&EHV
United States Industrial Environmental Research EPA-600/7-79-073f
Environmental Protection Laboratory September 1979
Agency Research Triangle Park NC 27711
Environmental
Assessment of Coal
Cleaning Processes:
Homer City Power
Complex Testing
Interagency
Energy/Environment
R&D Program Report
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RESEARCH REPORTING SERIES
Research reports of the Office of Research and Development, U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency, have been grouped into nine series. These nine broad cate-
gories were established to facilitate further development and application of en-
vironmental technology. Elimination of traditional grouping was consciously
planned to foster technology transfer and a maximum interface in related fields.
The nine series are:
1. Environmental Health Effects Research
2. Environmental Protection Technology
3. Ecological Research
4. Environmental Monitoring
5. Socioeconomic Environmental Studies
6. Scientific and Technical Assessment Reports (STAR)
7. Interagency Energy-Environment Research and Development
8. "Special" Reports
9. Miscellaneous Reports
This report has been assigned to the INTERAGENCY ENERGY-ENVIRONMENT
RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT series. Reports in this series result from the
effort funded under the 17-agency Federal Energy/Environment Research and
Development Program. These studies relate to EPA's mission to protect the public
health and welfare from adverse effects of pollutants associated with energy sys-
tems. The goal of the Program is to assure the rapid development of domestic
energy supplies in an environmentally-compatible manner by providing the nec-
essary environmental data and control technology. Investigations include analy-
ses of the transport of energy-related pollutants and their health and ecological
effects; assessments of, and development of, control technologies for energy
systems; and integrated assessments of a wide range of energy-related environ-
mental issues.
EPA REVIEW NOTICE
This report has been reviewed by the participating Federal Agencies, and approved
for publication. Approval does not signify that the contents necessarily reflect
the views and policies of the Government, nor does mention of trade names or
commercial products constitute endorsement or recommendation for use.
This document is available to the public through the National Technical Informa-
tion Service, Springfield, Virginia 22161.
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EPA-600/7-79-073f
September 1979
Environmental Assessment of Coal Cleaning
Processes: Homer City Power
Complex Testing
by
S.E. Rogers, D.A. Tolle, DP. Brown, R. Clark, D. Sharp, J. Stilwell, and B.W. Vignon
Battelle Columbus Laboratories
505 King Ave.
Columbus, Ohio 43201
Contract No. 68-02-2163
Task No. 813
Program Element No. EHE624A
EPA Project Officer: James D. Kilgroe
Industrial Environmental Research Laboratory
Office of Environmental Engineering and Technology
Research Triangle Park, NC 27711
Prepared for
U.S. ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
Office of Research and Development
Washington, DC 20460
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FOREWORD
Many elements and chemical compounds are known to be toxic to man
and other biological species. Our knowledge concerning the levels and
conditions under which these substances are toxic is extremely limited,
however. Little is known concerning the emission of these pollutants
from industrial processes and the mechanisms by which they are
transported, transformed, dispersed, or accumulated in our environment.
Portions of the Federal Clean Air Act, the Resource Conservation
Recovery Act, and the Federal Water Pollution Control Act require the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to identify and regulate
hazardous or toxic substances which result from man's industrial activ-
ities. Industrial pollutants are often identified only after harmful
health or ecological effects are noted. Remedial actions are costly,
the damage to human and other biological populations is often irrevers-
ible, and the persistence of some environmental contaminants may
endanger future populations.
EPA's Office of Research and Development (ORD) is responsible for
health and ecological research, studies concerning the transportation
and fate of pollutants, and the development of technologies for con-
trolling industrial pollutants. The Industrial Environmental Research
Laboratory, an ORD organization, is responsible for development of
pollution control technology and conducts a large environmental assess-
ment program. The primary objectives of this program are:
• The development of information on the quantities of toxic
pollutants emitted from various industrial processes—information
needed to prioritize health and ecological research efforts.
• The identification of industrial pollutant emissions which pose a
clearly evident health or ecological risk and which should be
regulated.
• The evaluation and development of technologies for controlling
pollution from these toxic substances.
The coal cleaning environmental assessment program has as its
specific objectives the evaluation of pollution and pollution control
problems which are unique to coal preparation, storage, and trans-
portation. The coal preparation industry is a mature yet changing
industry and in recent years significant achievements have been made in
pollution abatement.
This report deals with one portion of an IERL/RTP program which is
designed to focus on the effectiveness and efficiency of coal cleaning
processes as a means of reducing the total environmental impact of
energy production through coal utilization. Specifically, the pre-
operational environmental of the advanced physical coal cleaning
facility at Homer City, Pennsylvania, was studied for the purpose of
providing a reference point for future comparisons.
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ABSTRACT
This report describes a preliminary, preoperational environmental
survey conducted at a newly constructed advanced physical coal cleaning
facility located near Homer City, Pennsylvania. The work comprises a
part of a comprehensive environmental assessment of physical and
chemical coal cleaning processes performed by Battelle's Columbus
Laboratories for the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA).
A series of multimedia grab-sampling campaigns were conducted in the
study area to document the abundance or concentration of selected envi-
ronmental parameters. The data collected in the campaigns were used to
evaluate the air, water, and biological quality of the study area both
through interpretive techniques and by direct comparison with EPA
Multimedia Environmental Goals (MEG) values.
Fugitive dust was monitored using high-volume samplers at locations
verified by a multiple source fugitive dust dispersion model, field-
calibrated to the monitoring results and source conditions at the Homer
City Station. The model is able to predict dispersion levels at various
distances under a variety of meteorologic conditions.
The fugitive dust chemical analysis revealed two important phenom-
ena. First, there are uncombusted coal dusts 2,000 meters downwind of
the coal cleaning plant site that exhibit levels of lead, cadmium,
arsenic, and mercury higher than those present in the whole-coal or
disposed ash. Cadmium and lead values are several orders of magnitude
higher than those in the whole-coal or disposed ash. Beryllium and
vanadium were not found in the coal dusts but are quite evident in the
source coals. Second, magnification of trace metal compounds may be
attributed to the cleavage of the coal along planes where these metal
compounds were concentrated. The particles released by fracturing along
these planes evidently tend to become airborne due to air or vehicular
movement over the coal pile.
Water quality in each of the basins monitored is a direct reflection
of the types of land uses involved. The five major land uses in the
iii
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study area affecting stream water are: agriculture, mining, urban,
construction, and power generation.
The stream sediments of the study area are heavily laden with metal
compounds. These streams exhibit high dissolved oxygen levels and, were
it not for the pH extremes and suspended solid levels, the streams could
begin a rather rapid recovery. As expected in a coal region lithology,
the streams had sufficiently high levels of various forms of iron,
manganese, sulfur, and calcium to be of some concern.
The aquatic biota reconnaissance involved the sampling of three
groups of organisms (attached algae, bottom-dwelling invertebrates, and
fish) indicative of the streams' biological quality. Sampling was con-
ducted at 14 locations in eight streams.
The subjective analysis of water quality based on the aquatic biota
observed was in close agreement with the water chemistry analysis.
The terrestrial habitats evaluated within a 2-mile (3.2-km) radius
of the coal cleaning plant are quite diverse and support animals common
to all successional stages, especially those wildlife species asso-
ciated with the early successional vegetation. Very little wetland
habitat exists, and the streams and ponds which do occur in the area are
unsuitable for water birds. The observation of particulate matter cov-
ering vegetation and leaf litter within 1 mile (1.6 km) of the coal pile
suggests that plant biota in that area may soon begin to show signs of
stress.
In summary, the ambient environment in the study area appeared to be
typical of many western Pennsylvania areas which include coal mining and
handling operations. In many cases, stream water chemistry and biolog-
ical quality were adversely affected by pollution sources outside of the
study area, especially by acid mine drainage. Power complex operations
had a negative impact on the chemical and biological quality of a few of
the smaller tributaries. Levels of particulates in the air were high in
the vicinity of the coal storage pile, but dropped down to relatively
good air quality levels off of the power station property. Terrestrial
vegetation is presently diverse in the study area. Some of the more
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sensitive plant species close to the coal pile, however, may begin to
show signs of stress due to the accumulation of coal dust and other
particulates.
Both the terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems in the vicinity of the
Homer City Coal Cleaning Plant reflect varying degrees of environmen-
tal stress. The general area has been the site of numerous coal-related
activities for decades. Old abandoned strip mines in the vicinity as
well as on-site coal-fired power plants influence the natural envi-
ronment. Estimated permissible concentration (EPC) values for several
elements were found to be exceeded in either air or water media at the
site before the coal cleaning facility began operation.
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ACKNOWLEDGMENT
This study was conducted as a Task in Battelle's Columbus
Laboratories' program, "Environmental Assessment of Coal Cleaning
Processes", which is supported by the U.S. EPA IERL/RTP. The contribu-
tions of the Program Manager, Mr. G. Ray Smithson, Jr., and the Deputy
Program Manager, Mr. Alexis W. Lemmon, Jr., are gratefully acknowledged.
We also gratefully acknowledge the help of the Pennsylvania Electric
Company and the New York State Electric and Gas Company in permitting
the environmental measurements to be made at their facilities and pro-
viding personnel and equipment to assist us in operating the air
monitoring stations. Their support of this program is appreciated.
Mr. James H. Tice and Mr. Raymond W. McGraw of Penelec were particularly
helpful in facilitating the field sampling program.
The following organizations and individuals provided support:
Benedict, Bowman, Craig, and Moos, who performed the soil analysis and
hydrometer tests; Tradet Laboratories, who performed chemical analysis
on water samples, sediment samples, fish samples, and fiber glass filter
pads; Mr. Edward Zawadzki, consultant, General Public Utilities; and
Dr. Gilbert Raines, consultant.
The advice and counsel of the EPA Project Officer, Mr. James D.
Kilgroe, and others at the IERL/RTP facility were invaluable in
performance of this work.
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
Page
Foreword ii
Abstract iii
Acknowledgment vi
List of Figures x
List of Tables xii
List of Abbreviations xvii
INTRODUCTION 1
Description of the Study Area 2
Data Comparison with MEG Values 3
Environmental Components Sampled 5
CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS 7
Environmental Quality Prior to Cleaning Plant Operation 7
Pollutant Toxicity Considerations and
MEG Value Comparisons 10
TERRESTRIAL ENVIRONMENT 14
Fugitive Dust Monitoring 14
Terrestrial Biota Survey . 18
Comparison of Analytical Data with MEG Values—
Terrestrial Environment 26
AQUATIC ENVIRONMENT 33
Water Quality Determinations 33
Land Use Analysis 35
vii
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
(Continued)
Page
Cherry Run Basin 43
Wier's Run 56
Common Ravine/Second Ravine 66
Two Lick Creek Basin 71
Summary of Water Quality Conditions 77
Comparison of Analytical Data with MEG
Values—Aquatic Environment 78
Aquatic Biota Survey 85
COAL CLEANING REFUSE DISPOSAL SITE 98
Site Description 98
Facility Design 100
Potential Operational Problems—Pollution Potential 103
Recommendations for Future Monitoring 104
REFERENCES 106
APPENDIX A. FUGITIVE DUST MONITORING 110
Location of Monitoring Sites Ill
Diffusion Model Results 112
Fugitive Dust Sources 113
Modeling Activities 114
Survey Data 123
References 160
APPENDIX B. TERRESTRIAL BIOTA OBSERVATIONS 161
APPENDIX C. WATER QUALITY DETERMINATIONS 166
viii
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
(Continued)
Page
Land Use Analysis 167
Physical Descriptions of the Drainage Basins in the
Vicinity of the Homer City Coal Cleaning Plant 179
Water Chemistry 183
Water Quality Analyses 195
References 223
APPENDIX D. AQUATIC BIOTA RECONNAISSANCE 225
Sampling Site Locations and Descriptions 226
Organisms Selected for Study 226
Sampling and Analysis Procedures 229
Detailed Data 230
References 253
GLOSSARY 254
IX
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LIST OF FIGURES
Page
1. MAP OF THE HOMER CITY POWER COMPLEX 4
2. LOCATION OF FUGITIVE DUST SOURCES AND MONITORING SITES 15
3. VEGETATION TYPES IN THE VICINITY OF THE
HOMER CITY COAL CLEANING PLANT 20
4. FUGITIVE DUST CONCENTRATIONS COMPARED TO A TRANSECT
OF THE AREA'S TOPOGRAPHICAL RELIEF 27
5. STREAMS AND TRIBUTARIES SURVEYED IN THE HOMER CITY AREA 34
6. SURFACE WATER QUALITY SAMPLING LOCATIONS 36
7. STREAM SEDIMENT SAMPLING LOCATIONS 37
8. CHERRY RUN SAMPLING LOCATIONS—CAMPAIGN I 44
9. CHERRY RUN SAMPLING LOCATIONS—CAMPAIGNS II AND III 45
10. HISTOGRAMS OF SOME IMPORTANT SOLUBILITY CONTROLLING
INDICATOR SPECIES IN CHERRY RUN BASIN 46
11. BUFFER CAPACITY—CHERRY RUN 49
12. PHENOL, COD, AND TOC CONCENTRATIONS AT VARIOUS
LOCATIONS IN THE CHERRY RUN WATERSHED 52
13. CONCENTRATIONS OF PLANT NUTRIENTS AT VARIOUS
LOCATIONS IN CHERRY RUN WATERSHED . 54
14. SOLIDS FRACTIONS AT VARIOUS LOCATIONS
IN THE CHERRY RUN WATERSHED 55
15. WIER'S RUN SAMPLING LOCATIONS—CAMPAIGN I 57
16. WIER'S RUN SAMPLING LOCATIONS—CAMPAIGNS II AND III 58
17. CONCENTRATIONS OF IMPORTANT SOLUBILITY-CONTROLLING
SPECIES IN WIER'S RUN 60
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LIST OF FIGURES
(Continued)
Page
18. BUFFER CAPACITY—WIER'S RUN 62
19. NUTRIENT CONCENTRATIONS IN WIER'S RUN BASIN 64
20. COMMON RAVINE/SECOND RAVINE SAMPLING LOCATIONS—CAMPAIGN I .... 67
21. COMMON RAVINE/SECOND RAVINE SAMPLING LOCATIONS-
CAMPAIGNS II AND III 68
22. TWO LICK CREEK SAMPLING LOCATIONS—CAMPAIGN I 72
23. TWO LICK CREEK SAMPLING LOCATIONS—CAMP AIGNS II AND III 73
24. CONCENTRATIONS OF SOME IMPORTANT SOLUBILITY CONTROLLING
SPECIES IN TWO LICK CREEK 75
25. AQUATIC BIOTA SAMPLING LOCATIONS 86
26. COAL CLEANING REFUSE DISPOSAL AREA 99
27. DISPOSAL STAGES AND POND LOCATIONS 101
28. RESULTS OF LINEAR REGRESSION ANALYSIS
(PREDICTED VERSUS OBSERVED) 118
29. CONCENTRATION OF FERROUS IRON AS A FUNCTION
OF pH IN A CARBON ATE-FREE SYSTEM 186
30. SOLUBILITY OF FERROUS IRON AS A FUNCTION OF pH IN A
SYSTEM CONTAINING DISSOLVED CARBONATE SPECIES 187
31. STABILITY RELATIONSHIPS IN THE SYSTEM—Fe-02-C02 188
32. CONCENTRATION OF FERRIC IRON AS A FUNCTION OF pH 189
33. SOLUBILITY OF FERROUS IRON IN AN OXYGENATED SYSTEM 191
34. FIELDS OF STABILITY OF SOLIDS AND SOLUBILITY OF MANGANESE AS A
FUNCTION OF Eh AND pH AT 25 C AND 1 ATMOSPHERE OF PRESSURE .... 192
35. SOLUBILITIES OF SOME METALS SHOWING DEPENDENCE ON pH AT 25 C . . . 193
36. EQUILIBRIUM pH IN RELATION TO CALCIUM AND BICARBONATE
ACTIVITIES IN SOLUTION IN CONTACT WITH CALCITE 194
xi
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LIST OF TABLES
1. COMPARISONS OF EPC VALUES FOR AIR WITH HOMER CITY
FUGITIVE DUST DATA 28
2. COMPARISONS OF EPC VALUES FOR SOIL WITH HOMER
CITY FUGITIVE DUST DATA 30
3. COMPARISONS OF MATE VALUES FOR SOLID WASTE
WITH HOMER CITY FUGITIVE DUST DATA 32
4. WATER QUALITY PARAMETERS—HOMER CITY RECONNAISSANCE SURVEY .... 38
5. LAND USE INFLUENCE ON STREAM WATER QUALITY
AT HOMER CITY POWER COMPLEX 39
6. CAUSE/EFFECT MATRIX OF LAND USE CONTRIBUTIONS
TO WATER QUALITY PARAMETER VALUES 40
7. CHEMICAL ANALYSIS—WATER YEAR 1973 YOUNG WOMAN'S
CREEK NEAR RENOVO, PENNSYLVANIA 42
8. FORM OF TRACE METALS IN WATER SAMPLES OBTAINED AT SITE CDE1 .... 50
9. COMPARISONS OF EPC AND MATE VALUES FOR WATER WITH
HOMER CITY SURFACE WATER QUALITY DATA 79
10. COMPARISONS OF CRITERIA RECOMMENDED FOR FRESHWATER AQUATIC
LIFE WITH HOMER CITY SURFACE WATER QUALITY DATA 81
11. WATER QUALITY PARAMETERS IN CLOSE AGREEMENT
WITH BIOTA QUALITY RATING 82
12. COMPARISONS OF EPC AND MATE VALUES FOR SOIL WITH
HOMER CITY SEDIMENT QUALITY DATA 84
13. BIOLOGICAL QUALITY EVALUATION OF STREAMS SURVEYED
IN THE AREA OF THE HOMER CITY POWER COMPLEX 96
14. SHORT-TERM AND LONG-TERM CONCENTRATIONS
VERSUS OBSERVED CONCENTRATIONS 119
15. WIND SPEED AND DIRECTION DURING CAMPAIGN II—
FIRST 24-HOUR PERIOD 121
xii
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LIST OF TABLES
(Continued)
Page
16. COMPARISON OF PREDICTED VERSUS OBSERVED CONCENTRATIONS
DURING PERIODS OF LIGHT VARIABLE WINDS DURING
CAMPAIGN II—FIRST 24-HOUR PERIOD 122
17. PARTICULATE CONCENTRATIONS IN THE VICINITY
OF THE COAL CLEANING FACILITY 124
18. DATA PRESENTATION OF PARTICLE SIZING SAMPLER 127
19. RESULTS OF OPTICAL EXAMINATION OF FILTER PADS, CAMPAIGN I 128
20. RESULTS OF OPTICAL EXAMINATION OF FILTER PADS, CAMPAIGN II .... 131
21. RESULTS OF MICROSCOPIC EXAMINATION OF GLASS-FIBER
FILTER PADS, CAMPAIGN III 134
22. BLANK ANALYSIS OF FILTER USED IN CAMPAIGN II 140
23. BLANK ANALYSIS OF FILTER USED IN CAMPAIGN III 141
24. TRACE ELEMENT ANALYSIS OF THE PARTICLE SIZING SAMPLER
USED AT SITE 3, CAMPAIGN III 142
25. COMPARISON BETWEEN TRACE ELEMENT CONCENTRATIONS
IN 12- AND 24-HOUR SAMPLES 144
26. COMPARISON BETWEEN TRACE ELEMENT CONCENTRATIONS AT
SELECTED SITES (CAMPAIGNS I, II, AND III) 145
27. TRACE ELEMENT CONCENTRATIONS AS THEY RELATE TO MASS CONCENTRATION
RANGES FOR ALL SITES AND ALL CAMPAIGNS 146
28. TRACE ELEMENT CONCENTRATION OF PARTICULATE ON THE FILTER PAD ... 147
29. COAL ANALYSIS (HELEN MINE) 149
30. TRACE ELEMENT ANALYSIS (HELEN MINE) 149
31. COAL ANALYSIS (HELVETIA MINE) 150
32. TRACE ELEMENT ANALYSIS (HELVETIA MINE) 150
33. COAL ANALYSIS (TRUCKED-IN COAL) 151
34. TRACE ELEMENT ANALYSIS (TRUCKED-IN COAL) 151
35. HYPOTHESIS THAT THE MEANS OF THE SAMPLES AT
EACH SAMPLING SITE ARE IDENTICAL 153
xiii
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LIST OF TABLES
(Continued)
Page
36. HYPOTHESIS THAT THE MEANS OF THE SAMPLES AT SITES 1 AND 3 ARE
IDENTICAL TO THOSE AT SITES 4 AND 5, AND SITES 8 AND 9 ...... 154
37. HYPOTHESIS THAT THE MEANS OF THE FOLLOWING SAMPLE GROUPS ARE
IDENTICAL: 24-HOUR SAMPLES, 12-HOUR DAY SAMPLE, AND
12-HOUR NIGHT SAMPLE .......................
38. HYPOTHESIS THAT THE MEANS OF THE FOLLOWING SAMPLE GROUPS ARE
IDENTICAL 12-HOUR DAY AND 12-HOUR NIGHT SAMPLES .......... 156
39. WOODY SPECIES RECORDED AROUND THE HOMER CITY POWER COMPLEX .... 162
40. MEDIUM AND LARGE SIZE MAMMALS RECORDED
AROUND THE HOMER CITY POWER COMPLEX ................ 163
41. BIRDS OBSERVED AROUND THE HOMER CITY POWER COMPLEX ........ 164
42. REPTILES AND AMPHIBIANS OBSERVED AROUND PONDS AND STREAMS
NEAR THE HOMER CITY POWER COMPLEX ................. 165
43. MINE DRAINAGE CLASSES ....................... 171
44. CHEMICAL COMPOSITION OF COALS ................... 196
45. ANALYSES OF ASH FROM ASH DISPOSAL AREA AT HOMER CITY COMPLEX ... 197
46. CONCENTRATION RATIOS FOR SELECTED METALS AND NONMETALS
IN HOMER CITY ASH AND COAL SAMPLES ................ 198
47. ANALYTICAL TECHNIQUES FOR WATER SAMPLES .............. 201
48. ANALYTICAL TECHNIQUES FOR SEDIMENT SAMPLES ............ 203
49. SURFACE WATER ANALYSES FOR CHERRY RUN BASIN-
PART 1: CHEMICAL CONTROLS ON SOLUBILITY ............. 204
50. GROUNDWATER ANALYSES FOR CHERRY RUN BASIN-
PART 1: SOLUBILITY CONTROLLING SPECIES .............. 205
51. COMPARISON OF WATER QUALITY AT STATIONS H14 AND H16 ON CHERRY
RUN ABOVE AND BELOW MINE BOREHOLE DISCHARGES (CAMPAIGN I) ..... 206
52. SURFACE WATER ANALYSES FOR CHERRY RUN BASIN-
PART 2: TRACE MATERIALS ..................... 207
53. SEDIMENT ANALYSES— CHERRY RUN ..... .............. 208
54. GRANULOMETRY— CHERRY RUN BASIN .................. 208
xiv
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LIST OF TABLES
(Continued)
Page
55. TRACE METALS IN GROUNDWATER NEAR CHERRY RUN 209
56. SURFACE WATER ANALYSES FOR CHERRY RUN BASIN-
PART 3: NUTRIENTS AND SOLIDS 210
57. SURFACE WATER QUALITY IN WEST TRIBUTARY TO WIER'S
RUN—SOLUBILITY OF IRON, MANGANESE, AND CALCIUM 211
58. SURFACE WATER ANALYSES FOR WIER'S RUN--
PART 1: SOLUBILITY CONTROLLING SPECIES 212
59. SURFACE WATER ANALYSES FOR WIER'S RUN-
PART 2: TOXIC MATERIALS 213
60. SEDIMENT ANALYSES FOR WIER'S RUN 214
61. SEDIMENT GRANULOMETRY FOR WIER'S RUN 215
62. SURFACE WATER ANALYSES FOR WIER'S RUN--
PART 3: NUTRIENTS AND SOLIDS 216
63. SURFACE WATER ANALYSES FOR COMMON RAVINE/SECOND RAVINE—
PART 1: SOLUBILITY CONTROLS 217
64. SURFACE WATER ANALYSES FOR COMMON RAVINE/SECOND RAVINE-
PART 2: TOXIC MATERIALS 218
65. SURFACE WATER ANALYSES FOR COMMON RAVINE/SECOND RAVINE—
PART 3: NUTRIENTS AND SOLIDS 219
66. SURFACE WATER ANALYSES FOR TWO LICK CREEK--
PART 1: SOLUBILITY CONTROLS 220
67. SURFACE WATER ANALYSES FOR TWO LICK CREEK-
PART 2: TOXIC MATERIALS 221
68. SEDIMENT ANALYSES—TWO LICK CREEK 221
69. SEDIMENT GRANULOMETRY—TWO LICK CREEK 222
70. SURFACE WATER ANALYSES FOR TWO LICK CREEK-
PART 3: NUTRIENTS AND SOLIDS 222
71. AQUATIC BIOTA SAMPLING STATIONS .227
72. DIATOM SPECIES AND STANDING CROPS COLLECTED
FROM CHERRY RUN, DECEMBER 13-17, 1976 231
XV
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LIST OF TABLES
(Continued)
73. DIATOM SPECIES AND STANDING CROPS COLLECTED FROM
CHERRY RUN, APRIL 11-15, 1977 232
74. DIATOM SPECIES AND STANDING CROPS COLLECTED FROM THREE
TRIBUTARY STREAMS IN THE VICINITY OF THE HOMER CITY POWER
COMPLEX PROPOSED REFUSE AREA, DECEMBER 13-17, 1976 233
75. DIATOM SPECIES AND STANDING CROPS COLLECTED FROM THREE
TRIBUTARY STREAMS IN THE VICINITY OF THE HOMER CITY POWER
COMPLEX PROPOSED REFUSE AREA, DECEMBER 13-17, 1976 234
76. DIATOM SPECIES AND STANDING CROPS COLLECTED FROM
WIER'S RUN, DECEMBER 13-17, 1976 235
77. DIATOM SPECIES AND STANDING CROPS COLLECTED FROM
WIER'S RUN, APRIL 11-15, 1977 236
78. DIATOM SPECIES AND STANDING CROPS COLLECTED FROk THREE
TRIBUTARY STREAMS IN THE VICINITY OF THE HOMER CITY
POWER COMPLEX, DECEMBER 13-17, 1976 237
79. DIATOM SPECIES AND STANDING CROPS COLLECTED FROM THREE
TRIBUTARY STREAMS IN THE VICINITY OF THE HOMER CITY
POWER COMPLEX, APRIL 11-15, 1977 238
80. DIATOM SPECIES AND STANDING CROPS COLLECTED FROM TWO
LICK CREEK AND RAMSEY RUN, DECEMBER 13-17, 1976 239
81. DIATOM SPECIES AND STANDING CROPS COLLECTED FROM TWO
LICK CREEK AND RAMSEY RUN, APRIL 11-15, 1977 240
82. BENTHIC MACROINVERTEBRATES COLLECTED WITH A SURBER SAMPLER
FROM STREAMS IN THE AREA OF THE HOMER CITY POWER COMPLEX,
DECEMBER 13-17, 1976 241
83 BENTHIC MACROINVERTEBRATES COLLECTED WITH A SURBER SAMPLER
FROM STREAMS IN THE AREA OF THE HOMER CITY POWER COMPLEX,
APRIL 11-15, 1977 2A4
84. FISH SPECIES SURVEYED AND COLLECTED FROM STREAM SITES IN THE
VICINITY OF THE HOMER CITY POWER COMPLEX, DECEMBER 13-17, 1976 . . 248
85. FISH SPECIES SURVEYED AND COLLECTED FROM STREAM SITES IN THE
VICINITY OF THE HOMER CITY POWER COMPLEX, APRIL 11-15, 1977 .... 249
86. CONCENTRATIONS OF FOUR HEAVY METALS IN FISH TISSUE SAMPLES
FROM CHERRY RUN AND WIER'S RUN, APRIL 11-15, 1977 250
87 FISH SPECIES COLLECTED FROM STREAMS IN THE AREA
OF THE HOMER CITY POWER COMPLEX 252
xvi
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LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS
BOD biological oxygen demand
cfs fubic feet per second
COD chemical oxygen demand
DO dissolved oxygen
EPA U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
EPC estimated permissible concentration
gpd gallons per day
gpm gallons per minute
IERL Industrial Environmental Research Laboratory
MAP moisture- and ash-free
MATE minimum acute toxicity effluent
MEG multimedia environmental goals
MESA Mining Enforcement and Safety Administration
NPDES National Pollution Discharge Elimination Systems
PennDER Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Resources
PTMTP U.S. EPA's Multiple Point Source Model
ROM run-of-mine
RTP Research Triangle Park
TDS total dissolved solids
TKN total Kjeldahl nitrogen
TOC total organic carbon
TOS total organic sulfur
TP total particulates
XVII
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INTRODUCTION
Battelle's Columbus Laboratories has contracted with the U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) to perform a comprehensive envi-
ronmental assessment of physical and chemical coal cleaning processes.
The broad goal of this program (Contract No. 68-02-2163) is to establish
a strong base of engineering, ecological, pollution control, and cost
data which can be used to determine those coal cleaning processes that
are most acceptable from the technological, environmental, and economic
viewpoints. The analysis of methods for reducing overall environmental
pollution through the use of cleaned coal involves mathematical and
modeling techniques used for identification of optimum coal cleaning
process configurations, pollution control equipment, and waste manage-
ment techniques. These optimization studies require an assessment of
the pollution potential of coal cleaning processes, associated facil-
ities, and—in certain cases—the end uses of coal.
In order to obtain the field data necessary for the overall program,
Battelle initiated a sampling and analysis program designed to identify
the combinations of coal cleaning processes and environmental conditions
which are most effective in reducing the total impact of coal use on the
environment. This was accomplished through the characterization of
process and effluent streams from a variety of coal cleaning facilities
and their associated coal transportation, storage, and refuse disposal
areas.
The recent construction of an advanced coal cleaning facility at a
power complex near Homer City, Pennsylvania, provided a unique opportu-
nity to obtain environmental data before operation of the facility for
potential comparison with similar data to be obtained after operation
begins. Battelle conducted a series of preoperational, multimedia,
grab-sampling campaigns in a study area which included this facility, in
order to document the abundance or concentrations of selected key param-
eters. These data were used to evaluate the air, water, and biological
quality in the study area. The preoperational environmental studies,
although not sufficiently long-term to be a true baseline analysis, were
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conducted prior to operation of the cleaning plant as a reference point
for future comparisons. Additionally, an engineering-oriented eval-
uation of the planned refuse disposal system for the facility was
accomplished. The methods and results of these studies together with
preliminary interpretations are presented in subsequent chapters.
Description of the Study Area
Battelle's environmental monitoring was conducted within a study
area that can be approximately bounded by a circle 4 miles (6.4 km) in
diameter. The advanced coal cleaning plant in the center of the study
area is about 2 miles (3.2 km) southwest of Homer City, Pennsylvania.
Two of the aquatic biota sampling stations were slightly outside of the
circular study area.
The six major habitat types within the study area are hardwood
forest, coniferous forest, cropland, grassland, water bodies, and areas
of industrial development. The forest areas are primarily hardwoods,
dominated by oak and hickory. Isolated pockets of pine are present as
plantations rather than naturally occurring species. Cropland is ex-
tensive in the study area, including contour and strip-cropped fields of
corn, wheat, and hay. Grasslands include those areas that are presently
grazed and those areas that were previously grazed or farmed and are now
in a transition stage toward becoming a forest.
Stream water quality evaluated within the study area is affected by
a number of land uses which are either included in the immediate study
area or take place at locations farther upstream. The five major land
uses affecting stream water are: agriculture, mining, urbanization,
construction, and power generation. Agricultural runoff is a problem
because of the hilly terrain and includes runoff from both farmland and
pastures. Many upstream watersheds add acid mine drainage from aban-
doned or active strip mines. Almost the entire study area is on top of
deep mines. As indicated earlier, Homer City, Pennsylvania, is imme-
diately adjacent to the study area on the northeast, and Indiana,
Pennsylvania, is only 5 miles (8.0 km) north of Homer City. Both towns
-------
directly or indirectly add effluents from industrial and sewage treat-
ment facilities to Two Lick Creek before it flows through the study
area. During Battelle's sampling campaigns, both the coal cleaning plant
and the refuse disposal area for that facility were under construction
in the study area. Finally, the study area includes the Homer City
Power Station, with its associated coal storage, water treatment, and
waste disposal facilities.
The Homer City Station is one part of an integrated power complex
which includes t.jo deep coal mines; coal cleaning, storage, and
transport facilities; power generation facilities; and waste disposal
and treatment facilities (Figure 1). Some coal used at the Homer City
Station comes from the two dedicated deep mines in the power complex;
other coal is hauled by truck from other mines. Solid refuse from power
complex activities is deposited in three different types of disposal
areas, including an ash disposal area, mine waste or "boney" piles, and
the cleaning plant refuse disposal area. Liquid waste treatment facil-
ities in the power complex include: mine and boney pile leachate water
treatment facilities, an emergency holding pond constructed near the
coal cleaning plant, coal storage pile runoff desilting ponds, an
industrial waste treatment plant, power plant storm runoff desilting
ponds, bottom ash sluice water desilting ponds, sewage treatment
facilities, and ash disposal area leachate treatment ponds.
Data Comparison with MEG Values;
Preoperational monitoring data from Battelle's study area near Homer
City, Pennsylvania, are compared with the values listed in the Multi-
media Environmental Goals (MEG) documents prepared for the U.S. EPA by
Research Triangle Institute (Cleland and Kingsbury, 1977a and b). MEG
values represent the maximum levels of significant contaminants which
are not considered to be hazardous to man or the environment. The MEG
methodology was developed to facilitate the evaluation and ranking of
pollutants for the purpose of environmental assessment of energy-
related processes.
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— Ash Disposal Area
— Mine Drainage Treatment Pond
C - Helvetia Boney Pile (at mine)
D - Coal Cleaning Rant
- Coal Storage Pile
— Power Plant
G - Industrial Watte Treatment Plant
H - Helen Boney Pile (at mine)
Coal Cleaning ^\
Refute Disposal '
Area
Kilometer
0 0.5
FIGURE 1. MAP OF THE HOMER CITY POWER COMPLEX
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MEG values have been estimated for 216 pollutants by extrapolating
various toxicity data by means of simple models. For most of these
pollutants, maximum values have been estimated for each of the three
media (air, water, and land). For each of the three media, separate
maximum values have been estimated which are not considered to be
hazardous to (1) human health and (2) entire ecosystems.
The MEG values that are particularly appropriate for comparison with
the environmental monitoring data from Battelle's study area are those
designated as estimated permissible concentrations (EPC's). EPC's are
the maximum concentration of a pollutant which presents no hazard to man
or biota on a continuous long-term basis. These EPC values are consid-
ered acceptable in the ambient air, water, or soil, and do not apply to
undiluted effluent streams. The ambient application of EPC's cor-
responds to the ambient type of sampling conducted by Battelle prior to
operation of the Homer City Coal Cleaning Plant.
A second type of MEG values considered in this study are those
designated as minimum acute toxicity effluent (MATE) values. MATE's are
concentrations of pollutants in undiluted effluent streams which will
not adversely affect those persons or ecological systems exposed for
short time periods. Very little of the preoperational monitoring con-
ducted by Battelle near Homer City involved undiluted effluents, but in
the case of a few pollutants, this value was the only MEG value avail-
able for comparison with Battelle's data.
Environmental Components Sampled
During the period from December, 1976, through April, 1977, a series
of three preoperational grab-sampling campaigns were conducted by
Battelle in the ambient media of the study area which included the Homer
City Power Complex. These environmental monitoring studies involved
sampling, laboratory analysis, and/or evaluation of the following com-
ponents of the environment.
-------
• Fugitive dust
• Stream water and sediments
• Aquatic biota
• Terrestrial biota
• Raw coal and fly ash
• Cleaning plant refuse disposal area
• Groundwater.
Only the first three were analyzed in sufficient detail to warrant com-
parison with MEG values. Samples of fugitive dust, water, and stream
sediments were collected during three campaigns and analyzed for phys-
ical and chemical parameters. Aquatic biota were sampled during two
campaigns for determination of indicator species, standing crop, species
diversity, and chemical analysis of fish.
-------
CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
Environmental Quality Prior to Cleaning Plant Operation
The terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems in the vicinity of the Homer
City Coal Cleaning Plant reflected varying degrees of environmental
stress. The aquatic ecosystems showed the greatest impact. Some of the
streams in tho area were inhabited by small populations of a few
tolerant species. The air quality on the plant site was poor,
containing high levels of particulate matter.
The terrestrial flora within 1 mile (1.8 km) of the cleaning plant
were quite diverse and supported animals common to all successional
stages, especially those wildlife species associated with the early
successional vegetation. The area did not contain good water bird
habitat. The continuing accumulation of particulate matter in a 1-mile
(1.8 km) radius is expected to cause an environmental stress. Ad-
ditional studies are necessary to make a detailed evaluation of impacts
on the terrestrial biota.
The aquatic sampling and reconnaissance program studied a total of
14 sites in 8 streams. Stream quality was evaluated as good to poor.
For example, the tributary north of the refuse area, now under con-
struction, had good overall biological quality. Similarly, the upstream
portion of the tributary south of the refuse area was judged to be of
good quality.
Cherry Run was evaluated as having fair biological quality based on
the number of species of fish inhabiting this stream. However, the
quality of the biological community inhabiting Cherry Run has been
affected by both plant and mining operations in the area. Small
populations of benthic macroinvertebrates and fishes were clearly
a result of the reduced water quality.
The remaining streams, Wier's Run, Rager's Pond tributary, Common
Ravine, and the downstream portion of the tributary south of the refuse
disposal area were all considered to have poor biological quality. In
all cases poor water quality was due to aqueous releases to the
-------
environment from the existing facility. Two Lick Creek was not rated
because of the small number of biological samples collected in this
study.
The quality of groundwater in the area was reported to be marginal
to poor and unfit for consumption.
The water of the streams that drain the power plant site was of
marginal quality. Within a short distance downstream, however, con-
ditions improved due to the buffering capability and dilution.
The stream sediments of the area were heavily laden with metals.
The streams have high levels of dissolved oxygen; however, periodic low
pH levels and high suspended solids prevent recovery of a high quality
biological community. Oil sheens were present during all sampling
periods conducted in the Common Ravine area. As expected in a coal
region lithology, the streams had high levels of forms of iron,
manganese, sulfur, and calcium.
Air samples collected near the coal cleaning plant contained a wide
range of particulate loadings. The heaviest mass loadings were measured
at 200 meters downwind of the existing coal pile. At 2000 meters down-
wind the measured levels dropped to levels consistent with a good air
quality index.
The stations within 1000 meters of the site had a distinct diurnal
loading phase. In the daytime the mass weights were 50 percent higher
than the contiguous nighttime values. Obvious and significant impacts
were found to extend about 1200 meters downwind. The snow cover
assisted in determining the fugitive dust impact area. The average of
the coal particle sizes at all stations was measured to be between 2 to
70 microns in diameter. The average ash size at all stations was in the
5 to 20 micron range. Coal was the predominant material deposited on
the high-volume (hi-vol) and "Andersen" filters.
Trace element concentrations were not directly related to variance
in mass weights. The average trace element concentrations were higher
at 12-hour sampling sites than at the 24-hour sampling sites and were
generally 500 meters downwind of the coal cleaning plant site. South-
west winds prevailed at the site for 70 percent of the time during
8
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the three sampling campaigns. These southwest winds generated the high-
est levels of particulate loadings. The lowest fugitive dust values
were recorded under a northwest wind.
To support the fugitive dust monitoring activity, a multiple source
fugitive dust dispersion model was developed. The model was field
calibrated to the sampling results and source conditions at the Homer
City Coal Cleaning Plant. It is probable that this model will continue
to function well at other coal handling and storage facilities. This
model can be used to select the optimum air sampling receptor locations
in addition to predicting dispersion levels with distance and
meterologic conditions.
Results of the fugitive dust chemical analysis revealed two major
and interesting phenomena. First, there was uncombusted coal dust at
200 meters downwind of the coal cleaning plant site that contained
higher levels of lead, cadmium, arsenic, and mercury than were present
in the whole coal analysis. Cadmium and lead values were several orders
of magnitude higher than corresponding values from the whole coal
analysis. Beryllium and vanadium were not found in the coal dust, but
were quite evident in the source coals. Second, a differential and
preferential particle magnification was most likely occurring. This may
be because the ROM Upper Freeport coals have a greater percent of
some trace metals available for wind transport on their exposed surface
cleavage planes than the percentage of these metals present in the
entire chunk of coal.
The proposed design of the refuse disposal facility covers most of
the important potential environmental problems in coal refuse dis-
posal, such as slope stability, erosion, and leachate control. It is a
problem, however, that the actual construction as it existed in the
field on April 21, 1977, may not completely control the migration of the
heavy metal laden leachate. This was principally due to the intersec-
tion of the main leachate collection line with an unconsolidated
sandstone saddle bench that surfaces on the site. Another problem with
the site was the construction of a storm drain trunk line at a lower
vertical displacement than the leachate collection pond in the first
-------
lift area. This may permit the surface runoff leachates to bypass the
leachate collection pond and treatment system.
Pollutant Toxicity Considerations and MEG Value Comparisons
Several factors confounding pollutant toxicity evaluations need to
be considered when comparisons are made between estimated permissible
concentration (EPC) values and field data on pollutant concentrations
and biological quality. First, the EPC values have not incorporated
interactive effects of pollutant combinations, such as synergism or
antagonism. (Antagonistic effects between pollutants measured in stream
water and sediments may explain how some EPC's for ecology were exceeded
in streams that had a good biological quality rating.) Second, EPC's and
field chemical data frequently involve only total elemental concentra-
tions. Biota in the ambient environment, however, may be adversely
affected only by specific compounds or ions of an element that are
relatively stable in the ambient media and not by other compounds that
are included in the total elemental concentration. To date, EPC values
for inorganics have been determined primarily for groups of compounds
which have a common parent element; comparatively few of the individual,
highly toxic compounds within these groups that are also relatively
stable in the environment have been evaluated for an EPC. Third, some of
the water quality parameters which are extremely important in making an
environmental assessment of coal-related effluents on aquatic biota do
not presently have EPC's. These master parameters, including suspended
solids, pH, alkalinity, etc., are planned for future EPC evaluation.
Fugitive Dust and the Terrestrial Environment
Elemental concentrations in fugitive dust which were measured in the
study area exceeded both EPC and MATE values for air and soil quality.
For example, three out of fifteen elements analyzed in fugitive dust had
concentrations above the health-based EPC's for air quality. Comparisons
with ecology-based EPC's for air quality, however, were very difficult
because of the absence of ten EPC values.
10
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Although no soil concentrations were determined, comparisons of
elemental concentrations in fugitive dust were made with ecology-based
EPC's for soil because of the potential problem of toxic elements leach-
ing into the soil from fugitive dust laying on the ground. Eleven of the
fifteen elements studied had concentrations in the fugitive dust which
were above the ecology-based EPC's for soil. Thus, additional research
needs to be conducted to determine if leaching is a problem. The ex-
istence of this type of problem, however, seems to be inconsistent with
the condition of the vegetation in the area. In spite of the dust
(particularly coal dust) present on the ground for some distance around
the coal pile, the vegetation has not yet begun to show any obvious
adverse effects.
Several recommendations can be made based on this study. First, more
field experiments are needed to validate these results. The amount of
available data is small and more extensive sampling and elemental anal-
ysis, particularly of soil and plant and animal tissues, are needed.
These steps are necessary to determine the fate of the trace metals in
the fugitive dust.
Stream Water, Sediments, and Aquatic Biota
Of the thirty water quality parameters measured in streams, only
fifteen parameters have associated MEG values. Thus, some of the surface
watar quality data were compared with the MEG's and some were compared
with other available criteria. .The maximum and minimum of ten param-
eters exceeded the corresponding EPC's for the environment. In fact,
maximum, and some minimum levels, of four pollutants (ammonia, vanadium,
manganese, and zinc) exceeded the appropriate EPC values, even in
streams considered to have good biological quality. This apparent
discrepancy needs to be further evaluated both in terms of the validity
of the proposed EPC values used, and in terms of the interactions and
uniqueness of the chemical and biological conditions encountered in the
study area streams.
Fifteen water quality parameters evaluated in Battelle's study do
not have corresponding MEG values; these parameters were compared with
11
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criteria from U.S. EPA (1976) and McKee and Wolf (1963). Values for
four of these parameters (pH, suspended solids, dissolved iron, and
total organic carbon) were in close agreement with the biota quality
evaluation. The three groups of aquatic biota used in the subjective
evaluation of stream quality were periphyton, benthic macroinver-
tebrates, and fish.
Elemental concentrations in stream sediments were considerably
higher than the corresponding MEG values. Maximum and minimum con-
centrations of eight elements in sediments exceeded the associated EPC's
and MATE's for ecology. This situation occurred for seven elements,
even in a stream with good biological quality. Again, the field situa-
tion and proposed EPC values need to be evaluated in more detail to
determine if a discrepancy exists.
Future Studies Recommended
Additional research needs to be conducted on EPC and MATE values
before they can be used to evaluate and rank pollutants for the purpose
of environmental assessment. Much of this work was recommended in the
initial MEG document (Cleland and Kingsbury, 1977a) and is now or will
soon be in progress. For example, MEG's need to be related to the
specific compounds or ionic forms of an element which are most toxic,
rather than having a single value represent all compounds and ions which
have a common "parent" element. Synergistic and antagonistic effects
need to be considered because they may drastically change the hazard
ranking of a pollutant in a specific situation. MEG's are also needed
for many of the master parameters, such as the "totals" identified by
Cleland and Kingsbury (1977a: 155) (e.g., total particulates) or the
water quality parameters identified in this study (e.g., pH, suspended
solids, dissolved iron, and total organic carbon).
In another vein, the comparison of trace element concentrations in
fugitive dust to MEG values points out the need for laboratory and field
research, particularly in relation to fugitive dust that consists pre-
dominantly of coal particles. First, the rates at which toxic elements
12
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leach from coal dust into a variety of soil types need to be explored.
Second, the concentrations of toxic elements present in the soil around
a large, open coal pile need to be determined when this pile has been in
existence for a long period of time. Third, laboratory bioassay and
long-term field studies need to be conducted on the effects of coal dust
on plants and animals.
It is important that the type of research necessary to improve and
expand the initial MEG approach to environmental assessment be completed
soon. Once the MEG methodology has been refined it will become an
essential part of any assessment of environmental pollution.
13
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TERRESTRIAL ENVIRONMENT
Fugitive Dust Monitoring
Potential fugitive dust sources at the Homer City power complex were
investigated during a presampling site evaluation. Some of the dust
sources included an ash disposal area, boney piles at both deep mines, a
coal storage pile, road dust, three power plant stacks, and
construction-generated dust. The coal cleaning plant with its thermal
dryers and the cleaning plant refuse disposal area were under construc-
tion during Battelle's sampling campaigns. Because these two areas were
considered to be future potential sources of fugitive dust, they were
considered in the selection of sampling sites.
The fugitive dust data were collected and analyzed for comparison
with MEG values. The samples collected during three campaigns were
analyzed for both physical and chemical parameters. Information from
the survey of terrestrial biota conducted during one campaign was
utilized, as later described, in attempts to confirm the results of MEG
comparisons.
Fugitive dust monitoring was conducted using high-volume (hi-vol)
ambient air samplers during the following three 48-hour sampling
periods:
• Campaign I: 8 p.m. December 17 to 8 p.m. December 19, 1976
• Campaign II: 8 p.m. January 5 to 8 p.m. January 7, 1977
• Campaign III: 8 p.m. April 5 to 8 p.m. April 7, 1977.
The first of these three campaigns was conducted over a weekend when
both coal transfer and construction activities were at a low level.
A multiple-source fugitive-dust dispersion model was used to select
and verify locations for hi-vol samplers (Figure 2). This model takes
into account such factors as wind speed, emission rate, particle size,
and distance from selected potential dust sources located within the
Homer City power complex. No dust sources outside of the power complex
were incorporated in the model. On the basis of the computer-generated
diffusion-modeling results, ten monitoring sites were established at
14
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Coal Cleaning
Refuse Disposal
Existing Ash
Disposal Area
Wind Speed and Direction
Recorder
5) Hi Vol. Sampler
0
fee
0.5
1.0
Kilometer
Mile
1/2
FIGURE 2. LOCATION OF FUGITIVE DUST SOURCES AND MONITORING SITES
15
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distances of 175 to 2200 m downwind from various local dust sources.
One of the ten sites was on private property downwind of the power
complex property and one site was on private property upwind of the
complex.
Several potential dust sources, both local and regional, were not
incorporated into the diffusion model for sampling site selection. Dust
generated by vehicular traffic, parking lots, construction activities,
several storage silos, and especially the dusty surface of the plant
grounds was not included in the model due to its erratic and non-point-
source nature. Data for the Homer City power plant stack emissions were
not available in time to include in the model. In addition, four other
major power stations (Keystone, Conemaugh, Seward, and Shawville) are
located in the same Chestnut Ridge sector of the Allegheny Mountains as
Homer City. These utilities are fed from coal mines located either
directly under or near the station sites. The model did not include
fugitive emission data from any of these facilities.
In order to identify the type and quantity of pollutants being
emitted from fugitive dust sources, a variety of analytical techniques
was employed. Particulate mass was determined by weighing the 8 x 10-
inch fiberglass filters used in the hi-vol samplers before and after
each of the 12- or 24-hour sampling periods. A microscopic analysis was
made of particulates to provide a distinction between components such as
coal dust, fly ash, pollen, or construction dust. An Andersen sampling
head was used at only one of the ten hi-vol sampling sites to obtain
data on the distribution of particles in five size fractions.
Particulates on the filters from the hi-vol samplers were analyzed
for up to 22 elements. The analytical technique used for most elements
was atomic absorption; but neutron activation, colorimetry, a specific
ion meter, a total organic carbon analyzer, an LDC mercury monitor, and
potentiometric titration were also used. Because large amounts of four
of these 22 elements (Na, K, Ca, and Mg) were found in the blank
filters, the values for these four elements were not reported. Four of
the remaining 18 elements (Sb, Ti, V, Se) were analyzed only in the
second or third campaign. In general, the filter exhibiting the highest
16
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percentage of coal or ash from each site was used for analysis. Data
from 15 of the elements analyzed are used in the analysis and sub-
sequent comparisons. Details of the field study are given in
Appendix A.
Fugitive Dust Field Study Results
Battelle objectives in this field study were to identify the type
and quantity of pollutants being emitted from fugitive dust sources
associated with the power generator at the location of the future Homer
City Coal Cleaning Facility. Detailed procedures, models, analysis
techniques, and results are given in Appendix A. The following con-
clusions were drawn from these analyses of the field studies.
(1) The ash disposal area was not a principal source of fugi-
tive dust during these sampling campaigns, probably because
moisture in the ash prevented wind entrainment of ash
particles.
(2) The coal storage pile was the primary source of coal dust and
trace metal emissions during these sampling campaigns.
(3) Maximum concentrations of fugitive dusts were observed within
200 meters of the coal storage pile.
(4) Site 6, which is generally upwind of the plant site, was used
as a background site. Total mass concentration observed at
this site averaged 44 yg/m^, the maximum concentration was 76
yg/m3, and the minimum was 33 yg/m^.
(5) Sites 9 and 10, which are generally downwind from the fugitive
dust sources, were used to assess the impact of fugitive dust
emissions leaving Homer City Power Station property. The
maximum 24-hour concentrations were 45 and 82 yg/m^,
respectively, and the average concentrations were 40 and 51
Ug/m-J, respectively. The data suggest that the impact of
fugitive dust to the surrounding ambient air quality off the
property is not significant.
17
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(6) Trace metals were measured in the coal and the disposed ash at
the Homer City facility as well as the particulate matter on
selected hi-vol filter pads. There is an apparent large
magnification of trace metal concentrations above the
availability levels in either coal or disposed ash. Although
mass concentrations were not elevated at the off-site Stations
9 and 10, trace metal magnification was apparent for these
stations. For example, the average concentration of the trace
metal cadmium for the three campaigns was 31 ppm* and 11 ppm at
Sites 1 and 3**, respectively, while the average concentration
was 206 ppm and 137 ppm at Sites 9 and 10, respectively.
(7) The primary air quality standards for particulate matter (75
yg/m3) were exceeded during only one of the three sampling
campaigns (January 5-6, 1977) at two monitoring sites which
were located outside of the property line of Homer City Power
Station. The upwind location measured 76 yg/m3 of
particulates and the downwind location measured 82 yg/m3 of
particulates.
Terrestrial Biota Survey
Brief, reconnaissance-type surveys of terrestrial biota were con-
ducted on December 15 and 16, 1976, and during the week of April 11-15,
1977, in order to prepare a general description of selected ecosystem
components as they existed prior to operation of the Homer City Coal
Cleaning Facility and to provide a qualitative description for testing
of MEG/MATE comparisons. The preoperational description of vegetation
and wildlife will permit future comparisons with results of similar
surveys made during the same seasons after the cleaning plant begins
*ppm is the concentration of Cd in the particulate matter captured on
the filter pad.
**Sites 1 and 3 were located within 200 meters downwind of the coal
storage pile.
18
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operation. Surveys which included field observations within a 2-mile
(3.6-km) radius of the cleaning plant were made in December, 1976, and
April, 1977. Both surveys involved the listing of habitat types and
plant and wildlife species, but quantitative listing of all species was
not possible in view of the limited time periods and seasons when
surveys were possible. Scientific names of the biota observed are given
in Appendix B.
Dominant vegetation species within a 1-mile (1.8-km) radius of the
coal cleaning facility were plotted on topographic maps (see Figure 3).
A subjective assessment of the plant species encountered most frequently
and an assessment of the relative sizes of the plants observed provided
the criteria used as the basis for determining the dominant vegetation.
In addition, all habitats within a 1- and 2-mile (1.8- and 3.6-km)
radius of the cleaning facility were identified.
Vegetation
Geographically, the Homer City Coal Cleaning Facility lies within
the Mixed Mesophytic Forest Region, which encompasses a region from
northern Alabama to northwestern Pennsylvania. More specifically, the
Homer City area lies within the Low Hills Belt of the Cumberland and
Allegheny Plateaus (Braun, 1972). It is an area typified by low relief
and relatively gentle slopes. Extensive cutting in this entire region
has resulted in a pronounced increase in the upper slope forest types of
oak and oak-hickory, which prevail today. The mixed mesophytic forest
type, which dominates this area, is typically composed exclusively of
hardwood. However, the Homer City area lies in close proximity to the
Hemlock-White Pine-Northern Hardwood Forest Region of northern
Pennsylvania and southern New York, and thus some pine and hemlock exist
naturally, in addition to large areas of various coniferous species
which have been planted in this region.
The terrestrial vegetation within 2 miles (3.6 km) of the coal
cleaning facility has been mapped as hardwood forest, coniferous forest,
19
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KILOMETER
0 .5 1
JjABITAT TYPES
|^HARDWOOD FOREST
31 COM FERGUS FOREST
[3 CROPLAND
^GRASSLAND
J WATER BODY
| INDUSTRIAL DEVELOPMENT
DOMINANT SPECIES
1 APPLE TREES
GRASS
2 NORWAY SPRUCE
SCOTCH PINE
\
3 NORWAY SPRUCE
SCOTCH PINE
RED SPRUCE
4 RED MAPLE
5 RED MAPLE
BLACK CHERRY
6 BLACK LOCUST
BLACK CHERRY
7 GRASS
BLACKBERRY
BLACK CHERRY
8 GRASS
BLACK RASPBERRY
9 GRASS
WEEDS
10 STAG HORN SUMAC
BLACKBERRY
11 BLACK CHERRY
YELLOW-POPLAR
12 RED MAPLE
NORTHERN RED OAK
YELLOW-POPLAR
13 BLACK LOCUST
14 WHITE OAK
BLACK OAK
1 5 PLOWED CORN FIELD
16 STAGHORN SUMAC
DOGWOOD
HAWTHORN
1 7 NORTHERN RED OAK
WHITE OAK
18 WHITE OAK
BLACK CHERRY
1 9 HEEDS
HAWTHORN
DOGWOOD
20 BLACK CHERRY
SCARLET OAK
21 BIGTOOTH ASPEN
HAWTHORN
22 WEEDS
BLACKBERRY
23 BLACK CHERRY
SYCAMORE
24 HAWTHORN
25 RED PINE
SCOTCH PINE
26 WEEDS
BLACK CHERRY
27 RED MAPLE
WHITE OAK
28 AMERICAN BEECH
29 BIGTOOTH ASPEN
RED MAPLE
30 RED MAPLE
NORTHERN RED OAK
BIGTOOTH ASPEN
31 DEVIL 5 CLUB
GRASS
32 CRABAPPLE
RED MAPLE
BLACK LOCUST
33 RED OAK
BLACK CHERRY
34 WHITE OAK
SHAGEARK HICKORY
35 SCOTCH PINE
36 RED OAK
SHAGBARK HICKORY
37 HAWTHORN
j RED MAPLE
j
: 38 HEMLOCK
NORWAY SPRUCE
WHITE PINE
39 BLACK CHERRY
j 4C VIRGINIA PINE
j <1 SHINGLE OAK
FIGURE 3. VEGETATION TYPES IN THE VICINITY OF THE HOMER CITY COAL CLEANING PLANT
-------
cultivated land, or grassland (see Figure 3). Tree species observed
within this 2-mile radius are listed in Appendix B.
Cultivated lands are those currently being utilized for agricul-
tural crops. Corn, wheat, and hay are the dominant crops under
cultivation. Agricultural practices in the region include strip-
cropping and contour plowing to minimize the erosion problems created by
the hilly topography. Much of the region is too hilly for any
agricultural use other than grazing.
Grassland areas include those areas currently being used for
pastureland as well as those that had been grazed or farmed in the past
ten to fifteen years and are now in a transition state from pure
grassland to forest, with species of both types being common.
Wildlife Observations
General observations of four wildlife groups were made in conjunc-
tion with other biotic surveys conducted in December, 1976, and April,
1977. Notes were taken on all mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians
observed during conduct of the other surveys. However, no quantitative
transect or plot data were obtained. December observations were con-
centrated around the existing ash disposal area and the cleaning plant
refuse disposal area; April observations were made primarily along
streams or ponds. Emphasis in April was on terrestrial wildlife closely
associated with the streams or ponds, because the primary ecological
effects are expected to appear in the aquatic system. Most of the
reptile and amphibian observations were made in connection with the fish
seining and stocking surveys in the smaller streams. List of species
and observation notes are in Appendix B.
Mammals. Seven species of mammals were observed around the Homer
City power complex. Both the white-tailed deer and the raccoon appeared
to be abundant, judging from the number of tracks found in most areas
around the complex. The Virginia opossum, eastern cottontail, gray
21
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squirrel, and woodchuck were relatively common. The muskrat, however,
was surprisingly rare for the number of streams and ponds in the area.
Birds. Eighteen species of birds were observed during a
reconnaissance around the ash disposal area and the cleaning facility
refuse disposal area on the afternoons of December 15 and 16, 1976. The
black-capped chickadee, tufted titmouse, white-breasted nuthatch, and
tree sparrow were relatively abundant around the ash disposal area;
while the black-capped chickadee, cardinal, and American goldfinch were
relatively abundant around the refuse disposal area. Birds observed
included both permanent (year-long) residents and winter residents.
Bird observations during April 11-15, 1976, were restricted to water
birds seen at streams or ponds in the vicinity of the power complex.
The only water birds observed were five mallards and one pied-billed
grebe. This number of species and individuals is below that expected
for streams and ponds in that part of Pennsylvania during April (Todd,
1940). The absence of marshes with emergent vegetation is probably one
important reason for the limited number of water birds in the area. On
the other hand, additional surveys in early spring or fall would
undoubtedly have resulted in the observation of a greater number of
migratory waterfowl.
Reptiles and Amphibians. Five species of reptiles and amphibians
were recorded in or along the streams or ponds during the April field
trip. The northern two-lined salamander was the most abundant of these
five species, but only eight individuals were recorded. Seven two-lined
salamanders were captured at seven fish survey sites on Cherry Run and
its tributaries. One two-lined salamander was captured at one of four
sites on Weir's Run and its tributary. No salamanders were observed at
one site each on the Rager's Pond and Common Ravine tributaries and at
the one survey site on Ramsey Run. The other four reptiles and
amphibians observed were the American toad, green frog, wood turtle, and
queen snake.
22
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Biological Field Study Interpretation
The following discussion and recommendations concerning the December
and April reconnaissances of terrestrial biota will be helpful in
referencing existing perturbations of the plants and wildlife prior to
the operation of the Homer City Coal Cleaning Facility. However, no
conclusions can be drawn about the environmental effects of the new
facility. Results of the terrestrial studies are intended only as a
reference point f r r use in future comparisons with more detailed surveys
conducted after operation of the coal cleaning plant begins. Surveys
during the other seasons of the year will also be essential in
evaluating the effects of the coal cleaning facility.
The vegetation map (Figure 3) shows that the area around the coal
cleaning facility is composed essentially of six habitat types, in-
cluding hardwood forest, coniferous forest, cropland, grassland, water
bodies, and areas of industrial development. The forested areas are
primarily hardwoods, dominated by oak and hickory trees. Isolated
pockets of pine are present as plantations rather than naturally occur-
ring species. Cropland also is extensive in the area, including con-
tour and strip-cropped fields of corn, wheat, and hay. Grasslands
include those areas which are presently grazed and those areas which
were previously grazed or farmed and are now in a transition stage
toward becoming a forest. Logging, mining, farming, grazing, and
industrial development have significantly altered the vegetation and
thus the habitats available to wildlife in the area. Each of these
perturbations has induced significant changes in the local fauna by
reducing the amount of mature forest and creating habitats that have
attracted wildlife species associated with early successional
vegetation.
Measurement and field observations on the extent of gaseous and
particulate pollution from coal storage, burning, and refuse disposal
(see the section on Fugitive Dust Monitoring) strongly suggest that the
biota, particularly the vegetation, in the immediate vicinity of the
power plant are being impacted by the power complex. Visual inspection
23
-------
of the vegetation during April, when deciduous trees still were without
leaves, did not indicate any obvious injury to the vegetation within a
1-mile radius of the cleaning facility. However, coal dust was observed
on vegetation and in leaf litter up to 1 mile from the coal pile. This
fugitive dust in combination with the particulate pollution from the
power plant may result in the biological accumulation, transfer, and/or
biomagnification of toxic elements associated with the coal and fly ash.
Chemical analysis of plant and animal tissue for toxic elements known to
occur in the coal used at Homer City is recommended to determine the
extent of the problem prior to the long-term changes in air pollution
expected to result from operation of the cleaning facility and burning
and storage of cleaned coal.
Only two species of water birds were observed during the entire week
of field surveys in April. Lack of marshy habitat necessary for feeding
and brood rearing may be a major reason that a greater number of species
was not observed. In addition, aquatic flora and fauna can be killed by
dilute concentrations of heavy metals (copper, lead, zinc, etc.)
(Spauling and Ogden, 1968). Because the water, sediment, and fish-
tissue analyses on samples taken from the streams around the power
complex showed the presence of heavy metals (see the sections on Water
Quality Determinations and Aquatic Biota Survey), it is possible that
some aquatic vegetation and some water bird species have been eliminated
from these streams owing to the uptake of toxic heavy metals. Waterfowl
habitat is often destroyed by pollution from both mining and industrial
operations by decreasing the ability of the water body to support veg-
etation and animal life upon which waterfowl feed. For example, acid
mine water has destroyed or seriously damaged more than 4,000 miles of
streams In the United States, primarily by destroying food organisms
(McCallum, 1964). Additional surveys during the migratory, nesting, and
brood rearing seasons are suggested to determine the current importance
to water birds of the streams and ponds around the Homer City power
complex.
Although the survey period in early April may have been too early
for sandpipers such as the spotted sandpiper (Actitis macularia) and too
late for some of the early migrating waterfowl, several birds common
24
-------
Co streams and ponds in western Pennsylvania were not observed. The
wood duck (Aix sponsa). great blue heron (Ardea herodias), and belted
kingfisher (Megaceryle alcyon) are three examples of birds commonly
associated with small water bodies in western Pennsylvania during early
April (Todd, 1940) which were not observed during the surveys around the
Homer City power complex.
Of the seven species of medium- and large-size mammals recorded
around the Homer City power complex, the muskrat was the least abundant.
This mammal is closely associated with water and is normally found along
the banks of even the smallest Pennsylvania streams (Doutt, et al.,
1973). Peak density of these furbearers depends on, among other
requirements, water purity and available food. Therefore, it is
possible that the low number of muskrats observed in the streams around
the Homer City power complex may be due, in part, to the polluted nature
of most of the streams and the lack of emergent aquatic vegetation.
Many of the smaller mammals (mice, shrews, voles, etc.) not surveyed
during this reconnaissance are likely to occur in the Homer City area
(Doutt, et al., 1973). These small mammals are often better indicators
of environmental stress than the medium- and large-size mammals because
of their large numbers and small home ranges. An intensive snap-
trapping program along delected transects is recommended to document
population changes and to obtain tissue samples for chemical analysis of
toxic trace elements found in the coal used at the Homer City power
complex.
Only five species of reptiles and amphibians were recorded in or
beside water bodies around the Homer City power complex. It was noted
that the streams and ponds had very little marshy habitat associated
with them and that the supply of aquatic insects, which serve as food
for many of the reptiles and amphibians found along or in streams, was
only moderate to low, except in the smallest tributaries. This lack of
a plentiful food supply and an appropriate marshy habitat probably
accounts for the reduced numbers of individuals and species of reptiles
and amphibians in this area. However, one species of reptile was found
along Cherry Run; this was the queen snake, which does not require a
25
-------
marshy habitat or aquatic insects. In fact, it is usually found along
small stony creeks, where it feeds principally on crayfish
(Conant, 1975). Cherry Run had both the stony habitat and crayfish this
snake requires.
Comparison of Analytical Data with MEG Values—
Terrestrial Environment
Analytical data for fugitive dust, fly ash, and raw coal sampled in
the study area have been converted to the units used in the Multimedia
Environmental Goals (MEG) study (Cleland and Kingsbury, 1977a and b).
These data are compared with the estimated permissible con-
centrations (EPC's) and/or the minimum acute toxicity effluent (MATE)
values.
Average concentrations of 15 elements analyzed in the fugitive dust
from the study area are compared with the EPC'c for air in Table 1.
Because most of the fugitive dust appeared to emanate from the coal
storage pile and decline in concentration within 200-300 m downwind
(Figure 4), the data have been averaged for the sampling sites located
between 150-175 m and 400-1800 m downwind from the coal pile. The fugi-
tive dust concentrations for the upwind "control" sampling location are
also provided. These field data are followed by the appropriate maximum
EPC's for air recommended for each element to prevent negative effects
to humans or the surrounding environment during continuous long-term
(chronic) exposure. A difficulty in making comparisons between observed
and recommended levels of the 15 elements shown in Table 1 is that three
EPC's for human health and 10 EPC's for the environment are not
available.
Average concentrations for three of the elements (As, Cr, and Pb)
analyzed in fugitive dust exceeded the EPC's for human health. These
values have been underlined in Table 1. It is noteworthy that two of
these elements (As and Cr) had concentrations above the health-based EPC
even at the upwind "control" location.
26
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N>
Future
Coal Refuse
Site
Primary
Ambient
Air Quality
Standard
(75yu.g/m3)
500
1000
Meters From Coal Storage Pile
1500
2000
FIGURE 4. FUGITIVE DUST CONCENTRATIONS COMPARED TO A TRANSECT OF THE AREA'S
TOPOGRAPHICAL RELIEF
-------
TABLE 1. COMPARISONS OF EPC VALUES FOR AIR WITH HOMER CITY FUGITIVE DUST DATA
00
Trace Element Concentrations, gg/m
As Cd Cr Cu Fe Pb Mn Hg Ni Ti Zn Cl
F V Se
Distance from ' y *
Coal Pile Average Concentration in Fugitive Dust During 3 Campaigns at Homer City (24-hr Sampling Periods)
Downwind 150-175 m(b> 0.014 0.008 0.026 0.292 3.45 0.586 0.076 0.00056 0.015 0.44 0.35C1' 1.97(l'
Downwind 400-1,800 m(c) 0.010 0.014 0.015 0.119 1.87 0.334 0.093 0.00009 0.013(1)0. 32(i) 0.22 0.82
L'pwind Control(d) 0.009 0.005 0.014 0.223 1.65 0.258 0.041 0.00003 0.009 0.17(1) 0.13 1.05
KPC Category Estimated Permissible Concentrations (EPC's) e , Mg/m
Health 0.005 0.12(f 'o.002(f 'o. 5 — (h) 0.35 12 16(f) 0.04tf)]4 9.5
(R) (K) C E )
Ecology. — 0.04 f — — — 1 — 0.01
5.47 NI)(i' (1.0049
2.01 Nn n.on2ft(l)
1.40 o.o2(l^ n.nn3o'
1.2 n.-)
o.i n.rn
(a) All data were collected between December 1976 and April 1977.
(b) Average for sampling sites 1 and 3; downwind of coal pile.
(e) Average for sampling sites 4, 8, and 9; downwind of coal pile.
(d) Sampling site 6; upwind of coal pile about 1600 m and off of the pover station property.
(e) From Cleland and Kingsbury (1977a and b).
(f) Based on ,-i Toxic Limit Value (TLV) which recognizes the element's carcinogenic potential (Cleland and Kingsbury, 1977a and b).
(R) Based on teratogenic potential (Cleland and Kingsbury, 1977a and b).
(h) Not available.
(i) Concentrations were not available for some sampling sites during all three campaigns.
(i) N'D = not detectable.
Note: For ease of making comparisons, EPC values which are used for making comparisons and the field data which exceed them are underlined.
-------
Maximum and minimum concentrations of 15 elements analyzed in
fugitive dust are compared with the appropriate EPC's for soil in Table
2. Again, the data are grouped to include sampling sites less than
200 m (i.e., 150-175 m) and greater than 200 m (i.e., 400-1800 m)
downwind of the coal pile. Concentrations of the same elements in the
raw coal are also shown. EPC's for protection of human health and the
environment are given for 12 elements; no EPC values for iron, chlorine,
and fluorine have been determined.
The majority of the elements analyzed showed maximum and frequently
minimum concentrations in the fugitive dust that were far greater than
the EPC levels suggested for the soil. Ten elements exceeded the EPC's
for human health and 11 elements exceeded the EPC's for the environment.
Both the maximum and minimum concentrations of 8 elements (As, Cd, Cr,
Cu, Pb, Mn, Ni, and Se) in the fugitive dust exceeded the EPC's for both
human health and the environment.
Obviously, the concentrations of toxic trace elements in fugitive
coal dust that has settled to the ground does not mean that these same
concentrations occur in the soil. However, studies involving soil
contamination by other types of particulate deposition have shown that
toxic trace elements in these particulates can cause ecosystem dis-
ruption resulting in the loss of essential nutrients and can also result
in increased concentration of these toxic elements in both plants and
animals. These types of effects have been demonstrated for lead smelter
emissions (Jackson and Watson, 1977; Kerin, 1975) and for fly ash emis-
sions from coal-fired power plants (Furr, et al., 1977). Dvorak, et al.
(1978), have speculated that long-term exposure to uncombusted coal dust
may cause changes in vegetation community structure similar to those
caused by particulates from coal combustion.
Mechanisms for the movement of toxic trace elements from particulate
emissions deposited on the ground to the root zone of the soil are
complex (Vaughan, et al., 1975; Dvorak, et al., 1978). A partial list of
the factors which influence leaching of trace elements from deposited
particulates into the soil solution include (1) the size and type of
particulates; (2) the amount and acidity of precipitation; (3) the
concentrations and physicochemical properties of the trace elements;
29
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TABLE 2. COMPARISONS OF EPC VALUES FOR SOIL WITH HOMER CITY FUGITIVE DUST DATA
M.i:< i mum
Mini mum
As
Cd
154
11
264
18
Trace Element Concentration, ufc/g
Cr
Cu
Fe
n
Mn
Ni
Tl
Zn
Cl
Se
471
Concentrations in Paniculate at Sampling Sites within 200 n of Hrmer City Coal Pile (Sites 1 and 3)
39,081
4,043
J3,_6_78
336
28,736
6,223
17,241
501
632
65
3^
0.2
264
23
8,676
626
3,563
,
o
HIM 1th
10
2
Estimated Permissible Concentrations (EPC's) for Soil
0,06(c) 0.01(C) 200
70(C) 10
50
(c)
0.01(d)10
20
17
aea
1.000
Raw Co.il Concentrations Determined by Individual Analysis of Three Homer City Coal Sources
0.26 35 31 48,750 17.3
(e)
fe)
v-
{e)
22
<0.1
30
n 48,750
20 18,000
12
_74 1.1 16.1 1,329 66 0.26
35 0.34 12.» 1,125 46 0.23
15
ins fo
91 55
Data from three sampling campaigns conducts : by Battelle in the study area.
t rum CK'l.ind and Kingsbury (1977a and b); all values were multiplied by 100 based on personal communication with Kingsbury (August, 1978).
Based on i-ari-inoRi-ntc potential (Cleland and Kingsbury, 1977a and b) .
Ba-;..<) on tur.itoni'niv potential (Cleland and Kingsbury, 1977a and b).
Value mil available.
ND = not Lk t ei-1 ab )u .
Coal sources include: Helen Mining Company and Helvetia Coal Company (from Upper Freeport Seam); and trucked-in coal (from Lover Kittanning S^am).
Note: For ease of making comparisons, EPC values which are used for making comparisons and the field data which exceed them are underlined.
-------
(4) the texture, organic content, pH, and other characteristics of the
soil; (5) the solubility of elements in the soil solution; and (6) the
temperature of the air and soil.
The fugitive dust quantity and composition found during monitoring
have probably been accumulating on the ground in a reasonably similar
fashion since the power plant (including the coal storage pile) began
operation in 1969. Thus, mobile elements in the settled dust may have
leached into the soil. The quantity of toxic trace elements available
to vegetation, hjwever, needs to be determined by chemical analysis of
the soil. In spite of any leaching of trace elements that may have in-
creased soil concentration, the vegetation for some distance from the
coal pile has not yet shown any adverse effects that were readily
apparent during Battelle's field reconnaissance. An analysis of soil
biota and plant diversity, however, was not conducted.
Another basis for comparison is also possible; MATE values for
components in solid wastes have also been developed. Inasmuch as the
deposited fugitive dusts are tantamount to being a solid waste and these
deposits may contact or be absorbed or consumed by plants and animals,
comparisons with MATE values for solid wastes would appear to be valid.
Such a comparison has been made in Table 3. The table's structure is
similar to that of Tables 1 and 2.
In Table 3, the appropriate MATE values are judged to be the ones
related to ecology limits. In general, these have lower values than
thoce for health; exceptions are mercury (Hg), chlorine (Cl), and
fluorine (F), the latter two for which there are no ecology values
available. Twelve of the fifteen MATE values for health are exceeded by
the maximum values for both the close in (>200 m) and the more remote
(<200 m) sampling sites. Eleven of the ecology values are exceeded.
Comparisons of solid waste MATE values with the elemental concentrations
in the raw coals are also provided in Table 3. Elemental concentrations
in the raw coal exceed many of the same elemental EPC values exceeded by
elements in fugitive dust. However, the levels of toxic elements in the
raw coal are generally lower than the levels in the fugitive dust.
31
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TABLE 3. COMPARISONS OF MATE VALUES FOR SOLID WASTE WITH HOMER CITY FUGITIVE DUST DATA
Trace Element Concentration, UR/R
As Cd Cr
Cu
Fe Pb Mn Hg Ni Ti
Zn Cl F V Se
Concentrations in Paniculate at SanplinR Sites within 200 m of Homer City Coal Pile (Sites 1 nnd 3)
Maximum 154 264 471
3,678
28,736 17,'241 632 3 264 S.676
Minimum 11 18 18 336 6.223 501 65 0.2 23 626
Concentrations in Particulate at Sampling Sites Between 200 and 2,000 m of Homer
Maximum 238 619 667
Minimum 3A ND 46
U>
S3
Health 50 10 50
Ki-oloRv U) 0.2 50
Raw Coal
Maximum 48 0.26 35
Minimum 22 --<"> 30 5
(ol
Coal Sources *'
66 0.26 108 65 til)
46 0.23 91 55 ND
(a) Data from three sampling campaigns conducted by Battelle in the study area.
(b) From Cleland and Kingsbury (1977a and b); all values were multiplied by 100 based on personal communication with Kingsbury (August, 1978).
(c) HATE values listed are for ferrous (Fe+2)_Or ferric (Fe+3) (Cleland and Kingsbury, 1977a and b).
(d) MATE value listed is for chloride ion (Cl ) (Cleland and Kingsbury, 1977a and b).
(e) Value not available.
(f) ND « not detectable.
(g) Coal sources include: Helen Mining Conpjiny and Helvetia Coal Company (from Upper Freeport Seam); and trucked-in coal (fr™ Lower Kittanninp
(h) MATE value listed is for fluoride Ion (F ).
Note: For ease of making comparisons, MATE values which are used for making comparisons and the field data which exceed them are underlined.
-------
AQUATIC ENVIRONMENT
Water Quality Determinations
The water quality study was designed to obtain data on the nature
and characteristics of the water resources in the vicinity of the Homer
City power complex prior to the operation of the coal preparation facil-
ity. The study was directed toward the establishment of some perspective
as to the trends and cause/effect relationships and physical/chemical
interactions between the existing land-use activities and the present
water quality on and around the facility site.
Because water quality varies over time as well as area, a short-term
grab-sampling effort such as that conducted at Homer City can provide
only a hint as to the long-term (annual or longer) trends, even when
supplemented by data from previous studies. Also, an additional com-
plication is introduced by the fact that the study area has been in a
state of flux. Major alterations to power plant effluent treatment
systems and changes in regional land use have made most of the histor-
ical data obsolete or usable only with caution. The approach used was
to determine the effects of each of the land uses on water quality,
first additively and tnen in conjunction.
Sampling was conducted during three periods: December 14 through
19, 1976 (Campaign I); March 1 through 3, 1977 (Campaign II); and April
20 through 22, 1977 (Campaign III). Analytical results for 30 water
quality and 9 sediment quality parameters selected for analysis in the
streams and tributaries in the study area subsequently were used for
comparison with 30 MEG values (Figure 5).
Location of Sampling Sites
Whenever possible, a sampling point was located at a point where
historical data were available, either from previous environmental or
engineering studies or as a requirement of the National Pollutant
Discharge Elimination Systems (NPDES) permit for the Homer City power
33
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A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
Ash Disposal Area
Mine Drainage Treatment Pond
Helvetia Boney Pile (at mine)
Coal Cleaning Plant
Coal Storage Pile
Power Plant
Industrial Waste Treatment Plant
Helen Boney Pile (at mine)
FIGURE 5. STREAMS AND TRIBUTARIES SURVEYED IN THE
HOMER CITY AREA
34
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plant. As previously stated, these data were generally less com-
prehensive than desired, and in several cases .they have been made ob-
solete as a result of changes in power plant operating status. The
locations of the sampling sites for surface water and sediment samples
are shown in Figures 6 and 7, respectively.
Selection of Parameters
Pollutant parameters were selected on the basis of one or more of
the following criteria:
• Relevance to particular land uses known to be' important in the
various watersheds around the plant
• Inclusion in previous water quality surveys at Homer City Station
• Appropriateness to EPA Level I assessment needs
• Presence in the source coal or in the ash
• Inclusion in NPDES monitoring data
• Suspected or known toxicity
• Likelihood of being present in any discharges from the coal
cleaning plant or associated process areas.
Parameters selected are listed in Table 4. Not all parameters were
monitored at every site during each campaign. In connection with
parameter selection, analyses of the source coal and ash were made which
confirmed that an appropriate set of parameters had been selected. The
results of these analyses are given in Appendix C.
Land Use Analysis
Because the watersheds at Homer City are already influenced by a
number of land uses (see Table 5) other than the proposed coal pre-
paration plant, a cause/effect matrix was developed on the basis of the
expected interactions between the land use class and the water quality
(Table 6). A set of five major land use classes were identified—
agriculture, mining, urban, construction, and power generation. Power
35
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A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
Ash Disposal Area
Mine Drainage Treatment Pond
Helvetia Boney Pile (at mine)
Coal Cleaning Plant
Coal Storage Pile
Power Plant
Industrial Waste Treatment Plant
Helen Boney Pile (at mine)
P = partial data analysis
H = sampling site identifier
CDE = sampling site identifier
F = sampling site identifier
Cherry Run
Reservoir
Identity
Code for
Sampling'
Sites
FIGURE 6. SURFACE WATER QUALITY SAMPLING LOCATIONS
36
-------
A
B
C
D
E
F
G
H
Ash Disposal Area
Mine Drainage Treatment Pond
Helvetia Boney Pile (at mine)
Coal Cleaning Plant
Coal Storage Pile
Power Plant
Industrial Waste Treatment Plant
Helen Boney Pile (at mine)
H = sampling site identifier
CDE = sampling site identifier
F = sampling site identifier
Cherry Run
Reservoir
__. Identity <
17 D code for
sampling
sites
FIGURE 7. STREAM SEDIMENT SAMPLING LOCATIONS(a)
37
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TABLE 4. WATER QUALITY PARAMETERS—HOMER CITY RECONNAISSANCE SURVEY
Parameter
Parameter
(a)
Arsenic
Beryllium
Calcium
Cadmium
Chromium
Chromium, hexavalent
Copper
Iron, total
Iron, dissolved
Iron, ferrous
Lead
Magnesium
Manganese
Mercury
Nickel
Potassium
Sodium
Vanadium
Zinc
pH
Acidity
Alkalinity
Sulfate
Chloride
Fluoride
Suspended solids
Dissolved solids
Total solids
Volatile solids
Sulfide
Ammonia nitrogen
Kjeldahl nitrogen
Nitrate Nitrogen
Nitrite nitrogen
Total phosphorus
Phenolics
C.O.D.
T.O.C.
Specific conductance
Oil and Grease
(a) Dissolved heavy metals and nonmetals were measured at a limited
number of stations during campaigns II and III; total metals and
nonmetals were monitored at all stations.
38
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TABLE 5. LAND USE INFLUENCE ON STREAM WATER QUALITY AT HOMER CITY POWER COMPLEX
VO
• • • — . . . : . . : .
\ Land Use
Basin \v
Cherry Run - Main Stream
Cherry Run - North
Tributary
Cherry Run - South
Tributary
Wier's Run
Common Ravine
Second Ravine
Two Lick Creek
Power Generation
i-
. c cu ao H a) a)
<" 2 , 4J e to C* cc JJ 4JQJ4JSH) U 0 M c IS
4-; y CJJCM-'-IO-O-HW
^ ^. 3 aJtdQJOOM 3 to 4-1 n)O
•* 5P „ I-1 BSBCrt rH -H in ^ ii
t> C e 4J V * ^(c) (b) (b)
* T«+ O O *
* + *
**** +** + +(b> *
(a) * Indicates a land use having a major influence on water quality.
+ Indicates a land use having a minor influence on water quality.
o Degree of influence on water quality is unknown.
(b) Indirect interaction via industrial waste treatment facility.
(c) Intermittent accidental discharge.
-------
TABLE 6. CAUSE/EFFECT MATRIX OF LAND USE CONTRIBUTIONS TO
WATER QUALITY PARAMETER VALUES
__ — . . • • — — ' • • — —
\
\
\
\
\
\ Activity
\
\
Index \
Parameter \
pH
Acidity
Alkalinity
Sulfate
Chloride
Fluoride
Susp. solids
Diss. solids
Total solids
Volatile solids
Sulfide
Ammonia nitrogen
Kjeldahl nitrogen
Nitrate nitrogen
Nitrite nitrogen
Total phosphorus
Phenols
Oil and grease
C.O.D.
T.O.C.
Specific con-
ductance
Arsenic
Cadmium
Chromium
Copper
Lead
Mercury
Nickel
Zinc
Vanad ium
Beryllium
Iron, total
Iron, dissolved
Iron, ferrous
Calcium
Sodium
Magnesium
Manganese
Temperature
Power Generation
c
QJ O
J-4 T"l
3 4-t
3 6C 1-
0 C w C
'H -H C/J CO
U C C J3
4f 5 5 £
x . x
X
x x
x x
X
X
X XX
x x x x
XX X
X XX
X
X x
X "
X XX
X "
X XX
X
X
xxx
X XX
xxx
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X X
X
X
X X
X
X
X
c
OJ
6
iJ Ui
(TJ OJ
1 U 4J
^ ra c
t- 3
-------
generation is further separated into water treatment (and associated
sludge disposal), wastewater treatment (industrial and domestic),
cooling water discharge, blowdown discharge, ash sluice overflow, ash
disposal, coal storage, and oil drainage and storage. The types of pol-
lutants associated with each land use class are described in Appendix C.
In attempting to trace the fate of pollutants from these activities, the
pollutant parameters ideally should be mutually exclusive for each. The
monitoring of water quality in a watershed containing a number of pollu-
tion sources should resolve the origin of the pollution. Land use
patterns, and thus contributions, to study site streams are presented in
Table 5.
The water chemistry of the streams in the vicinity of Homer City was
examined as it relates to the solubility of important elements and ions
and the susceptibility of these streams to changes in water quality. In
addition, chemical analysis results were acquired for the U.S.
Geological Survey hydrologic and water quality benchmark station on
Young Woman's Creek near Renovo, Pennsylvania (Table 7). Benchmark
stations are located in undeveloped drainage basins in the major phys-
iographic regions of the country. Renovo is approximately 85 miles (136
km) northeast of Homer City. Although this station is located in the
Susquehanna River Basin rather than in the Ohio River Basin, the topog-
raphy and lithology of this area are very similar to those in the
vicinity of Homer City. (See Appendix C for physical descriptions of
drainage basins in the Homer City area.)
The monitored parameters for Cherry Run Basin, Wier's Run, Common
Ravine/Second Ravine, and Two Lick Creek have been classified into three
groups according to their interactions and significance—solubility
controlling species, toxic materials, and solids and nutrients. Anal-
ysis results for the three groups of parameters are discussed below.
Detailed data are presented in Appendix B.
41
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TABLE 7. CHEMICAL ANALYSIS—WATER YEAR 1973 YOUNG WOMAN'S
CREEK NEAR RENOVO, PENNSYLVANIA
Discharge, cfs
SiOoi PPm
Ca, dissolved, ppm
Mg, dissolved, ppm
Na, dissolved, ppm
K, dissolved, ppm
Alkalinity, ppn as CaC03
304, dissolved, ppm
Cl, dissolved, ppm
F, dissolved, ppm
N03, ppm
N02 , ppm <
TP, ppm
TDS, ppm
Hard, total, ppm
Specific conductance, umhos /era
PH
Temperature, c
D . 0 , , ppm
Fe, total, ppb
Mn, total, ppb
As, total, ppb <
Cd, total, ppb
Cr, total, ppb <
Cu, total, ppb
Pb, total, ppb
Hg, total, ppb <
Zn, total, ppb <
Suspended solids, ppm
TOC, ppm
Annual
Average
108
3.8
3.9
1.0
0,9
1.2
5.8
7.3
1.4
0,1
0.025
0.01
0.01
27
22
39
6.2-6.9
9.7
11.4
180
30
1
0
10
0
2
0.5
3
6
C.5
December - April
Average
156
3.6
3.5
1.0
0.8
1.3
3.8
7.5
1.8
0.1
0.29
N.D.
0.01
26
22
37
6.2-6.9
4.5
13.0
20
20
< 1
0
< 10
0
1
< 0.5
0
5
N.D.
Source: U.S. Department of the Interior, 1974.
42
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Cherry Run Basin
For reference purposes, the locations of the sampling sites on the
main portion of Cherry Run and on the two small tributaries are shown in
Figures 8 and 9.
Solubility Controls
Parameters included in this classification were iron species, sulfur
species, manganese, calcium, alkalinity, acidity, and pH (Figure 10).
The water quality at most of the sites was influenced by the
solubility limits for iron and manganese, which are both strongly
controlled by pH. At equilibrium, both ferrous and dissolved iron
should be at or below the detection limit of the analysis at pH values
above 6. The iron and manganese relationships are especially relevant
for Campaign I, which was characterized by low temperatures, high
dissolved oxygen levels, and a solute transport mode in the form of
snow-melt runoff. Significant quantities of ferrous iron were found at
Sites HI, H3, and CDE1, and lesser amounts at the other sites. No
active mines are known to be presently discharging to either Cherry Run
or the north tributary above the sampling locations. The source of the
iron was not apparent but may be historical.
Site CDEl below the emergency holding pond and siltation ponds
receives runoff from the construction area around the coal preparation
plant, and surface and subsurface drainage from a portion of the coal
storage pile. The water quality at this site was therefore influenced
even more strongly by iron and manganese chemistry than was the water
quality at the other sites.
A limited number of groundwater samples were obtained upgradient of
the surface water site CDEl. Station CDE5 is located just below the
coal storage pile in a manhole accessing the lateral sewers constructed
to control water migration through the coal pile. Station CDE7, an
industrial water well, located further to the west and slightly north of
the coal pile, receives inflow from the area around the coal preparation
plant and possibly from the coal mine mouth area. The exact direction
of groundwater flow on this side of the coal pile has not been
43
-------
Legend
A Refuse disposal area
B Coal pile
C Coal cleaning plant
D Coal pile retention ponds
E Substation
F Burial yard
O Surface water sample
Groundwater sample
Sediment and surface water sample
SITES
1. HI
2. H2
3. H3, HA
4. Partial
5. H5
6. H14, HIS
7. H16, H17
8. H13
9. H7
10. Hll
11. H10
12. H9
13. H8
14. CDE1, CDE2
15. H6
16. CDE8
17. CDE7
1R T.DE5
FIGURE 8. CHERRY RUN SAMPLING LOCATIONS—CAMPAIGN I
44
-------
Legend
A Refuse disposal area
B Coal pile
C Coal cleaning plant
D Coal pile retention ponds
E Substation
F Burial yard
O Surface water sample
Groundwater sample
Sediment and surface water sample
1. HI
2. H3, HA
3. H13
4. H14, H15
H7
12. CDE1, CDE2
13. H8
14. H6, H12
FIGURE 9. CHERRY RUN SAMPLING LOCATIONS—CAMPAIGNS II
AND III
45
-------
•rl
C
32
(X
7
6
5
4
3
JU
40
30
20
10
—
•M
••••
-n-
rrfT =Hl-r-^n j-i n-
••M
—
B
Vertical Scale
X6
z/u
240
210
180
150
120
90
60
-
-
-
1m-.THT
••M
-
MM
••••
-
—
•••
—
•••
-
-
MM
—
••••
r-rrr
«••
•••
-Itv
t>0
e
j . ^
2.8
2.4
2.0
1.6
1.2
0.8
0.4
0
-
—
-
^M
^ I
^•B
P
i i in: IE
HI H3
— 1 — p/ifff -i —
\
6t
K^ Dissolved Iron
I
1
ill
Ei inm i n m. i n
H6 CDEl H8
i r i
-i rm ,
;~hLLL,
M IETH inm inm
H7 H13 H14
North Main South
Tributary Stem Tributary
Main
Stem
FIGURE 10. HISTOGRAMS OF SOME IMPORTANT SOLUBILITY CONTROLLING
INDICATOR SPECIES IN CHERRY RUN BASIN
I = Campaign I, II = Campaign II, and III = Campaign III in
all histograms shown above the Roman numerals.
Note:
46
-------
determined with precision. There is a close correlation between the
shallow groundwater quality and surface water quality at CDE1. Modest
amounts of dissolved oxygen (2.5-6.8 mg/1) are present and prevent the
build-up of sulfides, in the near-surface groundwater. However,
sulfides may be formed in the deeper percolate. The pH of these ground-
waters is low enough to maintain the extremely high concentrations of
iron and manganese observed. The combination of low alkalinity and high
sulfate means that none of these samples is saturated with respect to
calcium carbonate (as calcite), but most of the time they are saturated
with calcium sulfate. Usage of the well water is very limited. Little
is known about the amounts of surface or groundwater reaching Station
CDE1 from these wells or from the coal pile. As the coal preparation
plant site returns to a stable condition, the northwest corner of the
coal pile will likely be regraded to cause the surface runoff to
discharge into the desilting basins on the south side of the pile.
These channels have become blocked due to earth moving during
construction and because of mass-wasting from the coal pile.
Surface water quality in this area was found to be typical of Class
II mine drainage in which a portion of the ferrous iron has been
oxidized. The low pH in these samples effectively maintained the levels
of soluble and ferrous iron observed. As this water oxidized and mixed
with water from the south refuse area tributary, ferric hydroxide and
occasionally calcium sulfate were in saturation equilibrium with their
respective solid phases.
The south tributary also has been the receptor for runoff from the
construction of siltation and treatment ponds for the refuse disposal
area. Site H8 was relocated after the first campaign upstream to a point
just below the discharge from the coal refuse disposal construction
area. The result of this relocation was the isolation of the effects of
this activity from the coal pile and plant site runoff.
Total iron increased markedly during Campaign II, presumably as a
result of erosion or stream scouring. This is supported by the fact
that the increase is entirely in the particulate fraction. Neither
alkalinity nor suLfate concentrations were notably affected by the
47
-------
drainage from the back pond area. Sulfate concentrations are already
high upstream of the leachate pond construction area. The source of
this sulfate was not determined.
Downstream water quality in this tributary is improved by the inflow
of water from a series of seepage springs. The springs contribute 9 to
20 percent of the flow from the south tributary. These springs had the
best water quality in Cherry Run Basin and approach the quality of the
reference stream.
Below the confluence of the south tributary with Cherry Run itself,
the water quality shows no effects of the land use activities along the
south tributary. The quality of the water below the confluence is equal
or superior to that of the upstream water with respect to iron,
alkalinity, pH, and sulfates. Water at Site H14 is nearly in
equilibrium with CaCC>3.
Several mine discharges located on Cherry Run about 0.7 km upstream
of the discharge to Two Lick Creek resulted in the reintroduction of the
iron and sulfate which had been previously removed by precipitation
and/or reduced in concentration by uncontarainated inflows.
One final point concerning the influences of any future development
on the pH of Cherry Run or its tributaries relates to the buffer capac-
ity. Buffer capacity at all of the stations was highly variable and
generally low, primarily because of the lack of natural alkalinity
(Figure 11). Discharges of low-pH water from either the emergency
holding pond or accidental spillage from the sedimentation or treatment
pond for the refuse leachate will have a relatively adverse impact on
Cherry Run water quality in view of the existing conditions.
Toxic Materials
The trace metals and nonmetals, phenolics, and biodegradable
organics are included in the Toxic Materials group. On the basis of
theoretical considerations, it was not expected that analyses would show
significant concentrations of any heavy metals at any distance from a
source because of solubility and adsorption phenomena. Aqueous levels
of total metals/nonmetals were found to be very low. Zinc was detected
48
-------
0.8f—
0.6
o-
o>
0.4
o
o
a.
o
o
I
CD
0.2
O.O
i H nt
H3
n m
H6
i n nr
H8
i n in
CDE i
x n m
HI3
n m
HI4
Sampling Station
FIGURE 11. BUFFER CAPACITY--CHERRY RUN
Note: I = Campaign I, II = Campaign II, and III = Campaign III in
all histograms shown above the Roman numerals.
-------
the most frequently; cadmium, nickel, copper, and chromium only occa-
sionally; and mercury, arsenic, vanadium, beryllium, and lead rarely.
This trend appears to be the result of the level in the source coal and
the solubility/adsorption/volatility behavior of the metal. For
example, 47 to 69 ppm zinc was present in the coal samples tested. Zinc
is also relatively soluble at pH values below 7.0 and thus was found in
solution more frequently than cadmium or lead, which were at much lower
concentrations in the coal and generally form more insoluble complexes.
Despite their low solubility, metals can become mobilized via a
number of mechanisms, physical, chemical, and biological. As conditions
change moving downstream, coprecipitation and adsorption are the primary
modes by which trace metal ions are again made immobile. The result is
an accumulation of these metals in the sediments. In the Cherry Run
Basin, metals were most often found at Site CDE1. Levels of nickel and
zinc are the only ones which were considered higher than the analytical
detection levels. The trace metals tend to behave similarly to iron,
manganese, and sulfate in that the effects of activities along the south
tributary are very local and do not extend downstream into the main stem
of Cherry Run. Metals were never detected at Site H14. The physical
form of the metals found at Site CDE1 was also of interest (see Table
8). Samples from Campaigns II and 111 were filtered on site and tested
TABLE 8. FORM OF TRACE METALS IN WATER SAMPLES
OBTAINED AT SITE CDEl59
>6000
(a) Values in mg/1.
(b) Equilibrium assumed.
(c) n.d. = not detectable.
50
-------
for dissolved metals. In every case all of the total metals found in
the samples were in the dissolved fraction.
These observed values are compared with the expected values on the
basis of solubility. It is obvious that these dissolved metals cannot
be in equilibrium with the metal oxide or hydroxide solid phase at this
pH. Adsorption must therefore play an important role in the accumulation
of metals to the observed concentrations.
Since adsorption takes place at surfaces, the surfaces present were
characterized by their organic content and particle size distribution.
The mineral sediment at most monitoring locations consisted of sand and
gravel. The downstream sites (H14 and H16) also contained some silty
organic material.
The iron and manganese content of these sediments is perhaps the
most significant fraction in that several investigations have documented
the effect of hydrous iron and manganese oxide precipitates on trace
metals. Judging by the large amounts of iron and manganese in the
sediments, it is believed that precipitation of these two metals
constitutes one of the major mechanisms for removing the trace toxic
metals from solution. As these floes, which are composed of compounds
of iron, manganese, and trace metals, settle to the bottom and age, water
is squeezed out and compression settling takes place. The metals held
in the interstices of the floe are then effectively immobilized unless
the floe is dissolved by an acid discharge or resuspended and physically
transported. This latter possibility may be important for dispersion of
the metals but could not be investigated in detail.
Specific toxic organic pollutants in Cherry Run were not identified
in the preoperational monitoring. Simple (Level I) analytical screening
tests exist for only one class of organic compounds, namely the
phenolics. Phenolics have been found to be toxic to some aquatic life
at levels in excess of 200 yg/1. The maximum concentrations observed
were an order of magnitude lower than the water quality criterion for
phenolics (Figure 12).
51
-------
Ln
ho
00
g
o
H
00
6
G
O
U
12
11 -
10 -
9 -
8 -
7 -
6 -
COD
Detection 5 ~
Limit
TOC
Detection 1 ~
Limit
0
a
Legend
O Phenols
D COD
TOC
r~
HI
—r~
H3
H6
-i 1 1 r-
H8 CDE1 H7 H13
T
T
- 0.035
- 0.030
- 0.025
- 0.020
- 0.015
- 0.010
Phenol
0.005 Detection
Limit
o
c
0
H14 H16
FIGURE 12. PHENOL, COD, AND TOC CONCENTRATIONS AT VARIOUS
LOCATIONS IN THE CHERRY RUN WATERSHED
-------
The organic loading data suggest that these streams have a fairly
low organic load on a steady-state basis and that some of the COD is
contributed by the oxidation of ferrous iron to ferric iron and of
manganous (Mn~*"2) ion to manganic (MN~™) ion. An extensive deter-
mination of the assimilative capacity of Cherry Run was not performed.
However, the dissolved oxygen saturation levels in the streams were
always greater than 70 percent at all locations.
Nutrients and Solids
In the final category of pollutants are the nutrients and solids.
Included in this classification were nitrogen species; phosphorus
species; organic carbon; and suspended, volatile, dissolved, and total
solids. Figures 12, 13, and 14 depict these indicators.
Although nutrients were identified in the approach section as being
associated primarily with agricultural land-use activity, some ammonia
can be contributed from predominantly industrial sources.
None of the measured ammonia concentrations were high enough to be
considered toxic. The maximum ammonia concentration was 0.19 mg/1
NH3~N at a pH of 3.8. The water quality criterion for ammonia
nitrogen was not exceeded. Ammonia is rapidly assimilated by the stream
and within a few hundred meters (H8) was below the detection limit.
Concentrations of ammonia were independent of flow.
Nitrate behaved much differently from the ammonia. The influences
of the agricultural land use to the north were apparent in the values at
HI and H3. The concentrations remained high at H1A, primarily because
of the pastureland along the east bank. A sample was obtained during
Campaign I at Site H5 to characterize drainage from this land. The
N03~N concentration of 7.0 mg/1 was several times greater than the
nitrate values in any of the other samples. Nitrate also showed a
marked dependence on flow, with the values during wet weather in
Campaigns I and II being much higher than those during dry weather in
Campaign III.
53
-------
a oo
H §5
x 0.05
PU
Detec- "*
tion Limit
H14
Benchmark
4-1 6
Detec- —
tion Limit
0.5 -
HI
H3
H6
H8
CDE1
H7
H13
H14 Benchmark
Detec- - -*
tion Limit
HI
inrmi rn ZK i nm xinr inrin: i TLJH. i ILIL
H3 H6 H8 CDE1 H7 H13 H14
FIGURE 13. CONCENTRATIONS OF PLANT NUTRIENTS AT VARIOUS
LOCATIONS IN CHERRY RUN WATERSHED
Note: I = Campaign I, II = Campaign II, and III = Campaign III
in all histograms shown above the Roman numerals.
54
-------
180
160
§ 140
•S 120
f 100
1 80
60
40
20
H3
H6
H8
CDE1
H7
HI 3
H14
I
I
Z!
00
H13
H14 Benchmark
1600
1400
1200
1000
800
-------
Nitrate levels were also influenced by agricultural and industrial
land usage in the south tributary. Elevated concentrations of nitrate
were found in drainage (CDE1) from the emergency holding ponds and in
drainage (H6) from some small cornfields. Hence, downstream nitrate
concentrations at H13 just prior to the discharge to the main stem were
also elevated. Only during Campaign III did the nitrate value return to
the baseline values as defined by the benchmark station, probably
because of reduced transport from adjacent land uses.
Construction and agricultural runoff control the amounts of
suspended and volatile solids in these streams. Although most of the
fields have been contour plowed and strip-cropped, some erosion may
still be occurring. At the site of construction for the leachate ponds,
suspended solids increased significantly. Here and at the other
stations, there was a notable decrease in suspended solids as the flow
decreased. At CDEl the suspended solids may be largely iron hydroxide
precipitate, which would remain suspended longer than silt or sand. The
high volatile solids may, in fact, have been the result of loss of
hydration water, but this has not been verified.
The suspended solids in the south tributary do not settle until the
juncture with the main stem at H14. Concentrations of suspended solids
in the Cherry Run basin approached those in the reference stream during
Campaign III. Total phosphate was quite low except at two locations-Hi
and H8. Phosphate concentrations obtained at these sites are values
probably associated with the solids fraction and were caused by
agricultural and construction influences, respectively.
Wier's Run
Sampling locations for Wier's Run are shown in Figures 15
and 16.
56
-------
L... \
-
/
/
/
1
1
1
1
I
\
\
\
\
\
\
V.
\
\
\
\
\
Watershed
Boundary
•N
•
\
\
\
\
\
\
\
\
\
\
Legend
A Ash disposal area
B Boney pile
O Surface water samples
® Ground water samples
• Sediment and surface
water samples
s
/
Two Lick Creek
FIGURE 15. WIER'S RUN SAMPLING LOCATIONS—CAMPAIGN I
57
-------
Watershed /
Boundary
Legend
A Ash disposal area
B Boney pile
O Surface water samples
• Sediment and surface
water samples
FIGURE 16. WIER'S RUN SAMPLING LOCATIONS—CAMPAIGNS II AND III
58
-------
Solubility Controls
Reactions involving alkalinity, pH, and the solubility of iron,
manganese, and calcium are again significant in relation to the control
of leaching from the ash disposal area (Figure 17). As the percolate
emerges below the ash dump, soda ash (Na2C03) is added to artifi-
cially raise the alkalinity and pH. Water from these collectors and the
untreated water from a small pond flows into large settling ponds.
The water quality just below the effluent weir showed that the iron
was primarily in a soluble form. Also, ferrous iron constituted just
over 10 percent of the total iron. As this effluent travels downstream
and achieves equilibrium, most of the soluble iron should precipitate
and the ferrous—ferric equilibrium should cause ferrous iron
concentrations to fall below the detection limit. Manganese should
precipitate farther downstream. In fact, this process was taking place
and ferric and manganic hydroxides were found coating the stream bottom.
Just below the discharge point from the sedimentation ponds, a small
tributary enters Wier's Run from the west. This tributary drains an
area used for agriculture and cattle grazing. No activities relating to
ash disposal or acid mine drainage occur in this subdrainage, and
consequently low levels of iron, manganese, sulfates, and calcium were
observed. No ferrous iron was detected. Alkalinity and pH were higher
here but still well below the saturation for calcium carbonate. The
volume of flow was small at the time of sampling and is annually
intermittent.
About 0.4 mile downstream from the effluent weir, a tributary enters
from the east. This stream was sampled upstream at a point where it
exits from Oak Tree Pond. The inflow to Oak Tree Pond is a conduit
which conveys the treated Helvetia Coal Company mine water discharged
from the treatment pond indicated at point B on the site map (Figures 15
and 16). Lime is used to add alkalinity to the mine water and precipi-
tate the iron. This treatment is generally successful as evidenced by
59
-------
8
1
6
X
0.
—
—
a eor
. o
>% o
•t: o
c
'i o 30
o»
E n
O
1800;
^ 1200
X.'
o>
e
«T 800
o
(J?
400
—
^^
rm
—
—
—
—
__
™™*
• ..•
_
JT-TI r-L^
5-
—
—
—
^~
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"5 16
o>
6. 12
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