control. In the last two to three years the situ-
ation has changed. State and Federal resource and regulatory agencies
have imposed controls and restrictions on many dredging operations.
Dredging contractors, port authorities, and others have followed the
imposed conditions, but only because they are official requirements.
Those planning and conducting dredging operations have shown little
inclination to adopt new equipment or methodology to minimize water
quality problems. Project proposals are still received which utilize
the same spoil disposal methods and locations which have been used for
years and which reflect little awareness of improved techniques.
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70
There are many techniques which can be used to minimize water
quality problems associated with dredging. Selection of the spoil
site is very important and will be discussed in a following section.
Basic chemical and physical analyses can be conducted to characterize
the material to be dredged. Pump-ashore barges can provide land dis-
posal for polluted materials excavated by clamshell dredge. Barge
disposal of spoil can be conducted so as to adequately disperse the
spoil and minimize smothering and water quality degradation. Under-
water dikes can keep spoil within a specified area. Basins used for
land disposal can be constructed and operated to minimize short-
circuiting and to maximize solids retention. When double handling is
required, diked areas can be utilized rather than the middle of a
river or estuary.
These and other techniques are necessary to control pollution
from dredging. The regulatory agencies are responsible for instituting
controls and enforcing them. Those in charge of planning dredging
operations also have a responsibility, to take the initiative in
utilizing pollution-control techniques in projects under their
control.
Dredging Permit System
Any dredging activity proposed for a navigable water must receive
a permit from the Corps of Engineers. The Corps refers the applications
to the regulatory fisheries and resource agencies for comments on envi-
ronmental effects. The requirements and restrictions imposed for
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71
environmental protection are incorporated directly into the final
permit.
This system works reasonably well as far as it goes. The prob-
lems arise in the areas of surveillance and enforcement. Many smaller,
but potentially damaging, projects are conducted with no permit at all.
Those projects with permits are rarely inspected to check conformance
with permit requirements. There is a definite need for an expanded
education program to promote the use of the permit system and for
increased enforcement to insure compliance with the permit as issued.
The Corps of Engineers generally has only limited staff in each
district responsible for handling all the navigation permits. There
are no resources to cover any significant project monitoring. This
should be changed. The State and Federal water pollution control
agencies, and the Corps should provide the resources to insure that
the requirement for a permit and the environmental protection measures
in permits are enforced and that water quality standards are not vio-
lated. The Corps should provide similar controls and inspections for
their own dredging activities.
Planning
There is an acute need for long-term planning of spoil disposal
for all navigable waters in the Northwest. Presently, only a minimum
amount of planning is done in the major harbor areas. Most harbors
have plans for industrial developments and other activites which will
require fill material. No one, however, is planning for the long-
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72
term spoil disposal problem, either for the material presently used
in fills or for the material unsuitable for construction fills. Each
proposed dredging project presents a "crisis" situation, and the
spoil disposal does not follow a development plan which considers
environmental effects.
To overcome this lack of planning, a coordinating group should
be formed for dredging activities in each major geographic area (i.e.
Lower Columbia River, Coos Bay). Contractors, port development
agencies, the Corps of Engineers, resource agencies, regulatory
agencies, and local planning groups, should be among the interests
represented. This group should determine the long-term spoil disposal
requirements and develop a plan to adequately handle this material,
using techniques to minimize environmental effects. One goal of such
a plan would be to develop properly designed and operated disposal
sites available to all contractors.
Deep water disposal also requires planning. Large volumes of
dredged material are not polluted and do not have the physical
characteristics suitable for fill material. This material can be
discharged back into the water if proper conditions of timing, loca-
tion, and method are met. Ideally, the material should be dispersed to
minimize turbidity, and to ensure the absence of dissolved oxygen
depression and toxicity. Planning is necessary to define the
locations and seasonal timing restriction. The resource and regula-
tory agencies should take the lead in formulating these plans, based
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73
on the requirements of the biological systems which exist in the areas.
The result should be a specific statement documenting suitable disposal
sites and the precise conditions under which each site may be used.
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BIBLIOGRAPHY
Flemer, et al. Biological Effects of Spoil Disposal in
Chesapeake Bay. Journ., Sanitary Eng. Div., ASCE, Vol.
94, No. SA4, August 1968.
Biggs, Robert B., Environmental Effects of Overboard Spoil
Disposal, Journ., San. Eng. Div., ASCE, Vol. 94, No. SA3,
June 1968.
Harrison, W., Environmental Effects of Dredging and Spoil
Deposition In Proceedings of World Dredging Conference,
1967.
Hellier, T. R., and Kornacker, L. S., Sedimentation from a
Hydraulic Dredge in a Bay. Publication, Inst. Mar. Sci.
Univ. Texas, Vol. 8, 212-215, 1962.
Brown, C. L. and Clark, Robert, Observations on Dredging and
Dissolved Oxygen in a Tidal Waterway. Water Resources
Research, Vol. 4, Number 6, December 1968.
Anonymous, The Effects of Waste Disposal in the New York Bight -
Interim Report for January 1, 1970. The Sandy Hook Marine
Laboratory, U. S. Bureau of Sport Fisheries and Wildlife,
December 1969.
Hourston, A. S., and R. H. Herlinveaux. A "Mass Mortality" of
Fish in Alberni Harbour, B. C., Progress Report No. 109,
Fisheries Research Board of Canada, Pacific Group.
November 1957. p. 3-6.
Anonymous, Pollutional Effects of Pulp and Paper Mill Wastes in
Puget Sound. March, 1967. Federal Water Pollution Control
Administration and the Washington State Pollution Control
Commission.
Servizi, J. A., Gordon, R. W., and D. W. Martens, "Marine
Disposal of Sediments from Bellingham Harbor as Related to
Sockeye and Pink Salmon Fisheries" International Pacific
Salmon Fisheries Commission, Progress Report No. 23, 1969.
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76
The following reports are all Included in the report "Dredging
and Water Quality Problems in the Great Lakes", March 1969, Depart-
ment of the Army, Buffalo District, Corps of Engineers, Buffalo,
New York. Specific references as to volume, appendix, etc., are
listed below.
10. Calumet River Dredging Pilot Project, 1967-68 - Volume 2
Appendix A-8.
11. Report on the Effects of Disposal of Dredging Spoil From
Indiana Harbor Canal Into the Inland Steel Company's
Landfill Lagoon, November 1967 - Volume 2 Appendix A-7.
12. Green Bay Pilot Study. Green Bay, Wisconsin. 1967. Volume 2
Appendix A-9.
13. "Interim Summary of Cleveland Harbor Dredging Effects Investi-
gation", Robert Hartley, December 1967. Volume 2
Appendix 4.
14. Summary of Findings, Cleveland Diked Dredging Disposal Area
Investigation, 1968. Volume 22 Appendix A-5.
15. Pilot Study of Rouge River Dredging, August - December 1967.
Volume 2 Appendix A-6.
16. Pilot Study (Summers of 1967 and 1968), Great Sodus Bay,
Disposal of Dredgings. Volume 2 Appendix A-l & A-2.
17. Anonymous, Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and
Wastewater. 12th Edition. APHA, AWWA and WPCF. 1965.
18. Anonymous, Chemistry Laboratory Manual - Bottom Sediments.
Compiled by Great Lakes Region Committee on Analytical
Methods. Environmental Protection Agency, December 1969.
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APPENDIX A
CRITERIA FOR DETERMINING ACCEPTABILITY
OF DREDGED SPOIL DISPOSAL TO THE NATION'S WATERS
-------
APPENDIX A
CRITERIA FOR DETERMINING ACCEPTABILITY OF DREDGED SPOIL
DISPOSAL TO THE NATION'S WATERS
Use of Criteria
These criteria were developed as guidelines for FWQA evaluation of
proposals and applications to dredge sediments from fresh and saline
waters.
Criteria
The decision whether to oppose plans for disposal of dredged spoil in
U.S. waters must be made on a case-by-case basis after considering
all appropriate factors; including the following:
(a) Volume of dredged material.
(b) Existing and potential quality and use of the water in the
disposal area.
(c) Other conditions at the disposal site such as depth and
currents.
(d) Time of year of disposal (i*1 relation to fish migration and
spawning, etc.).
(e) Method of disposal and alternatives,
(f) Physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of the
dredged material.
(g) Likely recurrence and total number of disposal requests in
a receiving water area.
(h) Predicted long and short term effects on receiving water
quality.
When concentrations, in sediments, of one or more of the following
pollution parameters exceed the limits expressed below, the sediment
will be considered polluted in all cases and, therefore, unacceptable
for open water disposal.
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so
Sediments in Fresh and
Marine Waters
^Volatile Solids
Chemical Oxygen
Demand (C.O.D.)
Total Kjeldahl
Nitrogen -
Oil-Grease
Mercury
Lead
Zinc
Cone. % (dry wt. basis)
6.0
5-0
0.10
0.15
0.001
0.005
0.005
*When analyzing sediments dredged from marine waters, the
following correlation between volatile solids and C.O.D.
should be made:
T.V.S. % (dry) = 1.32 + 0.98(C.O.D.%)
If the results show a significant deviation from this
equation, additional samples should be analyzed to insure
reliable measurements.
The volatile solids and C.O.D- analyses should be made first. If the
maximum limits are exceeded the sample can be characterized as
polluted and the additional parameters would not have to be investi-
gated.
Dredged sediment having concentrations of constituents less than the
limits stated above will not be automatically considered acceptable
for disposal. A judgment must be made on a case-by-case basis after
considering the factors listed in (a) through (h) above.
In addition to the analyses required to determine compliance with the
stated numerical criteria, the following additional tests are
recommended where appropriate and pertinent:
Total Phosphorus
Total Organic Carbon (T.O.C.)
Immediate Oxygen Demand (I.O.D.)
Settleability
Sulfides
Trace Metals (iron, cadmium, copper, chromium, arsenic, & nickel)
Pesticides
Bioassay
-------
81
The first four analyses would be considered desirable in almost all
instances. They may be added to the mandatory list when sufficient
experience with their interpretation is gained. For example, as
experiences is gained, the T.O.C. test may prove to be a valid sub-
stitute for the volatile solids and C.O.D. analyses. Tests for
trace metals and pesticides should be made where significant concen-
trations of these materials are expected from known waste discharges,
All analyses and techniques for sample collection, preservation and
preparation shall be in accord with a current FWQA analytical manual
on sediments.
-------
APPENDIX B
CHARACTERISTICS OF SEDIMENT SAMPLES FROM HARBOR
AREAS IN OREGON AND WASHINGTON
-------
85
BELLMGHAM
BAY
BBAY 17
BBAY 08,30
BBAY 3I,0
-------
86
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1407
Station Location: Bellingham Bay in Squalicum Creek Waterway
Latitude: 48° 45' 30" N Longitude: 122° 30' 40" W
Sampling Date: 1-14-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 0% Coefficient of
Uniformity 4
Sand 5%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 95%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 9.4
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 80
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 1.17
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0.16
Sulfides g/kg
Total Phosphorus g/kg 1.16
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 1.83
Grease and Oil g/kg 2 43
-------
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1408
Station Location: Bellingham Bay, Washington. Inner Reach of
Whatcom Creek Waterway
Latitude: 48° 45' 05" N Longitude: 122° 44' 12" W
Sampling Date: 1-15-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) % Coefficient of
Uniformity
Sand %
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) __%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 49.3
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 390
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 1.04
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0.16
Sulfides g/kg
Total Phosphorus g/kg 1.08
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 6.80
Ammonia Nitrogen g/kg
Grease and Oil g/kg 32.1
-------
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1409
Station Location: Bellingham Bay, Washington. Outer Reach of
Whatcom Creek Waterway
Latitude: 48° 44' 42" N Longitude: 122° 29' 41" W
Sampling Date: 1-15-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 0% Coefficient of
Uniformity 4
Sand 14%
Silt and Clay )_200 mesh) 86%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Uni t Value
Volatile Solids % 10.5
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 125
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 0.34
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0.12
Sulfides g/kg
Total Phosphorus g/kg 0.93
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 2.65
Ammonia Nitrogen g/kg
Grease and Oil g/kg 2 82
-------
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1410
Station Location: Bellingham Bay, Washington. Adjacent to
abandoned railroad ferry dock.
Latitude: 48° 44' 32" N Longitude: 122° 29' 41" W
Sampling date: 1-15-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 0% Coefficient of
Uniformity 8
Sand 26%
Silt and Clay (_200 mesh) 74%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 6.6
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 87
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0.08
Sulfides g/kg _____
Total Phosphorus g/kg Q.69
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 1.35
Ammonia Nitrogen g/kg
Grease and Oil g/kg 0.76
-------
90
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. BBAY-01
Station Location: Bellingham Bay near South Bellingham _
Latitude: 48° 43' 53" N Longitude: 122° 30' 28" W
Sampling Date: 6-18-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) % Coefficient of
Uniformity _
Sand _ %
Silt and Clay (_200 mesh) _ %
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS CDRY WT.)
Parameter Unt Value
Volatile Solids % 8.7
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 54
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 1.17
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0.07
Sulfides g/kg Q.61
Total Phosphorus g/ke 1 16
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg l 81
Grease and Oil g/kg 1>QO
-------
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. BBAY-02
Station Location: Bellingham Bay northeast of Starr Rock Buoy
Latitude: 48° 44' 16" N Longitude: 122° 30' 03" W
Sampling Date: 6-1869
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) % Coefficient of
Uniformity
S and %
Silt and Clay (_200 mesh) _%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 9.7
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 64
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 1.5Q
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0.11
Sulfides g/kg 0.93
Total Phosphorus g/kg 1.13
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 1.82
Grease and Oil g/kg 1.51
-------
92
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. BBAY-08
Station Location: Bellingham Bay near Outer Reach
Latitude: 48° 44' 23" N Longitude: 122° 29' 57" W
Sampling Date: 6-18-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) % Coefficient of
Uniformity
Sand %
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) %
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 9.7
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts
Sulfides g/kg 2.24
Total Phosphorus g/kg i 15
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 1>94
Grease and Oil g/kg 3^
-------
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. BBAY-09
Station Location: Bellingham Bay near South end of Outer Reach
Latitude: 48° 44' 18" N Longitude: 122° 30' 12" W
Sampling Date: 6-18-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) % Coefficient of
Uniformity
Sand %
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) %
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 7.5
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts
Sulfides g/kg 1.42
Total Phosphorus g/kg 1.11
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 1.68
Grease and Oil g/kg 2.12
-------
94
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. BBAY-10
Station Location: Bellingham Bay near South Bellingham
Latitude: 48° 44' 06" N Longitude: 122° 30' 33" W
Sampling Date: 6-18-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) % Coefficient of
Uniformity
Sand . %
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) %
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 7.3
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts
Sulfides g/kg Q.16
Total Phosphorus g/kg 1 27
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg !.64
Grease and Oil g/kg Q^
-------
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. BBAY-11
Station Location: Bellingham Bay near Starr Rock Buoy
Latitude: 48° 44' 04" N Longitude: 122° 30' 17" W
Sampling Date: 6-18-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) % Coefficient of
Uniformity _____
Sand %
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) %
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 7.7
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg _____
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg _____
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts
Sulfides g/kg 0.40
Total Phosphorus g/kg 1.15
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 1.74
Grease and Oil g/kg 1.00
-------
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. BBAY-17
Station Location: Bellingham Bay in Outer Reach
Latitude: 48° 44' 33" N Longitude: 122° 29' 56" W
Sampling Date: 6-18-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) % Coefficient of
Uniformity
Sand %
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) %
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 9.5
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 78
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 3.66
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0.15
Sulfides g/kg 2.23
Total Phosphorus g/kg 0.97
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 1.94
Grease and Oil g/kg 6>56
-------
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. BBAY-18
Station Location: Bellingham Bay near boat basin.
Latitude: 48° 45' 17" N Longitude: 122° 29' 54" W
Sampling Date: 6-18-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) % Coefficient of
Uniformity
S and %
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) %
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 3.2
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 15
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts +0.32
Sulfides g/kg 0.03
Total Phosphorus g/kg 0.64
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 0.59
Grease and Oil g/kg 0.14
-------
98
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. BBAY-26
Station Location: Bellingham Bay near Starr Rock Buoy
Latitude: 48° 44' 04" N Longitude: 122° 30' 17" W
Sampling Date: 7-16-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) % Coefficient of
Uniformity
Sand _%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) %
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 7^5
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 91
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 1.62
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts +0.01
Sulfides g/kg Q.35
Total Phosphorus g/kg Q 82
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg
Grease and Oil g/kg ^
-------
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. BBAY-27
Station Location: Bellingham Harbor near South Bellingham
Latitude: 48° 43' 53" N Longitude: 122° 30' 28" W
Sampling Date: 7-16-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) % Coefficient of
Uniformity ______^
Sand _%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) %
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 8.1
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 86
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 1.62
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0.09
Sulfides g/kg 0.04
Total Phosphorus g/kg 1.10
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg
Grease and Oil g/kg 1.46
-------
100
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. BBAY-28
Station Location: Bellingham Harbor near South Bellingham
Latitude: 48° 44' 06" N Longitude: 122° 30' 33" W
Sampling Date: 7-16-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) % Coefficient of
Uniformity
Sand %
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) %
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 8,8
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 67
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 1.55
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0.09
Sulfides g/kg Q.35
Total Phosphorus g/kg 1.08
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg
Grease and Oil g/kg 1-48
-------
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. BBAY-29
Station Location: Bellingham Bay northeast of Starr Rock Buoy
Latitude: 48° 44' 16" N Longitude: 122° 30' 05" W
Sampling Date: 7-16-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) % Coefficient of
Uniformity __
Sand %
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) %
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 9.1
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 79
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 1.83
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts +0-01
Sulfides g/kg <0.01
Total Phosphorus g/kg 1-QQ
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg _____
Grease and Oil g/kg 1.49
-------
102
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. BBAY-30
Station Location: Bellingham Bay near Outer Reach.
Latitude: 48° 44' 23" N Longitude: 122° 29' 57" W
Sampling Date: 7-1669
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) % Coefficient of
Uniformity _________
Sand %
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) %
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 8.7
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 105
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 2.86
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0.16
Sulfides g/kg Q.91
Total Phosphorus e/kg l Q7
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg
Grease and Oil g/kg ^^
-------
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. BBAY-31
Station Location: Bellingham Bay near South End of Outer REach
Latitude: 48° 44' 18" N Longitude: 122° 30' 12" W
Sampling Date: 7-16-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) % Coefficient of
Uniformity __________
Sand %
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) _%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 8.2
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 63
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 2.66
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0.13
Sulfides g/kg 2.56
Total Phosphorus g/kg 0-95
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg
Grease and Oil g/kg 4.02
-------
104
FIGURE n-2. Anacortes Area, Washington showing location of
sampling stations. "<-<*<-ion or
-------
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1411
Station Location: Anacortes Harbor, Washington. Harbor entrance
at breakwater.
Latitude: 48° 30' 43" N Longitude: 122° 31' 48" W
Sampling Date: 1-15-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 0% Coefficient of
Uniformity 5
Sand 24%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 76%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 19.2
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 214
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0.17
Sulfides g/kg
Total Phosphorus g/kg °-8^
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg " 3'83
Ammonia Nitrogen g/kg
Grease and Oil g/kg 3'84
-------
106
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1412
Station Location: Anacortes Area, Washington. Swinomish Channel
at Piling, N. 18.
Latitude: 48° 28' 42" N Longitude: 122° 31' 48" W
Sampling Date: 1-15-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 0% Coefficient of
Uni f o r mi ty 2
Sand 96%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 4%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 1.7
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 7
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts
Sulfides g/kg
Total Phosphorus g/kg 0 41
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg Q 16
Ammonia Nitrogen 2/ke
Grease and Oil e/ke
-------
FIGURE B-3. Everett Harbor, Washington showing location of
sampling stations.
-------
108
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1413
Station Location: Everett Harbor, Washington. Main Channel at
small boat harbor.
Latitude: 47° 59' 52" N Longitude: 122° 13' 21" W
Sampling Date: l-16-69_
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Shells (+6 mesh) 7% Coefficient of
Uniformity 7
Sand 68%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 25%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 5.6
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 59
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0.09
Sulfides g/kg
Total Phosphorus g/kg 0_46
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg Q_51
Ammonia Nitrogen g/ke
Grease and Oil g/kg Q ^Q
-------
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1414
Station Location: Everett Harbor, Washington. North end of
Channel near Snohomish River.
Latitude: 48° 01' 01" N Longitude: 122° 12' 55" W
Sampling Date: 1-16-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 5% Coefficient of
Uniformity 4
Sand 89%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 6%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 2.5
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 4.0
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg _____
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts +0.3
Sulfides g/kg
Total Phosphorus g/kg 0.36
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 0.13
Ammonia Nitrogen g/kg
Grease and Oil g/kg 0.11
-------
110
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1415
Station Location: Everett Harbor, Washington. Port Gardiner
Harbor Near Port of Everett Dock. _____
Latitude: 47° 59' 01" N Longitude: 122° 13' 17" W
Sampling Date: 1-16-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 5% Coefficient of
Uniformity 6
Sand 28%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 67$
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 17.8
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 163
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg Q.28
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0.19
Sulfides g/kg
Total Phosphorus g/kg 0 63
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 2 02
Ammonia Nitrogen g/kg
Grease and Oil g/kg 3 ^
-------
SHILSHOLE
BAY
FIGURE B-4. Seattle Ar^ea, Washington showing location of sampling stations,
-------
112
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1416
Station Location: Seattle, Washington. East waterway just north
of Sewer outfall.
Latitude: 47° 34' 41" N Longitude: 122° 20' 35" W
Sampling Date: 1-16-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 0% Coefficient of
Uniformity 6
Sand 27%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 73%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 25.5
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 282
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0.16
Sulfides g/kg
Total Phosphorus g/kg 0 96
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 3 33
Ammonia Nitrogen g/kg
Grease and Oil g/kg 18>0
-------
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1417
Station Location: Seattle, Washington. Duwamish River immediately
upstream from the 14th Ave . Bridge. _____
Latitude: 47° 31' 44" N Longitude: 122° 18' 42" W
Sampling Date: 1-16-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 0% Coefficient of
Uniformity 6
Sand 24%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 76%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 7.8
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 70
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 0.41
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0.05
Sulfides g/kg
Total Phosphorus g/kg 0.74
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 1.60
Ammonia Nitrogen g/kg 3.4
Grease and Oil g/kg
-------
114
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1418
Station Location: Seattle, Washington. Duwamish River immediately
downstream from 1st Ave. Bridge.
Latitude: 47° 32' 37" N Longitude: 122° 20' 04" W
Sampling Date: 1-16-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 0% Coefficient of
Uniformity 4
Sand 11%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 89%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 10.2
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg - 100
Initial Oxygen Demand (ILOD) g/kg 1.01
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0.12
Sulfides g/kg
Total Phosphorus g/kg 1 31
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 2<44
Ammonia Nitrogen e/ke
Grease and Oil g/kg ,. ^
-------
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1419
Station Location: Seattle, Washington. Duwamish River at north _
end of Riverside Reach. __ ___
Latitude: 47° 33' 53" N Longitude: 122° 20' 45" W
Sampling Date: 1-16-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) Q% Coefficient of
Uniformity 5
Sand 28%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 72%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 6-4
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 80
Initial Oxygen Demand (DOD) g/kg 0.38
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0 . 19
Sulfides g/kg _
Total Phosphorus g/kg °-78
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 1>60
Ammonia Nitrogen
Grease and Oil g/kg 5-22
-------
116
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO- 1420
Station Location: Seattle, Washington. West Waterway at mouth of
Duwamish River.
Latitude: 47° 34'40" N Longitude: 122° 21' 41" W
Sampling Date: 1-16-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 0% Coefficient of
Uniformity 6
Sand 14%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 86%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 7.5
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 85
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 0.67
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0.15
Sulfides g/kg
Total Phosphorus g/kg 1.19
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 2-U
Ammonia Nitrogen R/ke
Grease and Oil g/kg 6_8g
-------
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1421
Station Location: Seattle, Washington. Lake Washington Ship Canal
just below railroad bridge in Shilshole Bay.
Latitude: 47° 40' 02" N Longitude: 122° 24' 09" W
Sampling Date: 1-16-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 0% Coefficient of
Uniformity 3
Sand 37%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 63%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 5-0
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 48
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0-18
Sulfides g/kg
Total Phosphorus g/kg °-53
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 1-31
Ammonia Nitrogen g/kg
Grease and Oil g/kg i-31
-------
118
COMMENCEMENT
BAY
Sampling Station
FIGURE B-5. Tacoma Harbor, Washington showing location of
sampling stations.
-------
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1433
Station Location: Tacoma, Washington. City Waterway opposite
from Union Station.
Latitude: 47° 14' 48" N Longitude: 122° 25' 51" W
Sampling Date: 3-11-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTLON
Gravel (+6 mesh) 1% Coefficienf of
Uniformity 4
Sand _A3%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 56%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % HLd
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 203
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 4«65
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts ~9.'-16..
Sulfides g/kg 2-56
Total Phosphorus g/kg 1-21
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg ^!^
Ammonia Nitrogen g/kg
Grease and Oil g/kS 19'9
-------
120
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1434
Station Location: Tacoma, Washington. End of St. Regis Paper
Company dock.
Latitude: 47° 16' 10" N Longitude: 122° 25' 51" W
Sampling Date: 3-11-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 3% Coefficient of
Uniformity 4
Sand 49%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 48%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unijt Value
Volatile Solids % 13.1
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 126
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 5.16
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0.18
Sulfides g/kg 2.32
Total Phosphorus g/kg 0 92
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 1-60
Ammonia Nitrogen g/kg
Grease and Oil g/kg g>86
-------
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1435
Station Location: Tacoma, Washington. Puyallup Waterway opposite
jirom St. Regis Paper Company Plant.
Latitude: 47° 16' 01" N Longitude: 122° 25' 30" W
Sampling Date: 3-11-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 0% Coefficient of
Uniformity 2
Sand 98%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 2%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 0-7
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 2.6
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg ___
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts +0.21
Sulfides g/kg 0-02
Total Phosphorus g/kg Q-7Q
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg °-01
Atnmonia Nitrogen g/kg
Grease and Oil g/kg °-16
-------
122
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1436
Station Location: Tacoma, Washington. Center of Port Industrial _
Waterway near East llth Street.
Latitude: 47° 16' 25" N Longitude: 122° 24' 14" W
Sampling Date: 3-11-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 0% Coefficient of
Uniformity 5
Sand 17%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 83%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 3^5
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 36
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 1.24
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0.04
Sulfides g/kg Q.51
Total Phosphorus g/kg Q>g5
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 0.75
Ammonia Nitrogen g/kg
Grease and Oil g/kg ^
-------
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1437
Station Location: Tacoma, Washington. Hylebos Waterway turning
basin.
Latitude: 47° 16' 07" N Longitude: 122° 22' 16" W
Sampling Date: 3-11-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 0% Coefficient of
Uniformity
Sand 15%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 85%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 13.4
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 53
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 1.69
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0.15
Sulfides g/kg 1.73
Total Phosphorus g/kg 1.25
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 1.34
Ammonia Nitrogen
Grease and Oil g/kg 3.87
-------
124
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1438
Station Location: Tacoma, Washington. Hylebos Waterway opposite
Hooker Chemical.
Latitude: 47° 16' 47" N Longitude: 122° 24' 02" W
Sampling Date: 3-11-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 1% Coefficient of
Uniformity 2
Sand 31%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 68%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 12.8
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 39
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 1.39
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0.22
Sulfides g/kg 1.24
Total Phosphorus g/kg 0 87
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg Q>58
Ammonia Nitrogen g/kg
Grease and Oil g/kg ^g
-------
PUGET
SOUND
Sampling Station
FIGURE B-6. Chambers Creek, Washington showing location of sampling stations.
-------
126
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. CHCK-03
Station Location: Chambers Creek estuary near Steilacoom,
Washington.
Latitude: 47° 11' 06" N Longitude: 122° 34' 40" W
Sampling Date: 6-11-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) % Coefficient of
Uniformity
Sand _%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) %
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 29.6
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 169
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 2.02
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0.15
Sulfides g/kg 3.50
Total Phosphorus g/kg 0.91
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 2.94
Grease and Oil g/kg ^
-------
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. CHCK-06
Station Location: Chambers Creek estuary near Steilacoom,
Washington.
Latitude: 47° 11' 08" N Longitude: 122° 34' 35" W
Sampling Date: 6-11-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) % Coefficient of
Uniformity
Sand %
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) %
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 46.4
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 395
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 4.23
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0.15
Sulfides g/kg 3-77
Total Phosphorus g/kg °-88
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 4>13
Grease and Oil g/kg n-2
-------
128
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. CHCK-08
Station Location: Chambers Creek estuary near Steilacoom,
Washington.
Latitude: 47° 11' 12" N Longitude: 122° 34' 25" W
Sampling Date: 6-11-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) % Coefficient of
Uniformity
Sand %
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) %
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 27.5
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 352
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 2 15
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0.05
Sulfldes g/kg 1.56
Total Phosphorus g/kg Q>59
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg l^J
Grease and Oil yk
-------
129
Samplinq Station
FIGURE B-7. Olympia Harbor, Washington showing location of
sampling stations.
-------
130
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1439
Station Location: Olympia, Washington. South end of Inner Harbor.
Latitude: 47° 03' 00" N Longitude: 122° 54' 16" W
Sampling Date: 3-12-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 0% Coefficient of
Uniformity 4
Sand 9%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 91%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % ^g.9
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 100
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 1.83
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0.11
Sulfides g/kg 1.21
Total Phosphorus g/kg Ii0g
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 3.12
Ammonia Nitrogen e/ke
Grease and Oil g/kg ^^
-------
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1440
Station Location: Olympia, Washington. Bay on east side of dock
area.
Latitude: 47° 03' 20" N Longitude: 122° 53' 58" W
Sampling Date: 3-12-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 2% Coefficient of
Uniformity 8
Sand 40%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 58%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 12-3
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 1.78
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0.13
Sulfides g/k§ 1'03i
Total Phosphorus g/k§ °'68
Kjeldahl Nitrogen S/k§ 2'94
Ammonia Nitrogen gAg .
Grease and Oil g/kg 2'36
-------
132
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1441
Station Location: Olympia, Washington. Outer channel.
Latitude: 47° 04' 57" N Longitude: 122° 55' 28" W
Sampling Date: 3-12-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 0% Coefficient of
Uniformity 5
Sand 8%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 92%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 10.2
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 84
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 2.07
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0.06
Sulfides g/kg 1.17
Total Phosphorus g/kg 0 82
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 3>2Q
Ammonia Nitrogen g/kg
Grease and Oil g/kg 2>78
-------
GRAYS HARBOR
FIGURE B-8. Grays Harbor, Washington showing location of sampling stations.
-------
134
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO- 1442
Station Location: Grays Harbor, Washington. Harbor at Aberdeen
near mouth of Wishkah River.
Latitude: 46° 58' 28" N Longitude: 123° 48' 26" W
Sampling Date: 3-12-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 0% Coefficient of
Uniformity 5
Sand 23%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 77%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 7,7
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 64
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 1.10
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0.02
Sulfides g/kg Q.62
Total Phosphorus g/ke 0 85
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 1,96
Ammonia Nitrogen g/kg
Grease and Oil g/kg ^^
-------
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1443
Station Location: Grays Harbor, Washington. Hoquiam at mouth of
Hoquiam River. _
Latitude: 46° 58' 10" N Longitude: 123° 52' 35" W
Sampling Date: 3-12-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) _0% Coefficient of
Uniformity 7 _
Sand _51%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 49%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT . )
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 9-4
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 6J
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 1-07
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0.06
Sulfides g/kg 1-34
Total Phosphorus g/kg °'82
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 1'78
Ammonia Nitrogen g/kg
Grease and Oil g/kg 3'32
-------
136
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1444
Station Location: Grays Harbor, Washington. Channel at Port Dock
at Slip No. 2.
Latitude: 46° 58' 10" N Longitude: 123° 52' 35" W
Sampling Date: 3-12-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 0% Coefficient of
Uniformity 6
Sand 42%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 58%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 8.2
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 62
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 0.82
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0.04
Sulfides g/kg Q.72
Total Phosphorus g/kg 0 80
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 1 82
Ammonia Nitrogen g/kg
Grease and Oil g/kg ^^
-------
Sampling Station
FIGURE B-9. Portland Harbor, Oregon showing location of sampling stations.
-------
138
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1401
Station Location: Portland Harbor, Oregon. Slip 2, Terminal 4,
Portland Public Docks .
Latitude: 45° 36' 08" N Longitude: 122° 46' 29" W
Sampling Date: 12-9-68
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 0% Coefficient of
Uniformity
Sand 38%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 62%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 7.2
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 57
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 0.42
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts
Sulfides g/kg
Total Phosphorus g/kg 1 27
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 1.26
Ammonia Nitrogen g/kg 0.16
Grease and Oil g/kg Q>19
-------
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1402
Station Location: Portland Harbor, Oregon. Berth 2, Terminal^,
Portland Public Docks
Latitude: 45° 33' 01" N Longitude: 122° 42' 08" W
Sampling Date: 12-9-68
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 0% Coefficient of
Uniformity
Sand 10%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 90%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 9-7
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg Z§
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 0-49
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts
Sulfides g/kS
Total Phosphorus g/k8 1'^6
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kS 2'9
Ammonia Nitrogen g/k§ Q'2^
Grease and Oil g/k§ _JL^Z
-------
140
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1403
Station Location: Portland Harbor, Oregon. West end Berth 1,
Terminal 2, Portland Public Docks
Latitude: 45° 33' 56" N Longitude: 122° 42' 13" W
Sample Date: 12-9-68
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 0% Coefficient of
Uniformity
Sand 37%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 63%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 8.8
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 127
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 0.38
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts
Sulfides g/kg
Total Phosphorus g/kg 1.65
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 1.22
Ammonia Nitrogen g/kg 0 20
Grease and Oil g/kg 1.03
-------
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1404
Station Location: Portland Harbor, Oregon. Channel at north end
of Swan Island
Latitude: 45° 34' 11" N Longitude: 122° 43' 25" W
Sampling Date: 12-9-68
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 0% Coefficient of
Uniformity
Sand 12%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 88%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 7-5
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 21
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 0.78
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts
Sulfides g/kg
Total Phosphorus g/k8 1*65
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 1-57
Ammonia Nitrogen g/kg °'22
Grease and Oil g/kg - 1'65
-------
142
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO- 1405
Station Location: Portland Harbor, Oregon. Mid channel of
Willamette River at north end of Swan Island.
Latitude: 45° 34' 11" N Longitude: 122° 43' 52" W
Sampling Date: 12-9-68
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 0% Coefficient of
Uniformity
Sand 25%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 75%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 7.1
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 41
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 0.40
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts
Sulfides g/kg
Total Phosphorus g/kg 1.14
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 1.04
Ammonia Nitrogen g/kg 0 22
Grease and Oil g/kg 1>6y
-------
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1406
Station Location: Portland Harbor, Oregon. Slip between oil company
docks along west side Willamette River opposite north end Swan Island.
Latitude: 45° 34' 03" N Longitude: 122° 44' 12" W
Sampling Date: 12-9-68
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 0% Coefficient of
Uniformity _
Sand 15%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 85%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 7-4
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 64
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 0.99
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts
Sulfides g/k§
Total Phosphorus g/kg 1-44
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 1'48
Ammonia Nitrogen g/kg 0<21
Grease and Oil S/k§
-------
ASTORIA
YOUNGS BAY
FIGURE B-10. Astoria and Newport areas, Oregon showing location
of sampling stations.
-------
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO.
1427
Station Location: Astoria, Oregon. Entrance to Fisherman's
Coop. Slip.
Latitude: 46° 11' 27" N
Sampling Date: 2-27-69
Longitude: 123" 51' 10" W
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh)
Sand
Silt and Clay
0%
Coefficient
Uniformity
70%
30%
Parameter
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Unit
Volatile Solids
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD)
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD)
Oxidation-Reduction Potential
Sulfides
Total Phosphorus
Kjeldahl Nitrogen
Ammonia Nitrogen
Grease and Oil
g/kg
g/kg
millivolts
g/kg
g/kg
g/kg
g/kg
g/kg
Value
4.5
38
0.45
-0.13
0.13
0.78
0.84
0.61
-------
146
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1428
Station Location: Astoria, Oregon. Entrance to Slip No. 2.
Latitude: 46° 11' 24" N Longitude: 123° 51' 36" W
Sampling Date: 2-27-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 1% Coefficient of
Uniformity
Sand 51%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 48%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 4,3
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 27
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 0.49
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0.11
Sulfides g/kg Q.25
Total Phosphorus g/kg 0 84
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 1.18
Ammonia Nitrogen g/kg
Grease and Oil g/kg 1 Ql
-------
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1429
Station Location: Astoria, Oregon. Young's Bay along ship channel.
Latitude: 46° 10' 25" N Longitude: 123° 51' 38" W
Sampling Date: 2-27-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 0% Coefficient of
Uniformity
Sand 93%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 7%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 2.2
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 20
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 0.26
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts +0.01
Sulfides g/kg Q.Q4
Total Phosphorus g/kg 0.74
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 0.49
Ammonia Nitrogen g/kg
Grease and Oil g/kg 0.31
-------
143
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1430
Station Location: Yaquina Bay, Oregon.
Latitude: 44° 37' 39" N Longitude: 124° 3' 14" W
Sampling Date: 2-27-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 29% Coefficient of
Uni f o r mi ty 35
Sand _5J3%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) _16_%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 17.1
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 0.95
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0.14
Sulfides g/kg 1.74
Total Phosphorus g/kg 1 53
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 0 72
Ammonia Nitrogen g/kg
Grease and Oil g/kg 2 08
-------
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1431
Station Location: Yaquina River, Oregon. Weiser Point.
Latitude: 44° 35' 39" N Longitude: 124° 0' 41" W
Sampling Date: 2-27-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 0% Coefficient of
Uniformity
Sand 56%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 44%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 7-°
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 58 .
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg °.-.79
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts ~°-09
Sulfides §/kg -1-03
Total Phosphorus g/k§ °'66
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/k§ lj41
Ammonia Nitrogen g/kg
Grease and Oil
g/kg 1.62
-------
150
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1432
Station Location: Yaquina River, Oregon. At Toledo.
Latitude: 44° 36' 55" N Longitude: 123° 56' 48" W
Sampling Date: 2-27-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 5% Coefficient of
Uniformity 2
Sand 94%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 1%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 2.6
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 20
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 0.08
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts +0.41
Sulfides g/kg Q.03
Total Phosphorus g/kg 0 24
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg Q^
Ammonia Nitrogen g/kg
Grease and Oil g/kg Q>17
-------
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1445
Station Location: Yaquina River, Oregon. Mouth of Depot Slough
at Toledo.
Latitude: 44° 36' 56" N Longitude: 123° 56' 19" W
Sampling Date: 5-1-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 0% Coefficient of
Uniformity
Sand 11%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 89%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 13-7
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 160
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 2.75
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts +0.11
Sulfides g/kg Q.H
Total Phosphorus g/kg 1.27
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg
Ammonia Nitrogen g/kg
Grease and Oil g/kg
-------
152
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1446
Station Location: Yaquina River, Oregon^ Depot Slough at Toledo
near Georgia Pacific Plywood Plant.
Latitude: 44° 37* 09" N Longitude: 123° 56' 16" W
Sampling Date: 5-1-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel & Wood Chips (+6 mesh) 5% Coefficient of
Uniformity
Sand 3970
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 56%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS ( DRYWT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 21.8
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 268
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg 1.92
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts 40.09
Sulfides g/kg O.IQ
Total Phosphorus g/kg 1 19
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg
Ammonia Nitrogen g/kg
Grease and Oil g/kg
-------
FIGURE B-ll. Coos Bay, Oregon showing location of sampling
stations.
-------
154
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1422
Station Location: Coos Bay, Oregon. Channel just below Sitka Dock.
Latitude: 43° 22' 27" N Longitude: 124° 17' 52" W
Sampling Date: 1-23-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 0% Coefficient of
Uniformity 6
Sand 63%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 37%,
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS ( DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value^
Volatile Solids % 5,3
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 53
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0.05
Sulfides g/kg
Total Phosphorus g/kg 0 31
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 0.75
Ammonia Nitrogen g/kg 0.71
Grease and Oil g/kg
-------
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1423
Station Location: Coos Bay, Oregon. Channel at entrance to Jordan
Cove, _
Latitude: 43° 25' 42" N Longitude: 124° 14' 48" W
Sampling Date: 1-23-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 0% Coefficient of
Uniformity 1.4
Sand 967,
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 4%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS ( DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 1.3
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 12
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts +0.05
Sulfides g/kg
Total Phosphorus g/kg 003
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 0.37
Ammonia Nitrogen g/kg
Grease and Oil g/kg 0.13
-------
156
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1424
Station Location: Coos Bay, Oregon. Along west side of North Bend
Upper Range Channel.
Latitude: 43° 23' 58" N Longitude: 124° 12' 58" W
Sampling Date: 1-23-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 0% Coefficient of
Uniformity 18
Sand 69%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 31%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 9.1
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 141
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0011
Sulfides g/kg
Total Phosphorus g/kg 0.62
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg Ie28
Ammonia Nitrogen g/kg
Grease and Oil g/kg 0.98
-------
BOTTOM SAMPLE N00 1425
Station Location: Coos Bay, Oregon. West side of channel opposite
FL G light.
Latitude: 43° 21' 50" N Longitude: 124° 12' 34" W
Sampling Date: 1-23-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Gravel (+6 mesh) 0% Coefficient of
Uniformity 7
Sand 12%
Silt and Clay (-200 mesh) 88%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS ( DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 12.8
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 105
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0012
Sulfides g/kg
Total Phosphorus g/kg 2.55
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 0.88
Ammonia Nitrogen g/kg
Grease and Oil g/kg 3.5
-------
158
BOTTOM SAMPLE NO. 1426
Station Location: Coos Bay, Oregon. Isthmus Slough near Bay Park.
Latitude: 43° 20' 58" N Longitude: 124° 11' 50" W
Sampling Date: 1-23-69
PARTICLE SIZE DISTRIBUTION
Bark Chips (+6 mesh) 5% Coefficient of
Uniformity 15
Sand 40%
Silt and Clay (-200) 55%
CHEMICAL CHARACTERISTICS (DRY WT.)
Parameter Unit Value
Volatile Solids % 15.1
Chemical Oxygen Demand (COD) g/kg 134
Initial Oxygen Demand (IDOD) g/kg
Oxidation-Reduction Potential millivolts -0.13
Sulfides g/kg
Total Phosphorus g/kg 0.80
Kjeldahl Nitrogen g/kg 2.44
Ammonia Nitrogen g/kg
Grease and Oil g/kg 2 58
------- |