ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
OFFICE OF ENFORCEMENT
EPA-330/2 78-010
Biological Impact of Discharges
Coffeen Generating Station
Central Illinois Public Service Company
Coffeen, IIIinois
(NOVEMBER 15-19, 1977]
NATIONAL ENFORCEMENT INVESTIGATIONS CENTER
DENVER. COLORADO
JUNE 1978
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Enviromental Protection Agency
Office of Enforcement
EPA-330/2-78-010
BIOLOGICAL IMPACT OF DISCHARGES
COFFEEN GENERATING STATION
CENTRAL ILLINOIS PUBLIC SERVICE COMPANY
COFFEEN, ILLINOIS
[November 15 - 19, 1977]
June 1978
National Enforcement Investigations Center
Denver, Colorado
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I. INTRODUCTION
CONTENTS
1
II. SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS
III. RESULTS OF FIELD INVESTIGATION
WATER QUALITY
PHYTOPLANKION
BENTI-IIC MACROINVERTEBRATES
FISH
IV. METHODS
5
7
7
11
13
13
1. Sampling Locations
2. Field Measurements & Analytical Data
3. Lake Coffeen Phytoplankton
4. Benthic Macroinvertebrates
5. Lake Coffeen Fish Population
6. Lake Coffeen Fish Condition Factors
1. Lake Coffeen, Ill, and Sampling Locations
2. Isarthermal Map Discharge Arm of
Lake Coffeen (Inside Back Cover)
3. Isarthermal Map of Lake Coffeen
(Inside Back Cover)
REFERENCES
18
21
TABLES
8
9
12
14
15
16
FIGURES
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I. INTRODUCTION
In September 1974, National Pollutant Discharge Elimination
System (NPDES) Permit No. 1L0000108 was issued to the Central
Illinois Public Service Company (CIPSCO) for discharge from the
Coffeen Power Station to Lake Coffeen. From the date of permit
issuance until July 1, 1977, the Company failed to report the quality
of its effluents to EPA; since July 1, 1977, reported effluent qual-
ity frequently did not meet permit limitations. In addition, the
permit required the installation of chemical control equipment by
July 1, 1977; Company schedules indicate noncompliance with this re-
quirement until 1979. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Region V Enforcement Division filed a civil complaint against the
Company with the U.S. District Court.
Region V expressed concern that the pollution abatement measures
proposed by CIPSCO are inadequate to protect the biota of Lake
Coffeen; even if mineralization was abated, the heat of the discharge
could be damaging. The NEIC was requested to conduct a water quality
investigation of Lake Coffeen to assess the impact of discharges from
the Coffeen Power Station.
Lake Coffeen is a 445 hectare (1,100 acre) impoundment of
McDavid Branch, a tributary to Shoal Creek in Montgomery County in
southcentral Illinois [ Figure 1]. The impoundment, constructed by
the Central Illinois Public Service Company in the early 1960’s to
provide water for the Coffeen Power Station, is considered by the
State of Illinois to be a public water. From 1965 into the early
1970’s, the Station operated one unit which generated about 350 MWe
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2
. I U
z 4 &
s,s 4
County Road
V.
-4.
‘v .
ISCHAR3 E@
Figure 1. Lake Coffeen, Illinois, and Sampling Locations
4.
C
0
A
-N-
COFFEEN
4 %
___ c
4%
4%
ASH POND
0
Scale ;
Miles
DA
November, 1977
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3
of electric power. In 1975, a second unit was added which increased
the plant capacity to 945 MWe. The Station withdraws water from a
cove about one-third of the lake length, or about 1.5 mi (2.4 km)
north of the dam, and discharges wastewaters to a cove near the dam.
The distance from the discharge to the intake is about 4 mi (6.4 km).
The potential exists for short-circuiting; wastewaters could be drawn
into the intake without complete mixing with the northern portion of
the lake. Also, an earth-fill railroad embankment that divides the
lake may interfere with complete circulation.
Data submitted by the Company to the Illinois Pollution Control
Board as part of a thermal demonstration,* document severe chemical
quality deterioration of Lake Coffeeri between 1965 and 1976, pri-
marily since 1974. For example, alkalinity decreased from about 120
to 20 mg/i, and total dissolved solids increased from about 300 to
more than 1,000 mg/i. Mineralization of Lake Coffeen can be attri-
buted in part to evaporative losses aggravated by thermal additions
of the power plant, and because there were no discharges over the
spiliway since the spring of 1975. Over the years, the Company has
needed to use ever-increasing amounts of caustic soda and acid for
demineral ization.
Numerous problems have become apparent in the Lake Coffeen
biota. The lake is reported to be the third most eutrophic among the
Illinois lakes studied by EPA.’ Blooms of blue-green algae have ap-
peared as early as April. Company data 2 indicate a paucity of macro-
invertebrates, and fish populations appear to be affected (younger
fish in emaciated conditions, low numbers of important game fish,
etc.).
* Illinois Pollution Control Board Rules and Regulations,
Chapter 3: Rule 203 (i) (10).
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4
The Central Illinois Public Service Company intends to install
dry processes for handling ash, a means of pumping make-up water from
Shoal Creek, and other pollution controls at the Coffeen Power Station.
The Company contends that by reversing Lake Coffeen mineralization,
the biological problems will be abated. 2 They have requested the
Illinois Pollution Control Board to establish thermal standards
(water at the edge of a mixing zone not to exceed 98°F more than 8.2%
of the time in any 12-month period and at no time exceeding 108°F)
based upon reported operating conditions from 1965 through 1976.
The NEIC conducted an investigation at Lake Coffeen during the
period November 15 to 19, 1977. Emphasis was placed on determining
the effects of the power plant discharge on the fish and other
aquatic biota of Lake Coffeen. This report discusses the findings of
the NEIC investigation.
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II. SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS
1. Water quality in Lake Coffeen was degraded by discharges
from the Coffeen Generating Station. The entire lake was mineralized,
with high conductivities, low alkalinities, and high concentrations
of calcium, magnesium, sodium and sulfate. Boron concentrations (4.4
to 5.3 mg/l) were sufficiently high to make the water unsafe for
irrigation of sensitive crops. Dissolved oxygen concentrations and
pH values were suitable for fish and other aquatic life. Lake Coffeen
temperatures were highest in the discharge arm, with a gradual de-
crease from south to north. There was a marked temperature decrease
(2.5°C) between the waters immediately south and north of the rail-
road embankment.
2. Phytoplankton were dominated by bluegreen algae; this is
considered to be an undesirable characteristic. The dominance by
blue-green algae in November is an indication of unnaturally elevated
lake temperatures.
3. The low numbers and diversities of benthic invertebrates
reflected the poor quality of Lake Coffeen waters.
4. Lake Coffeen fish populations were influenced severely by
the power plant discharges. Overall, there were relatively few im-
portant game fish, and most of the fish were thin and in poor con-
dition. Fish inhabiting the area north of the railroad embankment
were least affected by the discharges. There were more game fish in
this area, and the fish were in better condition. It is concluded
that the better condition of the fishery north of the railroad
-------
embankment is the result of lower temperatures, and that the area
north of the railroad embankment probably does not serve as a sanc-
tuary for fish migrations from the southern portion of the lake.
6
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III. RESULTS OF FIELD INVESTIGATION
WATER QUALITY
Locations at which samples were collected from Lake Coffeen are
listed in Table 1 and illustrated in Figure 1. The quality of Lake
Coffeen water was degraded by the power station discharge. Although
runoff from McDavid Branch (estimated 10 cfs) on the sampling day
appeared to dilute the mineral content at Station 29, all portions of
the lake examined contained high concentrations of minerals [ Table 2].
Concentrations of some chemicals were slightly lower in the portion
of the lake north of the railroad embankment than those found in the
southern portion, but the differences in concentration are insignificant.
For example, concentrations of calcium, magnesium and sodium as high
as 163, 27.1 and 177 mg/i, respectively, were detected in the northern
portion, while in the southern portion concentrations of these chemicals
ranged as high as 171, 28.9 and 188 mg/i. Sulfate concentrations
ranged from 690 to 790 mg/l north of the railroad bridge and from 790
to 840 mg/i north of the railroad bridge and from 790 to 840 mg/i to
the south. These values indicate that both the northern and southern
portions of the Lake Coffeen are heavily mineralized. The mineral-
ization of Lake Coffeen was reflected by the high conductivities
which ranged from 1,450 to 1,850 pmho/cm. Alkalinities in the lake
were low, ranging from 30.4 to 69.3 mg/l.
Boron concentrations ranged from 4.4 to 5.3 mg/i in the lake.
Although these concentrations are in a range widely reported to be
safe for aquatic biota (most investigators report toxicity of boron
to fish when levels are in excess of 3,000 mg/i 3 ), there is cause for
concern. Recent investigations have developed evidence that boron
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Table I
SAMPLING LOCATIONS
LAKE COFFEEN, ILLINOIS
November 1977
Station Fi
No. Water (Gill net & trap)
sh
(Electrofishing) Benthos Plankton
1 X
2 X x
3 X
4 X
5 X X X
6 X
7 X
8 X X X X
9 X X
10 X
11 X x
12 X
13 X X
14 X X
15 X
16 X X
17 X
18 X
19 X X
20 X X
21 X
22 X X
23 X X
24 X X
25 X X X
26 X X
27 X X
28 X
29 X X
30 x
8
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2
Date
Station Nov. Time
FIELD ! .JEiISfJWNENTS AN!) ANAT.YTICAL DATA
1dIX! COPI’I KN, ILLINOIS
Novci,,bcr JO??
Specific
Total
DO Conductance
pmho/cm
Alkalinity
CaCO 3
NH -N
ni /l
TKN Total P SO a 3 Na
riig i mg/i mg/I
Depth Temp.
H °C
mg/I
pH
N0 2 +N0 -N
mg/f
mg/i
mg/i
fig
mg/i
Ca
mg/i
1
18
1230
SS 1 ’ 31.5
10.2
7.7
1,750
0.05
0.25
0.41
0.02
840
5.0
2
18
1205
SS 29.0
10.0
7.4
1,800
69.3
0.05
0.35
0.41
0.01
830
28.4
170
4
18
1245
SS 27.0
9.1
7.6
1,750
—
0.05
0.25
0.50
0.03
820
180
28.1
168
4
18
1245
7 16.5
8.0
6.9
1,850
—
0.05
0.25
0.41
0.01
860
3.0
187
27.8
169
5
18
1300
SS 28.0
7.9
7.4
1,700
30.4
0.05
0.25
0.41
0.02
830
27.8
166
5
18
1300
7.5 16.0
5.5
7.0
1,850
-
0.05
0.30
0.48
0.04
840
5.0
187
177
27.8
171
6
18
1330
SS 27.5
8.5
7.3
1,750
—
0.10
0.25
0.46
0.03
840
27.3
169
6
18
1330
6 16.0
7.0
7.1
1,800
-
0.05
0.30
0.40
0.03
820
5.1
182
28.4
165
7
18
1500
SS 19.5
7.5
7.3
1,800
-
0.05
0.30
0.49
0.03
820
5.3
27.5
162
7
18
1500
16 15.0
7.0
7.3
1,450
-
0.05
0.30
0.46
0.02
790
5.0
28.9
169
8
18
1445
SS 19.0
10.2
7.6
1,800
64.0
0.05
0.60
0.49
0.04
820
5.2
28.5
165
8
18
1445
14 15.5
7.0
7.2
1,650
-
0.05
0.25
0.49
0.03
810
5.1
171
28.5
169
9
18
1345
SS 20.5
8.2
7.3
1,650
50.4
0.05
0.25
0.49
0.03
810
27.9
165
9
18
1345
14 15.5
7.1
7.0
1,850
-
0.10
0.25
0.55
0.05
810
5.2
173
28.9
171
10
18
1515
SS 19.0
7.6
7.8
1,750
-
0.05
0.20
0.41
0.04
810
5.2
174
28.7
165
10
18
1515
15 15.0
7.1
7.2
1,800
-
0.05
0.25
0.55
0.06
820
5.2
29.0
165
11
18
1530
SS 19.0
8.1
7.7
1,800
57.8
0.10
0.36
0 46
0.03
810
28.4
167
11
18
1530
15 15.0
6.1
7.3
1,800
-
0.10
0.45
0.55
0.03
820
180
28.3
165
12
18
1545
SS 19.5
7.8
7.6
1,800
—
0.05
0.25
0.45
0.04
840
5.0
178
177
28.1
161
12
18
1545
3 17.0
7.5
7.5
1,800
—
0.05
0.25
0.48
0.03
830
- 0
28.0
165
15
18
1600
SS 17.0
7.2
7.3
1,700
-
0.05
0.20
0.41
0.02
810
4.9
172
28.3
166
15
18
1600
12 14.5
6.6
7.4
1,800
-
0.10
0.20
0.45
0.03
880
165
16
18
1610
SS 17.0
6.4
7.0
1,750
50.9
0.05
0.25
0.41
0.28
800
5.1
173
27.8
164
16
18
1610
10 15.0
6.2
7.0
1,800
-
0.10
0.30
0.41
0.04
820
27.4
169
17
18
1615
SS 17.0
6.4
7.3
1,650
-
0.10
0.20
0.45
0.03
820
5.0
175
27.3
166
17
18
1615
3.5 16.5
6.2
7.1
1,750
—
0.15
0.20
0.49
0.04
810
175
28.3
170
18
19
0915
SS 16.0
-
-
-
-
0.15
0.20
0.39
0.11
27.2
168
18
19
0915
10 14.0
-
-
—
-
0.25
0.20
5.0
175
27.7
164
19
19
0935
SS 16.0
-
-
—
53 . 6
0.10
0.25
0.60
0.42
0.05
0.03
800
5.0
171
27.6
161
19
19
0935
11 13.5
-
-
—
—
0.10
0.25
0.39
0.03
5.2
172
27.5
160
20
19
0950
SS 16.0
-
-
-
-
0.05
0.25
0.31
0.02
4.0
170
27.2
163
20
19
0950
7 15.0
—
-
—
—
0.05
0.25
0.37
0.02
5.0
174
27.9
169
21
18
1630
SS 16.0
6.8
7.5
1,800
-
0.05
0.30
0.42
0.03
840
5.3
175
27.4
168
21
18
1630
7 14.5
6.1
7.2
1,800
—
0.05
0.25
0.41
0.02
5.0
174
27.6
165
23
19
1010
SS 15.5
-
-
—
—
0.05
0.20
0.36
0.02
820
5.1
173
27.7
169
23
19
1010
6 14.0
-
-
—
—
0.05
0.25
0.31
0.02
5.1
170
27.1
162
?4
19
102’)
SS 1 5
-
-
—
-
- n.oc
‘J.25
fl.37
0.0?
820
82’)
5.0
5.0
173
177
27.4
28.?
161
164
4
25
25
26
27
29
30
19
19
19
19
19
19
19
1020
1035
1035
1055
11C0
1135
1130
8 13.5
SS 15.5
6 14.0
SS 12.5
SS 13.0
SS 9.5
SS 6.5
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
-
—
—
—
-
—
—
0.10
0.05
0.05
0.10
0.05
0.05
0.20
o. .O
0.25
0.25
0.20
0.20
0.20
0.60
0.50
0.31
0.31
0.37
0.45
0.83
0.82
0.04
0.02
0.02
0.03
0.03
0.10
0.20
810
820
820
790
790
690
62
4.8
4.9
4.9
4.7
4.8
4.4
0.1
167
176
176
170
177
160
24
27.4
27.8
28.1
27.1
26.8
24.1
16.4
159
167
167
163
160
140
56
a 5 14 1 r’ e anal oc performed after reconrnended holding time.
b 5 = r ,utzurfac .
a St -zmpla for alkali.nt -tz,’ mea3urcment collected November 18, 19?? at 1700.
d Sample for alki li;zity meaourement collected November 18, 19?? at 1705.
0
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10
concentrations as low as 0.2 mgd impair survival of embryonic and
larval channel catfish. 4 The U.S. Department of Agriculture considers
waters with more than 1.5 mg/l boron unsafe for irrigation of sensitive
crops such as navy beans, apples, cherries and many others. 5
The judgement of many investigators is that inorganic nitrogen
should not exceed 0.3 mg/i and phosphorus 0.05 mg/i if nuisance
plankton blooms are to be avoided in reservoirs. 6 Although these
values were approached in Lake Coffeen, they were not generally
exceeded [ Table 2].
Dissolved oxygen concentrations exceeded 6 mg/l in all portions
of Lake Coffeen, and the pH ranged from 6.9 to 7.8. Both of these
conditions are suitable for the establishment of healthy communities
of fish and other aquatic life.
Of the water quality constituents measured in Lake Coffeen, tem-
peratures showed the greatest extreme in range and the most con-
sistent pattern. Vertical temperature differences were pronounced in
the discharge arm of the lake (12°C difference between surface and
near-bottom), in the vicinity of Stations 4, 5 and 6 [ Figure 1].
This is the area considered by CIPSCO to be the edge of the mixing
zone, and it is apparent that complete mixing had not occurred. From
the area of the dam northward, vertical temperature differences
appeared to be depth-related; i.e. , greater surface versus bottom
temperature differences were found in deeper waters.
Horizontal temperature gradients were distinct in Lake Coffeen.
Surface waters were warmest in the discharge arm (27 to 28°C at
Stations 4, 5 and 6), about 7 to 9°C lower near the dam, and about
12°C lower on the south side of the railroad embankment. A distinct
temperature difference also existed between surface waters immediately
south of the railroad embankment (15.5°C) and surface waters immediately
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11
north (12.5 to 13°C); thus, it appears that the railroad embankment
forms a barrier that interferes with water circulation between the
north and south portions of Lake Coffeen.
On November 18, 1977, surface temperature gradients were meas-
ured by remote sensing techniques. Information obtained by remote
sensing was similar to data obtained by on-site field measurements,
but, provided a more detailed and comprehensive image of Lake Coffeen
surface temperatures. Figures 2 and 3 (inside back cover) are syn-
optic isarthermalk maps of the lake, reconstructed from data obtained
by an aircraft mounted infrared line scanner. From the remote sen-
sing data, it is apparent that: 1) the largest area of the lake had
surface temperatures ranging from 15°C to 20°C while the surface
temperatures near the lake inlet were 7°C to 8°C; and 2) the railraod
embankment interferes with circulation of surface water between the
northern and southern portions of the lake.
PHYTOP LAN KTON
Surface water samples were collected from eight locations in the
southern portion of Lake Coffeen for plankton analyses [ Table 1 and
Figure 2]. Blue-green algae comprised 58 to 76% of the phytoplankton
at each station, with lesser numbers of green algae and diatoms
[ Table 3]. The blue-green algae Chroococcus, Merismopedia, Phormidiuni ,
and Schizothrix were found at Station 2 nearest the power plant dis-
charge. Merismopedia and Schizothrix were the only blue-green algae
found at other stations. The predominance of blue—green algae in
November (and in April as reported by CIPSCO) reflects the elevated
* Isarthermal - area of constant or equal temperature.
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12
Table 3
LAKE COFFEEN PFJYTOPLANKTON
LAKE COFFEEN, ILLINOIS
November 1977
Station
Type of Algae 2 5 8 9 11 16 19 25
Algal units/mi
Bl ue-Green
Chroococcus 33
Merismopedia 199 232 99 66 99 99 199
Total 232 232 99 66 99 99 199
Fi lamentous Blue-Green
Phormidium 33
Schizothrix 3,740 4,700 5,130 3,277 4,667 4,667 2,979 3,674
Total 3,773 4,700 5,130 3,277 4,667 4,667 2,979 3,674
Coccoid Green
Pediastrum 66
Scenedesmus 265 463 1,423 430 397 298 199 364
Tetraedron 166 66 99 33
Total 431 595 1,423 430 397 298 298 397
Filamentous Green
Rhizoclonium 166 99 33 199 232 397 397 298
Total 166 99 33 199 232 397 397 298
Green Flagellates
Phacus 199 66 232 132 166 99 66 397
Total 199 66 232 132 166 99 66 397
Diatoms
Pennate 2,085 1,059 662 463 728 794 496 761
Centric 33 66 33 33 99
Total 2,085 1,092 662 529 761 794 529 850
Total (No./ml) 6,886 6,784 7,579 4,633 6,322 6,255 4,368 5,825
Total (No. of kinds) 9 9 6 7 7 5 8 8
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13
lake temperatures caused by the power station discharge. In lakes
and reservoirs not influenced by artificial temperature inputs,
blue-green algae may dominate during the summer months, but diatoms
dominate in colder months. 7 The predominance of blue-green algae in
the phytoplankton is considered to be an undesirable characteristic,
and the presence of this condition in November and April is an in-
dication of unnaturally elevated temperatures.
BENTHIC MACROINVERTEBRATES
Bottom-dwelling invertebrates collected at eight locations in
Lake Coffeen reflected the generally poor water quality of Lake
Coffeen. Phantom midges ( Chaoborus) , midges ( Chironomus ) and aquatic
oligochaetes were the only organisms frequently collected in bottom
samples [ Table 4]. Benthic organisms were not abundant in any por-
tions of the lake, and species diversity (d) was extremely poor
(ranging from 0.0 to 1.58 on a scale in which values greater than 3.0
are considered acceptable 8 ).
FISH
Lake Coffeen fish populations were influenced severely by the
power plant discharges. Overall, the fishery is characterized by
relatively few important game fish such as largemouth bass and chan-
nel catfish, and large numbers of small sunfish [ Tables 5 and 6]. In
addition, most of the fish of Lake Coffeen were thin and in extremely
poor condition. Condition factors were calculated and used as a
method of describing the relative plumpness or well-being of the
fish. The calculation involved the equation KTL = 3 , where W
is weight in grams, L is total length in millimeters and iO is a
factor to bring the value of KTL near unity. Condition factors are
influenced by many variables, such as the species and age of fish and
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14
Table 4
BENTHIC M4 CROIN VERTEBRA TES
LAKE COFFEENJ ILLINOIS
November 1977
Organisms
Station
5
8
13
14 21
22
25*
27
Numbers/rn 2
ANNELIDA
Oligochaeta
Naididae
474
I NSECTA
Tn pcotera
Mo lannidae
Molanna
43
Di ptera
Ch i ronomi dae
Chironomus
43
43
43
43
Eukiefferiella
86
13
Parachironomus
Psectrocladius
43
Nematocera
Chaoborus
301
1 ,808
431
344
MOL LUSCA
Gastropoda
Bul imidae
Somatogyrus
43
Total No./m 2
818
1,808
474
43 430
86
129
No. of Kinds
3
1
2
1 2
2
3
**
1.21
0.0
0.438
0.0 0.721
0.999
1.58
No organisms
‘ Index of Diversity
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Table 5
LAKE COFFEAW FISH POPULATION
LAKE COFFEFV 1 ILLINOIS
November 1977
Station
Largemouth Bass
Average
rio. Wt L K
(g) (cm)
White Crappie Channel Catfish
Average a Average
No. Wt L K No. . Wt L K
(g) (cm) L (g) (cm) L
No.
Black Bullhead
Average
Yellow Bulihe
Average
ad Carp
Average
Wt L K
(g) (cm) L
No. Wt L
(g) (cm)
K No. Wt L K
L (g) (cm) L
3
5 271 23 1.1 10 208
29 0.6
8
2 1,362 42 1.8
3 140
26 0.7
2 1,702 50 1.4
13
2 120 21 1.0
14
2 14 11.8 0.8
4 43 18 0.7 13 294
32 0.7
1
360 31 1.2
1 1,135 48 1.0
20
2 79 20 0.9
22
1 454
40 0.7
23
5 92 21 0.9 1 2.497
67 0.8
24
1 1,816 48.5 1.6
26
7 822 32 1.6
7 252 26 1.5 1 132
26 0.8
1 136 22
1.4 5 1,999 54 1.2
28
1 36 15 1.1
5 397 25 1.4 5 620
34 0.9
1 481 32 1.4
29
5 32 14 1.2 5 603
36 0.9
2
193 24 1.4
1 1,085 42 1.5
Total
13 •
35 39
3
1
10
Orange Spot Sunfish
Greeni Sunlish Longear
Sunfish
Hybrid Sunfish
Gizzard Shad
Bluegill
3
1 10
9 1.4
3
16 11 1.4
11 123 23
0.8 9 22 12 1.4
8
1 2 6 0.9
1 4
7 1.2
2
26 12 1.3
43 40 16
1.0 4 29 12 1.6
13
1 9 8.5 1.5
4 22 11 1.6 17 25
12 1.4
8
37 13 1.5
11 13.4 9.6 1.3
14
1 10 8.8 1.5
10 16
10 1.5
21
20 11 1.4
54 42 17
0.8 70 16.4 10.4 1.3
20
22 9.5 8.6 1.5
1 23 12 1.2 7 17
10 1.4
18
29 12 1.5
56 20 11 1.4
22
4 9.1 8.6 1.2
3 12 9 1.6 23 14
10 1.4
18
21 11 1.4
3 27 14
0.8 53 15.4 10.2 1.3
23
4 8 8.2 1.4
33 14
10 1.4
30
22 11 1.4
2 30 15
0.8 140 19.5 11.2 1.4
24
1 70 16 1.9 2
9 1.2
3
17 9 1.3
47 36 16
0.9 16 13.5 9.8 1.3
26
2 16 10 1.4 2 22
11 1.7
2
45 14 1.8
30 49 16
1.0 41 24.5 11.5 1.6
28
1 23
10 2.2
4
37 12 1.8
3 101 20
1.0 21 18.5 9.9 1.8
29
3 14 9.1 1.8
3 29 15
0.8 8 20.9 10.3 1.7
Total
16
11 97
109
196
437
-I
0i
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Table 6
LAKE’ COFFEEN FISH CONDITION FACTORS
LAKE COFFELW, ILLINOIS
Novomh r 1977
Station
Type of Fish
3
Avg
Uo. KTL
8
Avg
No. KTL
13
Avg
rio. KTL
14
Avg
No. KTL
20
Avg
No. KTL
22
Avg
No. KIL
23
Avg
No. KIL
24
Avg
No. KIL
26
Avg
No. KTL
28
Avg
No. KTL
29
Avg
No. KIL
Range Range
No. KTL
Largemouth Bass
2 1.8
2 0.8
1 1.6
7 1.6
1 1.1
0-7 0.8—1.8
Uhite Crappie
5 Li
2 1.0
4 0.7
2 0.9
5 0.9
7 1.5
5 1.4
5 1.2
0—7 0.7—1.5
Channel Catfish
10 0.6
3 0.7
13 0.7
1 0.7
1 0.8
1 0.8
5 0.9
5 0.9
0-13 0.6-0.9
Black Bullhead
1 1.2
2 1.4
0-2 1.2—1.4
Yellow Bullhead
‘
1 1.4
0—1 1.4
Carp
2 1.4
1 1.0
5 1.2
1 1.4
1 1.5
0—5 l.0—l.5
Orange Spot
Sunfish
1 0.9
1 1.5
1 1.5
2 1.5
4 1.2
4 1.4
3 1.8
0-4 0.9—1.8
Green Sunfish
4 1.6
1 1.2
3 1.6
1 1.9
2 1.4
0—4 1.2—1.9
Longear Sunfish
1 1.4
1 1.2
17 1.4
10 1.5
17 1.4
23 1.4
33 1.4
2 1.2
2 1.7
1 2.2
0-33 1.2—2.2
Hybrid Sunfish
3 1.4
2 1.3
8 1.5
21 1.4
18 1.5
18 1.4
30 1.4
3 1.3
2 1.8
4 1.8
0-21 1.3—1.8
Gizzard Shad
11 0.8
42 1.0
54 0.8
3 0.8
2 0.8
47 0.9
30 1.0
3 1.0
3 0.8
0-54 0.8-1.0
Bluegill
9 1.4
4 1.6
ii 1.3
70 1.3
56 1.4
53 1.3
148 1.4
16 1.3
41 1.6
21 1.8
8 1.7
4-148 1.2—1.8
Total Fish
39
57
43
177
96
105
223
70
98
40
28
28-223
Effort Units
2 trap
days
3 gill
net
days
25 mm.
E]ectro-
fishing
2 trap
days
2 gill
net
days
2 trap
days
3 gill
net
days
2 trap
days
2 gill
net
days
2 trap
days
2 gill
net
days
2 trap
days
2 gill
net
days
25 mm.
Electro-
fishing
20 mm.
Electro-
fishing
1 trap
day
1 gill
net
day
1 trap
day
1 gill
net
day
-a
o I
-------
17
geographical location; thus, it is not possible to assign absolute
values of acceptable condition factors. The values calculated for
Lake Coffeen fish were in the lower range of values reported for fish
in the southern Illinois. 9 ’ 10 ’ 1 ’
Fish populations in Lake Coffeen appeared to be affected to a
large degree by temperature patterns. Population densities were
lowest in the discharge arm, and highest in the area south of the
railroad embankment (Station 23), where small sunfish were abundant
[ Table 5].
Fish inhabiting the area of Lake Coffeen north of the railroad
embankment were least affected by the power plant discharges. In
this area, there were more largemouth bass, white crappie and carp
[ Table 6]. The fish in this area did not appear stunted, and exhibi-
ted better color than did fish collected south of the railroad embank-
ment. The condition factors of white crappie, channel catfish, black
bullhead, orange spot sunfish, longear sunfish, bluegill and hybrid
sunfish were better in fish collected north of the railroad embankment
than in fish collected to the south. The chemical quality of water
was not significantly better in the northern portion of the lake for
the constituents measured; consequently it appears that the better
condition of the fishery in this area is the result of lower tem-
peratures.
The Central Illinois Public Service Company has reported that
the northern portion of Lake Coffeen can serve as a refuge for fish
when conditions are less than optimum in the main body of the lake. 2
This did not occur during the November 1977 survey. Surface tempera-
tures were then in the 15 to 20°C range in most of the lake, an ideal
temperature for most fish species, and the fish had not occupied
these areas. Thus, it seems that the healthier fish populations
occupy the cooler zones during the summer months, and not migrate in
great numbers into the warmer zones when temperatures fall.
-------
IV. METHODS
A network of thirty sampling stations was established in Lake
Coffeen. Stations were located to provide a representative profile
of the thermal and chemical patterns of the lake. Aquatic biota were
collected from twenty representative locations to evaluate the in-
fluence of the thermal and chemical patterns.
Temperatures, dissolved oxygen, ph and conductivity were meas-
ured in the field, using methodology described in Standard Methods
for the Examination of Water and Wastewater (14th Ed.). 12 Instru-
ments used for these measurements were calibrated according to manu-
facturer specifications. Surface grab samples for alkalinity measure-
ments were preserved on ice and analyzed using methodology described
in Standard Methods .
On November 18, 1977 between 10:51 a.m. and 11:57 a.m. , surface
temperature gradients were measured by remote sensing techniques.
Temperature measurements were made by a contractor-supplied aircraft
equipped with an infrared line scanner, flying at 600 to 1,200 m
(2,000 and 4,000 ft) above ground level. Temperature data were
recorded on magnetic tape and subsequently processed by computer.
The data generated, accurate to + 0.5°C, were used to prepare isar-
thermal maps of Lake Coffeen. Field measurements were used to verify
the validity and integrity of the remote sensing data.
Water samples were collected from Lake Coffeen using a Van Dorn
bottle. Grab samples were taken from near the surface and approxi-
mately 1 meter above the lake bottom. Samples for calcium, mag-
nesium, sodium and boron analyses were preserved with nitric acid.
-------
19
Samples for nitrogen and phosphorus analyses were preserved with sul-
furic acid. Sulfate analyses were performed on unpreserved water
samples.
Sodium, magnesium and calcium were analyzed using flame atomic
absorption on undigested samples. Boron analyses were done by in-
ductively coupled argon-plasma emission spectroscopy on undigested
samples. Ammonia and nitrite plus nitrate concentrations were deter-
mined using procedures described in the EPA manual Methods for
Chemical Analyses of Water and Wastes. 13 The TKN and Total P values
were obtained using the procedure described by Jirka, et al. 14 Sulfate
concentrations were determined according to the procedure described
in Standard Methods .
Surface grab water samples were collected and preserved with 5%
formalin for plankton analyses. Algal counts were done using a
Sedgwick—Rafter chamber. One strip of the chamber was examined for
each count at a magnification of 160X. Taxonomic references used were:
Smith, Freshwater Algae of the United States;’ 5 Prescott, How to Know
the Freshwater Algae;’ 6 and FWPCA, A Guide to the Common Diatoms at
Water Pollution Surveillance System Stations.’ 7
Benthic macroinvertebrates were obtained by use of an Ekman grab.
Bottom samples were washed in a U.S. Standard No. 70 sieve, and organ-
isms and debris were preserved with ethyl alcohol. In the laboratory,
organisms were manually separated from debris, identified and counted.
Taxonomic references included Edmondson, Fresh-Water Biology 18 and
Pennak, Freshwater Invertebrates of the United States.’ 9
Fish were collected by use of rectangular trap nets, gill nets
and an electroshocking device. Trap nets were set in shallow coves
normally inhabited by small fish. Large-mesh gill nets were set near
the bottom at the mouths of inlets to collect large bottom-dwelling
-------
20
fish. Electrofishing was done at selected locations usually inhabited
by large game fish. Traps and gill nets were kept in place in comparable
habitats for approximately one-day periods, after which fish were removed,
sorted, weighed, measured, counted and returned alive to the lake.
Electroshocking was done in similar habitats along the face of the
dam and on both sides of the railroad bridge, using alternating current.
All fish identifications were performed by Illinois Department of
Conservation personnel.
-------
21
REFERENCES
1. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, National Eutrophication
Survey. Report on Coffeen Lake, Montgomery County, Illinois, EPA Region
V. Working Paper No. 300. June 1975.
2. Thermal Demonstration Pursuant to Illinois Pollution Control
Board Rules and Regulations Chapter 3: Rule 203 (i)(l0). Central
Illinois Public Service Company, Coffeen Power Station, Units 1 & 2.
May 31, 1977.
3. J. E. McKee and H. W. Wolf. Water Quality Criteria. Second
Edition. The Resources Agency of California, State Water Quality
Control Board. Publication No. 3-A. 1963.
4. W. J. Birge and J. A. Black. Sensitivity of Vertebate Embryos
to Boron Compounds. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. EPA
560/1-76-008. 1977.
5. L. A. Richards(ed.). Diagnosis and Improvement of Saline and
Alkali Soils. U.S. Department of Agriculture Handbook No. 60. February
1954.
6. K. M. Mackenthun. The Practice of Water Pollution Biology.
U.S. Department of Interior, Federal Water Pollution Control Administra-
tion. 1969.
7. R. Patrick. Some Effects of Temperature on Freshwater Algae.
In P.A. Krenkel and F.L. Parker (eds.), Biological Aspects of Thermal
Pollution. Vanderbilt University Press. 1969.
8. J. L. Wilham and 1. C. Dorris. Biological Parameters for
Water Quality Criteria. Bioscience. 18:477-480. 1968.
9. K. 0. Carlander. Handbook of Freshwater Fishery Biology.
Brown Publishers, Dubuque, Iowa. 1950.
10. K. D. Carlander. First Supplement to Handbook of Freshwater
Fishing Biology. Win. C. Brown Company, Dubuque, Iowa. 1953.
11. K. 0. Carlander. Handbook of Freshwater Fishery Biology.
Volume One. Iowa State University Press, Ames, Iowa. 1969.
12. M. Rand, et.al. Standard Methods for the Examination of Water
and Wastewater, 14th Ed. , APHA-AWWA-WPCF. 1975.
-------
22
13. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. Methods for Chemical
Analysis of Water and Wastes. EPA-625/6-74-003. 1974.
14. A. M. Jirka, et. al. Ultramicro Semiautomated Method for
Simultaneous Determination of Total Phosphorus and Total Kjeldahl
Nitrogan in Wastewaters. Environmental Science and Technology.
l0(lO):1038. 1976.
15. G. M. Smith. The Fresh-Water Algae of the United States.
Second Ed. McGraw-Hill Book Company. 1950.
16. G. W. Prescott. The Freshwater Algae. Wm. C. Brown Company
Publishers, Dubuque, Iowa. 1970.
17. U.S. Department of the Interior. A Guide to the Common
Diatoms at Water Pollution Surveillance System Stations. Federal Water
Pollution Control Administration. June 1966.
18. W. T. Edmondson (ed). Fresh-Water Biology. Second Ed. John
Wiley & Sons, Inc. 1959.
19. R. W. Pennak. Fresh-Water Invertebrates of the United States.
The Ronald Press Company. 1953.
-------
APPENDIX A
CHAIN OF CUSTODY PROCEDURES
(Partial Revision — June 1975)
-------
ENV I ROt •1ErlTAL PROTECT I On GE1 CY
NATIONAL ENFORCEMENT INVEST IGATICn1S CEtITER
CHAIN OF CUSTODY PROCEDURES
June 1, 1975
GENERPL
The evidence gathering portion of a survey should b characterized by the minimum
number of samples required to give a fair representation of the effluent or water body
fro:n which taker.. To the e cent possible, the quantity of samples and sample loca-
tions will be determined prior to the sdrvey.
Chain of Custody procedures must be followed to maintain the documentation necessary
to trace sample pcssessicn from the time taken until the evidence is introduced into
court. A sample is in your “custody” if:
1. It is in yoi .r actual p ,ysica1 possession, or
2. It is in your view, after being in your physical possession, or
3. It was in your ph sica1 possession and then you locked it up in a manner so
that no one could tamper with it.
All survey participants will receive a copy of the survey study plan and will be
knowledgeable of its contents prior to the survey. A pre-survey briefing will be held
to re-appraise all part cipants of the survey objectives, sample locations and Chain
of Custody procedures. After all Chain of Custody samples are collected, a de-briefir ,g
will be held in the field to determire adherence to Chain of Custody procedures and
whether additional evidence type samples are required.
SAMPLE COLLECTION
1. To the maximum extent achievable, as few people as possible should handle
the sample.
2. Stream and effluent samples shall be obtained, using standard field sampling
techniques.
3. Sample’tags (Exhibit I) shall be securely attached to the sample container
at the time the complete sample is collected and shall contain, at a minimum,
the following information: station number, station location, data taken,
time taken, type of sample, sequence number (first sample of the day —
seq ience No. 1, second sample - sequence No. 2, etc.), analyses required and
samplers. The tags must be legibly filled out in ballpoint (waterproof ink).
4. Blank samples shdll also be taken with preservatives which will be analyzed
by the la5oratory t3 exclude the possibiljty o container or preservative
contamination.
5. A pre-printed, bound Field Data Record logbook shall be maintained to re-
cord field measurements and other pertinent information necessary to refresh
the sampler’s memory in the event he later takes the stand to testify re-
garding his actions during the evidence gathering activity. A separate
set of field notebooks shall be maintained for each survey and stored in a
safe place where they could be protected and accounted for at all times.
Sterdard formats (Exhibits II and III) have been established to minimize
field entries and include the date, time, survey, type of sairples taken,
volume of each sample, type of analysis, sample numbers, preservatives,
sample location and field measurements such as temperature, conductivity,
-------
56
DO, ph’, flow and any other pertinent. infor ,nation or observations. The
entries shall be signed by the field sampler. The preparation and conser-
vation of the field logbooks during the survey qiil be the responsibility
of the survey coordinator. Once the survey is co! plete, field i gs will be
retained by the survey coordinator, or his designated represent tiie, as a
part of the permanent record.
6. The field sa apler is responsible for the care and custody of the samples
collected until properly dispatc?.ed to the receiving laboratory or turned
over to an assigned custodian. ie must assure that ath container is in his
physical possession or in his view at all times, or locked in such a place
and manner that no one ca tamper with it.
7. Colored slides or phote rophs should be taken which would visually show the
cutfall sample location and any ,ater pollutit n to substantiate any con-
clusicns of the investigation. Written documentation on the back of the
photo should include the signature of the p rntographer, time, date and site
location. P iotogrepns of this nature, which ray be used as evidence, shall
be handled recognizing Chain of Custody procedures to prevent alteration.
TRANSFER OF CUSTODY AND SHIPF ENT
1. Samples will be accompanied by a Chain of Custody Record whicr , includes the
name of the survey, samplers’ signatures, station number, station location,
date, time, type of sample, sequence number, number of containers and analy-
ses required (Fig. IV). When turning over the possession of samples, the
transferor and transferee will sign, date and time the sheet. This record
sheet allo ,s transfer of custody of a group of samples in the fielJ, to the
mobile laboratory or w ,en samples re dispatched to the EIC - Denver labora-
tory. When transferring a portion of the samples identified on the sheet to
the field irobile laboratory, the individua samples must be noted in the
column with the signature of the nerson relinquishiig the samples. The field
laboratory person receiving the samples will ackno sledge receipt by signing
in the appropriate column.
2. The field custodian or field sampler, if a custodian has not been assigned,
will t ave the responsibility of properly packaging and dispatching samples
to the proper laboratory for analysis. The “Dispatch” portion of the “Chain
of Custody Record shall be properly filled out, dated, and signed.
3. Samples will be properly packed in shipment containers such as ice chests, to
avoid breakage. The shipping cor.tainers will be padlocked for shipment to
the receiving laboratory.
4. All packages will be accompanied by the Chain of Custody Record showing iden-
tificatiori of the contents. The origindi will accompany the shipment, and a
copy will be retained by the survey coordinator.
5. If sent by mail, register the package with return receipt requested. If sent
by con’cion carrier, a Goverrunerit 6i1l of Lading should be obtained. Receipts
from post offices, and bi!l of ladir.g will be retained as pan. of the perma-
nent Chain of Custody documentation.
6. If samples are delivered to the laberatory when apprcpriate personnel are not
there to receive them, the samples rrust oe locked in a designated area within
the laboratory in a manner so that no one can tamper ith them. The same per—
scn must thcn return to the iaboratory and unlock the samples ard deliver
custody to the appropriate custodian.
-------
LABORATORY CUSTODY PROCEDURES
1. The laboratory shall designate a “sample custodian.” An alternate will be
designated in his absence. In addition, the laboratory shall set aside a
“sample storage security area.” This should be a clean, dry, isolated room
which can be securely locked from the outside.
2. All samples should be handled by the minimum possible number of persons.
3. All incoming samples shall be received only by the custodian, who will in-
dicate receipt by sianing the Chain of Custody Sheet accompanying the san p1es
and retaining the sheet as permanent records. Couriers picking up samples at
the airport, post office, etc. shall sign jointly with the laboratory custodian.
4. Immediately upon receipt, the custodian will plaCe the sample in the sample
room, which will be locke at all tir ias except when samples are removed or
replaced by the custodian. To the maximum extent possible, only the custo-
dian should be permitted in the sample room.
5. The custodian shall ensure that heat-sensitive or light-sensitive samples,
or other sample materials having unusual physical characteristics, or re-
quiring special handling, are properly stored and niaintainad.
6. Only the custodian will distribute samples to personnel who are to perform
tests.
7. The analyst will record in his laboratory notebook o analytical worksheet,
identifying information describing the sample, the procedures performed
and the results of the testing. The notes shall be cated and indicate who
performed the tests. The notes shall be retained as a permanent record in
the laboratory and should note any abnormalties which occurred daring the
testing procedure. In the event that the person who performed the tests is
not available as a witness at time of trial, the government may be able to
introduce the notes in evidence under the Federal Bisiness Records Act.
8. Standard methods of laboratory analyses shall be used as described in the
“Guidelines Establishing Test Procedures for Analysis of Pollutants,”
38 F.R. 28758, October 16, 1973. If laboratory personnel deviate from
standard procedures, they should be prepared to justify their decision dur-
ing cross-examination.
9. Laboratory personnel are responsible for the care and custody of the sample
once it is handed over to them and should be prepared to testify that the
sample was in their possession and view or secured in the laboratory at all
times from the moment it was received from the custodian until the tests
were run.
10. Once the sample testing is completed, the unused portion of the sample to-
gether with all identifying tags and laboratory records, should be returned
to the custodian. The returned tagged sample will be retained in the sample
room until it is required for trial. Strip charts and other documentation
of work will also be turned over to the custodian.
11. Samples, tags and laboratory records of tests may be destroyed only upon the
order of the laboratory director, who will first confer with the Chief,
Enforcement Specialist Office, to make certain that the information is no
longer required or the samples have deteriorated.
-------
58
EXHIBIT I
ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECT ON AGENCY
OFFICE OF ENFORCEMENT
NAT! NA1 ENFORCEMENT INVEST 1GATIONS CENTER
UILI G 53, BOX 25227, DENVEr FEDERAL CENTEk
DENVER, COLO .40O 80225
Front
/
Back
-------
EXHIBIT II
FOR SURVEY, PHASE , DATE
rypE OF SAMPLF
STATION DESCRIPTION
S ES
REQUIR
PRESERVATIVE
E!/.ARKS
-------
EXHIBIT 111
FIELD DATA RECORD
0
STATION
NUMBER
DATE
TIME
TEMPERATURE
°C
:
CONDUCTIVITY
iu&1o /cm
:
pH
SAl.
,
D 0.
m /l
OogoHt.
or Flow
Ft. or CFS
—
—
a -—
-------
EXHIBIT IV 61
ENVIRONMENTAL. PROTECTION AGENCY
OFfice 01 Enforcement
NATiONAL ENFORCEMENT INVESTIGATIONS CENTER
Building 53, Box 25227. Denver Federal Center
Denver, Colorado 80225
CHAIN OF CUSTODY RECORD
SURVEY -
SAMPLERS: (S.gnoSur.)
STATION
NWBER
.
STATION LOCATION
DATE
TIME
SAMPLE tYPE
SEQ.
NO
•
NO OF
CONTAINERS
-.
ANALYSIS
REQUIRED
Woir,
±
—
I
I Air
L
Received by: ( 5 , ,cturr) Dote/Time
I
Relinquished by: (Slçna?urej
Relinquished by: (S .g Iuv.)
Received by: (Sg &ut.)
Dote/Time
I
Relinquished by: (Sl9noture)
Received by: (S .gnahriej -
Dote/Time
I
Reiirtquished by: (3.gnotuse)
Received by Mobile Laboratory for field
onolysis: IS .gnolure)
Dote/Time
Dispatched by: (S.g ?ure) Dote/Time I Received for laboratory by:
I I
Dote/Time
I
Method of Shipment:
Distribution: Org — Accompany Shpmeni
1 Copy— Survey Coordinator Field Files
-------
APPENDIX B
REVIEW OF PROCEDURES
-------
REVIEW OF PROCEDURES
LAKE COFFEEN
COFFEEN, ILLINOIS
Records pertaining to the Lake Coffeen presurvey reconnaissance
and survey were evaluated against established NEIC chain-of-custody
procedures [ Appendix A], records management practices and standardized
methodology. Field data records, log books, sample tags, chain-of-custody
records, laboratory bench sheets, etc. were reviewed to determine the
nature and scope of any deviations from established procedures. If a
deviation was discovered, an assessment was made of the impact of the
deviation on the survey results. The following is the result of this
eval uati on.
Although all field instruments (dissolved oxygen meter, conductivity
meter, pH meter) were calibrated daily or in accordance with manufacturer
specifications, this information was not recorded in the bound field
notebooks.
During one day of the survey (Nov. 16, 1978), one of the fish-col-
lecting stations (designated 5 and 6 during the survey) was incorrectly
labeled 1] and 12 in the field notebook; thus, there were collections
from two separate locations recorded as Station 11 and 12 and no
collections recorded for Station 5 and 6. However, differences
existed in the type of sampling that was done at the two locations
(fish samples were preserved for return to NEIC at Station 5 and 6
and not at Station 11 and 12) and it was possible to determine the
correct locations from the field notebook. After the error was
discovered, the improper information in the notebook was corrected.
-------
Alkalinity samples were collected, tagged for identification
purposes, documented in the field log, analyzed in the field, and
discarded. Chain-of-custody records were not prepared because the
samples remained in the custody of the same person(s) from the time
of collection until completion of analysis. Fish and benthos samples
were collected, tagged, documented in the field notebooks, and
returned to NEIC for analysis. Chain-of-custody records were not
prepared because the samples remained in the possession of the same
person(s) from the time of collection until completion of analysis.
One sample intended for sulfate analysis and not preserved was
incorrectly labeled for nutrient analysis. The mistake was
discovered before the analysis occurred, and the sample was correctly
analyzed for sulfate.
At two stations, sulfate and nutrient custody sheet sequence
numbers were erroneously written as 01; they should have been written
02. The tags were correctly identified as sequence 02.
Some plankton and benthos sample tags were not completed with
all of the information for which the tag has spaces. Collection
times were not placed on some of the plankton tags, but were recorded
in the field notebook. Collection times and sequence numbers were
not recorded on tags or in notebooks for benthos samples; however,
collection times and sequence numbers are not relevant to the inter-
pretation of benthos data.
For continuity, it was necessary to renumber sampling locations
for inclusion in the report. Thus, station numbers appearing in
field notebooks do not always correspond with station numbers appear-
ing in this report.
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Sulfate analyses were performed beyond the recommended holding
time of 7 days. The mechanism by which sulfate can be lost is through
reduction by bacteria, in the absence of oxygen, with sulfide being
produced. Since no black metallic sulfide compounds were formed and
no odor due to sulfides was observed, reduction of sulfate in the
samples did not occur. This result was expected as the samples did
not contain enough organic matter to cause the samples to become
anaerobic. Therefore, even though the samples were analyzed beyond
the recommended holding time, the validity of the samples was maintained.
Blank samples were not submitted from the field to the laboratory
for analysis. Other quality control procedures such as analysis of
replicates and laboratory-prepared blanks were conducted.
Sulfuric acid to be used for preservation of nutrient samples
inadvertently was not taken into the field. The Central Illinois
Public Service Company supplied sulfuric acid for our use, but it may
not have been of reagent grade. Results of nutrient analyses were in
the range of values previously reported (moderate to low); therefore,
it is our judgement that the nutrient results are valid, and, that
nutrient samples were not contaminated by impurities in the preservative.
All of these deviations to established NEIC procedures, and the
items requiring clarification are considered to be minor and, thereby,
are considered to have no impact on the results or conclusions contained
in this report.
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