United States Department of the Interior
Federal Water Pollution Control Administration
Northwest Region
QUARTERLY PROGRESS REPORT
Pacific Northwest Water Laboratory
Cprvallis, Oregon-
July 1 - September 30, 1968
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PACIFIC NORTHWEST WATER LABORATORY
QUARTERLY REPORT
July 1 to September 30, 1968
United States Department of the Interior
Federal Water Pollution Control Administration
Northwest Region, Con/alii:,, Oregon
October 1968
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CONTENTS
NATIONAL THERMAL POLLUTION RESEARCH PROGRAM
MTIONAL COASTAL POLLUTION RESEARCH O RAM
NATIONAL EUTROPHICATION RESEARCH PROGRAM
Physiological Branch
Ecological Contro’ Branch
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I L I I\L II ILfl I I I II I Iw I%r I I
Paper & Allied Products Research Branch
Food Wastes Research Branch . *
Special Studies Branch . .
BIOLOGICAL EFFECTS RESEARCH PROGRAM . . .
TRAINING & MANPOWER DEVELOPMENT
POLLUTION SURVEILLANCE
TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE & INVESTIGATIONS .
CONSOLIDATED LABORATORY SERVICES PROGRAM
1
• 1
• S S • S • 14
• . • . . • 14
• 15
• I S S • •
p.
• 28
31
• • . . . 34
• S S S I 37
39
• S S S S • 42
44
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NATIONAL THERMAL POLLUTION RESEARCH PROGRAM - 9841/1613
Status of Projects and Significant Accomplishments
Càlumbia River Study Project
Construction of a facility at Bonneville, Oregon, to simulate
the migration of adult salmon through water at elevated temperatures
was started. The research plan was to determine the effects of
such temperaturez on the gametes and progeny of the salmon. How-
ever, construction delays and the unpredicted absence of late
spawning runs forced postponement 0 f this research effort until
1969.
A laboratory Tissue Enzyme Study at Corvallis has just been
initiated to determine the effects of various temperature conditions
on enzyme activities in salmon using both in vivo and in vitro
techniques.
Technol ogy Transfer
The South Central Region was given technical assistance in
matters relating to the Dardanelle Reservoir (Arkansas) and a
power plant on Galveston Bay; the Great Lakes Region was assisted
with their studies of the thermal pollution of Lake Michigan. New
York State temperature standards were reviewed on request by
Headquarters Water Quality Standards Std,f.
The State of the Art report supported by a grant to Vande bilt
University is proceeding on schedule. The PNWL contribution is
complete and technically reviewed.
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2
The work leading to a publication of the proceedings of the
National Symposia on Thermal Pollution is progressing on schedule.
Publication is anticipated in 3rd Quarter, FY 1969. The second
and final session of the Symposia was held at Vanderbilt University
August 14-16, 1968.
The manuscript of the Industrial Waste Guide is complete and
technically reviewed. The final manuscript is at Headquarters for
approval and publication. Plans for five technical seminars
(workshops) for State and Federal regulatory personnel were finalized
on October 1, 1968. These workshops will be held in Corvallis,
Oregon; Ada, Oklahoma; Athens, Georgia; Cincinnati, Ohio; and Edison,
New Jersey. The Water Quality Laboratory at Duluth is cooperating
by providing biological expertise.
Effects on Water Uses Other Than Fish
Inactive
Predictive Techniques
On the subject of evaporation rates, several discussions have
been held with prospective contractors and grantees on refining
techniques for predicting various terms of the energy budget.
Initial concern is with applicability of weather station data to
micro-meterologic conditions in the region of heat transfer to
advecti on.
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Techniques for Biologic “Base Line” in Heat Discharge Site Evaluation
This work has been assigned to Ronald Garton, Research Aquatic
Biologist, EOD september 3, 1968, and has a good start. The scope
and approach to the assignment have been outlined and arrangements
have been made for discussions with senior biologists of FWPCA.
Design and Efficiency of Cooling Towers
Significant progress was made in starting this work assignment,
also. Lawrence Winiarski, Mechanical Engineer, (temporary appoint-
ment), EOD September 9, 1968, is reviewing and analyzing the
technical literature on design, performance, and efficiency of
cooling towers as related to local meteorologic and other independent
variables. Dr. Fred W. flecker, Associate Professor of Physics at
Oregon State University, specializing in Meteorology, has been
commissioned to prepare a synoptic report on “Local Climatic
Effects of Cooling Towers.” This report, based in part on
theoretical considerations and in part on consultation with European
meteorologists having practical experience with cooling towers, is
scheduled for delivery the 2nd Quarter of FY 1969.
Preliminary technical discussions were held with representa-
tives of E. Bollay Associates, iflC., a subsidiary of EG&G on
evaluation and development of criteria to determine inadvertent
weather modification in the vicinity of cooling towers. These
discussions hopefully will lead to a contract that will provide the
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theoretical background and the criteria and a computer program for
regional and site evaluation of potential fogging hazard associated
with cooling tower p 1 ’.tmes.
River Basin Planning for Thermal Pollution Control
Possibilities are being explored with the South Cer tral Region
for demonstrating pollution control planning techniques on a major
river basin in Texas. This proposal is an outgrowth of a grant
application from Southern Methodist University.
General
Goals and priorities of thermal pollution control research
are firming. The regional offices were canvassed relative to
eston in i.,hich n c 3 dr ,1 mr r nf rp’ation and better tech-
nology. The two nation ’ sympnsia not only provided substantive
input but also pointed up some philosophical obstacles to obtain-
ing the goals expeditiously. The program chief participated in a
Specialty Conference on uResearch Needs in the Civil Engineering
Aspects ot Power” held by th Hydraulics Division, ASCE. Research
needs delineated by this group, too, ar compatible with emerging
FWPCA 90d1 5 and priori ti S.
Informal agreements were made with Dr. Don Mount, Duluth Water
Quality Laboratory, for (1) communication on grant and contract
review, and (2) coordination of program planning.
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Grants and Contracts
A research grant was awarded to the Water and Sanitary Engineer-
ing Department of Vanderbilt University for research in hydraulics
and hydrology as applied to pollution. Their FY 1969 program will
focus on Discharge of Fluids of Different Density and Mechanics of
Heat Dissipation.
Reviews of applications for research grants were made on the
following:
1. Atomic Power on the Finger Lakes, Cornell University.
2. Systems Analysis Approach to Environmental Management,
Dartmouth College, WP-0l5l6—Ol.
3. River Pollution - Thermal, Algal, and Nitrogeneous
Effects, Southern Methodist University, WP-01443-Ol.
4. Thermal Pollution and Diseases of Salmonid Fish,
Oregon State University.
5. Processes of Heat Re noval from Bays and Estuaries.
University of Miami.
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Experimental Study, University of Denver.
Reviews of proposals or scope of work for contract research
wera made on the following:
1. A Technical Survey and Economic Analysis of Alternative
Methods for Cooling Condenser Discharge Water in Thermal Power Plants,
Dynatech Corporation, P -341 WPRD.
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2. Physical Aspects of Thermal Pollution, Cornell Aero-
nautical Laboratory, Inc.
3. Industrial Waste Heat Rejection to the Atmosphere,
Aerojet General Corporation.
4. Preliminary Proposal for Cost Analysis of Large Cool—
ing Towers, Commonwealth Scientific Corp., P—326 WPRD.
5. Integrated Production of Energy, Chemicals and Water
Based on Natural Gas, General Electric, P-344 WPRD.
6. Microwave Radiometric Measurements of Oil Slicks
and Thermal Water Pollution, Microwave Sensor Systems, Inc.
7. Theoretical Evaluation and Development of a Criteria
to Determine Inadvertent Weather Modification in the Vicinity of
Cooling Towers, E. Boilay Associate;.
8. An Economic Engineering Study of Cooling Ponds,
Littleton Research and Engineering Corp., P—68—29.
Areas of. Concern
New and better ways to predict temperature response of a water
body to future heat inputs, particularly in the mixing zone, are
widely needed for review and implementation of the Water Qtxaiity
Standards. Facilities and personnel are not available to conduct
the necessary hydraulic research in—house. Grant applications
related to this subject are slow in developing, are relevant only
to small segments of the subject and are not being awarded anyway.
The stream and estuary situations need most attention.
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Reports and Papers
“Research Needs for Thermal Pollution Control,” Bruce A.
Tichenor, Research Sanitary Engineer, National Thermal Pollution
Research Program, presented at National Symposium on Thermal
Pollution, 2nd Session, Nashville, Tennessee, August 1968.
“Digest of Regional Needs for Better Technology in Thermal
Pollution Control,” sent to regional directors, August 14, 1968,
prepared by all program personnel.
Equipment
Equipment for the Bonneville installation of the Fisheries
Research Branch was purchased and installed at Bonneville, Oregon.
Equipment for the Tissue Enzyme Study has been ordered.
Plans for 2nd Quarter, FY 1969
1. Publish Industrial Waste Guide on Thermal Pollution.
2. Conduct the first Technical Seminar (workshop) on
Thermal Pollution Control, Pacific Northwest Water Laboratory.
November 25—25, 1968.
3. Develop preliminary report on cooling towers.
4. Organize and document specific research needs for
thermal prediction in mixing zones.
5. Fully activate Tissue Enzyme Study.
6. Continue other on—going projects.
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is being prepared which will reduce the number of equations to be
solved with subsequent saving in computer time. Verification of
the model will be pursued using observed salinity nd tide-wave
data. Consultation on the use of the model and valuable suggestions
regarding extensions of capability were provided by the Alameda
I Iw i-n .- ,
._ _ . J __ . S
Columbia River
The mathematical model obtained from the Alameda Laboratory
of FWPCA’s Southwest Region is being extended to provide temperature
prediction in the Columbia River Estuary. Model development is
progressing using “theoretical” channels of uniform widths, cross—
sections and surface areas. Effects of, e.g., Manning coefficient
‘ n +h,,c hc s-nmr r rI t.rfh n 1 c l cn1 , ,11t n ui inri
• — I I — I I I ... F — — — — . . — . J — I
the full program with about 10 seconds of computer time.
Coastal Distribution of Pollutants
A state-of-the-art report is being prepared on ocean outfalls.
and research is progressthg on the development of design and
operation models for use in coastal areas with variable density
and current.
Biological Assessment of Marine Pollution
Assessment of the influence of natural environmental changes
on fishes and invertebrates inhabiting the Yaquina River estuary
by the use of periodic mid-water trawis continues. The use of a
new substrate sampler for macro—invertebrates was discontinued
after an exploratory period of one year. Work continued on the
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NATIONAL COASTAL POLLUTION RESEARCH PROGRAM - 9841/1607
Status of Projects and Significant Accomplishments
Chemical Oceanography Branch
This branch was recently established within the National
Coastal Pollution Research Program and Dr. Milton H. Feldman was
transferred from the Alaska Water Laboratory for assignment to
the position of Branch Chief. Initially, Dr. Feldman’s emphasis
will be on the development of a long-term research plan relating
to the chemical interaction of pollutants in the marine environment.
Estuarine Diffusion of Pollutants Project
Yaguina River
Field sampling in Yaquina Bay, Oregon, is nearing com-
pletion on the first phase of the study to improve statistical—
dynamical models of pollutant distribution in estuaries. Data
reduction is being provided under contracts to the Oregon State
University Computer Center and Geodyne Corporation.
The time-variable model to be used for Columbia River
estuary temperature prediction has been applied to the Yaquina
River estuary to test several development steps. A first schemati—
zation of the estuary was completed and input data to the model
were prepared. The input requirements are derived from the
schemitization and consist in channel lengths, w Jths, cross—
sectional areas, etc. A second, more simplified, schematization
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fabrication of the continuous-flow environmental simulator for
future laboratory studies. Six trawl samples were obtained at
each of ten stations during the quarter. Thirty—eight such
samples (twice monthly) have been collected to date and 38,228
fish, 7,176 shrimp, and 2,661 crabs processed. Selected parts of
the data were successfully retrieved from storage and evaluated.
It appears that populations are reacting similarly between years
and that valid background for use in making assessments of
pollution problems and in developing additional biological research
needed for this purpose will result. This study will be dis-
continued and findings reported following the forthcoming critical
fall-winter period of environmental change.
Grant and Contract Research
Research grants were awarded to the following investigators
at Oregon State University: Dr. Victor Neal, Oceanography Depart-
ment, to study oceanographic features of the surf zone associated
with pollution transport and rr.ix ng; Professor Fredrick J. Burgess,
Civil Engineering, to study aerial reconnaissance methods of
evaluating performance of ocean outfalls; and Dr. David A. Bella
of the Ocean Engineering Program, Civil Engineering Department, to
study pollution aspects of estuarine tide flats.
Technical reviews were provided on the following applications
and proposals for research grants and contracts:
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1
‘I
1. “Temperature Effects on Marine Organisms in Puget
Sound” by Bureau of Commercia1 Fisheries.
2. “Atomic Power on the Finger Lakes” by Cornell University.
3. “Development of a Near-shore Environmental Data
Acquisition System” by Land and Sea Interaction Laboratory, Norfolk,
Virginia.
4. “Reflectance Spectra for Remote Sensing of Polluted
Waters” by TRW Systems - P-315(C) WPRDC.
5. “Identification of Pollutants in Water by Infrared
Measurements in the 1-14 Micron Region Lab Study” by Texas
Instruments - P-25OWPRD.
6. “Seawater Chlorophyll Detection System Airborne
Survey and Development of Advanced Water Pollution Remote Sensors”
by Barringer Research, Ltd. - P-68-169.
7. “Lab Tests of a Correlation Fraunhofer Infilling
Spectrometer for Measuring Fluorescence as a Water Pollution
Indicator” by Barringer Research, Ltd. - P-68-197.
8. “Numerical Solution of Unsteady Dispersion in
Estuaries” by Massachusetts Institute of Technology — WP—01512—O1.
9. °Oxidation of Organic Matter in the Seabed” by
University of Washington — WP-01522.
10. “Detection of Pathogenic Microbes from Ocean Outfalls”
by Florida Atlantic University - P-312WPRD.
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11. “Chiorinity-Salinity Relationships in Estuaries” by
Gulf Coast Research Laboratory - WP-01496.
12. “A Real-Time Chemical Study of a Riverine Reservoir”
by Oklahoma State University - WP-01443-Ol.
13. “Water Movement in a Lagoonal Estuary Measured by
Modified Geomagnetic Eiectrokinetographs by Adeiphi University —
WP-01453-Ol.
Areas of Concern
Extramural Research
The long time delay between application and notice to proceed
caused prospective researchers to lose recruitment and summer sampling
opportunities and caused d9lays in progress on program goals.
Reports and Papers
None
Egu t pment
Nine Geodyne film recording current meters were tested and
made ready for installation. In addition, two Marine Advisers
current meters were purchased for use in the near-shore zone where
wave-induced orbital velocities prevent use of Geodyne meters.
Plans for 2nd Quarter, FY 1969
Development an testing of the mathematical iodel for use in
temperature prediction o the Columbia River estuary will continue.
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Reduction of input data will be performed with assistance from
Regional Office personnel. While the finished model will be used
on the Columbia, it will be kept general enough for application
to any well-mixed system.
Initial distribution will be made on “Environmental Factors
in Coastal and Estuarine Water, Bibliographic Series — Volume 2,
Coast of Washington.”
Final report will be prepared on the macro-invertebrate
sampling program.
Data analysis will be intensified on the biological field
data from Yaquina Bay with the recently-acquired consulting
assistance of Dr. David Faulkenberry.
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NATIONAL EUTROPHICATION RESEARCH PROGRAM
9841/1601 and 9884/000
PHYSIOLOGICAL CONTROL BRANCH
Status of Projects and Significant Accomplishments
Physiology Section
Algal cultures have been received and are being maintained at
this laboratory. Equipment and apparatus are being set up to
1-nitiate studies next quarter relating to the nutritional
requirements of selected algal species. If requested equipment
is received, a laboratory study will be conducted in cooperation
with the Ecological Control Branch on samples of effluents from
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Ely, Minnesota.
Algal Assays Procedures Section
The Provisional Algal Assay Procedures (PAAP) have been revised
and will be distributed to members of the Task Force on Eutrophicatiqn.
The three species 0 f algae to be used in the PAAP test are now
being maintained at the Pacific Northwest Water Laboratory and will
be available to other laboratories. Equipment and apparatus
indicating a continuous flow chemostat, is being set up to conduct
the PAAP at this laboratory.
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Aquatic Plant Control Section
It is anticipated that the negotiation of the contract with
Professor D. E. Jackson of Syracuse University to conduct a pilot
plant evaluation of viral control of algae will be completed soon
and the study will be initiated next quarter. Several grant
proposals dealing with viral and bacterial control of algae and
aquatic plants are pending approval.
The isolation and characterization of phycoviruses and small
scale studies of algal control with viruses are being continued
by Dr. Robert Safferman at the Cincinnati Laboratory. He has
found a superior culture medium for assaying SM—i virus. Character-
ization of the SM-i phycovirus has been completed. This was
accomplished through a cooperative program with the Plant Virology
Laboratory, U.S.D.A.
ECOLOGICAL CONTROL BRANCH
Status of Projects and Significant Accomplishments
Nutrient Control Section
The research grant awarded to the University of Washington for
studying effects of flushing nutrients from Moses Lake, Washington,
has not yet been modified to the satisfaction of the Federal Water
Pollution Control Administration. University of Washington
scientists are pre!3ntly concentrating their effcrts on Upper Parker
Horn of Moses Lake to monitor effects of unscheduled water releases
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‘U
from East Low Canal. All in-house research on the project has
been terminated.
Dr. Joe Neel, University of North Dakota, was awarded a
research grant by the Federal Water Pollution Control Adminis-
tration to study and evaluate the effects of aquatic weed harvest-
ing u Ofl the nutrient dynamics of Lake Salile, Minnesota. The
weed sampling program was initiated in September. The weed har-
vester has been purchased by the City of Detroit Lakes and has
been successfully field tested in Lake Melissa. NERP personnel
are analyzing aquatic plant samples collected by Dr. Neel. Soil
lysimeters were installed by NERP and City of Detroit Lakes
Personnel, and are operating satisfactorily. The USGS has com-
pleted construction of stream gaging facilities and groundwater
observation wells for monitoring flow through the study area. Field
lysimeters which receive lagoon effluent from Detroit Lakes’ sewage
plant removed 90 percent phosphate content during the first trials.
Simulation in laboratory lysirneters produced similar phosphate
removal. Considerable organic nitrogen is removed from the peat—
soil in both sets of lysimeters through leaching.
Chemical analysis of surface waters in the Detroit Lakes study
area was cornnienced during August by University of North Dakota
personnel but all requested parameters were not initially measured,
pending instrumenta .ion set-up and technician orientation; these
difficulties are being resolved.
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The USGS is assembling a water table contour map and is pre-
paring a well inventory, pursuant to selection of groundwater
sampling sites.
Sediment-Water Interchange Section
Studies of sediment-water nutrient interchange emphasized
laboratory studies of U er Kiarnath Lake sediments. Field experi—
nients were not conducted because the plastic pools were in poor
condition. Consideration is still being given the construction
of new, more durable pools for use during the 1969 field season.
Sediment, water, and biological sampling continued at Upper
Kiamath Lake for monitoring purposes and to obtain experimental
material for the laboratory. Dr. Pacha’s project at Oregon State
University continues studies on biological transformation of
r.utrients in lake sediments.
Interchange of nutrients between sediment and water was
observed in September in Howard Bay, Upper Kiamath Lake, when
large amounts of Phormidium rose from the bottom, lifting masses
of sediment to the surface of the water. As a result, the water
was low in oxygen (less than 3.0 mg/i), high in conductivity
(185 micromhos/cm as compared to 122 in the main portion of the
lake), and high in nitrogen and phosphorus. Many small fish, 2 to
3 inches long, were killed by this lake condition which also caused
offensive odors along the adjacent highway. Soluble nutrients in
high concentrations were found in interstitial water from 5—foot
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sediment cores from Upper Kiamath Lake.
Sediment samples were found to be unstable when held at 4°C,
as measured by the decrease in soluble ortho phosphate content of
sediment interstitial water; storage at -16°C altered the samples
appreciably, the ortho phosphate increasing from 9 to 15 mg P/i
and total soluble phosphorus from 9 o 22 1119 P/I. Thus, nutrient
availability tests from this type of sediment must be performed
on fresh samples. Sterilization of Upper Kiamath Lake sediments
by cobalt irradiation at 3 to 6 megarads caused a large increase
in soluble ortho phosphate and soluble organic phosphorus in the
interstitial water from sediments.
Laboratory experiments on interchange were directed to growing
Chioreila in aquaria containing sediment and lake water, and lake
water only. The experiments indicdte that Upper Kiamath Lake
sediments from various locations do promote algal growth. Laboratory
studies with fresh lake sediment in contact with a 4-foot column
of lake water under aerobic and anaerobic conditions showed that
an increase of ortho phosphate and total phosphorus occurred in
the water under both donditions. However, the increase was only
threefold under aerobic conditions but sixfold under anaerobic
conditions and 0.02 to 2.1 my N/i under anaerobic conditions.
Biological Control Section
No activity.
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Sh awa Lake Project
Experiments on algal production in the three test basins,
using various ratios of lake water to tap water, to secondary
effluent, and to tertiary effluent continue. Experiment 3,
initiated early in August, was interrupted by failure of an
automatic valve which permitted discharge of caustic soda from
the tertiary plant into one of the basins. About two weeks were
lost because of this accident. Both dynamic and static experi-
ments have been carried out in the basins. Considerable diffi-
culty was experienced with regard to failure of flowmeters. These
are being replaced by the contractor with a more suitable type.
Weather was a deterrent to algal productivity studies, there
having been oniy seventeen days without rain during the entire
summer.
Dr. Robert 0. Megard of the University of Minnesota initiated
his productivity studies at Ely during September. Dr. George P.
Fitzgerald visited the Corvallis laboratory to discuss his algal
assay work at Ely, and submitted a report on results to date.
Grant and Contract Research -
Reviews of applications for research grants, demonstration
grants, and contracts were made on the following:
1. “Use of Lake Sediment Cores to Estimate Eutrophication”
by Professor G. Fred Lee, University of Wisconsin.
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2. “Eutrophication of Surface Waters--Lake Tahoe” by
Lake Tahoe Area Council - WPD-48-03-68.
3 ‘Effects of Domestic Pollution Abatement on a
Eutrophic Lake” by Mark W. Tenney, University of Notre Dame -
WPD- 126-03-68.
‘1. “Algal Degradation in Waterways” by Perry L. McCarty,
Stanford University - WP-1037-03.
5. “Limnological Effects of Organic Watershed Litter t ’
by William J. McConnell, University of Arizona — WP—01015-03.
6. “Standing Crop of Seston in Relation to Intensity and
Quality of Light in High Mountain Lakes” by Edward Brandt Reed,
Colorado State University - WP-01529-0i.
7 “Dr 1 r’if Tn4 l 4 nc 4n
I I S i ‘.. # I I II d. r • .1 I $4 a a ‘— II 1$.. I I I. LII I (a $.. I_ I II i a I I
Eutrophication” by D. E. Armstrong, University of Wisconsin.
8. “Experiment on Decreasing Eutrophication Rates in
Natural Waters” by Robert C. Harriss, Florida State University.
9. “Photopigment Control of Algal Blooms” by Donald S.
Berns, Health Research, Inc. and New York State Department of
Health - UI-00721.
10. “Primary Production and Decomposition in Estuarine
Waters” by Hugh 0. Putnam, University of Florida - WP-00578-04.
11. “Dynamics of the Nitrogen Cycle in Lakes” by
Vera A. Billaud, Ur 4 versity of Alaska - WP-00422-07.
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12. “An In Situ Evaluation of Nutrient Effects in Lakes”
by Michael E. Bender, University of Michigan.
13. “Proposal for Removing Algae Nutrients from Lakes”
by General Mills, Inc. (Chemical Division).
14. “Nitrogen Transformations in Lake Sediments” by
— I, ii :
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15. “Eutrophication in Lake Superior-Marquette Harbor”
Philip A. Doepke, Northern Michigan University — WP—01540-01.
Areas of Concern
Nutrient Control Section
Dr. Joe Neel did not begin his plant sampling in Lake Sallie
until September; therefore, data represent only the terminal
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IUII U 1 1 1C j jrjitI LIQ Q lI lI Ii
growing season are prerequisite to weed harvesting. If weed
harvesting of Lake Sallie were postponed until 1970, however,
shoreline residents of Lake Sallie would presumably be unhappy
because the Pelican River Watershed District assessed special taxa-
tion levies to the property owners for purchase of the weed
harvester.
Sediment-Water Interchana Section
Cores throughout Upper Kiarnath and Agency Lakes have not been
readily obtainable because of the exceedingly low water level
which prevents use of the boat except at the lower end of the lake
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fin
system. Adoitio 1 iaJ cor’ g equipment and accessories will need to
bc acquired f r long cc s (over 5 fe et) and br coring firm
edi nenLs suck e - t MCICICY Ldk€
Equ i Dment
A modified Livinystone viston corer as fabricated for tha
fill A fl — l — _ 11 — ‘ l flfl •fl nfl d — 3’ ‘3 a.,. a , nq— ‘ ad—a .4 l .a .a a. — .. ..‘? —
1fl41 VUaC. UI tIU’t.t III I ll’J I CJI C3C.II(.LA I.. I VC .IUl’LUIlIIJU CU LU I C I Ca
i-rom sort seoiments in Upper iciarnatn Lake.
Plans For 2nd Quarte , FV 1969
Nutrient Control S ection
Technicfl ssistonce to research rar t ;- c pientz in Lh
Detroit Lakes study will have high priority. Selection of ground—
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wc l.. .I ...tlh ;’s I I&’j a t-U Idj a VJ C 1 iU Il’(\( Li JjIIlIC I U LIIC a Q b Ofl
3f the City f D&troit Lake:, ll coitzizr 1 ce as early as possibTh.
A ’ ’ti ei frr! Ce3 by MEPP personnel t l1 be a large activity.
Sediment-Water int rcharsge 3—zctAon
Ihe foilowing papers 3re to be submitted for approval and
nnk l ;,. s-;,,.,,,
M — I $ I 4.
1. Tentatjtve title: ‘Sedinier.t-Water Algal Nutrie;i
Iriterth inri Prou s es n Likes.” A surnuary of NERP experirne iLO
work on solub 1 e iticrients ji interstitial water and the pos lc
relationship of this s urce to the ove-lying water.
2. “Sediment—Water Aig 1 kiutrient Interchange Prncesr s
hi Lakes: P;”ysiai, tamiL i, ?2:i’J 31c’c;icili Processes.” ; c
of the art su ,’ ’ ;.
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Laboratory studies of sediment—water interchange in the
presence of growing algae will be refined and continued. Addi-
tional coring in Upoer Kiamath Lake, if the water level permits,
will be made in cooperation with the U. S. Bureau of Reclamation
for nutrient and sediment quality determinations. Sediment
samples will be analyzed for interstitial water nutrient content
from lakes thrcughout the Midwest such as Sallie, Shagawa, Erie,
and from the Southwest. The study of the microbiological dissolution
of insoluble phosphates will be continued in cooperation with
Oregon State University.
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WASTE TREATMENT RESEARCH AND TECHNOLOGY PROGRAM
9841/1204, 1206, 1210, 1301
This program, fcrmerly designated as the Tre rnent & Control
Research Program! was reorganized during the quarter to include
responsibility for regional technical projects activities in
— J _i — — 1- — 1. 1 — — A -‘ 1. . —, I, — — -. - T k , _ .1.
auu I t l v i u i. Ii a iiu . uvi.u, , , ,,.,. ,.,e
organization includes a branch entitled, “Paper & Allied Products
Research.” This branch has eight permanent positions and one
authorized temporary.
A second branch is “Food Wastes Research” which currently
does not have any budget or authorized positions. Some activities
are carried out by this program, however, by research demonstration
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personnel supported by other branches in the program.
The third branch is entitled “Special Studies.” This branch
has personnel supported out of Technical Projects funds; technical
projects and national research responsibilities assigned to it
currently include Wood Products Research and Forestry and Logging
Research. This branch has a budget which currently supports ten
permanent positions and two authorized temporary positions.
Neither of these research projects is currently funded. Quarterly
reports for each of these three branches follow:
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75
PAPER AND ALLIED PRODUCTS RESEARCH BRANCH - 9841/1204
Status of Projects and Significant Accomplishments
Polymers in Waste Treatment
In-house studies to examine the effects of polymers on increas-
ing suspended solids separation are continuing. Numerous polymers
are being screened prior to the start of piiot and full scale
demonstrations.
Research Needs in the Pulp and Paper Industry
Arrangements have been concluded through the American Paper
Institute for industry input to a listing of research needs of
the pulp and paper industry.
Slime Control
budget restrictions nave forced discontinuance of the in-nouse
project devoted to the microbiological study of Sphaerotilus natans
growth. This project was a cooperative study with Crown-Zellerbach
Corporation as a part of its demonstration grant.
Grant and Contract Research
A Section 5 research proposal has been submitted by Oregon
State University for studies of the growth of S. natans in test
streams located at the Crown Zellerbach-Lebanon project site. This
research will replace in-house studies formerly active at the
Pacific Northwest Wdter Laboratory.
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‘a
The following active demonstration grant projects are adminis-
tered through project officer assignments to the Corvallis
laboratory:
1. Pulp Manufacturers Research League, Appleton,
Wisconsin, WPRD 12-01-68. This project is to demonstrate the
applicability of reverse osmosis in the treatment of weak pulp
and paper waste streams. The trailer-mounted osmosis unit for
the Pulp Manufacturers Research League project has been completed
following prolonged testing procedures.
2. Beet Sugar Development Foundation, Longmont, Colorado,
WPRD 43-01-67. This project is studying problems associated with
closed cycle recirculation of flume water at sugar beet plants.
3. Mead Corporation, Chillicothe, Ohio, WPRD 55-01—67.
This project is examining combinations of three biological systems
for secondary treatment of pulp and paper wastes.
4. Crown-Zellerbach Corporation, Lebanon, Oregon,
WPRD 69-01-63. This project is to demonstrate secondary treatment
of sulfite pulp mill waste using aerated lagoon. General construc-
tion of facilities began this quarter.
5. Robertson Pulp and Paper Laboratory, Raleigh, North
Carolina, WPRD 115-01-68. Efforts are directed toward obtaining
treatment of weak black liquor streams by filtration of such
waste through chips going to the pulping process.
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6. Georgia Kraft Company, Rome, Georgia, WPRD 117-01-68.
This project is studying the separation of biologically active
materials by the USC of foam separation.
7. Georgia Kraft Company, Macon, Georgia, WPRD 116-01—68.
Construction is under way on facilities to reduce the pollutional
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8. Crown-Zellerbach Corporation, Camas, Washington,
WPRD 144-01-68. The objectives of this project are to examine
four methods for the disposal of sludges from clarifiers treating
pulp and paper wastes.
Areas of Concern
Tn_hr%IIe rrii r t rr uirt I?11v 1imin?tt d ,1 ,irinri thA riirr n+
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fiscal year because current budget and manpower restrictions only
provide the minimum personnel needed for surveillance of the exist-
ing research and demonstration grant projects. Additional man-
power is desperately needed in order to meet the established
research goais.
Reports and Papers
1. “The Effect of Citrate on Growth of Sphaerotilus natans
on Ammonium Nitrogen.” M. D. Knittel and 1. Shiroyama, Bacteriological
Proceedings, page 54, 1968.
2. “Growth Response of Sphaerotilus sp. in Organic Enriched
Media.” M. D. Knittel. Presented at the Pacific Northwest Pollution
Control Association, Per,ticton, B.D., October 1968.
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Eq ui pment
New equipment, including a streaming current meter, for
studies related to the use of polymers in pulp mill waste treat-
ment was acquired.
Plans for 2nd Quarter, FY 1969
It is anticipated that the requirements cf grant adminis-
tration will occupy the majority of available time. Program
reviews are planned for the grants programs of the Robertson
Pulp and Paper Laboratory, Beet Sugar Development Foundation,
and the Georgia Kraft Company at Rome, Georgia. The “Polymer
in Waste Treatment” research program will include field applica-
tion employing pilot facilities utilized in parallel with
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paper mills on the Willamette and Columbia Rivers. The Crown
Zellerbach-Lebanon project will become operational. A compilation
of research needs is expected from the American Paper Institute.
It is anticipated that the American Paper Institute will submit
a proDosal for development of a state-of-the-art document.
FOOD WASTES RESEARCH BRANCH - 9841/1206
Status of Projects and Significant Accomplishmen
The cooperative study on secondary treatment of potato process-
ing wastes was terminated July 1, 1968. Three ponds (40 feet square
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29
by 10 feet deep) were operated aerobic with surface aerators and
anaerobic for two processing seasons. Analysis of the data is
continuing p,’ior to completion of the fina report. About 500
copies of a progress report which was completed during the quarter
on the operation of a full-scale aerated lagoon used to treat food-
processing wastes were distributed to interested parties.
Proceedings of the Potato Waste Symposium held March 8, 1968,
at the LIni’ .’ rsity cf !d hc in M.csccw. !daho was ce ”p1et d a’ d
sent out for reproduction.
National Canners Association activities were visited and dis-
cussed in detail. Pilot plants used on the three Section 6 R&D
grants were seen in operation.
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Grant and Contract Research
A grant was awarded to the University of Washington to develop
- a state-of-the-art paper on potato processing wastes. Assistance
is being given to the preparation of grant applications for similar
papers on frozen and canned fruits and vegetables, beet sugar, and
feriiieniatiori WdSteb.
Current demonstration grant projects for which the Branch Chief
has been assigned as Project Officer include the following:
1. Snokist Growers, Yakima, Wasiington- WPRD 58-01-68.
This project is to study various aeration methods of treatment for
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30
food processing wastes using mechanically aerated ponds. This
project is starting its second year of operation.
2. R. 1. French Co., Shelley, Idaho - WPRD 15-01-68.
This project is to demonstrate treatment of wastes from potato
processing using mechanically aerated ponds. Design has been
completed on the proposed waste treatment facilities and construction
bids are now being called.
3. Dallas, Oregon, Joint Municipal and Industrial
Waste Treatment Facilities - WPRD 29-O1- 68. This project involves
aeration treatment of municipal and industrial wastes and the
treatment facilities are currently under construction.
Several Section 6 grant applications were reviewed.
C UI ‘ .UII I H
As yet, there has been, no assignment of personnel or funds
to subprogram 1206.
Reports and Papers
An oral presentation on the “State-of-the-Art of Potato
Waste Treatment” was given August 1, 1968, at the 18th National
Potato Utilization Conference in Corvallis, Oregon. A paper was
forwarded for inclusion in the proceedings of the three-day
conference.
Egu i prnent
No equipment was purchased.
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Plans for 2nd Quarter, FY 1969
Complete final report on secondary treatment of potato process-
ing wastes. Assist Potato Processors of Idaho Association in design
of, and analysis of data from pilot plant activities. Initiate
planning on a workshop to be held next spring with participants
from industry and government on research efforts and needs relative
to food processing wastes. Continue efforts aimed at generating
applications for grants to develop much-needed state—of-the-art
papers in the areas of milk and dairy products, fish and shellfish,
cane sugar, non-alcoholic beverages, distillation industry, and
grain mills. Continue work as project ofFicer on assigned grants
and start to visit other R&D grant sites in food wastes research.
SPECIAL STUDIES BRANCH - 9841/1210, 1301
Status of Projects and Significant Accomplishments
Wood Products (1210 )
The final report for the Plywood Plant Glue Waste Study has
been completed and is undergoing internal review. The in-house
pilot plant study on aerobic treatment of urea formaldehyde glue
wastes from hardwood plywood mills and steam vat condensate
generated during veneer production from Douglas-fir logs has
completed its first two phases of operation. A progress report on
the findings of this phase of the study has been prepared. A
bench scale study on the feasibility of anaerobic trickling filter
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treatment of urea glue and steam vat condensate wastes has been -
initiated. This study will investigate the efficiency of this
method of treatment at loadings of 40, 80, and 160 lb COD/l00 ft 3
at a temperature of 37°C. Aerobic treatment of these wastes is
feasible and quite efficient with rio pH adjustment or nutrient
addition.
Forestry and Logging (1301 )
Arrangements have tentatively been made with the Federal
Facilities, Pacific Northwest Regional Office, for the prepara-
tion of an industrial waste guide on resource management on
forested lands to assure high quality streamfiow. An outline
for the guide has been prepared and is being reviewed.
Grant and Contract Research
Revised objectives for research grant WPRD-174 have been
submitted by Kiamath Plywood Corporation because of high costs
for the aerobic treatment process. These changes call for treat-
ment by anoerobic trickling filter rather than aerobic treatment.
Areas of Concern
At the present time grants are being awarded which we are
not aware of. It would be desirable that all grant applications
in this area be reviewed by this Program. If it is desired that
research activities be conducted in these subprogram elements, it
is essential that positions and funds be allocated in accordance
with PPB submissions.
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.ports and Papers
None
Egui pment
A three unit microfermenter is being placed into operation,
and will be used for the anaerobic trickling filter studies.
Plans for 2nd Quarter, FY 1969
Work will continue on treatment studies relating to urea glue
and steam vat condensate. It is expected that the final report
on the Plywood Plant Glue Waste Study will be ready for publication.
A Technical Project on Log Handling and Storage, requested
by the States of Oregon and Washington will begin about January 1,
1969. This project will essentially involve determininu the maani-
tude 0 f the log handling and storage problem, determining the
characteristics of wastes from log ponds, cold decks, and log
rafting and evaluation of the effect of the waste discharge on
receiving waters. This study is to be completed by July 1970.
The preparation of the industrial waste guide for the Forestry and
Logging Project will be started.
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BIOLOGICAL EFFECTS RESEARCH PROGRAM
Status of Projects and Significant Accomplishments
The “Simulation of Adult Salmon Migration Through Elevated
Temperatures” and “Tissue Enzyme Studies” projects were reported
in the National Thermal Pollution Research Program portion of
this quarterly report.
Adverse Properties of Sulfite Waste Liquor
This project is located at Corvallis and is supported by the
Waste Treatment Research and Technology Program. All reagents
and equipment are in readiness, and arrangements have been made
for test specimens. Artificial wet-spawning will be conducted in
various concentrations of raw and treated SWL, using coho salmon.
Last year’s data have been developed into two preliminary manu-
scripts entitled:
“Effects of Sulfite Waste Liquor on Fertilization and
Early Life Stages of Steelhead Trout ( Salmo g irdneri), ” and
“Effects of Sulfite Waste Liquor on Water Flow Through
Artificial Intra—gravel Chambers,”
The results demonstrate that SWL has spermatocidal properties.
Fish Kill Investigations
A fish kill was investigated at John Day Dam on the Columbia
River. Ar estimated 11,000 adult salmon died. Supersaturated
nitrogen (>130%) conditions in the river were related to the
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spiliway and “gas bubble” disease was diagnosed and is considered
to be the most probable cause of the kill.
Grant and Contract Research
Review of applications for research grants was made on the
following:
Thermal Pollution and Diseases of Salmonid Fish by Fryer
and Pilchers, Oregon State University.
Areas of Concern
Total water quality and quantity, and space are inadequate
at PNWL to meet program needs.
pprts and Pipers
See “Adverse Properties of Sulfite Waste Liquor” on page 34.
Equipment and Facilities
Facilities at Bonneville, Oregon, were constructed to study
the effect of elevated temperatures on the migration of adult
salmon.
A Biological Effects Laboratory is being planned as’ a
supplementary facility for the Pacific Northwest Water Laboratory.
• A utility easement description was prepared during the quarter
for water supply and sewer line construction from the Government—
owned site of the proposed laboratory to the Willamette River. The
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35
Corvallis City Council adopted a resolution granting this utility
easement to the Government. The City Council is preparing a legal
form of the easement. A site visit was conducted by Facilities
Management representatives from headquarters and decisions made
regarding size, materials, and general layout of the building.
The local architect-engineer has been asked to submit a proposal
for preparation of the construction plans and documents.
Plans for 2nd Quarter, FY 1969
1. Effort will continue to determine the heat lability of
key enzymes in Pacific salmon and trash fish.
2. Coho salmon will be wet-spawned in various concentrations
of treated and raw SWL.
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TRAINING AND MANPOWER DEVELOPMENT - 9825/000
Status of Projects and Sicinificant Accomplishments
Technical Training
Three technical training courses were presented during the
quarter for a total of 78 trainees as follow:
“water uaiity tuaies - duly I - b-- trainees,
“Basic Freshwater Biology” - Sept. 9-13--25 trainees, and
“Freshwater Pollution Ecology” - Sept. 16-20--28 trainees.
Cooperative Area Manpower Planning System (CAMPS )
As a part of the manpower Development Training Program, a
curriculum has been developed for training of sewage treatment
plant operators at the Yakima Community College. It is proposed
to establish a course at the Benton-Linn Community College.
Pollution control technician training has been established at
the Oregon Technical Institute, Kiamath Falls, Oregon.
General
Approximately 165 people were given tours of the Laboratory
and an orientation relating to the role of the FWPCA in water
pollution control.
Egui pment
A closed-circuit television system was installed for use in
the technical training courses.
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38
Plans for 2nd Quarter, FY 1969
Technical training courses a e planned as follows:
“Basic PrL;ciples of Wastewater Treatmer” - Nov. 4—8,
“Current Practices in Water Microbiology” - Dec. 2-13,
Heat Pollution Seminar - November 25-26.
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POLLUTION SURVEILLANCE - 9822/000
Status of Projects and Significant Accomplishments
Water quality sampling at established sampling locations has
been conducted primarily for the purpose of determining compliance
with water quality standards. All of the 39 stations are visited
at least monthly by Pollution Surveillance personnel. Routine
sampling has indicated several areas which are below the required
“standards.’ Additional sampling and concentrated field studies
are planned to collect specific information needed before corrective
action can be recommended. The areas involved are influenced by
the lumber industry and by the mining industry. Some progress
has been made in the analysis of plankton data collected at the
stations in the past. A working paper on these findings is being
prepared.
EIL DO/Temperature instruments were used with Rustrak recorders
to monitor the fluctuation of those parameters below Brownlee,
Oxbow, and Hells Canyon Dams on the Snake River. Monitors were
visited on a biweekly basis and results obtained were fair. The
project was undertaken as assistance to the TA&I Branch which was
collecting detailed information on the effects of hydroelectric
developments on the quality of the Snake River.
The SHAVES system was modified to provide easier and more
flexible retrieval of data through the “Report” routine. In
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addition, provision was made for statistical summaries of data
as a part of the program.
inventories of Municipal Waste Facilities. in Oregon and
Montana were updated and forwarded to Washington, D.C., for
inclusion in formal publications.
State water pollution control plans for Idaho, Oregon,
Montana, and Alaska were reviewed with regard to the surveillance
programs contained.
Considerable success has been had in the operation of Robot
Monitors in trailers at both Oregon City, Oregon, and Mimer Dam,
Idaho. Experience gained during the summer operations will be
a guide to effective operation during the critical winter period
at Mimer Dam.
Equipment
A specially built l7 foot trailer was delivered in July by
Aloha Trailer Company for use as a mobile laboratory. The unit
w s usec! in a b cterio’og CEi study of Flathead t ke, Montana, and
by tne Fisheries Research Unit, PNWL , at the Bonneville Dam lab.
Future use at surveillance stations duiing field studies is planned.
Plans for 2nd Quarter, FY 1969
Routine sampling will continue throughout the second quarter
of FY l 69. A re-evaluation of surveillance needs will be made
by all operating programs of the region and future sampling will
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be modified accordingly. A report on the plankton sampling
program at WPSS stations will be completed for limited distri-
bution. As time and manpower permit, specific field studies
will be conducted to provide information required in order to
recommend corrective action at several below-standard locations.
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TECHNICAL ASSISTANCE AND INVESTIGATIONS - 98 18A/000
Status of Projects arid Significant Accomplishments
Flathead Lake Study
Two field surveys were performed in which a total of 791
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aflipie we anGuyLeu iur ut.ai leLal . . 1u Q.II JLe
were also taken which confirmed the theory that seepage from
septic tank drainfields can and does enter the lake. A final
report on the project is being prepared.
Middle Snake River Study
Two field surveys were completed during the quarter in which
34 stations were analyzed for D.0. and temperature.
Willamette River Survey
A joint OSSA, FWPCA bacteriological survey was conducted on
the Willamette River. Some 450 samples were taken during three
separate runs which were analyzed for total and fecal coliform.
Results from the analyses were forwarded to Dr. Westgarth for
inclusion in his report. The survey is complete.
Columbia River Thermal Effects Study
Project is under supervision of Thermal Pollution. TA&I man-
power was loaned to prepare the study site which is now 98 percent
complete.
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43
Dredging Study
Project is under supervision of Technical Assistance and
Investigations, Northwest Region, and is being given assistance
by PNWL personnel.
Plans for ?nd Quarter, FY 1969
A third field survey will be made of the Sn& River after
which the continuous D.O. and temperature monitors installed
below the dams will be removed.
A spot survey, to review operational data by the States of
Oregon and Washington for treatment facilities built with
Federal grant funds, will be conducted.
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CONSOLIDATED LABORATORY SERVICES PROGRAM
Status of Projects and Significant Accomplishments
The laboratory has reduced its backlog of analyses from
2400 at the end of June, to 900 at the end of September. Storage
space for amples was reduced from three cold rooms and space in
the storage area to one cold room and reduced space in the storage
area. With daily computer keypunching, the lag time between
receipt of sample and report of analysis has been reduced.
The automated analytical system has been adapted to nitrite,
nitrate, and ammonia nitrogen determinations.
Oxygen uptake on samples from the Willamette River and
Bellingham Harbor were run on the Gilson Differential Respirorneter
and standard Warburg equipment. The Gilson unit has many features
that make it superior to the standard unit.
J treas of Concern -
Kjeldahl digestion equipment for the Technicon has not been
delivered and this is causing a backlog in Kjeldahl digestion.
Reports and Papers
The Chief of Consolidated Laboratory Services presented a talk
on “SampleHandling and Preservation” at the PNPCA annual meeting
at Penticton, B.C., October 1968.
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45
Equipment
The three unit Microferrnenter has been delivered and is
operational. The L” it is presently being used as an anaerobic
biological filter for handling steam vat wastes.
Plans for 2nd Quarter, FY 1969
Will develop a program to incorporate analytical quality
control data which is routinely run for presentation with reported
data. Will prepare a working paper for the calculation of results
from the automated analytical systems.
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