QUARTERLY
REPORT
PACIFIC NORTHWEST
WATER LABORATORY
CORVALLIS, OREGON
OCTOBER 1-DECEMBER 31, 1969
FEDERAL WATER POLLUTION
CONTROL ADMINISTRATION ££l
mwA»9fJ
NORTHWEST REGION
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PACIFIC NORTHWEST WATER LABORATORY
QUARTERLY REPORT
October 1 through December 31, 1969
United States Department of the Interior
Federal Water Pollution Control Administration
Northwest Region, Con/all is, Oregon
January 1970
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CONTENTS
Page
OFFICE OF LABORATORY DIRECTOR 1
NATIONAL COASTAL POLLUTION RESEARCH PROGRAM 2
NATIONAL EUTROPHICATION RESEARCH PROGRAM 6
Physiological Control Branch 8
Ecological Control Branch 10
WASTE TREATMENT RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM 15
Paper & Allied Products Research Branch 15
Food Waste Research Branch 18
Regional Research Studies 24
NATIONAL THERMAL POLLUTION RESEARCH PROGRAM 28
BIOLOGICAL EFFECTS RESEARCH PROGRAM 34
CONSOLIDATED LABORATORY SERVICES PROGRAM 38
TRAINING AND MANPOWER DEVELOPMENT 42
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OFFICE OF THE LABORATORY DIRECTOR
Dr. Bartsch presented the keynote address "Water Pollution—An
Ecological Perspective" at Session 4 of the 42nd Annual Conference of
the Water Pollution Control Federation, Oct. 5-10, 1969, in Dallas,
Texas.
Dr. Bartsch presented a talk entitled "People, Water—And
Problems" at the Willamette Valley Environmental Conference, Oct 31-
Nov. 1, 1969, in Salem.
On December 9, 1969 Dr. Bartsch attended the 1200 Series Program
Reviews in Washington, D.C.
Dr. Bartsch attended a meeting of the Project Advisory Committee
to the Inland Lakes Renewal and Management Project, in Madison,
Wisconsin, on Dec. 11.
Dr. Bartsch participated in the Hearings of the Conservation
and Hatural Resources Subcommittee of the House Committee on Govern-
ment Operations held in Washington, D.C., Dec. 15-16, 1969.
Dr. Bartsch presented a talk "Ecology: An Old Word with New
Meaning?" at the Regional SCOPE Seminar held at Portland* Oregon,
Dec. 30, 1969.
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NATIONAL COASTAL POLLUTION RESEARCH PROGRAM
910101/1607
Status of Projects and Significant Accomplishments
Reaeration
One run was made in the quarter in the series aimed at measuring
reaeration rates for various conditions in the Yaquina estuary.
The machine shop work on an in situ radioactivity counter has
been temporarily discontinued due to budget limitations. No further
field work is scheduled for this project until more radioactive
supplies and equipment can be procured.
Analysis of Dredge Spoils and Other Coastal Wastes
Bids for a pulse height analyzer for analysis of trace metals
in coastal wastes and sediments have not yet been obtained. Mean-
while a literature review of trace materials in coastal waste dis-
posal judged to be significant for probable mechanisms and fates
of these trace materials has been initiated. No benthic respirometry
was done during the quarter.
Kraft Mill Outfall Plumes
Work in effluent plume tracing by the fluorometric procedure
previously developed continued in this quarter. In one instance this
method and an airborne sensor method (two-color photography) were
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triedicorrelation between the two methods will be made when the
airborne data are available. The aim is to use the chemical method
as a base to calibrate the airborne sensor which can oversee the
entire plume more easily than a small boat ocean-sampling excursion.
The kraft mill effluent fluorometric procedure is being
assembled into a report.
NAS - NAE State of the Art Report
A report entitled "Management of Wastes in the Coastal Environ-
ment" was prepared by Coastal Pollution Research Program personnel.
It contained recommendations for research on physical, chemical, and
biological aspects in the coastal environment. It was published in
the National Estuarine Study Report.
Columbia River Estuary Temperature Model
Part I of the final project report was completed, reviewed, and
revised. Part I consists of a discussion of theory, computer programs,
and program notes. Part II, a discussion of input-output and model
verification, was begun.
Programs employed by the U. S. Navy Fleet Numerical Weather
Central for calculation of coastal currents were examined with an eye
to their utilization in coastal and estuarine pollution problems.
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Estuarine Diffusion of Pollutants
Approximately 90 per cent of the drafts for the state-of-the-art
report on estuarine water quality modelling was received by TRACOR
and duplicated for preliminary review. The second conference scheduled
for mid-November 1969 was postponed again and tentatively scheduled
for early 1970. Because of the large amount of material received,
the time required for complete review will be longer than anticipated;
the lack of a lead chapter also contributed to the setting back of
the conference date.
Ocean Outfalls
State-of-the-art report number one is still being revised. This
report covers the basic theoretical development of relationships
necessary for the design of an outfall system. As suggested by
several reviewers, much material of a theoretical nature was con-
densed and additional information on operational aspects of drift
flow models was added. A computer program for one of the models
considered for operational development was run on the IBM 360-65
with satisfactory results. Further development will be postponed
until the revision of the report is complete.
Design of Barge Disposal Systems
A rough draft of the state-of-the-art report on barge waste
disposal systems is near completion.
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A programmed analysis for describing the fate of debris from an
underwater explosion has been received and is being studied for appli-
cation in the analysis of slug releases from barges.
Equipment and Instrumentation
Bidder qualification statements from 28 firms were received in
response to the Request for Proposal on development and demonstration
of equipment and methodology for tracing solids discharged to the
marine environment. These have been reviewed and 19 were selected
to submit proposals. This is now at headquarters awaiting further
action.
Grant and Contract Research
Technical reviews were provided on applications and proposals for
research grants and contracts related to the following subjects:
1. A Proposal to Establish and Operate an Estuarine and Coastal
Zone Bibliographic Indexing System and Service - preproposal.
2. Water Pollution Research by Use of Mathematical Modelling -
16050 FEF.
3. Design of Ocean Outfalls Against Wave Effects - 16070 FEA.
4. Demonstration of Pollutant Transport, Fate, and Geochemical
Interaction in the Coastal Littoral Current of Georgia - 16070 FIT.
5. Coastal Pollution - Literature Search, Indexing, and
Abstracting - 16070 FJV.
6. The Components of Oxygenation in Estuaries - 16070 FJC.
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7. A Proposal for Development and Evaluation of a Prototype
Water Temperature Measurement System for Large Estuary Areas - 16070 FJI,
8. Research and Development Study for Estuarine Data Manage-
ment using Hybrid Computer Techniques - 16090 FEB.
Plans for Third Quarter, FY 1970
Work will continue on review of information available on trace
materials in sewage wastes, their fate in coastal waters and sediments,
and possible mechanisms by which they interact with other constituents
in the coastal environment.
Work on a report on kraft mill effluent tracing will be con-
tinued.
Work on a report describing the method of trawl sampling and
examples of available data from Yaquina Bay studies will continue.
Part I of the user's manual of the Columbia River estuary
temperature model will be be published; part II will be completed and
distributed for review.
The second conference on the state-of-the-art of estuarine water
quality modelling will be held, and the final report reviewed
internally.
The Geodyne current-conductivity-temperature-depth system will
be calibrated and field tested. The instrument will be used as an
aid in verifying numerical models of offshore currents and dispersion.
Preliminary testing of a U.S. Navy Fleet Numerical Weather Central
model will be undertaken.
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NATIONAL EUTROPHICATION RESEARCH PROGRAM
910101/1601 and 910102/1601
General
Dr. Bartsch participated in a panel discussion "Eutrophication—
Causes, Effects, and Control" at the Indiana Water Pollution Control
Association annual meeting in Indianapolis on Nov. 18, 1969.
Dr. Bartsch and Mr. Byram participated in the Eutrophication
Workshop, jointly sponsored by the FWPCA and the University of Florida,
in St. Petersburg, Nov. 19-21, 1969.
Dr. Bartsch attended a meeting of the Joint Industry/Government
Task Force on Eutrophication, in Madison, Wisconsin, Nov. 24-25, 1969.
T.E. Maloney visited a demonstration grant project on the
Eutrophication of Surface Waters of Lake Tahoe and Indian Creek
Reservoir, and Dr. Goldman's Research Grant Project on the Limnology
of Lake Tahoe. Mr. Maloney also visited Dr. Jackson at Syracuse
University to discuss and observe the pilot plant project on viral
control of blue-green algae. Messrs. Maloney and Miller met at
Cincinnati with cooperators who are evaluating the Provisional Algal
Assay Procedure to discuss their research findings.
Dr. Bartsch attended a special meeting for government repre-
sentatives of the Joint Industry/Government Task Force on Eutrophi-
cation held in Cincinnati, Ohio, Dec. 8, 1969.
T.E. Maloney was available as a technical resource in Washington,
D.C. for FWPCA witness before the Conservation and Natural Resources
Subcommittee of the House Committee on Government Operations.
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Mr. Maloney met with Dr. Sanders and Dr. Kerr at the Southwest
Water Laboratory to discuss their work with algal physiology and
nutrition.
NERP personnel were visited by Mr. Michael Martin, Director of
Parks and Recreation for the City of Albany, Oregon, with respect
to the city's desire to improve Waverly, Swan, and Timberlinn Lakes.
Local service organizations are interested in participating
financially, and they have contemplated aeration of Waverly. We
foresee possibilities of using these lakes in an experimental
capacity, and have agreed to conduct a brief limnological explora-
tion in January 1970, results of which will determine future pro-
cedures.
Meetings were held at the Regional Office in November relative
to future studies of Waldo Lake. PNWL was represented by Messrs.
Bartsch, Powers, Malueg, and Tilstra. Other organizations repre-
sented were the U. S. Forest Service, Oregon Department of Environ-
mental Quality, Oregon Game Commission and the Oregon Department of
Health. It was agreed that the unusually pristine condition of
Waldo Lake merits special management consideration. PNWL was made
coordinator of studies to determine existing and potential sources
of contamination and optimum ways to manage the lake system.
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PHYSIOLOGICAL CONTROL BRANCH
Status of Projects and Significant Accomplishments
Algal Assay Procedures Section
The evaluation of Selenastrum capricornutiim as a test organism
for both batch and continuous-flow assay systems was continued. The
Shagawa Lake, Minnesota, series of tests continued with emphasis on
the addition of phosphorus spikes to Shagawa Lake and Burntside River
samples. The latter is the main tributary to Shagawa Lake. An
addition of 0.02 mg/1 P to these samples resulted in considerable
increase in algal growth.
The first series of tests using depth-integrated (surface to four
meters in meter intervals) samples from Cline's Pond were conducted.
The seven-day algal growth responses had extremely good correlation
with the nutritional contents.
"Bottle Test" assays were conducted to determine the effect of
varying carbon concentration (as NaHCO.,) in Mod V algal culture
medium. The latter is the Provisional Algal Assay Procedure (PAAP)
medium with the total nitrogen (as NaN03) reduced to 1.5 mg N/l, the
total phosphorus (as KgHPO^) reduced to 0.1 mg P/l, the iron
deleted, the trace elements deleted, and the Na2EDTA-2 H20 reduced
to 1.0 mg/1. Carbon to nitrogen ratios of 0, 2, 4, 8 and 16 were
employed. The results of these tests were erratic with extreme
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variation between replicates. Additional studies were conducted and
it was found that, by returning the iron to the medium, good repli-
cation in algal growth was obtained.
Aquatic Plant Control Section
Studies were initiated to attempt to isolate phycoviruses for
the blue-green algae Microcystis aeruginosa and Anabaena flos-aquae.
Water samples from sewage treatment plants, stabilization ponds, farm
ponds and lakes have been screened, but thus far no viruses have been
isolated. While some plates indicated inhibition of algal growth,
it is felt that this was due to anti-algal metabolites produced by
other microorganisms. Further tests will be conducted to confirm this
assumption.
Attempts are being made to isolate the bacteria which appear to
grow symbiotically with the blue-green algae. If isolation attempts
are successful, effort will be made to find specific bacteriophages
for these bacteria.
Grant and Contract Research
Technical reviews of preproposals and proposals for research
grants, demonstration grants, and contracts were provided for the
following subjects:
1. Development of Decision Criteria for Evaluating the
Technological and Economic Effectiveness of Alternative Algal Bloom
Management Methods.
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2. Ecology and Physiology of Blue-Green Algae.
3. The Biological Control of Water Pollution.
4. Evaluation of Some Environmental Conditions Causing Algal
Blooms.
5. Provisional Algal Assay Procedure.
Publications
Maloney, I.E. and A. F. Bartsch. "Research to Save America's Lakes,"
in Water 1969, Chemical Engineering Progress Symposium No. 97, Vol. 65,
American Institute of Chemical Engineers.
Plans for Third Quarter, FY 1970
Continue PAAP evaluation.
Continue study of the effect of carbon on the growth of Selenastrum
capricornutum.
Continue study of algal and bacterial viruses.
ECOLOGICAL CONTROL BRANCH
Status of Projects and Significant Accomplishments
Nutrient Control Section
The aeration experimental program at Cline's Pond was terminated
at the end of October. Waldo Lake was visited in November but stormy
conditions restricted sampling to a few shore stations. Data from
both projects have been in the work-up stage during the remainder of
the quarter.
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In connection with the Lake Sallie project, fish from that lake
were analyzed for C and N. Nutrient analysis continues for rooted
aquatic plants. In addition, arrangements have been made for coopera-
tion reporting on Lake Sallie research with Dr. Neel at the University
of North Dakota. Part of the results of our Lake Sallie studies is
incorporated in a report entitled "Evaluation Studies on Removal of
Plant Nutrients from Sewage Effluents by Induced Soil Percolation,"
presently in manuscript form.
Rainfall sampling at the Pacific Northwest Water Laboratory site
was resumed in November, utilizing a new all-glass sampling device.
Analyses are being made for N and P in the rainwater.
Experiments on phosphorus uptake by El odea were initiated using
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P. Algal samples for these experiments are collected from the
Smith Loop area near Corvallis. Also, algae are being grown in a
thermally stratified column for determining the movement of phos-
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phorus through a thermocline using P.
Sediment-Water Nutrient Interchange Section
Aluminum sulfate pellets added to an experimental pool in Upper
Klamath Lake in August at a rate of 50 mg/1 did not improve the water
quality in any way over a two-month period. Standing crop of algae
did not differ from the adjacent lake. This suggests several possi-
bilities: the aluminum should have been added as a liquid; much more
than 50 mg/1 should have been added; or the aluminum should have been
added before the onset of the Apham'zomenon bloom.
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A trip was made to Vancouver Lake to obtain sediment samples in
cooperation with personnel of Washington State University.
Laboratory experiments on sediment-water interchange and on
nutrient inactivation have continued. Aluminum sulfate is less
desirable in nutrient stripping than some other aluminum compounds
because of the resultant tendency to form hydrogen sulfide. In inter-
change tests, algae was shown to grow better in the presence of sedi-
ment containing higher concentrations of soluble P and ammonia, than
in the presence of sediment low in these nutrients.
Characterization of sediments from Shagawa Lake, Lake Herman,
Lake Erie and Vancouver Lake has been a continuing part of the
laboratory program.
Shagawa Lake Program
In situ assay experiments were terminated in early October
owing to the onset of the northern Minnesota winter. A short-
term cooperative program with the U. S. Forest Service to determine
the feasibility of phosphorus removal from Shagawa Lake water was
carried out utilizing the pilot plant. A decision has been made by
headquarters to install a full-scale tertiary treatment plant to
process the entire output of secondary sewage effluent from the city
of Ely. Further evaluation of the biostimulatory characteristics of
the Ely secondary effluent will be made through production of N-
stripped effluent at the Shagawa Lake lab and the conduct of PAAP
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tests on this effluent at P.NWL. Clinoptilolite is being used as the
N-removing agent. Data reduction and workup have been the principal
occupation of the Ely staff apart from the above operations.
Grant and Contract Research
The following applications for research funding were reviewed
by personnel of the Ecological Control Branch during the second
quarter:
1. Control of Undesirable Aquatic Vegetation in Lake Taneycomo,
Missouri.
2. Eutrophication in Relation to Agricultural Practice.
3. Effect of Sewage Effluents on Algae in Shagawa Lake,
Minnesota.
4. Nutrient Dynamics in an Artificially Enriched Lake.
5. Nitrate Removal from Water at the Water-Mud Interface in
Swamps, Marshes, and Flooded Soils.
Areas of Concern
The City of Ely appears to be making little progress toward
funding necessary repair of the municipal sewage collection system.
Headquarters has promised assistance in resolving the problems, but
this has not materialized.
Manpower and budgetary shortages have resulted in greatly reduced
progress in all areas of research including data workup and reporting.
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Plans for Third Quarter, FY 1970
We will continue to push strongly for the establishment of
full-scale lake restoration programs. The lake chain at Albany will
be investigated with this in mind. Field work will otherwise be at
a minimum, except for rainfall collection and one or two trips to
Upper Klamath Lake. As much progress as possible will be made on
reporting of results from Shagawa, Sal lie, Upper Klamath, and Waldo
Lakes, and from Cline's Pond.
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WASTE TREATMENT RESEARCH & TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM
General
Dr. Bartsch and Mr. Boydston participated in a program review
at headquarters for the 1200 series programs. Future program priori-
ties were discussed.
PAPER & ALLIED PRODUCTS RESEARCH - 910101/1204
Status of Activities and Significant Accomplishments
Our inhouse cooperative work with Crown-Zellerbach, Lebanon pro-
ject, has, for the past quarter, been principally concerned with the
influence of phosphorus on sludge volume and settling, and micro-
fermenter studies in series and parallel preparatory to series opera-
tion at Lebanon.
The Beloit-Passavant microsieve was to be delivered in December
1969. Delays have been encountered. In the meantime contacts have
been made with the industry to determine interest in use of the
equipment on a loan basis, in return for data collected on selected
waste streams. In view of manpower restrictions, this may be our
best avenue to worthwhile information with this equipment. Weyer-
haeuser Co., Boise Cascade, Georgia-Pacific, Crown-Zellerbach Corp.,
and Publishers Paper have all evidenced interest and have suggested
areas for experimental use.
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Grant and Contract Research
The Crown-Zellerbach, Lebanon, R&D grant, earlier beset by
many delaying difficulties, is now producing very worthwhile data.
Progress on the R&D grant to OSU on Sphaerotilus studies has been
delayed due to personnel changes. Dr. Pascha has left OSU and
Dr. Anderson, Microbiology Department, is now principal investigator.
Grant administration and grant review occupied the majority
of the period. Fundings are in progress for three additional R&D
projects in PPB 1204. One of these projects is located in the
Pacific Northwest Region.
Areas of Concern
The continued lack of resources prevents more than token effort
on in-house studies and hampers adequate surveillance of ongoing
grant projects.
Plans for Third Quarter. FY 1970
Continue grant monitoring and review.
Explore possibilities for loan of microsieve pilot plant unit
to industry since resources limitations prevent in-house use.
We have received program approval for initiation of an in-house
study to evaluate regrowth of coliform and fecal coliform in pulp and
paper wastes. At the same time, the States of Oregon, Washington,
and Idaho have requested the assistance of the Regional Office in
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accomplishing similar work. Ultimately, this interest should extend
to any high nutrient wastes such as those from potato and sugar pro-
cessing. For the present, our interest will concern pulp and paper
sources in Oregon and Washington. Selected primary and secondary
systems will be sampled.
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FOOD WASTE RESEARCH - 910101/1206
Status of Activities and Significant Accomplishments
A National Canners Association's (NCA) Research Highlights Pro-
gram was attended. Discussions centered around current problems of
the industry and NCA research plans for 1970.
Discussions were held with personnel from the Bureau of
Commercial Fisheries and from Food, Chemical and Research Labora-
tories, Inc., regarding a grant application from the City of Kodiak,
Alaska.
Both small-scale anaerobic trickling filters were operated
throughout the quarter. Influent strength has varied from 2000 to
250 mg/1 BOD as processing has shifted from corn to beets to carrots.
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The hydraulic load has been varied on both units in an attempt to
increase the organic loading. Unit 1 which had an average detention
time of 6.4 days reduced the BOD and SS by an average of 75 percent.
Unit 2 with a detention time of 5.8 days reduced the BOD by 93 per-
cent and the SS by 76 percent. The poorer performances of unit 1
is probably a result of a lack of feed due to pump problems for
several days during the quarter. After resumption of feeding, the
BOD removal dropped to less than 50 percent and a couple of weeks
were necessary before reductions exceeded 90 percent.
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Operation of the aerated lagoon pilot plant at the United
Flav-R-Pac Cannery in Salem, Oregon, continued throughout the quarter.
The hydraulic loading was increased stepwise such that the liquid
detention was reduced from 10 days to 3.7 days. With the influent
BOD concentration varying from 260 to 1400 mg/1, the loading in Ibs
BOD/day/lb MLVSS varied from 0.1 to 1.0. Reduction in BOD ranged
from 41 to over 95 percent with an average of 82 percent. Two weeks
of results were well below average and this may have been due to
the lack of sufficient inorganic nutrients. During that time the
BOD:N:P ratio was less than 100:2:0.6. Very little useful data was
collected on the second pilot plant located at the Salem cannery. The
Rotating Biological Contactor (RBC) unit was plagued with opera-
tional problems. The principal problem was the almost continuous
failure of shear pins which connect the shaft of the rotating discs
to the drive shaft. Once they sheared the rotation of the discs
would stop and the biological growth on the discs would slough.
The pilot plant was finally shut down and modified so that larger
shear pins could be used. If time is available, next quarter the
unit will be started again.
Plans were initiated for a three-day symposium on R&D work in
food waste treatment. Two days will be devoted principally to
ongoing grants and the third day will be handled by the Agriculture
Research Service, USDA; other sponsors include the National Canners
Association and the Western Frozen Food Association.
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Grant and Contract Research
The following grant proposals and preproposals were received for
review:
1. Demonstration of a Process for Economically Converting Sea
Food Plant Waste to By-Products.
2. By-Product Recovery from Sweet Whey Processing Wastes.
3. Optimization of Bakery Wastewater Treatment.
4. Water and Waste Management in Sweet Potato Processing.
5. Activated Sludge-Bio-Disc Treatment of Distillery Wastes.
6. Pollution Control Program--Aroostook River and Prestile
Stream, Coordinated Municipal-Industrial Approach.
7. Dry-Caustic Peeling of Tree Fruit.
During the quarter the following grants were awarded:
1. Reduction of Salt Content of Food Processing Liquid Waste
Effluent, National Canners Association, Berkeley, California, FWPCA
Grant - $64,382. Total Project Cost - $94,208.
2. A Method of Manure Disposal for a Beef Packing Operation,
Illinois Packing Co., Chicago, Illinois, FWPCA Grant - $93,400; Total
Project Cost - $156,000.
3. Elimination of Water Pollution by Packing House Animal
Paunch and Blood, Beefland International, Inc., Council Bluffs, Iowa,
FWPCA Grant - $161,398. Total Project Cost - $367,870.
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4. Winery Wastewater—Characterization and Treatment, Widmer's
Wine Cellars, Inc., Naples, New York. FWPCA Grant - $148,000. Total
Project Cost - $284,000.
5. Vermont Cheese Industry Pollution Abatement Project, State
of Vermont. FWPCA Grant - $823,120. Total Project Cost - $3,700,000.
These grants bring the total number to 45 in the PPB 1206 area.
Of these, 36 are in the assigned area of responsibility of the Food
Waste Research Branch. The 36 have a total estimated project cost
of over $18,700,000 with FWPCA grant monies of over $6,300,000.
Current status of grants which have been assigned (project
officer) to the Food Waste Research Branch is as follows:
1. 12060 EHS. "Cannery Waste Treatment by Lagoons and
Oxidation Ditch," Melbourne Water Science Institute, Melbourne,
Victoria, Australia. Vegetable and fruit wastes are being treated
in two anaerobic lagoons followed by an oxidation ditch. Various
organic loadings are being investigated along with varying BOD:N
ratios in the influent.
2. 12060 EHV. "Aerobic Secondary Treatment of Potato Pro-
cessing Wastes with Mechanical Aeration," The R. T. French Co.,
Shelley, Idaho. Following the correction of many mechanical,
electrical, etc. problems, the system is finally functioning pro-
perly. Even though the BOD load is near 27,000 Ibs/day compared
to a design value of 14,200 Ibs/day, the BOD is currently being
reduced by 92 to 96 percent.
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3. 12060 FAD. "Pollution Prevention by Aeration of Fruit
Processing Wastes," Snokist Growers, Yakima, Washington. The final
report has been reproduced and forwarded to headquarters for distri-
bution.
4. 12060 DSI. "State of Art, Sugarbeet Processing Waste Treat-
ment," Beet Sugar Development Foundation, Fort Collins, Colorado.
Some onsite visits were made and work has started on the first draft
of the final report.
5. 12060 ECF. "Water Pollution Abatement in the United States
Seafood Industry: State of the Art," Oregon State University,
Corvallis, Oregon. The first draft of the final report is nearly
complete.
6. 11060 EZR. "Complete Aerobic Treatment of Combined
Domestic and Industrial Wastes with Mechanical Aeration," City of
Dallas, Oregon. A revised testing program was completed and the
schedule was followed during the quarter. The influent BOD has
dropped from a monthly average of 310 for September to about 100
for December. This is a result of increased infiltration and the
termination of processing at the cannery. Throughout this period
the effluent BOD and SS has averaged less than 10 mg/1.
7. 12060 EIG. "Full-Scale Demonstration and Evaluation of
Potato Dry and Wet Caustic Peeling Processes," Western Potato Service,
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Inc., Grand Forks, North Dakota. Sampling and analyses plans have
been completed for both processing plants. Nearly all the equipment
has been installed for conversion of the Grand Forks plant to the
"dry caustic" peel.
8. WPD 93-04-68. "Anaerobic-Aerobic Sugar Beet Waste Treat-
ment," Beet Sugar Development Foundation, Fort Collins, Colorado.
The first draft of the final report is still in preparation.
9. WP-01486-01. "Status and Research Needs for Potato Waste
Waters," University of Washington, Seattle, Washington. The final
report has been sent to the printer for reproduction.
Drafts of final reports have been reviewed for the following
grants in addition to those for numbers 3 and 9 above.
1. Improvements of Treatment of Food Industry, RAI Research
Corp., Long Island City, New York.
2. Use of Fungi Imperfecti in Waste Control, North Star R&D
Institute, Minneapolis, Minnesota.
Areas of Concern
Grant monitoring continues to suffer due to a lack of manpower
and money.
Plans for Third Quarter, FY 1970
1. Continue grant monitoring and reviewing.
2. Continue pilot plants until processing stops.
3. Complete planning for three-day symposium.
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REGIONAL RESEARCH STUDIES - 910101/1208
Status of Projects and Significant Accomplishments
Aerated Lagoon Treatment of Food Processing Wastes
The final report "Secondary Treatment of Potato Processing Waste"
has been published and distributed, and this project is officially
closed.
Waste Treatment at Recreational Areas. Project No. 0970-208-11
The working paper on evaluation of extended aeration treatment
at recreation areas has been submitted for publication. The final
report is in draft form and is receiving preliminary review.
Log Handling and Storage. Project No. 0970-208-12
All field and laboratory work has been completed and data is
being evaluated. Work has started on a draft of the final report.
Animal Feedlot Waste Disposal, Project No. 0970-208-15
Meetings have been held with various state cattlemen's
associations, and all have promised maximum cooperation in connection
with this study. Cooperation in obtaining state inventories of
cattle feedlots is also being obtained from the U. S. Department of
Agriculture State Statisticians, for a fee. The project proposal has
been prepared and reviewed, and work is progressing.
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Other Activities
Work is progressing on the evaluation of biological pilot plant
treatment of steam vat condensates in plywood plants, and report
preparation is in progress.
Collection of data to serve as the basis for a regional pesticide
status report has now been completed, and is being sorted. Generally
it reveals that many agencies are involved, but few have well
developed or coordinated programs.
Personnel are being provided to Food Wastes Research and Paper
and Allied Products Research to support the total research program
in those areas.
Grant and Contract Research
A draft of the final report on Storm and Combined Sewer Contract
14-12-128 was submitted and reviewed. It has been sent, with comments,
to the Contracting Officer for submission to the contractor.
Areas of Concern
Due to limited funds and positions in the Food Wastes and Paper
and Allied Products Research areas, these areas are receiving person-
nel support from Regional Research Studies. Fund limitations have
necessitated reductions of temporary employees and eliminated all but
the most critical expenditures for travel and supplies. The recently
acquired Laboratory trailer cannot presently be utilized due to lack
of funds for needed equipment and supplies. Publication of reports
will be held to a minimum number because of the lack of funds.
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Reports and Papers
A draft of the Pilot Plant Treatment of Steam Vat Condensates
in Plywood Plants is being prepared.
The working paper on Evaluation of Extended Aeration Treat-
ment at Recreation Areas has been submitted for publication.
The final report on aerated lagoon treatment of food processing
wastes has been published and distributed. It is "Secondary Treat-
ment of Potato Processing Wastes."
Plans for Third Quarter. FY 1970
Waste Treatment at Recreation Areas, Project No. 0969-208-11
The final report will be revised and reviewed. Completion of
this project and report is now estimated at 1 June 1970.
Log Handling and Storage, Project No. 0969-208-12
Draft of final report will be completed.
Animal Feedlot Waste Disposal, Project No. 0970-208-15
Inventory of feedlots will be completed, and limited field
studies will be initiated.
Other
The regional pesticide status report will be completed.
The report on .-Steam Vat Condensate Treatment will be nearing
completion.
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As projects are completed, new projects will be developed
within existing personnel and budgetary limitations.
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NATIONAL THERMAL POLLUTION RESEARCH PROGRAM
910101/1613
Status of Projects and Significant Accomplishments
Consultation and Advisory Services
Comments were provided the Northwest Region on a draft, "Basic
Data Needs for Thermal Power Plant Site Evaluation," re. Washington
Water Quality Standards. Also, Mr. Rainwater and Dr. Tichenor met
with Dr. Zeller of the Northwest Region to discuss pre-siting
surveys for future power plants within the Region.
Technical assistance was provided the Southeast Region in the
form of a digest of the status of technology relative to the Turkey
Point nuclear power station. We also supplied the Southeast Region
with computations of energy budget parameters.
Information was furnished the Assistant Director for Engineering,
headquarters, on research topics for improved water pollution tech-
nology in the Great Lakes -- "Suggestions for Research Plan for the
Great Lakes;" re. Section 15, H. R. 4148.
Computations on cooling pond performance and evaporation losses
were provided the River Basins Planning Branch at headquarters; also
supplied was information on North Anna Power Station, Virginia.
Information on calculating incoming short-wave solar radiation
was furnished the Systems Analysis and Economics Branch, Division
of Technical Control, headquarters.
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Effects of Temperature on Fresh and Marine Fish Species
See Biological Effects Research Program report, page 34.
Engineering and Cost Aspects of Heat Dissipation
Working Paper #67, "Economic Aspects of Thermal Pollution Control
in the Electric Power Industry," was completed and distributed to all
Regions, Laboratories and individuals in headquarters.
A computer program for predicting performance of natural draft
cooling towers was put on FWPCA IBM System 360 in headquarters.
Final draft of a working paper, "A Method for Predicting the
Performance of Natural Draft Cooling Towers," was completed.
General
While attending the ASCE Meeting, October 14-17, Dr. Tichenor
participated in a meeting of the Committee on Thermal Power,
Sanitary Engineering Division, ASCE, on October 15.
On October 22, Mr. Rainwater attended a meeting called by the
Commissioner to consider policy relative to thermal pollution control.
Two staff papers were prepared concerning the nationwide feasibility
of cooling towers and cooling ponds.
Mr. Wallace Allen and Mr. Russell Miner, engineers with PG&E
in San Francisco, visited with NTPRP staff to obtain technical infor-
mation which would be helpful in their model development, as they are
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in the process of developing temperature prediction techniques for
the Sacramento Delta area, using both physical and mathematical
models. Also present was Mr. Phil Woods, representing the Southwest
Region.
Dr. Bartsch presented an address "Thermal Effects on Ecological
Systems" at the Northwest Conference on the Role of Nuclear Energy,
Dec. 4-5, 1969, in Portland, Oregon.
In October Mr. Rainwater gave a talk to the Northwest Water
Supply and Pollution Control Commission on the subject, "Temperature
Controls in Thermal Power Development."
On November 19, Mr. Rainwater participated as a panelist on
the program of the National ASME Meeting in Los Angeles -- Open Forum
on Heat Dissipation.
Mr. Rainwater appeared on Channel 7 television, November 21, to
discuss the thermal pollution problem.
Dr. Shirazi spent ten days at Colorado State University to per-
form the initial phase of a joint research project with U. S. Geological
Survey.
Grant and Contract Research
NTPRP commented to the TVA on a proposal for installation of a
catfish farming facility adjacent to the Gal latin Steam Plant,
Gallatin, Tennessee.
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An inquiry from Washington Environmental Council on power plant
siting and thermal pollution control was reviewed.
Messrs. Rainwater, Tichenor, Christiansen, and Winiarski met with
Dynatech personnel to review results of the second phase of the
Dynatech contract.
Dr. Shirazi was visited by Dr. Koh, Tetra Tech Corp., to discuss
and outline the direction of our contract with them on studies of
thermal outfalls.
The final report of our contract with Water Resources Engineers,
"Formulation of a General Mathematical Model for the Prediction of
Thermal Energy Changes in Impoundments," was received.
Headquarters began contract negotiation for a study on the
economic analysis of thermal pollution abatement costs in the electric
power industry.
Technical reviews of proposals for research grants, demonstra-
tion grants and contracts were provided for the following subjects:
1. Liquid nitrogen cooled condenser in power plants.
2. Experimental investigation of spray system for atmospheric
heat dissipation.
3. The closed cycle gas turbine as a thermal pollution control
measure.
4. The feasibility of developing an advanced power generating
system free of atmospheric and thermal pollution.
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5. Thermal pollution.
6. A suggested program for the control of water thermal pollu-
tion from large power plants employing advanced cooling tower tech-
nology.
7. Future power system evolution.
Mathematical model for thermal response.
8. Proposal to raise catfish at TVA's Gallatin Steam Plant.
9. Thermal pollution control of plant effluents by "land cool-
ing" method.
10. Project for concentrated research and training in hydrologic
and hydraulic aspects of thermal pollution control (Continuation).
11. Thermal stratification and reservoir water quality (Continua-
tion).
12. Effect of thermal pollution on ability of coho salmon to
adapt to sea water.
13. Ecological changes in the Mississippi River.
14. Prediction and control of thermal pollution (Continuation).
15. Predicting water quality change in reservoirs using operators
research techniques.
16. An experimental and analytical study of some basic heat
and mass transfer problems related to thermal pollution.
17. Intensive production of animal protein by culture of fish
in raceways supplied with warm water.
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18. Analysis of engineering alternatives for environmental
protection from thermal discharges.
19. Effects of diffusers on the mixing process at discharge
outfalls.
Reports and Papers
Working Paper #67 on "Economic Aspects of Thermal Pollution
Control in the Electric Power Industry," was completed and distri-
buted.
A "canned" slide-illustrated talk on thermal pollution that
other FWPCA personnel can give, or use as source material, was made
available to all Regions and Laboratories of FWPCA.
Plans for Third Quarter, FY 1970
A paper by Drs. Ronald Garton and Ralph Harkins "Guidelines and
Statistical Analysis of Biologic Data at Potential Sites of Heat
Discharges," will be published.
Draft of a paper, "Reflective Cooling Ponds," is expected to
be completed in January, 1970,
A working paper on the field study will be published.
"A Method for Predicting the Performance of Counterflow Natural
Draft Cooling Towers," is in the process of being published as a
working paper.
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BIOLOGICAL EFFECTS RESEARCH PROGRAM
Status of Projects and Significant Accomplishments
Thermal Pollution Studies
1. Tissue Enzyme Studies:
This project area was reactivated recently and various tests
and modifications of temperature regulation equipment were completed.
Currently the equipment is functioning at acceptable levels.
The effects of temperature were determined relative to
heart rates and body weightless of jack coho salmon.
Tests for inactivation of enzymes in vivo were resumed and
are proceeding according to plan.
2. Simulation of Adult Coho Salmon Migration Through Elevated
Temperatures:
Adult and jack coho were collected from the spawning run
into the Bonneville hatchery (Oregon Fish Commission) and were
acclimated during a week to test temperatures of 50F, 62F, 68F (legal
maximum), and 72F. Each test group contained about 25 jacks and 34
adults, and was exposed to the above temperatures for the time
required to migrate between the ocean and Bonneville (9 days); there-
after all tanks were returned to 50F simulating entrance into natal
streams for spawning. The experiment continued until all the fish
had died or become sexually ripe and could be spawned.
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The adult fish died quite rapidly at 72F (22.5C) and none survived
to spawn. This portion of the experiment was repeated using only a
2.5-day exposure to 72F. The resulting mortality was less severe,
but none of the females survived to spawn. Progressively lower test
temperatures also had progressively higher survival and sexual ripe-
ness was achieved in these test lots. Spawn was collected and its
incubation is proceeding. Fertilization and hatching success are being
evaluated.
The presence of fish diseases and the effects of elevated
temperatures were examined but these data are not complete at this
time. After the last fish was spawned, the Bonneville facility was
dismantled or winterized and placed in storage.
The results of the study are being evaluated and a rough draft
report will be available soon.
Waste Treatment Studies
Attempts to achieve natural spawning of adult coho were un-
successful when they were held in an artificial spawning chamber.
This chamber was about 3.5 feet wide by 7.5 feet long and was supplied
with creek water at about 40 gpm. Coarse gravel was added to a
depth of 6-8 inches and water depth was about 12 inches. Salmon placed
in the creek spawned under similar conditions in one or two days. When
sexually ripe salmon were placed in the chamber they dug redds but
failed to deposit eggs in 10 days. Additional research will be
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necessary before tests can be conducted in this manner on pollution
effects to salmon spawning.
Several materials were used in tests for adverse effects to the
fertilization of coho salmon eggs including kraft wastes, sulfite
wastes, copper ions, ammonia, and pH. Incubation is proceeding but
development of the embryos has been extremely slow due to the cold
water.
Meetings
In November, Dr. Bouck attended a portion of the Annual Personnel
Officers' Conference held in Kansas City, Missouri. At the request
of Assistant Commissioner Grant, he participated in discussions being
held regarding the new Career Development Plan for Professional,
Scientific, and Engineering Personnel.
Grant and Contract Research
Personnel in the Biological Effects Branch continue to
manage two research grants.
Areas of Concern
Facilities and quality and quantity of water supply continue to
limit the productivity of the Biological Effects Research Program.
The studies on thermal effects to adult salmon have produced
more questions than answers, partly because the facilities allowed
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no replication of the tests and partly because this is a relatively
unexplored area of research. At present, there are no plans to con-
tinue this research, but such plans should be developed and funded.
Considerable mortality has decreased the supply of coho salmon
post-smelts and this may preclude their use in the tissue enzyme
study. The cause of this mortality is unknown.
Plans for Third Quarter, FY 1970
1. Simulation of Adult Salmon Migration Through Elevated
Temperatures and the Effects on Gametes and Progeny:
The main effort will be the analysis of data and develop-
ment of a final report on this project.
2. Tissue Enzyme Studies:
In vivo effects of high but sublethal temperatures will be
determined in as many species as possible.
3. Waste Treatment Studies:
Pending the results of this year's coho fertilization
studies, various toxicants will be tested on steel head spawn. Test
facilities for conducting acute and chronic toxicity studies will be
completed and utilized.
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CONSOLIDATED LABORATORY SERVICES PROGRAM
Status of Projects and Significant Accomplishments
The backlog of analyses has been stabilized at approximately
1000+ determinations. A special technique was initiated to determine
total phosphorus and total nitrogen of algae entrapped on three-
micron Millipore filters. Replication of results has not yet been
obtained. Efforts will continue to improve the technique.
The carbon and nitrogen in plant samples collected at Lake
Sal lie are being analyzed with the Hewlett Packard Carbon-Hydrogen-
Nitrogen Analyzer.
Success is being achieved with the use of the Turner Model 210
Spectrofluorometer as an instrument capable of tracing Kraft liquor
discharges in marine waters. An empirical method has been formulated
using Kraft liquor from a specificmill as a standard and diluting
this with sea water collected near but not under the influence of the
mill. By establishing a standard series of dilutions with specific
excitation and measurement for fluorescence, the concentration of
Kraft liquor can be measured from grab samples collected in the
vicinity of the mill discharge. In this manner, the flow pattern
of the mill plume can be determined. The above study on fluorescence
is closely coordinated with the National Coastal Pollution Research
Program.
Automated Analytical Systems
A thermocouple has been installed in the digestion unit of the
Technicon Kjeldahl digestor in an attempt to optimize temperature
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conditions for digestion of samples. Good results have been obtained
with standards using the Kjeldahl digester. Because problems are
still being experienced with recovery of spiked samples, Kjeldahl
determinations will be made manually with the use of semi-micro
Aminco technique until all problems are solved.
Gas r.hrnmat.ngraphir Analysis
Pollution Surveillance samples are routinely being examined
for chlorinated pesticides by the Portland laboratory. The Portland
lab is now receiving fewer samples from oil spills than in the past.
Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometry
As of December 1, 1969, CIS is using preservative techniques
and methodology specified in FWPCA Methods for Chemical Analysis
of Water and Wastes, November 1969. Some minor changes in
concentrations of preservatives were made. The major change
attempted was the use of chelation of metals with ADPC and
extraction of the chelate with MIBK. An unsuccessful attempt
was made to set up standards with this procedure and attempts
were made to try to recover spike additions without success.
Analysis of individual metals (copper, zinc, iron, and lead)
was attempted with success being achieved only for copper. At
the end of December 1969, CIS is back to the concentration of
metals by evaporation. The procedure of concentration by
evaporation is less time-consuming and better recovery of spikes
is achieved.
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Biology
The log storage study is in the report writing phase. There is
some backlog in examining plankton on Waldo Lake. Considerable
effort is being expended on trying to concentrate plankton for
enumeration and identification. The oligotrophic condition of
Waldo Lake is presenting problems in quantifying and identifying
the plankton.
General
CLSP suffered the loss of five temporary employees. Although
its net loss was only three with subsequent transfers, the impact
was felt and resulted in some effect on morale. The enthusiasm
and work efforts of the remaining members of CLSP have overcome
the transient loss of morale and productivity is again high.
Reports and Papers
A talk on Dissolved Oxygen Uptake of Dredge Materials was
presented at the Annual Meeting of the Pacific Northwest Pollution
Control Association. The talk will serve as a basis for a paper to
be presented to the Journal Water Pollution Control Federation.
Equipment
CLSP is still awaiting approval for the use of no year funds
to modify and update the carbonaceous analyzer. The gas partitioner
has been repaired and will be put into operation.
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Plans for Third Quarter, FY 1970
CLSP will work to resolve problems in the variability in
membrane filters as to weight, total Kjeldahl nitrogen, and total
phosphorus. The gas partitioner will be used for the analysis
of gases dissolved in water and for the analysis of volatile
acids in waste streams. Efforts will be continued in trying to
reduce the backlog.
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TRAINING AND MANPOWER DEVELOPMENT
910205/001
Status of Projects and Significant Accomplishments
Direct Training
"Basic Principles of Wastewater Treatment Operation" training
course was presented in Anchorage, Alaska, October 13-17, for 34
students. The same course was presented at the Laboratory,
November 17-21, for a total of 26 students.
"Freshwater Biology and Pollution Ecology" and "Membrane
Filter Methods in Water Pollution Surveillance" training
courses were presented in the Laboratory for 26 USGS students
from December 8-19. These courses were planned and directed
by the Cincinnati training staff, with the assistance of
Laboratory Training staff.
The Regional Manpower and Training Director attended a
national conference on operator training and a Regional Training
Officers meeting in Atlanta, Georgia, during the quarter.
Cooperative Area Manpower Planning System
Visits have been made to Portland, Oregon, and Seattle,
Washington, to monitor progress of their sewage treatment
plant operator programs.
Approximately 120 manhours of teaching assistance was
provided Linn-Benton Community College during the quarter.
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Conferences were held with staff at Washington State
University and at Green River Community College, Auburn,
Washington, regarding sewage treatment plant operator training
programs.
Public Relations
Tours and orientation were given for approximately 160
people during the quarter and the water pollution control films
were loaned for viewing by approximately 800 people. Over
1,500 pieces of literature were distributed.
Plans for the Third Quarter, FY 70
"Sewage Treatment Facilities for Federal Installations"
January 19-30, 1970.
"Chemical Analyses for Water Quality" March 2-13, 1970.
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