EPA 910/9-88-226
SEPA
Unitea biates
Environmental Protection
Agency
Region 10
1200 Sixth Avenue
Seattle WA98101
Alaska
Idaho
Oregon
Washington
Water Division
Water Resources Assessment
October 1988
Coquille, Oregon
Dredged Material Disposal
Site Designation
Draft Environmental Impact Statement
sand
dunes
NORTH
JETTY
Bandon
SOUTH
JETTY
rocks
^/Coquille
rocks —
rocks 'Jl
LEGEND
Interim Site
I Adjusted Site
YARDS
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DRAFT
ENVHOOSNIftL IMEftCT SBflEMENT
COQUILLE OCEAN DREDGED MATERIAL DISPOSAL SITE (CEMJS)
EESIGNKTXCN
Prepared by
U.S. ENWEGNMENIHL PROJECTION ACZNCY (Region 10)
With Technical Assistance Fran
U.S. Army, Corps of Engineers
Portland District
N 10 LIBRARY
RX000037504
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COWER SHEET
Draft
ENVIRONMENT IMPACT STATEMENT
COQUIIiE OCEAN DREDGED MATERIAL DISPOSAL SITE (QEMDS)
DESIGNATION
Lead Agency: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 10
Responsible Official: Robie G. Russell
Regional Administrator
Environmental Protection Agency
1200 Sixth Avenue
Seattle, Washington 98101
Abstract:
This draft EIS provides information to support designation of an ocean
dredged material disposal site (QEMDS) in the Pacific Ocean off the mouth of
the Coquille River in the State of Oregon. The proposed COOS is an
adjusted location lying north-northeast of an existing, interim-designated
site. Site designation studies were conducted by the Portland District,
Corps of Engineers, in consultation with Region 10, EPA. The adjusted QEMDS
was judged to be a safer location with less potential for adverse environ-
mental effects. No significant or long-term adverse environmental effects
are predicted to result from the designation. The designated QEMDS would
continue to receive sediments dredged by the Corps of Engineers to maintain
the federally-authorized navigation project at Coquille River, Oregon, and
other dredged materials authorized in accordance with Section 103 of the
Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act of 1972 (MPRSA). Desig-
nation of an QEMDS does not constitute or iirply approval of an actual
disposal of material. Before any disposal may occur, a specific evaluation
by the Corps must be made using EPA's ocean clumping criteria. EPA makes an
independent evaluation of the proposal and has the right to disapprove the
actual disposal.
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Public Review and Comment Process:
This EIS is offered for review and comment to members of the public, special
interest groups, and government.agencies. No public hearings/meetings are
scheduled. Conments received on this draft EIS will be addressed in the
final. All conments or questions may be directed to:
John Malek
Ocean Dumping Coordinator
Environmental Protection Agency
1200 Sixth Avenue, WD-138
Seattle, Washington 98101
Telephone: (206) 442-1286
Deadline for Conments:
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EXECUTIVE SIMVRRY
Site Designation, section 102(c) of the Marine Protection, Research,
and Sanctuaries Act of 1972, as amended, 33 U.S.C. 1401 et seq. (MPRSA),
gives the Administrator of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
the authority to designate sites where ocean dumping may be permitted. On
October 1, 1986, the Administer delegated the authority to designate ocean
dumping sites to the Regional Administrator of the Region in which the site
is located. EPA has voluntarily committed to prepare EISs in connection
with ocean dumping site designations (39 FR 16186, May 7, 1974).'
This draft environmental impact statement (EIS) was prepared by Region 10,
epa, with the cooperation of the Portland District, U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers. This draft EIS provides documentation to support final
designation of an ocean dredged material disposal site (OEMDS) for
continuing use to be located off the mouth of the Coquille River, Oregon.
This document evaluates the proposed Coquille CO®S site based on criteria
and factors set forth in 40 CFR 228.5 and 228.6. This EIS makes full use of
existing information to discuss various criteria, supplemented by field data
to describe environmental conditions within and adjacent to the site.
As a separate but concurrent action, EPA will publish a proposed rule in the
Federal Register for formal designation of the adjusted Coquille OEMDS.
Major Conclusions and Findings. The preferred OEMDS for final
designation is an adjusted location 1,500 feet north-northeast of the
existing, interim site. The adjusted site, when designated, will be used
for disposal of sediments dredged by the Corps to maintain the federally
authorized navigation project at Coquille River, Oregon, and for disposal of
materials dredged during other actions authorized in accordance with Section
103 of the MPRSA. The adjusted COOS site proposed for designation is
located in an area more suitable than the interim site in terms of
environmental and navigational safety factors.
Disposal of the dredged sediments is a necessary component of maintaining
the navigation project. An evaluation of disposal alternatives was
conducted. No less environmentally damaging, economically feasible
alternative to ocean disposal for material dredged from the entrance to the
Coquille River project was identified. In addition, use of ocean disposal
for other channel reaches and by other dredgers may be expected to increase
as other disposal options are exhausted. Designation of an QDMDS is
necessary to accomodate this need.
Three alternatives for ocean disposal were considered for the Coquille
OEMDS.
1) Termination of ocean disposal at Coquille.
2) Designation of the existing interim OEMDS.
3) Designation of an adjusted OEMDS.
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Based on the evaluation of need and an assessment of environmental impacts
from historic dredged material disposal, termination of ocean disposal at
Coquille was not considered prudent or reasonable. Evaluation focussed on
the existing interim ODMDS, the adjusted ODMDS proposed for designation, and
consideration of an OEMDS beyond the continental shelf. The procedures used
to evaluate these options consisted of evaluating each of the five general
and eleven specific criteria as required in 40 CFR 228.5 and 228.6. Use of
an ODMDS beyond the continental shelf provided no environmental advantages
and incurred significant economic costs.
The interim site, or areas in the same vicinity, have been used since 1897.
Since then a total of about 2.4 million cy have been disposed in the general
area of the QEMDS, of Which 509,000 cy have been disposed since the existing
site received its interim designation in 1977. This interim designation was
published in 40 CFR 228.12 and identified the following comer coordinates
for the site:
43 deg. 07' 54" N. 124 deg. 27' 04" W.
43 deg. 07' 30" N. 124 deg. 26' 27" W.
43 deg. 07' 20" N. 124 deg. 26' 40" W.
and 43 deg. 07' 44" N. 124 deg. 27' 17" W.
The interim site is located approximately 1 mile from the entrance, with
dimensions of 3,600 feet by 1,400 feet, average depth of 60 feet, and
southeast-northwest orientation along its long axis. The site occupies
approximately 116 acres (.13 sq nautical miles).
Field data collected to support designation of the interim site and
interviews with vessel operators revealed safety and environmental concerns
with its location. This is due to its proximity to rocky substrate and
pinnacles associated with Coquille Point and the Oregon Islands National
Wildlife Refuge to the south. As a result, an adjusted location was defined
and is proposed for final site designation. The adjusted site has the
following corner and centroid coordinates:
43 deg. 08' 26" N. 124 deg. 26' 44" w.
43 deg. 08' 03" N. 124 deg. 26' 08" W.
43 deg. 08' 13" N. 124 deg. 27' 00" W.
and 43 deg. 07' 50" N. 124 deg. 26' 23" W.
43 deg. 08' 08" N. 124 deg. 26' 34" W. (centroid)
The adjusted site is located approximately 1,500 feet north-northeast of the
interim site, also approximately 1 mile from the entrance. Its dimensions
are slightly larger than the interim site, 3,500 feet by 1,750 feet, and
occupies approximately 150 acres (.17 sq nautical miles). Average depth and
southeast-northwest orientation are similar to the interim site.
After applying the five general and eleven specific criteria to the
available options, designation of the adjusted QCMDS was selected as the
preferred alternative. Continued use of the interim ODMDS would not be
expected to cause unacceptable adverse environmental effects. The interim
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disposal site encompasses large areas of exposed rock and scattered rock
outcrops as well as areas covered by fine sand. The extent of rock
exposures and proximity to reef shoals presents both a hazard to the hopper
dredges and potential for sane adverse environmental impacts. The adjusted
site does not have these concerns and is therefore considered the better
site.
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TABLE OF ccnients
Page
Cover Sheet i
Summary iii
Table of Contents vii
I. INTRODUCTICN 1
II. PURPOSE AND NEED 3
General 3
Location 3
Need 3
Project History 5
Historical OEMDS Use 5
III. ALTERNATIVES 7
General 7
Constraints 7
Resource Considerations 7
Equipment Considerations 7
Consideration of Upland Disposal Options 8
Ocean Disposal Options 8
Application of General Criteria 8
Minimal Interference With Other Activities 8
Minimizes Changes in Water Quality 9
Interim Sites Which Do Not Meet Criteria 9
Size of Sites 11
Sites Off The Continental Shelf 11
Application of Specific Criteria 11
Geographic Location 11
Distance From Important Living Resources 12
Distance From Beaches and Other Amenities 13
Types and Quantities of Material to be Deposited 13
Feasibility of Surveillance and IVfonitoring 14
Dispersal, Horizontal Transport, and vertical Mixing
Characteristics 14
Effects of Previous Disposal 14
Interference With Other Uses of the Ocean 15
Existing Water Quality and Ecology 16
Potential for Recruitment of Nuisance Species 17
Existence of Significant Natural or Cultural Features 17
I¥. AFFECTED EM/IRCNMENT 19
General 19
Physical Environment 19
General 19
Geology 20
Circulation and Currents 20
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TABLE OF CONTENTS (Cont. )
Water and Sediment Quality 20
Biological Environment 20
General 20
Benthic 21
Fishes 21
Wildlife . . . 21
Endangered Species 21
Socio-Ecoronic Environment 22
General . . 22
Natural Resource Harvesting (Corrmercial) 22
Recreation 22
Cultural Resources 23
V. ENVIReS®®NEftL CONSEQUENCES . 25
General 25
Physical Effects 25
Biological Effects 25
Socio-Econcmic Effects 26
Coastal Zone Management 27
Unavoidable Adverse Impacts 27
Relationship Between Short-Term Uses of the Environment and
Maintenance and Enhancement of Long-Term Productivity .... 27
Irreversible and Irretrievable Conrritments of Resources ..... 27
VI. COORDINATION 29
Coordination By the Corps of Engineers 29
Coordination By EPA 29
VII. LIST OF PREPARERS 31
VIII. GENERAL BIBLIOGRAPHY 33
* APPENDICES
Appendix A:
Appendix B:
Appendix C:
Appendix D:
Appendix E:
Appendix F:
Living Resources
Geological Resources, Oceanographic Processes, and
Sediment Transport of the Coquille ZSF
Sediment and Water Quality
Recreational Use
Cultural Resources
Ccaiments and Coordination
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I. IWIRCDUCTICW
This draft environmental iirpact statement (EES) was prepared by Region 10,
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), with the cooperation of the
Portland District, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps). Section 102(c) of
the Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act of 1972, as amended, 33
U. S.C. 1401 et sea. (MPRSA), gives the Administrator of the EPA the
authority to designate sites where ocean dumping may be permitted. On
October l, 1986, the Administer delegated the authority to designate ocean
dumping sites to the Regional administrator of the Region in which the site
is located. EFA has voluntarily cormitted to prepare EISs in connection
with ocean dunping site designations (39 FR 16186, May 7, 1974).
Disposal site studies were designed and conducted by the Corps, in
consultation with EPA, and a Site Evaluation Report was prepared and
coordinated by the Corps. That Site Evaluation Report described conditions
in the vicinity of the existing interim ocean dredged material disposal site
(OEMDS) at Coquille River, Oregon. The Coquille OEMDS received its interim
designation from EPA in 1977 (40 CFR 228.12). The MPRSA requires that, for
a site to receive a final OEMDS designation, the site must satisfy the
specific and general disposal site criteria set forth in 40 CFR 228.6 and
228.5, respectively. The Corps report proposed that an (HMDS in an adjusted
location 1,500 feet north-northeast from the existing OEMDS be designated by
EFA. The report also documented compliance of the proposed CEMDS with
requirements of the following laws:
Endangered Species Act of 1973,
National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, and the
Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, all as amended.
That document was submitted to EPA for review and processing for formal
designation by the Regional Administrator, Region 10. The Corps' Site
Evaluation Report was used as the basis of this draft EIS. Technical
appendices from the Corps' report are included as appendices to this draft
EIS.
EIS-1
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II. PURPOSE AND NEED
General. This draft EIS provides documentation to support final designation
of an ocean dredged material disposal site (ODMDS) for continuing use to be
located off the mouth of the Coquille River, Oregon. This document
evaluates the proposed Coquille GDMDS site based on criteria and factors set
forth in 40 CFR 228.5 and 228.6 as required by the Ocean Dumping Regulations
(GDR) promulgated in the Federal Register on January 11, 1977, in accordance
with provisions set forth in Sections 102 and 103 of the MPRSA. This EIS
makes full use of existing information to discuss various criteria,
supplemented by field data to describe environmental conditions within and
adjacent to the site.
The preferred GEMDS for final designation is an adjusted location 1,500 feet
north-northeast of the existing, interim site. The adjusted site, when
designated, will be used for disposal of sediments dredged by the Corps to
maintain the federally authorized navigation project at Coquille River,
Oregon, and for disposal of materials dredged during other actions
authorized in accordance with Section 103 of the MPRSA. The adjusted GEMDS
site proposed for designation is located in an area more suitable than the
interim site in terms of environmental and navigational safety factors.
Location. The Coquille River enters the Pacific Ocean north of the town of
Bandon, Oregon, and 226 miles south of the mouth of the Columbia River
(figure 1). The estuary is fed mainly by the Coquille River, which drains
1,058 square miles and is 99.1 miles from its mouth to headwaters.
Need. The Corps is responsible for maintaining the Coquille River
navigation channel, which was federally authorized for the following
purposes:
o Provide entrance depths sufficient to accommodate vessels of
economical size.
o Provide a navigable channel up to Coquille River Mile 24, to the
town of Coquille.
o Increase safety by removing shallow rock pinnacles near the river
entrance.
The project further serves to decrease waiting times and increase safety for
vessels crossing the bar, and is one of the harbors of refuge along the
Oregon coast. Maintenance of the navigation channel to authorized depths is
critical to keeping the river and harbor open and sustaining vital
components of the local and state economy.
Disposal of the dredged sediments is a necessary component of maintaining
the navigation project. An evaluation of disposal alternatives was
conducted and is contained in Section III. Alternatives. No less
EIS-3
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ton
OREGON
'J DUNES
07'
Rk2-i^S w. 1
CXoqdBcPt
SCALE IN YARDS
1000
PROPOSED ADJUSTED LOCATION FOR FINAL SITE DESIGNATION
FIGURE 1
EIS - 4
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environmentally damaging, economically feasible alternative to ocean
disposal for material dredged from the entrance to the Coquille River was
identified. In addition, use of ocean disposal for other channel reaches
and by other dredgers may be expected to increase as other disposal options
are exhausted. Designation of an COVDS is necessary to accomodate this
need.
Project History. The existing dredging project was initially authorized by
Congress in 1910, although dredging had begun at the entrance in 1897. The
portion of the authorized project that will most potentially generate
dredged sediments for ocean disposal is the channel presently authorized to
13 feet deep and of suitable width from deep water to River Mile (RM) 1.3.
Because of navigation needs at Coquille, two rubble mound jetties were
constructed. The 3,450-foot-long north jetty was begun in 1883, completed
in 1908, and was extended in both 1940 and 1951. The 2,700-foot-long south
jetty was built in 1899 and extended in 1940. Snagging operations are
authorized to clear the channel up to RM 24.
The frequency of maintenance dredging depends on the volume of sediments
transported from upriver into the estuary and frequency and severity of
storms that move offshore sediments into the channel, creating a bar.
Typically, a shoal forms between the jetty ends, building from the north
jetty to mid- and, in sane years, full-channel. A second shoal forms
completely across the channel between RM 0.2 and 0.5. Sediments are fine to
medium sands. Average annual volume of dredged material deposited offshore
at Coquille from 1976 to 1985 has been 59,123 cubic yards (cy), with a range
of 2,500 to 115,910 cy placed in the 0DMDS each year. Annual volumes are
given in appendix B, table B-l.
The Corps is studying the need to deepen the Coquille River entrance channel
and has prepared a Detailed Project Report (DPR) for the proposed project.
The DPR recommended deepening the entrance bar to -18 feet NGVD for a length
of 1,200 feet. An estimated 74,000 cy would be dredged during initial
construction and average maintenance dredging requirements would increase an
estimated 20,000 cy per year. The draft DPR was distributed for public
review on March 5, 1987; a final DPR was completed in May, 1987.
Historical GDMDS use. The interim site, or areas in the same vicinity, have
been used since 1897. Dredging began in that year when the Corps had a
contractor remove shoals in the main channel. Dredging of the entrance bar
began at Coquille in 1920. Since then a total of about 2.4 million cy have
been disposed in the general area of the OEMDS, of which 509,000 cy have
been disposed since the existing site received its interim designation in
1977. This interim designation was published in 40 CFR 228.12 and
identified the following corner coordinates for the site:
43 deg. 07' 54" N.
43 deg. 07' 30" N.
43 deg. 07' 20" N.
and 43 deg. 07' 44" N.
124 deg. 27' 04" W.
124 deg. 26' 27" W.
124 deg. 26' 40" W.
124 deg. 27' 17" W.
EIS-5
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The interim site is located approximately 1 mile from the entrance, with
dimensions of 3,600 feet by 1,400 feet, average depth of 60 feet, and
southeast-northwest orientation along its long axis. The site occupies
approximately 116 acres (.13 sq nautical miles).
Field data collected to support designation of the interim site and
interviews with vessel operators revealed safety and environmental concerns
with its location. This is due to its proximity to rocky substrate and
pinnacles associated with Coquille Point and the Oregon Islands National
Wildlife Refuge to the south. As a result, an adjusted location was defined
and is proposed for final site designation (figure 1). The adjusted site
has the following corner and centroid coordinates:
43 deg. 08* 26" N. 124 deg. 26' 44" W.
43 deg. 08' 03" N. 124 deg. 26' 08" W.
43 deg. 08' 13" N. 124 deg. 27' 00" W.
and 43 deg. 07' 50" N. 124 deg. 26' 23" W.
43 deg. 08' 08" N. 124 deg. 26' 34" W. (centroid)
The adjusted site is located approximately 1,500 feet north-northeast of the'
interim site, also approximately 1 mile from the entrance. Its dimensions
are slightly larger than the interim site, 3,500 feet by 1,750 feet, and
occupies approximately 150 acres (.17 sq nautical miles). Average depth and
southeast-northwest orientation are similar to the interim site.
EIS-6
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Ill. ALTERNATIVES
Goieral. Under the MPRSA, designation of ocean dumping sites follow
specific requirements. In conjunction with the MPRSA, the Ocean Dumping
Regulations, as well as related EFA and Corps policies, must be followed.
Guidance for the evaluation process has been provided by the joint EPA/Corps
workbook (1984). This process generally involved three major phases. Phase
I includes delineation of the general area or Zone of Siting Feasibility
(ZSF), i.e., disposal is economically and technically feasible. The ZSF is
determined by establishing the reasonable haul distance, considering factors
such as available dredging equipment, energy use constraints, costs, and
safety concerns. Existing information on resources, uses, and environmental
concerns are reviewed and critical resources and areas of incompatibility
identified. Phase II involves identification of candidate sites within the
ZSF based on information evaluated in Phase I. Additional studies can be
conducted to further evaluate environmental and other factors, such as
disposal site management considerations. Phase III consists of evaluation
of candidate sites and selection of preferred site(s) for formal designation
by EPA. Preparation of this EIS and the designation rule is part of Phase
III.
Constraints. Dredging of the coastal ports is limited to a season from May
through September. That limit is imposed by the weather and sea states that
predominate in the Northwest. The size of the ZSF is controlled by the
capability and availability of dredging equipment as allocated among nine
Oregon coastal projects, and the haul distance. The limited operating time
available for completing the maintenance dredging along the Oregon coast,
therefore, requires a combination of government and private dredges, in a
typical year, the Coquille project requires equipment which will permit
production of 6,000 cy per day or approximately 14 days of work. Longer
hauling distances increase vessel operating costs and increase the time
required for completion of the work. Based on these factors, the limit of
the Coquille ZSF from a practical economic viewpoint is 1.5 nautical miles.
Resource Considerations. The natural and cultural resources of the area
within the ZSF were identified from information obtained through review of
literature, interviews with resource agencies, local users and through site-
specific studies (appendix A). Critical information was evaluated and
mapped to identify areas of resource conflict. The selection of resources
to use for this determination was dependent on whether the resource was
considered limited. A coast-wide resource, i.e., flat fish spawning area,
was not considered a limited resource and was not included in the overlay
evaluation technique.
Equipment Considerations. A hopper dredge must be used for maintenance work
near the river entrance because the rough seas encountered at the entrance
are not suitable for safe operation of a pipeline dredge. With a hopper
dredge, dredged material disposal would normally occur at an in-water site.
There are no suitable sites in the estuary because of its narrowness and
EIS-7
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shallowness. Disposal of entrance material inside the estuary would have
greater adverse environmental impacts than ocean disposal because estuarine
habitats are generally more productive and far less extensive than are
nearshore oceanic habitats. Disposal of the material inside the estuary
would also increase the risk of the material eroding and reshoaling in the
channel, potentially increasing dredging requirements.
Consideration of Upland Disposal Options. Upland disposal of entrance
channel material typically is not feasible for economic and environmental
reasons. Upland sites with large capacity seldom exist at such locations,
lybre distant upland sites incur substantially greater costs for rehandling
and transportation of the material and alteration of the sites normally
involves scxne environmental impact. Creation of a rehandling area also may
involve substantial environmental effects through alteration of marine or
estuarine habitats. Another potential adverse impact of upland disposal is
that the sediments would be removed from the littoral system and could
result in erosion of nearby shorelines over the long term.
Upland disposal was evaluated as an alternative to designation of an OEMDS.
A potential upland site was located on the north side of the Coquille
estuary. However, because a hopper dredge will be used to dredge the
entrance channel, direct discharge to the site is not possible. An in-water
sump would need to be dredged and the material bottom dumped into it, then
pumped ashore with a pipeline suction dredge. This would increase costs and
also would incur additional adverse environmental impacts by dredging the
rehandling site in the estuary. Therefore, ocean disposal would appear to
be the most practicable disposal alternative at Coquille if the authorized
channel is to be maintained. Upland disposal will also continue to be
evaluated as a potential alternative for specific disposal actions.
Ocean Disposal Options. Three alternatives for ocean disposal were
considered for the Coquille OEMDS.
1) Termination of ocean disposal at Coquille.
2) Designation of the existing interim OOyiDS.
3) Designation of an adjusted GCMDS.
Based on the evaluation of need and an assessment of environmental impacts
from historic dredged material disposal, termination of ocean disposal at
Coquille is not considered prudent or reasonable. Accordingly, evaluation
focussed on the existing interim COOS, the candidate adjusted OEMDS
proposed for designation, and consideration of an adjusted CEIYDS beyond the
continental shelf. The procedures used to evaluate these options consisted
of evaluating each of the five general and eleven specific criteria as
required in 40 CFR 228.5 and 228.6.
Application of General Criteria. Potential OEMDS sites were evaluated in
terms of the following general criteria.
Minimal Interference With Other Activities. The first of the five
criteria requires that a determination be made as to whether the site will
minimize interference of the proposed disposal operations with other uses of
EIS-8
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the marine environment. This determination was made by overlaying several
individual maps presented in the technical appendices onto a base me?)
showing bathymetry and location of the interim disposal site and the ZSF.
The following were evaluated as potential incompatibilities or resources of
limited distribution.
o Navigation Hazards Area/Other Recreation Areas
o Shellfish Areas
o Critical Aquatic Resource
o Ccnmercial and Sport Fishing Areas
o Geological Features
o Cultural and Historical Areas
Figure 2 shows the results of overlaying of each of the individual resources
to identify areas of highest cumulative resource interaction. Hie darker
the area the more interactions between various limited resources are taking
place. See appendix a for specific information and evaluation.
The existing interim site at Coquille lies in a region of extreme navigation
hazard due to exposed and partially exposed reefs. In addition to
presenting hazards to navigation, these are unusual features along the coast
and support a variety of aquatic organisms, including bull kelp (Nerocvstis
lutkeana) and its associated fish and invertebrate community. The alternate
site may lie at the southern end of a squid spawning area.
Most of the ZSF is within the area utilized by ccnmercial and sport salmon
fishing. This area is conmercially fished summer and fall of each year
(actual length of the fishing season is set annually by the Pacific
Fisheries Management Council). Disposal operations can take place from May
through October of each year. There is an overlap of times, but
communications with GDFW personnel indicate no observable conflicts between
the two uses of the area. Hie recreation salmonid fishery is not
concentrated in one location or time of year, and there have been no
observable conflicts between sports fishermen and disposal operations.
Appendix A provides a discussion of all potential conflicts within the ZSF
with living resources.
Minimizes Changes in Water Quality. The second of the five general
criteria requires that changes to ambient seawater quality levels occurring
outside the disposal site be within water quality standards and that no
detectable contaminants reach beaches, shorelines, sanctuaries, or
geographically limited fisheries or shellfisheries. The material from the
entrance channel is characterized as clean sand; because of this no
contaminants or suspended solids are expected to be released. No
significant water quality perturbations are expected. Bottom movement of
deposited material is discussed in Appendix b and, in general, shows a net
offshore movement rather than moving toward a limited resource.
Interim Sites Which Do Not Meet Criteria. The evaluation indicates
that the interim disposal site may not meet the criteria and factors
established in 40 CFR 228.5 due to navigation hazards in a portion of the
site. Concern for safety of the hopper dredge when the hopper doors are
EIS-9
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124®* 27'
I
BANOOM
i gc
SCALE IN YARDS
0 IOOO
»'»¦»»' 1
OVERLAY EVALUATION OF INDIVIDUAL RESOURCES
FOR HIGHEST CUMULATIVE RESOURCE VALUE
FIGURE 2
EIS..-10
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open suggests that it would be prudent to adjust the site slightly to the
north away frran the subsurface rocks. In addition, discharge at the interim
site may be impacting aquatic resources associated with those rocky
habitats. While the site may be environmentally acceptable for the present
types and quantities of dredged material it receives on an annual basis, a
less potentially damaging alternative location exists and is considered
preferable to the interim site.
Size of Sites. The size, configuration, and location of the adjusted
site was evaluated as part of the study. The adjusted site proposed for
designation is 3,500 feet long and 1,750 feet wide and encompasses
approximately 150 acres (.17 square nautical miles). It is similar in size,
shape, and location to the interim COOS. Both the interim and adjusted
OCMDS are dispersive. The interim site has handled the volumes of material
received annually in the past. Although volumes of material going to the
OIM3S are expected to increase slightly in the future as alternative
disposal options are exhausted, this increase is not expected to seriously
impact site capacity or resources outside the COOS. Public notices issued
by the Corps for ocean disposal operations at various federally-authorized
projects, as required by MPRSA, have not generated concerns about undue
impacts from their use. Both Coquille ODMDS are located close enough to
shore and harbor facilities that monitoring and surveillance programs, if
required, could easily be accomplished. Disposal practices could be altered
or site boundaries adjusted if warranted.
Sites Off The Continental Shelf. Any possible disposal sites off the
continental shelf near Oregon are at least 20 nautical miles offshore. The
ZSF for Coquille was defined after determining the economical haul distance
(1.5 nautical miles) from Shore. While there may be sane flexibility in
operations that could increase the haul distance somewhat, the minimum 20
nautical mile haul to utilize a continental slope disposal site is
economically prohibitive. The cost involved would make the federally-
authorized Coquille River project infeasible. The purpose of such a site
preference is to minimize environmental impacts from ocean clumping. In this
instance, evaluation of historic ocean dumping of dredged material did not
reveal actual or potential resource conflicts or unacceptable adverse
environmental effects due to ocean dumping of Coquille material at the
proposed adjusted ODMDS. Site sampling and evaluation and post-disposal
monitoring would be difficult and would be substantially more expensive due
to distance frcm shore and depth of water. In summary, use of an QEMDS off
the continental shelf did not offer any environmental advantages over a site
located closer to the shore but did involve substantially greater economic
disadvantages.
Application of Specific Criteria. Both COOS have been evaluated in terms
of the following specific criteria.
Geographic Location. Figure 1 indicates the location of the Coquille
interim OEMDS and the adjusted ODPCJS. Appendix B contains a detailed
discussion of the bottom conditions at the ZSF. The interim site lies in 40
to 80 feet of water, 1,250 yards offshore from the entrance to the Coquille
River. Corner coordinates are:
EIS-11
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43 deg. 07' 54" N.
43 deg. 07' 30" N.
43 deg. 07' 20" N.
and 43 deg. 07' 44" N.
124 deg. 27' 04" w.
124 deg. 26' 27" W.
124 deg. 26' 40" W.
124 deg. 27' 17" W.
The center of the interim COOS is on a 280 degree azimuth from the river
mouth. In general, it lies just north of the submerged extension of
Coquille Point on bottom contours sloping at about 60 feet per mile.
The adjusted ODMDS lies 1,500 feet north-northeast of the interim COOS.
Bottom contours and depths at the adjusted site are similar to those at the
interim COOS. The adjusted site has the following corner and centroid
coordinates:
43 deg.
08'
26"
N.
124 deg.
26'
44"
W.
43 deg.
08'
03"
N.
124 deg.
26'
08"
w.
43 deg.
08'
13"
N.
124 deg.
27'
00"
w.
and 43 deg.
07'
50"
N.
124 deg.
26'
23"
w.
43 deg.
08'
08"
N.
124 deg.
26'
34"
w.
(centroid)
Distance From Important Living Resources. Aquatic resources of the ZSF
are described in detail in appendix A. The interim and adjusted sites are
located in the nearshore area, and contain an abundance of aquatic life
characteristic of nearshore, sandy, wave-influenced regions common along the
coasts of the Pacific Northwest. The dominant conmercially and
recreationally important macro invertebrate species in the area are
shellfish, Dungeness crab, and squid. Recently, the Oregon Department of
Fish and Wildlife (GDFW) has identified a squid spawning area that overlays
the adjusted site. Numerous species of birds and marine mammals occur in
the pelagic nearshore and shoreline habitats in the ZSF.
Hie nearshore area off the Coquille River supports a variety of pelagic and
demersal fish species. Pelagic species include anadromous salmon,
steelhead, cutthroat trout, striped bass, and shad which migrate through the
estuary to upriver spawning areas. Although migratory species are present
throughout the year, individual species are present only during certain
times of the year. Demersal species present include English sole, sanddab,
and starry flounder which spawn in the inshore coastal area in the sunnier.
Benthic sampling and composition are discussed in detail in appendix A. The
species of invertebrates inhabiting the sandy portions of the ZSF are the
more motile psamnitic (sand-dwelling) forms Which tolerate or require high
sediment flux. Past and anticipated future disposal activities are not
expected to significantly effect this cormunity beyond the initial physical
impacts of disposal. Abundances of sane benthic organisms were higher at
the adjusted site than at the interim site.
The interim site contains submerged rocky habitats and is immediately
adjacent to the neritic reefs described in detail in appendix A. These are
unusual features along the coast and support a variety of aquatic organisms,
including bull kelp (Nerocvstis lutkeana) and its associated fish and
EIS-12
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invertebrate community. Pelagic species associated with the neritic reefs
to the east and south of the estuary and jetties include both resident and
non-resident species. The shallower reefs are dominated by black rockfish
while the deeper reefs are dominated by lingcod, yellow rockfish and black
rockfish. These rocky areas also have a very different benthic composition
from the surrounding, sandy environments. Past disposal activity does not
appear to have significantly impacted this comnunity.
The ocean waters contain many near shore pelagic organisms which include
zooplankton and meroplankton (fish, crab and other invertebrate larvae).
These organisms generally display seasonal changes in abundance and, since
they are present over most of the coast, are not critical to overall coastal
populations. Based on evidence from previous zooplankton and larval fish
studies, no impacts to organisms in the water column are predicted (Sullivan
and Hancock, 1977).
Portland District requested an endangered species listing for the ZSF from
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and National Marine Fisheries Service
(NMFS). The brown pelican and the gray whale represent the only species
which were listed. Based on previous biological assessments conducted along
the Oregon coast regarding impacts to the brown pelican and the gray whale,
no impact to either species is anticipated from the project. Letters of
concurrence are included in appendix F, Corrments and Coordination.
In sunmary, both the interim and adjusted GEMDS contain living resources
that could be affected by disposal activities. Evaluation of past disposal
activities do not indicate that unacceptable adverse effects to these
resources have occurred. The interim site contains and is in close
proximity to sutmerged rocks and reefs with rich and varied aquatic
corrcnunities. There is no evidence that past disposal has seriously impacted
these caimunities, and in the absence of any other disposal location the
interim site should be considered an acceptable site. However, the adjusted
site represents a potentially less impacting location and its use is
considered environmentally preferable.
Distance From Beaches and Other Amenities. The southeast corner of the
proposed site is approximately 1,250 yards from the end of the north jetty.
Both the interim and adjusted OCMDS are far enough removed that use of
either site would not affect these amenities.
. Types and Quantities of Material to be Deposited at the Site. The
final designated OCMDS will receive dredged materials transported by either
government or private contractor hopper dredges. The current dredges
available for use at Coquille have hopper capacities from 800 to 4,000 cy.
This would be the range in volumes of dredged material disposed of in any
one dredging/disposal cycle. Upwards of 100,000 cy of material can be
placed at the site in one dredging season by any combination of private and
government dredgers. The dredges would be under power and moving while
disposing. This allows the ship to maintain steerage.
The material dredged from the entrance channel consists of medium to fine
grain marine sands. The dredged material shows a wider variation in median
EIS-13
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grain size and tends to be slightly coarser than the ambient sediments at
the proposed disposal site. The differences are snail enough that the
sediments are considered compatible. The occasional gravel sized sediments
occur in such small quantities and so infrequently as to cause no problems.
Appendices B and C provide grain size information for the disposal area and
the dredged area. All sediments destined for ocean disposal is subject to
specific evaluation, including independent review by EPA. Past sediments
discharged at the interim GDMDS have been clean sands that met the exclusion
criteria (40 CFR 227.13(b)).
Feasibility of Surveillance and Monitoring. The proximity of the
interim disposal site to shore facilities creates an ideal situation for
shore-based monitoring of disposal activities to ensure that material is
actually discharged at the disposal site. There is routinely a Coast Guard
vessel patrolling the entrance and nearshore areas so surveillance can also
be accomplished by surface vessel.
Following formal designation of an OEMDS for Coquille, EPA and the Corps
will develop a site management plan which will address the need for post-
disposal monitoring. Several research groups are available in the area to
perform any required field monitoring. The work could be performed from
small surface research vessels at a reasonable cost.
Dispersal. Horizontal Transport, and Vertical Mixing Characteristics of
the Area. The near shore circulation at Coquille is influenced by the
complex bathymetry and geology. Bottom currents have been observed by video
camera and were recorded in April-May 1985. Currents were toward the north
and offshore with velocity under .5 feet/second. The area at Coquille is
exposed to normal wave action as described in appendix B. The material
dredged from the entrance channel at Coquille River is fine to medium sand.
For the range of depths and grain sizes found at either of the Coquille
COOS sites there is essentially constant mobility of bottom sediment due to
wave action. This wave-induced motion is not responsible for net transport,
but, once in motion, bottom sediments can be affected by other forces such
as gravity or directional currents. Sediments discharged at either of the
QQVDS would be expected to join the littoral movement and disperse gradually
out of the site.
Effects of Previous Disposal. Appendix B, table B-l, gives volumes of
material disposed of over the last 10 years. The 10 year range of disposal
has varied from 25,000 to 116,000 cy; on average, about 59,000 cy are
discharged annually to the ocean. Future volumes are expected to be
similar, although probably showing sane increase as other disposal options
are exhausted.
No biological information has been found to exist regarding the interim site
prior to any disposal having occurred. It is expected that no significant
impacts to the interim site have occurred beyond the yearly, site-specific
effects of disposal. Beyond the observation that abundances of sane benthic
organisms are lower inside the interim QEMDS than other locations outside
(which may be related to past disposal), there appear to be no apparent
disposal effects.
EIS-14
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No pre- or post-disposal studies on water or sediment quality have been
performed. Sediments disposed in the past are identical to sediments
collected in close proximity to the interim site (appendix B) and have met
the exclusion criteria for testing.
Interference With Other Uses of the Ocean.
Ccannercial Fishing: Two commercial fisheries occur in the inshore
area: salmon trawling and Dungeness crab fishing. The length of the salmon
fishing season varies each year depending upon the established quota;
however, it normally extends from July to September. Daring this period, the
potential exists for conflicts between the dredge and fishing boats. The
Coast Guard and ODFW indicated that this had never been a problem to their
knowledge. The Dungeness crab season extends from December 1 to August 15
each year; however, most of the crabbing occurs prior to June and usually
ends early because of the increase in soft shell crabs in the catch which
are not marketable. As a result, most crab fishing is done outside of the
normal dredging season and it is unlikely that a conflict would result.
ODFW has identified a potential squid fishery in the area. No fishery
exists at present, but stocks may be sufficient to support a fishery if a
market develops. There are no cormercial fish or shellfish aquaculture
operations that would currently be impacted by use of the existing disposal
site.
Recreational Fishing: Both private party and charterboat recreational
fishing for salmon and rock and reef fish occurs in the inshore area off
Coquille River. The sports salmon fishing season coincides with the
commercial season and extends from surmter until the quota for the area is
reached. Most of the sports fishery occurs along the south reef because of
navigational hazards on the north reef. Potential exists for recreational
fishing boats to conflict with dredging and disposal operations; however,
none has been reported to date. It is unlikely that any significant
conflict will develop in the near future (U.S. Coast Guard, personal
camiunication).
Offshore Mining Operations: No offshore mining presently occurs;
although, considerations for offshore mining and oil/gas leases are in the
development stages. The disposal site is not expected to interfere with
such proposed operations, as most exploration programs are scheduled for
the outer continental shelf.
Navigation: No conflicts with commercial navigation traffic have been
recorded in the more than 60-year history of hopper dredging activity. The
probable reason for this is the light caimercial traffic through the
Coquille navigation channel. Interviews with Coast Guard personnel also did
not produce any instances of conflicts with either corrmercial or
recreational traffic. Navigation hazards exist within the ZSF (e.g., rock
outcroppings/reefs) which have been considered in positioning the adjusted
QCMDS. Ships cannot navigate within the area south of the interim disposal
site.
ETS-15
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Scientific: There are no identified scientific study locations within
the ZSF. However, there is a permanent wave buoy several miles offshore in
70 meter water depth. This buoy is part of a Pacific Coast wave data
network operated by Scripps for the Corps of Engineers.
Coastal Zone Management: In reviewing proposed OEMDS for consistency
with the Coastal Zone Management (CZM) plan, they are evaluated against
Oregon's Statewide Goal 19 (Ocean Resources). Local jurisdiction does not
extend beyond the baseline for territorial seas and, therefore, local plans
do not address offshore sites. Goal 19 requires that agencies determine the
impact of proposed projects or actions. Paragraph 2.g of Goal 19
specifically addresses dredged material disposal. It states that agencies
Shall "provide for suitable sites and practices for the open sea discharge
of dredged material which do not substantially interfere with or detract
from the use of the continental shelf for fishing, navigation, or
recreation, or from the long-term protection of renewable resources."
Decisions to take an action, such as designating an ocean disposal site, are
to be preceded by an inventory and based on sound information and on an
understanding of the resources and potential impacts. In addition, there
should be a contingency plan and emergency procedures to be followed in the
event that the operation results in conditions which threaten to damage the
environment.
Ocean disposal sites for dredged material are designated following
guidelines prepared by the EPA (Ocean Dumping Regulations). Site selection
is to be based on studies and an evaluation of the potential impacts (40 CFR
Part 228.4(e)). This meets the requirements of State Goal 19 for decisions
to be based on inventory and a sound understanding of impacts. The five
general and eleven specific criteria for the designation of a site presented
in 40 CFR Parts 228.5 and 228.6 outline the type of studies to be conducted
and the resources to be considered. According to 40 CFR Part 228.5(a),
ocean disposal will only be allowed at sites "selected to minimize the
interference of disposal activities with other activities in the marine
environment, particularly avoiding areas of existing fisheries or
shellfisheries, and regions of heavy commercial or recreational navigation."
Monitoring is to be conducted at ocean disposal sites; and if adverse
effects are observed, use of the site may be modified or terminated. The
requirements of the ocean dumping regulations are broad enough to meet the
needs of Goal 19. Therefore, the designation of this site for ocean
disposal of dredged material following the ocean dunping regulations would
be consistent with Goal 19 and the State of Oregon's Coastal Zone Management
Plan.
Existing Water Quality and Ecology. Water quality off the mouth of the
Coquille River is considered excellent, typical of unpolluted seawater along
the Pacific Northwest coast. NO short or long term impacts on water quality
are expected to be associated with disposal operations. The ecology of the
area is presented in appendix A. The offshore area is a northwest Pacific
mobile sand corsnunity bordered by a neritic reef system. Evaluation of the
interim QEMDS in light of past disposal did not indicate any significant
adverse effects to those comnunities. Designation and use of the adjusted
EIS-16
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COVBS is not expected to have significant ecological consequences and
provides additional distance frem the reef conwunity.
Potential for Recruitment of Nuisance Species. It is highly unlikely
that any nuisance species could be transported or attracted to the disposal
site as result of dredging and disposal activities.
Existence of Significant Natural or Cultural Features. The neritic
reefs off the Oregon coast comprise a unique ecological feature. They
support a wide variety of invertebrates and fish species as well as bull
kelp consnunities. These areas are partially sheltered from wave action and
receive nutrients from both the ocean and the estuaries are usually highly
productive.
Potential areas of shipwrecks are shown in appendix D. Given the
characteristics of the Coquille Bar, onshore current patterns, and hard sand
bottan, and the fact that the ship channel over the bar has been actively
maintained by dredging and removal of wrecks from the 1860's to present, it
is unlikely that any wrecks have survived in the vicinity of the disposal
site. Based on this information, it is unlikely that any significant
cultural resources will be affected by the continued use of the disposal
site. Appendix E with supplementary side scan sonar data was reviewed by
the State Historic Preservation Office (SHFO). SHFO concurred with the
Corps' findings of no cultural resources concerns. The SHFO letter of
concurrence is included in appendix F.
Selection of Preferred Alternative. Based upon the information contained in
this EIS, designation of an OEMDS off the Coquille River, Oregon, is
considered necessary. After applying the five general and eleven specific
criteria to the available options, designation of the adjusted GCMDS was
selected as the preferred alternative. Continued use of the interim OEMDS
would not be expected to cause unacceptably adverse environmental effects.
The interim disposal site encompasses large areas of exposed rock and
scattered rock outcrops as well as areas covered by fine sand. The extent
of rock exposures and proximity to reef shoals presents both a hazard to the
hopper dredges and potential for seme adverse environmental impacts. The
adjusted site does not have these concerns and is therefore considered the
better site.
EIS-17
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IV. AFFECTED EWIFOStMEWT
General. A brief sunrnary of existing conditions within the ZSF or
specifically at the interim or COOS is presented below and is the basis for
evaluating the suitability of the sites for ocean disposal. More detailed
information on the affected environment is presented in the appendices which
were reproduced from the Corps' Site Evaluation Report. Information
regarding the nature and frequency of the sediments dredged frcm the
Coquille navigation channel entrance is also provided.
Physical Envircranent.
General. The topography of the seafloor offshore in the ZSF is varied
and complex. To the north of the Coquilie's mouth the bed slopes evenly at
1.1/1000 frcm a depth of 24 to 84 feet. South of the mouth a line of
islets, skerries and submerged rock pinnacles runs in a southeast-northwest
direction. Below 84 feet, there is a rocky reef with an irregular surface
featuring both hollows and high points. No evidence of mounding frcm
previously disposed dredged material was found in a July, 1985 survey
(appendix B).
The interim COOS encompasses large areas of exposed rock and scattered rock
outcrops, as well as areas covered by fine sand. Depths vary between 42 and
84 feet. Because of the extent of rock exposures which constitute a
navigation hazard for the hopper dredges, it was concluded that a different
location for the disposal site should be found. A potential site (the
adjusted OEMDS) was identified and defined that lies 1,500 feet north-
northwest of the interim site. The sediment at the adjusted COVDS is
primarily fine sand with small amounts of medium and coarse sand, and
includes minor quantities of fines. Depths at the proposed site also range
between 42 and 84 feet.
The sediments dredged from the entrance of Coquille are fine marine sands
identical to existing nearshore sediments. Under winter wave conditions
cannon to this part of the Pacific Coast, these fine sands are highly mobile
to a depth of 90-120 feet. Summer wave conditions commonly mobilize sands
to a depth of 40-60 feet. While waves are responsible for resuspending
bottom sediment, including dredged material, it is the long-term mean
current that determines the extent and direction of dispersal. The dredged
material from the Coquille entrance channel shows a wider variation in
median grain size and tends to be slightly coarser than the ambient
sediments at either the interim or adjusted COOS. The differences are
small enough that the sediments are considered compatible. Occasional
gravel-sized sediments occur in small quantities and so infrequently as to
cause no problems at the disposal sites.
Despite the slight difference in size between offshore sediments and dredged
material, samples taken inside the interim disposal site are
indistinguishable frcsn those taken outside the site. The most recent
EIS-19
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bathymetric surveys by the Corps have shown no mounding in the interim
CMOS. Disposal activities have had no noticeable impact on either the
bottom sediment or bathymetry. Littoral transport mechanisms have the
ability and capacity to move all of the material.
Geology. There are zones of heavy mineral concentrations in black sand
deposits offshore of the mouth of the Coquille River, but they are located
several miles to the northwest of the disposal area. A deposit of gravel
that also contains concentrations of gold lies several miles southwest of
the disposal area. While these deposits have commercial potential, they all
lie outside the ZSF. Oil and gas exploration is concentrated on the outer
shelf. Thus far, only traces of oil and gas have been found in wells
drilled off the Oregon coast.
Circulation and Currents. The near shore mean circulation is
alongshore, closely paralleling the bathymetric contours, with a lesser
onshore-offshore component. Circulation patterns are variable with season
and weather conditions. In winter the general shelf circulation is to the
north although short periods of southerly flow occur. Coos Bay studies
suggest that offshore flow along the Oregon Coast is more common in the
winter. This would indicate a tendency for sediment in the ZSF to move
north and west under winter circulation conditions. During the remainder of
the year, flow is southerly with lower current velocities than in winter.
Periodic changes in sunnier wind direction cause episodes of upwelling in
which offshore near-shore water transport causes a compensating near-bottom
onshore flow. These upwelling events continue for several days at a time,
and occur between April and July. Near-bottom flow during summer should be
generally southerly with onshore/offshore flow varying due to local wind
conditions. Sediment movement would vary with these circulation patterns.
Water and Sediment Quality. Water quality throughout the ZSF is
expected to be typical for seawater of the Pacific Northwest. There is no
reason to expect significant chemical contamination in either the water or
sediments as few heavy industries are located along the estuary. There is
commercial fishing, fish processing, and three lumber mills—including the
Moore Mill at EM 1.3. These mills have been operating intermittently during
the last several years and they do not seem to have increased the organic
load, as measured by the volatile solids (appendix C). No specific sediment
or water quality analyses at Coquille have been done. Limited analyses have
been performed at other estuarine locations in Oregon which generally show
very low levels of contaminants of concern (USGS 1983 and Felstul 1988).
Biological Environment.
General. Aquatic resources of the ZSF are described in detail in
appendix A. Both COOS sites are located in the near shore area and the
overlying waters contain many nearshore pelagic organisms. The interim site
is also adjacent to the neritic reefs which are described in detail in
appendix A. These reefs are unusual features along the coast and support a
variety of aquatic organisms. Bull kelp and its associated fish and
invertebrate coirmunity are also associated with the neritic reefs.
EIS-20
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Bent-hie. Based an the. analysis of benthic sanples collected at and to
the north and south of the Coquille interim OEMDS, the benthic faunal
communities throughout most Of the ZSF are characteristic of nearshore,
sandy, wave-influenced regions common along the Pacific Northwest coast.
The adjusted OEMDS, between 40 and 70 feet deep, had a high abundance of
polychaete worms and gamnarid amphipods. Lower abundances of these groups
were present at the interim site. Ihe invertebrates inhabiting the sandy
portions of the ZSF are the more motile, sand-dwelling forms which tolerate
or require high sediment flux. They are typical of other shallow water
disposal sites such as Coos Bay sites E and F {Hancock et al. 1981). The
rocky areas (skerries, islets, pinnacles, etc.) within the ZSF have a very
different species composition and greater diversity. Hie infaunal cannunity
consists of over 131 species, marry of which are encrusting forms or those
generally associated with coarse shell, rocks and larger grained sediments.
The dominant commercially and recreationally important macroinvertebrate
species in the inshore coastal area are shellfish, Dungeness crabs and
squid. The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (CDFW) has begun studying
squid resources, and a spawning area offshore from the disposal site has
recently been identified.
Fishes. The nearshore area off the Coquille River supports a variety
of pelagic and demersal fish species. Pelagic species include anadronous
salmon, steelhead, cutthroat trout, striped bass and shad that migrate
through the spawning areas. Other pelagic species include the Pacific
herring, anchovy, surf smelt, and sea perch. Surf smelt in particular occur
in nearshore areas in the estuary in large numbers during the sunnier.
77. Although migratory species are present throughout the year, individual
species are only present during certain times of the year.
Dartersal species present in the inshore area include a number of flatfish,
which occur primarily over the sandflats. English sole, sanddab, and starry
flounder spawn in the inshore coastal area in the sumier and juveniles of
these as well as other marine species rear in the estuary.
Pelagic species that are associated with the neritic reefs to the west and
south of the estuary and jetties include both resident and non-resident
species. The shallower reefs are dominated by black rockfish while the
deeper reefs are dominated by lingcod, yellow rockfish and black rockfish.
Wildlife. Numerous species of birds and marine maninals occur in the
pelagic, nearshore, and shoreline habitats throughout the ZSF. Principle
species found offshore are Leach's storm petrel, Brandt's cormorant, pelagic
cormorant, western gull, glaucous-winged gull, carmen murre, and harbor
seal. Either disposal site would caiprise a portion of the foraging area
for these species. Nesting by pelagic and Brandt's cormorants, ccaimon
murres, and glaucous-winged and western gulls occurs on nearby offshore
rocks. The presence of nearby foraging sites is an important parameter in
the nesting success of these species. Harbor seals also haul out and pup on
these offshore rocks.
EIS-21
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Endangered Species. Portland District requested an endangered species
listing for the site from U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and
National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS). The brown pelican and the gray
whale were the only species listed. Based on previous biological
assessments conducted along the Oregon coast regarding impacts to the brown
pelican aiid the gray whale, no impact to the species was anticipated from
continued dredging and ocean disposal operations. Letters of concurrence
are included in appendix F, Corments and Coordination.
Socio-BcoffKniic Environment.
General. The Coquille River enters the Pacific Ocean at the city of
Bandon in Coos County, Oregon and navigation on the river is critical to the
local economy. The city of Bandon has a population of 2,270 with an
additional 2,000 people within the city's market area. Coos County has a
population of 61,000 (USCE, March, 1987). The area has been suffering from
a chronically depressed economy in recent years.
Natural Resource Harvesting (Commercial). Forest products in the form
of standard and specialty cuts of lumber have traditionally been the largest
component of the local economy. Commercial fishing is the second largest
industry in Coos County. Both of these sectors rely to sane extent on the
Coquille River navigation channel.
Large offshore deposits of black sands have been identified a few miles to
the northwest of the Coquille River mouth, but none within the ZSF. This
deposit was found to have a black sand concentration of between 10 to 30
percent. Minerals of primary interest in black sands are gold, platinum,
and chranite, but the sands also contain numerous other heavy minerals. The
offshore deposits found near the Coquille River are not currently being
mined, but sites are being considered for exploration.
A large gravel deposit is located to the southwest of the ZSF. Included
within the deposit is a gold anomaly zone with a concentration of over 0.005
parts per million (ppn) gold. The gravels are being considered as a
potential future source of aggregate for urban areas in California. The
gold could conceivably add to the attractiveness of the deposits by
compensating for seme of the dredging costs. While there have been several
attempt to find oil and gas along the Oregon coast, no test well has
produced more than traces of oil and gas. The offshore well nearest to the
mouth of the Coquille River was about 12 miles to the northwest, at which
nothing more than traces of gas was found. Wells just a few miles inland
from the mouth were no more productive.
Recreation. Sport fishing and recreational boating occur and the
Bandon coarmunity has made a concerted effort to develop a stronger tourist
trade in an attempt to diversify the local economy. The area around the
mouth of the Coquille River receives recreational use year-round with the
most popular months being from May through September. Primary activities
include fishing, camping, beachcombing, sightseeing and picnicking.
Bui lards Beach State Park extends north along the coast for several miles
EIS-22
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from the north jetty. Another state park, the Bandon Ocean Wayside, is
located along the coast approximately one mile south of the city of Bandon.
The Coquille River jetties are popular for fishing. Fishing pressure is
heaviest from June through August when surf conditions are less threatening
and unpredictable than in winter. The offshore fishery is primarily
rockfish and salmon. The most popular and productive area is offshore of
Coquille Point to the south of the river. Also see appendix D.
Cultural Resources. Research and analyses of the relevant historical
records and the preservation context (suitability of the existing
environmental conditions for preserving cultural resources) indicate that
the most likely cultural resources within the project area are shipwrecks.
Wrecks in the study area tend to occur in surf zones or on beaches. They
are not likely to be found in the proposed disposal site. It is also highly
unlikely that any evidence of prehistoric sites would be present in the
offshore sites, based upon the environmental conditions found in the area.
Additional information is provided in appendix E.
EIS-23
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V. ENVIFOSIMENIAL CCNSE3QUEHCES
Gmeral. The proposed action is the designation of a site to be available
for ocean disposal of dredged material. Designation of the site itself is
an administrative action that would not have any direct environmental
effects; however, it would subject the site to use as an ocean disposal
area. Although no significant impacts are predicted by this designation
action, EPA. has voluntarily ccnmitted to preparing and circulating EISs as
part of the designation process. This EES addresses the likely effects of
disposal at either the interim or the adjusted COVDS based upon the Corps'
current O&M dredging program for the Coquille River navigation project. A
separate evaluation of the suitability of dredged material and disposal
impacts will be conducted for each proposed disposal action by the Corps as
required under Section 103 of the MPRSA. EPA. independently reviews all
proposed ocean disposal of dredged material.
Physical Effects. Disposal of dredged material from the Coquille River
entrance channel at either the interim or adjusted ODMDS would not have a
significant effect on the physical environment. The material consists of
clean sand which is slightly coarser than that present at the disposal sites
but is still compatible for disposal on the sandy bottom. At the interim
DEMOS, seme rocky bottom habitat might be buried by disposal of sand on it.
The dredged material would disperse from the site in the littoral drift
system with movement expected to be to the north and offshore during the
winter and lesser movement to the south in sunnier. No mounding is expected
to occur. The physical placement of dredged material would be expected to
have short-term effects on the rocky habitats. These effects would be more
severe than those that would occur if the material was placed on sandy
areas; however, they are not judged to be significant.
The material dredged from the river entrance channel consists of clean sand.
It is not expected to contain significant levels of contaminants of concern
and would meet the exclusion criteria in 40 CFR 227.13(b). Disposal of this
material would not introduce contaminants to the sediments at the disposal
site or degrade water quality. Short term turbidity effects are
anticipated. A separate evaluation of the suitability of dredged material
and disposal impacts will be conducted for each proposed disposal action by
the Corps as required under Section 103 of the MPRSA. EPA will
independently review all proposed ocean disposal of dredged material.
No mineral resources are expected to be affected by disposal at either
CMOS.
Biological Effects. The interim and adjusted COVIDS are located in the
near shore area, and contain an abundance of aquatic life characteristic of
nearshore, sandy, wave-influenced regions cannon along the coasts of the
Pacific Northwest. These include zooplankton such as copepods, euphausiids,
and meroplankton (fish, crab, and other invertebrate larvae). These
organisms generally display seasonal changes in abundance and are present
EIS-25
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over most of the coast. Based on evidence from various zooplankton and
larval fish studies, it appears that there will not be any impacts to
organisms in the water column (Sullivan and Hancock, 1977). Impacts to the
biological environment would be primarily to the benthic community. Some
mortality would occur as a result of smothering. Most of the benthic
species present are motile and adapted to a high energy environment with
shifting sands. Therefore, many would likely survive the effects of
disposal. In addition, some recoIonization would occur from surrounding
areas since the sediments would be compatible. The rate of recolonization
would be affected by disposal frequency- Inpacts could be greater in the
rocky portion of the interim site where more species are found and many of
them are sessile or encrusting forms which are more susceptible to
smothering. Although significant adverse inpacts are not predicted for use
of either the interim or adjusted ODMDS, use of the adjusted ODMDS would
result in less environmental impact.
Larger, more motile organisms such as fish, birds and marine mammal species
would likely avoid the disposal activity or move out once it is begun. They
would likely be exposed to short term turbidity. Therefore, inpacts are
expected to be limited to disturbance rather than injury or mortality.
The brown pelican and the gray whale are the only endangered species
indicated by the USFWS and NMFS as likely to occur in the project area.
Based on previous biological assessments regarding inpacts to these species
along the Oregon coast, no impact to either species is anticipated from the
designation or use of the ocean disposal sites.
Sccio-Bcxmcndc Effects. The designation of an ocean disposal site for
dredged material off the mouth of the Coquille River would allow the
continued maintenance and possible improvement of the navigation channel.
This would result in waterborne carmerce remaining an important component of
the local economy. If a site is not designated, maintenance dredging may
ultimately cease for lack of adequate disposal sites or other, potentially
more environmentally sensitive habitats (e.g., wetlands), would be used. If
maintenance dredging of the channel ceases, the channel would shoal in and
become unsafe or unusable. Shipping and fishing traffic would have to be
directed through other ports and the local economy would suffer.
No known mineral or economic resources would be impacted by disposal at the
interim or adjusted ODMDS.
The interim and adjusted ODMDS are located outside of any major recreational
use areas. As a result, few impacts to recreation are expected to occur.
Time delays for recreational boaters caused by the passing of the dredge or
an increase in navigation hazards during congested periods could occur.
Conflicts such as these can be considered an inconvenience rather than a
threat to recreational activity. Collisions between recreational boaters
and dredge traffic are unlikely due to the slow speed at which the dredge
moves.
There would be a short-term reduction in aesthetics at either disposal site
as a result of turbidity following disposal. The material would settle
EIS-26
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rapidly and not affect any areas outside of the disposal area. No impacts
would occur on the beach or adjacent recreation areas. Recreational
considerations are fully discussed in appendix D.
It is unlikely that any cultural resources are present in either OEMDS.
Designation or use is not expected to have any impact on cultural resources.
Coastal Zone Management. The Coquille Estuary Management Plan and Coos
County Comprehensive Plan have been approved and acknowledged by the State
of Oregon. Both of these plans contain discussions of ocean disposal and
recognize the need to provide for suitable offshore sites for disposal of
dredged materials. No significant effects on ocean, estuarine, or shore land
resources are anticipated, as goal 19 of Oregon's Statewide Planning Goals
and Guidelines require.
The proposed action was determined by the Corps to be consistent with the
acknowledged local comprehensive plans and the State of Oregon Coastal
Management Program. The State of Oregon reviewed the Corps' consistency
determination in the Site Evaluation Report. Their letter is located in
appendix F, Garments and Coordination.
Unavoidable Adverse Impacts. Designation of an OEMDS would allow continued
dredging and disposal of dredged material frcm the Coquille River entrance
channel with attendant effects.
Relationship Between Short-Term Uses of the Environment and Maintenance and
Enhancemsit of Long-Term Productivity. Disposal of dredged material at the
adjusted OEMDS would have a unquantifiable, but apparently minor short- and
long-term effect of the productivity of the ocean environment. Use of the
OEMDS would have a long-term beneficial effect on the economy of the city of
Bandon and Coos County.
Irreversible and Irretrievable CCDmitments of Resources. Permanent
designation of the adjusted OEMDS for disposal would conmit the site and its
resources primarily to that use. Other uses such as oil and gas
explorations, and to varying degrees, mining, fishing, and use by certain
aquatic species, would be constrained or precluded.
EIS-27
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VI. COORDINATION
Coordination By the Corps of Engineers. Procedures used in the evaluation
and the proposed adjustment of the COOS site were discussed with the
following State and Federal agencies by the Portland District, Corps of
Engineers, to support their site designation studies and preparation of
their Site Evaluation Report:
- U.S. Coast Guard
- U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
- U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
- U.S. National Marine Fisheries Service
- Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife
- Oregon Department of Environmental Quality
- Oregon Division of State Lands
These agencies were briefed on the proposed technique frcm the task force
workbook and existing information was requested of then, copies of the
draft Site Evaluation Report were provided to than by the Corps and their
conments on the draft were formally requested. Letters received are
included in appendix F.
Agency statements of concurrence or consistency are required for three
Federal laws. The statutes and responsible agencies are:
Endangered Species Act of 1973, as amended — U.S. Fish & Wildlife
Service, National Marine Fisheries Service
National Historical Preservation Act of 1966, as amended — Oregon
State Historic Preservation Officer
Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, as amended — Oregon
Department of Land Conservation and Development
Consistency or preliminary concurrence letters frcm the above agencies
received as result of the Corps' report coordination are included in
appendix F. State water quality certifications, as required by Section 401
of the Clean Water Act, will be obtained for individual dredging actions as
part of the normal permitting or Federal project approval process.
Coordinatim By ERV. Coordination with the Portland District was maintained
throughout the site designation studies and during preparation of their Site
Evaluation Report. A copy of that report was reviewed by EPA. EPA has
voluntarily conrutted to prepare and circulate EISs for site designation
actions. A Notice of Intent to Prepare an Environmental Impact Statement on
the final designation of an adjusted COOS site off Coquille River, Oregon,
was published in the Federal Register on Friday, January 8, 1988. The Site
Evaluation Report submitted to Region 10, EPA, by the Corps was used as the
basis for preparation of this draft EIS. A formal 45-day public review
EIS-29
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period will allow corrments to be received from all State and local agencies,
and private groups and individuals on this proposed designation by EPA. A
list of those who received the draft EIS for ceximent may be requested. Many
of the same agencies that reviewed the Corps' Site Evaluation Report will
receive this draft EIS.
As a separate but concurrent action, EPA will publish a proposed rule in the
Federal Register for formal designation of the adjusted Coquille CJCMDS.
There is a 45-day public review period for the draft rule also. It is
planned that the public review periods for the draft EIS and proposed rule
overlap. However, comments will be accepted on either the draft EIS or
proposed rule until the end of the latest 45-day period. Conments will be
responded to in the final EIS and rule.
EIS-30
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VII. LIST CF FKEE&REES
Disposal site studies were designed and conducted by the Corps, in
consultation with EPA, and a Site Evaluation Report was prepared by the
Portland District, Corps of Engineers. That document was submitted to EPA
for review and processing for formal designation by the Regional
Administrator, Region 10. The Corps' Site Evaluation Report was used by EPA
as the basis of this draft EIS. The technical appendices from the Site
Evaluation Report are reproduced as appendices to the EIS.
Preparation of draft EIS:
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency:
John Malek Ocean Dumping Coordinator and Project Officer
Linda storm Environmental Protection Specialist
Preparation of Site Evaluation Report and Technical Appendices:
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Portland District:
Michael F. Kidby P.E. Civil Engineer
A. Rudder Turner, Jr. Oceanographer
David R. Felstul Environmental Specialist
Danil R. Hancock Oceanographer (IPA: Oregon state U.)
Stephan A. Chesser Geological Oceanographer
Kim Larson Fishery Biologist
Geoff Dorsey Wildlife Biologist
William B. Fletcher Hydrologist
Ted 0. Fischer Civil Engineering Tech
The following contractors prepared reports or provided input to the Site
Evaluation Report:
1. Earth Sciences Associates (sidescan sonar / subbottom profiling)
2. Geo Recon International (sidescan sonar / subbottom profiling)
3. Howard Jones, Marine Taxonomic Consultants (benthic macrofauna analysis)
4. Dr. Charles Sollitt, Dept of Civil Engineering, Oregon State U.
(physical oceanography—current meter work)
5. North Pacific Division Materials Lab [A.C.E. ] (sediment analysis)
EIS-31
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VIII. GEJSERAL BIBLIOGRAPHY
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Huyer, A., 1971. A study of the relationship between local winds and
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APPENDIX A
LIVING RESOURCES
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APPENDIX A
LIVING RESOURCES
TABLE OF CCNTENTS
Paragraph. No. Page No.
1.01 Introduction A-l
1.02 Plankton and Fish Larvae A-l
1.11 Benthic Invertebrates A-3
1.26 Macro invertebrates A-8
1.30 Fisheries A-8
1.35 Corcnercial and Recreational Fisheries A-10
1.39 Wildlife A-14
LIST OF TABLES
A-l Dominant Copepod Species by Season in
Decreasing Order of Abundance. A-2
A-2 Dominant Fish Larval Species During the
Two Peaks of Abundance A-3
LIST OF FIGURES
A-l Sampling Sites A-4
A-2 Density of Benthic Infauna A-6
A-3 Diversity, Species Richness and Equitability
of Benthic Infauna A-7
A-4 Distribution of Macroinvertebrates A-9
A-5 Distribution of Demersal Fish Species A-ll
A-6 Carrmercial Fishing Areas A-12
A-7 Recreational Fishing Areas A-13
A-8 Wildlife Areas A-15
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APPENDIX A
LIVING RESOURCES
Introduction
1.01 Information on aquatic resources was obtained fran a field sampling
program conducted in May 1984. There was also a thorough utilization of a
variety of published and unpublished reports, theses, and personal
cormiunications with the ODFW Marine Resources Division biologists. Critical
resources were determined primarily by whether the resource was unique to
the area or was in limited abundance along the Oregon coast.
Plankton and Fish Larvae
1.02 Distribution and abundance of inshore plankton species vary depending
upon near shore oceanographic conditions. In the summer when the wind is
predominantly from the northwest, surface water is moving south and away
from the shore. Colder, more saline, nutrient-rich water then moves up from
the depths onto the shore. This upwelling phenomenon can extend up to 10 km
offshore and last from days to weeks depending upon the strength and
duration of the wind. Zooplankton taxa during this time are predominant ly
those from subarctic water masses.
1.03 In the winter the wind is primarily out of the west and southwest, and
surface waters are transported inshore. The zooplankton carmunity during
this time of the year consists of species frcrci the transitional or Central
Pacific water masses.
1.04 No specific data is available for the area offshore from the Coquilie
River. However, Peterson and Miller (1976), and Peterson et al. (1979),
have sampled the zooplankton coKtnunity off Yaquina River and found copetxxis
to be the dominant taxa. The species present varied with season. Of the 58
total species collected, 38 were collected in the summer and 51 in the
winter. Eight occurred commonly in both sunnier and winter while seven
occurred only or predominantly in the summer and six in the winter. A list
of dominant surrmer and winter species is given below (table A-l). In
general, winter species are less abundant than sunnier species.
1.05 Other taxa collected were of minor importance as coppered with the
copepod abundance except for a few organisms during parts of the year. (A
list of the other taxa collected is given in tables A-2 and A-3).
1.06 The other plankton species of importance is the megalops larval stage
of the Dungeness crab (Cancer magister). Lough (1976) has reported that
megalops occur inshore from January to May and are apparently retained there
by the strong longshore and onshore components of the surface currents in
the winter. After May, the megalops metamorphose into juvenile crabs and
settle out of the plankton, moving into rearing areas in the estuary.
A-l
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Table A-l
Dominant Copepod Species by Season
in Decreasing Order of Abundance
Winter Species
Sumner Species
Pseudocalanus sp.
Oithona similis
Pseudocalanus sp.
Acartia clausii
Paracalanus parvus
Acartia longiremis
Acartia longiremis
Calanus marshal lae
Centrophages abdominalis
Oithona similis
1.07 Fish larvae are a transient member of the inshore coastal plankton
community. Their abundance and distribution have been described by
Richardson (1973), Richardson and Pearcy (1977), and Richardson et al.
(1980).
1.08 Three species asseriblages have been described off the Oregon coast:
coastal, transitional, and offshore. In general, the species in the coastal
and offshore assemblages never overlap while the transitional species
overlapped both groups. The break between the coastal and transitional
groups occurs at the continental slope.
1.09 The coastal group is dominated by smelt (Osmeridae) which made up over
50 percent of the larvae collected. Other dominant species include the
English sole (Parophrys vetulus), sanfldab (Isopsetta isolepis), starry
flounder (Platichthys stellatus), and tan cod (Microgadus proximus).
Maximum abundance occurs from February to July when greater than 90 percent
of the larvae were collected. Two peaks of abundance are present during
this period; ones in February and March (24 percent of larvae) and one in May
to July (68 percent of larvae) following upwelling. Dominant species
during each peak are shown below (table A-2).
1.10 The results of the studies off Yaquina Bay indicate that the larval
species present in the inshore coastal areas were similar and had the same
peaks of abundance as those collected in Yaquina River; however, the
dominant species differed. In Yaquina Bay, two species accounted for 90
percent of the species collected, the bay goby (Lepidogobius lepidus) and
the Pacific herring (Clupea harengus pallasi). Neither were present in the
inshore coastal area. Starry flounder spawn in the area to the north of the
estuary and the juveniles use the estuary as juvenile rearing areas.
English sole probably use the estuary as a rearing area. Because
oceanographic conditions are similiar over much of the Central Oregon coast,
it is likely that zooplankton and larval population dynamics are similar
between Coquille and Yaquina ocean disposal areas.
A-2
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Table A-2
Dominant Fish Larval Species During the Two Peaks of Abundance
Species
February to
March
May to
July
Smelt (Osmeridae)
1.51*
4.09
1.76
1.73
4.12
English sole (Parophrys vetulus)
Sandlance (Airsnodytes hexapterus)
Sanddab(Isopsetta isolepis)
2.21
2.03
1.07
Tom cod (Microgadus proxirrajs)
Slender sole (Lyopsetta exilis)
* Biological index—Ranking method that averages abundance and frequency of
occurrence in samples. 5 to 1 in decreasing order.
Benthic Invertebrates
1.11 Benthic invertebrates play an important role in secondary
productivity in near shore marine systems. They are not only a direct source
of food for many demersal fishes but play an active part in the shredding
and breakdown of organic material and in sediment reworking.
1.12 Knowledge of the nearshore benthic communities off the central Oregon
coast is scant. A literature review conducted by Portland District
indicated that only six quantitative benthic studies have been conducted in
nearshore coastal waters off Oregon.
1.13 Investigations include evaluating offshore disposal sites near the
mouth of the Columbia River by Richardson et al. (1977), a quantitative
study of the meiobenthos north of Yaquina River (Hogue 1981} and an outfall
study for the International Paper Company's outfall near Gardiner, Oregon
(Unpublished, n.d.). In addition, site specific studies of ocean disposal
for the selection of the Coos Bay (Hancock et al. 1981, Nelson et al. 1983
and Sollitt et al. , 1984) and Yaquina Bay GEMDS have been completed (USAGE
1985 and 1986). These studies comprise the total benthic infaunal data
base available for the Oregon coast. A11 but one of these benthic studies
were sponsored by Portland District.
1.14 To provide site-specific benthic information to supplement these data
and characterize the Coquille interim disposal site, Portland District
collected and analyzed benthic samples as described below.
1.15 Stations were located on the 40-, 50-, 60-, 70- and 80-foot depth
contours along the centerline of the interim disposal site and also along
transects north and south of the disposal site as shown in figure A-l. Six
replicate bottom sanples were taken from 12 of the 15 stations using a
modified Gray-O'Hara box corer which sampled a .096m area of the bottom.
Submerged rock outcrops prevented sampling at stations Q-3-4 and Q-3-5.
A - 3
-------
Ocean Dredged Material
Disposal Site and ZSF.
North Transect
Disposal Site / sand
dunes
OI61 1 o.i 81
Transect
NORTH
JETTY
South Transect
-^¦Coqu///e
0.181 10.201
SOUTH
JETTY
Bandon
rocks
• Coquille
Pt.
rocks
YARDS
LEGEND s , , a ¦¦¦¦¦¦>
, * rocks
10-161 MEAN GRAIN SIZE IN mm.(JULY85) *
DISPOSAL SITE
Fw?vl MLW
• INFAUNA a SEDIMENT SAMPLING STATIONS
Figure A-l.
Sampling Sites
A - 4
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One sample from each station was sent to the CoE North Pacific Division
Materials Testing Laboratory for determination of sediment grain size and
organic content. The regaining five box-core samples were sieved through a
0.5irm mesh screen. Organisms retained on the screen were preserved in 10
percent buffered formalin. Infaunal organisms were then picked from the
sediment, counted, and identified to the lowest practical taxon.
1.16 Results. Sediments from the stations in the region of the Coquille
River Interim OEMDS consist of a mixture of shells and typical coastal sands
(table B-2). All stations on the north transect consisted of fine sand with
a slightly coarser sand found at stations Q-l-4 and Q-l-5. Hie two
shallowest stations on the north transect contained bay clamshell fragments,
indicating they had received dredged material from previous disposal
activities.
1.17 Stations in the shallower portion of the interim disposal site
contained fine sand while the deeper stations (70 and 80 foot depths)
contained much coarser material. Submerged rocks were encountered at the 70
and 80-foot contours of the south transect.
1.18 The benthos of the Coquille offshore disposal site was typical of
nearshore high energy environments. The infaunal caimunity of the north
sect between 40 and 70-foot depths was dominated by polychaete worms and
gamnarid anphipods. Extremely high abundances of Spiophanes bombyx occurred
at stations Q-l-1 to Q-l-4 along with gamnarid amphipods primarily belonging
to the genera Eohaustorius, Mandibulophoxus and Rhephoxynius. Lower
abundances of these species were present at stations in the interim
disposal site. The species of invertebrates inhabiting the sandy portions
of the study area are the more motile psamnnitic (sand-dwelling) forms which
tolerate or require high sediment flux. They are typical of other shallow
water disposal sites such as Coos bay sites E and F (Hancock et al.).
1.19 The deeper stations Q-l-5 and Q-2-5 have a very different species
composition and much less dominance by a single species due to the coarser
material and patchy rocks. The infaunal composition was a rich fauna with
over 131 species represented. Many of the species (eg. Polynoidae,
Sabellidae) represented encrusting forms generally associated with coarse
shell, rocks, and larger grained sediments.
1.20 Mean densities (#/m) along the northern transect increase with
increasing water depth ranging from 1368 to 4175 organisms/m between the
40-foot depth contour to 4175 at the 60-foot depth contour with the 70 and
80-foot contour having intermediate values (1950 and 2277 respectively) as
shown in figure A-2.
1.21 Diversity (H'), Species Richness and Bquitability (J') of benthic
infauna for the Coquille Interim site are shown in figure A-3.
1.22 Mean density of benthic infauna in the disposal area shows an inverse
relationship with water depth. Density values range from a maximum of 99/m
at 40-feet declining to 20 at 60-feet and increase slightly thereafter.
A - 5
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DENSITY OF BENTHIC IN FAUN A
COQUILLE OFFSHORE DISPOSAL SITE
5000 ^
4000
3000
2000
TRANSECT
S3 NORTH TRANSECT
i DISPOSAL SITE
Q SOUTH TRANSECT
80
STATIONS BY DEPTH (FT.)
Figure A-2
Density of Benthic Infauna
A - 6
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DIVERSITY,SPECIES RICHNESS AND EQUITABILITY
OF BENTHIC INFAUNA AT THE COQUILLE
OFFSHORE DISPOSAL SITE
DIVERSITY H'
SPECIES RICHNESS
EQUITABILITY
i t, m
J J J/,J J J/ J J J / J j ^ I / T J l
t? *° f° >? *? <$> «P
¦ V <=' *' *' d V *' <*' *' V o' *' V
STATIONS BY DEPTH (FT)
Figure A-3
Diversity, Species Richness and Equitability of Benthic Infauna
A - 7
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1.23 Only three stations of the southern transect could be sampled because
hard substrate prevented adequate penetration of the box corer. The
stations in 60- and 80-foot water depth along the southern transect had mean
densities of 796, 486 and 201/m, respectively.
1.24 The Coquille offshore disposal site received 21,387 cy of dredged
sediments in 1984 and 14,020 cy in 1985 from hopper dredges. The data on
the abundances and diversity of benthic infauna, however, indicate no
diminished values at the disposal site for the reason suggested in paragraph
1.16.
1.25 Although the interim disposal site off Coquille River has frequently
received dredged sediments, the adjacent fauna show little evidence of
impacts.
Macroinvertebrates
1.26 The dominant ccarmercially and recreationally important
macroinvertebrate species in the inshore coastal area are shellfish,
Dungeness crab and squid. Shellfish distribution is shown in figure A-4.
1.27 Razor clam beds are located north and south of the jetty along the
beach. It is generally thought that recruitment of razor clams to
theinshore beaches canes from the subtidal spawning areas. Limited stocks
of abalone occur in the rocky areas associated with kelp beds north and
south of the estuary (figure A-4). Existing stocks are thought to be
remnants of an QDFW program to introduce abalone to central Oregon. The
stocks are no longer considered viable due to inhibited natural spawning
resulting from the colder water temperatures.
1.28 Gaper clams, cockles, and Pittock clams likely occur near the mouth
and upriver in the estuary proper. Dungeness crab adults occur on sandflat
habitat along the entire Oregon coast. They spawn in offshore areas and the
juveniles rear in the estuary.
1.29 The Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife (ODFW) has recently
identified a major squid spawning area off the Coquille estuary (figure A-
4). Squid spawning areas change yearly depending upon near shore oceanic
conditiions and therefore the site many not be used each year.
Fisheries
1.30 The near shore area off Coquille River supports a variety of pelagic
and demersal fish species. Pelagic species include anadromous salmon,
steelhead, cutthroat trout, striped bass and shad that migrate through the
estuaries to upriver spawning areas (QDFW, 1979). Other pelagic species
include the Pacific herring, anchovy, surf smelt, and sea perch. Surf smelt
in particular in near shore areas and in the estuary in large numbers during
the surrmer (ODFW, 1979).
1.31 Though migratory species are present year-round, individual species
are only present during certain times of the year. Table A-2 lists the
species of fish and their periods of Occurrence off the Coquille River.
A - 8
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WASHING TON
OREGON
i r^—COOU/LLE
RiVER
SQUID
CALIFORNIA
/ SAND
' DUNES .
„ji- ^TnlxttP
It
CCAMS
& 0
SOFT SHELL
CLAMS 1 II
BANDON
te>
CoqufltePt
ABALONE
SCALE in YARDS
0 IOOO
> I I I I I I I I I
SHELLFISH
RESOURCES
Figure A-4
Distribution of Macroinvertebrates
A - 9
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1.32 Demersal species present in the inshore area are mostly residents and
include a number of flatfish, sculpins, sea perch and rocky reef fish that
are associated with the neritic reefs to the east and south of the estuary
and the jetties. The flatfish species occur predominantly over open
sandflats. Species present include English sole, sanddab, and starry
flounder. English sole, sandsole and starry flounder spawn in the inshore
coastal area in the sunnier (figure A-5) and juveniles of these as well as
other marine species rear in the estuary.
1.33 The rocky reef areas off Coquille are a coirmon feature of the
southern Oregon coast. Off Coquille, they are associated with bull kelp
(Macrocystis pyrifera) beds. These beds provide important invertebrate and
fish habitat nd increase the overall productivity of the reef. A 1954
survey indicated approximately 54 acres of kelp beds off Coquille River.
1.34 The rocky reef fish community differs depending on the depth the reef
lies below the water surface. The shallower reefs (<20-meter depth) are
dominated by the black rockfish (Sebastes melanops) while the deeper reefs
(20-50 meters) are dominated by lingcod (Ophiodon elongatus), yellow
rockfish (Sebastes ruberrimos) and black rockfish. Fish are generally
larger on the deeper reefs than the shallower reefs presumably due to a
generalized movement offshore of individuals as they mature. Species
composition also changes due possibly to an increase in number of lingcod on
the reefs during their winter spawning period.
Cotrtnercial and Recreational Fisheries
1.35 Major commercial and recreational fishing areas are shown in figures
A-6 and A-7. The predominant conmercial fishery is for salmon, Dungeness
crab and bottom fish. Salmon trolling and crab fishing are done over much
of the area offshore of the reefs. The actual location varies from year to
year depending on the abundance of fish or crabs.
1.36 GDFW has identified a squid spawning area (figure A-4) and it is
possible that a conmercial fishery will develop on squid if sufficient
stocks exist and a market develops.
1.37 Conmercial landing for the Port of Bandon for 1984 as conpiled by ODFW
(1985) were:
Bottomfish 10,471
Salmon (Chinook) 204
Dungeness crab 866
Total 11,541
1.38 The principal recreational fishing that occurs off Coquille River is
for salmon and bottom fish. Salmon fishing is done by charter boat and
private boat and occurs in the same areas as the conmercial fishing but
generally closer to shore. Bottom fishing, primarily for black rockfish and
lingcod, is done along reef areas to the south by private charter boat.
Other recreational activities include claiming in the bay and along the
beach, and spearfishing along the jetties.
A - 10
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ut
„ specS-eS
sv
-------
124® 27
2 f^L-ccowur
mvetf
CALIFORNIA I NEVADA
%
Vs.
-'/ sand
DUNES
_ p- JETT. _
V.
Rk . -
O0
IZCocpillePt
BANPOI^
scale in yards
0 IOOO
1 1-1 II I II I I
Rhg
COMMERCIAL
FISHING
Figure A-6
Commercial Fishing Areas
A - 12
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Wildlife
1.39 Numerous species of birds and marine mammals occur in the pelagic
near shore and shoreline habitats in and surrounding the proposed disposal
site. Information on distribution and abundance of bird species is from the
Seabird Colony Catalog (Varoujean 1979) and Pacific Coast Ecological
Inventory (USFWS 1981), except as indicated. Information on most species of
shorebirds is lacking so therefore their abundance and distribution can only
be addressed in general terms; they occur along much of the coast primarily
as migrants and/or winter residents. A few species of shorebirds including
western snowy plover, black oystercatcher, killdeer, and spotted sandpiper
nest along the coast. Several species of special concern: the bald eagle,
peregrine falcon, and brown pelican occasionally occur along the coast and
may use the ZSF or the surrounding areas. Pelicans and peregrine falcons
are often associated with spits and offshore rocks. Pelagic birds (e.g.
scoters, petrels) probably use the ZSF and adjacent waters for foraging.
1.40 Data on marine animals is from the Natural History of Oregon Coast
Manmals by Maser et al. (1981), Pearson amd Verts (1970), and the Pacific
Coast Ecological Inventory (USFWS 1981), except as indicated. Except for
seals and sea lions, information on marine mammals is extremely limited.
Whales are known to occur throughout coastal waters primarily during
migrations, but population estimates and information on areas of special use
generally are not available.
1.41 Species and habitats within the ZSF (figure A-8) may be affected, and
include the area north of the Coquille River which is used as a nesting and
wintering area by western snowy plovers. Western snowy plovers are listed
by the State of Oregon as threatened. Brown pelicans, a federally listed
endangered species, use the North Spit area at the mouth of the Coquille
River. Snowy plovers nest and overwinter in the shoreline habitats from
Bandon south; One fourth (13 of 49) of Oregon's breeding populatiion was
located here in 1984 (OR Dept. Fish Wildl., unpubl. data). Gulls and pigeon
guillemots nest on Table Rock. Coquille Point rocks are a nesting site for
Leach's storm-petrels, Brandt's cormorants, pelagic cormorants, western
gulls, and cannon murres. Cormorants amd cotmon murres also nest on Face
Rock. Approximately 100 harbor seals inhabit waters near Bandon.
1.42 Several important wildlife areas outside the ZSF potentially could be
affected by disposal of dredged material. Western snowy plovers nest and
winter from the Coquille River mouth north to Seven Devils, and south from
Bandon to Floras Lake.
A - 14
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124*2/
mvCtt
CALIFORNIA
D
DUNES
J&QUri
BANDON
Tpm
SCALE IN YARDS
0 1000
Li-i
WILDLIFE AREA
Figure A - 8
Wildlife Areas
A - 15
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LITERATURE CITED
Bayer, R., 1983. Ore Aqua Company Biologist, Newport, OR. Personal
ccannunicat ion.
Bertrand, G.A. and J.M. Scott, 1973. Check-list of the Birds of Oregon
Museum of Nat. Hist. Oregon State Univ. Corvallis, OR. 17 pp.
Gabrielson, J.N. and S.G. Jewett, 1970. Birds of the Pacific Northwest.
Dover Publications, Inc. New York, N.Y. 650 pp.
Hancock, D.R., P.O. Nelson, C.K. Sollitt, K.J. Williamson, 1981. Coos Bay
Offshore Disposal Site Investigation Interim Report Phase I, February
1979-March 1980. Report to U.S. Corps of Engineers, Portland, District,
Oregon, for Construct No. DACW57-79-C-0040. Oregon State University,
Corvallis, Oregon.
Hogue, Wayne E, 1982. Seasonal Changes in the Abundance and Spatial
Distribution of a Meiobenthic Assemblage on the Open Oregon Coast and its
Relationship to the Diet of 0-age Flatfishes. Ph.D. thesis, OSU, Corvallis,
OR 125 pp.
Lough, R.G., 1976. Larval Dynamics of the Dungeness Crab, Cancer magister,
off the Central Oregon Coast, 1970-71. Fish. Bull. 74(2):353-376.
Maser, C., B.R. Mate, J.F. Franklin and C.T. Dyrness, 1981. Natural History
of Oregon Coast Mammals. USEft For. Serv. Gen. Tech. Rep. FNW-133, 496 p.
Pac. Northwest For. and Range Exp. Stn., Portland, OR.
MDntagne-Bierly Associates, Inc., l?77. Yaquina Bay Hopper Dredge
Scheduling Analysis. Prepared for: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Portland
District, Navigation Division, P.O. Box 2946, Portland, OR 97208.
Nelson, P.O., C.K. Sollitt, K.J. Williamson, D.R. Hancock, 1983. Coos Bay
Offshore Disposal Site Investigation Interim Report Phase II, III, April
1980-June 1981. Report sufcputted to the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers,
Portland District for Contract No. DACW57-79-0040. Oregon State University,
Corvallis, Oregon.
Oceanographic Institute of Oregon, 1983. An examination of the Feasibility
of Extrapolating Infaunal Data from Coos Bay Oregon to Yaquina Bay Oregon.
Final report USACOE, Portland District contract #DACW57-84-M-1186.
Pearcy, W.G. and S.S. Myers, 1974. Larval Fishes of Yaquina Bay, Oregon; A
Nursery Ground for Marine Fishes? Fish. Bull. 72(1):201-213.
Pearson, J.P. and B.J. Verts, 1970. Abundance and distribution of harbor
seals and northern sea lions in Oregon. Murrelet. 51:1-5.
Peterson, W.T., C.B. Miller and A. Hutchinson, 1979. Zonation and
A - 16
-------
Maintenance of Copepod Populations in the Oregon towelling Zone. Deep-Sea
Research 26A:467-494.
Peterson, W.T. and C.B. Miller, 1976. Zooplanlcton Along the Continental
Shelf off Newport, Oregon, 1969-1972: distribution, abundance, seasonal
cycle, and year-to-year variations. Oregon State University, Sea Grant
College Program Pub. No. GRESU-T-76-002. Ill pg.
Richardson, S.L., J.L. Laroche and M.D. Richardson, 1980. Larval Fish
Assemblages and Associations in the Northeast Pacific Ocean Along the Oregon
Coast, Winter-Spring 1972-1975. Estuarine and Coastal Marine Science (1980)
II, 671-698.
Richardson, S.L. and W.G. Pearcy, 1977. Coastal and Oceanic Fish Larvae in
an Area of Up/elling off Yaquina Bay, Oregon. Fish. Bull. 75(1):125-145.
Richardson, S.L., 1973. Abundance and Distribution of Larval Fishes in
Waters off Oregon, May-October, 1969, with Special Brphasis on the Northern
Anchovy, Engraulis mordax-. Fish. Bull. 71(3):697-711.
Richardson, M.D., A.G. Carey, and W.A. Colgate. 1977. An Investigation of
the Effects of Dredged Material Disposal on Neritic Benthic Assemblages off
the Mouth of the Columbia River. Phase II. KCW57-76-R-0025.
Sollitt, C.K., D.R. Hancock, P.O. Nelson, 1984. Coos Bay Offshore Disposal
Site Investigation Final Report Phases IV, V, July 1981-September 1983.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Portland District, Portland, Oregon, for
Contract No. DACW57-79-C-0040, Oregon State University, Corvallis, Oregon.
Steiner, R.G., 1978. Food Habits and Species Composition of Neritic Reef
Fishes off Depoe Bay, Oregon. Masters Thesis, Oregon State University.
U.S. Dep. of Interior Fish and Wildlife Serv., 1981. Pacific coast
ecological inventory.
Varoujean, D.H., 1979. Seabird colony catalog: Washington, Oregon, and
California. U.S. Dep. Interior Fish and Wildl. Serv., Regioin I., Portland,
OR. 456 pp.
Waldron, K.D., 1954. A Survey of the Bull Kelp Resources of the Oregon
Coast in 1954. Res. Briefs, Fish. Comm. of Oregon. 6:2:15-20.
A - 17
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APPENDIX B
GEOLOGICAL RESOURCES, OCEANOGRAHHC PROCESSES
AND SEDIMENT TRANSPORT OF THE OOQUILLE ZSF
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APPEMDIX B
GEOLOGIC RESOURCES, OCEANOGRAFHIC PROCESSES AND SEDIMENT
TRANSPORT OF HE COQUILLE ZSF
TABLE OF CCNTENTS
Paragraph No. Page tfo.
1.0 Geological Resources
1.01 Regional Setting B^l
1.02 Regional Geology B-l
1.06 Economic Geology B-5
1.08 Sediments B^5
1.13 Conditions in the ZSF B-10
2.0 Oceanograpiiic Processes
2.01 Coastal Circulation B-16
2.03 Ocean Waves and Tide B-16
2.08 Local Circulation B-19
2.12 Site Monitoring at Coquille Br-23
3.0 Sediment Transport
3.01 The N.W. Littoral System B-26
3.05 The Coquille Littoral Cell B-28
3.09 Coquille Sediment Transport B-31
3.10 Ocean Disposal Site B-31
LIST OF TABLES
B-l Dredging Volumes at Coquille B-7
B-2 Coquille Offshore Sediment Sanples B-9
B-3 Coquille River Entrance Sanples B-9
B-4 Coquille River Hydrographic Ratio B-22
B-5 Littoral/Offshore Zones for the Oregon Coast. . .B-28
B-6 Coquille Littoral Cell: Possible Sources and
Losses B-30
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LIST OF FIGURES
B-i Coastal Landforms of the Cape Arago
Littoral Cell . . B-2
B-2 Geology of the Coquiile Watershed and
Distribution of Offshore Sediment .B-3
B-3 Bedrock Geology in the vicinity of the
Mouth of Coquiile River . . , B-4
B-4 Shoaling Locations and Sampling sites
at the Mouth of the Coquiile River B-8
B-5 Surface Geology and Bathymetry of the
Coquiile ZSF . . . . ,B--11
B-6a Seismic Profile Number l of the Coquiile ZSF. . .B-12
B-6b Seismic Profile Number 2 of the Coquiile ZSF, . ,B-13
B 6c Seismic Profile Number 3 of the Coquiile ZSF, . ,B-14
B-7 Sediment Samples from the Coquiile ZSF ,B~!6
B-8 Oregon Coastal Circulation , . . ,B-18
B-9 Seasonal Wave Climate B-20
B-lO Coquiile Wave Climate B-21
B-ll Bottom Current Data at Coquiile B-24
B-12 Littoral System B-27
B-13 Depth of Sediment rfovenent B-29
B-14 Coquiile sediment Transport B-32
-------
APPENDIX B
GEOLOGIC RESOURCES, OCEANOGRAHGC PROCESSES AND SEDIMENT
TRANSPORT OF THE COQUILLE ZSF
1.0 GEOLOGICAL RESOURCES
Regional Setting
1.01 The Coquille River empties into the Pacific Ocean 226 miles south of
the mouth of the Columbia River. It lies within the Cape Arago littoral
cell, which extends for approximately 50 km from Cape Arago in the north to
Cape Blanco in the south (figure B-l). The Coquille is one of the smaller
Oregon estuaries (Percy et al. 1974). The watershed drains both the Oregon
Coast Range and the Klamath Mountains. Along the coast to the north of the
Coquille River, extensive low lying sand dunes extend inland about a quarter
of a mile. These dunes are generally stabilized and subject to only minor
wind erosion. Southward, rocky islands lie offshore and short beaches lie
at the base of bluffs and cliffs. These cliffs are resistant remnants of
eroded marine terraces. Inland, east of the river and north of Bandon,
extensive mudflats and marshes predominate. The Continental Shelf extends
about 20 km (12.4 miles) out from the mouth of the Coquille. There is a
bank on the inner to middle shelf between Coos Bay and Coquille. Sand
covers the bottom for a distance of about 5 miles out from the shore. This
is replaced by a thin layer of mud or sand mixed with mud. Coinciding with
the bank, the bed beyond the sand is exposed rock (Kulm 1977).
Regional Geology
1.02 The mouth of the Coquille river lies close to the boundary between the
Coast Range province and the Klamath mountains. The Coquilie's middle fork
is generally designated as the dividing line between the two ranges, with
the North Fork draining a portion of the southern Coast Range and the south
fork flowing through the Siskiyous (figure B-2). The Siskiyous are the
northern portion of the Klamath mountains. The predominant rocks from this
range within the Coquille's drainage basin are late Jurassic marine
sediments of the Otter Point Formation. These are thin bedded sandstones,
siltstones, and volcanics associated with deep sea deposition. The tectonic
history of the Klamath mountains is complex, with several episodes of
folding and faulting which continue up to the present (Dott, 1971). The
region is currently undergoing tectonic uplift, but that has been surpassed
by the post Pleistocene rise in sea level.
1.03 The southern part of the Coast Range is primarily made up of marine
sediments with interspersed volcanics and intrusive igneous rocks. The most
widespread formation is the rhythmically bedded sandstone of the Tyee
formation of Eocene age. Other sedimentary formations of importance in the
Coqui lie's drainage basin are the Coaledo Formation, the Flournoy Formation
and the Roseburg formation (figure B-3). The igneous rocks include pillow
basalts of early Eocene age and Oligocene gabro intrusions. Uplift of the
B-l
-------
• ~
* IB
/ / .HOflSCSTALL LAME
N0fl7H 8£N0
RIVER
j**«ecc kes
C4<ȣ MAQO
\9
COOOH.Lt POINT
SANDOW
FLOWS
f CAPE BLANCO
PORT ORFOfiO
SCALE Is 250,000
5
STATUTE MILES
NAUTICAL WilCS
UPLANDS
St A CLi^F
STREAM TERAACES ANO FLOOD Plain
MARINE TE««ACES
BEACHES AND DUKE SANO '
Figure B-l
Coastal Landforms of the Cape Arago Littoral Cell
B - 2
-------
Coos — Coquille, Watershed Unit 7
3 0 3 JO ml
APPROX. SCALE
I C 23, 0 0 0
A
¦¦ / m
i coos BAr IV
COQUfLLt
BANK
NDON
4S J' JjVj
PORT
RFORD
<>4U Wr *•> / * v /
>V^&
©
Rack
o
BEDROCK GEOLOGY
arternory Beoch & Dune Sands,
Alluvium B Terraced Deposits
Sedimentory Rocks
Cretaceous 8 Jurassic Mori/te
Sedimentary formations
Lo*er Cretaceous - Upper Jurassic
Fetsic Intrusive*
Jurassic Metamorphosed /ofr jsives (gene/Si.
Figure B-2
Geology of the Coquille Watershed
and Distribution of Offshore Sediments
B - 3
-------
QUATERNARY
QAL — Alluvium
Ql_ - Landslide
OT -Marine Terrace
TERTIARY-EOCENE
TEC - Gooledo Fm.
TEE - ElMon Fm.
TEP - Flowrnoy Fm.
TELG-Lookingglass Fm.
TER-Roseburg Fm.
MES0Z01C JURASSIC
JS - Oiter Pt Btuoschlst
JOV - Otler PI. Volconic
JOR - Offer Pt. Fm.
From Bofdwin Q Beaulieu 1973
Figure B-3
Bedrock Geology
in the Vicinity of the Mouth of the Coquille River
B - 4
-------
Coast Range began in the Miocene (Baldwin, 1981, Baldwin and Beauligu,
1974).
1.04 During the Pliocene and Pleistocene the southern Oregon coast
underwent several episodes of relative submergence and emergence. This,
plus the continued uplift led to the formation of several raised marine
terraces as well as the incision of valleys to below the present sea level.
At Coquille at least two stages of downcutting through pre-Tertiary
formations were followed by periods of infilling. The early Pleistocene
Coquille River cut wn to a lowered sea level. The resulting valley was
filled by the Coquille Formation as the sea level rose again. Subsequently,
a second period of downcutting was followed by late Pleistocene and
Holocene infilling. The modern river is deflected southward by a sand spit
to the southern edge of the last fill (Baldwin, 1981).
1.05 The coastal plain on both sides of the estuary's mouth iscovered by
sand dunes that overlie marine terraces. These dunes are at least 80,000
years old. They had their origin at the end of past high stands of the
ocean when they advanced landward by eolian transport. The sand comprising
the dunes was primarily derived from eroding rocks in the Coast Range and
unconsolidated marine terraces. These sediments were carried to the ocean
by streams and then returned to the land by onshore winds. The rise in sea
level "drowned" the river and stream valleys that had been incised in the
Coast Range and coastal plain. This produced the estuary and allowed the
development of the alluvial plains bordering the lower reaches of the
Coquille River.
Economic Geology
1.06 Large offshore deposits of black sands have been identified a few
miles to the northwest of the Coquille River mouth, but none within the ZSF.
This deposit was found to have a black sand concentration of between 10% to
30%. Minerals of primary interest in black sands are gold, platinum, and
chromite, but the sands also contain numerous other heavy minerals (Baldwin
& Beauligh 1973). The offshore deposits found near the Coquille are not
currently being mined, but sites are being considered for exploration in
1988 (Peterson, per. com.).
1.07 A large gravel deposit is located to the southwest of the ZSF.
Included within the deposit is a gold anomaly zone with a concentration of
over 0.005 ppri gold. The gravels are being considered as a potential future
source of aggregate for urban areas in California. The gold could
conceivably add to the attractiveness of the deposits by carpensating for
some of the dredging costs (Gray and Kulm 1985). While there have been
several attempts to find oil and gas along the Oregon coast, no test well
has turned up more than traces of oil and gas. The offshore well nearest
the mouth of the Coquille was about 12 miles to the northwest, and nothing
more was found than traces of gas. Wells just a few miles inland of the
mouth were no luckier.
Sediments
1.08 The Coquille's estuary covers about 760 acres (Percy and others 1974).
The mean diurnal tidal prism is 1.77 * 108 cu ft. The Coquille River drains
B - 5
-------
ail area of 1,058 sq. mi. Mean annual discharge is 3,288 cfs (cubic
feet/second) with the greatest flow in January, averaging 7600 cfs and low
f idw iri Septeiibef of about 200 cfs. The mean annual discharge * 6 hours is
0.7 * 10#£ cii ft. This gives a hydropathic ratio of about 2t5, indicating
that the estuary is fiuvially dominated and that bedload sediment will be
transported into the ocean. (Peterson, pers. con. 1986). From estimates by
Karliri (1980) the amount Of sand arid gravel that couid be added to the ZSF
by the Coquiiie River each year ranges from 20-50,000 cubic yards.
1.09 A second source of sediment is coastal erosion. Studies providing
information oii specific rates of erosion and material contribution are sadly
lacking. The National Shoreline Study (COE 1971) identified areas of
"non-critical erosion" within the Gape Arago Littoral Ceil at Cape Arago,
Cape Blanco and in the vicinity of Floras Lake; In another study "ocean
undercutting" was recorded along numerous other segments of the coast (USDA
1974). In neither study was any data given oh erosion rates.
1.10 The coastline bordering the Cape Arago littoral ceil consists
primarily of beaches, most fronting sand dunes or Quaternary coastal
terrace deposits (figure B-3). The beaches make tip about 24;5 miles Of the
tbtai 35 iriiles of coast. A little less than 9 miles of the coast are sea
cliffs and 2 miles at the mouth of the Sixes River are fluvial deposits
(Beaulieii et ai. 1974). The sea cliffs are the only places where the sea
can regularly attack bedrock and marine terraces. At Cape Arago, the rock
.is Tertiary sediments of the Coaledo formation. Five Mile Point, Coquiiie
Point, Blacklotk Point and Cape Blanco all provide exposures of Jurassic
Otter Point formation, with additional exposures of Jurassic serpentines and
Cretaceous sediments at Blacklock Point. The very fact that the bedrock is
exposed at capes arid points shows that they are relatively erosion
resistant. Because the exposed bedrock also has a limited linear extent the
potential and actual contribution of sediment from this source is very
small. Landslides are a potentially significant source of sediment, but
the only one mapped within the Cape Arago littoral is on the north side of
Cape Blanco.
1.11 Dredging provides another quantifiable source of sediment for the
littoral zone. Within the Cape Arago littoral cell 59,000 cubic yards of
offshore disposal of dredged material has occured annually off the mouth of
the Coquiiie River. The type of material contributed by dredging depends on
both the location and hydro]ogle conditions. Dredging during or just after
high flows is more likely to pick up fluvial sediments than dredging done
during periods of low flow when marine sediments have intruded into the
mouth. By the same token, the further upstream dredging is done the more
likely it is that fluvial sediments will be encountered.
1.12 Dredging of the Coquiiie River began in 1897 with the first dredging
of the entrance bar and subsequent ocean disposal occurring in 1920. Since
then, over 2.4 million cy have been disposed of at sea. The yearly annual
dredging volume from 1976 to 1985 has averaged 59,102 cy. Variation has
been great, with a maximum of 101,373 cy in 1982 and a minimum of 2,500 in
1980 (table B-l). Dumping at the interim offshore site began in 1977.
Dredging is done to maintain a channel 13 feet deep from the mouth upstream
B - 6
-------
to one mile above the old Coquille River lighthouse. Shoaling occurs
between the jetty ends at the channel entrance. The shoal builds out from
the north jetty to mid channel, and in some years across the entire channel.
A second shoal forms across the whole channel between KM 0.2 and 0.5.
Table B-l
Dredging Volumes* at Coquille
Year Cubic Yards (C.Y.)
1976 95,250
1977 37,000
1978 90,750
1979 82,800
1980 2,500
1981 115,910
1982 101,373
1983 30,025
1984 21,387
1985 14,020
10-Year Average 59,102
*Includes both Corps and contract hopper dredging.
Sediments taken from areas where the Coquille River is dredged for disposal
at sea have a median grain size that is, for the most part, slightly coarser
than the native offshore sediments. Fines are almost nonexistent in this
material, but several samples contain some coarse sand and fine gravel
(tables B-2 and B-3). A series of samples were taken in 1981 from the
entrance to the Coquille upstream to RM 1.2 (figure B-4). The material
close to the entrance had a finer mean grain size than around RM 1 and 1.2.
All but one sample contained more than 10% larger than 0.5 irm and 5% larger
than 1.0 ran. The quantity of the coarse material decreased downstream until
EM 00+00 (at the entrance) where the sample contained more material larger
than 1.0 mm than any of the other samples. In contrast, samples taken in
1970 and 1971 contained very little material larger than 0.5 nm. This
variation in the size of the coarsest fraction over time is probably a
result of the alternating dominance of fluvial and littoral sources. Long
periods of high discharge (giving a short term low hydrographic ratio) would
carry coarse material through the system, while low discharge (giving a
short term high hydrographic ratio) would allow finer marine sands to
migrate upstream. The quantities of the coarse material do not appear to be
sufficient to create any problems for sediment compatibility at the offshore
disposal site. The samples taken from within the current disposal site do
not show any effect of dumping on the grain size analysis.
B - 7
-------
< s
Figure B-4
«»•«
at the Mouth of the coquj.
B - 8
-------
TABLE B-2
Coquille Offshore Sediment Samples
Site
Sanple
Mz (inn)
D50
D90
%fines
Depth
ql-1
q-7
0.16
0,16
0.26
40
ql-2
q-18
0.16
0.15
0.26
50
ql-3
q-20
0.16
0.16
0.26
1
60
ql-4
q-6
0.16
0.14
0.43
1
70
ql-5
q-28
0.09
0.09
0.15
27
80
q2-l
q-55
6.90
0.18
0.28
1
40
q2-2
q-53
1.05
0.16
0.30
1
50
q2-3
q-43
0.19
0.16
0.30
1
60
q2-4
q-41
0.16
0.19
0.42
1
70
q2-5
q-31
0.16
36.8
72.0
0
80
q2-5
q-34
0.17
0.90
5.0
0
80
q3-l
q-64
0.20
0.20
0.29
2
35
q3-2
q-6 8
0.17
0.18
0.29
1
40
q3-3
q-72
0.17
0.18
0.46
9
55
Note: Mean grain size (Mz) calculated losing Folk and
Ward's (1954) parameters. Grain size given in
millimeters.
TABLE B-3
Coquille River Entrance Samples
Location
Date
D50
D90
%fines
(1)
Ent. Sta.0+00
8/25/70
0.23
0.30
0
(2)
Bandon Bar
11/10/71
0.23
0.30
0
(3)
Bar Ent. StOO
to St09
9/02/72
0.23
0.40
0
(4)
Mile 0 - 10+00
8/26/75
0.21
0.70
0
(5)
Near USCG dock
7/13/77
0.25
0.42
0
(6)
RM 00+00
2/18/81
0.28
2.4
0
(7)
1000' west of
lighthouse
2/18/81
0.24
0.30
0
(8)
1000' east of
lighthouse
2/18/81
0.20
0.60
0
(9)
RM 1.0
2/18/81
0.47
0.96
0
(10)
RM 1.2
2/18/81
0.46
2.0
0
Note: Grain size given in millimeters.
B - 9
-------
Conditions in the ZSF
1.13 The bed topography offshore in the vicinity of the designated
disposal area is varied and catplex (figure B-5). To the north of the
Coquille River mouth the bed slopes evenly at about 1 1/1000 from 24 to 84
feet depth. South of the mouth, a line of islets, skerries and submerged
rock pinnacles runs to the northwest. Below 84 feet in depth, there is a
rocky reef with an irregular surface featuring both hollows and high points.
No evidence of a mound of disposed dredged material was found in the July
1985 survey. The headlands, stacks, and, presumably, the rocky sutmarine
outcrops south of the mouth of the Coquille River are composed of the Otter
Point Formation of Late Jurassic age (Lund 1973; Beaulieu and Hughes, 1975).
The more durable units within the Otter Point Formation form the stacks and
islands off Coquille Point. No faults have been recognized that can be
projected into the study area from the onshore geologic mapping. Offshore
geologic mapping has been extended to within 4 to 5 km of the shore off the
mouth of the Coquille River (Clarke and others 1981).
1.14 Because of the substantial distances involved (4 to 5 km), it is not
possible to extrapolate offshore geologic mapping. An anticline was mapped
as having an axial trend of N 30 W which, if projected 4 km to the
southeast, extends into the area around the mouth of the Coquille River.
Mapping also shows a fault with a trend of N 30 W which, if projected 5 km
to the southeast, would also pass through the Coquille study area. This
fault is downthrown on the northeast and cuts Acoustic Unit 2 inferred to be
of late Miocene to Pleiocene age.
1.15 Figure B-5 shows the results of the July 1985 sidescan sonar survey of
the Coquille ZSF. Within the surveyed area fine sand covers the bottom in
the north and central portions and along the southwest edge. There are
scattered rock exposures in the northeast corner and eastern section. Hie
easternmost lobe of the survey showed a pocket of coarse sand or gravel
bordered on one side by some fine sand and scattered rock exposures on the
other. A wide band of exposed rock runs from the northwest side over to
the southeast. The interim disposal site crosses all three major bottom
types. The nearshore end has scattered rock exposures, fine sand crosses
the middle, and bare rock is exposed at the offshore end and the nearshore
half of the southwest side. The proposed designated disposal site, on the
other hand, comprises almost exclusively fine sand sea bed. There are only
a few small rock outcrops exposed within the sites boundaries.
1.16 Seismic profiles (figures B-6a, b, and c) show unconsolidated
sediment of greatly varying thickness Overlying a very irregular bedrock
surface. Profile 1 has a sediment layer ranging from 0 to 30 feet. The
second profile has an abrupt transition from exposed rock to 150 feet of
unconsolidated sediment and back again. That profile may have transversed
the channel cut by the Coquille at a Ibwer sea level. Profile 3, which
crosses the proposed new disposal site, has a continuous layer of sediment
that varies between 20 to 60 feet thick.
B - 10
-------
LEGEND
LMol
COOUILLE RIVER, OREGON
APPROACHES
CQ-I— 267/A Itrr
Figure B-5
Surface Geology and Bathymetry of the Coquille ZSF
B - 11
-------
LEGEND
COOUILLE RIVER PROFILE NUMBER 1
ELEVATION OATUM IS MLLW
FROM FATHOMETER RECORDINGS
LOCATION BY PORTLAND DISTRICT,
COE
NOTES ON BEDROCK CeOLOGY:
Baarecfc consist of in« On«t Fctmation •
• eomplax miitur# of graywacke sanestone. green-
stone and chen with scattarati ftoaies of eiuescnist
(lata Jurassic).
US ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS
PORTLAND DISTRICT
COOUILLS RIVER.
OREGON OFFSHORE SU=5V£Y
SUBBOTTOM PROFILES
PROFILE NUMBER 1
northwest-southeast
OCTOBER 1984
GEO-RECON INTL. SEATTLE. WA
Earth Sciences Associates
Palo Alto, California
SEDIMENT
1M7
DISTANCE in f£ST
Figure B-6a
Seismic Profile Number 1 of the Coquille ZSF
B - 12
-------
LEGEND.
COQUILLE RIVER PROFILE NUMBER 2
ELEVATION DATUM IS MLLW
FROM FATHOMETER RECORDINGS
LOCATION BY PORTLAND DISTRICT,
COE
NOTES CN SESflOCK GEOLOGY:
SftCfOC* convsts of tfie QUftr ?smt Formation •
a corroie* fnuture ct graywacKe sandstone, green-
stone ana cnea witn scatters eocies of Sluescnist
(late Jurassxl.
US ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS
PORTLAND DISTRICT
COGUILLE RIVER,
OREGON OFFSHORE SURVEY
SU8B0TT0M PROFILES
PROFILE NUMBER 2
NORTHWEST—SOUTHEAST
OCTOBER 1M4 JH-3M
GEO—RECON INTL., SEATTLE. WA
Earth Sciences Associates
Palo Alto. California
aOUTMtAST
M«IU
" ?1
usiucit
SEDIMENT
BCCK
2333 rS0 4i«T .«m
01STANC8 'N 'SET
vxa w
-------
LEGEND
C0QU1LLE RIVER PROFILE NUMBER 3
. ELEVATION DATUM IS MLLW
FROM FATHOMETER RECORDINGS
LOCATION BY PORTLAND DISTRICT,
COE
NCTES ON BE2KCCK GEOLOGY:
Beflrecx csnsists e' treOtter ?emt Formation -
a csrrtolvi mixture of grtvwac*e »anesJ#rte. green*
store end chert with witter* beeies of stueacfltst
(late Jurajsici.
US ARMY CORPS OF ENGINEERS
PORTLAND DISTRICT
COQUILLE RIVER,
OREGON OFFSHORE SURVEY
SUB0OTTOM PROFILES
PROFILE NUMBER 3
NORTEAST—SOUTHEAST
0CT08E3 19M J84-293
GEO—RiCCN INT'L.. SEATTLE. WA
Earth Sciences Associates
Palo Aito. California
MO»?HWE5T
SEDIMENT
RCCK
»u 2JO0 »ir
otsTANce in fee?
rso «•«? SCOO U't U3J
Seismic
Figure B-6c
Profile Number 3 of the
B - 14
Coquille ZSF
-------
1.17 The surface sediment in the area near the disposal site is almost all
fine sand (figure B-7). Sanples taken in 1984 range between 0.20 and 0.16
mm mean grain size (table B-2). Within the disposal site the sediment is
the same size, except for two at the outside end. Uiese samples, which were
taken from an area interpreted as bare rock from the sidescan sonar survey,
had mean grain sizes of 1.05 and 6.77 nm. The relative coarseness of these
samples indicate that they may contain material derived from the nearby
exposed rock. Two sairpies had anomalously high percentages of fines, in all
probability those samples contained clasts of silt that became disaggregated
during grain size analysis.
B - 15
-------
D
&-J
5:^ I I
Disposal Site / sand :
Transect / dunes j
IS?^ j
Coquill
aver
L
roC*s • 1
£3 ^ <•:• -/ Co°.
ot-
¦*##«*
§; fOC^ 4*
•. ^
\ /
WEAN grain SIZE IN mm.'JULY 8f
i%>] disposal site
M L W
¦"M'MA a SEDIMENT SAMPLING
-J -»ut-e B-7
~--^iille ZSF
TigareJt^ cotrl
f)CO® *"
Sedi^€
-------
2.0 OCEANOGRAFHIC PROCESSES
Coastal Circulation
2.01 The factors influencing near shore circulation and related sediment
transport include large-scale regional currents, deep water ocean waves,
local winds and waves, river discharge and tides. The circulation patterns
are highly variable both in space and over time, and generalizations for a
specific site or for long term predictions from short-term data is risky.
The following discussion includes a general description of regional
processes, more specific information on local processes, site-specific
monitoring and the resulting circulation at Coquille.
2.02 Regional currents off Oregon are driven by large-scale currents and
weather patterns in the northwestern Pacific Ocean (Parmenter and Bailey,
1985). Hie North Pacific Current is a relatively constant current that
moves eastward across the northern Pacific Ocean approaching land near
Vancouver Island. The deflection of the North Pacific Current to the south
becomes the California Current which maintains a slow year-round surface
flow to the south off Oregon. Superimposed upon this constant southerly
current are seasonal currents due to regional weather patterns. During
winter, strong low pressure systems and predominant winds and waves from the
southwest contribute to a strong northward current called the Davidson
Current. During these storm periods, the Davidson Current can displace the
California Current away from the coast. During the summer, high pressure
systems dominate and waves and winds are camonly from the north. This
constant north wind creates a mass transport of water offshore which results
in ufwelling of bottom water nearshore. In addition, a southerly nearshore
surface current, or coastal jet, develops (figure B-8). Winter currents are
highly variable with occasional southward flow while sumner currents are
more uniformly southward. In both seasons there are fluctuations related to
local wind, tidal and bathymetric effects.
Ocean Waves and Tides
2.03 Ocean waves are generated by winds. Distant storms produce waves that
arrive at the coast as swells which are fairly uniform in height, period and
direction. Local winds produce seas which contain a mixture of wave
heights, periods and directions. Generally, local seas have higher waves
and shorter periods than incoming swell. Waves generated by local winds,
i.e., seas, generally approach the coastline from the SW-S sectors during
autumn and winter but from the N-NW sectors in spring and sunnier. The
longer period swells generated by more distant storms approach generally
from the NW-W or W- SW sectors. Local storms are considered to generate
higher waves than swells with the highest waves always occurring during the
winter and approaching from the Sfl-S sectors. Shortest period sea and swell
occurs during the summer. Longest period swell generally occurs during
autumn while longest period seas occur during winter.
B - 17
-------
SUMMER CIRCULATION
NORTH
WINTER CIRCULATION
NORTH
Figure B-8
Oregon Coastal Circulation
B 18
-------
2.04 Figure B-9 compares the long-term variation of significant wave height
at Newport with Coquille. Winter mean wave height is estimated at 7.6 feet
while sunmer mean height is 4.1 feet. These figures agree with other
estimates and are associated with mean wave periods of 10.3 and 8.4 seconds,
respectively. Figure B-9 also illustrates the percentage of time that a
given significant wave height can be expected to be exceeded as well as the
general recurrence interval. For example, a significant wave height of 10
feet can be expected to occur about 2 percent of the time during the sunmer
but over 20 percent of the time in winter. The maximum significant height
that might be expected in any sunmer is only 14 feet while the maximum
expected in any winter is over 20 feet. Figure B-9 shows the variability in
annual wave height statistics. The probability of occurrence of significant
wave heights for the period 1971-1981 is compared to the probability for the
years since 1981. The probability of higher significant waves was greatest
in 1982-83 and has decreased back to the ten year probability by 1985. The
exceptional wave conditions in 1982-83 were associated with the El Nino
event which was also responsible for a sustained rise in sea level and
severe beach erosion as discussed by Komar (1986).
2.06 Data recorded offshore of Bandon, Oregon are compared with wave
records from offshore at Newport and the wavometer data in figure B-10.
Figure B-10 also compares the 10-year average monthly sea level at Newport
with the 1982-83 period and illustrates the daily variability in wave height
that can be expected. Also shown are the two periods during which bottom
current records were obtained.
2.07 Superimposed upon the slowing-varying regional or seasonal
circulation are periodic currents due to the tides, inertial currents,
internal waves, etc. Tidal currents are rotary currents that change
direction following the period of the tide. Thus, the tidal currents
generally flood and ebb twice daily with the flood direction generally east
of North and the ebb west of South. Tidal current speeds measured at
lightships along the Pacific coast and reported by NCRA (1986) for Coquille
were 72 cm/sec at 091 degrees at maximum flood and 61 cm/sec at 290 degrees
at maximum ebb.
Local Circulation
2.08 The Coquille ocean disposal site is within 1 to 2 miles of the estuary
entrance (figure B-5). Nearshore circulation is highly variable with local
bathymetry modifying general ocean circulation patterns and local winds,
river discharge and tidal currents all-important. Reports by Hancock et al.
(1984), Nelson et al. (1984) and Sollitt et al. (1984) summarize current
meter data offshore of Coos Bay between May 1979 and March 1983. These
reports substantiate the influence of tides on nearshore bottom currents and
winds on surface currents. Bottom current records were found to be
dominated by tidal influence with the maximum velocities associated with
tides, including spring tide effects. These tidal influences were additive
to currents produced by surface waves and winds. One station closest to the
estuary was noticeably affected by the ebb current. Figure B-8 illustrates
the relative influence of winds and tides on near-surface and bottom
currents.
B - 19
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CUMULATIVE DISTRIBUTION OF SIGNIFICANT WAVE HEIGHT
100.0 8 Q
LU
O
z
UJ
0c
a:
z>
o
o
b
>¦
f-
ffl
<
ffl
O
DC
tt.
10.0 ¦ :
1.0- ;
0.1-:
0.01 ¦:
0.001-1
0.0001 , i
0
P
A^g v
> * D
^
I YR
10 YR
50 YR
100 YR
~
» ~
1—I—i—i—i—i—I—i—i—:—i—I—i—i—r~
5 10 15
Hs.FEET
~l—I—I—I—I—I—I—I—I—-+-
20
25
30
YAQUINA (1971- 1981)
° C0QUILLE OUTER BUOY (JAN-DEC 1982)
COQUILLE (AUG-DEC 1983)
.COQUILLE (JAN-DEC 1984)
a COQUILLE (JAN- DEC 1985)
Figure B-9
Seasonal Wave Climate
B - 20
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MONTHLY WAVE HEIGHT
AT COQUILLE 1985
MONTHLY WAVE HEIGHT
AT YAQUINA 1971- 1981
DAILY WAVE HEIGHT
AT COQUILLE 1985
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV DEC
MONTHS OF THE YEAR
Figure B-XO
Coquille Wave Climate
B - 21
-------
2.09 The seasonal wind regime on the Oregon coast was described by Cooper
(1958) and sumuarized by Bourke (1971) and USNWSC (1970). Sunnier winds are
predominantly onshore from the N-NW. Winter winds are of two types with
lower speed offshore winds cannon, bat with frequent strong onshore winds
from the S-SW. The simmer N-NW winds and winter S-SW winds can be highly
variable and influenced by the coastal morphology. Coastal winds can
produce both short period waves and direct wind currents. Both of these
affect disposal sites. Coastal winds produce surface and subsurface currents
directly when relatively constant for several days. Fox and Davis (1974)
studied beach and near shore processes on the Oregon coast in summer 1973.
They confirmed that longshore current reversals occurred 2-3 days after
reversal of the longshore wind. They also found that near shore waves
correlate with local winds and that the higher the angle of wave approach
the stronger the longshore current. Komar (1976) states that direct wind
stress from the strong longshore winds on the Oregon coast can have a
profound effect on longshore currents. Nelson et al. (1984) compared
observed near-surface currents with a wind-driven model for the area
offshore of Coos Bay with a good correlation. Hubertz (1986) discusses wind
effects on nearshore currents at Duck, N.C. and the tendency to minimize
these effects in studying nearshore currents.
2.10 The Coquille River is highly responsive to storm runoff in winter
months, resulting in high outflows during coastal storms for periods of
several days. Less outflow occurs in summer with minimum flows usually in
August and September. This constant but seasonally varying river outflow
combines with tidal flows to produce a highly variable influence on the
nearshore circulation. In the estuarine part of the river, the ebbing tide
adds to the normal river discharge to produce a net ebb dominance. Peterson
et al. (1984) use the Hydrographic Ratio (HR) to compare the tidal prism
with the river discharge for the same six hour period. The tidal prism is
estimated as the volume of water brought into the estuary by each flood
tide. The six-hour river discharge is estimated fran the annual average
discharge. The higher the HR the more tidally-dominated the estuary. Very
high HR ratios presumably indicate no river sediment escaping while very low
HR ratios would indicate most river sediment is discharged to the ocean.
Table B-4 lists important characteristics of the Coquille study area:
Table B-4
Coquille River Hydrographic Ratio
DRAINAGE ESTUARINE AVE. RIVER HR
BASIN AREA TIDAL PRISM DISCHARGE HYDRO MAXIMUM
SQ. MILES CTJ. FT. 10*6 OJ. FT./SEC RATIO DISCHARGE
(A) (P) (D)
COQUILLE 1058 132(421) 3,300 2(6) 49000
* Note: HR = P / volume of discharge for a 6 hour period; the numbers in ()
are from Kreag (1979). The remainder are from Percy et al. (1974) and
Johnson (1972).
B - 22
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2.11 More recent work by Peterson et al. (1982) and Peterson (1983) have
shown offshore influences of estuaries. Where the river discharge is high
compared to the tidal prism (estuary area x tide range) river sediments are
discharged to the ocean. As shown by the values in table B-4, the Coquille
River probably discharges sediment to the ocean on an annual basis. These
effects are probably most evident during winter storm runoff which are
coincident with high wave energy offshore. Boggs and Jones (1976) work on
the Sixes esturary illustrates the varying influence of tidal and river
forces.
Site Monitoring at Coquille
2.12 Detailed current measurements have been obtained from Oregon
nearshore dredge material disposal sites. The most thorough study has been
conducted at Coos Bay, Oregon. Seasonal measur orients made over two-week
periods showed currents at the 25-m-deep disposal site averaged between 20
and 30 cm/s at one-third the water depth during the summer and between 30
and 60 cm/s during the winter and spring. Near-bottom currents were
generally between 10 and 20 cm/s with downslope flow components
predominating over upslope components. Near-bottom waters exhibited
downslope movement to depths in excess of 40 m during the summer and deeper
than 70 m during the winter. Similar conditions are expected to exist at
the interim Coquille disposal site since both sites are in similar depth
regimes.
2.13 Current meters were deployed near the Coquille ocean disposal site in
1985. The meters were attached to moorings at depths from 76 to 90 feet.
Bottom current records were obtained from March 17 to March 31 and from July
12 to July 26 in 1985. These periods were picked to represent typical
winter and sunnier conditions. Figure B-ll illustrates the daily average
bottom current speed and direction for the winter record. In this current
rose, each bar represents the direction the current is moving. The length
of the bar represents the percent of occurrence of the current in that
direction and the width of the bar represents the range of velocity.
2.14 Wave conditions from onsite monitoring in 1985 were compared with long
term wave data for other locations. Figure B-9 illustrates the variability
in annual significant wave height. The vertical bars are daily wave heights
from a meter offshore of Coquille in 1985 referred to the scale on the left.
The Yaquina ten-year monthly average and Coquille monthly average are
plotted using the scale on the right. Onsite monitoring data are plotted as
points referenced to the scale on the right.
2.15 Wave records near the ocean disposal site were obtained continuously
during 1985 by one meter and from March 18-30, April 12-26 and July 12 to
August 12 by another meter in 1985. Significant wave heights and periods
were computed for the six month period as shown in Figure B-9. Also shown
on the figure are the monthly average wave heights computed from records at
the port wavemeter between 1971 and 1981. The short period records were
analyzed for directional wave spectra as well as the period and significant
height. The wave and current data with grain size and depth were used to
compute a predicted sediment transport rate and direction for the period.
B - 23
-------
0°
n
4.0 (ft/sec)
VELOCITY DISTRIBUTION
COQU1LLE (March 17 - May 4,1985)
4.0HI/MC)
MAGNETIC
NORTH
VELOCITY DISTRIBUTION
COQUILLE (JULY 12- AUGUST I5.I985)
Figure B-ll
Bottom Current Data at Coquille
B -24
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2.16 The picture of nearshore circulation is complicated. Short term
records of currents at one location such as obtained in 1985-86 should be
used with care. Much additional work is required before such data can be
used to predict currents at the same site for other conditions or at
different sites. The information presented for each ocean disposal site is
intended to represent conditions for a two week period and to show the
possibilities for such data to be used to predict sediment transport.
B - 25
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3.0 SEDIMENT TRANSPORT
The Northwest Littoral System
3.01 Introduction. Selection of offshore disposal sites on the Oregon
coast must consider the sediment transport regime and disposal effects on
the existing local sediment budget. At each dredging project, there is a
need to locate offshore disposal sites to balance the need to keep dredged
material in the active littoral zone for downdrift beach nourishment with
the need to prevent the dredged material from returning to the entrance
channel. This requires knowledge about the direction and rate of longshore
transport as well as offshore transport. Previous sections have discussed
geologic factors and the oceanographic environment which affect sediment
transport. This section will discuss this information as it applies to the
littoral system and sediment movement at the Coquille disposal site.
3.02 Figure B-12 illustrates the littoral system on the Oregon coast, which
consists of interconnected sediment reservoirs such as estuaries, dune
fields, beaches and the nearshore bottom. Rivers, sea cliffs, and relict
near shore sand deposits are the primary sources of sediments filling these
reservoirs. (Kulm and Byrne, 1966; Scheidegger et al. 1971). Sediment is
actively transported between these reservoirs by natural processes including
river currents, tidal currents, ocean waves and currents, and winds. Any
effort to establish potential effects of estuarine dredging and offshore
disposal on nearby beaches and the littoral system must consider the
existing sediment budget.
3.03 A seasonal model for sediment transport has been described by Komar et
al. (1976) for the Oregon coast where winter storms erode and transport sand
offshore and simmer swell moves sand onshore. According to this model, the
direction of transport reverses seasonally as a result of the change in
direction of winds and waves. In winter> the larger, steeper waves erode
the beach and carry sediment offshore while the smaller sunmer waves move
sediment back toward the beach. At sane distance offshore, net transport is
northward year-round (Scheidegger et al. 1985). Hallermeier (1981) defined
two zones of sand transport based on wave conditions. The inner littoral
zone is the area of significant year-round alongshore and onshore-offshore
transport by breaking waves. The outer shoal zone is affected by wave
conditions regularly enough to cause significant onshore-offshore
transport. Using Hallermeier (1981) and longterm wave data from Newport
(Creech, 1981) table B-5 was derived for offshore Oregon.
B - 26
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OFFSHORE^-
OCEAN
DISPOSAL
WAVES
^HEADLAND
?DUNES^>
•TV.
STREAMBANK
EROSION^v .V....
iX. SAND
REMOVAL
BEACH
SURFACE
EROSION
IFILL
V V.-.-T"-'
•V.
SHOALS
SHOALS
BEACH
ESTUARY
SEDIMENTATION
WAvi[
RIVER
DISCHARGE
RIP X—-/j
CURRENTS n ^1
DUNES
CLIFF
\ ,»* • '
'LANDSLIDE
LITTORAL
SEDIMENT TRANSPORT
mm-
" h'ea6Land ' """
Figure B-12
Littoral System
B - 27
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Table B-5
Littoral/Offshore Zones for the Oregon Coast
LITTORAL(SURF ZONE) OFFSHORE(SHOAL ZCNE)
SUMVER
WINTER
ANNUAL
0-28 feet
0-51 feet
0-44 feet
28-83 feet
51-268 feet
44-142 feet
3.04 Hancock et al. (1984) calculated the probability for wave-induced
current velocities at various depths off Coos Bay. Fran other studies, a
critical velocity of 20 cm/sec has been shown necessary to erode sediment in
the 0.2 nm sand size, cannon off Coquille and Coos Bay. Figure B-13 is a
plot of the Coos Bay data showing the decreasing probability of sediment
movement with depth. There is considerable seasonal scatter but, in
general, the probability of wave-induced sand movement is very small beyond
a depth of about 150 feet. Another line of evidence cones from sediment
studies, including use of heavy mineral analysis. This gives a long term
average (hundreds of years) and a less precise definition of the depth
limit. Various studies have suggested an offshore limit of modern sand
movement at the 60 foot depth, while others push this limit out to over 100
feet. Recent work suggests that this offshore limit can be better defined
for specific areas. Work on this is in progress (Peterson, pers. conm).
The Coquille Littoral Cell
3.05 Figure B-l shows the Cape Arago Littoral Cell which extends north
approximately 55 km north from Cape Blanco to Cape Arago and contains the
Coquille and Sixes Rivers. Sediments found nearshore are predominantly
relict or left over fran lower sea levels (Scheidegger et al. 1971). During
the past one million years large quantities of sediment originated from as
far south as the Klamath Mountains of southern Oregon-northern California
and was carried north by the prevailing littoral currents (Scheidegger et
al. 1971). The mineralogies of these sediments and modern beach sands are
similar, indicating the importance of relict littoral sands to the nearshore
and beach (Peterson, pers. corm. Based on comparison of tidal and river
discharge it appears that both the Coquille and Sixes Rivers are
contributing sediments to the littoral cell.
3.06 Within the overall Cape Arago Littoral Cell is a subcell marked by the
seaward submerged extension of Coquille Point. Within this subcell, the
possible sources of sediment are the Coquille River and parts of the coastal
terraces. There are indications that there is no longshore transport into
the cell fran south of Coquille Point and the probable limit for onshore
transport is about -80 feet. Based on estimates by Karlin (1980) of
sediment yields for the Coquille River, approximately 17-51,000 cubic yards
of bedload material could be annually contributed to this littoral subcell
by the Coquille River. Rocky seacliffs are present only at Coquille Point
B - 28
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90-
MAY 1979
SEP 1979
NOV 1979
FEB 1980
80--
70--
OJ 60 -
50--
U. 40 -
-J 30--
20--
0--
200
300
100
0
DEPTH IN FEET
Figure B-13
Depth of Sediment Movement
B - 29
-------
and probably provide minimal sediment. There are indications that little or
no sediment is bypassed at either headland (Peterson, pers. comm.) which
could indicate that any sand moved around the headlands is lost to the
offshore beyond about -80 feet. Other possible losses of sediment within
the littoral cell are to the estuaries and dunes. Neither the Sixes or
Coquille Rivers are considered to be accumulating sediments, however, there
is intrusion of marine sands during low riverflow. There are active dune
fields north of the Coquille River mouth, which may indicate some loss of
littoral sand. There is no systematic mining of littoral or dune sands at
present but sctne or all of the 60,000 cubic yards annually dredged from the
entrance channel is probably carried offshore.
3.07 More recent work by Peterson et al. (1982) and Peterson (1983) have
shown offshore influences of estuaries. Where the river discharge is high
compared to the tidal prism (estuary area x tide range) river sediments are
discharged to the ocean. The Coquille River probably discharges sediment to
the ocean on an annual basis. These effects are probably most evident
during winter storm runoff which are coincident with high wave energy
offshore. Boggs and Jones (1976) work on the Sixes estuary illustrates the
varying influence of tidal and river forces. The Coquille has a similar HR
to the Sixes and both are strongly influenced by river discharge, especially
in winter months when net transport is seaward under high riverflow. By
contrast, during summer low riverflow net transport is into the estuary.
However, the Sixes shows and net bypassing of sand-size sediments into the
ocean little or no long term accumulation of fine sediments in the estuary
and net. This should also be true of the Coquille.
3.08 Figure B-6 shows how the sediment covers changes in thickness and
continuity in the 25F possibly reflecting Coquille River input. By
comparing subsurface profiles and the geologic map we can infer that the
thin and discontinuous sediment cover of Profile 1 represents an area with
iittle sediment being supplied. Profile 2, while still rocky, shows thick
levees of sediment possibly indicating sane sediment supplied, while further
north on Profile 3, there is a more continuous sediment layer over 25 feet
thick. Table B-6 identifies the possible sources and losses of littoral
sediments in the Coquille littoral celi:
Table B-6
Coquille Littoral Cell: Possible Sources and Losses
SOURCES
LOSSES
1. Rivers
Coquille
Sixes
2. Erosion
Dunes
Terraces
3. Headland Bypassing
4. Onshore Transport
1. Estuaries
2. Dune Growth
3. Headland Bypassing
4. Offshore Transport
5. Ocean Disposal
Seacliffs
B - 30
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Coquille Sediment Transport
3.09 Figure B-14 is a generalized description of seasonal sediment
transport in the Coquille ZSF using available information. The bathymetry
and sediments are complex offshore which influences any general predictions.
From both Hallermeier (1981) and observed currents and sediment mineralogy,
the zone of active bottom sediment movement probably extends to almost -80
feet. The area where longshore currents predominate is shoreward of about
-50 feet. The sumrter current records indicate southerly transport
withboth onshore and offshore components. During the sunmer the Coquille
River discharge is at a minimum indicating intrusion of marine sand into the
estuary. There may be scane accumulation of sand in the near shore next to
the north jetty and between the south jetty and Coquille Point. There is no
long term sediment accumulation as indicated by the thinness of the sediment
layer. During the winter there is a discharge of river sediment. The
coarser sediments just south of the jetties may tie an accumulation of river
material. The majority of the more mobile sand moves offshore and to the
north. The sutanerged extension of Coquille Point seems to effectively
block any sediment movement from further south in the littoral cell.
Ocean Disposal Site
3.10 The majority of the existing disposal site is rocky with a very thin
layer of sand. An area of sand inshore of the site may actually be where
previous dredged material was disposed or an accumulation of winter river
sediment discharge. The bottomfeatures and bathymetry of the proposed site
are more compatible with the type of historic disposal operation. The
average 60,000 cubic yards of dredged sand conpares to from 17-51,000 cubic
yards of river bedload annually contributed to the area. Use of the
proposed site would probably not affect the overall littoral sediment
budget. By moving the site northward, however, the use of the shallow end
of the site in early summer might allow material to be transported back
toward the entrance channel. For this reason, it is recommended that use of
the proposed site be contingent upon preparation of a disposal monitoring
plan.
B - 31
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LEGEND
COQUILLE RIVER. OREGON
APPROACHES
CQ -I- 2S7/A
-------
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B - 34
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B - 35
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Dispersal Patterns of Oregon Continental Shelf Sands. Jour. Sed. Pet., v4l,
n4, pp 1112-1120.
Schlicker, H.G., et al., 1973. Environmental Geology of Lincoln County,
Oregon. Oregon Dept. Geol. and Mineral Ind. Bull. 81.
Seymour, R.J. 1981. Coastal data information program monthly reports, 1981
through present. Calif. Dept. Boating and Waterways, Scripps Institute of
Oceanography, La Jolla, CA.
Sherwood, C.R., et al., 1983. Sedimentary Processes and Environments in the
Columbia River Estuary. Uhpub. draft Report to CREDDP, Astoria, OR.
Sobey, E.J.B., 1977. The response of Oregon shelf waters to wind
fluctuations: differences and the transition between winter and simmer. PhD
thesis, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR.
Sollitt, C.K. and D.R. Standley, 1984. Unpublished Data Report to Portland
District, COE.
Sollitt, C.K., P.O. Nelson, K.J. Williamson and D.R. Hancock, 1984. Coos Bay
offshore disposal site investigation final report, Report to U.S. Arm/ Corps
of Engineers, Portland District, Portland, OR, under contract no.
EftCW57-79-C0040, Oregon State University, Corvallis, OR.
Stevenson, M.R., J.G. Pattullo and B. Wyatt, 1969. Subsurface currents off
the Oregon coast as measured by parachute drogues. Deep-sea Research, 16,
pp 449-461.
Thonpson, E.F., G.L. Howell and J.M. McKee, 1985. Unpublished Draft Report
to Portland District, COE.
B - 36
-------
Tunon, N.A.A., 1977. Beach Profile Changes and Gnshore-Offshore Sand
Transport on the Oregon Coast. MS thesis, OSU, 58 pp.
US Navy Weather Service Conmand, 1970.
USACE, 1965. Yaquina Bay and Harbor, Oregon - Design Memorandum No. 3,
Geology. Portland District Library.
USACE unpublished data. Littoral Environmental Observation Program (LED).
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Portland District, Portland, OR.
USACE, 1883. Annual Report to the Chief of Eiigineers. Portland District
Library, p. 2065.
usacoe, 1986. Geologic and Seismic Investigation of Oregon Offshore
Disposal Sites. Final Contract Report by Earth Sciences Associates
Georecon, to Portland District, COE.
Zirges, M., 1983. Bottom Current Patterns over Pink Shrimp Beds off Oregon
Determined from Sea-bed Drifter Studies. Unpublished Progress Report by
Oregon Dept. of Fish and Wildlife.
Zopf, D., Creech and Quinn, 1976. The wave meter: a land-based system for
measuring nearshore ocean waves. OSU/Sea Grant ORESU-R-76-013.
B - 37
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APPENDIX C
SEDIMENT CHEMISTRY
AND WATER QUALITY
-------
APPEMDIX C
SEDWENT CHEMISTRY AND WATER QUALITY
TABLE OF COTTENTS
Paragraph No. Page Mo.
1.01 General C-l
1.02 Grain Size C-l
1.03 Physical Analysis C-l
1.04 Chemical Analysis C-6
1.05 Sumnary C-6
LIST OF TABLES
C-l Sediment Characteristics C-l
LIST OF FIGURES
C-l Sampling Locations for Sediment Analyses C-2
C-2 Grain Size Curves for Coquille Estuary C-3
C-3 Grain Size Curves for Disposal Site,
Middle Transect . . . C-4
C-4 Grain Size Curves for Disposal Site,
South Transect C-5
-------
APPENDIX C
SEDIMENT CHEMISTRY AND WATER QUALITY
General
1.01 General criterion (b) and specific factors 4, 9, and 10 of 40 CFR
228.5 and 228.6 require sediment and water quality analysis of both the
disposal and dredging areas. Sediment sartples from the channel of the
Coquille federal navigation project were collected by the Portland District,
Corps of Engineers in February, 1981. The Coquille offshore disposal site
was sampled in July, 1985. Locations of the sampling stations are shown in
figure C-l.
Grain Size
1.02 The grain size distribution curves for Coquille channel sediments show
poorly-sorted sand with increasing gravel downstream towards the bar at
about RM 0.0 (figure c-2). Disposal site sediments ranged from
poorly-sorted gravelly sand to well-sorted fine sand (figures C-3 & C-4).
Thus, the grain size of the dredged sediment closely approximates that at
the disposal site.
Physical Analysis
1.03 The percentages of volatile solids in channel sediments were all less
than 1.5% (table C-l).
Table C-l
Sediment Characteristics
Median Grain % Volatile
Sample #
Location
Size (mm)
Solids
1
RM 00 + 00
0.28
0.54
2
1000' W. of Lighthouse
0.24
0.84
3
1000' E. of Lighthouse
0.20
1.48
4
RM l.O (Moore Lumber Dock)
0.45
0.63
5
RM 1.2
0.45
0.70
This was less than values at the disposal site, where volatile solids ranged
between 0.8 to 2.9% with one exception. Sample site Q-53 at the 50-foot
depth level had a reading of 12.3% volatile solids. This seems unusually
high for well-sorted fine sand away from the disposal site, especially since
surrounding sites show values under 1.5%. Thus, the 12.3% anomaly seems to
be a spurious value and probably does not indicate a pollution problem.
C-l
-------
Q-55
NORTH
JETTY
LIGHTHOUSE
Q-6!
X3-72
0-64
SOUTH
JETTY
BA N 0 0 N
y COQUILLE PT.
COQUILLE RIVER
YARDS
1000
Figure C-l
Sampling Locations for Sediment Analyses
C-2
-------
U.S. STANDAK) SIEVE OfENING IK' INCHES U.S. STANOABD SlfVl NUMJfe
6 4 J 7 1 Yt I ^ W H 3 4 i I 10 U 1« 20 30 4 0 5 0 70 tOO 140 200
i n i—I
KTDtQMfTH
I 0.5
GIUtN SIZE MILLIMETERS
0.01 0.005
0.001
Gl*v;i
i*NO
»1T o« eur
l • «nt no
toitaRiVER/COASTAL SEDIMENT ANALYSIS
RM 00
SAND (S?)
RM 1.0 Mocre Lumber Dock
SAND (S?)
RM 1.2
SAND (S?)
Coquille River
10001 West; of Lighthouse
1000' East! o£ Lighthouse
SAND (S?)
SAND (SP)
GRADATION CURVES
dati 18 Feb 81
(81 —S—816)
Figure c-2
Grain Size Curves for Coquille Estuary
C-3
-------
U.S. STANDARO SIEVE OPENING :N INCHES
U. 1 S7ANOARO St£V£ NUMBERS
HTORCMCiTR
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U. S STAnOARO SiEVC OPENING IN FNOiES U. S. SUNQAflQ SIEVE WUM&CBS
5 <3 1 1+ . i + i 3 . > I 10 ]iUS 20 30 40 50 70 100 1*0 200
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Figure C-4
Grain Size Curves for Disposal Site, South Transect
C-5
-------
Chemical Analysis
1.04 No chemical analysis of Coquille sediments has been done. Limited
chemical analyses have been performed on other estuarine sediments in Oregon
(USGS). However, there is no reason to expect significant chemical
contamination as few heavy industries are located along the estuary. There
is carmercial fishing, fish processing, and three lumbermills—including the
Moore Mill at River Mile 1.3. These mills have been operating
intermittently during the last several years and they do not seem to have
increased the organic load, as measured by the volatile solids (table C-l).
Surrmary
1.05 The material to be disposed of in the OEMDS at Coquille closely
matches the sediments at the disposal site, does not have a significant
amount of silt, and is low in volatile solids. There should not be any
problem with continued disposal of Coquille entrance channel sediment at the
COOS.
LITERATURE CITED
Findings of Compliance and Non-corpliance, Operations and Maintenance,
Dredged Material Disposal Activities at Coastal Projects. U.S Army Corps of
Engineers, Portland District, 1980.
Analysis of Elutriates, Native Water, and Bottom Material in Selected Rivers
and Estuaries in Western Oregon and Washington. U.S. Geological Survey Open
File Report 82-922.
C - 6
-------
APPENDIX D
RECREATIONAL USE
-------
APPENDIX D
RECREMTCNAL USE
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Paragraph Mo. Page No.
1.01 Recreational Use Areas D-l
1.06 Impacts of Disposal Operations. . D-l
1.09 Conclusions D-3
LIST OF FIGURES
D-l Recreation Resources D-2
-------
APPENDIX D
RECREATIONAL USE
Recreational Use Areas
1.01 Figure D-l identifies the major recreational use areas within the ZSF.
The area receives recreational use year-round with the most popular months
being from May through September. Primary activities include fishing,
camping, beachcombing, sightseeing and picnicking.
1.02 Beginning at the north jetty and extending north along the coast for
several miles is Bui lards Beach State Park. Recreational attractions
include a campground, picnic areas, boat launch, horseback riding, hiking,
beachcombing and claiming. The Coquille Lighthouse parking lot is the only
development located within the northern half of the ZSF. This area has been
subject to damage from ocean hydrology and storm activity. State Park
personnel are considering moving the lighthouse parking lot behind the
foredune where conditions are more stable.
1.03 Another state park located within the ZSF is the Bandon Ocean
Wayside. This is a 15-acre park located along the coast approximately 1 mile
south of the Bandon city center. Bandon Wayside offers park visitors
sightseeing and photographic opportunities of the offshore rock outcroppings
and Oregon Island National Wildlife Refuge. The wayside provides access to
the beach where beachcombing is a popular activity at low tides. The
viewpoint area is heavily used by visitors during the surrmer months.
Existing facilities include a parking - lot and viewing area.
1.04 The Coquille River jetties are small, which restricts their use during
periods of rough weather. Despite this limitation, the area is popular for
its bottom fishing opportunities. Fishing pressure is heaviest from June
through August when surf conditions are less threatening and more
predictable.
1.05 The offshore fishery is for both rockfish and salmon. The most
popular and productive area is offshore of Coquille Point. This is also a
very scenic area because of the rocky headlands and offshore sea stacks.
Impacts of Disposal Operations
1.06 The proposed disposal site identified in figure D-l is located outside
of any major recreational use areas. As a result, few conflicts are
expected to ccur between recreationists and disposal operations. Any
conflicts that may arise would occur as the vessel was in route to the
disposal site. These conflicts could include time delays for recreational
boaters caused by the passing of the dredge or an increase in navigation
hazards during congested periods. Conflicts such as these can be considered
an inconvenience rather than a threat to recreational activity. The only
serious threat is the potential for collision between recreational boaters
and dredge traffic. Confrontations of this nature are rare due to the slow
speed at which the dredge moves. Unless there is a significant change in
D-l
-------
C*t rronn
BEACHCOMBING
BULLARDS BEACH
STATE PARK
mrnm
MMS
JETTY
FISHING
\ INTERIM ^
tys#~ - --
RQCKFISH
opsssrt
OREGON ISLANDS
NWR
SCALE IN YARDS
0 IOOO
1 t t I I I I t t I 1
RECREATION
RESOURCES
'y./J/Y//'.
• BANDON OCEAfc
WAYSIDE
u
Figure D-l
Recreation Resources
D-2
-------
equipment or operational procedures, the potential for collision will
remain low.
1.07 When dredged material is deposited at the disposal site, the
surrounding water conditions will deteriorate. This condition will result
in a reduced visual quality of the area and possibly disrupt the feeding
patterns of sport fish. Both of these situations would be temporary and
normal conditions would return as soon as the sediment had settled.
1.08 Sediment deposition along the beach is another possible consequence of
disposal operations that could affect recreational activity. Hie
accumulation of dredged material on the beaches could potentially interfere
with the free movement of sand, which may affect the vegetative cover or
modify the landscape topography. If the slope of the beach is altered
significantly, it could interfere with the accumulation of driftwood and
other items of interest to beachcombers. A change in slope could also
affect local clam beds. These changes would result in reduced recreational
opportunities for the area. Another potential problem with beach nourishment
is the accumulation of foreign material on the beaches. If the dredged
material has a different color or texture than the existing material, the
results could be a reduction in the visual quality of the area.
Conclusions
1.09 Use of the proposed disposal site should have little impact on
existing recreation. During disposal operations, water conditions would
deteriorate. Any impact this may have on sport angling or visual quality of
the area would only be temporary. Some inconveniences would be experienced
by recreational boaters and fishermen; but overall, disposal operations
appear to pose no serious threat to recreation.
1.10 If future studies indicate that disposal operations are either
detrimental to ocean fauna, found to be disrupting sediment deposition along
the coastline, or are responsible for any long term water quality problems,
further information should be collected to determine more specifically what
extent these impacts would have on recreation. Until any of these impacts
are observed, future disposal of dredged material at the present site is not
expected to have any substantial effects on recreation.
D - 3
-------
APPENDIX E
CULTURAL RESOURCES
-------
APPENDIX E
CULTURAL RESOURCES
TABLE OF CCMTENTS
Paragraph No. Page No.
1.01 Introduction E-l
1.03 Early Prehistoric Sites E-l
l.ll Historical Cultural Resources E-2
1.15 Shipwreck Location MDdel E-4
1.19 Preservation Settings E-6
1.21 Coquille Project Site Evaluation E-6
1.23 Historic Wrecks in the Coquille Study Area. . .E-7
1.27 Side Scan Sonar Results E-10
LIST OF TABLES
E-l Documented Wrecks in the Coquille Vicinity . . .E-ll,12,13
LIST OF FIGURES
E-l Time-Depth Correlations E-3
E-2 Shipwreck Frequencies E-5
E-3 Wreck Site Locations E-8
E-4 Seasonality of Wrecks E-9
-------
APPENDIX E
CULTURAL RESOURCES
Introduction
1.01 Research and analysis of the relevant historical records and the
preservation context indicate that the most likely cultural resource within
the project area are shipwrecks. A review of environmental changes since
the first colonization of the North American continent, and the rise in sea
level and subsequent erosion of former ground surfaces, suggests that the
preservation context has been substantially degraded and that early
prehistoric sites would not have survived. There are, however, examples of
archeological sites in areas inundated by the sea, indicating that the
problems of submerged early prehistory cannot be entirely dismissed.
Moreover, recent cultural resources are unlikely because no new land forms
have been exposed or developed since the present sea level was established
6,000 years ago. Other than perhaps the lost or discarded elaments of
fishing gear used in an offshore fishery, there is little possibility that
prehistoric sites more recent than 6,000 years ago are present within the
study areas.
1.02 The following portion of this appendix is an overview of the basic
archeological issues and provides background for each of the study areas
discussed more fully below.
Early Prehistoric Sites
1.03 Many important archeological issues have yet to be resolved. Among
these is the major research question concerning the initial colonization of
the North American continent. Although there is little consensus on the
time of arrival, archeological opinion holds that the first colonists (the
forerunners of today's Native Americans) migrated across the Bering Straight
from Asia to North America on a land mass that was exposed in a low sea
cycle during the Wisconsinan ice age in the late Pleistocene.(1) The dates
of these migrations vary, ranging from as early as 75,000 to 60,000 years
ago during the Middle Wisconsinan to the more recent late Wisconsinan
glaciation of 20,000 to 12,000 years ago.(2)
1.04 There are significant archeological issues associated with a lower sea
level. During periods when the sea stood at a lower level, a broader, more
extensive coastal plain was present. Baldwin, for example, notes that the
principal valley mouths along the Oregon coastline have been drowned by
rising sea levels.(3) If prehistoric people migrated down the coast they
would have followed a beach line that is now inundated by current ocean
levels.(4)
1.05 A number of studies have been made which correlate ocean depths with
the time periods when these areas were exposed ground surfaces. These
studies, based on the analysis of submerged beach and strand lines, and in
some cases supported by radiocarbon dates, have established a generalized
scale correlating decreases in ocean depths (as water was taken up and
E - 1
-------
frozen in continental glaciers) with the time these events occurred. (5,6,7)
Figure E-l approximates this information.
1.06 For the purposes of this paper, the graph focuses on potential areas
where early prehistoric sites might be located. It does not prove or
demonstrate the presence of any sites. In fact, though archeological sites
have been found in areas inundated by the ocean, their age range tends to
cluster around more recent times rather than the glacial periods.
1.07 For example, a major archeological deposit has been located along the
California coastline. Hie artifacts which compose the site indicate a
substantial settled Indian occupation with an emphasis on seed processing.
The artifact styles indicate a site at least 7,000 years old—if not older.
Artifacts have been found to depths of 100 feet. Though the site's
geomorphology has not been totally worked out one interpretation suggests
that, "As sea level rose it built up a series of barrier beaches fronting
the lagoon and the inhabitants settled on or at least lived near these
beaches. The rising sea level forced the progressive abandonment of these
sites and in each case left a sheet of artifact material on the near shore
bottom extending offshore from the present beach to the 30 or 40 foot
curve."(8)
1.08 Another site along the California coastline is thought to be 3,000 to
5,000 years old based on artifact styles. This site is in 15 to 25 feet of
water. Estimating the age of the site with the time-depth graph supports
the typological age of the site. The site may be an example of a lowland
setting that was one of the last surfaces covered by a rising sea. The
significance of this site in contrast to the preceeding example is the fact
that it is a primary uneroded deposit. As an uneroded site it indicates
that an archeological site can survive inundation and near shore currents
if it is located in a buffered or sheltered setting. (9)
1.09 Key components used in analyzing the disposal sites under evaluation
are site depth, topographic features that might lend themselves to buffering
an archeological site from wave energy, and sediment type which may indicate
a stable long term geological setting.
1.10 Prehistoric cultural resources more recent than 6,000 years ago are
unlikely in the project area. Though implements used to procure marine
resources during subsistence activities may be present, the presence of
archeological sites is very unlikely. Since 6,000 years ago, the project
area, (especially the disposal sites) has been covered by the ocean.
Appropriate environments suitable for human habitation have not been
present.
Historical Cultural Resources
1.11 The most probable cultural resources and the ones most likely to
survive conditions of the project area are shipwrecks. Ocean-going ships
and vessels of the coastal trade played a fundamental role in the
Northwest.(10) Sailing vessels accomplished the first explorations along
the Oregon coast. Sail-powered vessels moved goods and people during the
early fur trade and initial settlement. As settlement expanded and
E - 2
-------
YEARS AGO (xlOOO)
BUTZER 1971:225
CRESSMAN 1977:47
Figure E-l
Time-Depth Correlations
E - 3
-------
corroercial development increased in the Oregon Territory, mechanically-
powered vessels came into use. Though some vessels of all types were lost,
the economy and reliability of sea transportation outweighed the occassional
loss of a vessel, crew, and cargo.(11)
1.12 Vessels were wrecked with enough frequency that remnants of a
substantial number are still likely to be present along coastal areas. When
taken as a group, the remnants of these vessels probably constitute an
iirportant study collection. Vessels representing the broad range of types
used in exploration, trade, and corrmercial ventures may be present.
1.13 For example, the sample should be dominated by schooners engaged in
the historic development of the lumber industry and coastal trade from the
late 1850's through the 1920's. Vessels transporting lumber to the
California markets constituted a substantial portion of this trade. (12) As
the timber industry developed in the coastal range, Oregon ports also became
the center of a regional shipbuilding industry. In many circumstances, the
major lumber mills had their own shipbuilding facilities or provided the
industrial base that supported local ship construction.(13)
1.14 Exotic vessels may also be present. For instance, numerous derelict
Japanese junks have been reported grounded along the Pacific Northwest coast
since the early 1800's. These vessels, damaged along the Japanese
coastline, drifted on major ocean currents from Japan to the Northwest
coast. They have been reported as far as the west coast of Mexico. (14)
These vessels may be present along the coast, depending upon local
preservation conditions.
Shipwreck Location Model
1.15 In order to evaluate the potential of a particular project area for
shipwrecks, a general model of shipwreck distribution was developed. Using
the location of known shipwrecks the model assumes that similar conditions
in the past will account for the location of unrecorded wreck sites. This
information was then used to project the likely zones for wreck sites. For
the purposes of this study the projections were used to rank the project
area into high, medium, and low probability locations for wreck sites,
mapped on particular project maps, and then used to minimize project
impacts to likely areas (figure E-2).
1.16 In addition to identifying the locations of wreck sites based on a
literature search, the actual disposal sites were investigated using a side
scan sonar survey. Though side scan sonar surveys have been questioned
(15), the results of the survey for the QEMDS projects tend to support its
reliability within the limits of the project areas. For example, the sonar
surveys at the mouth of the Columbia River picked out numerous wreck
signatures and topographic features on the sea floor that indicate buried
wrecks.(16) In addition, wrecks were Ideated in sonar scans in some of the
coastal surveys undertaken for these projects. (17)
E - 4
-------
OREGON
COOOKLl
*ivi;*
SANO
DUNES
EiANOO^
«Ji3tfePT.
SCALE IN YARDS
0 IOOO
t t I I < ,L JL, \,1 I J
Figure E-2
Shipwreck Frequencies
E - 5
-------
1.17 One criticism of side scan sonar work is that its reliability is
limited to discernible three-dimensional features.(18) Older wrecks may
become indistinguishable to the side scan sonar as their wooden structures
decay and they become a distribution of artifacts on the sea floor. These
wrecks, important because they may represent older and rarer shipwreck
sites, may not be discovered by side scan sonar surveys. However, the
problem of identifying submerged wrecks on the Oregon coast may not be as
significant as this criticism suggests.
1.18 Research on the Oregon coast indicates that wreck sites probably will
be be restricted to the last 200 years, the frequency increasing from the
1850's into the early 1910's. Decay or obliteration of sane identifying
elements may not be a major problem. It is likely that hulls or buried
outlines of hulls or ballast will survive, in sufficient detail to define
wreck sites. More significantly, however, the literature search reveals
that the majority of wreck sites are probably located on beaches or in surf
zones and not in deep water areas. Though exceptions are possible, the
location of damaged vessels tends to be within shallow near-shore
environments or in the vicinity of shallowly submerged obstructions. Once
vessels are damaged and steering and power are lost, they become subject to
currents, waves, and winds. In the examples presented in this appendix,
vessels typically are damaged during the fall-winter-spring storm season
with prevailing on-shore winds. During these circumstances, vessels damaged
in near-shore environments are driven into surf zones or onto beaches.
Approximately 80 percent of the known wrecks at the mouth of the Columbia
River fall within this pattern. (19) Beaches and surf zones within the study
areas are the most likely locations for discovering historic era shipwrecks.
Preservation Settings
1.19 Preservation environments, including human factors, will affect the
survival of beached wrecks. Prehistoric Indians and early settlers and
salvors found wrecked vessels a source of exotic goods, hardware, building
materials, and wealth.(20,21) Wrecks exposed in near-shore environments or
on beaches are likely to have been exploited for their various values. In
contrast, wrecks in submerged locations, though exposed to other nonhuman
environmental factors, are likely to contain a higher frequency of artifacts
and more information depending on their state of preservation.
1.20 The following section of this appendix contains an evaluation of data
pertinent to the specific project area in terms of the two cultural resource
issues raised in the preceding discussion: 1) What is the potential for the
disposal location to contain early prehistoric sites, and 2) What are the
shipwreck conditions within the study area. This issue includes identifying
wreck sites and evaluating the results of the side scan surveys.
Coquille Project Site Evaluation
1.21 Early Prehistoric Site Review. The most speculative portion of this
appendix involves evaluating the disposal sites as a potential environment
that might contain early prehistoric sites. This evaluation is limited to
the late Wisconsinan glacial period exposures. The time-depth chart on page
E-2 indicates that the project area would have been an exposed land surface
E - 6
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between 10,000 and 20,000 years ago. That time frame is within the expected
range of the late Wisconsinan migration from Asia to the North American
continent and the probable time when these people may have migrated down
coastal areas.
1.22 The topographic setting (appendix B, figure B-5) and the distribution
of sediments suggest, however, that the preservation environment has been
substantially degraded since these surfaces were exposed ground surfaces.
The topographic setting indicates a relatively flat to minor slope extending
to the west. There are no bedrock exposures, remnants of headlands, or
indications of geological features that would have buffered a site from the
effects of wave energy as sea level rose. Rather, project topography
suggests an area where sediments contained in beaches and dunes would have
been substantially reworked and redeposited over the developing sea floor.
The sand/silt sediments present in the disposal site suggest that the
current geological situation is relatively stable.(22) However, the
currently accepted explanation for the presence of silts within the project
area is that they are from the movement of materials dredged from the
Coquille River and bar during recent historic times. Based on this
information, the project area does not seem a likely candidate for the
preservation of early prehistoric sites.
Historic Wrecks In The Coquille Study Area
1.23 Wrecks in the Coquille study area tend to occur in near-shore
environments (table E-l). Frequent sites of wrecks include the bar at the
mouth of the river with 5 wrecks, 25 percent; the north and south beaches
with 10 wrecks, 50 percent; and an area approximately one-half to one mile
outside the mouth of the river with 3 wrecks, 15 percent (figure E-3). The
north and south jetties account for 2 wrecks, or 10 percent. Though the
number of wrecks is relatively small, the percentage distributions support
the basic characteristics of wreck locations along the Oregon coast. The
highest frequency of wreck sites are within near-shore environments.
1.24 This wreck distribution reflects the late fall-winter-early spring
storm period when wrecks are the most frequent (figure E-4). During this
period the potential for navigational error or the consequences of damage to
vessels by wind and storms, and the frequent shifts in channels at the
mouths of rivers is magnified. Small errors have more significance than
they do during more settled weather periods. During this period the
characteristic on-shore winds tend to drive vessels damaged in near-shore
environments into surf zones and onto beaches.
1.25 Late fall, winter, and early spring seasons define the storm period
along the Oregon coast. Approximately 89 percent (16) of the wrecks from
1869 through 1953 occurred during this period. Of the late 18th-century
wrecks, 6 out of 7, or 86 percent, occurred during this period.
E - 7
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WRECK SITE LOCATIONS
CO
*
o
LU
CH
$
Ll
O
3
Z
B B 0 J AREA
A E F E
RAFT
C S T
H H Y
0
R
E
Figure E-3
Wreck Site Locations
E - 8
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SEASONALITY OF WRECKS
CO
8
mam
o
7_
UJ
01
6~
£
Ll.
5
o
4~
cc
UJ
3
00
2
2~
=3
r
W
I
N
T
E
R
(1881- 1953 )
S
P
R
I
N
G
Figure E-4
Seasonality of Wrecks
E - 9
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1.26 Hie above information indicates that documented wreck sites in the
historic period (1850-1917) occur primarily in near shore environments.
Hiis information is probably representative of the period before wreck
events (pre-1850) are well documented. It is likely that, if there were
wrecks in the Coquille area before 1850, they, too, will be found in the
surf zones and beaches south of the Coquille River.
Side Scan Sonar Results
1.27 No shipwreck signatures were documented by the side scan sonar survey.
The wrecks reported offshore were beyond the range of the survey. In
addition, no wrecks were anticipated within the disposal area as it was
located beyond the high probability zones.
E - 10
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Table E-l
Documented Wrecks in the Coquille Vicinity
Date
Name
(Type)
Wreck Site/*Grounding Site if Reported
Wreck
Cargo Location Reference
Dec 1869
(23)
3Mayl870
(24)
1876
(26)
16Janl877
(27)
Jan 1881
(28)
18Nbvl889
28Augl895
6Decl897
ALASKA
schooner
OCCIDENT
Barkentine
MARY SCHOWNER
QREGCNIAN
schooner
PRECURSOR
scow-
schooner
PARKERBURG
schooner
Coquille Bar Marshall 1982:42
Coquille Bar Marshall 1982:45
West 1952:417
Wright 1895 (25)
Coquille Bar Marshall 1982:45
*Coquille River Marshall 1982:46
beached 5
miles south
*Coquille R.
Mouth - south
beach, rocks
West 1952:418
Wright 1895:256
Powell 1881:2683
*Coquille River Marshall 1982:46
beached 1/4 mi
below entrance
BRAWNIYDRE general cargo *Coquille River Marshall 1982:43
steamer 15 miles south West 1984:63
M3RQ Coquille Bar Marshall 1892:45
schooner, gas
E - 11
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Date
Name
(Type)
Table E-l (cont'd.)
Cargo
Wreck
Location
Reference
30NOV1899 EUREKA
schooner
13Nbvl904 WESTERN HCME
schooner
1905 DEL NORTE
schooner, steam
25Febl905 CNWARD
schooner
*Coquille River Marshall 1982:44
north, beach
*Coquille Marshall 1982:44
north beach
Coquille Marshall 1982:44
offshore mouth
*Coquille Spit Marshall 1982:45
south beach
West 1984:61
29Janl916 FIFIELD
schooner, steam
15Aprl9l5
24Aprl915
15Junl917
310ctl924
23Febl927
RANDOLPH
schooner
ii
SINALQA
schooner, gas
ACME
*Coquille Bar Marshall 1982:44
south beach West 1952:417
Coquille Bar Marshall 1982:46
~vicinity of
Cape Blanco
100 tons Coquille Bar
schooner, steam railroad *beached
iron
West 1952:418
Marshall 1982:46
Marshall 1982:42
West 1984:59
lJanl936
MARY E. MDQRE
schooner, steam
E. L. SMITH
schooner, gas
Coquille River Marshall 1982:45
offshore in
vicinity of
Acme (1 mile)
*Rocks of
Coquille Bar
Marshall 1982:44
E - 12
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Date
Name
(Type)
Table E-l (cont'd.)
Cargo
29Marl936 GOLDEN
motor freighter
21Febl943 VMS #133
mine sweeper
3NOV1953 OLIVER OLSCN
Wreck
Location
Reference
*Coquille
north jetty
1/2 mile
offshore
*South jetty
incorporated
into jetty
Marshall 1982:45
Marshall 1982:46
Marshall 1982:45
E - 13
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LITERATURE CITED
(1) Butzer, Karl, 1971. Environment and Archaeology. Aldine Publishing
Company, Chicago, IL, p. 255.
(2) Fladmark, Knut, 1983. Times and Places: Environmental Correlates of
inan Human Population Expansion in North America. Early Man in the New
World, (ed) Richard Shutler, Jr. Sage Publication, Beverly Hills, CA..
(3) Baldwin, Ewart M. 1959. Geology of Oregon. Edward Brothers, Inc.,
Ann Arbor.
(4) Fladmark, 1983:26.
(5) Cressman, L.S. 1977. Prehistory of the Far West: Homes of Vanished
Peoples. University of Utah Press. Salt Lake City, UT, p. 47.
(6) Shepard, F.P. 1984. Sea level changes in the 6,000 years: Possible
archaeological significance. Science, nl43, pp 574-576.
(7) Blackwelder, R.W., O.H. Pilkey, and J.D. Howard, 1979. Late
Wisconsinan Sea Levels on the southeast United States, Atlantic shelf based
pn in place shoreline indicators. Science v204 pp 618-620.
(8) Cressman, 1977:49, pp 179-180.
(9) Muche, James F., 1978. An Inundated Aboriginal Site, Corral Beach,
California. Beneath the Waters of Time: Hie Proceedings of the Ninth
Conference on Underwater Archaeology, (ed) J. Barto Arnold III. Texas
Antiquities Committee, Austin, TX.
(10) U. S. Army Corps of Engineers, April 1985. Yaquina Bay Interim Ocean
Dredged Material Disposal Site Evaluation Study. Portland District,
Portland, OR. pp E-3.
(11) Roessler, S.W., Lt. Col., Corps of Engineers, 1903, Coquille River
Oregon. Letter from the Acting Secretary of War, 60th Congress, 1st session,
House of Representatives, Document No. 339, "List of Vessels Crossing the
bar at entrance to Coquille River, Oregon, during the year ending December
31, 1906", p. 3.
(12) Beckham, Stephen Dow, 1986. Land of the Ufoipqua. A History of Douglas
County, Oregon. Douglas County Carmissioners, Roseburg, OR. pp 198-199.
See also Johansen, Dorothy 0. and Charles M. Gates, 1957. Empire of the
Columbia. A History of the Pacific Northwest. Harper and Brothers. New
York, NY. p. 390.
(13) Beckham, 1986. p. 148.
E - 14
-------
(14) Brooks, Charles Wolcott, 1875. Report of Japanese Vessels Wrecked in
the North Pacific Ocean: From the Earliest Records to the Present Time.
Proceedings of the California Academy of Science, 6:50-66; cited in H. K.
Steele, 1981, Chinese Porcelains from Site 35-TI-l, Netarts Spit, Tillamook
County, Oregon. University of Oregon Anthropological Paper no. 23. p. 24.
(15) Clausen, Carl J. and J. Barto Arnold III, 1976. The Magnetometer and
Underwater archaeology. Magnetic delination of individual shipwreck sites,
a new control technique. International Juornal of Nautical Archaeology and
Underwater Exploration. 5(2):168.
(16) U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, March 1985. Geological and Seismic
Investigation of Columbia River Mouth Study Area. Report 14. Brooks,
Charles Wolcott, 1875. Report of Japanese Vessels Wrecked in the North
Pacific Ocean: From the Earliest Records to the Present Time. Proceedings of
the California Academy of Science, 6:50-66; cited in H.K. Beals and Harvey
Steele, 1981, Chinese Porcelains from site 35-TI-l, Netarts Spit, Tillamook
County, Oregon. University of Oregon Anthropological Paper no. 23. p. 24.
(17) U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Portland District, January 1985.
Geologic and Seismic Investigation of Oregon Offshore Disposal Sites, Earth
Science Associates, Palo Alto, California, and Geo. Recon. International,
Seattle, WA.
(18) Clausen and Arnold, 1976. p. 168.
(19) U. S. Army Corps of Engineers, March 1985.
(20) Parker, Rev. Samuel, 1967 (1838). Parker's Exploring Tour, Beyond the
Rocky Mountains. Ross and Haines, Minneapolis, MN. p. 151. As a source of
iron: Rickard, T.A., 1939. Use of Iron and Copper by the Indians of British
Columbia. British Columbia Historical Quarterly 4: p. 25-50. cited by
Barner, D.C., 1981. Shell and Archaeology: An Analysis of Shellfish
Procurement and Utilization on the Oregon Central Coast, unpub. M.A.
Thesis, Oregon State University; Drucker, Philip 1965. Cultures of the
North Pacific Coast. Chandler Publishing Catpany, San Francisco, CA.
(21) Douthit, Nathan, 1982. The Coos Bay Region, 1890-1944; Life on a
Coastal Frontier. River West Books, Coos Bay, OR. pp 27, 129-131.
(22) U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, January 1985. p. 25.
(23) Marshall, Don, 1982. Oregon Shipwrecks. Binford and Mort, Portland,
OR. pp. 42-46.
(24) West, Victor, 1952. Ships, Builders, Captains. A Century of Coos and
Curry. History of Southwest Oregon, by Emil Peterson and Alfred Powers
(Coos and Curry Pioneer and Historical Association). Binford and Mort,
Publishers, Portland, OR.
E - 15
-------
(25) West, Victor, 1984. A Guide to Shipwreck Sites Along the Oregon Coast
via Oregon U.S. 101. R.E. Well and Victor West, North Bend, OR.
(26) Marshall has a different location than West (24) and
Wright (27) who locate the wreck of the OCCIDENT at Coos Bay bar.
(27) Wright, E.W., 1895. Lewis and Dryden's Marine History of the Pacific
Northwest. The Lewis and Dryden Printing Company, Portland, OR.
(28) Powell, Charles, 1882. Improvement of Mouth of Coquille River Oregon.
In Annual Report of the Chief of Engineers, U.S. Army. VIII. Government
Printing Office, Washington, D.C.. pp 2674-2684.
E - 16
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APPENDIX F
COMMENTS AND COORDINATION
-------
APPENDIX F
CaVMENTS M® CCX3RDXNATICIN
TABLE OF CXWTElSrrS
Paragraph No
Page Mo.
1.01 Comments. .
1.03 Coordination
F-l
F-l
LETTERS
Concurrence Letter from Oregon Department of Land
Conservation and Development
Concurrence Letter from Oregon State Historic
Preservation Office
Concurrence Letters from National Marine Fisheries
Service and U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
-------
APPENDIX F
cayMEms and axMHNftncN
Corrments
1.01 The Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act of 1972 (MPRSA.)
requires that, for a site to receive a final QDMDS designation, the site
must satisfy the specific and general disposal site criteria set forth in 40
CFR 228.6 and 228.5, respectively. The final designation procedures also
require documentation of recommended disposal site compliance with MPRSA and
with the following laws:
National Environmental Policy Act of 1969,
Endangered Species Act of 1973 ,
National Historic Preservation Act of 1966, and the
Coastal Zone Management Act of 1972, all as amended.
1.02 The data provided in this document was compiled to satisfy these laws
and has been coordinated with appropriate and necessary State and Federal
agencies.
Coordination
1.03 The procedures used in this GEMDS final designation study have been
discussed with the following agencies:
Oregon Department of Fish and Wildlife
Oregon Department of Environmental Quality
U.S. Coast Guard
Oregon Division of State Lands
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
National Marine Fisheries Service, and
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency.
1.04 Following completion of a preliminary draft of this document, statements
of consistency or concurrence were sought regarding three State or Federal
laws. The statutes and responsible agencies are:
Coastal Zone Management Act of
1972, as amended
National Historic Preservation
Act of 1966, as amended
Endangered Species Act of 1973,
as amended
Oregon Department of Land
Conservation and Development
Oregon State Historic
Preservation Officer
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
National Marine Fisheries Service
1.05 Consistency or concurrence letters from these agencies follow.
State water quality certifications, as required by Section 401 of the
Clean Water Act, will be obtained for individual dredging actions.
F - 1
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Department of Land Conservation and Development
1175 COURT STREET NE, SALEM, OREGON 97310-0590 PHONE (503) 378-4926
September 18, 1987
A. J. Heineman, Chief
Planning Division
Corps of Engineers
P.O. Box 2946
Portland, Oregon 97208-2946
Dear Mr. Heineman:
Thank you for your letter requesting our concurrence that
the Ocean Disposal Site Evaluation for the Coquille River
navigation project is consistent with the Oregon Coastal
Management Program.
My staff has reviewed the findings included in the draft
document. The findings appropriately indicate that the most
applicable mandatory enforceable policy in the Oregon
Coastal Program is Goal 19, the Ocean Resources Goal. The
findings conclude that the EPA Ocean Dumping Regulations
meet Goal 19's inventory and impact assessment requirements.
The Corps' evaluation indicates that the extent of rock
exposures and proximity to reef shoals at the existing
interim disposal site present both a hazard to the hopper
dredges and potential for adverse environmental impacts.
The report recommends designation of a new site north of the
existing interim site. The new site contains fine sand
almost exclusively. The sediment transport section of the
evaluation indicates that use of the shallow end of the new
site j.;i early summer might allow n-aterial to be transported
back toward the Coquille River entrance channel. The
section included a recommendation that use of the proposed
new site be contingent upon preparation of a disposal
monitoring plan.
The Corps' findings indicate that the project is consistent
with Goal 19's requirement that sites for the open sea
discharge of dredged material, not substantially interfere
with or detract from the use of the continental shelf for
fishing, navigation, or recreation, or from the long-term
protection of renewable resources.
In conclusion, the Department concurs that the project is
consistent with the Oregon Coastal Management Program
provided the site is monitored to ensure that dredge
material is not transported back toward the Coquille River
or
K->»
(859,-
Nfc'll. G'Ol QSCHMIDT
GOvtHHOH
F - 2
-------
A. J. Heineman
-2-
September 18, 1987
entrance channel. Thank you for the opportunity to comment
on the project. Please contact Patricia Snow of my staff if
you have any further questions.
Sincerely, .
o Tvi -2
James) F. Ross
D irector
JFR:PS/sp
cc: Glen Hale
-------
#¦
NEIL GOLDSCMMIOT
GOVEHNOR
Department of Transportation
STATE HISTORIC PRESERVATION OFFICE
Parks and Recreation Division
525 TRADE STREET SE, SALEM, OREGON 97310
October 26, 1987
Bernard M. Bishop
Natural Resources Branch
Portland District Corp of Engineers
PO Box 2946
Portland, OR 97208-2946
RE: Coquille River and Bar
Off-shore Ocean Disposal Site
Coos County
Dear Mr. Bishop:
Our office has reviewed the proposed project in T28S, R15W,
Sec. 24 and the disposal site in T28S, R15W, Sec. 24 as a
proposed permanent off-shore ocean disposal site for
materials dredged from the Coquille River and bar. Since
this area has been surveyed by site scan sonar and does not
fit the historic shipwreck model, our office concurs that
the proposed project would have no effect on any sites on or
eligible for inclusion on the National Register of Historic
Places.
If you /have /any questions you can contact our staff
archeologist\Dr. Leland Gilsen at 378-5023,
/Powers, ^Deputy
[istoric Preservation Officer
DWP:j n "
BISHOP.DOC
73410-807
F - 4
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UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE
Environmental & Technical Services Division
847 N.E. 19th Avenue, Suite 350
Portland, Oregon 97232-2279
230-5400
February 6, 1985
F/NWR5-359:AG
Richard N. Duncan
Chief, Fish and Wildlife Branch
Portland District Corps of Engineers
P.O. Box 2946
Portland, Oregon 97208
Dear Mr. Qurfcan: }2cL
This letter is in response to your requestof January 17, 1985 for lists
of threatened and endangered species under jurisdiction of the National Marine
Fisheries Service (NMFS) that may be present in various offshore dredge
disposal sites in Oregon.
The only listed species likely to occur in the areas you have designated
is the gray whale, Eschrichtius robustus.
Si ncerely,
Dale R. Evans
Division Chief
-------
United Slates Department of the Interior
HSU AND Wil l)] JFK SKRVICE
Portland Field Office
727 NE 24th Avenue
Portland, OR 97232
May 1. 1987
1 7 07 SP - iulversely affected by the project, The Corps of Engineers should request
forum! Section 7 consultation through this office. Even if your biological
assessment shows a "no effect" or "beneficial effect" situation, we would
appreciate receiving a copy for our information.
Your interest in endangered species is appreciated. If you have any
additional questions regarding your responsibilities under the Act, please
call David M. Sill at our office, phone (503) 231-6179 or FTS 429-6179. Ail
Correspondence should include the above referenced case number.
S i ncere1y,
Kusscll D. Peterson
Field Supervisor
Attachments
R1 FWE-SE
m>-Ks
ODFW (Norgajne)
0NIIJ'
5SP-92:05/01/87
It I: O Li i V V. f)
r.'/'.Y 103/
niiGULAVOiVY BR.
F- 6
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Attachment A
LISTED AND PROPOSED ENDANGERED AND THREATENED SPECIES AND
CANDIDATE SPECIES THAT MAY OCCUR IN THE AREA OF THE PROPOSED
DREDOED MATERIAT, DISPOSAL SITES LOCATED OFFSHORE OF THE
UMPQIJA. CIIETCO. COQlJiU.K. AND ROGUE RIVER ESTUARIES
STATE OF OREGON
1 -7-8-7-SP-92
I, i s*n;n...species-
Ilrowir Pi! ] i can Iccnnus occidental is (E)
PROPOSED SPECIES
None
CANDI DATE
Noun
(f) - Fndangererl (T) - Threatened (CM) - Critical Habitat
iJ S. Department of Interior. Fish and Wildlife Service. Jan 1986. Endangered and Threatened
Wildlife and Plants, 50 CFR 17.11 and 17.12. .
F - 7
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October 15, 1987
Planning Division (CENPP-PL-F)
Mr. Roland Schmitten
Regional Director
National Marine Fisheries Service
7600 Sand Point Way NE
BIN C15700
Seattle, Washington 98115
Dear Mr. Schmitten:
Pursuant to the Endangered Species Act, we are forwarding a biological
assessment for gray whales at the Coquille River Entrance Offshore Disposal
Area. This assessment is in response to your Feb. 6, 1985, listing of this
species for the project. We contacted Mr. Joe Scordino of your Northwest
Regional staff on October 14, 198 7, to determine if the 1985 listing was
still valid. He noted that the list should be updated to include humpback,
fin, blue, Sei, and sperm whales, although these species apparently occur in
very limited numbers along the Oregon coast.
The listing we received on Feb. 6, 1985, also covered designation of
offshore disposal areas for Tillamook Bay Entrance, Depoe Bay, Siuslaw River
Entrance, Port Orford, and Rogue River Entrances. We have not completed
biological assessments for these projects; therefore, we request an updated
list for these sites. We anticipate that the species listed for these
projects will be the same as for Coquille River Entrance. It is also
anticipated that our biological assessment will be no different as we are
unaware of additional information and the projects are virtually identical.
Thus, we request that you consider the biological assessment prepared for
Coquille River Entrance as applicable to the offshore disposal locations
listed above and thus, complete.the coordination required for these projects
under the auspices of the Endangered Species Act.
Your consideration of these matters is greatly appreciated.
Sincerely,
Richard N. Duncan
Chief, Fish and Wildlife Branch
Enclosure
F - 8
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NOV I 2 1987
UNITED STATES DEPARTMENT OF COMMERCE
National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration
NATIONAL MARINE FISHERIES SERVICE
Northwest Region
7600 Sand Point Way NE
BIN C15700, Bldg. 1
Seattle, WA 98115
Mr. Richard N. Duncan
Chief, Fish and Wildlife Branch
Department of the Army
Portland District Corps of Engineers
P.O. Box 2946
Portland, OR 97208
F/NWR3:1514-04 js
Dear Mr. Duncan:
This is in response to your October 15, 1987 letter regarding an Endangered
Species Act biological assessment for the gray whale and other whales at the
Coquille River Offshore Dredged Material Disposal Site. We have reviewed the
biological assessment and concur with your determination that populations of
endangered/threatened species under our purview are not likely to be adversely
affected by the proposed action offshore of the Coquille River Entrance.
In regards to an updated list of endangered/threatened species for the other
five offshore disposal areas noted in your letter, the original list of eight
species sent to you in 1985 would still apply as no new species have been
added. Although the species addressed in your Coquille River site assessment
would also apply to the other five areas, we cannot consider it as a
biological assessment for other sites because additional specific information
must be included for each site. The additional information needed in the
biological assessments for the other sites would include a site map, a project
description, and an assessment of any unique aspects of the site in regards to
endangered species. Die project description portion of the assessment should
include the seasonal timing and frequency of the disposal activity, the
composition of the dredge material, the amount of material to be deposited
(both during the season and during each dredging), and the water
depths/location offshore of the disposal site.
This concludes consultation responsibilities under Section 7 of the ESA for
the Coquille River Disposal Site. However, consultation should be reinitiated
if new information reveals impacts of the dredge disposal activity that may
adversely affect listed species or their critical habitat, a new species is
listed, critical habitat is identified that may be affected by the activity,
or the identified activity is subsequently modified. If you have any new
information or questions concerning this consultation, please contact Joe
Sconlino at FTS 392-6140.
Sincerely,
4$
/l /
Roll and A. Schmitten
egional Director
F - 9
—r<>
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