Alaska
United Stales Region 10, WD-126 Idaho
Environmental Protection 1200 Sixth Avenue Oregon
Agency Seattle WA 98101 Washington
June 1993
&EPA Environmental Assessment
Deep Sea Fisheries Shore Plant
and Cumulative Effects of
Seafood Processing Activities in
Akutan Harbor, Alaska
wffl&mWmm
I $
I V % .v |
••'•x:;:'-' . x:x:::x;x:
mm&m
mmmm
-------
ENVIRONMENTAL ASSESSMENT
Deep Sea Fisheries Shore Plant
and Cumulative Effects
of Seafood Processing Activities
in Akutan Harbor, Alaska
Prepared by:
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Region 10
1200 Sixth Avenue
Seattle, WA 98101
In association with:
Jones & Stokes Associates, Inc.
2820 Northup Way, Suite 100
Bellevue, WA 98004
(206) 822-1077
¦efcsiton Agcssy oap.; h
JArt 2 4 2300
) Mis, sitGt
June 1993
U S EPA LIBRARY REGION 10 MATERIALS
RXDD
~S7T7D
-------
This document should be cited as:
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 10. 1993. Deep Sea Fisheries shore plant
and cumulative effects of seafood processing activities in Akutan Harbor, Alaska.
Environmental assessment. June. (JSA 92-228.) Seattle, WA. In association with
Jones & Stokes Associates, Inc., Bellevue, WA.
-------
Table of Contents
Page
List of Acronyms . . viii
Glossary x
Executive Summary 1
Environmental Assessment 2
INTRODUCTION 2
Proposed Action - 2
PROJECT DESCRIPTION 2
Existing Facilities 2
Proposed Facilities 6
Waste Streams 9
Solid Waste Accumulation 17
EXISTING ENVIRONMENT 18
Climate and Air Quality 18
Topography 18
Bathymetry 18
General Overview of Physical Processes 19
Modeling Wind-Driven Circulation 23
Water Quality 28
Water Quality Profiles 28
Discrete Water Samples 33
Existing Seafood Waste Deposits 37
Historical Information 37
Results of Side-Scan Sonar Surveys in 1992 39
Marine Benthic Environments 41
Pelagic and Surface Environments 50
Intertidal and Shallow Subtidal Environments 52
Physical Conditions and Habitats 53
Epibenthic Communities 56
Infauna Communities 58
Hydrocarbon Analysis 58
Freshwater Environments 60
Terrestrial Environments 60
Soils 60
Vegetation 60
Wildlife 62
-------
Threatened and Endangered Species 62
Land Use 63
Socioeconomics 64
Public Services 64
Archaeological and Cultural Resources 64
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS OF THE PROPOSED ACTION 65
Construction Phase Impacts 65
Air Quality and Noise 65
Water Quality 65
Marine Pelagic Environments 66
Intertidal Environments 67
Terrestrial Environments 67
Operational Impacts 67
Air Quality and Noise 68
Water Quality 68
Intertidal Environments 76
Marine Benthic Environments 76
Marine Pelagic Environments 82
Freshwater Environments 83
Terrestrial Environments 83
Threatened and Endangered Species 83
Land Use 83
Socioeconomics 83
Public Services 84
CUMULATIVE IMPACTS 84
Air Quality and Noise 84
Water Quality 86
Intertidal Environments 90
Marine Benthic Environments 90
Marine Pelagic Environments 92
Terrestrial Environments 93
Threatened and Endangered Species 93
Land Use 93
Socioeconomics 93
Public Services 93
ALTERNATIVES AND THEIR ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS 94
Operational Alternatives 94
No Action Alternative: NPDES Permit Not Issued 94
Discharge Alternatives 95
Alternative Discharge of Bailwater ; 95
Stickwater Recycling 96
Outfall Location Alternatives 98
BOD5 Effluent Limitations 107
Barging of Crab Wastes for Ocean Disposal 109
Disposal of Crab Wastes at a Landfill 110
Incineration of Crab Wastes Ill
ii
-------
Processing of Crab Wastes to Produce Chitin and Chitosan . .
Converting Solid Crab Waste to Crab Meal or Fish/Crab Meal
111
112
113
113
115
CITATIONS
Printed References ....
Personal Communications
Appendix A
Appendix B
Appendix C
Appendix D
Appendix E
Appendix F
Appendix G
Appendix H
Appendix I
Appendix J
Appendix K
Appendix L
Appendix M
Chronological Report of Field Studies Conducted in Akutan
Harbor, April 1992
Circulation Modeling
Current Meter Data Supplied by Evans-Hamilton, Inc.
Mathematical Basis for Numerical Simulation Model for
Akutan Harbor
Program Code for Akutan Harbor Model
Quantity of Crab Processed in Akutan Harbor
Side-Scan Sonar Survey
Qualitative Characterization of Sediments in Akutan Harbor
Species Checklist and Individual Counts of Benthic Species
Found in Akutan Harbor, April 1992
Underwater Video Information
Results of Plume Modeling
Results of Dispersion Modeling
Cumulative Impacts of Seafood Processing on Dissolved Oxygen in Akutan
Harbor, Alaska
in
-------
List of Tables
Table Page
1 Estimated Daily Flow and BODs Loading of Wastes Discharged from
Deep Sea Fisheries at Maximum-Rated Production Capacity 11
2 Maximum Seasonal Production and Associated BOD5 Loading for
Deep Sea Fisheries Proposed Discharge 13
3 Average Current Velocities Recorded by Three Current Meters
Located in Akutan Harbor 22
4 Annual Crab Landings in Akutan Harbor between 1987 and 1992 29
5 Water Quality Data Collected during Hydrocast Surveys of Akutan
Harbor 1992 32
6 Surface and Near-Bottom Water Quality Parameters Measured in
Akutan Harbor, April 1992 J 35
7 Fecal Coliform, Total Coliform, and BOD5 Data Collected from
Akutan Harbor, April 1992 38
8 Sediment Quality Parameters for Akutan Harbor, April 1992 44
9 Shannon-Wiener Diversity Indices, Number of Species, and Number
of Individual Polychaetes Found in Akutan Harbor, 1983 and 1992 48
10 Beach Sediment Grain Size Distribution by Percent Weight from
Samples Taken at the Head of Akutan Harbor 57
11 Total Petroleum Hydrocarbon Levels Found at Intertidal Sediment
Sampling Stations in 1992, Akutan Harbor, Alaska 59
12 Assumptions Used to Model Winter Discharges from Deep Sea
Fisheries' Proposed Outfall 70
13 Assumptions Used to Model Summer Discharges from Deep Sea
Fisheries' Proposed Outfall 73
14 Violations of Water Quality Standards in Any of 30 Scenarios 89
iv
-------
15 Potential for Water Quality Violations at the Proposed and
Alternative Sites for Deep Sea Fisheries 104
16 Effect of the BOD5 Limitation Alternative on Daily Production of
Pollock at Deep Sea Fisheries Proposed Shore-Based Facility 108
v
-------
List of Figures
Figure Page
1 Location of Akutan Harbor, Alaska 3
2 Proposed Location of Deep Sea Fisheries Shore-Based Seafood
Processing Facility in Akutan Harbor, Alaska 4
3 Site Plan for Deep Sea Fisheries' Proposed Shore-Based Processing
Plant 7
4 Proposed Water Flow 10
5 Wind Roses Depicting Quarterly Summaries of Wind Direction and
Magnitude in Akutan Harbor, Alaska, January to December 1992 20
6 Location of Current Meter Deployment in Akutan Harbor, Alaska,
April - June 1992 21
7 Predicted Circulation Pattern in Akutan Harbor, Alaska, 4 Hours
after the Onset of a 20 m/s East Wind 24
8 Predicted Circulation Pattern in Akutan Harbor, Alaska, 4 Hours
after the Onset of a 20 m/s West Wind 25
9 Predicted Circulation Pattern in Akutan Harbor, Alaska, 32 Hours
after the Onset of a 5 m/s East Wind 26
10 Predicted Circulation Pattern in Akutan Harbor, Alaska, 32 Hours
after the Onset of a 5 m/s West Wind 27
11 Location of Water Quality Profile Stations in 1992, Akutan Harbor,
Alaska 30
12 Typical Water Quality Profiles of Akutan Harbor, April 1992 31
13 Location of Water Quality Sampling Stations in 1992, Akutan
Harbor, Alaska 34
14 Locations of Benthic Samples Collected to Evaluate Side-Scan Sonar
Surveys in 1992, Akutan Harbor, Alaska 40
vi
-------
15 Location of Sediment Sampling Stations in 1992, Akutan Harbor,
Alaska 42
16 Location of Benthic Biological Community Sampling Stations in 1992,
Akutan Harbor, Alaska 46
17 Comparison of Number of Individuals, Number of Species, and
Shannon-Wiener Diversity Indices for Polychaetes Found in Akutan
Harbor, Alaska 49
18 Locations of Remotely Operated Vehicle Survey Transects in 1992,
Akutan Harbor, Alaska 51
19 Location of Intertidal and Shallow Subtidal Survey Transects in 1992,
Akutan Harbor, Alaska 54
20 Location of Intertidal Sediment Sampling Stations in 1992, Akutan
Harbor, Alaska 55
21 Location of Stream Flow Measurement Stations and Associated
Discharge Levels Found in April 1992, Akutan Harbor, Alaska 61
22 Predicted Dissolved Oxygen Concentration in Surface Waters of
Akutan Harbor Based on WASP Model Simulations for the Proposed
and Alternative Outfall Sites 75
23 Estimated Crab Waste Pile Volume Assuming Annual Waste
Discharges of 2,450 mt with 10% and 25% Annual Pile Retention 78
24 Calculated Depth and Area of Crab Waste Discharges Assuming
Annual Discharges of 2,450 mt of Waste Annually and a 10% Annual
Retention 79
25 Calculated Depth and Area of Crab Waste Discharges Assuming
Annual Discharges of 2,450 mt of Waste Annually and a 25% Annual
Retention 80
26 Annual Crab Landings and Approximate Annual Crab Waste
Discharge in Akutan Harbor, 1987-1992 85
27 Illustration of Tracer Displacement when a Vector Reaches a
Threshold Magnitude of 70 Meters 100
28 Approximate Location of the Proposed and Three Alternative
Locations for the Deep Sea Fisheries Outfall 101
vii
-------
List of Acronyms
ADT:
Alaska Daylight Time
BOD:
biological oxygen demand; see glossary
BOD5:
5-day biological oxygen demand; see glossary
cfs:
cubic feet per second
cm:
centimeter
cm/s:
centimeter per second
Corps:
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
DMRs:
discharge monitoring reports
DO:
dissolved oxygen
EA:
environmental assessment
EHI:
Evans-Hamilton, Inc.
EPA:
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
FONSI:
Finding of No Significant Impact
ft:
foot
gal:
gallon
GIS:
Geographic Information System
gpd:
gallons per day
GPS:
geographical positioning system
hr:
hour
IDOD:
immediate dissolved oxygen demand
in:
inch
kg:
kilogram
km:
kilometer
kW:
kilowatt
1:
liter
lbs:
pounds
m:
meter
m2:
square meter
m3:
cubic meter
m/s:
meter per second
m2/s:
square meter per second
m3/s:
cubic meter per second
mg/1:
milligram per liter
ml:
milliliter
MLLW:
mean lower low water
mm:
millimeter
MR4:
Motorola Miniranger IV
mt:
metric ton
M/V:
marine vessel
Mg/g:
microgram per gram
viii
-------
Ms/cm: microsiemen per centimeter
NEPA: National Environmental Policy Act
N-N: nitrate + nitrite nitrogen
NPDES: National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System
QA/QC: quality assurance/quality control
ROV: remotely operated vehicle
SAIC: Scientific Applications International Corporation
SPCC: Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasure
SSS: side-scan sonar
t: ton
TKN: total Kjeldahl nitrogen
TOC: total organic carbon
UM: Updated Merge
LX
-------
Glossary
Anoxia:
Bailwater:
BOD:
BOD,:
Conditions in which there is an abnormally low amount of oxygen.
Water pumped from the holds of fishing vessels during the fish
unloading process.
Biological oxygen demand. The oxygen utilized by microorganisms
in nutrient-rich water; often measured over a period of 5 days (see
BOD5).
Five day biological oxygen demand. The oxygen utilized by
microorganisms in nutrient-rich water over a period of 5 days.
Coefficient of Eddy The exchange coefficient for the diffusion of a substance by eddies
Diffusivity:
in a turbulent flow.
Depth-Averaged The total transport of water across a grid boundary in a computer
Velocity: model divided by the water depth at the grid boundary.
Fecal Coliforms: Bacteria found in the intestines of humans and animals that are
used as indicators of the degree of sewage contamination in a body
of water.
Maximum-Rated Production scenarios based on the maximum throughput of
Capacity:
Maximum Seasonal
Production:
Overlap Depth:
processing equipment.
Production scenario based on 1992 crab production and annual
production estimates. Seasonal production is assumed to mimic that
of Trident Seafoods.
In computer modeling, the depth at which the plume element can
no longer be consistently defined due to geometric constraints of the
PLUMES model. This condition has been associated with anvil-
shaped plumes.
Plume Centerline: The physical center of the discharge plume.
Presswater:
Waste liquor, which still contains solids and light oils, produced in
dehydrating fish meal. After solids and oils are removed, the
remaining liquor is termed stickwater.
x
-------
Process Water:
A mix of fresh and marine waters used to process fish.
Richardson Number:
Scrubber Water:
Seiche:
Sigma t:
Stickwater:
Velocity Shear:
A comparison of the stabilizing forces of the density stratification to
the destabilizing forces of the velocity shear. The larger the value
of the Richardson number, the higher the resistance of a fluid
medium to vertical mixing. The mathematical definition of the
Richardson number is included in Appendix B. See Velocity Shear.
Seawater spray used as an odor control measure for fish meal
process emissions.
A local, periodic rise or fall of water level.
A measure of water density determined primarily by the water's
salinity and temperature. Density is generally expressed as grams
per cubic centimeter. Sigma t = 1000 x (density - 1).
Waste liquor produced during fish meal processing. See Presswater.
The rate of change in the speed of currents with changes in water
depth. The velocity shear is larger at the boundary of two layers
with greatly different velocities.
XI
-------
Executive Summary
-------
Executive Summary
Deep Sea Fisheries, Inc., is proposing to build a shore-based crab and finfish
processing facility in Akutan Harbor (Akutan Island, Alaska). Deep Sea Fisheries has
applied for the issuance, by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), of a National
Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit. EPA has determined that this
action is subject to the provisions of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) under
40 CFR Part 122.29 and 40 CFR Part 6, Subpart F. Pursuant to NEPA, this environmental
assessment (EA) will provide the basis for EPA's decision on whether to issue a Finding of
No Significant Impact (FONSI) or require the preparation of an environmental impact
statement on the proposed action. Because of the high level of seafood processing activity
presently occurring in the harbor, this EA includes an extensive analysis of potential
cumulative impacts associated with seafood processing activities in the harbor. As part of
this analysis, oceanographic and biological field studies were conducted in Akutan Harbor
during April 1992.
The 1992 field studies indicated that there has been a cumulative effect from seafood
processing waste discharges in Akutan Harbor. Between 1983 and 1992, the concentration
of total organic carbon in sediments; the abundance, species composition, and diversity of
benthic communities; and the area impacted by waste piles generated by existing seafood
activities in the harbor have all increased. Although these changes are not considered
significant impacts at this time, they do indicate that Akutan Harbor could be at risk.
The EA evaluates Deep Sea Fisheries' proposed action based on its annual estimated
production, maximum-rated daily production capacity, historical production records, and
potential maximum seasonal production. Three computer simulation models were used to
evaluate potential water quality impacts (dissolved oxygen violations) from the proposed
action, alternatives to the proposed action (outfall locations), and cumulative seafood
processing in the harbor. The results of the PLUMES model indicated that there is a
potential for Deep Sea Fisheries to impact water quality during peak summer processing
periods. No impacts were indicated during the winter processing season. The circulation
model and the WASP model also demonstrated that there is a potential for water quality
impacts from the proposed action during the peak summer processing periods. In addition,
these two models indicated the potential for cumulative impacts from the combined
discharges of Deep Sea Fisheries' proposed facility and other seafood waste dischargers in
the harbor.
1
-------
Environmental Assessment
-------
Environmental Assessment
INTRODUCTION
Proposed Action
The proposed action is the issuance by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
(EPA) of a National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit to Deep Sea
Fisheries, Inc. The NPDES permit would authorize, subject to its stated effluent limitations,
conditions, and monitoring requirements, the discharge of seafood processing and sanitary
wastewater from a land-based seafood processing plant owned by Deep Sea Fisheries to
Akutan Harbor, Alaska. EPA has determined that this action is subject to the provisions
of the National Environmental Policy Act (NEPA) under 40 CFR Part 122.29 and 40 CFR
Part 6, Subpart F. Pursuant to NEPA, this environmental assessment (EA) will provide the
basis for EPA's decision on whether to issue a Finding of No Significant Impact (FONSI)
or require preparation of an environmental impact statement for the proposed action.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
Deep Sea Fisheries is proposing to build a shore-based crab and finfish processing
facility on Akutan Island, Alaska (Figure 1). The proposed location for the facility is on the
south shore of Akutan Harbor, between the abandoned whaling station and the head of the
harbor (Figure 2).
Existing Facilities
Deep Sea Fisheries began crab and finfish processing operations in Akutan Harbor
in 1975. Its existing facilities, the floating processor marine vessel (M/V) Deep Sea, the
refrigeration barge TNT, and the support vessel M/V Hemlock, have been located along
the south shore of Akutan Harbor (northwest of the abandoned whaling station) since 1979
(see Figure 2). The M/V Deep Sea is anchored at the stern and bow and discharges waste
through an outfall located just below the water surface.
The existing facilities have primarily produced sectioned king crab (Paralithodes
camtschatica), Tanner crab (Chionoecetes bairdi and C. opilio), and glazed bottomfish. Crab
2
-------
-------
-p.
-------
waste, the primary component of the effluent, has been ground to 0.5 inch (in), or
1.27 centimeters (cm), diameter and discharged to Akutan Harbor. Discharges associated
with the bottomfish glazing process have been minimal, and have consisted primarily of
washwater and bailwater (water pumped from the hold of the vessels). Deep Sea Fisheries'
peak processing period has been between November and May (during the crabbing season).
During the 1991/1992 crabbing season, Deep Sea Fisheries discharged an estimated 655 tons
(t) or 594 metric tons (mt) of ground crab waste to the harbor.
Under the last individual NPDES permit issued to the M/V Deep Sea
(AK-002904-1), the total permitted seafood discharge was 540,000 pounds (lbs), or 245 mt
per month. This individual permit expired in March 1991. Deep Sea Fisheries is currently
operating under the general NPDES permit for Akutan Harbor recently reissued by EPA
(September 1989) which allows floating processors operating in the harbor to discharge up
to 310,000 lbs (140,613 kilograms [kg]) of seafood waste solids per month.
The existing facility normally employs approximately 45 people during the peak of
the crab processing season; however, there were about 90 employees during the 1991/1992
crab season. The employees are housed and fed on the three vessels. Sanitary wastes from
the vessels are treated with approved marine sanitary devices (primary treatment with
chlorination). In addition to the seafood processing and sanitary wastes identified above,
other wastes discharged from the facility include cooling water, boiler water, freshwater
pressure relief, refrigeration condensate, bailwater, and live-tank water. Solid refuse is
either transported to a private landfill or incinerated on shore.
In addition to Deep Sea Fisheries, there are a number of other seafood processors
operating in Akutan Harbor. Trident Seafoods Corporation currently operates a shore-
based seafood processing plant on the north shore of the harbor, just west of the village of
Akutan. The Trident Seafoods facility consists of a crab processing plant, a fish processing
line, a surimi line, and a fish meal plant.
A number of floating processors also operate in Akutan Harbor seasonally. Under
the general NPDES permit, these floating processors may operate east of longitude 165 °46'
in the harbor and discharge up to 310,000 lbs (140,613 kg) of seafood waste solids per
month. The number of floating processors operating in the harbor varies seasonally and
annually, with the peak number of floating processors in the harbor during the crab and
early pollock (Theragra chalcogramma) seasons (November to about May) and a lesser
number during the second pollock season (beginning in June and lasting until the quota is
reached). The number of floating processors has increased since the reissuance of the
general NPDES permit for Akutan Harbor, particularly during the winters of 1990/1991 and
1991/1992. During the winter of 1990/1991, a total of 14 floating processors operated in
the harbor (4 crab processors and 10 finfish processors). Eighteen floating processors
(9 crab processors and 9 finfish processors) reportedly operated in the harbor during the
winter of 1991/1992 (Griffin, Cronauer pers. comms.).
5
-------
Proposed Facilities
Deep Sea Fisheries has applied for an individual NPDES permit for discharge of
wastewater from a proposed shore-based seafood processing plant in Akutan Harbor. The
proposed site lies on the south shore of the harbor, between the abandoned whaling station
and the head of the harbor (Figure 2). The shore-based facilities are expected to replace
the existing floating processor which Deep Sea Fisheries currently operates in the harbor.
During periods of peak operation, the new facility is expected to employ approximately
200 people.
The proposed facility site will encompass approximately 23.4 acres and will include
crab and finfish processing buildings, a fish meal plant, a cold storage building, a dry storage
area, a powerhouse, a machine shop, an incinerator, offices, employee housing, food
services, and recreational facilities (Figure 3). In addition to processing activities, the facility
will provide support for the fishing fleet (fuel, supplies, and gear storage).
Deep Sea Fisheries conducted an extensive siting evaluation for the proposed facility
(Reid Middleton 1991). Based on economics, land availability, and location in relation to
the fishery, Deep Sea Fisheries concluded that there were no reasonable alternatives to the
proposed site in Akutan Harbor.
The proposed site is composed of a steep, rocky shoreline and will require extensive
excavation and filling to meet the area requirements for the facility. The construction plan
calls for the removal of 672,000 cubic yards (513,778 cubic meters [m3]) of earth from the
hillside which will be used to create an 18-acre aquatic fill. The fill will eliminate
2,400 lineal feet, or 732 meters (m), of intertidal and subtidal habitat to an average depth
of -25 feet (ft), -7.6 m, mean lower low water (MLLW).
Deep Sea Fisheries proposes to use a combination of sheet pile and riprap to contain
the fill. Riprap with a slope of 1.5:1 (horizontal to vertical) will be used across most of the
face of the wharf. Sheet pile will be used along the face of the crab processing building (the
landed TNT barge) only. Berthing space will be provided by installing 27 piers between the
crab processing building and the western boundary of the facility. These piers will have
pilings approximately every 12 ft along their length.
Electrical power for the facility will be supplied by up to four 2,000-kilowatt (kW)
diesel generators producing up to 8,000 kW of power. Approximately 1.5 million gallons
(5.7 million liters) of diesel fuel will be stored in new storage tanks located within a bermed
containment basin. In addition to supplying fuel for the generators, the diesel fuel will be
used to fuel the fishing vessels associated with the operation. In all, Deep Sea Fisheries
estimates that approximately 10 million gallons (38 million liters) of diesel fuel will either
be consumed at the facility (3.5 million gallons) or used to fuel the fleet (6.5 million gallons)
each year. Fish oil (recovered from the fish meal process) will be used in combination with
diesel to fuel the generators, as well as to fuel the boilers in the meal plant.
6
-------
-J
±2000'
±10CM
Existing Tanks
Note: Center of harbor is approximately 1300' from
proposed bulkhead and riprap.
Proposed Tanks'
Figure 3. Site Plan for Deep Sea Fisheries' Proposed Shore-Based Processing Plant (Eastern Portion)
-------
oo
(.±100' 1 ±2000*
Figure 3 (continued). Site Plan for Deep Sea Fisheries' Proposed Shore-Based Processing Plant
(Western Portion)
-------
Both fresh water and saltwater will be required for processing operations. A
proposed water flow diagram is presented in Figure 4. The estimated total fresh water
required for operations at capacity is 720,000 gallons per day (gpd) (2.73 million liters).
Deep Sea Fisheries proposes to obtain fresh water from a previously impounded stream
near the site and chlorinate it prior to use. Deep Sea Fisheries is presently trying to obtain
water rights to a second previously impounded stream adjacent to its existing water source.
A 150,000-gallon (gal), or 567,812-liter (1), freshwater tank will provide onsite storage.
Saltwater requirements at capacity are estimated to be about 10 million gpd (38 million
liters). Saltwater will be pumped from Akutan Harbor. Saltwater used in processing
operations will be chlorinated.
Deep Sea Fisheries is proposing to process several species of crab, pollock, cod,
halibut (Hippoglossus stenolepis), and salmon at its proposed facility. The approximate
annual raw quantities and method of processing include (in round weights):
® Tanner and king crab (sectioned): 9,000 t (8,165 mt),
o cod (filleted): 2,000 t (1,814 mt),
• pollock (filleted): 24,000 t (21,772 mt),
* halibut (headed/gutted): 100 t (91 mt),
® salmon (headed/gutted): 500 t (454 mt), and
® salmon (slimed): 100 t (91 mt).
At capacity, the plant would be capable of producing 24,250 t (22,000 mt) of finished
seafood product annually and would have a product storage capacity of 2,756 t (2,500 mt).
In addition to fisheries products processed at the plant, Deep Sea Fisheries may act as a
transshipment and cold storage facility for part of the Eastern European fleet as part of a
proposed joint venture. Transshipment would include loading and unloading foreign vessels
with block or case frozen products which have been processed on the high seas.
Waste Streams
Deep Sea Fisheries is proposing to discharge all processing, sewage, and domestic
wastewaters through a single outfall to a new discharge site. The new outfall site is located
approximately 150 ft (46 m) northeast of the proposed facility site and about 2,000 ft
(609 m) east of the existing discharge. The main 12 or 18 in (30 or 46 cm [inside diameter])
outfall will be located in about 90 to 110 ft (28 to 34 m) of water and will terminate in a
20 ft (6.1 m) standpipe configuration. Stormwater discharges will consist of two separate
surface discharges to the harbor located on either side of the facility. Bailwater (water from
vessel refrigeration systems used to transport fish from vessel holds to the dock) will be
discharged off the dock. The anticipated volumes and sources of the discharges based on
maximum-rated capacity of the proposed facility are shown in Table 1.
9
-------
Fresh Water
720 gpd
Discharges
tgpd = gallons per day in 1,000s
Figure 4. Proposed Water Flow
10
-------
Table 1. Estimated Daily Flow and BOD5 Loading of Wastes Discharged
from Deep Sea Fisheries at Maximum-Rated Production Capacity*
Estimated Flow BOD5 Loadingb
Outfall
(gpd)
(1/day)
(lbs/day)
(kg/day)
Bailwater
167,400
633,678
7,150
3,243
Crab processing plant
5,040,000
19,078,475
3,485
1,581
Finfish processing plant
3,419,000
12,942,323
10,231
4,641
Fish meal plant
1,242,833
4,704,635
22,223
10,080
Sewage treatment plant
100,000
378,541
25
11
Stormwater
840.000
3.179.746
0
0
Total
10,809,233
40,917,398
43,114
19,556
a Maximum-rated production equal to 405
mt pollock (filleted) and 110 mt
crab
(sectioned).
b See text for BOD loading calculations.
BODs = 5-day biological oxygen demand
gpd = gallons per day
1/day = liters per day
lbs/day = pounds per day
kg/day = kilograms per day
11
-------
Deep Sea Fisheries proposes to grind (to 0.5 in [1.27 cm] diameter) and discharge
solid crab waste through the proposed outfall site. Nearly all solid waste produced by finfish
processing will be conveyed to the fish meal plant for processing. However, some fine solids
which flow through the 0.2 in (5-millimeter [mm]) screens in the plant drainage systems
would be discharged through the proposed outfall.
There are several essentially liquid waste streams from the proposed processing
operations which contain varying amounts of fine solids. These include bailwater, process
water collected in the crab and finfish processing building drainage systems, stickwater
(waste liquor from the fish meal plant), and water used for the air scrubbing system in the
fish meal plant. Deep Sea Fisheries is proposing to recirculate coolant water from the
powerhouse. In addition to the effluents directly related to processing operations, Deep Sea
Fisheries is proposing to discharge secondarily treated sanitary wastewater and stormwater
to the harbor.
The totaJ daily loading and concentration of solids in liquid waste streams from the
proposed processing operations will depend on the amount of crab and fish processed each
day. Two methods were used to estimate production and consequent discharges from the
proposed facility: maximum-rated capacity and maximum seasonal production. Maximum-
rated capacity (Table 1) is based on the rated capacity of the processing equipment. Under
this production scenario, crab production was based on the rated capacity of the crab line.
Maximum daily finfish production was based on the maximum-rated capacity of the fish
meal plant.
Due to the seasonal nature of the fisheries, the volume and composition of wastes
discharged to Akutan Harbor from Deep Sea Fisheries' proposed operations will vary
through the year. The seasonality of production is primarily driven by the two dominant
fisheries in the Bering Sea/Gulf of Alaska region, crab and pollock. Table 2 illustrates the
maximum seasonal production of the proposed facility. These production rates are based
on several factors. Crab production is based on Deep Sea Fisheries' 1992 discharge
monitoring reports (DMRs) (Carroll pers. comm.). Crab data for 1992 were used in the
analysis because they represent the greatest crab production levels since the decline of the
king crab fishery.
Since Deep Sea Fisheries does not currently process finfish, the maximum seasonal
production rates for pollock and other finfish species were based on the anticipated yearly
production of the proposed facility and the seasonality of the fisheries. To account for
seasonality, the maximum seasonal production values were based on the percent of annual
production achieved by Trident Seafoods each month in 1992.
The estimated daily loading of 5-day biological oxygen demand (BOD5) from the
proposed facility is also presented in Tables 1 and 2. The projected BODs loading is
calculated to be extremely variable on an annual basis. Peak BODs loading occurs during
two periods coinciding with the peaks of the crab and pollock fisheries in the winter, and
the peak of the pollock fishery in the summer. The basis of the Table 2 calculations, and
calculated worst-case conditions for the individual processes, are presented below.
12
-------
Tabic 2. Maximum Seasonal Production and Associated BOD5 Loading for Deep Sea Fisheries Proposed Discharge
Daily Production Estimates
Daily BOD Loading Estimates
Month
1992 Crab
Production
(lbs/day)
Projected Pollock
Production
(lbs/day)
Projected Other
Fish Production
(lbs/day)
Baitwater
(lbs/day)
Crab Process
(lbs/day)
Fish
Processing
(lbs/day)
Fishmeal Plant
Pollock
(lbs/day)
Fishmeal Plant
Other Species
(lbs/day)
Total Projected
Daily BOD Loading
(lbs/day)
January
108,636
275,044
26,541
2,413
1,173
3,383
7,189
657
14,814
February
248,563
979,725
0
7,838
2,684
12,051
25,606
0
48,179
March
133,934
270,426
35,726
2,449
1,446
3,326
7,068
884
15,174
April
68,754
0
51,497
412
743
0
0
1,275
2,429
May
0
0
21,058
168
0
0
0
521
690
June
0
129,958
4,852
1,078
0
1,598
3,397
120
6,194
July
0
615,773
1,246
4,936
0
7,574
16,094
31
28,635
August
0
1,117,501
1,788
8,954
0
13,745
29,207
44
51,951
September
0
860,681
149
6,887
0
10,586
22,495
4
39,971
October
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
November
38,744
0
0
0
418
0
0
0
418
December
25,031
551,962
0
4,416
270
6,789
14,426
0
25,901
Note: Data are based on Deep Sea Fisheries' 1992 crab data, Trident Seafoods' seasonal production for 1992, and Deep Seas Fisheries' projected production.
-------
The fish meal plant Deep Sea Fisheries proposes to use has a maximum-rated
capacity of 331 t (300 mt) per day raw input (Johnson pers. comm.). The calculated waste
yield for the pollock filleting process ranges between 64 and 78% (Crapo et al. 1988).
Based on a waste yield of 74% (Trident Seafoods' estimated yield), Deep Sea Fisheries
could process a maximum of 446 t (405 mt) round weight of pollock per day and still remain
within the maximum-rated capacity of the meal plant.
Based on the calculations in Table 2, Deep Sea Fisheries could exceed the rated
capacity of its meal plant during the peak months of pollock processing (February and
August). Since meal plant capacity can be modified, it will be assumed that Deep Sea
Fisheries can increase the capacity of the plant to process maximum seasonal production
quantities. This assumption will allow the analysis of worst-case conditions because it
accounts for maximum waste discharge. If Deep Sea Fisheries cannot increase the
production capacity of the meal plant, and fish processing wastes do exceed the capacity of
the plant, Deep Sea Fisheries would be required to obtain an ocean dumping permit to
dispose of the excess solid waste offshore.
The maximum amount of crab which can be processed in a day is estimated to be
110 t (100 mt) based on cooking capacity (Cronauer pers. comm.). However, based on the
1992 DMR, Deep Sea Fisheries did achieve an average daily processing rate of 124 t
(113 mt) in February 1992 (Carroll pers. comm.). The February 1992 value was used as the
maximum seasonal production estimate.
Bailwater. Fish will be unloaded from boats at the Deep Sea Fisheries dock by
pumps. The pumps will transport fish from the boat holds directly into the processing
building. Bailwater will either be recycled back to the boats, or will be discharged directly
into Akutan Harbor. As a worst case, this analysis assumes that bailwater is discharged to
the harbor. The daily volume of water necessary to offload fish is approximately 1 cubic
foot (.03 m3) of water per 40 lbs (18 kg) of fish. No specific bailwater characteristics are
available for pollock; however, typical bailwater characteristics reported by EPA (1975) are:
• BODs: 16 lbs/ton (8 kg/mt),
• suspended solids: 10 lbs/ton (5 kg/mt), and
• oil and grease: 6 lbs/ton (3 kg/mt).
Based on the maximum-rated capacity of the pollock line, there would be an
estimated BOD5 loading of approximately 7,136 lbs per day (3,237 kg). The estimated daily
discharge of suspended solids and oil and grease would be 4,460 lbs (2,023 kg) and 2,676 lbs
(1,214 kg), respectively.
Based on the maximum seasonal production rate calculated for pollock (August), the
maximum BODs loading from bailwater would be approximately 8,954 lbs per day
(4,061 kg). The estimated maximum seasonal discharge of suspended solids and oil and
grease from bailwater is 5,588 lbs (2,534 kg) and 3,353 lbs (1,521 kg) per day, respectively.
Bailwater also contains solids, such as scales, which would be deposited on the harbor
bottom.
14
-------
Crab Processing Waste. The waste streams from the crab processing facility will
consist of both liquid fraction wastes (from the washing and cooking processes) and solid
fraction wastes (carapace, gills, offal). The solid wastes are ground prior to discharge. The
crab is processed in sections. Crapo et al. (1988) estimated that the waste yield of Tanner
crab processed for cooked sections ranges from 34 to 42% and averages 40% of the raw
weight. However, according to the 1991 and 1992 DMRs submitted to EPA by Deep Sea
Fisheries and Trident Seafoods, waste yields for crab at the existing facilities are
approximately 30% of the raw weight. Based on this waste yield, Deep Sea Fisheries would
discharge 33 t (30 mt) of crab waste per day when the facility is operating at maximum-rated
capacity, or 37.2 t (33.7 mt) at maximum seasonal production levels. The annual cumulative
discharges of crab waste for Deep Sea Fisheries for 1991 and 1992 were estimated to be
482 t (437 mt) and 655 t (594 mt), respectively.
Typical unscreened waste loads for whole Alaskan crab and sections reported in EPA
(1974, 1975) are:
o BOD5: 72 lbs/ton (36 kg/mt),
o suspended solids: 44 lbs/ton (22 kg/mt), and
• oil and grease: 16 lbs/ton (7 kg/mt).
Based on the maximum-rated capacity for crab, there would be an estimated BOD5
loading of approximately 2,376 lbs per day (1,078 kg). The estimated daily discharge of
suspended solids and oil and grease would be 1,452 lbs (659 kg) and 528 lbs (239 kg),
respectively, at the maximum-rated capacity.
Based on maximum seasonal production values for crab (Table 2), the BOD5 loading
is estimated to be approximately 2,864 lbs (1,300 kg) per day. The estimated maximum
seasonal discharge of suspended solids and oil and grease is 1,637 lbs (742 kg) and 595 lbs
(270 kg) per day, respectively.
Finfish Process Wastes. The waste stream from the fish processing facility will
consist primarily of liquid fraction wastes from the washing and rinsing processes. The
liquids will flow into the building drainage system and will be conveyed to the main outfall.
Prior to entering the outfall, the waste liquids will pass through a 0.2 in (5 mm) screen to
remove solids. Solids from the screens and other solid wastes from processing will be
ground and conveyed to the meal plant.
At maximum-rated capacity, Deep Sea Fisheries can process 446 t (405 mt) of finfish
per day. The largest amounts of waste are generated in the filleting processes for pollock
and cod. In the analysis of waste streams of other seafood processors, the concentration of
BOD5 in the fillet process effluent ranged from 1,047 to 1,226 milligrams per liter (mg/I)
and 746 to 1,145 mg/1 for pollock and cod, respectively (University of Alaska 1988). Using
a discharge flow of 1,000,000 gpd (3,785,412 1) from the finfish processing plant with a BOD5
concentration of 1,226 mg/1, the total BOD5 loading from the finfish processing operation
at maximum-rated capacity would be 5.1 t (4.6 mt) per day. Based on maximum seasonal
production during a peak month such as August (Table 2), Deep Sea Fisheries could process
15
-------
as much as 559 t (507 mt) of pollock per day. Assuming Deep Sea Fisheries can process
this amount of fish, projected average daily BOD5 loading for the month of August could
be as high as 6.9 t (6.2 mt) per day.
Fish Meal Process Wastes. The primary waste streams which will be produced by
the fish meal process are stickwater and the discharges from the air scrubbing system. Fish
waste from the finfish processing operations (including solids collected from 0.2 in [5 mm]
screens in the building's drainage system) will be ground and conveyed to the fish meal
plant. The meed is cooked, then dehydrated with a mechanical press. Presswater is the
waste liquor produced in dehydrating the fish meal. The presswater (which is a slurry of hot
liquor and fine solids) is decanted to remove the solids. The solids are returned to the meal
process. The remaining liquid fraction is centrifuged to remove light oils. These oils can
be used as fuel for the boilers and generators. The remaining waste liquor is termed
stickwater. Deep Sea Fisheries proposes to recycle 17% of the stickwater to the meal plant.
This will allow Deep Sea Fisheries to maintain product salt content within a range
acceptable to the market. Stickwater not recycled to the meal plant will be discharged to
Akutan Harbor through the primary outfall.
Riley (pers. comm.) reported that the amount of stickwater produced by the Trident
Seafoods fish meal plant is approximately equal to 70% of the amount of fish processed into
meal. Based on this proportion, at a maximum-rated capacity (331 t [300 mt] of raw input
per day), the Deep Sea Fisheries fish meal plant would produce approximately 231 t
(210 mt) or 55,476 gal (210,000 1) of stickwater per day. Based on estimates made by the
manufacturer of the fish meal plant (Johnson pers. comm.), the BOD5 loading of the
stickwater, after 17% of the stickwater is recycled, would be approximately 8.8 t (8 mt) per
day (38,000 mg/1). Reported BOD5 values for stickwater vary greatly. Trident Seafoods
(Donegan pers. comm.) reported that the BOD5 concentration of stickwater from its facility
varies in relation to the amount of fish meal being produced in its plant (batch loaded
process), with lower BOD5 concentrations in stickwater when the plant is operating near
capacity. The BOD5 concentration estimated for the Trident Seafoods stickwater is
48.000 mg/1 (Riley pers. comm.). Independent testing of Trident Seafoods' stickwater
discharge by Jones & Stokes Associates in June 1992 found BOD5 concentrations of 48,000
and 60,750 mg/1. When these samples were collected, the fish meal plant was operating at
reduced capacity. Donegan (pers. comm.) indicated that the meal plant process is less
efficient when run at reduced capacity. Though the BOD5 concentrations of the stickwater
are higher during periods of reduced production, the actual loading of BOD5 would be lower
than when the plant is running at full capacity. Since the analysis of worst-case conditions
coincides with periods when the fish meal plant is operating at full capacity, a BOD5
concentration of 48,000 mg/1 will be used in this analysis. At the maximum-rated capacity
of the meal plant (331 t [300 mt]), the daily BOD5 loading from the meal plant would be
11.1 t (10.1 mt).
Based on maximum seasonal production during a peak production month such as
August (Table 2), Deep Sea Fisheries could generate as much as 443 t (402 mt) of pollock
waste per day. Assuming Deep Sea Fisheries can process this amount of fish in its meal
plant, the stickwater discharge volume would be 74,472 gal (281,908 1). Based on a BOD5
16
-------
concentration of 48,000 mg/1 in stickwater, the average daily BOD5 loading from the meal
plant for a peak summer month could be as high as 14.6 t (13.2 mt) per day.
As an odor control measure, vapors from the meal plant will be channeled through
a spray of seawater. The spray functions to scrub aromatic organic compounds from the
vented meal plant air prior to release to the atmosphere. The system at Deep Sea Fisheries
will use about 1.2 million gallons (4.5 million liters) of seawater per day, which will be
discharged through the main outfall. There is currently no information on the character of
this discharge. Odorous chemicals are often detected by humans at concentrations measured
in a few parts per billion. For the purposes of impact assessment, it is assumed that the
concentration of aromatic compounds in the scrubber water will be in the range of a few
parts per billion. The BOD5 exerted by this loading in 1.2 million gallons (4.5 million liters)
per day is expected to be almost zero.
Sanitary Wastewater. The BODs content of the sanitary wastewater from the Deep
Sea Fisheries facility is expected to be low. In the absence of information, it is assumed that
the BOD5 concentration would be comparable to the 30 mg/1 limit typically placed on
effluent from secondary treatment facilities. At a reported volume of 100,000 gpd
(378,541 1), this would result in an estimated BODs loading of 7 lbs per day (3 kg) from
sanitary wastewater.
Stormwater. Deep Sea Fisheries proposes to divert stormwater to two surface
discharges to Akutan Harbor. The expected characteristics of stormwater discharge from
the site are not known. Stormwater running through the site would be expected to contain
some hydrocarbons (fuels), associated with the machine shop and fuel storage areas, and
sediments. The proposed stormwater recovery and treatment system includes retention/
detention ponds and oil/water separators on each of the two stormwater discharges, which
should minimize hydrocarbon and sediment loading to the harbor. BODs loading is
expected to be minimal.
Solid Waste Accumulation
Deep Sea Fisheries is proposing to construct a new crab processing facility. Based
on processing efficiencies during the 1991/1992 processing season, Deep Sea Fisheries
expects to increase its maximum-rated capacity for production of crab from 62.5 t (56.7 mt)
to 110 t (100 mt). The maximum seasonal production in 1992 was 124 t (113 mt) per day.
The NPDES permit application indicated that the annual production of crab would remain
unchanged at 9,000 t (8,165 mt). Estimates of crab pile dimensions are discussed later in
the Marine Benthic Environments Section of Operational Impacts.
17
-------
EXISTING ENVIRONMENT
The existing environment section was compiled from literature sources, personal
communications, and information gathered during a field study conducted in Akutan Haxbor
during April 1992. Field methodologies are included with the following sections. The
chronological report of the field study is presented in Appendix A.
Climate and Air Quality
The eastern Aleutian Islands are characterized by a maritime climate. Low-lying fog,
overcast skies, and rain and drizzle dominate weather conditions along the archipelago
because air masses over the warmer Pacific Ocean encounter chilled air over the colder
Bering Sea. The nearest weather station is located at Dutch Harbor on Unalaska Island
(approximately 40 miles west of Akutan Harbor). Mean maximum and minimum
temperatures in Dutch Harbor are 56 °F (13°C) and 25 °F (-3.8 °C) respectively, with little
diurnal variation (City of Akutan 1982).
Topography
Akutan Harbor is a glacially-formed fjord approximately 3.9 miles (6.3 kilometers
[km]) long. The harbor is approximately 1.8 miles (3 km) wide at its mouth and narrows
to approximately 0.6 mile (1 km) wide at its head. The northern and southern shorelines
are generally rocky and steep. Elevations of 1,082 ft (330 m) are reached in under 0.6 mile
(1 km) along both sides of the fjord. The head of the fjord is a flat valley with a gradually
increasing slope as it curves around to a high ridge to the northeast. The community of
Akutan, the Trident Seafoods facility, and the abandoned whaling station are located on the
only other relatively flat ground (terraces) near sea level.
Bathymetiy
The submarine slopes along the sides of the fjord are steep with water depths of 60 ft
(18 m) reached within 480 ft (146 m) from shore (8:1 slope). The harbor bottom is
relatively flat and gradually deepens from 88 ft (27 m) at the head of the harbor, to 200 ft
(61 m) at the mouth of the harbor. The harbor does not have an outer barrier sill that
might act to inhibit the exchange of deeper waters between the harbor and the Bering Sea.
18
-------
General Overview of Physical Processes
This section includes a discussion of measurements of winds and currents, as well as
a discussion of a numerical model of the wind-driven circulation developed for Akutan
Harbor. Using the measurements and the numerical calculations, assessments were made
concerning the effects of fish waste discharged into the harbor. A more detailed description
of field measurements and circulation modeling can be found in Appendix B.
Stratification. Since Akutan Harbor is an arm off the Bering Sea, density
stratification within the harbor is determined by the stratification of the Bering Sea waters.
During the winter, Bering Sea waters in the vicinity of the Aleutians are well mixed to
depths in excess of the depths in Akutan Harbor (Kinder and Schumacher 1981). Based on
the studies conducted as part of this assessment, there is insufficient freshwater flow into
Akutan Harbor to measurably stratify the homogeneous Bering Sea waters of the harbor in
the winter. A weak stratification at the head of the harbor was noted in the summer of
1983 (EPA 1984b). The stratification was measurable seaward to about the location of the
Trident Seafoods facilities. Because of this weak stratification, density is not considered to
be an important factor in determining the circulation in Akutan Harbor.
Wind and Currents. Wind speed and direction have been continually monitored
since September 1991 at a meteorological station located on top of the old processing
building at the Trident Seafoods facility. Quarterly wind roses for 1992 are presented in
Figure 5. The dominant winds during the study period were north-east-north to west-north-
west but also demonstrated a strong east-south-east component.
Three Aanderra current meters were deployed in Akutan Harbor on April 6, 1992.
These current meters collected data on current speed and direction, pressure, and
temperature continuously until their recovery on June 4, 1992, a period of 60 days. Two of
the current meters were deployed at depths of 72 ft (22 m) and 82 ft (25 m) at the proposed
outfall location for the Deep Sea Fisheries facility (Figure 6). The third current meter was
deployed at a depth of 141 ft (43 m) and located in midchannel, offshore from the Trident
Seafoods facility. Data collected from the current meters are included as Appendix C.
Table 3 shows the average current velocities observed at each of the three moorings.
Based on the current meter records, tidal currents were found to be weak (1 to
2 centimeters per second [cm/s]). The tides accounted for less than 10% of the observed
current velocities. The dominant currents observed were primarily generated by wind
events. A display of the relationships between winds and currents is contained in
Appendix B, Figures B-2 to B-4.
Severe storm activity (sustained winds in excess of 40 knots) did not occur during the
spring of 1992. The winds generally blew either into the harbor (from the east) or out of
the harbor (from the west). Westerly winds occurred about 70% of the time and the winds
seldom exceeded 20 knots (10 meters per second [m/s]) in sustained hourly wind speed.
Currents related to these winds were generally in the 5 to 20 cm/s range, with the stronger
19
-------
cer.i 'Aircose -
January to March
1992
April to June
1992
Tr Lden t UJlndroee - 3rd Olr 1992
N
Trident Ullr>drose - 4 ih Olr 1992
July to September
1992
October to December
1992
Source: Winges pers. comm.
Figure 5. Wind Roses Depicting Quarterly Summaries of Wind
Direction and Magnitude in Akutan Harbor, Alaska,
January to December 1992
20
-------
-------
Table 3. Average Current Velocities Recorded by
Three Current Meters Located in Alcutan Harbor
Average Currents*
Meter Location u(cm/s) v(cm/s)
Near Trident (43 m)
Deep Sea (22 m)
Deep Sea (25 m)
1.177 -2.66
1.305 -7.60
0.844 -6.81
* u = east-west directional component
v = south-north directional component
cm/s = centimeters per second
22
-------
15 to 20 cm/s currents occurring following and during easterly wind storms. The current
speeds were greater at the midchannel mooring near the Trident Seafoods facility
(Mooring 1) than at either of the instruments at the site of the proposed Deep Sea Fisheries
outfall (Mooring 2).
Modeling Wind-Driven Circulation
Wind-driven circulation refers to estuarine currents created by wind stress on surface
waters of the estuary. This stress causes two responses: (1) surface waters are pulled in the
same direction as the winds, piling up against any boundary (shoreline) impeding the flow,
and (2) a deep recirculating countercurrent (opposite to the wind direction) develops to
offset water transport near the sea surface.
The model chosen to analyze the wind-driven circulation in Akutan Harbor predicts
the depth-averaged velocities and the sea level. The model is described in detail in
Appendix B, and it generally follows the calculations for a 2-1/2 dimensional circulation
model developed by Koutitas (1988). The Koutitas calculations and program coding used
for modeling Akutan Harbor are presented in Appendices D and E, respectively.
Model results are presented here for short-term storm events (40-knot [20 m/s]
winds) and longer quiescent periods (10-knot [5 m/s] winds). Four cases are presented.
Figures 7 and 8 illustrate the model-predicted currents in the harbor 4 hours (hr) following
the onset of 40-knot easterly winds (Figure 7) and 40-knot westerly winds (Figure 8).
Figures 9 and 10 illustrate the currents in the harbor following 32 hr of weak wind
(10 knots) from the east and west, respectively. Each arrow in the figures represents the
magnitude and direction of the predicted depth-averaged currents. The current flow is
toward the bold head on the arrows. Under short-term strong wind conditions (Figures 7
and 8), the circulation model predicted incomplete mixing between the inner harbor (west
of Trident Seafoods) and the outer harbor. This suggests a higher potential for effluents
discharged to the inner harbor to concentrate and settle in this area. Under longer-term,
weak wind conditions (Figures 9 and 10), predicted currents 32 hr after the onset of the
winds were slow (generally less than 10 cm/s), with very little apparent net transport of
water between the inner and outer harbor.
To evaluate the potential for dispersion of effluent from the proposed outfall site, the
hydrodynamic models were modified to illustrate the effect of predicted currents on the
movement of a tracer. The modeling methods and the results of these model simulations
are discussed in detail as part of the alternative outfall location analysis (under Alternatives
and their Environmental Effects below). As expected, the storm event scenarios showed a
much wider dispersion pattern than the quiescent scenarios. In all cases, more dispersion
was realized for the east wind scenarios as compared to the west wind scenarios.
23
-------
to
~ oqooooooooo
DO*.*.*-*-*-* * * ' • • Q
Figure 7. Predicted Circulation Pattern in Akutan Harbor, Alaska, 4 Hours after the Onset of a 20 m/s
East Wind
-------
N>
Lr\
OODQODOOOOOD
Figure 8. Predicted Circulation Pattern in Akutan Harbor, Alaska, 4 Hours after the Onset of a 20 m/s
West Wind
-------
Akutan
Trident Seafoods
o o o o D
° ° i
1 . . . • .
° ° ° ~ / -
f *
O Q D Q O D Q O O < , < t / (
D O O O \ •
O \
Proposed Deep Sea
Fisheries Facility
(N>
\ f
D Q \ t \ ,
D O D O D N « k. • • » • t • « • ,
O \ 4. r ». * , < . • , 1 % a
k \ * k
D O O O O Q D \ S a. k >.
D \ V. -s. ^
D O D N _ D
" " • ^ ~*
• • « /
• * - ~ D
• - j
' > j i D
°
- » D
¦ ¦ ' i
V \ _ ,
rf V * » t
t ¦ • #
^ ^ 1
D O D O O D
1 Inch - 1 m/s
Figure 9. Predicted Circulation Pattern in Akutan Harbor, Alaska, 32 Hours after the Onset of a 5 m/s
East Wind
-------
N>
-J
Akutan
Trident Seafoods
nnrtPDODO
ODD
> O
O > -4 ,
D
O O /*
o s* S"
O D y* > > ^ -• -J
O
O » ^ > >*»*¦•
o / / / > J J . . .
D C3 /'/'/*<• * • ¦ • • •
^ X* ^ ^ • •
— ^ * • •
-* >, N •» k »
D D O O O ~ O
Proposed Deep Sea
Fisheries Facility
\ \ J
° s \
O D
f - ,
D D D O D
S N *» -
D -
D O O
- - - ' . -«=
. , / T D
, ^ 4. V «=>
4 # / » O
^ - D
Legend
T Direction of flow (^ )
V.S S ^
o ^D °
ODD ^ -^O
D ~ O
f . d
- « •*
. - ¦*
. . «*
, . J
. . -J
. . «i
• . ¦*
. .J
^ /iJ
- - «*
q . „ . •»
n . . . «°
H . . . . o
j t « < Q
O O O O D CI
1 Inch = 1 m/s
Figure 10. Predicted Circulation Pattern in Akutan Harbor, Alaska, 32 Hours after the Onset of a 5 m/s
West Wind
-------
Water Quality
Ambient water quality conditions within Akutan Harbor were characterized to assess
potential impacts of seafood processing activities on receiving waters. Water quality studies
were also performed to determine the potential for Deep Sea Fisheries and other shore-
based and floating processors to cause cumulative impacts to the harbor. Water quality
parameters were selected to identify harbor stratification and evaluate impacts known to be
associated with processing activities such as anoxia, nutrient loading, and the presence of
fecal coliforms.
More crab were landed and processed in Akutan Harbor during the 1991/1992 crab
season than in the preceding four seasons (Table 4). Over 30,7001 (27,850 mt) of crab were
processed in the harbor between the weeks of November 17, 1991, and April 26, 1992. At
the peak of the 1991/1992 season, 3,956 t (3,589 mt) of crab were processed in a week
(Appendix F). During the 4 weeks prior to the study, between 1,732 t (1,571 mt) and
2,325 t (2,110 mt) of crab were processed each week. However, very limited processing
activity was occurring in the harbor during the field study. Most of the transient floating
processors had left the harbor about a week prior to the study. Trident Seafoods, the
M/V Clipperton, and the M/V Deep Sea processed only small quantities of crab at different
times during the study period. Unfortunately, water quality samples could not be obtained
from the outfall plumes of these processors while they were actively discharging. However,
some water samples were collected from waters immediately above the waste piles at the
Trident Seafood outfall and above the M/V Deep Sea crab waste pile. During the week
of the study, 627 t (569 mt) of crab were processed in the harbor.
Water Quality Profiles
A variety of sampling methods were used during the water quality sampling effort.
Data on physical parameters were gathered using a Hydro Lab Model 4001. The Hydro
Lab was used to determine conductivity, temperature, and dissolved oxygen concentrations
throughout the water column. These data were used to calculate water density and
determine if waters were stratified within the harbor. Profile data were collected at
11 stations throughout the harbor (Figure 11). Figure 12 illustrates several typical harbor
profiles.
Near-bottom temperature ranged from 36.5°F to 37°F (2.5°C to 2.7°C) (Table 5).
Surface temperatures showed more variability and ranged from 35.8°F to 39.4°F (2.1 °C to
4.1°C). Conductivity at all stations, except the Trident Seafoods outfall station, remained
relatively constant throughout the water column with a range of 503 to 510 microsiemens
per centimeter (/is/cm). At the Trident Seafoods outfall station (H-9), the conductivity
profiles showed a decrease from 504 Ms/cm at the surface to 329 us/cm in near-bottom
waters. Dissolved oxygen concentrations were above 100% saturation (12.1 to 15.5 mg/I)
in surface waters at all stations except the Trident Seafoods outfall station, which contained
28
-------
Table 4. Annual Crab Landings in Akutan Harbor
between 1987 and 1992*
Season
1987/1988
1988/1989
1989/1990
11990/1991
1991/1992
Pounds
21,850,100
19,241,150
14,030,000
33,883,000
61,406,000
Source: Griffin pers. comm.
* Crab seasons generally occur between November and
May.
29
-------
-------
Station H 2
Depth
(m)
75
T
Legend
A Temperature
• Conductivity
¦ Salinity
~ Oxygen
i
"i—i—r—i—i—r*
T
5 Temperature (C)
15 Conductivity (MMHO)
25 Salinity (pptj
0 Oxygen (mg/1)
-i—i—i—i—I—i—i—r
10 15 sigma t 25
30
40
15
Depth
(m)
75
Station H 5
*'''
Legend
A Temperature
e Conductivity
¦ Salinity
« Oxygen
~i i I i i i i i i i i i—i—r
-5 Temperature (C)
15 Conductivity (MMHO)
25 Salinity (ppt)
0 Oxygen (mg/l)
Depth
(m)
75
Station H 8
1 1 » 1 1
7
Legend
A Temperature
• Conductivity
¦ Salinity
~ Oxygen
-i—i—i—i—i—i—i—i—i—r
-5 Temperature (C)
15 Conductivity (MMHO)
25 Salinity (ppt)
0 Oxygen (mg/l)
Depth
(m)
75
Station H 10
J 1 1 1 1— 1 U_1 L
Legend
A Temperature
o Conductivity
¦ Salinity
« Oxygen
-5 Temperature (C)
15 Conductivity (MMHO)
25 Salinity (ppt)
0 Oxygen (mg/l)
Figure 12. Typical Water Quality Profiles of Akutan Harbor, April 1992
31
-------
Table 5. Water Quality Data Collected during Hydrocast Surveys of
Akutan Harbor 1992
Secchi
Depth Temp. Conduct. Salinity Density DO Disk
Station (ft) (°C) (jus/cm) (o/oo) (sigma t) (mg/1) (m)
H-l, S
0
3.0
506
27.34
21.69
15.5
6.5
H-l, B
69
2.7
507
27.71
21.95
12.7
-
H-2, S
0
3.2
505
27.11
21.49
14.8
7.0
H-2, B
115
2.6
507
27.74
22.03
12.7
-
H-3, S
0
3.0
506
27.34
21.69
14.5
5.5
H-3, B
85
2.6
508
27.80
22.08
13.0
—
H-4, S
0
3.4
507
27.06
21.44
13.4
—
HA, B
97
2.7
508
27.71
22.08
12.5
-
H-5, S
0
2.1
503
27.94
22.21
13.8
5.0
H-5, B
93
2.5
508
27.89
22.15
12.5
-
H-6, S
0
3.5
506
26.92
21.32
12.6
-
H-6, B
127
2.5
508
27.89
22.15
11.6
-
H-7, S
0
4.0
505
26.45
20.92
12.6
~
H-7, B
147
2.5
509
27.95
22.20
10.3
-
H-8, S
0
3.3
506
27.08
21.47
12.2
--
H-8, B
162
2.6
510
27.92
22.17
10.0
--
H-9, S
0
4.1
504
26.31
20.80
11.2
—
H-9, B
122
2.5
329
17.34
13.86
6.2
—
H-10, S
0
2.8
506
27.51
21.83
13.0
>15
H-10, B
165
2.5
508
27.89
22.15
12.3
--
H-ll, S
0
2.7
506
27.59
21.91
12.1
>15
H-ll, B
160
2.5
509
27.95
22.20
11.5
--
S = surface
B = bottom
ft = feet
Ats/cm = microsiemens per
centimeter
mg/1 = milligrams per liter
m = meters
o/oo = parts per thousand
32
-------
11.2 mg/1. Near-bottom waters at all but the Trident Seafoods outfall station contained
oxygen concentrations between 10.0 and 13.0 mg/1. Dissolved oxygen in near-bottom waters
at the Trident Seafoods outfall station was 6.2 mg/1.
Based on calculated densities, the harbor was not stratified at the time of the 1992
study. Profile data collected in June and September of 1983 also showed no signs of
stratification in the harbor.
Discrete Water Samples
Discrete depth water samples for chemical analysis were collected from fixed stations
with a 4-liter Van Dora bottle (Figure 13). Water column profile data indicated the harbor
was not stratified; therefore, samples for chemical analysis were collected only from surface
and near-bottom waters at each station. Water quality sampling Stations WQ-1 to WQ-11
were located as close as possible to water quality Stations 1 through 11 used during the
September 1983 surveys. These were considered background water quality stations.
Stations WQ-12 to WQ-15 were located approximately 800 ft offshore from the Trident
Seafoods facility, in the vicinity of the proposed Deep Sea Fisheries outfall site, over the
M/V Deep Sea waste pile, and near the mouth of the harbor, respectively.
Samples were placed into bottles containing appropriate chemical preservatives. The
samples were transported on ice from Akutan Harbor to Seattle, Washington, where analysis
was performed by an accredited laboratory. The water quality samples were analyzed for
total Kjeldahl nitrogen (TKN), nitrate + nitrite nitrogen (N-N), oil and grease, and hydrogen
sulfide. All sampling procedures followed the guidelines outlined by EPA-
Water quality data indicated that waters in the harbor contained very low
concentrations of TKN, N-N, hydrogen sulfide, and oil and grease at the time of the study
(Table 6). TKN concentrations ranged from below detectable levels (0.25 mg/1) to
0.64 mg/1 in surface waters, and from below detectable levels to 0.92 mg/1 in the near-
bottom samples. N-N concentrations remained low throughout the harbor and ranged from
below detectable levels (0.01 mg/1) to 0.079 mg/1 in surface waters, and from below
detectable levels to 0.070 mg/1 in near-bottom waters at all stations except Station WQ-13.
Near-bottom N-N concentrations at this site (near the Deep Sea Fisheries outfall) were
greater (0.20 mg/1) than at other areas in the harbor. Hydrogen sulfide concentrations were
below detectable levels (1.0 mg/1) at 13 of the, 15 sampling stations, but hydrogen sulfide
was detected in surface waters at Station WQ-6 (2.4 mg/1) and Station WQ-8 (1.2 mg/1).
Total oil and grease concentrations were below detectable levels (1.0 mg/1) at all
15 sampling locations.
33
-------
-------
Table 6. Surface and Near-Bottom Water Quality Parameters
Measured in Akutan Harbor, April 1992
Nitrate Total Oil
Total and and
Nitrogen Nitrite Grease Sulfide
Station (mg/1) (mg/1) (mg/1) (mg/1)
Surface
WQ-1
<0.25
<0.01
<1
<1
WQ-2
<0.25
<0.01
<1
<1
WQ-3
<0.25
<0.01
<1
<1
WQ-4
<0.25
<0.01
N/C
<1
WQ-5
<0.25
<0.01
<1
<1
WQ-6
<0.25
<0.01
<1
2.4
WQ-7
<0.25
0.012
<1
<1
WQ-8
<0.25
0.052
<1
1.2
WQ-9
<0.25
0.048
<1
<1
WQ-10
<0.25
0.076
<1
<1
WQ-11
<0.25
<0.01
<1
<1
WQ-12
0.27
<0.01
<1
<1
WQ-13
0.29
<0.01
<1
<1
WQ-14
<0.25
0.024
<1
<1
WQ-15
<0.25
0.079
<1
<1
ir-Bottom
WQ-1
<0.25
0.055
<1
<1
WQ-2
<0.25
0.030
<1
<1
WQ-3
0.27
0.033
<1
<1
WQ-4
<0.25
0.018
N/C
<1
WQ-5
<0.25
0.067
<1
<1
WQ-6
0.26
0.050
<1
<1
WQ-7
<0.25
0.061
<1.
<1
35
-------
Table 6. Continued
Nitrate Total Oil
Total and and
Nitrogen Nitrite Grease Sulfide
Station (mg/1) (mg/1) (mg/I) (mg/1)
WQ-8
0.41
0.045
<1
<
WQ-9
0.64
0.055
<1
<
WQ-10
<0.25
0.021
<1
<
WQ-11
0.92
0.064
<1
<
WQ-12
<0.25
0.042
<1
<
WQ-13
<0.25
0.20
<1
<
WQ-14
0.31
0.061
<1
<
WQ-15
<0.25
0.070
<1
<
mg/1 = milligrams per liter
N/C = not collected
36
-------
Samples for the biological parameters, BOD5 and fecal coliform bacteria, were
collected on the final day of water quality testing. Samples were collected from surface
waters at eight sites near areas where contamination from marine sanitary or seafood
processing discharges were possible. Sample locations within the harbor included:
(1) off the Trident Seafoods dock,
(2) at the Trident Seafoods surface water outfall,
(3) at the docking site along the Trident Seafoods dock,
(4) at a reference ("clean") site in the central harbor,
(5) off the dock in Akutan Village,
(6) at the site of the proposed Deep Sea Fisheries outfall,
(7) off the bow of the M/V Clipperton, and
(8) off the bow of the M/V Deep Sea.
These samples were put on ice and hand-carried to Dutch Harbor, Alaska, where
they were analyzed by an accredited laboratory. This procedure was necessary to ensure
that the samples reached the testing laboratory within 24 hr.
Data for BOD5 and fecal coliform bacteria are presented in Table 7. BOD5 in the
surface waters ranged from 0.88 to 2.07 mg/1. These levels of BODs seemed low
considering the amount of crab processing which had occurred in the harbor during the
preceding 2-month period (Appendix F). Processing activities did decrease dramatically a
week before the study from a peak of 3,956 t (3,589 mt) during the last week in February,
to 627 t (569 mt) during the week of the study.
Fecal coliform bacteria concentrations ranged from 2 to 55 fecal coliforms per
100 milliliter (ml). The highest concentrations of bacteria were found at the three stations
near the Trident Seafoods facility (Stations 1, 2, and 3). The mean bacterial concentration
from these three samples was 44 fecal coliforms per 100 ml.
Existing Seafood Waste Deposits
Historical Information
There has been a relatively long history of seafood processing in Akutan Harbor.
Several substantial seafood processing waste piles have been located with the aid of side-
scan sonar (SSS) and diver surveys. The largest waste pile lies off the Trident Seafoods
dock at a depth of 88 ft (27 m) and is composed of both crab and finfish waste. Using SSS
data collected in May 1989, the pile was estimated to cover 7.75 acres (31,800 square meters
[m2]) and to have a maximum height of 26 to 33 ft (8 to 10 m).
A waste pile was also identified beneath the M/V Deep Sea. Diver measurements
collected in 1990 indicated that the waste pile covered an area of 0.27 acre (1,107 m2) and
had a maximum height of 10 ft (3 m). There has been a continuous discharge (during the
winter months) at this location since 1979.
37
-------
Table 7. Fecal Coliform, Total Coliform, and BOD5 Data
Collected from Akutan Harbor, April 1992
Fecal Coliform Total Coliform BOD5
Station (#/100 ml) (#/100 ml) (rag/1)
1
32
118
N/D
2
45
120
1.09
3
55
137
2.70
4
0
9
1.06
5
2
4
1.22
6
0
0
0.88
7
.12
14
1.20
8
5
14
ml = millileter
mg/1 = milligrams per liter
N/D = not detectable
-- = no data
38
-------
Results of Side-Scan Sonar Surveys in 1992
Scientific Applications International Corporation (SAIC) conducted an SSS survey
of Akutan Harbor in April 1992 as part of a separate EPA contract (Appendix G). The SSS
survey was used to delineate the location of seafood processing waste piles in Akutan
Harbor. The SSS survey was conducted using an EG&G Model 260 Digital Image
Correcting Side-Scan Sonar system mounted on a 24 ft fishing boat. Because permanent
survey monuments were unavailable in the area, a rectilinear coordinate system was
established in the harbor by DOWL Engineers, Anchorage. A Motorola Miniranger IV
(MR4) positioning system was used to fix the location of the vessel carrying the SSS system
and determine its position with respect to the rectilinear coordinate system.
The SSS survey was conducted in two phases and included 19 survey tracklines. The
first phase was a reconnaissance survey of the harbor that included 9 tracklines which ran
east to west down the length of the harbor. Overlap of tracklines ensured complete
coverage of the harbor during this phase of the survey. The SSS system was equipped with
a printer which supplied an output of bottom features found during the survey of each
trackline. The survey logs were evaluated in the field to establish the position of suspect
waste piles to be further delineated during the second phase of the survey.
Preliminary assessment of the reconnaissance survey data indicated that three areas
warranted a more detailed survey. These included waste piles near the Trident Seafoods
shore-based facility; the permanently moored floating crab processor, M/V Deep Sea; and
the temporarily moored floating crab processor, M/V Clipperton. Two additional tracklines
each were surveyed at the M/V Deep Sea and M/V Clipperton sites. The Trident Seafoods
pile was delineated by running two additional north-to-south transects and four additional
east-to-west transects.
Twelve grab samples were collected using a 0.1 m2 Van Veen sampler to substantiate
findings of the SSS survey data (Figure 14). The vessel carrying the side-scan equipment
was inadequate for benthic sampling; therefore, the MR4 navigation system was transferred
to the M/V Flying D, a 90 ft converted landing craft, to locate and collect grab samples.
The SSS data analysis revealed significant waste piles associated with the Trident
Seafoods plant outfall and the M/V Deep Sea. Although several temporarily moored
floating processors, including the M/V Clipperton, were currently or recently operating in
Akutan Harbor, waste piles from temporary processors were not substantial enough to be
detected using the SSS alone. Apparently, many of the temporarily moored processors use
a single-point moorage arrangement, allowing them to swing on their moorage points in
response to the wind and thereby disperse their processing wastes over a broad area. The
SSS survey did not detect significant waste piles associated with the temporarily moored
floating processors. However, grab samples VSSS2 and VSSS3, taken from the outer harbor,
had a strong hydrogen sulfide smell. Additional surveys were conducted near the
M/V Clipperton because it was moored with both a fore and aft anchor and remained in
the same location throughout the 1991/1992 crab season. Evidence of wastes was found in
grab samples taken near the M/V Clipperton; however, waste accumulations were not
substantial enough for detection using the SSS.
39
-------
Figure 14. Locations of Benthic Samples Collected to Evaluate Side-Scan Sonar Surveys in 1992,
Akutan Harbor, Alaska
-------
The results of the SSS survey in April 1992 indicate that the waste piles near the
M/V Deep Sea and the Trident Seafoods outfall are much larger than was indicated by the
diver surveys or the earlier SSS surveys. The waste pile associated with the M/V Deep Sea
had been estimated to cover 0.27 acre (1,093 m2) during diver surveys conducted in 1990.
Based on SSS surveys in April 1992, SAIC estimated that the M/V Deep Sea waste pile
covered 2.5 acres (10,117 m2). Distribution of the waste pile was quite patchy based on the
SSS survey data. The patchiness of the M/V Deep Sea pile was further confirmed by grab
sample data. A total of six piles were found. Because precise positioning for the collection
of benthic samples could not be achieved, confirmation of each pile as a waste pile was not
possible. Therefore, estimated acreage of the waste piles under the M/V Deep Sea was
assigned an error of ±25%. It is possible that the ancillary piles located near the main
M/V Deep Sea waste pile may not have been included in earlier surveys.
Earlier SSS surveys in 1989 estimated the total areal coverage of the Trident
Seafoods waste pile to be 7.5 acres (31,352 m2). The SAIC SSS surveys indicated that the
Trident Seafoods waste pile covered 11.2 acres (45,325 m2). The primary portion of the pile
was estimated at 1.2 acres (4,047 m2). It appeared that wastes had spread downslope in a
southerly direction and had spread in both an easterly and westerly direction from the point
of origin. Difficulty in determining the waste boundary near the Trident Seafoods dock
warranted an estimated error of ±15%.
Marine Benthic Environments
The conditions of benthic habitats and the community structure of benthic organisms
can be used to assess the potential for impacts from the proposed project, and they can act
as an indicator of cumulative impacts associated with seafood processing in Akutan Harbor.
Data collected from the harbor during 1983 (EPA 1984b and other studies) on benthic
community structure, chemical quality of sediments, and location and size of crab waste piles
provide a baseline for the determination of cumulative impacts on subtidal environments.
Several methods were used to identify benthic habitat conditions within the harbor
in April 1992. In addition to the SSS surveys, Van Veen grab samples were used to
quantitatively characterize sediment quality and benthic community structure; gravity cores
were used to qualitatively characterize a broader area of sediments within the harbor; and
a remotely operated vehicle (ROV) with a VCR camera was use to document conditions
on the natural bottom and those areas affected by seafood processing activities. The
following describes methodologies and results of marine benthic habitat studies conducted
in Akutan Harbor during April 1992.
Sediment Quality. Sediment samples for chemical analysis were collected at
17 stations within the inner harbor in April 1992 (Figure 15). Twelve of the stations were
located as close as possible to harbor background Stations 1 through 3 and 5 through 13
used during the June 1983 studies (EPA 1984b). These stations duplicated the 1983 survey
41
-------
-------
locations in an attempt to provide an accurate comparison with samples collected during
earlier studies. Five additional sediment stations were added in 1992; one station east
(S-8A) and one station west (S-7A) of the Trident Seafoods facility, one station east of the
Akutan city dock (S-10A), and two stations (S-P03 and S-BPO) near the proposed Deep
Sea Fisheries outfall location. The sediment sampling effort concentrated on determining
harborwide effects of seafood processing activities on sediments, characterizing sediments
underlying areas exposed to discharges from floating seafood processors, and characterizing
areas expected to be impacted by crab waste discharges caused by the proposed action. The
sampling effort was not specifically concentrated on the existing Trident Seafoods or Deep
Sea Fisheries waste piles. The main focus of the sediment surveys was to determine if
cumulative impacts have occurred within the inner harbor. However, several samples were
collected in the near vicinity of these piles.
All sediment samples were collected using a 0.1 m2 Van Veen grab. The grabs were
subsampled to characterize sediment chemistry, and they were collected as close as possible
to samples collected for benthic community analysis. Only samples with at least a 5 in
(12 cm) penetration depth and an undisturbed sediment-water interface were retained for
analysis. In the field, notes were taken to describe basic substrate character, smell, and
presence or absence of seafood waste debris. A subsample of the top 1 in (2 cm) of
sediment was collected and analyzed in the laboratory for grain size, total organic carbon
(TOC), N-N, TKN, oil and grease, and sulfides. In addition to quantitative samples,
approximately 32 qualitative sediment samples were collected with either the Van Veen grab
or a 3 in diameter gravity corer (Appendix H). These qualitative samples were inspected
in the field, the character (texture, smell, color, presence of seafood waste, or presence of
organisms) of the substrates was noted, and the sample was discarded. The locations of the
sites were determined with a geographical positioning system (GPS).
Benthic sediment samples collected from the harbor in 1983 (EPA 1984b) and 1992
consisted typically of brown, stiff silts. Sediment chemistry data collected during 1992 are
presented in Table 8. Sediments at Station S-7A, the station closest to and directly west of
the Trident Seafoods outfall, contained the highest concentrations of TOC, TKN, oil and
grease, and sulfides. Sediments collected at Station S-2, the station closest to the
M/V Deep Sea, contained the second highest concentrations of these sediment constituents.
The concentrations of TOC and sulfide at Station S-7A were nearly double the
concentrations at Station S-2, and 3 times and 10 times greater than TOC and sulfide
concentrations found at other background stations, respectively. The concentration of oil
and grease was more than 8 times greater at Station S-7A than at Station S-2, and nearly
9 times greater than at other background stations (except Station S-6, where concentrations
were 5 times less than at Station S-7A). It is apparent from these data that discharges from
these two facilities have influenced the sediment chemistry in surrounding areas.
The scope of the April 1992 field studies included opportunistic sampling of
sediments in the vicinity of transient floating processors in the harbor. However, when the
study team arrived in Akutan, most of the floating processors, with the exception of the
M/V Deep Sea and the M/V Clipperton, had either left or were preparing to leave the
harbor. The general area where some of the processors operated was known, but specific
43
-------
Table 8. Sediment Quality Parameters for Akutan Harbor, April 1992
Total Total Nitrate Total Oil
Organic Kjeldahl and and Total
Carbon Nitrogen Nitrite Grease Sulfides
Station (%) (Mg/g) (Mg/g) (Mg/g) (mg/kg)
S-l
1.2
960
<0.08
20
55
S-2
1.7
1,400
0.54
48
220
S-3
0.97
1,100
0.26
77
34
S-5
0.92
860
0.16
47
14
S-6
1.2
920
0.22
160
20
S-7
0.74
1,100
<0.05
<5
23
S-7A
3.9
1,900
<0.09
910
570
S-8
0.74
1,100
<0.05
50
27
S-8A
1.7
810
0.18
<5
64
S-9
0.82
1,000
0.15
22
14
S-10
0.82
970
0.08
42
12
S-10A
0.65
580
0.08
35
10
S-ll
0.68
950
0.17
110
16
S-12
0.30
550
0.05
33
8
S-13
0.59
450
0.07
90
36
S-POl
1.2
350
<0.06
35
17
S-P02
3.8
1,300
1.5
120
18
Mg/g = micrograms per gram
mg/kg = milligrams per kilogram
44
-------
sites could not be identified, and additional quantitative sediment samples were not
collected. The M/V Clipperton had been operating at the same location in the harbor for
most of the 1991/1992 crab season. The M/V Clipperton had been anchored at the bow
and stern, and therefore discharged to the same immediate area throughout the season,
similar to the M/V Deep Sea. The closest station to the M/V Clipperton was Station S-6.
Sediments from this station contained elevated levels of TOC and oil and grease. However,
other indicators of organic pollution such as TKN and sulfides were within the range of
other background stations.
The concentration of TOC increased from a mean of 0.21% (June 1983, background
station data) to a mean of 0.88% (April 1992, data from Stations 1 to 13). However,
September 1983 data for the same background stations were not significantly different from
the 1992 observations. The organic carbon enrichment reported in 1983 from the inner
harbor background stations was also apparent in 1992. In 1992, the TOC was 1.07% in the
inner harbor (Stations 1 to 8) and 0.64% in the outer harbor (Stations 9 to 13).
Sediment quality data were collected at Stations S-BPO and S-P03 to characterize
sediment near the location of the proposed Deep Sea Fisheries outfall site. Sediments from
these two stations were quite different in character. Station S-BPO contained substantially
higher concentrations of TOC, TKN, and oil and grease. It is possible that the sample at
Station S-BPO may have been collected at the site of an old waste pile or an area affected
by activities at the whaling station.
Benthic Community Structure. A 0.1 m2 Van Veen grab was used to sample benthic
invertebrates in Akutan Harbor. The benthic samples were collected as close as possible
to the locations of the sediment chemistry samples and the inner harbor sites (Stations 1
through 3 and Stations 5 through 13) sampled in 1983 (Figure 16).
The locations of all stations were determined with a GPS. The benthic invertebrate
stations were within 50 to 300 ft (15 to 91 m) of the corresponding sediment sampling
stations (with the exception of Station B-5, which was located approximately 500 ft [152 m]
from Station S-5). All infaunal samples were washed through 0.2 in (5 mm) and 0.04 in
(1 mm) screens to collect organisms. When practical, infaunal organisms collected on the
screens were sorted into major taxonomic categories (Polychaeta, Mollusca, Crustacea,
Echinodermata, and miscellaneous taxa) in the field, and preserved in a 10% buffered
formalin solution.
Infaunal samples were identified to the lowest practical taxonomic level and
enumerated by Marine Taxonomic Services. In addition, an outside taxonomic expert
(Dr. Jerry Kudenov, University of Alaska) performed the quality assurance/quality control
(QA/QC) by recounting 20% of the samples and verifying species identification.
Dr Kndp.nnv akn conducted the taxonomic work on polychaetes during the 1983 studies.
45
-------
-------
The 1992 benthic sampling studies revealed significant changes in the composition,
diversity, and abundance of benthic organisms in Akutan Harbor since 1983. The
numerically dominant benthic species in 1992 included the lumbrinerid polychaete
Lumbrineris luti, the sigalionid polychaete Pholoe minuta, the ampharetid polychaete
Glyphanostomum nr. pallescens, a capitellid polychaete of the Capitella capitata species
complex, and the thyasirid bivalve Axinopsida serricata (Appendix I). In contrast, a spionid
polychaete {Boccardia nr. poly bronchia) was the most numerically abundant organism in the
inner harbor benthic community in 1983. Other common species found in 1983 included
Lumbrineris luti, a scalibregmid polychaete (Scalibregma inflatum), and a tellinid bivalve
(.Macoma moesta) (EPA 1984b). The dominant lumbrinerid polychaete found in 1983 was
tentatively identified as Ninoe simpla in the 1983 survey report (EPA 1984b), but has since
been definitely identified as Lumbrineris luti (Kudenov pers. comm.).-
The abundance, number of species, and diversity of polychaetes in samples increased
dramatically between 1983 and 1992 (Table 9). The average number of polychaetes per
sample increased from 608/m2 in 1983, to an average density of 2,395/m2 in 1992
(Figure 17). The average number of species per sample increased from 8.9 in 1983 to 23.5
in 1992. The Shannon-Wiener diversity index (H') increased from an average of 1.214 in
1983 to 2.219 in 1992. The abundance and diversity of benthic organisms at all stations
except Stations B-7A and B-P02 were similar. These two stations were located near the
Trident Seafoods outfall and the proposed Deep Sea Fisheries outfall location, respectively,
and were represented by two species and only three individuals. However, two other
stations located near the proposed outfall (B-POl and B-BPO) were similar in terms of
abundance and diversity to other background sites in the harbor.
The cause of such a dramatic increase in the abundance and diversity of benthic
organisms between 1983 and 1992 cannot be defined with certainty. However, Pearson and
Rosenberg (1978) and Pearson et al. (1986) considered fluctuations in organic input to be
one of the principal causes of faunal change in nearshore benthic environments. Their work
has shown that a succession of benthic macrofaunal species occurs along a gradient of
organic enrichment. In areas of high organic enrichment, the populations are composed of
rapidly breeding, short-lived and opportunistic species. As enrichment decreases, the fauna
shifts toward a more complex group of species adapted to maintaining themselves in a
competitive, biologically controlled community.
The changes seen between 1983 and 1992 in Akutan Harbor suggest the benthic
community is responding to the harborwide increase in organic loading (described earlier)
with increases in species number and densities of benthic fauna. Some of these increases
may be attributable to the recruitment of opportunistic species, which were either not
present or were present in low numbers in 1983 (for example, Capitella capitata). The
increased abundance of these species and of Glyphanostomum in the inner harbor indicates
organic enrichment has had a modifying influence on the benthic community. When
enrichment is extreme, such as on the waste piles and surrounding areas of fine particle
deposition (see ROV observations, below), benthic diversity and density are greatly reduced.
Elsewhere, benthic recruitment and production in the inner harbor appear to be stimulated
by organic enrichment, without, as yet, a decline in diversity.
47
-------
Table 9. Shannon-Wiener Diversity Indices (H'), Number of Species, and
Number of Individual Polychaetes Found in Akutan Harbor, 1983 and 1992
Number of
Number of
H'
Species
Individuals
Station
1983
1992
1983
1992
1983
1992
Background
B-l
1.329
2.666
11
34
67
391
B-2
1.020
1.607
10
16
104
199
B-3
1.362
1.626
9
15
66
129
B-5
0.990
2.159
4
26
52
368
B-6
0
2.162
1
17
38
162
B-7
1.279
2.008
9
14
48
62
B-8
1.347
2.294
8
24
73
309
B-9
1.339
2.683
8
26
41
134
B-10
1.445
1.756
14
26
76
258
B-ll
1.088
2.580
10
25
63
149
B-12
1.656
2.338
15
37
82
412
B-13
1.708
2.746
8
23
20
301
Proposed Outfall Site
B-BPO
--
2.230
-
30
--
225
B-POl
-
2.174
~
31
--
339
B-P02
--
0
-
2
--
3
Other
B-7A
-
0
-
2
-
3
B-8A
--
2.028
-
20
--
179
B-10A
—
2.580
—
33
—
251
-- = station not sampled in
1983
48
-------
1983
1992
w
CO
3
¦g
>
C
©
E
3
6 7 8 9 10 11 12
Station Location
I
Mean
(/)
©
o
a>
d
CO
©
n
E
3
5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13
Station Location
Mean
X
CD
"O
c
>s
.ts
to
a>
>
¦in
n
2.5-
2-
i:i
III
1.5-
*
¦:!!
1-
0.5-
I:
m\\
0-
i
5 6 7 8 9 10 11 12 13
Station Location
i
Mean
Figure 17. Comparison of Number of Individuals, Number of Species,
and Shannon-Wiener Diversity Indices for Polychaetes
Found in Akutan Harbor, Alaska
49
-------
Remotely Operated Vehicle Video Observations. ROV transects were completed at
10 locations in Akutan Harbor (Figure 18). A variety of bottom types and depths were
surveyed, ranging from outer harbor, deep water sites with soft sediments (ROV-1) to
shallow water sites with crab waste piles (ROV-3 and ROV-7). A detailed summary of the
ROV observations is provided in Appendix J.
The ROV surveys were completed using a Deep Ocean Engineering Model Phantom
300, with video observations recorded on 8 mm and VHS format tapes. Also taped were
the comments of a narrator on key bottom features, depth, timing, etc. The quality of the
underwater video was generally very good and the wide-angle lens of the camera produced
sharp color images from a distance of a few inches to 5 to 10 ft (1.5 to 3 m).
Each transect was completed by holding the boat at a fixed location and swimming
or "flying" the ROV over a 1 to 10 ft (0.3 to 3 m) wide by 100 to 300 ft (30 to 91 m) long
area of the bottom. Initially it was planned to swim the machine over a marked leadline
on the bottom. However, a combination of high surface winds, sometimes extremely turbid
conditions on the bottom, and burial of the leadline in the sediments made it impossible to
follow the line. All transects were subsequently completed by maintaining a fixed compass
heading at the ROV and tracking the location of the machine by observing the location of
buoys attached to the ROV power cord. More detailed information on video timing and
transect coordinates and a qualitative report of the ROV observations are given in
Appendix J.
Evidence of human disturbance was visible at all transects. There was scattered crab
waste and litter in the outer harbor, with little or no impact on the benthos. Nearshore
portions of the inner harbor (i.e., near the whaling station and inshore from the M/V Deep
Sea [Stations ROV-3, ROV-4, and ROV-5]) had the most diverse benthic macrofauna, and
they were the only areas where any benthic algae were seen. The whaling station transect
(ROV-5) was heavily littered with the debris of past commercial and military activities.
Localized disruption and elimination of benthic fauna and broader changes to the benthic
community were associated with the crab waste piles near the M/V Deep Sea and
M/V Clipperton. Fish waste and large-scale discharges of crab waste from the Trident
Seafoods processing plant appeared to have the greatest impact on the benthos. These
significant effects extended for a considerable distance beyond the immediate area of
Trident Seafoods' outfall.
Pelagic and Surface Environments
Akutan Island is located near the center of one of the most productive fishing
grounds in the world. Vast resources of demersal fish (e.g., pollock, cod) occur in the
southeastern Bering Sea. Salmon, halibut, crab, and shrimp are or have been historically
abundant in the nearshore zone. Marine mammals, waterfowl, and pelagic birds are
abundant, with large colonies of nesting birds occurring on many of the smaller islands in
the region.
50
-------
Figure 18. Locations of Remotely Operated Vehicle Survey Transects in 1992, Akutan Harbor, Alaska
-------
The great fisheries of the Bering Sea and Gulf of Alaska, and the biological
productivity of Akutan Harbor, stem from the high production of phytoplankton and
zooplankton. While sampling for phytoplankton and zooplankton was not included in the
1992 survey, a wide variety of these organisms are known to be seasonally important in the
waters surrounding the Aleutian Islands. Upwelling associated with the Alaska Coastal
Current and local upwelling produced by water movement through the Aleutian passes play
an important role in maintaining phytoplankton production, especially during summer
months (Sambrotto and Lorenzen 1987). Zooplankton, which are largely supported by the
phytoplankton populations, are dominated by small crustaceans; fish, bivalve, and
echinoderm larvae; and jellyfish. These animals are important in the production of adult
stocks (i.e., for shrimp and finfish) and serve as forage for fishes, shellfishes, marine birds,
and mammals (Cooney 1987).
Fish sampling in Akutan Harbor in 1983 was limited to the shallow littoral zone.
During July 1983, juvenile pink salmon (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha) and sand lance
(Ammodytes hexapterus) were the major species captured in beach seines (EPA 1984a).
Other fishes included coho salmon (Oncorhynchus kisutch), Pacific tomcod (Microgadus
proximus), flatfishes, sculpins, and Dolly Varden (Salvelirtus malma). In the deeper areas
of the harbor, daubed shanny (Lumpenus maculatus) were observed to be abundant by
underwater video camera. Based on subsistence harvests, herring (Clupea harengus pallasi)
and Pacific cod (Gadus macrocephalus) inhabit the harbor area. Rock sole (Lepidopsetta
bilineata), arrowtooth flounder (Atheresthes stomias), and pollock are expected to be
abundant in the outer harbor.
Marine mammals common in or near Akutan Harbor are primarily harbor seals
(Phoca vitulina), Steller sea lions (Eumetopias jubatus), and sea otters (Enhydra lutris). Sea
lion haulout areas near Akutan Harbor include an islet off the north coast of Rootok Island;
Akun Head on the north shore of Akun Island; and North Head, the shore from Reef Bight
to Lava Point, and Cape Morgan on Akutan Island (see Figure 1). Sea otters and sea lions
were frequently observed in Akutan Harbor during the 1992 survey.
Intertidal and Shallow Subtidal Environments
The intertidal and nearshore shallow subtidal bottom areas in Akutan Harbor may
be impacted by floating or drift materials driven shoreward by waves and winds. These
areas were surveyed, in part, by the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service in July 1983 (U.S. Fish
and Wildlife Service 1983). Floating debris, oil, fish waste, and other pollutants have been
identified as being of concern to the Akutan community and EPA.
Qualitative epifaunal and semi-quantitative infaunal intertidal and shallow subtidal
surveys were performed in Akutan Harbor during an ebbing -0.55 ft (-1.7 m) MLLW tide
on April 10, 1992. The surveys were conducted to visually assess physical conditions,
habitats, biological communities, and anthropogenic impacts on beach habitats and
communities. During the survey, the upper (2 to 4 ft [0.6 to 1.2 m] MLLW) and
52
-------
middle/lower (0 to 2 ft [0 to 0.6 m] MLLW) intertidal areas were exposed and assessments
were made while walking through the study area. Extreme lower intertidal and shallow
subtidal areas were surveyed by wading.
Nine survey stations were examined during the 1992 survey (Figure 19). Five stations
(Stations IT-1 to IT-5) were located along the southern shore, Station IT-9 was located on
the northern shore near the mouth of the harbor, and Stations IT-6 to IT-8 were located
along the eastern shore at the head of the harbor. Survey Stations IT-1, IT-2, IT-3, IT-6,
IT-8, and IT-9 were beaches located at the mouths of streams. Station IT-4 was located at
the site of the abandoned whaling station, which is currently being used as a materials
storage area. Station IT-5 was located near the proposed Deep Sea Fisheries site, and
Station IT-7 was located at the apex of the harbor.
Infaunal organisms were sampled from beaches containing primarily small substrates
(i.e., gravel, sand, and silt). Infaunal samples were collected by randomly placing a
2.7-square-foot (0.25 m2) quadrat on the ground and using a shovel to excavate the substrate
down approximately 1 ft (0.3 m). Excavated substrates were collected and separated from
organisms by sieving them through a 0.25 in (6.3 mm) sieve. Areas sampled included upper
to middle/lower intertidal areas. Extreme lower intertidal areas were inundated during the
survey.
It was noted during previous studies in Akutan Harbor (Crayton pers. comm.) that
oil residues were found within the intertidal zone on the sand/gravel beaches at the head
of the harbor. Five sediment samples (IT7-A through IT7-E) were collected along the
continuous sand/gravel beach that encompasses survey Stations IT-6, IT-7, and IT-8 on April
10, 1992 (Figure 20). Samples were stored in glass jars lined with freon and analyzed for
total petroleum hydrocarbons.
In addition to chemical analysis, sediments from each hydrocarbon sample were
sieved to determine grain size distribution. Sediments were sorted into three size classes:
gravel or larger (>2 mm), sand (0.063 mm to 2 mm), and silt or smaller (<0.063 mm).
Physical Conditions and Habitats
Stations IT-1, IT-6, IT-7, and IT-8 consisted of sand/gravel beaches located at or near
the mouths of relatively low gradient streams (Figure 19). Scattered cobbles were also
found at Stations IT-1 and IT-6. Stations IT-3, IT-4, and IT-5 contained primarily cobble
substrates with some gravel at Station IT-3. Substrates at Stations IT-2 and IT-9 consisted
of bedrock and boulders at lower elevations and cobbles and boulders in the upper and
middle intertidal zones. Bedrock was also found at Stations IT-1 and IT-8 where the
streams had cut against the valley wall. Former channels, now dry, were evident near the
mouths of both of these streams.
Beach slopes were very shallow at the head of the harbor, especially at Station IT-6
(1 to 2%), but became progressively steeper toward the most eastern sampling locations.
Beach angles were approximately 10% at Stations IT-1 and IT-9.
53
-------
-------
Figure 20. Location of Intertidal Sediment Sampling Stations in 1992,
Akutan Harbor, Alaska
55
-------
The surrounding uplands rapidly gained elevation from most of the sample sites.
Upland slopes ranged from approximately 40° to 45° at Stations IT-1 to IT-5. Slopes
appeared stable and well vegetated, with native grasses along the southern shoreline, and
probably contribute little material to the beaches. The upland at Station IT-4 was the site
of the abandoned whaling station and is currently used as a storage area for crab harvesting
gear. The site was graded level at approximately +20 ft ( + 6.1 m) MLLW. The upland
slope at Station IT-9 was approximately 80°. A cutbank was formed at the extreme upper
supralittoral zone where erosion has occurred, probably during strong winter storms from
the south. Above the cutbank, slopes were well vegetated.
Uplands sloped back at gentle gradients from sample stations at the head of the
harbor (IT-6 to IT-8). Upland slopes ranged from approximately 2° to 6°. Uplands were
well vegetated with low growing shrubs and native grasses at this site.
Sediment grain size analysis from samples taken at Stations IT-6, IT-7, and IT-8
revealed beach sediments to be composed primarily of sand. The sand component of each
sample ranged from 60.6 to 85.7% by weight (Table 10). Gravel or larger sized substrates
ranged from 8.4 to 34.2% of the weight of each sample. Silt/clay accounted for 1.1 to 7.7%
of the sample weight, with the largest portion of the silt/clay group always between
0.033 and 0.063 mm in size.
Epibenthic Communities
Sand/gravel beaches (Stations IT-1, IT-6, IT-7, and IT-8) appeared nearly devoid of
epibenthic macroinvertebrates and plants. Station IT-6, however, had a few mussels growing
on the cobble-sized rocks scattered on the beach. Beach debris at all stations included crab
and shrimp exoskeletons and shell debris. Rocky beaches were much more productive.
Dense colonies of brown alga (Alaria sp.), to 100% coverage, dominated the upper
subtidal/lower intertidal zones. Other brown algae and a green alga (Ulva sp.) were also
present. Algal density decreased with increased elevation. The extreme upper intertidal
zone was inhabited by only occasional filamentous green algae. Mid-intertidal areas were
dominated by a mixture of Fucus sp. (to 100% coverage) and other brown algae. Red algae
were also observed occasionally on rocky beaches.
Yellow encrusting sponges were found ubiquitously in the lower intertidal/shallow
subtidal zones on rocky substrates. Other animals inhabiting this zone included juvenile
shrimp, mussels, isopods, limpets, snails, and barnacles. Mussels were more abundant in the
mid-intertidal zone than in lower zones. Snails, limpets, and barnacles were also found in
the mid-intertidal zone in all rocky habitats.
56
-------
Table 10. Beach Sediment Grain Size Distribution by Percent Weight from
Samples Taken at the Head of Akutan Harbor
Sample Station Grain Size Distribution
(% retention)
Seive Opening
(mm) IT7-A IT7-B IT7-C IT7-D IT7-E
4.75
14.0
3.40
5.20
8.30
2.60
4.00
2.00
2.90
3.60
2.40
0.40
2.00
18.2
13.8
22.2
20.6
5.40
1.00
25.7
32.9
30.0
39.3
27.2
0.50
26.6
15.5
18.8
18.3
44.5
0.25
7.60
20.3
15.2
3.60
12.6
0.125
0.50
9.60
3.60
0.30
1.40
0.063
0.20
0.50
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
0.032
5.00
0.90
1.30
7.10
5.80
0.016
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
0.008
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
0.004
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
0.002
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
0.001
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.001
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
<0.1
mm = millimeter
57
-------
Stratification of the mid-intertidal zone was more pronounced at Station IT-4 (the
whaling station) than at other stations. This zone was stratified into two distinct
communities. The upper mid-intertidal zone was dominated by Fucus sp. (to 100%
coverage). The lower mid-intertidal zone contained dense beds of mussels that covered
approximately 80% of the substrate. Snails and limpets were also found with the mussel
colony. In addition, many polychaete worms were found interstitially among the mussels at
this site, but were not observed in other intertidal areas surveyed.
Infauna Communities
Infaunal organisms were found at only one of the nine stations sampled. Three
juvenile mussels were found after talcing two samples at Station IT-6. Samples taken at
other locations were barren. It can be speculated that low densities of infaunal organisms
were a result of the harsh intertidal environment on the sand/sand-gravel beaches.
Substrates are probably alternately degraded and aggraded during and following severe
storm events, especially at Station IT-1. A constantly changing beach morphology provides
poor habitat for sustained colonization and growth by infaunal organisms.
Station IT-6 appeared to provide the best habitat for infaunal species. Deposition
of materials from the stream flowing through the site formed a shallow, sloping alluvial fan.
The relatively high silt component (>5% by weight) and freshwater intrusion were
conducive to colonization by bivalves. Although sampling at this station revealed a density
of 1.5 mussels per sample, habitat conditions warranted a higher abundance of organisms.
It is possible that the lack of infaunal organisms at this site was pollution-related. An oily
sheen was observed during sampling, and subsequent testing revealed that surficial
sediments contain fairly high levels of petroleum hydrocarbons (see Hydrocarbon Analysis,
below).
Hydrocarbon Analysis
Total petroleum hydrocarbons in five beach sediment samples collected at the head
of the harbor ranged from 47 to 120 micrograms per gram (Mg/g) (Figure 20).
Samples IT7-B and IT7-D were collected in the upper intertidal zone. Samples IT7-A,
IT7-C, and IT7-E were collected in the middle to lower intertidal zones. No background
or reference stations were sampled for petroleum hydrocarbons. Distribution of petroleum
hydrocarbons among sampling locations did not result in a definable pattern (Table 11).
It appeared, however, that petroleum hydrocarbons were more likely to wash ashore at the
south and north ends of the beach than at the center. In addition, because of the close
proximity of Sample IT7-D to IT7-E and the higher petroleum hydrocarbon concentration
found in the former, it could be hypothesized that petroleum hydrocarbons are continually
lifted out of lower intertidal sections of the beach and transported higher in the intertidal
zone, resulting in higher levels therein.
58
-------
Table 11. Total Petroleum Hydrocarbon Levels Found
at Intertidal Sediment Sampling Stations
in 1992, Akutan Harbor, Alaska
Total Petroleum
Station Hydrocarbon
Number (Mg/g)
IT7-A
93
IT7-B
75
IT7-C
47
IT7-D
120
IT7-E
73
/ig/g = micrograms per gram
59
-------
Freshwater Environments
Discharge levels of six streams entering Akutan Harbor were measured with a Marsh-
McBirney Model 201D electromagnetic flow meter on April 9 and 11, 1992 (Figure 21).
AU freshwater streams flowing into the harbor were small. Stream discharge levels
ranged from approximately 0.012 to 2.63 cubic feet per second (cfs), or 0.0004 to 0.08 cubic
meter per second (m3/s). The discharge within each stream and the relative discharge levels
between streams were quite different from previous measurements taken in July 1983 (EPA
1984b). The largest stream, draining to the northwest corner of the head of the harbor
(Stream 4), had an estimated flow of 27 cfs (0.8 m3/s) in June 1983. Most of the upland
areas were covered with snow during the 1992 survey, resulting in a much lower discharge
pattern than previously measured.
There are 15 streams which empty to Akutan Harbor. Of these, only one stream is
known to support fish. The stream at the northwest corner of the harbor (Stream 4) is
cataloged by the Alaska Department of Fish and Game as an anadromous fish stream. The
stream is small, with a base flow at the time of the survey of 2 cfs, and highly sinuous. In
August 1982, approximately 10,500 adult pink salmon were observed in the stream (EPA
1984a). Coho salmon and Dolly Varden are also reported to spawn in the stream. Based
on pre-emergence studies in the Shumagin Islands, pink salmon fry probably begin to
emerge from the gravel and enter the harbor in early April. Pink salmon may also spawn
in the stream at the southeast corner of the harbor (Stream 2); however, pink salmon use
of Stream 2 is unconfirmed.
Terrestrial Environments
Soils
Akutan Island is volcanic in origin, and the soils in the vicinity of the proposed
facilities are derived from weathered volcanic rock and ash. The slopes above the proposed
Deep Sea Fisheries site are primarily exposed rock or reddish, sandy soil deeply incised by
small, swift streams.
Vegetation
Akutan Island is treeless. The valley at the head of the fjord is occupied by tundra
and riparian vegetation. Vegetation in the vicinity of the proposed Deep Sea Fisheries site
is composed of a thick mat of heath (Ericaceae sp.) or dry tundra. Wetland vegetation is
not present on the proposed site.
60
-------
Figure 21. Location of Stream Flow Measurement Stations and Associated Discharge Levels
Found in April 1992, Akutan Harbor, Alaska
-------
Wildlife
Wildlife on the island is composed primarily of birds and small mammals (e.g., voles,
shrews, and foxes). Wildlife most commonly observed on Akutan Island includes eagles,
ptarmigans, various songbird species, and foxes (City of Akutan 1982).
Approximately 50% of the Alaskan population of whiskered auklet (Aethia pygmaea)
and about 45% of the Alaskan population of tufted puffin (Fratercula cirrhata) occur in the
Fox Island group. No major nesting colonies are located along the shores of Akutan
Harbor, but a small nesting colony of cormorants (Phalacrocorax spp.) and tufted puffins
occupies Akutan Point, and a high-density tufted puffin colony occurs on "North Island" in
Akun Strait.
Threatened and Endangered Species
The two listed bird species that occur in the Aleutian Islands are the threatened
Aleutian Canada goose (Branta canadensis leucopareia) and the endangered short-tailed
albatross (Diomeda albatross) (Anderson pers. comm.). The Aleutian Canada goose nests
in the Aleutian Islands, but sightings east of the Islands of the Four Mountains are not
common, and migrations do not appear to occur in the vicinity of Akutan. The short-tailed
albatross has been making a slow comeback, but sightings have been primarily in the
western Aleutians (U.S. Department of Interior 1985). Bald eagles (Haliaeetus
leucocephalus) are common on Akutan Island and reportedly nest near Akutan Point
(Crayton 1983). This species, however, is not designated as an endangered species in
Alaska. Nonmigratory Peale's peregrine falcons (Falco peregrinus pealei) are relatively
abundant in the Aleutian Islands, but this subspecies is not considered endangered.
Steller sea lions (Eumetopias jubatus), a species listed as threatened under the
Endangered Species Act, are common in the harbor and surrounding waters (Smith peis.
comm.). During the surveys in 1992, sea lions were observed in the harbor, but no haulout
areas were noted. Harbor seals (Phoca vitulina) are also present in the harbor, but they are
not presently listed as threatened or endangered.
Large numbers of sea otters (Enhydra lutris) were observed feeding on crab in Akutan
Harbor during the April 1992 studies. Sea otters, however, are not considered threatened
or endangered in Alaska.
The bowhead whale (Balaena mysticetus), right whale (Balaena glacialis), fin whale
(Balaenoptera physalus), sei whale (Balaenoptera borealis), blue whale (Balaenoptera
musculus), humpback whale (Megaptera novaeangliae), gray whale (Eschrichtius robustus), and
sperm whale (Physeter macrocephalus) are listed as endangered species and may occur in the
region. With the possible exception of the gray and humpback whales, most of these species
are typically found offshore, and therefore are not likely to be found in Akutan Harbor.
Gray whale migration corridors generally are found in more easterly passages through the
62
-------
Aleutian Islands. Both gray and humpback whales may remain in the vicinity of Akutan
Harbor throughout the summer, but they are unlikely to enter the harbor.
Thus, the only threatened or endangered species expected to be found in the vicinity
of the proposed Deep Sea Fisheries site is the Steller sea lion.
Land Use
In 1878/1879, several Aleut families and groups moved from other islands in the area
and established the community of Akutan. The community occupies approximately 5.5 acres
(2.2 hectares) of relatively flat land lying between the harbor and steep slopes along the
northern shore. In response to rapid expansion of the seafood processing industry's use of
Akutan Harbor, the village of Akutan was incorporated as a second class city in late 1979.
In 1912, the Pacific Whaling Company built a processing station near the head of the
harbor along the southern shore and operated it until 1942. The gently rising slopes on
which the station stood are now used by fishermen for storage of crab pots during the off-
season. A small marine bench, located across the harbor from the Trident Seafoods plant,
is also used to store crab pots.
Floating seafood processors began using Akutan Harbor in the late 1940s.
Permanent mooring buoys are located in the inner harbor. The M/V Deep Sea has been
permanently moored in the southwest corner of the harbor for over a decade. In 1981,
Trident Seafoods began construction of a shore-based seafood processing facility on its
present site, about 0.5 mile (0.8 km) west of the community of Akutan. The present site is
privately owned and leased to Trident Seafoods.
Approximately 50 acres (20 hectares) of lowlands at the head of the harbor are under
the city's jurisdiction. These lowlands are approximately 2 miles (3.2 km) west of the City
of Akutan and immediately adjacent to the proposed facility site. The city's 1982
comprehensive plan designated this area for future community growth and development.
Currently, the head of the harbor is accessible only by skiff, by foot over rough, steep
terrain, or along exposed beachline at low tide. Development of the proposed Deep Sea
Fisheries facility would allow immediate access to this area.
A seaplane ramp was recently constructed west of the City of Akutan. The
community has also recently replaced the city dock.
The site for the Deep Sea Fisheries facilities would be leased from the Akutan
Village Corporation. Construction and operation of the proposed facilities would not result
in significant change to allowable land use.
63
-------
Socioeconomics
The municipal boundary of Akutan includes the Aleut Native community that
inhabits the village and the transient workers associated with the seafood processing
industry. Of the latter, workers at the Trident Seafoods facility and the M/V Deep Sea are
the least transient. Historically, the policy has been to discourage frequent social interaction
between the two communities (City of Akutan 1982).
Between 1890 and 1980, the population of the City of Akutan has ranged from 60 to
107, indicating a fairly stable community. The 1980 census showed 17 households in Akutan
and a population of 69 (City of Akutan 1982). A population of 589 was reported in 1992
(Alaska Municipal League 1992). This figure included the seasonal work force at Trident
Seafoods. The economy of the community is mixed cash and subsistence; incomes are
derived from work on seafood processors and fishing vessels and indirectly from a fish tax
assessed by the city on business in the harbor.
Public Services
Primary and secondary education for the residents of the City of Akutan is funded
by the State of Alaska. The city and the state (through the Aleutian Pribilof Island
Association) fund a full-time village public safety officer. Alascom provides phone service
for general public use, and federal funds support infrequent visits by a physician from the
Alaska Native Hospital. The traditional council method of government has existed in
Akutan since the community was established.
Archaeological and Cultural Resources
Although few archaeological surveys have occurred near Akutan Harbor, seven
historic sites and an apparent prehistoric site have been identified (Lobdell pers. comm.).
These include several village sites, the Russian Orthodox church, and the shore-based
whaling station. The Trident Seafoods facility has occupied and modified essentially all
available flat land on the marine terrace on which it is located. The existing topography at
the proposed Deep Sea Fisheries site is located in an area with steep slopes which were
historically less habitable than other areas in the harbor. Thus, undisturbed archaeological
or historical resources are not expected to be encountered on the proposed Deep Sea
Fisheries site.
64
-------
ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS OF THE PROPOSED ACTION
The Deep Sea Fisheries shore-based facilities proposal includes the construction and
operation of crab and finfish processing facilities, a fish meal plant, cold storage, dry storage,
and fuel docks. Support facilities would include a powerhouse, maintenance shop,
incinerator, gear storage, ship stores, offices, housing, and recreation and food service
facilities. The facilities will be built in phases. The crab processing line is expected to be
operational by the 1993/1994 crabbing season. Other facilities are expected to be
completed and operational in an additional 1 to 2 years.
The construction of the facility will necessitate a 672,000-cubic-yard excavation of a
previously undisturbed site and filling approximately 18 acres of previously undisturbed
intertidal and subtidal habitats. The operation of the facility will include the discharge of
crab and finfish processing wastewater, solid waste from crab processing, stickwater and
scrubber water from the fish meal plant, bailwater, sanitary wastewater, and stormwater.
Potential construction phase and operational impacts of the proposed action on the
environment are discussed below.
Construction Phase Impacts
Air Quality and Noise
During the construction of the facility, heavy construction equipment will be
operating in the harbor. Operation of this equipment could temporarily impact air quality
in the harbor; however, because of the prevailing winds in the area and the temporary
nature of the work, these impacts are considered to be less than significant.
Some blasting will be required to regrade the slopes. A light concussion will occur,
and a short-term, high level of dust may occur after each blast. An experienced explosives
specialist will be retained to perform the blasting and to minimize hazards. In addition,
Deep Sea Fisheries is required under the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps) Section
404 Permit to prepare a blasting plan to ensure no disturbance occurs to bald eagles or
marine mammals. The effects of blasting are not expected to be significant outside the
immediate construction area.
Water Quality
The construction of the facility will involve filling approximately 18 acres of intertidal
and subtidal areas. Turbidity associated with filling operations and runoff from exposed
slopes could cause significant temporary impacts on the water quality in the head of the
65
-------
harbor. However, Deep Sea Fisheries will employ proper construction and stormwater
control methods to minimize turbidity impacts on Akutan Harbor, and no significant water
quality impacts are anticipated.
Deep Sea Fisheries' Corps 404 Permit stipulates the following additional mitigation
measures to minimize construction impacts on water quality:
• A silt curtain or similar device must be installed between the riprap dike and the
mainland during fill placement to trap silt-laden water.
• All water containing silts as a result of upland construction activities must be
collected and filtered or the silts allowed to settle prior to its discharge to marine
waters.
• If overburden is to be buried within the fill area, it must be encapsulated within
a filter fiber liner. Bedding material consisting of smooth gravel or sand must
be placed between the rock fill and the filter fabric to maintain the integrity of
the fabric.
In addition, Deep Sea Fisheries will be required to obtain an NPDES general permit
for stormwater discharges during the construction phase, which stipulates the preparation
and implementation of a stormwater pollution prevention plan.
Heightened vessel activity in the inner harbor, and the presence of construction
equipment, would increase the potential for fuel spills in the harbor. To mitigate this
potential, stipulations to Deep Sea Fisheries' Corps 404 Permit require that:
• All fuels, petroleum, and other toxic products stored onsite shall be stored so as
to prevent a spill from entering any ground or surface waters. Any spills shall
be promptly and appropriately mopped up.
• Absorbent materials in sufficient quantity to handle operational spills shall be
on hand at all times for use in the event of a spill.
Marine Pelagic Environments
Short-term impacts on salmon could occur during the construction phase of the
project. Increased turbidity could affect the health of salmonids and their food supply
during the construction phase. Assuming that proper methods are used to contain fine
sediments (Corps 404 Permit stipulations) during the filling operation, and appropriate
construction windows are used (no construction during periods of juvenile outmigration),
impacts on salmonids should be less than significant.
Construction of the facility will significantly alter the shoreline in the vicinity of the
salmon stream at the head of the harbor. However, the placement of riprap and piers
should provide juvenile salmon with cover during outmigration periods and should not
66
-------
impair the movement of adult salmon returning to the stream to spawn. In addition, partial
mitigation for the loss of habitat was included in the Corps 404 Permit. Mitigation included
the enhancement of the salmon-bearing stream (Stream 4) at the head of the harbor.
Intertidal Environments
A total of approximately 18 acres of natural intertidal and subtidal habitats will be
eliminated by the planned filling activity in the harbor. Mitigation for unavoidable adverse
impacts on intertidal and subtidal habitats has been addressed in Deep Sea Fisheries' Corps
404 Permit, which has authorized Deep Sea Fisheries to proceed with the construction of
the facility. Negotiation between Deep Sea Fisheries and the Corps led to changes in the
facility design to minimize impacts where possible. This included reduction in sheet pile
construction and placement of riprap slopes under the slips and around the facility to
provide rocky habitat and cover for fish. Mitigation stipulations in the Corps 404 Permit
included monetary and in-kind contributions totaling $100,000 for both water quality studies
and a stream enhancement project in the harbor.
Sedimentation associated with filling activities could impact surrounding benthic
habitats. However, these impacts would be less than significant because of requirements to
minimize turbidity.
Terrestrial Environments
Construction of the facility will include blasting and excavating 672,000 cubic yards
of earth from the hillside. This would impact approximately 5 acres of terrestrial habitat.
The existing slope is vegetated, but provides little habitat for wildlife. The loss of this area
is not considered significant.
Noise and activity associated with the construction of the facility could temporarily
cause terrestrial and avian wildlife to move from the inner harbor. This impact is
considered temporary and less than significant. Because of the ongoing processing activities
in the harbor, the wildlife appear tolerant of high levels of human activity.
Operational Impacts
The following section describes potential impacts which would be attributable solely
to operation of the proposed Deep Sea Fisheries shore-based seafood processing plant. The
potential for Deep Sea Fisheries to add to cumulative impacts in the harbor is discussed in
the Cumulative Impacts Section.
67
-------
Air Quality and Noise
Deep Sea Fisheries is proposing to install and operate a total of four approximately
2,000 kW diesel generators to provide power to the facility. Boilers, fueled by fish oil
(process by-product) and diesel fuel, will be operated as part of the fish meal production
plant. The facilities will include an incinerator to burn waste oil and combustible refuse,
and various types of machinery will load and unload vessels and move equipment and
materials on and around the site.
Some deterioration of air quality is likely in the vicinity of Deep Sea Fisheries;
however, because of the prevailing winds in the area, the impacts are not expected to be
significant. Deep Sea Fisheries will, however, be required to conduct air quality modeling
of emissions prior to attaining permits from the Alaska Department of Environmental
Conservation, to ensure compliance with state air quality regulations.
Noise emissions from the generators and other fixed machinery, including
refrigeration equipment, will be limited with mufflers in conformance with state and federal
regulations, and equipment will be enclosed.
Water Quality
Wastewater Discharges. Under the proposed action, several waste streams will be
discharged from the facility to Akutan Harbor. These include solid wastes from crab
processing operations; liquid wastes from crab and finfish processing; bailwater; stickwater
and scrubber water from the fish meal plant; sanitary wastewater; and stormwater. Deep
Sea Fisheries proposes to discharge all wastes through a single outfall (primary discharge),
except stormwater and bailwater. Stormwater will be discharged through two separate
surface outfalls located on either side of the facility. Bailwater will be discharged from a
surface outfall on the dock.
Based on the projected production schedule of the proposed facility (see Table 2),
there are two operational periods which warrant evaluation. During the winter, Deep Sea
Fisheries will primarily process crab and pollock with smaller amounts of cod. During the
summer, the facility will process pollock and smaller quantities of salmon, halibut, and cod.
Seasonal differences in harbor conditions and biotic production in the harbor warrant the
evaluation of both periods.
Discharges common to both periods are stormwater and bailwater. Because fish are
transported by pump directly inside the processing building, stormwater should exert
relatively little biological oxygen demand (BOD). BODs loading of bailwater is expected
to consist primarily of fish feces and urine, mucus, scales, and small quantities of tissue
fluids. If bailwater is discharged at the water surface during unloading, it would be expected
to rapidly aerate, dilute, and disperse the organic load. Surface foam can be created by
these bailwater discharges; however, this can be mitigated by discharging beneath the water
surface. Windy conditions in the harbor are also expected to maintain oxygen
concentrations in the surface waters. Water quality impacts from the discharge of bailwater
68
-------
are not expected to be significant. However, a zone of deposit will likely be formed below
the outfall. If Deep Sea Fisheries opts to shunt bailwater to the outfall, any potential
impact at the waterfront would be eliminated. However, shunting bailwater to the outfall
would contribute solids, oil and grease, and BOD to the primary discharge (see Alternatives
Section).
Winter Discharge Scenario. The greatest volumes of waste will be discharged
during the winter, when Deep Sea Fisheries proposes to discharge crab, pollock, and fish
meal processing wastes from the facility simultaneously. The quantities of wastes discharged
for the maximum-rated capacity scenario are based on the facilities' maximum-rated daily
processing capacity for crab (110 t; 100 mt round weight) and pollock (446 t; 405 mt round
weight) (Table 1). This case also assumes that the fish meal plant is operating at maximum-
rated capacity (331 t; 300 mt raw input). Based on these conditions, the daily volume of the
primary discharge would be 9,801,333 gal (37,103,974 1), including sanitary discharges. The
total BOD5 loading to the inner harbor from the primary discharge would be 35,964 lbs
(16,313 kg) per day (439 mg/1). Bailwater, a secondary surface discharge, would also
contribute 167,400 gal (663,678 1) of water and 7,150 lbs (3,243 kg) of BOD5 per day. Thus,
Deep Sea Fisheries' total BODs loading to the inner harbor for the winter scenario would
be 43,114 lbs (19,556 kg) per day. These calculations assume that stormwater discharges
contain relatively insignificant amounts of BOD5.
To determine the potential for water quality impacts of discharges associated with
Deep Sea Fisheries, the Updated Merge (UM) model (Baumgartner et al. 1992) was used
to estimate near-field dilution (initial dilution), trapping depth, and far-field dilution of
effluent parameters. The focus cf this modeling effort was to determine the potential effects
of effluent BOD on ambient dissolved oxygen, and to apply the results to Alaska state water
quality standards as a measure of impact significance. It is assumed in this analysis that the
plant is operating at its maximum-rated capacity (Table 1).
This modeling effort was conducted conservatively. Table 12 describes the
assumptions used to model winter discharges. The model assumes that all solids remain
entrained throughout the simulation. In reality, the bulk of the solids likely settle out of the
effluent plume rather rapidly. The model, therefore, gives the most conservative estimate
of BODs contained in the effluent after initial dilution. The following equation (Mills et
al. 1985) is used to determine the resulting dissolved oxygen (DO) concentration of the
effluent plume after initial dilution:
DOf = DOa +
DO, - IDOD - DOn
e a
where
DOf = final DO concentration (mg/I) of receiving water at the plume's trapping level;
DOa = average ambient DO concentration (mg/1), diffuser depth to the trapping depth;
69
-------
Table 12. Assumptions Used to Model Winter Discharges from
Deep Sea Fisheries' Proposed Outfall
Parameter Assumption
Effluent
Flow 9.8 MGD
BOD5 concentration 439 mg/1
DO content 0 mg/1
BOD decay rate 0
Density 1.030 g/cm3
Outfall
Depth above bottom 20 ft (6.1 m)
Depth below surface 80 ft (24.4 m)
Vertical angle 90°
Diameter 12 in (0.305 m)
Receiving Waters
Stratification none
DO concentration (surface) 13.4 mg/1
DO concentration (outfall depth) 11.9 mg/1
Average DO concentration (outfall to surface) 12.6 mg/1
Temperature (surface) 4°C
Temperature (outfall depth) 2.5°C
Currents (surface) 0.1 m/s
Currents (outfall depth) 0.05 m/s
Density (surface) 1.021 g/cm3
Density (outfall depth) 1.022 g/cm3
70
-------
DOt = DO of effluent (mg/1);
IDOD = immediate DO demand (mg/1); and
Sa = initial dilution.
The immediate dissolved oxygen demand (IDOD) represents the oxygen demand of
reduced substances which are rapidly oxidized during initial dilution. The IDODs of
stickwater and crab and fish waste are not known. As a conservative approach, this analysis
will use 10% and 20% of the effluent BOD5 as values for IDOD. For the winter analysis,
this would equate to IDODs of 43.9 and 87.8 mg/1. The model simulation also assumes that
the effluent contains no DO.
Appendix K contains the modeling results. Table K-l contains the result of the UM
model simulation for the winter discharge conditions. The results indicate that initial
dilution of the plume would occur at an overlap depth of 9.7 m, and at that depth the plume
would be diluted approximately 26:1. The resulting plume centerline concentration of BOD5
at the overlap depth would be 16.9 mg/1. Based on the previous equation (IDOD = 43.9
and 87.8 mg/1), the receiving water DO within the plume at the overlap depth would be
approximately:
12.65 + ([0 - 43.9 - 12.65]/26.17) = 10.5 mg/1
or
12.65 + ([0 - 87.8 - 12.65]/26.17) = 8.9 mg/1.
The far-field models indicate that, once the effluent reached the overlap depth, the
BOD5 concentration would dilute rapidly to less than 6 mg/1 within 2 hr. Based on these
simulations, it does not appear that winter discharges from Deep Sea Fisheries' proposed
outfall would violate Alaska state water quality standards for DO (which state that DO shall
be greater than or equal to 6 mg/1) when the facility is operating at its maximum-rated
capacity. Significant impacts on water quality during winter conditions are not anticipated
based on this modeling effort.
It is possible that the wastes generated by the Deep Sea Fisheries fish processing
facility could exceed the maximum-rated capacity of the fish meal plant. If this were to
occur, Deep Sea Fisheries would be required to increase the capacity of its meal plant or
obtain an ocean dumping permit to dispose of excess solid wastes. If Deep Sea Fisheries'
meal plant can process quantities in excess of its maximum-rated capacity, additional wastes
generated would be discharged through the proposed outfall. To evaluate this possibility,
it was assumed that Deep Sea Fisheries was operating at a level equivalent to production
levels projected for February in Table 2 (124 t [113 mt] of crab and 490 t [444 mt] of
pollock per day). This is considered the maximum seasonal production for winter.
Assuming that there would need to be a proportional increase in water usage, the BOD5
concentration of the effluent discharged from the outfall would be the same as the
maximum-rated capacity scenario, 439 mg/1. However, the volume and resulting discharge
velocities would increase slightly. Results of outfall modeling are presented in Table K-2.
Results indicate that the dilution at the overlap depth would be 28:1, slightly greater than
that resulting from the operation scenario presented above. This analysis indicates that the
additional BOD loading incurred from operating the fish plant at the maximum seasonal
71
-------
production levels presented in Table 2 would not create additional impacts on water quality
in the winter. Even though total BOD5 loading is higher for this second case, the velocity
associated with increased volumes would allow greater dilution at the overlap depth.
Summer Discharge Scenario. During the summer months, Deep Sea Fisheries
proposes to discharge pollock and fish meal processing wastes from the facility
simultaneously. The quantity of wastes discharged at the maximum-rated capacity is based
on the facilities' maximum-rated daily capacity for pollock (446 t; 405 mt round weight) and
assumes that the fish meal plant is operating at full rated capacity (331 t; 300 mt raw input)
(Table 1). Based on these conditions, the daily volume of the primary discharge would be
4,761,833 gal (18,025,499 1), including sanitary discharges. The total BOD5 loading to the
inner harbor from the primary discharge would be 32,479 lbs (14,732 kg) per day (817 mg/1).
Bailwater, a secondary surface discharge, would also contribute 167,400 gal (663,678 1) of
water and 7,150 lbs (3,243 kg) of BOD5 per day. Thus, Deep Sea Fisheries' total BOD5
loading to the inner harbor for the summer scenario would be 39,629 lbs (17,975 kg) per day
at maximum-rated capacity. These calculations assume that stormwater discharges contain
relatively insignificant amounts of BOD5.
The UM model (Baumgartner et al. 1992) was also used to model the summer
discharge scenario. Because the crab plant would not be operational, the volume of the
discharge would be much less (approximately 4.76 million gallons per day). The BOD
content of crab waste is small relative to fish processing and meal plant BOD. During
summer operation, the concentration of BODs in the effluent is estimated to be 817 mg/1.
Receiving water conditions are also different during summer. Most notably, temperatures
are greater, and DO concentrations are lower. Data used to determine the ambient
conditions were estimated from data collected during June and September 1983 (EPA
1984b). However, only near-bottom DO values are available for June 1983, and only surface
values are available for September 1983. Reasonable and conservative values for late
summer DO were selected for this simulation (9 mg/1 and 8 mg/1 for surface and near-
bottom waters, respectively). Table 13 outlines other parameters used during modeling of
the summer scenario. The IDODs of stickwater and fish waste are not known. As a
conservative approach, this analysis uses 10% and 20% of the effluent BOD5 as values for
IDOD. For the summer analysis, this would equate to IDODs of 81.7 and 163.4 mg/1. The
model simulation also assumes that the effluent contains no DO.
The model results are presented in Table K-3. Initial dilution of the plume will occur
at an overlap depth of 17.11 m. At that depth, the effluent will have been diluted
approximately 13:1. The BOD5 concentration at the plume centerline is estimated to be
63.1 mg/1 at the overlap depth. Based on the Mills et al. (1985) equation (IDOD = 81.7
and 163.4 mg/1), the receiving water DO within the plume at the overlap depth would be
approximately:
8.5 + ([0 - 81.7 - 8.5]/13) = 1.6 mg/1
or
8.5 + ([0 - 163.4 - 8.5]/13) = - 4.7 mg/1.
72
-------
Table 13. Assumptions Used to Model Summer Discharges from
Deep Sea Fisheries' Proposed Outfall
Parameter Assumption
Effluent
Flow 4.76 MGD
BOD5 concentration 817 mg/1
DO content 0 mg/1
BOD decay rate 0
Density 1.030 g/cm3
Outfall
Depth above bottom 20 ft (6.1 m)
Depth below surface 80 ft (24.4 m)
Vertical angle 90°
Diameter 12 in (0.305 m)
Receiving Waters
Stratification none
DO concentration (surface) 9 mg/1
DO concentration (outfall depth) 8 mg/1
Average DO concentration (outfall to surface) 8.5 mg/1
Temperature (surface) 8.2°C
Temperature (outfall depth) 8°C
Currents (surface) 0.1 m/s
Currents (outfall depth) 0.05 m/s
Density (surface) 1.022 g/cm3
Density (outfall depth) 1.023 g/cm3
73
-------
Based on this simulation, it appears that summer discharges from Deep Sea Fisheries'
proposed outfall would violate Alaska state water quality standards for DO (which state that
DO shall be greater than or equal to 6 mg/1). Significant localized impacts on water quality
would be expected based on this modeling effort.
Additional analyses were conducted to determine if impacts would result from
discharges associated with maximum seasonal production from the fish processing plant
during the summer. The analyses were similar to those discussed for the winter scenario.
To evaluate increased production, it was assumed that Deep Sea Fisheries would operate
at a level equivalent to the production level projected for August in Table 2 (559 t [507 mt]
of pollock and 0.9 t [0.8 mt] of other fish species). Assuming that there would need to be
a proportional increase in water usage, the BOD5 concentration of the effluent discharged
from the outfall would be the same as the maximum-rated capacity scenario, 817 mg/1.
Results of outfall modeling are presented in Table K-4. Results indicate that the dilution
at the overlap depth would be somewhat greater than the above analysis, 16:1, but would
still result in impacts on water quality in the summer.
To further evaluate the potential for localized water quality violations for the summer
discharge scenario, additional model simulations (WASP model; Baumgartner et al. 1992)
were performed. The WASP modeling techniques are discussed as part of the alternatives
analysis. However, for this analysis, Deep Sea Fisheries' estimated BOD5 load for the
maximum seasonal production scenario (primary outfall and bailwater; see Table 2) was
used because of the close proximity of the two sources. Since this set of simulations was
used to evaluate the effect of Deep Sea Fisheries' discharge only, no other pollutant sources
were included in the model. The results of this analysis (Figure 22) also indicate that there
is a potential for water quality violations under the summer discharge scenario. The
concentration of DO near the proposed outfall site is predicted to be 4 mg/1, assuming the
higher projected production levels.
Fuel Storage and Handling. Diesel fuel for operating equipment, the electrical
power generators, and fleet supply will be stored in six 247,000 gal tanks. These tanks will
be located in a lined containment basin. Deep Sea Fisheries will be required by 40 CFR
Part 112 to prepare a Spill Prevention Control and Countermeasure (SPCC) Plan for its
facility operations. The plan will define guidelines and procedures for spill prevention,
containment, and control. Full compliance with the SPCC Plan by Deep Sea Fisheries will
minimize the potential for significant impacts from fuel handling activities. Additional
measures, such as requiring vessels to be boomed with oil absorbent materials during
refueling and establishing guidelines and responsibility incentives for fuel handlers, would
further minimize the potential for fuel-related impacts to the environment.
Vessel Operation. Minor spills of waste products and hydrocarbons from vessels
associated with the operation of the facility may occur. The likelihood of such spills would
increase in relation to existing conditions as vessel traffic and use of the fueling facility
expand. There will be an at-dock no-discharge policy for visiting vessels. Signs and notices
will be posted on and around the facility to alert both visitors and plant staff to the
importance of spill prevention, reporting, and cleanup. Trash receptacles will be placed on
and around the moorage area for vessel solid wastes.
74
-------
Proposed Outfall Site
Alternative Outfall Site A-1
Alternative Outfall Site A-2
Alternative Outfall Site A-3
Arternalrve Outfall Srte A-3
N
Note:
Numbers represent
Deep Sea Fisheries
maximum projected
Summer discharge
only.
Figure 22. Predicted Dissolved Oxygen Concentration (mg/l) in Surface
Waters of Akutan Harbor Based on WASP Model Simulations
for the Proposed and Alternative Outfall Sites
75
-------
Intertidal Environments
Potential operational impacts to intertidal and shallow subtidal environments are
primarily restricted to contact with light fraction wastes and debris which drifts or is blown
ashore by the wind. These wastes may include, but are not limited to, fish oil, fish waste,
crab shells, petroleum hydrocarbons, detergents, and litter. The proposed action will include
discharges along the south shore of the harbor, and will result in higher concentrations of
fishing and other support vessels in the inner harbor. Under east wind conditions, floating
material would tend to disperse along the southern and western shore in the inner harbor.
The proposed activities could result in higher levels of petroleum hydrocarbons and fish oil
in sediments in the inner harbor. Sediments at the head of the harbor were found to have
elevated levels of petroleum hydrocarbons during the surveys conducted in April 1992.
Habitats in this area support low abundances of both epibenthic and infaunal
organisms. The cause of lower abundance is thought to be a combination of disturbance
caused by storms and sediment contamination. Increased activities which generate light
fraction wastes could result in increased sediment contamination in the inner harbor.
Determining the magnitude of this increase would be speculative. Accidental discharge of
petroleum hydrocarbons has the greatest potential for impacting intertidal and shallow
subtidal areas near the proposed site. Strict adherence to the company's SPCC Plan, and
the use of oil absorbent booms and employee guidelines and incentives during refueling
operations, would minimize potential impacts from fuel spills.
Marine Benthic Environments
Deep Sea Fisheries is proposing to discharge liquid and solid fraction wastes to a new
outfall location. New accumulations of seafood waste will occur as a result of the discharge
of solid crab waste and, to a lesser extent, from the discharge of screened fish processing
waste and of bailwater. Waste from crab processing will be ground (0.5 in [1.27 cm] or
smaller) and discharged from the primary outfall. Under the proposed project conditions,
the maximum annual crab production would be 9,000 t (8,165 mt). If Deep Sea Fisheries
were to process its maximum projected annual crab production, waste crab discharges would
amount to 2,700 t (2,450 mt) assuming a 30% waste yield. Deep Sea Fisheries estimated
its crab waste discharge to be 482 t (437 mt) and 655 t (594 mt) for 1991 and 1992,
respectively.
76
-------
Estimates of crab waste pile volume and area were made numerically assuming the
maximum annual production of crab (9,000 tons per year) indicated by Deep Sea Fisheries
in its NPDES permit. It was assumed that the density of the crab waste is 1.024 kilograms
per liter. The hypothetical crab pile is described by the following equations:
h = y Z exp (- a Zj)
Z = (x2 + y2)1/2
Zj= (x2 + 0y 2)1/2
where a, 0, and y are constants and h = pile depth.
These equations were chosen because they model a relatively flat-topped pile that decays
exponentially in depth at large distances from the source.
Estimates of pile volume for a 15-year period are illustrated in Figure 23. The two
curves on this figure represent different pile dispersal and decomposition rates. The curves
depict conditions under which either 25% or 10% of the annual waste discharge volume
remains each year.
The coverage of the pile is delineated by showing the calculated depth contours of
the waste pile in a 100 m2 (330-square-foot) area (Figures 24 and 25). The discharge is
assumed to occur 7.6 m (25 ft) in from one side of the boundary. The pile origin is located
asymmetrically because there is often a dominant direction to the flow of waste imparted
by the mean ambient water currents and the orientation of the discharge pipe. The thinnest
contour depicted in each figure is 15 cm (6 in). A layer of waste this thick would likely
cause anoxic conditions in the surficial sediments. The pile height is cropped in the
illustrations at 10 ft to allow better resolution in the depiction of the outer reaches of the
crab waste pile.
Based on the discharge volume associated with the maximum projected annual
production, the pile is calculated to cover approximately 1.92 acres (0.77 hectare) after the
first year, and 3.65 acres (1.48 hectares) after 15 years of discharge, assuming 25% of the
volume remains. If 10% of the discharge volume remains annually, the model indicates that
the pile will cover approximately 1.59 acres (0.64 hectare) after the first year of discharge,
and 2.98 acres (1.21 hectares) after the 15th year of discharge. Based on the findings of the
April 1992 survey by Jones & Stokes Associates and previous surveys (EPA 1984b), the
infaunal benthic community beneath the waste pile will be eliminated and replaced with
anaerobic bacteria, filamentous and sulfide-reducing bacteria Beggiatoa, and perhaps
oligochaete worms.
77
-------
VOLUME OF CRAB WASTE PILE
Annual Discharge 2,450 Metric Tons
Years of Operation
Legend
25% Accumulation
10% Accumulation
Figure 23. Estimated Crab Waste Pile Volume Assuming Annual Waste Discharges of 2,450 mt with
10% and 25% Annual Pile Retention
-------
-J
•o
1 YEAR
5 YEAR
toiu"t icu ni
III 2• ?
PILL ML I [.III
10 YEAR
15 YEAR
oiu*i icu rn ttftW) ft
9 MJO
B MJI
n
7 MJj
6 . 5U'i
5 50'j
¦==
ii. r> o r>
M
5 Mil,
TTl
,? SI)/
I SOU
¦v/t
0 5 10
Figure 24. Calculated Depth and Area of Crab Waste Discharges Assuming Annual Discharges of 2,450 mt
of Waste Annually and a 10% Annual Retention
-------
1 YEAR
5 YEAR
i>> ?&? jji
10 YEAR
15 YEAR
IE
lit l M
BES
g soo
H
8. GO l
B
7. 50 J
m
G 50'l
—
5 5US
—
'I S(ll.
M
3. Mil.
in
2 blW
ffl
1 . rjOU
—
0 '3 10
—
Figure 25. Calculated Depth and Area of Crab Waste Discharges Assuming Annual Discharges of 2,450 mt
of Waste Annually and a 25% Annual Retention
-------
A liquid waste from fish processing will be discharged with the crab waste. Screening
(to 5 mm or less) and processing of the fish solids in the fish meal plant will significantly
reduce the volume of settleable materials in the discharge. The larger and heavier particles
will settle on the crab waste pile. Some of the finer and/or lighter waste particles will be
carried down-current from the outfall. A small fraction of the material will reach the
surface (as was seen over the Trident Seafoods outfall). These finer particles will settle in
a zone down-current from the waste pile.
The characteristics of the bottom sediments and benthic community in the fine
particle settlement zone around the pile would be altered. Immediately adjacent to the
waste pile, both species richness and diversity would probably be significantly reduced in
relation to similar unimpacted communities. Mounds and burrows typical of animal activity
in undisturbed sediments would disappear. The sediments in areas of heavier deposition
may become colonized with mats of Beggiatoa. Anemones would probably be abundant
wherever rocks and debris provide a solid substrate for attachment above the sediments.
The effects of seafood wastes on infauna would become less visible further down-
current from the outfall. There may continue to be higher numbers of anemones (and
perhaps polychaete worms, bivalves, and other filter-feeding infauna) in response to the
increased suspended particle loading. These biota would tend to consume the suspended
waste particles, decreasing waste accumulation.
With the exception of an increase in settleable particles down-current from the crab
waste pile, the impacts of crab and fish processing wastes on benthic communities under the
proposed action should not differ markedly from existing conditions for Deep Sea Fisheries.
Impacts would include elimination of the benthos under the pile and modification of the
surrounding benthic community to one characteristic of organic enrichment. Because Deep
< Sea Fisheries is not proposing to increase its annual production, the crab waste pile created
by the proposed facility should increase incrementally in size at a rate similar to pile
expansion under the existing operation. Some impact outside the immediate area of the
crab waste deposits would occur. The most severe effect should be limited to a zone of fine
particle deposition surrounding the crab waste pile. The width of this zone would depend
on the distance suspended solids are entrained in the water column before sedimentation
occurs. Significant accumulations of seafood wastes in this area could result in anoxic
conditions in the sediments and severely affect benthic communities. Beyond the deposition
zone there should be a transition zone with features similar to those seen at Deep Sea
Fisheries' existing waste pile. Community changes similar to those described by Pearson and
Rosenberg (1978) would occur in this transition zone. Opportunistic species such as detrital-
feeding polychaetes would increase in response to organic enrichment. The transition zone
would cover a much larger area than the zone of direct impact. For example, effects of the
Deep Sea Fisheries waste discharge (increased numbers of anemones and tube worms) were
apparent in ROV surveys at least 200 ft from the outfall.
Recovery of the affected benthic community beneath the existing Deep Sea Fisheries
crab waste pile may take months or years. The rate of recovery would depend on bottom
current velocities at the existing site, microbial decomposition, and macrofaunal activity.
Currents at the existing pile site were weak and would not be expected to contribute to pile
81
-------
dispersion. Therefore, biological processes would be more important in biological recovery.
The benthic community in the transition zone surrounding the waste pile should return
rapidly to the conditions found in the less impacted portions of the harbor. The rate of
biological recovery will depend on the condition and degree of organic enrichment of the
bottom sediments and successional colonization by different species.
Marine Pelagic Environments
Plankton (such as the larvae of mussels and clams) could become entrained in the
effluent plume and be carried down-current. Because there are no toxic substances in the
discharge, and any localized decrease in DO is not expected to be detrimental, the discharge
would not be expected to have significant adverse impacts on plankton. However, nutrients
in the discharge may stimulate the growth of certain algal species during the spring and
summer months. The effect of Deep Sea Fisheries' discharge is not likely to adversely affect
phytoplankton dynamics. However, the discharge may contribute to cumulative nutrient
loading to the harbor (see the Cumulative Impacts Section).
Juvenile and adult salmon and plankton may migrate or drift along the shoreline and
encounter wastewater plumes. Salmon orient to nearshore areas in the vicinity of their
home streams. Once in the nearshore environment, olfaction plays an important role in the
discrimination between streams. Based on studies of adult sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus
nerka) in the vicinity of Bristol Bay (Straty 1969), it is expected that adult salmon bound for
the streams at the head of Akutan Bay would begin to travel more directly and actively
toward the mouths of the streams once they reach those portions of the harbor influenced
by the streams' flow. The path would likely keep them from entering the main core of Deep
Sea Fisheries' effluent plume. These fish are very sensitive to temperature and oxygen
gradients when in saltwater and should instinctively avoid the more concentrated portions
of the plume.
A similar condition would exist for juvenile salmon. While these fish are shoreline-
dependent, they may actively avoid the wastewater plumes. A wastewater discharge in the
intertidal zone (for example, cooling plant waters) may force the fish to swim farther
offshore and expose them to open water predators, such as larger salmonids. Juvenile
salmonids are expected to migrate through Akutan Harbor between April and June. This
period in spring is normally a period of minimal processing activities in the harbor. Because
of the relatively small discharge anticipated, migrating juvenile salmonids should not be
significantly impacted by Deep Sea Fisheries' discharge during this period.
Adverse water quality impacts are anticipated under the summer discharge scenarios.
These impacts would be associated with production levels occurring during peak processing
periods, which most likely occur in July or August. Juvenile salmonids may rear in Akutan
Harbor for some time during their first summer at sea. Because fish are highly mobile and
can avoid localized DO depressions, fish should not be significantly affected as a direct
result of Deep Sea Fisheries' proposed discharge. However, the proposed discharge may
contribute to cumulative water quality impacts on the harbor (see the Cumulative Impacts
Section).
82
-------
Freshwater Environments
Operation of the proposed facility would result in increased access to the three
streams at the head of Akutan Harbor. Stream 4 at the north end of the valley is known
to contain runs of pink salmon which provide an important fishery for the residents of the
City of Akutan. Access to this stream could result in increased subsistence and sport fishing
on pink salmon populations, disturbance of salmon spawning activities, and disturbance of
salmon redds during egg incubation. The potential for impacts on fisheries resources could
be minimized by limiting access to Stream 4.
Operation of the facility could result in increased gull (Larus spp.) activity in the
area. An increase in the gull population in the area could result in higher levels of
predation on pink salmon fry during the March to June period of fry emigration. However,
because of the existing processing activities in the harbor, gull populations and consequent
increases in predation should not increase enough to significantly affect fisheries resources.
Terrestrial Environments
The heath grasses on the hillside at the proposed construction site will be removed
during site preparation. No wetland vegetation will be affected. Because of the relatively
small and typical nature of the area affected by the construction and operation of the
proposed project, significant impacts on terrestrial wildlife species are not anticipated.
Threatened and Endangered Species
The only threatened or endangered species expected to be found in the vicinity of
the proposed project site is the Steller sea lion (Smith pers. comm.). This species presently
co-exists in the harbor with existing seafood processing operations. The proposed project
will not impact sea lion haulout or rookery areas; therefore, significant adverse impacts on
threatened and endangered species are not anticipated.
Land Use
Deep Sea Fisheries is proposing to lease the project site from the Akutan Village
Corporation. Since this project is not in conflict with land use policies of the corporation,
the City of Akutan, or the Aleutians East Borough, significant adverse impacts on land use
are not anticipated.
Socioeconomics
The processing operations and marketing of fish meal are expected to expand tax
revenues for the City of Akutan. The city receives a portion of a 1.5% fish tax provided by
83
-------
processors to the Aleutians East Borough. The processing and marketing of seafood
products and fish meal by Deep Sea Fisheries will increase tax revenues payable to the city.
There would be significant economic impacts on the city due to these increased revenues.
City staff would, therefore, be concerned about the long-term economic viability of the fish
processing business in the region (Juettner, Pelkey, and Tritremmel pers. comms.). The
potential for social interaction between the community of Akutan and the workers in the
harbor is expected to increase with the increased work force, but the socioeconomic impacts
of this increase are expected to be less than significant. There are few opportunities for
workers to become involved in local government or similar activities.
Public Services
Expansion of the work force at the Deep Sea Fisheries facility is not expected to have
an adverse impact on public services because of the nature of the work force and the low
opportunity for community interaction. Most of the work force will be composed of local
residents and young transient adults. Demands on schools or utilities in the community of
Akutan are not expected, and Deep Sea Fisheries will likely provide telephone service and
medical care as needed.
CUMULATIVE IMPACTS
Seafood processing activities in Akutan Harbor have increased dramatically in the
last decade. In the past 5 years alone crab landings have tripled, from approximately
20 million pounds annually to 60 million pounds (Figure 26). Unfortunately there are no
historical processing data for pollock in Akutan Harbor because of the confidentiality of fish
production quantities for individual facilities.
The identification of potential cumulative impacts was a major focus of the field
studies, analysis, and modeling. The following section describes cumulative impacts of fish
and shellfish processing in Akutan Harbor and discusses the potential for Deep Sea
Fisheries to add to those impacts.
Because Trident Seafoods and several transient floating processors operate in Akutan
Harbor, there is the potential for Deep Sea Fisheries' proposed facility to contribute to
cumulative impacts in the harbor. Where possible, an incremental assessment method is
used to judge the significance of Deep Sea Fisheries' contribution to potential cumulative
impacts.
Air Quality and Noise
Some incremental deterioration of air quality and increased noise levels will occur
in Akutan Harbor as processing and vessel activity expand. Air quality impacts would
primarily be sustained during periods of calm winds. The two primary sources of air
84
-------
Season
Figure 26. Annual Crab Landings and Approximate Annual Crab Waste
Discharge in Akutan Harbor, 1987 - 1992
85
-------
emissions would be Deep Sea Fisheries and Trident Seafoods. Improved methods of odor
control (seawater spray air scrubbers) during fish meal drying were recently adopted by
Trident Seafoods. This has eliminated a significant air quality problem in the harbor. Air
quality may also be affected in the vicinity of power generation and machinery emissions;
however, the impacts are not expected to be significant because quiescent periods are short
and infrequent.
Water Quality
Deep Sea Fisheries' proposed shore-based plant will contribute organic loading to
the harbor. Since existing seafood processors, including the shore-based Trident Seafoods
facility and several floating processors, currently discharge large quantities of fish and crab
processing wastes, it is necessary to characterize the cumulative impacts of existing and
proposed discharges. Given the oxygen-demanding nature of these discharges, there is
particular concern about the cumulative impacts of seafood processors on DO in Akutan
Harbor. For Akutan Harbor, the State of Alaska water quality standard regulations (Alaska
Department of Environmental Conservation 1989) require:
Surface dissolved oxygen (DO) concentrations in coastal waters shall not be
less than 6.0 mg/1 for a depth of one meter except when natural conditions
cause this value to be depressed. DO shall not be reduced below 4 mg/1 at
any point beneath the surface.
Environmental Conditions Favorable for Oxygen Depletion. The BOD of the
effluent will have the greatest impact on the water column during those intermittent times
when the circulation is weak and relatively little new water is available to disperse the
effluent. These are the times of lulls in windy weather, such as the 10-day period from day
112 to day 124 shown in Figure B-2. During these times of low winds (< 5 m/s), there may
be bursts of current activity unrelated to the local winds as seen in Figure B-2; however,
most of the time there will be only a weak circulation driven by the weak winds.
Four simulations of the modified circulation model were used to illustrate dispersion
during weak wind events. Two of the simulations used the model to simulate discharge from
Deep Sea Fisheries' proposed outfall. Two of the simulations follow discharges from the
Trident Seafoods facility. The graphical results are presented in Appendix L (Figures L-9,
L-10, L-17, and L-18). For each facility, simulations are for both east and west winds of
5 m/s. Each model run is for 32 hr of real time.
The simulations show localization of the effluent, with only a small fraction of the
discharges moving any appreciable distance (1,000 m) from the discharge location during
the 32 hr simulated.
Tidal velocities were evaluated from the current meter observations (Table B-2).
The two main constituents (K1 and 01) have amplitudes (the combined magnitude of the
u and v components) of 0.585 and 0.595 cm/s, respectively. The semidiurnal (half-period)
86
-------
displacements associated with the K1 tide (period 23.934 hr) and the 01 tide (period
25.819 hr) are 252 and 276 m. These displacements are smaller than the wind-driven
advection. The tide contribution to effluent dispersion would be smaller during neap tides
and somewhat larger during spring tides than the displacements indicated. However, the
tidal component is too small in either case to be the dominant force driving circulation in
the harbor.
Oxygen Deficits. The hydrodynamic model and tide calculations suggest that
effluents could be confined to relatively small areas (1 km square or less) of the inner
harbor for extended periods. The periods are sufficiently long that the BOD of the effluents
would locally affect the ambient DO concentration.
The conceptual model for estimating cumulative impacts of seafood processing on
the DO in Akutan Harbor is derived from the equations of mass balance for dissolved
constituents as described in the manual for WASP4 (Ambrose et al. 1991). More
specifically, it assumes that the oxygen-demanding properties of the seafood waste can be
described in terms of BOD and the important physical processes.
Appendix M contains details of the WASP model evaluations conducted by EPA.
Some of the important assumptions and the resulting conclusions are summarized here.
The discussion of the hydrodynamics during lull conditions suggests that the
dispersion of the effluent can be modeled by a purely diffusive system, neglecting ambient
advection of the plume. There is some uncertainty associated with a few of the parameters
used in the model due to limited data availability. These include loading rates,
deoxygenation rate, reaeration rate, effluent density, and coefficient of eddy diffusivity. The
rationale for selecting particular parameter values is discussed in Appendix M.
One of the more critical parameters is the diffusivity coefficient. Because the mean
currents predicted by the circulation model were weak during calm wind conditions, the
WASP model was employed without using mean currents in the calculations. Given the
random small and directionally variable effects of winds expected during calm conditions,
it would be impossible to predict precise water displacement. Instead, a range of diffusivity
coefficients was used in the model (0.03 square meter per second [m2/s] to 89 m2/s). This
range of coefficients represents all conceivable natural occurrences, and it was estimated
from observed daily displacements derived from the current meter deployments in 1992.
An eddy diffusivity coefficient value of 0.5 m2/s was used for most of the WASP
model simulations to evaluate the proposed project (Appendix M). Using the calculations
defined in Appendix M, 75% of the observations from the upper current meter at the
proposed Deep Sea Fisheries outfall site would support a lower estimate of the dispersion
coefficient (0.03 m2/s). Only 25% of the observations from the current meter mooring near
the Trident Seafoods facility would support the use of the lower coefficient estimate. This
indicates that coefficient value of 0.5 m2/s used in the analysis is a true intermediate value
and not a worst-case estimate.
87
-------
The analysis presented in Appendix M is conservative in several respects. The
analysis assumes that:
• all wastes are discharged to the surface waters of AJcutan Harbor;
• the amount of discharged materials is equivalent to maximum seasonal
production discharge volumes from all processors in the harbor (Tables M-2,
M-3, and M-4 in Appendix M); and
• materials are discharged during quiescent wind periods.
Table 14 illustrates the potential for water quality violations from existing and
proposed discharges. Since low and intermediate values of dispersion are possible during
any given season of processing, this table shows that the harbor is at a high risk for
cumulative impacts on water quality.
Model Results. The WASP model results (Figures M-10, M-ll, and M-12) predict
that combined discharge to the harbor under the proposed action will result in water quality
violations for DO during peak summer processing periods. Surface DO concentrations near
the Deep Sea Fisheries and Trident Seafoods outfalls would be lowered to 3 mg/1 based on
model simulations. The plumes of the two shore-based facilities do not appear to
commingle under the proposed action. The effect of floating processors would be minor
when compared to the effects of discharges from the shore-based facilities.
There may also be indirect effects on summer DO levels due to stimulation of
phytoplankton and benthic algae by increased inorganic nutrients originating from the
discharge of fish and crab wastes. These effects are discussed in greater detail under
Marine Pelagic Environments below.
The analysis conducted for winter maximum seasonal production indicated that no
significant cumulative impacts on water quality are expected in winter from the combination
of the proposed action and existing discharges (Figures M-19, M-20, and M-21 in
Appendix M).
Fuel Storage and Handling. Both Trident Seafoods and Deep Sea Fisheries are
required by 40 CFR Part 112 to prepare SPCC Plans for their facility operations. These
plans specify fuel handling procedures, spill prevention, and systematic responses to spill
events. Potential cumulative impacts due to increased fuel storage and handling in Akutan
Harbor could be minimized by implementing several additional measures, including placing
booms around vessels during fueling and developing guidelines and responsibility incentives
for fuel handlers.
Vessel Operation. Most of the spillage of waste products and hydrocarbons into
Akutan Harbor probably originates from fishing vessels and floating processors. Motor
vessels undoubtedly pump oily bilge water and wastes into the harbor. Oil sheens and slicks
were encountered several times during the field surveys.
88
-------
Table 14. Violations of Water Quality Standards
in Any of 30 Scenarios
Dispersion
Season Low Intermediate High
Summer yes yes no
Winter yes no* no
* No violations projected except for Alternative
Outfall Site A-3..
89
-------
Deep Sea Fisheries will increase its processing activities and operate more actively
in both seasons. Therefore, there could be substantially more vessel activity and more
potential for spills in the inner harbor.
Procedures to minimize these discharges to the harbor from the proposed action
should be applied to all users of the harbor. All processors should strictly comply with
SPCC Plans and encourage their fishing fleets to avoid oily discharges to the harbor. This
would minimize the incremental increases in spill events in Akutan Harbor and minimize
the accumulations of petroleum hydrocarbons in the intertidal areas of the inner harbor.
Additional measures to minimize potential cumulative impacts were discussed as part of the
Fuel Storage and Handling Section.
Intertidal Environments
Epibenthic and infaunal organisms in the intertidal and shallow subtidal environments
are exposed to light fraction wastes which come ashore. Increased activity in the inner
harbor under the proposed action will likely increase the exposure of these organisms to
these light fraction wastes, including petroleum hydrocarbons. The extent of cumulative
impacts associated with present and proposed processing activities is not quantitatively
known.
As discussed above, procedures to minimize the impact of accidental spills should be
applied to all users of the harbor.
Marine Benthic Environments
Cumulative impacts on the marine benthos in Akutan Harbor from the proposed
action can include local effects, such as those described for Deep Sea Fisheries and Trident
Seafoods, and cumulative impacts on a harborwide scale. The picture is complicated by the
presence of both shore-based processors, which have a mix of waste streams and treatment
processes, and floating processors, which have limited waste treatment (grinding solid wastes
to 0.5 in [1.27 cm]).
Effluent from shore-based processors can be considered as well-defined point sources.
Most floating processors are diffuse point sources. Floating processors anchor at various
locations in the harbor and are constantly swinging on their anchors in response to changing
winds and tides. A few floating processors (the M/V Clipperton, M/V Deep Sea, and
M/V Northland) have semi-permanent, multianchor moorages and move very little in
relation to the bottom. Treatment of both crab and fish waste by all floating processors is
limited, at best, to grinding.
The point-source discharges of the shore-based and semi-permanent, ship-based
processors result in the accumulation of seafood waste on the bottom. All or most of the
benthos beneath the waste piles is eliminated. There is a zone of deposition surrounding
the main waste piles that is enriched by the deposition of finer organic particles. The
90
-------
composition of benthic communities surrounding the waste piles appears to be altered by
this organic enrichment, from mixed-species communities to communities dominated by a
reduced assemblage of species. For example, anemones and the small deposit-feeding
polychaete worm Capitella capitata, which is indicative of organic enrichment, are typically
abundant in these zones.
Impacts on the benthic community resulting from the operation of floating processors
are not as easy to distinguish because of the diffuse nature of their waste streams.
Nevertheless, some effects were clearly noted in the ROV transects (Appendix J) and
bottom samples (Appendix H). The semi-permanent, ship-based processor M/V Clipperton
was moored in the same location during the 1991/1992 crab season. A relatively thin layer
of crab waste was deposited from this vessel. This relatively short duration of discharge was
sufficient to eliminate most tube worms in the affected area (ROV video transect 7).
Scattered crab waste outside the zone of heavy deposition appeared to have little or no
impact on existing animal life. Crab waste observed in the central portions of Akutan
Harbor (ROV video transect 8) was colonized with the filamentous bacteria Beggiatoa, which
is also indicative of excessive organic deposition.
The benthic community in Akutan Harbor in 1992 was significantly different than
communities observed in 1983. In 1983, the opportunistic polychaete worm C. capitata was
rare or absent from samples. In 1992, C. capitata occurred commonly in samples collected
in the northern and western portions of the inner harbor, west of Akutan village.
Gtyphanostomum pallescens, a small tube-dwelling polychaete not reported in 1983, was
common in 1992 in all areas of Akutan Harbor which were not directly impacted by crab
or fish waste. The total abundance of polychaetes, such as Lumbrineris sp., increased
markedly between 1983 and 1992.
It appears obvious from the sediment and benthic community data collected in 1983
and 1992 that seafood processing has had a cumulative impact on the benthic environment.
The most likely cause of this impact is enrichment of the sediment through dispersed
settlement of fine organic particles from both shore-based and floating processors. At
present, the benthic communities not affected directly by waste piles appear relatively
healthy and robust. However, there is evidence (in the increased presence of opportunistic
species such as C. capitata) that communities in the harbor are being altered and in some
areas degraded by continued enrichment.
Deep Sea Fisheries is not proposing to increase its annual discharge of crab waste
to the harbor. However, Deep Sea Fisheries is proposing to discharge wastes to a new
location. Discharged crab wastes contribute the largest fraction of solids to the waste pile.
The direct impacts on benthic habitats (alteration of substrate and anoxic sediments)
associated with the remnant waste pile at the present discharge site will decrease over the
next 10 to 15 years. Simultaneously, the area of benthic habitat directly impacted by the
proposed outfall will increase at a rate similar to accretion of the former waste pile. There
will be a net increase in benthic habitat directly impacted by the proposed project. This net
increase will contribute a cumulative increase in the acreage of benthic habitat affected by
91
-------
waste accumulation in the harbor. However, the net increase of waste pile acreage
occurring as a result of the proposed project is not expected to cause a significant
cumulative impact on the benthos.
Another aspect of waste discharge to the harbor is organic enrichment of sediments
throughout the harbor, and a consequent impact on benthic community structure and
abundance. This question was discussed for the existing condition with reference to work
by Pearson and Rosenberg (1978) and Pearson et al. (1986). Those authors found that
increases in organic input to embayments enriched the organic content of sediments and
resulted in relatively predictable changes in the species composition, abundance, and
biomass of benthic taxa. These changes in the benthic fauna of Akutan Harbor appear to
have already occurred between the 1983 and 1992 sample periods. Some of the changes are
consistent with the "transitional" conditions described by Pearson and Rosenberg (1978).
The changes include an increase in species richness or diversity and abundance of certain
opportunistic species. Benthic populations will be more likely to shift rapidly in species
composition or abundance than communities with a lower level of organic enrichment. With
the exception of those areas directly impacted by deposits of crab wastes, benthic
communities in the harbor will not be eliminated. However, the "transitional" condition is
expected, to at least continue in the harbor with the operation of the two shore-based
processors and floating processors.
Marine Pelagic Environments
Based on the analysis in Appendix M, the combined discharges from floating and
shore-based processors can potentially impact water quality in the harbor during the summer
processing season. This may affect pelagic species which use the inner harbor nearshore
environments. Short-term and localized effects (i.e., lowered DO and increased turbidity)
do occur, especially in and adjacent to effluent plumes. Juvenile and adult salmon, as well
as herring and other fish species, probably would not be susceptible to the plume effects
because of their mobility. As discussed earlier, juvenile salmonids would migrate through
Akutan Harbor between April and June when processing activities are limited. Larval fish
and crustaceans, and other smaller organisms, could be entrained in the plumes. Losses or
displacement of the zooplankton community would be of a relatively small scale and
probably not significant.
Phytoplankton dynamics are controlled by a number of factors including light,
nutrients, temperature, hydrodynamics, and zooplankton grazing. During the winter months,
light availability limits phytoplankton production. Therefore, nutrient loading from seafood
processor discharges is not expected to impact phytoplankton in winter. However, nutrient
deposition on the harbor bottom may recycle to the water column through the year as the
wind-driven circulation causes upwelling at the head of the harbor.
During the early spring and summer, nutrient availability tends to be the primary
limiting factor for phytoplankton production. When light is not limiting, nutrient loading
from seafood processing discharges will very likely affect phytoplankton production, biomass,
and species composition. This could have several different effects.
92
-------
Changes in phytoplankton species composition and biomass will have a direct effect
on herbivorous zooplankton dynamics, and an indirect effect on higher trophic levels such
as predatory zooplankton and fish. Often phytoplankton blooms are composed primarily of
dinoflagellates. Dinoflagellate blooms have been associated with red tide events, which
cause toxic conditions and often affect a wide variety of marine organisms. In addition,
when blooms die, decomposition of the algal cells consumes oxygen in the water.
Nitrogen is typically the limiting nutrient in cold water marine environments.
Nitrogen is not typically measured as a characteristic of seafood processing waste, so an
estimate of nitrogen loading to the harbor is not available at this time. Increases in
plankton production due to nutrient loading are possible during spring and summer.
However, no documented adverse effects of algal blooms associated with human-caused
activities have been reported for Alaskan waters.
Terrestrial Environments
Impacts on the terrestrial environment from the proposed project are considered less
than significant. Therefore, cumulative impacts on the terrestrial environment with the
addition of the Deep Sea Fisheries processing facility are not anticipated.
Threatened and Endangered Species
Steller sea lions are the only threatened or endangered species known to occur in the
vicinity of the proposed project site. The sea lions presently co-exist with processing
activities in the harbor, and there will be no impacts to sea lion haulout areas or rookeries.
Therefore, no cumulative impacts on threatened or endangered species are likely within
Akutan Harbor.
Land Use
No cumulative changes in land use are expected as a consequence of the proposed
project. The proposed project is consistent with existing land uses.
Socioeconomics
Because of an increase in taxable revenue, the proposed action will result in a net
positive cumulative impact on the socioeconomics of Akutan Harbor.
Public Services
No cumulative changes in public services are expected other than those public
services provided directly by Deep Sea Fisheries.
93
-------
ALTERNATIVES AND THEIR ENVIRONMENTAL EFFECTS
A variety of alternatives to the proposed action have been considered. Operational
alternatives include:
• The No Action Alternative: NPDES permit not issued.
Several discharge alternatives were considered for the determination of impacts, as
well as economic implications for Deep Sea Fisheries. These include:
• alternative bailwater disposal;
• recycling of stickwater;
• placement of the outfall at an alternative site within the harbor;
• reduction of production levels during critical periods; and
• removal and disposal of crab waste solids by means of
- barging,
landfilling,
incineration,
chitin and chitosan production, or
crab meal production.
Operational Alternatives
No Action Alternative: NPDES Permit Not Issued
If EPA determines that an individual NPDES permit should not be issued, the
proposed shore-based Deep Sea Fisheries facility for Akutan Harbor would have to be
either abandoned or relocated. The company would be permitted to continue its existing
operation.
Environmental Consequences. There would be no additional impacts on the waters
or shoreline of Akutan Harbor from the proposed project if EPA decides not to issue an
NPDES permit to Deep Sea Fisheries. Deep Sea Fisheries, however, would likely continue
to operate under the general NPDES permit, which would allow the discharge of 310,000 lbs
(140,614 kg) of seafood waste per month.
Economic Consequences. Abandonment or relocation of the proposed project would
pose severe economic impacts on Deep Sea Fisheries. The capital investment made by
Deep Sea Fisheries would be lost or, at best, greatly diminished. The City of Akutan and
the Aleutians East Borough would lose a significant income base from taxes on 70 to
90 million dollars expected to be earned annually by the proposed facility (Reid Middleton
1991).
94
-------
Discharge Alternatives
Alternative Discharge of Bailwater
Deep Sea Fisheries proposes to discharge bailwater through a surface discharge at
the loading dock. It is estimated that up to 167,400 gpd (633,600 1) of bailwater will be
discharged off-dock at maximum production levels. This discharge can create substantial
deposition piles, primarily fish scales, and add to BOD5 loading in the vicinity of the
discharge.
Most trawlers expected to off-load raw fish at the Deep Sea Fisheries dock will use
chilled refrigeration systems. The fish pump removes all of the fish and associated water
and waste from the system while off-loading the catch. The fish/water mixture is run over
a dewatering conveyor; the water is captured in another plumbing system, and the fish are
transported to the processing facilities. This provides the opportunity for three alternatives
to the proposed discharge method:
o recycling of bailwater to the trawler;
o discharge of bailwater through the fish processing plant's drainage system, where
it can be screened, ground, and discharged through the outfall; or
• removal of solids from the bailwater; solids can then be reduced in the meal
plant, and the liquid fraction can be discharged through the finfish processing
building outfall.
The first two alternatives could be easily implemented; however, a bailwater
collection and conveyance system would have to be built. A two-way valve could be
installed in the plumbing system close to the point of bailwater collection (after the catch
is dewatered). The valve would allow operators to shunt bailwater directly back to the
trawler, or to the finfish processing plant drainage system.
In some cases, Deep Sea Fisheries expects to off-load vessels which use ice to chill
fish, rather than a chilling system. In this case, bailwater cannot be recycled to the trawler.
However, by resetting the valve, the bailwater could be easily shunted to the finfish
processing plant drainage system and discharged through the outfall.
The third alternative, removal and transport of solids to the meal plant, would be
more difficult to implement. Solids in the finfish processing plant drainage system would
be screened through a 0.2 in (5 mm) screen, which would not retain smaller particles such
as fish scales. The technology to remove solids from bailwater has not been fully developed;
however, there are several potential options such as:
• hydro'screens,
« decanters,
• centrifuges,
95
-------
• rotating drum screens, or
• sand filtration.
Environmental Consequences. Recycling bailwater back to the trawler could
eliminate most of the impacts of bailwater discharge into Akutan Harbor. The bailwater
would eventually be dumped outside the harbor, but at a much lower rate (greater dilution)
and over a wider area, resulting in less accumulation of solids on benthic habitats. A
stipulation could also be implemented restricting trawlers from exchanging water from
chilled seawater systems at the dock or within Akutan Harbor, further decreasing potential
water quality impacts. By restricting all vessels from dumping recycled bailwater in the
harbor, the cumulative BOD loading in the harbor could be reduced by approximately
21,000 lbs (9,505 kg) per day during the peak summer production periods (based on
projected bailwater produced by Deep Sea Fisheries and Trident Seafoods in August).
Shunting bailwater through the finfish processing plant drainage would eliminate the
impacts of bailwater in the vicinity of the dock; however, bailwater solids (less than 1-inch
diameter) would be deposited from the outfall. The relative contribution of solids and
BOD5 loading from bailwater to the outfall could contribute as much as 21,000 lbs
(9,505 kg) of additional BODs per day during peak summer processing periods to that being
contributed by other proposed processes. Additional BOD5 loading to the proposed or
alternative outfall sites could result in further degradation of water quality during peak
summer processing periods.
Removal and transport of solids to the meal plant would eliminate impacts of solid
deposition; however, the liquid fraction, and its associated BOD5, would still need to be
discharged. Depending on the solids removal technique used, the potential BOD5 loading
from the bailwater could be considerably reduced.
Economic Consequences. Minimal capital funding would be required to implement
the first two alternatives. Some small additional operational cost would be incurred in
pumping bailwater; however, this would be extremely small compared to the total costs of
the proposed operation. Returning the bailwater to the trawler would be a benefit to the
trawler. If bailwater was dumped, the trawler would have to take on a fresh supply of water
and expend time and energy chilling the system to the desired temperature. By recycling
the bailwater back to the trawler, cooler system temperatures can be maintained, saving the
trawler operator time and money.
The third option is also considered economically feasible, with some small increase
in capital and operational costs. However, specific details and economic assessments would
have to be evaluated.
Stickwater Recycling
Recycling the stickwater produced during the production of fish meal involves
evaporating the stickwater. Some of the solids remaining after evaporation can be added
back to the fish meal. Approximately 5.7% (by weight) of stickwater is solids (Plesha pers.
96
-------
comm.). With 100% recycling of stickwater, the amount of solid wastes requiring disposal
would decrease by approximately 13.2 t (12 mt) per day, with a subsequent decrease in
BOD5 loading of 11 t (10 mt) per day. However, addition of these solids to the meal results
in a product with higher salt content. The upper limit of salt content in fish meal is 7%.
According to Plesha's assessment in 1989, fish meal with a salt content above 3% is of much
lower economic value than fish meal with a salt content of less than 2%, and there is
currently no market for meal with a salt content of 3% or higher. However, the fish meal
market was not evaluated as part of this assessment, and production of meal with higher salt
content may now be more economically viable.
A second alternative is to completely evaporate the stickwater separately to recover
the solids. The excess solids might be used in another market, or disposed outside of
Akutan Harbor, rather than adding them to the meal plant. Landfilling residual solids is
not considered a viable option because of limited land disposal sites and health concerns.
If barging of crab waste is required (see below), residual stickwater solids could be barged
and dumped at a deep water site as well.
Environmental Consequences. The evaporation of stickwater and the drying of the
resulting solubles into the meal requires that additional heat be generated for the process.
As an example, Trident Seafoods quantified the air and water discharges that would result
from the evaporation processes for its proposed facility in Akutan Harbor using diesel
generators. For every ton of water-soluble protein (solids in stickwater) not discharged into
the harbor, an additional 1.1 t (1 mt) of carbon dioxide and 19 lbs (8.7 kg) of sulfur dioxide
would be produced and discharged into the atmosphere (Bundrant pers. comm.).
Recycling stickwater, disposing of residual solids through an alternative market, or
barging and dumping the solids would significantly reduce the amount of BOD5 loading to
Akutan Harbor. The BOD5 of the stickwater comprises approximately 50 to 55% of the
total loading under the Deep Sea Fisheries proposed operations.
Economic Consequences. It is beyond the scope of this EA to evaluate the current
economics of fish meal recycling alternatives. As an example of the potential economic
consequences to Deep Sea Fisheries from recycling stickwater, the following describes an
analysis conducted by Trident Seafoods during its permitting process in 1989 (Bundrant pers.
comm.). It should be noted that the market for fish meal and feasible processing technology
may have changed since the analyses by Bundrant in 1989. The following assumptions were
used in the Bundrant analysis:
® A salt content of 1.52%, determined from chemical analysis of stickwater
produced at the Unisea Dutch Harbor plant, was used for stickwater generated
by the Trident Seafoods fish meal plant.
® The market price for cake meal (i.e., meal with less than 50% of the water-
soluble proteins added back into the product) is $600 per metric ton.
97
-------
• The market price for whole meal (i.e., meal with more than 50% of the water-
soluble proteins added back into the product) with 3% or less salt is also $600
per metric ton.
• Although there is probably not a market for meal with over 7% salt, meal with
7.4% was assumed to have a market value of $200 per metric ton.
o The maximum production rate at the Trident Seafoods proposed facility would
be 440 t (400 mt) of raw pollock per day.
The following four production scenarios were used in the economic analysis
performed by Trident Seafoods:
• Discharge all stickwater produced by the plant.
• Recycle all stickwater produced by the plant.
• Recycle 17% of the stickwater to yield fish meal with 3% salt.
• Reduce the salt content of the stickwater to a level permitting evaporation of the
entire product into the meal and remain under 3% salt content.
According to the economic analysis, the recycling of all stickwater produced by the
Trident Seafoods fish meal plant would result in a net loss of income of approximately
$2,200 per day (in 1989 dollars). The results also indicate that discharging all stickwater
would save Trident Seafoods $15,905 per day (in 1989 dollars). However, according to the
analysis, it would be more profitable to recycle 17% of the stickwater, which would produce
a savings of $17,132 per day (1989 dollars).
From this it can be inferred that it would be in Deep Sea Fisheries' economic interest
to recycle some percentage of the stickwater. Optimally, the seafood industry needs to
develop the technology to reduce the salt content of the stickwater and evaporate as much
water-soluble, protein back into the meal as possible without exceeding 3% salt content; this
could result in a daily income of $21,377 (in 1989 dollars).
Outfall Location Alternatives
Three outfall locations were considered as alternatives to the proposed outfall
location. Two methods were used to evaluate the outfall location alternatives for the Deep
Sea Fisheries facility:
• A modified version of the circulation model was used to illustrate dispersion at
different locations in the harbor under differing environmental conditions.
• WASP model simulations were used to determine the potential for alternative
discharge scenarios to violate Alaska state water quality standards.
98
-------
The circulation model of the harbor was modified to determine if other reasonable,
alternative outfall locations were feasible. The modified model was used to assess the
relative dispersion of liquid fraction wastes from continuous discharge sources located at the
proposed outfall site, and three alternative sites in the harbor. Diffusion is based on depth-
averaged velocities predicted by the circulation model and parameterized by a random walk
process. This process is described below.
In the modified model, one unit of a tracer (density equal to seawater) is discharged
every 0.45 second (one time step in the numerical model). This unit tracer is added to the
center of the 128 m by 128 m grid in which the outfall terminates (source grid). With each
addition of a unit of tracer, the grid accumulates a displacement vector of a magnitude and
direction dictated by the simulated currents. This displacement vector increases
incrementally with each new unit addition of tracer. The amount of this increase is
equivalent to the depth-averaged current velocity occurring in the grid at the time of the
addition, times the incremental time step (0.45 second).
When the magnitude of the vector reaches 70 m (the average distance from the
center of the grid to the grid boundary), some of the tracer in the grid is displaced to
adjoining grids (Figure 27). The average distance is defined as £/2(/l/cos[t]) between the
limits t = 0 and t = tt/4, where I is the length of the grid boundary. The dispersion model
depicts the effluent as contained in a circle whose radius is that of its center of mass
displacement from the center of the grid. On average, the center of mass leaves the grid
when the displacement is 70 m. The size of the circle reflects both that the currents waver
in direction with time, and that there is lateral diffusion. When the center of mass reaches
the average grid boundary, about 50% of the circle will be out of the host grid. It will be
40% in the primary receiving grid, and 10% in the grid adjacent to the primary receiving
grid. The direction of the displacement is determined by the direction of the vector. After
this displacement, the grid which initially received the discharge (source grid) contains 50%
of its original amount of tracer, and its displacement vector is set equal to zero. In this way
the tracer moves through grids at velocities given by the time development of the numerical
model and has a component of lateral dispersion.
The resulting graphics are intended to assess the relative diffusion characteristics of
liquid fraction wastes at each chosen discharge location in the harbor, rather than being a
quantitative assessment of dispersion. Because current velocities are relatively small, larger
fraction solid wastes are expected to settle in the near vicinity of each outfall site.
The source grids in the following analyses are positioned at the location of the
proposed outfall, an alternative site midchannel in the inner harbor (Alternative Outfall
Site A-l), an alternative site just east of the abandoned whaling station (Alternative Outfall
Site A-2), and a site just east of the headlands which lie directly south of the Trident
Seafoods facility (Alternative Outfall Site A-3) (Figure 28). The results of the model
simulations are presented in Appendix L.
99
-------
Figure 27. Illustration of Tracer Displacement when a Vector Reaches
a Threshold Magnitude of 70 Meters
100
-------
Figure 28. Approximate Location of the Proposed (P) and Three Alternative (A-1 to A-3) Locations for
the Deep Sea Fisheries Outfall
-------
The concentration of the tracer at each location, and within adjacent grids as the
tracer disperses, is depicted by an asterisk that increases linearly in size with increased
amounts of tracer within the grid. An asterisk 0.5 inch in diameter would contain 40,000
units of tracer.
Several possible environmental scenarios are presented in Appendix L, including:
• simulated dispersion from the proposed outfall site and the three alternative
outfall sites during a short-term (4 hr) storm event with winds from the west at
20 m/s (Figures L-l, L-3, L-5, and L-7);
® simulated dispersion from the proposed outfall site and the three alternative
outfall sites during a short-term (4 hr) storm event with winds from the east at
20 m/s (Figures L-2, L-4, L-6, and 1^8);
• simulated dispersion from the proposed outfall site and the three alternative
outfall sites during longer (32 hr) quiescent periods with winds from the west at
5 m/s (Figures L-9, L-ll, L-13, and L-15); and
• simulated dispersion from the proposed outfall site and the three alternative
outfall sites during longer (32 hr) quiescent periods with winds from the east at
5 m/s (Figures L-10, L-12, L-14, and L-16).
In addition to the modified circulation model, a WASP model was used to evaluate
each alternative. EPA conducted a cumulative effects evaluation for the proposed and
alternative outfall sites (Appendix M). WASP model simulations were run for both summer
and winter conditions for each site alternative. The model included discharges from Deep
Sea Fisheries (projected), Trident Seafoods (1992 DMRs), and floating processors
(estimated from tax data) in the harbor. For each site and season, the contribution of
floating processors was analyzed using three different assumptions: floating processors
located randomly throughout the harbor; floating processors located east of longitude
1650 46' only; or no floating processors located in the harbor. The analysis presented in
Appendix M is conservative in several respects. The analysis assumes that:
• All wastes are discharged to the surface waters of Akutan Harbor.
• The amount of discharged materials is equivalent to the maximum seasonal
production discharge volumes from all processors in the harbor (Tables M-2,
M-3, and M-4 in Appendix M).
• All wastes except bailwater and stormwater are discharged through Deep Sea
Fisheries' primaiy outfall.
• Bailwater discharges from Deep Sea Fisheries enter the harbor in the model cell
located nearest to the facilities dock.
• Materials are discharged during quiescent wind periods.
102
-------
Uncertainties associated with the model simulations were discussed earlier (see the
Cumulative Impacts Section).
The following sections discuss the results of the modeling analysis for the proposed
outfall location and the three outfall location alternatives. A summary of the WASP model
simulation results is presented in Table 15.
Proposed Outfall Site. Figures L-l and L-2 illustrate the effect of 20 m/s west
and east wind events, respectively, on dispersion from the Proposed Outfall Site. As
illustrated in the figures, very little dispersion was realized under west wind conditions and
all of the tracer accumulated in the inner harbor. Under east wind conditions, the net
dispersion was to the east; however, most of tracer still accumulated in the inner harbor.
A similar dispersion pattern was obtained when the 32 hr, 5 m/s model was used to
evaluate the Proposed Outfall Site (Figures L-9 and L-10). Under west wind conditions, the
tracer accumulated at the head of the harbor. Under east wind conditions, the tracer
generally dispersed to the east; however, most of the tracer was still within the inner harbor
after 32 hr.
The WASP model analysis indicated there would be no cumulative impact on water
quality in the harbor during the winter discharge scenarios for the Proposed Outfall Site
(Figures M-25, M-26, and M-27 in Appendix M). However, there were localized impacts
on water quality from Deep Sea Fisheries' discharge from the Proposed Outfall Site under
the summer scenario (Figures M-10, M-ll, and M-12 in Appendix M; see also Figure 22 in
main text). The WASP model indicated that the bailwater and primary discharges would
commingle under the proposed action, resulting in water quality violations near the facility.
The model also indicated that a minor commingling of the Deep Sea Fisheries and Trident
Seafoods discharges would occur. The effect of the commingling of the two discharges
would be relatively minor.
Alternative Outfall Site A-l. Figures L-3 and L-4 illustrate the effects of
20 m/s west and east wind events, respectively, on dispersion from Alternative Outfall
Site A-l, which is located midchannel in the inner harbor at about the 20-fathom contour.
Under west wind conditions, the net dispersion was to the east/northeast; however, very
little of the tracer left the inner harbor after 4 hr. Under east wind conditions, dispersion
was slightly greater than west wind conditions, with net transport to the east/southeast.
A similar dispersion pattern was obtained when the 32 hr, 5 m/s model was used to
evaluate Alternative Outfall Site A-l (Figures L-l 1 and L-12). Under west wind conditions,
the tracer accumulated immediately east of the discharge site within the inner harbor.
Under east wind conditions, the tracer also tended to concentrate greatly at the mouth of
the inner harbor after 32 hr. Under east wind conditions, the model indicated that
discharges from Deep Sea Fisheries and Trident Seafoods could commingle near the mouth
of the inner harbor (see Figure L-17).
103
-------
Table 15. Potential for Water Quality Violations at the
Proposed and Alternative Sites for Deep Sea Fisheries
Dispersion
Season Low Intermediate High
Proposed Outfall
Summer yes yes no
Winter yes no no
Alternative A-l
Summer * yes
Winter * no
Alternative A-2
Summer * no
Winter * no
Alternative A-3
Summer * yes
Winter * yes
* Model run not available.
104
-------
The WASP model analysis indicated that there would be no cumulative impact on
water quality in the harbor during the winter discharge scenarios for Alternative Outfall
Site A-l (Figures M-28, M-29, and M-30 in Appendix M). However, there were localized
impacts on water quality from Deep Sea Fisheries' discharge from Alternative Outfall Site
A-l under the summer scenario (Figures M-13, M-14, and M-15 in Appendix M). The
WASP model indicated that the bailwater and primary discharges would commingle if
Alternative Outfall Site A-l were selected, resulting in water quality violations near the
facility. However, the effect of the commingling would result in less pronounced water
quality deterioration than that which would be expected under the proposed action. The
model also indicated that a minor commingling of the Deep Sea Fisheries and Trident
Seafoods discharges would occur. The effect of the commingling of these two discharges
would be no greater than that expected under the proposed action.
Alternative Outfall Site A-2. Figures L-5 and L-6 illustrate the effects of west
and east wind events, respectively, on dispersion from Alternative Outfall Site A-2, which
is located just east of the whaling station at about the 15-fathom contour. Under west wind
conditions, tracer dispersed from this alternative site along the southern shore; however, it
still tended to concentrate at the outfall site. Under east wind conditions, the tracer
dispersed rather rapidly to the north/northeast toward the Trident Seafoods facility.
A similar dispersion pattern was obtained when the 32 hr, 5 m/s model was used to
evaluate Alternative Outfall Site A-2 (Figures L-13 and L-14). Under west wind conditions,
the tracer demonstrated some dispersion eastward along the south shore. Under east wind
conditions, the tracer tended to disperse along the north shore in the vicinity of the Trident
Seafoods facility. Under east wind conditions, the model also indicated that discharges from
Deep Sea Fisheries and Trident Seafoods could commingle (see Figure L-17).
The WASP model analysis indicated no cumulative impact on water quality in the
harbor during the winter discharge scenarios for Alternative Outfall Site A-2 (Figures M-31,
M-32, and M-33 in Appendix M). However, impacts on water quality were apparent from
discharges under this alternative (Figures M-16, M-17, and M-18 in Appendix M) in the
summer scenarios. The WASP model also indicated that a commingling of the Deep Sea
Fisheries and Trident Seafoods discharges would occur. Based on the model simulations,
this commingling would result in a decrease in DO concentration between the two outfalls;
however, additional water quality violations as a result of the commingling were not evident.
Alternative Outfall Site A-3. Figures L-7 and L-8 illustrate the effects of west
and east wind events, respectively, on dispersion from Alternative Outfall Site A-3, which
is located just east of the headlands, directly south of the Trident Seafoods facility. Under
both west and east wind conditions, the tracer dissipated rather rapidly toward the mouth
of the harbor. Under west wind conditions, the tracer dispersed along the southern shore.
A relatively small accumulation of tracer occurred at the outfall site, which may be related
to the eddies which the model developed near the headlands. Under east wind conditions,
the tracer dispersed to the east/northeast.
The dispersion pattern obtained when the 32 hr, 5 m/s circulation model was used
to evaluate Alternative Outfall Site A-3 is presented as Figures L-15 and L-16. Under west
105
-------
wind conditions the tracer dispersed and accumulated along the south shore of the harbor.
Under east wind conditions the tracer accumulated in the vicinity of Alternative Outfall
Site A-3. The model indicated that there is a potential for these discharges to commingle
with discharges from Trident Seafoods.
The WASP model indicated a significant commingling of the Deep Sea Fisheries and
Trident Seafoods discharges with Alternative Outfall Site A-3 (Figures M-19, M-20, M-21,
M-34, M-35, and M-36 in Appendix M). The commingling would result in water quality
violations during the peak processing periods in both summer and winter.
Environmental Consequences. The tracer model simulations for both the strong and
weak wind conditions indicated that effluent discharged from the Proposed Outfall Site and
Alternative Outfall Site A-l would tend to concentrate in the inner harbor. Discharge from
Alternative Outfall Sites A-2 and A-3 was predicted to disperse to the east and commingle
with Trident Seafoods' effluent plume.
Both the PLUMES and the WASP model simulations indicated that maximum
discharges occurring in the winter months would not result in individual or cumulative
impacts in most cases. The exception was discharges from Alternative Outfall Site A-3.
Discharges from this site in the winter were predicted to interact with Trident Seafoods'
discharges and result in water quality violations for DO in the vicinity of Trident Seafoods'
outfall.
Both the PLUMES and the WASP model simulations indicated that maximum
discharges occurring in summer would result in water quality violations for DO for the
proposed and all alternative discharge sites. However, the sources of these violations varied
for the different alternatives. For the Proposed Outfall Site or Alternative Outfall Site A-l,
violations occurred near the Deep Sea Fisheries outfall and near the Trident Seafoods
outfall. These two separate areas of violations did not appear to be related. When
Alternative Outfall Sites A-2 or A-3 were selected, the two discharges (Deep Sea Fisheries
and Trident Seafoods) appeared to commingle and affect a broader area. Use of
Alternative Outfall Site A-3 resulted in the most widespread area of water quality impact.
Based on the WASP model results of proposed and alternative outfall sites, Alternative
Outfall Site A-l is considered the environmentally preferred site.
Economic Consequences. The alternative outfall sites are located farther from Deep
Sea Fisheries than the proposed site. Selection of one of the alternative discharge locations
would require lengthening the outfall and upgrading pumps and associated equipment. The
alternative sites are located approximately 1,500 ft (Alternative Outfall Site A-l), 2,000 ft
(Alternative Outfall Site A-2), and 4,000 ft (Alternative Outfall Site A-3) from the Proposed
Outfall Site. The cost of these outfalls could be as high as $1,000 per foot for deeper
sections of the outfall (Cronauer pers. comm.). Additional costs associated with the use of
the preferred alternative site (A-l) would be approximately $1.5 million.
106
-------
In addition to the installation of additional outfall pipe, Deep Sea Fisheries would
have to upgrade the pumping facilities for the discharge. The approximate capital costs for
resizing the pump would be approximately $2,500. The pump would require additional
maintenance and would be much less fuel efficient than the pump for the proposed facility.
BODs Effluent Limitations
The WASP model simulations indicated that the cumulative BOD5 loading
(Appendix M) and the BOD5 loading solely attributable to Deep Sea Fisheries (Figure 22)
would cause DO water quality violations during the peak of the summer processing season.
Effluent water quality limitations for BODs could be used to alleviate the potential water
quality impacts during peak processing periods.
The WASP model was used to determine the maximum BOD5 loading which would
not result in water quality violations for DO for the proposed and alternative outfall sites.
Because of differing current regimes, and the presence of the Trident Seafoods discharge,
each site would require different limitations. At the two inner harbor sites, which did not
significantly commingle with the Trident Seafoods discharge (the Proposed Outfall Site and
Alternative Outfall Site A-l), the maximum BOD5 loadings would be 34,000 and 45,000 lbs
(15,422 and 20,412 kg) per day, respectively. This limitation would reflect toted loading from
the facility due to the commingling of the primary and bailwater discharges under these
alternatives. For the two alternative sites which commingled with the Trident Seafoods
discharge (Alternative Outfall Sites A-2 and A-3), the maximum permissible BOD5 loading
from the primary outfall would be 32,000 and 10,000 lbs (14,515 and 4,536 kg) per day,
respectively.
Environmental Consequences. Limiting Deep Sea Fisheries' permissible BOD5
loading to Akutan Harbor would result in minimizing the potential for its discharge to
violate water quality standards for DO.
Economic Consequences. A limitation of BOD5 loading to Akutan Harbor from the
proposed facility can be achieved by two primary means: reductions in production, or
incorporation of pollution prevention strategies which would decrease the BOD content of
the effluent. Pollution prevention and waste recovery strategies applicable in the summer
are discussed elsewhere (see the Stickwater Recycling and Alternative Discharge of
Bailwater Sections).
The peak summer processing season consists primarily of pollock and consequent fish
meal production. The quantity of fish processed and the price of pollock and fish meal
products are extremely variable. To evaluate the potential economic consequences of
placing limitations on BOD5 loading, both the maximum-rated capacity (Table 1) and the
maximum seasonal production (Table 2) of pollock by Deep Sea Fisheries will be used.
Table 16 summarizes the changes in production which would be required under this
alternative.
107
-------
Table 16. Effect of the BOD3 Limitation Alternative on Daily Production of Pollock at Deep Sea Fisheries Proposed Shore-Based Facility
Daily Reduction in
Projected Recommended Percent Reduction Production Daily Loss of Daily Loss of
Outfall BODj Loading BOD3 Limitation in Production Required* Finished Product Revenue" Number of
Site (lbs) (lbs) Required (lbs) (lbs) ($) Months Affected'
Maximum-Rated Capacity (Table 1)
o
oo
Proposed
39,629d
34,000
14
126,664
32,933
34,580
--
A-l
39,629"
45,000
0
0
0
0
-
A-2
32,479
32,000
1.5
13,155
3,420
3,591
-
A-3
32,479
10,000
69
617,361
160,514
168,540
-
Maximum
Seasonal Production (Table 2)
Proposed
51,951"
34,000
35
387,274
100,690
105,726
2
A-l
51,951d
45,000
13
149,760
38,938
40,885
1
A-2
42,997
32,000
26
286,271
74,430
78,152
2
A-3
42,997
10,000
77
858,971
223,332
234,500
3
' Raw input.
b Based on approximate wholesale price of single frozen, skinless, boneless fillet in 1993 ($1.05/lb).
Number of summer months in which the recommended BODs limitation is exceeded each year assuming maximum projected production.
d Combined BOD5 loading due to commingling of primary and bailwater discharges.
-------
The maximum-rated capacity of the proposed Deep Sea Fisheries facility for pollock
was estimated to be 446 t (405 mt) of raw input per day based on the capacity of the meal
plant. The BOD5 loading associated with this rate of production in summer is 39,629 lbs
(17,975 kg) per day (7,150 lbs and 32,479 lbs of BOD5 per day associated with bailwater and
the primary discharge, respectively; no crab processing occurs during the summer).
Based on the maximum seasonal production values in Table 2 (August), the total
effluent BOD5 loading associated with processing is approximately 51,951 lbs (23,645 kg) per
day (8,954 lbs and 42,997 lbs of BOD5 per day associated with bailwater and the primary
discharge, respectively; no crab processing during the summer).
Table 16 presents the daily production and revenue loss associated with implementing
the effluent limitation alternative for the proposed and alternative outfall sites. The table
illustrates that effluent limitations for BODs would have the greatest economic effect if
Alternative Outfall Site A-3 or the Proposed Outfall Site is selected. A lesser economic
impact would be associated with Alternative Outfall Site A-2. It is apparent from the
analysis that the least economic impact would be associated with the selection of Alternative
Outfall Site A-l. There would be no loss in revenue associated with production at
maximum-rated capacity, and only the highest seasonal production periods in summer (less
than 1 month) would be affected by effluent limitations if Alternative Outfall Site A-l is
selected.
Barging of Crab Wastes for Ocean Disposal
Disposal of crab waste only is considered in this alternative. A deep water disposal
site for seafood waste has been designated outside Akutan Harbor in Akutan Bay.
However, screening and barging the solids for ocean disposal by an individual processor
results in significant costs. At the Trident Seafoods facility on Akutan Island, solids
separation through screening was estimated to require a capital expenditure of
approximately $370,000 (in 1989 dollars) (Riley pers. comm.). In addition, storm conditions
in the area may at times prevent barging of wastes to an adequate dump site.
Environmental Consequences. Barging of crab waste to an ocean disposal site would
minimize the deposition of solid waste at the Deep Sea Fisheries proposed outfall site.
Other fine solids would still accumulate in the vicinity of the outfall; however, impacts on
benthic organisms would be vastly reduced. In addition, BOD and nutrient loading to
Akutan Harbor would be reduced.
The loading of BOD and nutrients to the harbor could be further reduced if a system
can be developed to evaporate stickwater and dispose of the solids with the crab waste. It
may also be possible to collect and dispose of solids from the bailwater. BOD loading from
these three sources (crab processing, stickwater, and bailwater) comprises nearly 75% of the
total BOD loading expected from Deep Sea Fisheries during the winter processing season.
109
-------
Depending on the ocean disposal site chosen, the impacts on the disposal site are not
expected to be significant. Wastes would be expected to disperse over a wide area, with
little or no accumulation. Because waters are vigorously mixed in open waters, no
significant impacts on water quality are anticipated.
Economic Consequences. In 1992, the estimated cost for disposal of the crab wastes
generated by Deep Sea Fisheries through barging and dumping to the ocean was estimated
by Foss Maritime Company, using the following assumptions (McElroy pers. comm.):
• equipment and crews are supplied by Foss Maritime;
• contract duration is approximately 250 days (crab processing during October
through May);
• two dump barges are used;
• a 2,000 to 2,200 horsepower tugboat suitable for winter use in Unalaska Bay is
used;
• a trip out to sea to dump wastes is required every day;
• the distance from the plant to the dump site is approximately 5 miles; and
• safe and free moorage for the tug and barge is available.
Based on these assumptions, the total annual cost for a single facility to dispose of
crab wastes through barging is approximately $1.5 million. This cost estimate includes barge
rental, maintenance, labor, insurance, and all other associated expenses, but it does not
include fuel costs (McElroy pers. comm.). Annual costs could be reduced by purchase and
operation of a tug and barge by Deep Sea Fisheries; however, capital costs would be higher.
Costs of purchasing a tug and barge could range between $3 and $6 million depending on
the specifications. Annual costs for fuel, crew, and maintenance would also have to be
considered.
Another alternative would be a cooperative lease or purchase of a tug and a barge
between Deep Sea Fisheries and other processors in the harbor. The costs to Deep Sea
Fisheries would vary depending on the number of processors involved and whether a lease
or purchase option was used.
Disposal of Crab Wastes at a Landfill
The disposal of crab wastes by landfill burial would require solids separation,
collection, and transport, and landfill operation and maintenance. Wastes could be
transported by barge, vessel, truck, or possibly pipeline. In addition, vehicles for moving and
covering the wastes would be required at the landfill. The disadvantages of this alternative
are the lack of land for landfills, the potential for groundwater and surface water
110
-------
contamination, odor, aesthetic degradation, and attraction of vermin. The advantage is the
cessation of the discharge of crab wastes to Akutan Harbor.
A detailed cost estimate was not prepared for this alternative because of the
disadvantages. This alternative would likely have relatively high costs due to:
® capital expenditures for screens, holding tanks, and conveyance systems;
® transport costs;
© siting and land acquisition;
® landfill design; and
• construction, control, and monitoring of the landfill.
In addition, landfilling of seafood waste is not generally encouraged by the AJaska
Department of Environmental Conservation (Dolan pers. comm.).
Incineration of Crab Wastes
This alternative would require the crab wastes to be screened and centrifuged prior
to combustion in a furnace. Incineration is not viewed as a viable disposaJ alternative for
seafood wastes because of their high moisture content and low British thermal unit content
(Environmental Associates 1974). Disadvantages of this alternative include high energy
consumption, potential air pollution, and odor problems.
A detailed cost estimate was not prepared for this alternative. The EPA (1984c)
estimate for annual fuel costs alone to incinerate wastes generated at Akutan seafood
processing facilities was approximately $240,000 (1984 dollars). Additional costs would be
incurred for purchase of the centrifuge, screening system, incineration facility, skilled labor,
and ash transport and disposal. These costs have probably risen significantly since 1984.
Processing of Crab Wastes to Produce Chitin and Chitosan
Chitin and chitosan production remains a viable option, at least for a portion of the
crab waste. The only domestic producer is Protan Laboratories, Inc., located in Raymond,
Washington. Protan experiences shortages of waste crab and shrimp shells during the winter
and must truck in dried crab meal from Louisiana. While there is good demand for the
product, the supply shortages prevent any significant expansion of the facility. Protan would,
therefore, be very interested in securing other sources of crab shell in container-load
quantities. Protan feels it can expand its market if a dependable, year-round source of shell
can be secured. Protan could utilize about 25 t (22.7 mt) wet weight of crab shell per day.
The shell would have to be dried for shipment (Protan can use about 5 t [4 mt] per day dry
weight). Protan would be willing to pay about $150 per ton and pay for shipment to its
facility. If markets can be expanded, Protan would prefer to locate a facility near the
source. (Sargent pers. comm.)
Ill
-------
Environmental Consequences. By-product recovery from crab shell would decrease
the amount of shell discharged to Akutan Harbor by only 9%. The accretion of the crab
waste pile would be slightly reduced. The consequent decrease in the impact on benthic
communities would be small. A by-product recovery facility located in Akutan Harbor
would contribute additional chemical and biological oxygen demand to the harbor. The
BOD content of these discharges is thought to be about 1,000 to 2,000 mg/1. Caustic
chemicals are used in the process and must be neutralized prior to discharge. The process
also bleaches the shell, resulting in discoloration of the discharge (red color).
Economic Consequences. Deep Sea Fisheries could benefit financially from the sale
of crab waste, if capital and annual costs of storing and drying shell do not exceed sales.
Also, Deep Sea Fisheries might require additional land space to dry shell. If a by-product
recovery facility can be located near Akutan Harbor, shell could be delivered to the facility
without drying and the associated costs of that process. However, a recent economic
evaluation indicated that the costs of chemicals to process and neutralize process wastes are
high enough to offset any potential profit in today's market (Frasier pers. comm.).
Converting Solid Crab Waste to Crab Meal or Fish/Crab Meal
Seafood processors in Unalaska are currently evaluating a variety of methods for crab
waste recovery which may be applicable to Akutan Harbor processors (Frasier pers. comm.).
One potential method involves producing crab meal or supplementing fish meal production
with crab waste. This alternative use of crab waste could potentially decrease crab waste
discharges, decrease benthic habitat impacts associated with seafood processing, and provide
additional income to processors. The logistics, markets, and economics for crab meal and
fish meal supplemented with crab waste are currently being evaluated.
Environmental Consequences. If markets accept the addition of crab waste to fish
meal, this alternative could result in decreased crab waste discharges to Akutan Harbor.
Assuming all crab waste could be shunted to the fish meal plant, solid waste discharges from
crab processing could be eliminated. This would result in decreased BOD loading from the
primary outfall, and it would significantly decrease benthic impacts associated with solid
waste discharges from the facility. Reductions in BOD loading would be small compared
to other BOD sources operating in the winter, but would have no effect on BOD loading
during the more critical summer processing season. Elimination of the solid waste discharge
would minimize impacts to benthic invertebrates from smothering and decrease the effects
of sediment nutrient enrichment.
Economic Consequences. Assuming market acceptance of the mixed meal product,
Deep Sea Fisheries could increase revenue slightly once additional capital and operational
expenses were recovered. A feasibility and cost/benefit analysis is currently being prepared.
112
-------
CITATIONS
Printed References
Akutan, City of. 1982. City of Akutan Comprehensive Plan. Akutan, AK.
Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation. 1989. Water quality standard
regulations 18 AAC 70. 30 pp.
Alaska Municipal League. 1992. Alaska Municipal Officials Directory 1992. Alaska
Municipal League. Juneau, AK.
Ambrose, R. B., T. A. Wool, J. L. Martin, J. P. Connolly, and R. W. Schanz. 1991. WASP4,
a hydrodynamic and water quality model-model theory, user's manual, and
programmer's guide. Environmental Research Laboratory, ORD, EPA, Athens,
Georgia. 324 pp.
Baumgartner, D. J., W. E. Frick, P. J. W. Roberts, and C. A. Bodeen. 1992. Dilution
models for effluent discharges. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Pacific
Ecosystems Branch. Newport, OR.
Bloomfield, P. I. 1976. Fourier analysis of time series: an introduction. John Wiley and
Sons. New York, NY.
Brown and Caldwell. 1983. Seafood waste management study - Unalaska/Dutch Harbor,
Alaska. Pacific Seafood Processors Association.
Cooney, R. T. 1987. Zooplankton. Pages 285-303 in D. W. Hood and S. T. Zimmerman
(eds.), The Gulf of Alaska, physical environment and biological resources. (Pub. No.
MMS 86-0095.) U.S. Minerals Management Service, Ocean Assessments Division.
Anchorage, AK.
Crapo, C., B. Paust, and J. Babbitt. 1988. Recoveries and yields from Pacific fish and
shellfish. (Marine Advisory Bulletin No. 37.) Alaska Sea Grant College Program.
Fairbanks, AK.
Crayton, W. M. 1983. Akutan, Alaska bottomfish harbor study planning aid report.
Western Alaska Ecological Field Services Field Office. Anchorage, AK.
Dyer, K. 1973. Estuaries, a physical introduction. John Wiley and Sons. New York, NY.
Environmental Associates, Inc. 1974. Upgrading seafood processing facilities to reduce
pollution; waste treatment systems. Prepared for U. S. Environmental Protection
Agency Region 10, Corvallis, OR.
113
-------
EPA, See "U.S. Environmental Protection Agency".
Ippen, A. 1966. Estuary and coastline hydrodynamics. McGraw-Hill. New York, NY.
Jones & Stokes Associates, Lnc. and Tetra Tech, Inc. 1989. Trident shore-based seafood
processing plant, WA #25. Final environmental assessment. Bellevue, WA. Prepared
for U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 10, Seattle, WA.
Kinder, T. H., and J. D. Schumacher. 1981. Hydrograph structure over the continental
shelf of the southeastern Bering Sea. Pages 31-52 in D. W. Hood and J. A. Calder
(eds.), The eastern Bering Sea shelf: Oceanography and resources, Volume One.
Koutitas, C. G. 1988. Mathematical models of coastal circulation. Pages 49-103 in
Mathematical models in coastal engineering. Pentech Press. London, England.
Mills, W. B., D. B. Porcella, M. J. Ungs, S. A. Gherini, K V. Summers, L. Mok, G. L.
Bowie, and D. A. Haith. 1985. Water quality assessment: A screening procedure for
toxic and conventional pollutants. Part II. (EPA/600/6-85/002b.) U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency. Athens, GA.
Pearson, T. H., G. Duncan, and J. Nuttall. 1986. Long term changes in the benthic
communities of Loch Linnhe and Loch Eil (Scotland). Hydrobiologia 142:113-119.
Pearson, T. H., and R. Rosenberg. 1978. Macrobenthic succession in relation to organic
enrichment and pollution of the marine environment. Oceanography and Marine
Biology Annual Review 16:229-311.
Reid Middleton, Inc. 1991. Deep Sea Fisheries, Inc., Akutan, Alaska, shore processing
plant, project description and environmental review. Anchorage, AK. Prepared for
Deep Sea Fisheries, Inc., Akutan, AK
Sambrotto, R. N., and C. J. Lorenzen. 1987. Phytoplankton and primary production. Pages
249-282 in D. W. Hood and S. T. Zimmerman (eds.), The Gulf of Alaska, physical
environment and biological resources. (Pub. No. MMS 86-0095.) U.S. Minerals
Management Service, Ocean Assessments Division. Anchorage, AK
Straty, R.S. 1969. The migration pattern of adult sockeye salmon (Oncorhynchus nerka) in
Bristol Bay as related to the distribution of their home-river waters. Ph.D. thesis Oregon
State University, Corvallis, OR.
Tetra Tech. 1986. Evaluation of seafood processing waste disposal - Akutan Harbor,
Alaska. Final report. Prepared for Trident Seafoods Corporation and Deep Sea
Fisheries, Inc. Akutan, AK
University of Alaska. 1988. Final report on the characterization of Alaska seafood wastes.
Prepared for the Alaska Fisheries Department Foundation Fisheries Industrial
Technology Center. Kodiak, AK
114
-------
U.S. Department of Interior. 1985. St. George Basin sale 89 final environmental impact
statement. OCS EIS, MMS 85-0029. Prepared by Minerals Management Service.
Anchorage, AK
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 1974. Development document for proposed
effluent limitations guidelines and new source performance standards for the catfish,
crab, shrimp, and tuna segments of the canned and preserved seafood processing point
source category. EPA-440/1-74-020. Washington, DC.
. 1975. Development document for effluent limitations guidelines and new source
performance standards for the fish meal, salmon, bottom fish, clam, oyster, sardine,
scallop, herring and abalone segment of the canned and preserved fish and seafood
processing industry point source category. EPA 440/l-75/041a. Washington, DC.
. 1984a. Draft environmental impact statement for ocean dumping permit, City of
Akutan, Alaska. Seattle, WA.
. 1984b. Effects of seafood waste deposits on water quality and benthos, Akutan
Harbor, Alaska. EPA 910/9-83-114. Seattle, WA.
. 1984c. Fact sheet for Trident Seafoods Corporation NPDES permit dated June 8,
1984. Akutan, AK.
. 1990. Westward Seafoods, Inc., seafood processing, WA #40. Environmental
assessment. Seattle, WA.
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service. 1983. Bottomfish harbor study, Akutan, Alaska. Prepared
for U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Alaska District, Anchorage, AK.
Personal Communications
Anderson, Brian. Endangered species coordinator. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service,
Anchorage, AK. June 23, 1993 - Section 7 consultation letter.
Bundrant, C. Trident Seafoods Corporation, Seattle, WA. May 30, 1989 - letter to
Mr. Harold E. Geren, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 10, concerning
supplementary information on costs to recycle stickwater.
Carroll, Florence. Water compliance specialist. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency,
Region 10, Seattle, WA. Multiple contacts.
Crayton, Wayne M. Fish and wildlife biologist. U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Anchorage,
AK August 25, 1983 - letter to Mr. Harvey Van Veldhuizen, Jones & Stokes
Associates, Inc.
115
-------
Cronauer, Paul. Agent for Deep Sea Fisheries, CITICO, Port Angeles, WA. June through
August 1991 - multiple contacts.
Donegan, Doug. Environmental specialist. Trident Seafoods, Akutan, AK Multiple
telephone conversations.
Dolan, Robert. Environmental engineer. Alaska Department of Environmental
Conservation, Anchorage, AK June 1993 - multiple telephone conversations.
Frasier, Joe. Manager. Unisea, Inc., Redmond, WA. June 1993 - telephone conversation.
Fuller, Frank. Fisheries biologist. Alaska Department of Fish and Game, Juneau, AK.
September 8, 1992 - telephone conversation.
Griffin, Ken. Area shellfish biologist. Alaska Department of Fish and Game, Dutch
Harbor, AK February 25 and May 12, 1992 - letters.
Johnson, Brett. Atlas Industries, Bellevue, WA. August 1991 - telephone conversations.
Juettner, Robert S. Aleutians East Borough, Anchorage, AK. April 8, 1992 - meeting.
Kudenov, Dr. J. Benthic ecologist. University of Alaska, Anchorage, AK Multiple
telephone conversations.
Lobdell, J.E. Environmental archaeologist, Anchorage, AK. 1983 - letter report prepared
for Jones & Stokes Associates. Sacramento, CA.
McElroy, D. Foss Maritime Company, Seattle, WA. June 9, 1989 - telephone conversation.
Pelkey, Darryl. City of Akutan, Akutan, AK April 13, 1992 - meeting.
Plesha, J. Trident Seafoods Corporation, Seattle, WA. February through April 1989 -
correspondence to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency Region 10.
Riley, C. Trident Seafoods Corporation, Seattle, WA. Multiple contacts.
Sargent, Gordon. Manager. Protan Laboratories, Inc., Redmond, WA. June 15, 1989 and
July 14 and September 18, 1992 - telephone conversations.
Smith, Brad. Fisheries biologist. National Marine Fisheries Service, Anchorage, AK July
1, 1993 - Section 7 consultation letter.
Tritremmel, Erika. City of Akutan, Akutan, AK April 15, 1992 - meeting.
Winges, Kirk D. Vice president and manager. Northwest Regional Office, TRC
Environmental Consultants, Mountlake Terrace, WA. June 30, 1992 - letter regarding
meteorological data.
116
-------
Appendix A. Chronological Report of Field Studies
Conducted in Akutan Harbor, April 1992
-------
CHRONOLOGICAL REPORT OF FIELD STUDIES
CONDUCTED IN AKUTAN HARBOR
A project team consisting of personnel from Jones & Stokes Associates and Evans-
Hamilton, Inc., (EHI) conducted field studies in Akutan Harbor, Alaska, between April 6
and 13, 1992. The field studies were conducted jointly with personnel from Scientific
Applications International Corporation (SAIC), who conducted side-scan sonar surveys of
the harbor under a separate EPA contract.
This is a nontechnical chronology of the April 1992 fieldwork. It documents contacts
made, general fieldwork accomplished, and logistical problems encountered.
Logistics
The project team included the following personnel:
Jones & Stokes Associates
Rick Oestman Project Manager, Aquatic Ecologist
Dan Cheney Marine Biologist
Larry Larsen Oceanographer, Computer Modeler
Greg Volkhardt Fisheries Biologist
Jenna Getz Water Quality Specialist
EHI
Keith Kurrus Oceanographic Instrumentation Specialist
SAIC
Tony Petrillo Oceanographer, Side-Scan Sonar and ROV Operator
Peter Jepsen Navigator
The work was successfully completed with a minimum of logistical problems. Timely
and safe arrival of the scientific equipment was accomplished by packing all equipment in
one aircraft cargo container and shipping it as priority cargo between Seattle and Dutch
Harbor. Although this method was relatively expensive, it ensured all of the equipment
arrived on time.
A-l
-------
The weather was unusually mild throughout the study period, with relatively light
winds (0 to 30 knots) blowing from the northeast. A weather system that moved over the
Aleutians on April 12 prevented a number of flights between Dutch Harbor and Akutan.
The study team was able to fly to Dutch Harbor; however, if we had been solely dependent
on air transport, the cargo may have been delayed for days. Fortunately, we were able to
ship the equipment from Akutan to Dutch Harbor by boat upon our departure.
Deep Sea Fisheries supplied the study team with a 90 ft landing craft (the M/V
Flying D) as a research vessel. SAIC personnel decided the vessel was not suitable for their
side-scan work and requested that Deep Sea Fisheries find a suitable vessel. Arrangements
were made to rent a smaller (20 ft) covered skiff for the side-scan and ROV work.
However, the boat needed some engine work, and a generator had to be flown to Akutan
to provide a power source for the equipment. The change of boats and delays in receiving
the generator delayed the start of the side-scan studies by one and a half days. Once the
boat was operational, it provided a good working platform for the side-scan and ROV
studies.
The M/V Flying D had to be modified to operate bottom sampling equipment. The
modifications delayed starting the benthic surveys by half a day. However, the system did
operate adequately after the modification.
When the study team arrived in Akutan, we found that all but a few floating
processors had left the harbor. In addition, very little seafood processing occurred during
the study period. This prevented the study team from conducting extensive sampling of
process waste discharges. There were some short periods when Deep Sea Fisheries, Trident
Seafoods, the M/V Clipperton, and the M/V Northlander were processing crab. The fish
meal plant at Trident Seafoods was not operating during the study period.
All scientific equipment functioned adequately except for the ammonia and oxidation-
reduction probes. These probes were received late from the vendor and would not stabilize
in the field for accurate measurement of these parameters.
Chronology
April 6 - Monday
Study team members tested all the rented equipment including radios, side-scan
sonar, ROV, miniranger navigation system, and water quality equipment. Field gear was
delivered to the Alaska Airlines cargo terminal in Seattle by 1630 hrs and was flown to
Anchorage early Tuesday morning. Jones & Stokes Associates crew members flew to
Anchorage and arrived at 2200 hrs Alaska Daylight Time (ADT).
A-2
-------
April 7 - Tuesday
I checked with Mark Air in the morning (0800 hrs ADT) and found that the cargo
arrived in Anchorage on time. Mark Air transferred the cargo container to its facilities for
shipment to Dutch Harbor later in the day. Though the cargo was shipped priority, the
container was bumped to the second flight Tuesday because of the mail. Jones & Stokes
Associates personnel met Tony, Peter, and Keith at the Anchorage airport. Everyone except
Dan and I flew to Dutch Harbor on the midmorning flight.
Tony, Peter, Jenna, and Larry flew to Akutan on the earliest available Peninsula
Airlines flight. Greg and Keith remained in Dutch Harbor until the cargo arrived at
1700 hrs ADT. The cargo was transferred to Akutan by two chartered amphibious aircraft
and arrived at 2000 hrs ADT. All equipment arrived except two buoys for the current
meters. These buoys were too large for the doors on the Peninsula Airlines Goose, and had
to be transferred on a Mark Air flight the following day.
Dan and I remained in Anchorage and attended a meeting with several agency staff
including Valerie Haney (EPA), Brad Smith (National Marine Fisheries Service), Sandy
Tucker (U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service), and Bob Dolan (Alaska Department of
Environmental Quality). Wayne Dozel and Kim Sundburg (Alaska Department of Fish and
Game) were unable to attend. All those attending the meeting expressed a mutual desire
to use monitoring to acquire more adequate baseline data.
April 8 - Wednesday
Akutan weather was partly cloudy with light wind and temperatures in the upper 30s.
The current meters were deployed by 1730 hrs ADT following the arrival of the
buoys from Dutch Harbor. Keith returned to Dutch Harbor Wednesday evening, but could
not make connections to Anchorage/Seattle until Thursday morning.
Deep Sea Fisheries had secured a 90 ft landing barge (the M/V Flying D) for our
use. Peter and Tony determined that the side-scan sonar studies could not be performed
from this vessel. Rick Hastings (Deep Sea Fisheries) arranged to borrow Daryll Pelkey's
(the mayor of Akutan) boat, an enclosed 20 ft skiff, for the side-scan and ROV portions of
the study. The boat had engine and electrical power problems. Tony and Peter worked on
the boat, but could not begin their side-scan sonar work until the generator arrived (April
9). Peter installed the shore stations for the navigation gear. These sites were surveyed the
previous day by Dowl Engineering (Deep Sea Fisheries' contracted surveyors).
Larry, Greg, and Jenna unpacked the gear and calibrated the water quality
equipment, then conducted preliminary water quality sampling from the M/V Flying D. A
number of sites were sampled with the Hydrolab to determine vertical and spatial
homogeneity of the harbor. The harbor showed no signs of stratification, and there was very
little difference in water quality parameters between stations.
A-3
-------
Dan and I met with Bob Juettner (administrator of the Aleutians East Borough) on
the morning of April 8 to discuss the project and future plans for Akutan Harbor. After
the meeting, we left Anchorage and arrived in Akutan in the late afternoon.
April 9 - Thursday
Akutan weather had some clouds, but was mostly sunny with light northeast winds
and temperatures in the mid-40s.
Several problems were encountered in setting up the M/V Flying D for collection
of van Veen and core samples. The vessel was not equipped with a crab block or other
device to raise or lower the equipment. By midmorning, a system using the hydraulic
capstan at the bow of the vessel and several blocks was put together. This method proved
to be an effective means of collecting benthic samples. Dan, Larry, and I collected the first
set of 15 benthic infaunal and sediment chemistry samples from Akutan Harbor. We used
a Magellan geographic positioning system to locate sample sites.
Greg collected flow measurements from the larger stream at the head of the bay;
then he and Jenna collected most of the water quality samples and additional hydrocast
data. All but one hydrocast indicated that harbor waters were well oxygenated. A sample
taken just above the Trident Seafoods outfall indicated depressed oxygen in the bottom
waters (6.2 mg/1). Surface waters at this site were similar to surface waters in other areas
of the harbor (10 to 13 mg/1).
Tony and Peter continued to work on the side-scan skiff. The generator arrived
midafternoon, and side-scan surveys began about 1500 hrs ADT. Rick Hastings acted as
skipper on the side-scan skiff. The side-scan crew managed to complete the three major low
resolution east-west transects that evening.
Dan toured the Trident Seafoods facility with Valerie Haney and Bob Dolan. During
the tour, Dan recorded processing operations and systems with his video camera. Afterward,
he joined us on the M/V Flying D to collect and sort benthic infaunal samples.
April 10 - Friday
Akutan weather was mostly cloudy with light northeast winds and temperatures in the
upper 30s.
Tony and Peter continued side-scan sonar surveys, conducting higher resolution east-
west transects through the harbor.
Greg and Jenna continued to collect water quality data and samples in the morning.
Dan, Larry, and I began core sampling at 15 stations in the harbor.
A-4
-------
In the afternoon, Dan, Greg, and Jenna conducted intertidal beach surveys. Surveys
were conducted on nine of the 13 beach sites identified in the work plan. Tidal conditions
and daylight limited the number of beaches that could be sampled on Friday. The tide
height was approximately -0.5 at 1900 hrs ADT. Infaunal samples were collected from
sand/silt and gravel beaches on the southern shore and near the head of the harbor.
Samples revealed no intertidal organisms on the gravel beaches along the southern shore,
and few organisms in the intertidal areas at the head of the harbor. Several other beaches
along the south shore consisted of bedrock or were rocky, but supported diverse flora and
fauna populations, particularly in the mid- and lower intertidal areas. Notes and
photographs were taken of each site. Five sediment samples for hydrocarbon analysis were
collected at the head of the harbor.
Larry and I conducted a number of coring transects to determine the extent of
processing wastes near the M/V Deep Sea. We could not collect a core sample 40 ft due
north of the Deep Sea Fisheries discharge. Instead, we used the van Veen grab to collect
a bottom sample. The sample contained a number of whole crab carapaces and about a
dozen crab leg sections 6 to 8 in long. The crab pieces were relatively fresh, indicating that
Deep Sea Fisheries had discharged unground crab waste sometime during the last few
weeks.
While conducting core sampling in the outer harbor, we noted a large oil sheen. The
sheen probably covered several acres, was restricted to the mouth of the harbor, and may
have been concentrated by the gyre effect noted in the 1983 surveys. A sample of surface
water was collected for hydrocarbon analysis. We could not identify the source of the spill.
April 11 - Saturday
Akutan weather was cloudy with northeast winds increasing with gusts 20 to 30 knots,
temperatures in the mid-30s, and light snowfall beginning in the evening with approximately
8 in of snow accumulated by Sunday morning.
»Tony and Peter completed side-scan sonar surveys at about 1100 hrs ADT after
performing higher resolution transects in the vicinity of the Trident Seafoods and Deep Sea
Fisheries piles. Tony and I met to review side-scan records and determine where additional
ROV and grab samples should be collected. Tony and Peter packed the side-scan and set
up the ROV gear on the mayor's skiff. Dan, Tony, and Peter performed ROV transects
midharbor near the south shore in an area that showed some abnormal features on the side-
scan. The images were in the vicinity of where two floating processors had been operating
during the crab season. However, core samples and the ROV transects indicated these side-
scan images were the result of geological features rather than crab waste.
The first transect took some time as we worked the bugs out of the system. Also, the
wind had picked up and kept blowing the survey boat off-station, causing the ROV tether
to become entangled with the marker buoy lines. Later in the evening, ROV transects were
performed at the old Trident Seafoods outfall pile.
A-5
-------
Larry and I began collecting van Veen and core samples associated with the side-scan
work. Greg and Jenna collected additional water quality data and helped position the ROV
marker buoys.
April 12 - Sunday
Akutan weather was low overcast. Snow persisted throughout the day, with northeast
winds gusting to 25 knots and temperatures in the mid-30s.
Peter moved the navigation system from the sonar skiff to the M/V Flying D so we
could accurately locate dredge sites for side-scan verification. Larry and I inspected 20 to
25 Van Veen grab samples on this day.
Dan, Tony, and Greg conducted ROV transects all day. The transects were
conducted under the M/V Clipperton and the M/V Deep Sea at the proposed location for
the new outfall and at the old Trident Seafoods waste pile.
Jenna collected water samples for analysis of BOD and fecal coliform bacteria at the
Trident Seafoods facility, near the site of the proposed outfall, in the central harbor, and
over the Deep Sea Fisheries pile. Jenna also met with one of the laboratory technicians at
the Trident Seafoods facility. In the late afternoon, all samples were packed and logged on
the chain of custody forms.
April 13 - Monday
Akutan weather was low clouds with diminishing snowfall, winds northeast-east and
variable with gusts to 20 knots, and temperatures in the mid-30s.
Tony, Dan, and Greg completed the remaining ROV transects in the central harbor
and offshore from Akutan, and several transects at the new Trident Seafoods outfall. Peter
collected the shore stations for the miniranger. Because of the wind, one shore station
could not be retrieved. Deep Sea Fisheries personnel picked it up on April 14 and mailed
it back to Seattle.
Later in the day, Dan, Larry, and Greg met with Mayor Pelkey to discuss the study
and get additional information about the harbor.
The rest of the crew packed up the gear to prepare it for transport. Because of the
weather, there had been no flights into Akutan Harbor since April 11. Arrangements were
made to transport the gear and personnel to Dutch Harbor on the M/V Flying D. The
equipment was stored below deck to prevent water damage. In the late afternoon, the cloud
cover lifted just enough to permit two flights between Dutch Harbor and Akutan. All the
crew except Larry were able to fly to Dutch Harbor in the late afternoon. Larry opted to
travel to Dutch Harbor on the M/V Flying D.
A-6
-------
Jenna and I flew directly to Anchorage because I had contracted an infection that
required medical attention. The rest of the team remained in Dutch Harbor for the night.
The M/V Flying D arrived in Dutch Harbor about 2300 hrs ADT. A flatbed truck was used
to transport the equipment to the airport. The gear was loaded in a Mark Air cargo
container that night for shipment to Seattle.
April 14 - Tuesday
Jenna and I flew from Anchorage to Seattle in the early morning. Greg, Larry, Tony,
and Peter flew from Dutch Harbor to Seattle later in the day. Dan flew to Anchorage,
where he later met with Erika Tritremmel (administrator for the City of Akutan) to discuss
the project and future plans for Akutan Harbor. Dan returned to Seattle on April 15. The
cargo from Anchorage also arrived in Seattle the morning of April 15. All rented
equipment, with the exception of the radios, was returned by the evening of April 15.
A-7
-------
Appendix B. Circulation Modeling
-------
Appendix B. Circulation Modeling
This section describes the approach and findings of field measurements and modeling
of water circulation in Akutan Harbor. These modeling results and results of plume
modeling are integrated to assess possible site-specific and cumulative impacts of seafood
processing on Akutan Harbor.
In general, circulation in Akutan Harbor is driven by five mechanisms:
• freshwater influxes to the marine waters,
• responses to larger scale (regional) wind stresses that modify ocean circulation
patterns,
• responses to seasonal oceanic conditions,
• local wind stresses acting over the specific area, and
• local responses to open ocean tides.
The importance of each mechanism is dependent on the region in which a site is
located, the geometry and bathymetry of the site, and the time scale (minutes to months)
which is used for the inquiry. However, it is possible to separate these physical processes
and discuss their influences on circulation individually.
General Overview of Physical Processes
Freshwater Inputs to Akutan Harbor. Akutan Harbor does not have appreciable
freshwater influx, and freshwater inflow represents about 0.01% of the mean harbor volume
(EPA 1984b).
Regional Effects. On a regional scale, the winds over the Bering Sea and the position
and strength of the Alaska Current can cause temporary changes in the sea level in the
region. For instance, a relaxation of westerly winds can result in a release of pent-up waters
along the western coast of Alaska and result in a subsequent temporary rise in sea level in
embayments along the north coast of the Aleutians. Sea level changes associated with these
regional effects could be on the order of a meter. During the observation, we did not
document any such large sea-level changes. Accordingly, this discussion focuses on local
winds and how they influence the circulation in Akutan Harbor.
B-l
-------
Seasonal Effects. During the observation period (typical of winter months), the
waters in Akutan Harbor were unstratified. In the 1983 studies (summer), a weak
stratification was observed measuring 0.00025 g/cm3 at the Trident Seafoods facility and
lesser amounts over the main reaches of the estuary.
When a fluid is stratified, the density gradient resists the exchange of energy by the
turbulence and a velocity shear is necessary to cause mixing. The Richardson number (Dyer
1973) is a comparison of the stabilizing forces of the density stratification to the destabilizing
influences of velocity shear, and is defined:
The numerical model of the circulation predicts velocity changes of 25 cm/s over
20 m in the vertical. At these shears the Richardson number is less than 1.0, which means
the waters mix readily in the vertical and, thus, stratification does not have an important
influence on isolating upper waters from the deeper waters of the estuary. In this discussion
we will treat Akutan Harbor waters as unstratified.
Local Wind and Current Observations. Wind speed and direction have been
continually monitored since September 1991 at a meteorological station located on top of
the old processing building at the Trident Seafoods facility (see Figure 5 in main text). For
the purposes of this analysis, we used 15 min averaged wind speed and direction data which
were collected at the Trident Seafoods station coincident with the deployment period of the
current meters.
Three Aanderaa current meters were deployed in Akutan Harbor on April 6, 1992.
These current meters collected data on current speed and direction, pressure, and
temperature continuously until their recovery on June 4, 1992, a period of 60 days. Two of
the current meters were deployed at depths of 72 ft (22 m) and 82 ft (25 m) at the proposed
outfall location for the Deep Sea Fisheries facility (Figure B-l). The third current meter
was deployed at a depth of 141 ft (43 m) and located in midchannel, offshore from the
Trident Seafoods facility. Data collected from the current meters are included as
Appendix C. Table B-l shows the average currents observed at each of the three moorings.
The u and v components represent the east-west and south-north directional
components of the currents, respectively. Because Akutan Harbor has an almost east-to-
west orientation, a positive velocity u indicates a flow toward the head of the bay, and a
negative value u indicates a flow toward the mouth of the bay. A positive v indicates a
northerly flow, and a negative v indicates a southerly flow. The data collected from all three
current meters during the 2-month deployment period demonstrate that the predominate
flow pattern at the depth of the instruments was to the west (toward the head of the bay),
with a smaller southerly component.
B-2
-------
-------
Table B-l. Average Current Velocities Recorded by
Three Current Meters Located in Akutan Harbor
Average Currents*
Meter Location u(cm/s) v(cm/s)
Near Trident (43 m)
Deep Sea (22 m)
Deep Sea (25 m)
1.177 -2.66
1.305 -7.60
0.844 -6.81
* u = east-west directional component
v = south-north directional component
cm/s = centimeters per second
B-4
-------
Figures B-2, B-3, and B-4 show the relationship between the wind and current data
collected in the harbor. The current sticks are oriented such that flow into the bay is
represented by vertical lines projecting upward from the centerline of the graph. Northward
flows deflect these lines in a clockwise direction, and southerly flows deflect the lines in a
counterclockwise direction. To facilitate visual comparisons, the recorded winds are
presented in the same coordinate system as the current data. It should be noted that this
is the reverse of the usual meteorological definition of winds, in which the direction refers
to the compass point from which the wind originates.
In these figures, the lines represent the direction toward which the winds are blowing.
The lengths of the lines reflect wind speed. The units are m/s for wind speed and cm/s for
currents. The greatest average current speeds were recorded at the 22 m deep current
meter at the proposed Deep Sea Fisheries outfall (Table B-l); however, the midchannel
current meter near the Trident Seafoods facility recorded much larger fluctuations in current
speed and direction than the two current meters near the proposed outfall. The mean wind
velocity during the period of investigation (in the current data coordinate system) had a u
value of 0.418 m/s and a v value of -0.963 m/s, indicating that on average the winds blew
into the bay and to the south.
Figures B-2 through B-4 suggest that outbreaks of strong currents are associated with
wind events. The correlation is not perfect, and there are current events not obviously
associated with the winds as measured at the Trident Seafoods facility. However, the three
major easterly wind events (days 104, 126, and 144) are each followed by an outgoing
(negative) current which would be expected from theory. When a wind event blows into the
harbor from the east, it drives the surface waters toward the head of the bay, which sets up
a deeper water recirculation pattern, driving bottom waters seaward. Easterly winds appear
to enhance the flow of water in the bay. They cause downwelling at the head of the bay and
upwelling at the mouth of the harbor as the surface waters are driven toward the head of
the harbor.
Progressive vector diagrams for each of the current meter recordings are shown in
Figure B-5. A progressive vector diagram is constructed by graphing the cumulative
displacement a water particle would attain if, at each instant of time, it had the velocity
observed by the moored current meter. Because a water parcel advected from the location
of the current meter need not experience the same time history of currents seen by the
current meter, a progressive vector diagram is not a trajectory of a real drifter. However,
the progressive vector diagram does illustrate the relation between mean drift currents and
the fluctuating currents which show as departures from a straight line.
The Trident Seafoods mooring (Mooring 1) showed more fluctuations than either of
the instruments at the Deep Sea Fisheries mooring (Mooring 2). Of the two instruments
at the Deep Sea Fisheries location, the deeper meter (82 ft [25 m]) recorded the slowest
velocities. Note that the scale was changed to accommodate the reduced velocities at this
depth. The curves are labeled at 5-day intervals. There are a number of time periods when
the advective displacement is less than 1,000 m/day. These lulls in the advection indicate
times when the BOD in the effluent may impact ambient dissolved oxygen concentrations.
B-5
-------
2D .
W I NDS
UJ
Q
CL
CE
0.
-2a
—i i i i
96. 100. 104. 108. 112.
~I 1 1
11-6. 120. 124.
DAYS
"1 1 T
~i r
128. 132. 136. 140. 144. 14 6. 152. 156.
2D .
CURRENTS
Q_
cr
-2a
96.
148. 152. 15 S.
Note: See text for explanation.
Figure B-2. Comparison of Wind Data Collected at Trident Seafoods to Current Data Collected
from the Current Meter Mooring near Trident Seafoods
-------
CO
I
-J
2D.
WINDS
~
ID
Q_
SZ
-------
CO
I
oo
20 .
WINDS
~
0_
31
CE
0.
-2a
i i i
104. 108. 112.
i i i i i i i i r~
IB. 120. 121. 12B. 132. 136. 140. 144. 1H(
DATS
96. 100.
152. 156.
20 .
CURRENTS
LiJ
~
o_
si
a:
¦2a
•w
I i i
96. 10D. 104. 108.
T I I I I I I 1 I I 1—
12. 116. 120. 124. 128. 132. 136. 140. 144. 148. 152. 156.
DRtS
Note: See text for explanation.
Figure B-4. Comparison of Wind Data Collected at Trident Seafoods to Current Data Collected
from the Lower (25 m) Current Meter Mooring near Deep Sea Fisheries' Proposed
Outfall
-------
Mooring 2
Depth: 22m
105.
Mooring 2
Depth: 25m
1" = 10,000 meters
Figure B-5. Progressive Vector Diagrams for Three Current Meter
Deployments in Akutan Harbor, April 6 to June 4, 1992
B-9
-------
Tides. The current meter and pressure records were examined to determine the tidal
components of flow in the harbor. Tidal currents recorded in the harbor were extremely
weak (Table B-2). The K1 and 01 values were the strongest tidal constituents, with periods
of 23.934 and 25.819 hr, respectively. Based on this data, the tidal currents only account for
1.5 cm/s of the observed current flow. Therefore, the tides account for 10% of the variance
of the observed currents. This indicates that the influence of the tides on currents in the
harbor is relatively small when compared to other physical processes.
The overall tidal range or amplitude at Akutan Harbor is small, with a range of 4 ft
(1.2 m) between MLLW and MHHW. The maximum (spring) tidal exchange is less than
5% of the mean harbor volume (estimated to be 7.5 x 1011 1).
Modeling Wind-Driven Circulation
Wind-driven circulation refers to estuarine currents created by wind stress on surface
waters of the estuary. This stress causes two responses: (1) surface waters are pulled in the
same direction as the winds, piling up against any boundary (shoreline) impeding the flow,
and (2) a deep recirculating counter current develops to offset the water transport near the
sea surface. The amount of recirculation that occurs depends on the water depth. In
shallow estuaries, energy exerted on surface waters by the wind is transmitted through the
water column to the bottom.
Numerical models of wind-driven circulation must predict the sea level changes
caused by the winds and evaluate the currents at all positions within the estuary. Numerical
models are classified according to the completeness with which they address horizontal
coordinates (east to west and south to north) and the vertical coordinate, which is
perpendicular to earth's surface. Horizontal and vertical coordinates must be treated
differently in modeling hydrodynamics. The wind and bottom friction act primarily in the
horizontal plane. The aspect ratio (ratio of vertical to horizontal scales) for estuaries is very
small, usually of the order of meters in the vertical direction to kilometers in the horizontal
plane. Gravity acts to restrain vertical movements but not horizontal movements.
An estuary model which completely neglects the vertical component is called a two-
dimensional model. Such a model for an estuary cannot predict recirculation of waters. A
model completely solving the hydrodynamics equations for the horizontal and vertical
directions would be considered a three-dimensional model. Because of mathematical
complexities, the use of a three-dimensional model on an estuarine scale is prohibitive.
However, circulation models which can compute recirculation but simplify the vertical
component of the calculations are available (Koutitas 1988) and are termed 2-1/2
dimensional models. The alternative to using 2-1/2 dimensional models is to use models
composed of superimposed two-dimensional models (layered models). The choice between
the layered and 2-1/2 dimensional model approaches depends on the importance of
stratification in the embayment. Layered models are more appropriate when the
embayment in question stratifies. Observations of Akutan Harbor in early spring and
summer indicated that the harbor has minimal stratification. Thus the 2-1/2 dimensional
model is the most efficient.
B-10
-------
Table B-2. Values for Tidal Constituents in Akutan Harbor Based on Data Collected from Current Meters8
Trident Deep Sea, 22 m Deep Sea, 25 mb
Tidal
Constituent Height KAPPA Height KAPPA Height KAPPA
Tide Heights
M2
.0940
152.6917
.1627
141.5999
.0250
127.5664
K1
.1666
178.6087
.2680
172.1273
.0326
160.8326
S2
.0224
275.3664
.0175
267.9690
.0102
300.8354
M4
.0199
327.6917
.0254
283.7758
.0037
72.0103
Ol
.1239
153.3743
.1882
145.5049
.0241
134.5474
MS4
.0118
42.7621
.0099
350.9474
.0032
224.4072
u Velocity (cm/s)
M2
.3603
161.6752
.1226
201.1959
.0527
125.3883
Kl
.5434
341.0895
.1127
220.3048
.1181
315.9909
S2
.2163
17.0157
.1218
0.5381
.0671
29.7529
M4
.0872
165.7401
.0316
231.3107
.0203
41.0051
Ol
.5348
235.7854
.0920
245.0312
.0621
203.7997
MS4
.0904
63.6891
.0516
273.9102
.0073
250.1531
-------
Table B-2. Continued
Trident Deep Sea, 22 m Deep Sea, 25 mb
Tidal
Constituent Height KAPPA Height KAPPA Height KAPPA
v Velocity (cm/s)
M2
.1201
18.3193
.0695
77.5648
.0059
239.3019
K1
.2170
157.8784
.0506
334.8546
.0539
90.1269
S2
.1349
217.0813
.0179
99.5678
.0275
236.3204
M4
.0739
47.4321
.0304
136.0063
.0215
295.1946
Ol
.2573
32.5555
.0380
286.4638
.0485
297.0258
MS4
.0568
214.2430
.0109
301.7322
.0135
196.1509
cm/s = centimeters per second
m = meters
a Each tidal variable, sea level, u, and v, is defined by an equation of the form H = F x AMP x cos(A x T + [VO + U] -
KAPPA) where H is the tide height; F is the 19-year correction factor; AMP is the amplitude; A is the tidal
frequency; T is time; VO and U are tabulated constants; and KAPPA is the phase angle. The amplitude and
KAPPA differ for each of the variables.
b Data suspect because of insufficient pressure gauge resolution.
-------
Modeling Approach for Akutan Harbor. The model we have chosen for this analysis
predicts the depth-averaged velocities and the sea level at specific points within the harbor
given the assigned wind stress distribution. The surface currents, intermediate depth
currents, and bottom friction can be derived from the mean velocities. The model
calculations assume that the estuary is initially at rest. The calculations begin when the
wind starts to blow. For the model simulations generated for Akutan Harbor, the wind field
was considered constant over the entire estuary.
The bathymetry and geometry of Akutan Harbor were input to the model by
digitizing the navigation chart of Akutan Harbor (National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration chart 16532) using a UNIX-based Geographic Information System (GIS).
The GIS system produced a grid map contoured in 5-fathom increments to depths of
20 fathoms and 10-fathom intervals for the greater depths. The data were organized into
a 40- by 60-unit grid configuration, with each side of a grid unit equal to 420 ft (128 m).
With such a finely spaced grid pattern, numerical stability considerations dictate that the
time step (or the unit of time increase in each iteration) can be no greater than 0.5 second.
To describe the wind-driven circulation in Akutan Harbor, we used a numerical
model described by Koutitas (1988). This document, which is attached as Appendix D,
contains details of the equations and their solutions, taking into account bathymetry and
estuarine geometry.
The coding in the Koutitas paper is written in BASIC. This coding has been
translated into FORTRAN for this study. A listing of the program code is provided in
Appendix E.
Results of the Akutan Numerical Model. Model results are discussed for four
cases:
• a 20 m/s wind blowing from the east,
• a 20 m/s wind blowing from the west,
• a 5 m/s wind blowing from the east, and
• a 5 m/s wind blowing from the west.
The predicted circulation patterns illustrated in Figures B-6 and B-7 represent currents
expected to be present 4 hr after the onset of the 20 m/s winds. Figures B-8 and B-9
represent currents expected 32 hr following the onset of 5 m/s winds. At each grid point,
the computer used an arrow to depict the depth-averaged velocity and depth-averaged
direction of the currents. The head of the arrow is bold to help visualize the directionality
of the flow. The flow is toward the bold end of the arrow.
Moderately Strong Easterly Winds. Under the 20 m/s east wind conditions,
the model predicts that the developing circulation east of the town of Akutan would have
a net seaward flux of water over most of the central basin (Figure B-6). The inflowing
waters are confined to the north and south shores. The inner bay, west of the Trident
Seafoods facility, is predicted to have a circulation somewhat isolated from that in the outer
B-13
-------
CO
I
-fx
0 0 •-
Akutan
Trident Seafoods
'/^VV ' '
"/ ' ' W 1*~ ' * b ' ' I *
Y ^ " *vN----
Proposed Deep Sea
Fisheries Facility
// Y - - - - ^ -
Q O O O ^ • f » » / t / ,
Legend
T Direction of flow (f)
D O D
1 Inch = 1 m/s
Figure B-6. Predicted Circulation Pattern in Akutan Harbor, Alaska, 4 Hours after the Onset of
a 20 m/s East Wind
-------
00
1
Figure B-7. Predicted Circulation Pattern in Akutan Harbor, Alaska, 4 Hours after the Onset of a 20 m/s
West Wind
-------
03
I
On
ODD
Akutan
V
Trident Seafoods
D O D
ODD
1 ^ ¦ ¦ • • •
°
a Q
D O S t. Q O
- ° ° - ~ ' • • •
¦ S
1
D , , , , , • O ~ < . »
D O O O D O D O O <
. /
D S
\
Proposed Deep Sea
Fisheries Facility
o \ ^ t r , , , , ,
O O ^ i. \ , » , • •
oo\vta» 1
D O D a o \
o \ ^ S
ODD O O O o N
* * 4 \ °
' < I \ °
^ 4 fc °
^ S
. O D O K N
3 tf <
Legend
T Direction of (low ("t1)
V ^ ^
o a D n ^ r o
O O D
' • T
. R
» T
. 1
- 1
< 1
* 1
• 1
" ¦ ¦ • . "i
. . . . q
, « . . i
a o d d o a
1 Inch = 1 m/s
6
Figure B-8. Predicted Circulation Pattern in Akutan Harbor, Alaska, 32 Hours after the Onset of a 5 m/s
East Wind
-------
od
i
-J
Q ^ j 4
13 ^
DD S ^ ^ ^
^ ^ ^ """* —'* —* —* ^ ^ • • •• •
Akutan
Trident Seafoods
D O Q
O O , I
O D O D O D O D D
4 O O D
D ^ #
n a * # * > >
o f / S S * >
^ . .
* V I
\ t
E» ^ O O
O ^ H
, . , - v « . .
OOOO
Proposed Deep Sea
Fisheries Facility
s S
D O
. wS
. mi
. <5
. J
. J
- J
. J
.d
» d
OOOOO
H S S » • •
1 - >. - -
D ^ N
D D O
Legend
? Direction of (low ('f)
/ . - o OO
To q, ,
* A S
f o q .
* *
- 0 H -
- S
Ai 0 0 1
^ /o 1
1 Inch = 1 m/s
Figure B-9. Predicted Circulation Pattern in Akutan Harbor, Alaska, 32 Hours after the Onset of a 5 m/s
West Wind
-------
harbor. The model predicted that this cell would have a counterclockwise circulation
pattern with inflowing waters occurring along the north shore between Trident Seafoods and
the head of the harbor. The flows tend to be eastward near the old whaling station.
The expected increase in sea level resulting from east winds is shown in Figure B-10.
The changes in the slope in the figure, which represent differences in sea level increases
from east to west in the harbor, occur at constricting points in the harbor geometry (i.e.,
near the Trident Seafoods facility where the north-south width of the harbor is reduced).
This figure also indicates a separation between inner and outer harbor circulation patterns
as shown by the difference in the slopes of the sea level curves in the inner and outer
harbor.
Figure B-10 also illustrates the theoretical solution expected from the model if the
basin were of constant depth and rectangular in shape. In this case the equations can be
solved analytically. The slope is:
^ = 0.5 * Cw * Ws 2/gh
dx
where is the wind stress coefficient, Ws is the wind speed, g is gravity, and h is the
constant water depth. To calculate the slope for the rectangular basin, a wind stress
coefficient of 0.000005, a wind speed of 20 m/s, and a depth of 50 m were used. Because
Akutan Harbor has a funnel shape, the sea surface has a greater slope in the model based
on the actual geometry than it would have for a rectangular basin.
Figure B-6 illustrates the predicted depth-averaged currents in Akutan Harbor for
20 m/s east wind conditions. To interpret these averaged currents in terms of surface and
bottom currents, it is necessary to examine individual velocity profiles as they relate to the
depth-averaged currents generated by the model. The vertical distribution of currents for
three values of the depth-averaged currents are shown in Figures B-ll, B-12, and B-13. The
velocity profiles are calculated for a 20 m/s easterly wind. A near zero velocity has a peak
negative current (opposite to the wind direction) of about -6.0 cm/s. A mean current of -3.0
cm/s (opposite to the wind direction) has a peak negative current of -8.5 cm/s, and a mean
current of 3 cm/s in the direction of the wind has a peak negative current of -4 cm/s.
Although not constituting a full verification of the model, these currents are of the
magnitudes indicated in Figures B-2 through B-4. The current meters were located about
10 to 15 m off the bottom. In the nondimensional depth coordinates used in Figures B-2
through B-4, this puts the current meters near the depths of maximum reverse flows.
Moderately Strong Westerly Winds. Under moderately strong west wind
conditions, the model predicts that the developing circulation east of the town of Akutan
would have a net (depth averaged) westward flux of water in most of the central basin
(Figure B-7). The net outflowing (easterly) waters are confined to the north and south
shores within the outer harbor. The model also predicted, as with the east wind simulations,
B-18
-------
TIME = 4 HOURS
DISTANCE INTO THE BAY (GRID COORD)
Rectangular
Computer
Bay
Model
Figure B-10. Predicted Sea Levels Resulting from a 20 m/s East Wind along a Midchannel Transect in
Akutan Harbor, Alaska
-------
CO
I
o
CURRENT (M/S)
Figure B-11. Predicted Vertical Current Distribution in Akutan Harbor with a Mean Current Velocity
of Near 0.0 cm/s
-------
CURRENT (M/S)
Note: Flow opposite of wind direction.
Figure B-12. Predicted Vertical Current Distribution in Akutan Harbor with a Mean Current Velocity
of -0.3 cm/s
-------
CO
I
N>
N>
CURRENT (M/S)
Note: Flow in same direction as wind.
Figure B-13. Predicted Vertical Current Distribution in Akutan Harbor with a Mean Current Velocity
of 0.3 cm/s
-------
that the circulation in the inner bay, west of Trident Seafoods, would be somewhat isolated
from the outer harbor circulation. With a west wind, the inner harbor cell is predicted to
have a clockwise circulation pattern with net outflowing waters along the north shore
between Trident Seafoods and the head of the harbor. Under these wind conditions, the
net westerly flows tend to be near the proposed Deep Sea Fisheries outfall.
The expected changes in sea level resulting from west winds are shown in
Figure B-14. As with the east wind condition, the changes in the slope on the figure occur
at constricting points in the bay. However, in contrast to the east wind condition, the sea
levels decrease toward the head of the harbor. The figure also indicates a separation
between inner and outer harbor circulations. As with the easterly wind simulation, the
separation is indicated by the difference in the slopes of the sea level curves between the
inner and outer harbor.
Figure B-14 also illustrates the theoretical solution expected from the model if the
basin were of constant depth and rectangular in shape. In this case the equations can be
solved analytically. The slope is:
in = -0.5 *cw*ws 2igh
where Cw is the wind stress coefficient, Ws is the wind speed, g is gravity, and h is the
constant water depth. To calculate the slope for the rectangular basin, a wind stress
coefficient of 0.000005, a wind speed of 20 m/s, and a depth of 50 m were used. Because
the geometry of Akutan Harbor fans out toward the mouth of the harbor, the sea surface
has a greater slope in the model based on the actual geometry than it would have for a
rectangular basin.
Model Discussion. The following discussions are based on model simulations using
a 20 m/s wind from the east. The model predicts depth-averaged currents within the
harbor. Model calculations are carried out for a period of 4 hr from the onset of the wind.
The development of the depth-averaged velocities over time at the two current meter
stations is shown in Figures B-15 and B-16. The figures show that, immediately after the
onset of the winds, there is a wave-like oscillation in the currents. This "wave" has a period
of about 20 min.
We hypothesize that this periodicity results from oscillations caused when a wind
event is impulsively initiated at the wind velocity being evaluated, rather than building in
strength to that velocity over some period of time. To test this hypothesis, the model was
run with the wind speed rising linearly from zero to its maximum speed (20 m/s) over a
period of 20 min. This analysis revealed that the gradually developing winds resulted in
reduced amplitudes in the oscillations. The calculations for the gradually developing winds
are used in this analysis.
B-23
-------
TIME = 4 HOURS
DISTANCE INTO THE BAY (GRID COORD)
Rectangular
Computer
Bay
Model
Figure B-14. Predicted Sea Levels Resulting from a 20 m/s West Wind along a Midchannel Transect
in Akutan Harbor, Alaska
-------
MINUTES
SEALEVEL U VEL V VEL
Figure B-15. Predicted Depth-Averaged Velocities Resulting from a 20 m/s East Wind at the Current
Meter Mooring Near Trident Seafoods in Akutan Harbor
-------
MINUTES
SEALEVEL U VEL -— V VEL
Figure B-16. Predicted Depth-Averaged Velocities Resulting from a 20 m/s East Wind at the Current
Meter Mooring Near the Proposed Deep Sea Fisheries Outfall in Akutan Harbor
-------
The natural seiche period for a long narrow basin is given by Meriam's formula as
21 /(gh)1/2, where 1 is the length of the estuary, g is a gravitational constant, and h is the
mean depth of the water (Ippen 1966). For Akutan Harbor, this period is about 11.3 min.
This is less than the 20 min signal observed in the numerical model; however, Meriam's
formula is known to underestimate the resonant periods of harbors open to the ocean
(Ippen 1966).
Figure B-17 shows the spectrum of the observed east and west currents for the
current meter near Trident Seafoods. The time period is for days 102 to 105. The spectrum
shows peaks at frequencies between 1 and 1.5 cycles/hr. The sampling rate for the currents
was every 15 min. Therefore, a 22 min signal would be aliased (Bloomfield 1976). It would
be expected to show up at an aliased frequency of 1.28 Hz. This is the frequency at which
we see energy in the spectrum illustrated in the figure. This demonstrates that the seiching
predicted by the model is consistent with the observed seiching in the harbor. However,
because the magnitudes of the currents associated with the seiching are small (<1.0 cm/s),
seiching would be an unimportant factor in the design of the proposed outfall.
At high wind speeds, the model develops a numerical instability as it is run for time
periods in excess of 4 hr. As time progresses, the model tries to create eddies (i.e., the
winds drive the model system to turbulence) near the headlands on the south shore (south
of the Trident Seafoods facility). The horizontal scale of the turbulence is, at least initially,
the size of the headlands. The numerical resolution of the model (128 m) is insufficient for
flows on these small scales; therefore, an instability develops. We have no direct knowledge
of whether headland eddies form in Akutan Harbor during storm events. If headland eddies
do develop in Akutan Harbor, their effect would be to diminish the nearshore transports by
diffusing wind energy as turbulence rather than contributing energy to long-shore currents.
As a practical matter, we have no choice but to terminate the calculations before the
instabilities dominate the solutions. One way to cure the instability is to decrease the
resolution with which the harbor is defined (smoother boundaries). Because this option
removes some of the important headland features, we chose instead to truncate the run time
of high wind speed models to 4 hr. This time is sufficient to evaluate the effects of
moderate storms on currents in the harbor.
Effects of Quiescent Wind Conditions on Circulation
When the winds are weak, the development and strength of eddy patterns in the
circulation is reduced (Figures B-8 and B-9). Under these conditions, the model is
numerically stable for long periods. Runs of 32 hr are used to describe the quiescent flows
in Akutan Harbor. As expected, the model simulations indicated very little net water
transport within the harbor. These model runs were used in conjunction with the WASP
model for predicting dissolved oxygen concentrations (see Appendices L and M).
B-27
-------
10
10
-------
Appendix C. Current Meter Data Supplied by Evans-
Hamilton, Inc.
-------
VfF evans-hamilton,inc.
-:d;i;c ;: e - •< j: = -3 - - -',z a--\\\ s: = u y e t. • • o •;
Since 1^7 1
731 Norih Nonhlake Way Suiie 201, Seattle, Washington 95103
TeleDnone l206i 5^5-8155 * FAX '206) 5J5-8-i63
DATE. June 11, 1992
TO.
FROM:
SUBJECT
EHI JOB FILE: 289
Rick:
Enclosed are two sets of data files on IBM 3.5 HD floppies File names 718.dat, 3180 dat, and
7315.dat are the data from each current meter directly from the tape dump, these files are still in
"Aanderaa" units. File name 718.fin, 3180.fin, and 7315.fin are the final data files for each current
meter in engineering units. These files have been edited to remove the data before and after the
deployment when the current meters were not in the water. The *.fin files are ASCII, sequential data
files with each line containing the following parameters.
PARAMETER UNITS
Rick Oestman, ^le^ies & Stokes Associates, Inc
Keith Kurrus
Akutan Current Meter Data
Year
Julian Day
Hour
Alaska Local Time
Minute
Alaska Local Time
Pressure
PSIG
Depth
Meters
Temperature
Degrees Celsius
Conductivity
mmho/cm
Salinity
PPT
Density
Sigma-t
X Component
cm/sec
Y Component
cm/sec
Direction
Degrees True
Speed
cm/sec
Vr
Tilt
Hdg
The last three parameters do not apply to Aanderaa current meters and just contain zeros for place
holders
I have included Ihe pre-deployment calibration sheets, the field logs for each current meter, and the
data plots for each currenl meter Meter number 718 was on mooring #1 off of Trident, and meter
numbers 3180 and 7315 were on mooring #2 off the proposed Deep Sea outfall (3180 was the top
meter on the mooring and 7315 the bottom meter)
It looks like I will be going to China this weekend for approximately two weeks. If you have any
HOUSTON • WASHINGTON DC. • SEATTLE
(
-------
questions or need further help while I am gone, please contact Carol Coomes and she will be available
to help you Thanks for the work
Cheers'
-------
57 DAY SERIES BEGINNING APRIL 9, 1992
44.0
43 . 5
CD
Q_
uj^ 43.0
a
42 .5
a
UJ
LLI
~L
CO
o
CD
CO
U
a:
t—t
a
30
20
10 -
0
375 -
aj
3 250
L
4->
CJ)
co 125
TD
0
100
110
j.
J
v
u
- 250
T1
r
h 125
0
120 130 140
JULIAN DAY
Mooring #1 (Trident) - S/N 71B
150
-------
57 DAY SERIES BEGINNING APRIL 9, 1992
19
29
19
29
-| 1 r 1 r
~i 1 1 r
44.0-1
43.5
S]- 43.0
a cd
n 1 1 r
n 1 1"
130
JULIAN DAY
Mooring #1 (Trident) - S/N 718
144
142 £
CD
140
^ 40
32
31
30
29
33
- 32
CD
CD
"O
O
O
JC
a
~
31
26.0
4->
25.5 |
CUD
25 . 0
U)
-------
57 DAY SERIES BEGINNING APRIL 9, 1992
9
"1 1 r
19
29
_r j | f~
23 -
22 -
30
20
10 -
0
^jLx-
19
t 1 i r
n, n
"1—1—r
Jli.il
29
i 1 1 r
~r 1 r
375 -
u 250 -
CD
125
XD
0
100
110
120 130
JULIAN DAY
140
150
Mooring #2 (Deep Sea Fisheries) - S/N 3180
-------
57 DAY SERIES BEGINNING APRIL 9, 1992
Q_
LU
a
U)
i_
CD
-M
CD
U
LU
CD
CD
"O
U O
a o
z JC
O E
O E
>-
o
~
-
h- I
1-1 25 5 A
CO E ^ J ° I
Z CD
I 1 I "I—I
Q (J)
19
29
i 1 r
~i 1 r
TP***
76
74
72
- 40
32
31
30
29
33
32
t —n|TV<>^N^^
25 .0
~i 1 1 r
~i 1 1 r
"i 1 1 r
T
"1 1 1 r
~i 1 r
31
26 .0
25 . 5
25 . 0
100
130
JULIAN DAY
110 120
Mooring #2 (Deep Sea Fisheries)
140
S/N 3180
150
-------
57 DAY SERIES BEGINNING APRIL 9, 1992
9 19 29 9 19 29
] 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 | 1—~i 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 r
100 110 120 130 140 150
JULIAN DAY
Mooring #2 (Deep Sea Fisheries) - S/N 7315
-------
57 DAY SERIES BEGINNING APRIL 9, 1992
19
29
19
29
"I 1 1 1 r
27.5 irrW^VSr-T
X " 27.0
Q.
LU
(D
CD
26 . 5
25 . 0
j 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 1 r
i—ir~u—i/iZ-inj u~u—u—u—i 1—u li li u u u Lr~u~u~~Lnn_nAA_LnjuLn i n_n n * i
n 1 r
90
88
86
a
x
LU
(—
CJ
CD
4 -
32 -d
25.0
100
110 120 130 140
JULIAN DAY
Mooring #2 (Deep Sea Fisheries) - S/N 7315
150
40
-------
PERCENT OCCURRENCE OF CURRENT SPEED VERSUS CURRENT DIRECTION
LOCATION: Mooring #1 (Trident) - S/N 718
DATE: A/8 - 6/4/92
DEPTH: 44 Meters
NUMBER OF OBSERVATIONS: 5504
DIRECTION (DEGREES TRUE)
SPEED 0- 20- 40- 60- BO- TOO- 120- 140- 160- 180- 200- 220- 240- 260- 200- 300- 320- 340- TOTAL
CM/SEC 20 40 60 80 100 120 140 160 180 200 220 240 260 280 300 320 340 360
0 - 5 0.49 0.47 1.73 3.27 4.74 30.90 7.59 2.31 1.40 1.07 0.96 0.96 0.38 1.54 5.60 4.69 1.11 2.45 71.60
5-10 0.00 0.05 0.00 0.15 2.82 11.50 1.02 0.07 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.02 0.16 0.65 3.96 1.94 0.18 0.07 22.60
10 - 15 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.40 1.98 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.02 0.22 1.29 0.31 0.07 0.02 4.31
15- 20 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.13 0.15 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.13 0.40 0.29 0.11 0.02 1.22
20 - 25 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.05 0.04 0.04 0.00 0.00 0.13
25 - 30 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.02 0.02 0.02 0.00 0.00 0.05
30 - 35 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.02 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.02
35 - 40 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 O.'OO 0.00
40 - > 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00 0.00
TOTAL
0.49 0.53 1.73 3.42 8.09 44.53 8.61 2.38 1/40 1.07 0.96 0.98 0.56 2.62 11.32 7.29 1.47 2.56 100.00
-------
PERCENT OCCURRENCE Or CURRENT SPEED VERSUS CURRENT" DIRECTION
LOCATION: Mooring HZ (Deep Sea Fisheries) - S/N 31B0
DATE: 4/8 - 6/4/92
DEPTH: 22 Meters
NUMBER OF OBSERVATIONS: 5495
SPEED 0-
CM/SEC 20
0 -
5
0.09
5 -
10
0.00
10 -
15
0.00
15 -
20
0.00
20 -
25
0.00
25 -
30
0.00
30 -
35
0.00
35 -
40
0.00
40 -
>
0.00
TOTAL 0.09
20- 40- 60-
40 60 80
0.04 0.33 3.40
0.00 0.00 0.09
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.04 0.33 3.57
80- 100- 120-
100 120 140
12.59 35.85 15.83
1.49 1.64 0.25
0.02 0.16 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
14.10 37.65 16.09
DIRECTION (DEGREES
140- 160- 180-
160 180 200
7.42 2.42 6.30
0.02 0.00 0.02
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
7.44 2.42 6.31
TRUE)
200- 220- 240-
220 240 260
6.15 1.71 1.13
0.02 0.04 0.02
0.00 0.02 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
6.17 1.77 1.15
260- 280- 300-
280 300 320
0.91 0.31 0.16
0.04 0.07 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.0,0 0.00 0.00
0.95 0.38 0.16
320 - 340- TOIAL
340 360
0.22 1.16 96.11
0.00 0.00 3.G9
0.00 0.00 0.20
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.22 1.16 100.00
-------
PERCENT OCCURRENCE Or CURRENT SPEED VERSUS CURRENT DIRECTION
LOCATION: Mooring #2 (Deep Sea Fisheries) - S/N 7315
DATE: 4/8 - 6/4/92
DEPTH: 21 Meters
NUMBER OF OBSERVATIONS: 5495
SPEED 0-
CM/SEC 20
0 -
5
0.07
5 -
10
0.00
10 -
15
0.00
15 -
20
0.00
20 -
25
0.00
25 -
30
0.00
30 -
35
0.00
35 -
40
0.00
40 -
>
0.00
TOTAL 0.07
20-
40-
60-
40
60
80
1.36
1.31
1.62
0.02
0.04
0.07
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
1.38
1.35
1.69
80-
100-
120-
100
120
140
5.51
40.09
16.65
0.31
0.29
0.07
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0. 00
0.00
0.00
0.00
5.82
40.38
16. 72
DIRECTION (DEGREES
140- 160- 180-
160 180 200
5.13 7.77 5.81
0.02 0.00 0.02
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
5.15 7.77 5.82
TRUE)
200- 220- 240-
220 240 260
3.37 4.57 1.97
0.00 0.02 0.15
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
3.37 4.59 2.11
260- 280- 300-
280 300 320
1.26 2.13 0.25
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
0.00 0.00 0.00
1.26 2.13 0.25
320-
340-
TOTAL
340
360
0.04
0.05
98.96
0.02
0.02
1 .04
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.05
0.07
100.00
-------
CT2 AANDERAA
U=J INSTRUMENTS
Bergen, Norway, Tel. 05/132500
Check ¦ Out List RCM
Serial No. .""7.(.fc>. . . .
.1
Visual and Mechanical Checks
Epoxy coating intact (especially near conductivity ce
No corrosion, O-ring groove pressure case iv/'
No corrosion, other parts (\/
No marine fouling (especially in bore of conductivity cell)
Zinc anode installed H/
Rotor end play (0.1 - 0.5 mm) Qv,
Rotor threshold check 0V.
Pressure sensor oil filled [M /
Upper spool brake, normal &X
Pinch roller pressure, normal
Comments
d
Date Signature
Performance Teste (to be carried out with test battery and Printer 2152 connected)
First run, with 100S1 in sea water loop and orientation block facing east. Second run, with 1000ft in sea water loop,
orientation block facing west and after rotor has been turned . ff.Q . revolutions.
First Run
Second Run
Co
Ch.
No.
Reading
Reading
O.K.
1
2
I 00 3
3
3HI
4
63
5
3(o I
6
O
Ch.
No.
Reading
Reading
O.K.
1
Wo
2
3
3s)
4
5
6
4«J
To dacide whether a reeding ti O.K. compare with calibration iheet.
Duration of each measuring cycle . . . . . O.K.. if within ± 1 second of value stated in Test and
Specification Sheet (Form No. 160) following each new instrument. ' . .
Clock function: Power switched on . • • hour . . minutes. Acoustic Oscillator O.K. CD
First triggering . . . d&T. . . hour . . minutes.
Second triggering . cJ3 . . . hour .P.P. . . minutes.
Date
Signature
Deployment Preparations
Recording head, capstan shaft and tape guiding parts cleaned LM j
Fresh battery installed lx/ Type . . Open loop voltage . I'.lT. Voltage with 100f! Load . Tl.1 by
Tape threaded according to instructions Tape demagnetized
Lower tape spool labeled . . 2(6
Time of first measurement . . day . hf. • month .^year . . . .hour . Ir. minutes CUgmt J^j_T
O-ring inspected, cleaned and greased^}
C-clamps tightened M i no, l/fl^
Date ".'.D.!<7T Signature .l>»n.r>.
Retrieval Phase
Recording unit deaned and rinsed in fresh water ^
Time of last measurement . ,r. .day . S-. . month .""jc^year
State of recording unit
\ ^ ....
hour minutes Dgmt
Date Signature W-r^r.
Form No 1 76
-------
1AANDERAA
(instruments
Bergen, Norway, Tel. 05/13 2500
Check - Out Lilt RCM
Serial No. 3i0O...
.4.
Visual and Mechanical Checks
Epoxy coating intact (especially near conductivity cell)
No corrosion, O-ring groove pressure case
No corrosion, other parts
No marine fouling (especially in bore of conductivity cell)
Zinc anode installed
Rotor end play (0.1 -0.5 mm)
Rotor threshold check
Pressure sensor oil filled
Upper spool brake, normal
Pinch roller pressure, normal
&
P
a,
&
Comments.
merits. ,
Vv\
Date Signature . KAti.
Performance Tests (to be carried out with test battery and Printer 2152 connected)
First run, with 100fl in sea water loop and orientation block facing east. Second run, with 1000ft in sea water loop
orientation block facing west and after rotor has been turned . Ho. revolutions.
First Run
Second Run
Ch.
No.
Reading
Reading
O.K.
1
If 58
2
\c^>
3
7f\l
4
"30
5
6
0
Ch.
No.
Reading
Reading
O.K.
1
45fi
2
1023
3
4
&
5
9oS
6
41
Comments:
To decide whether a reeding ti O.K. compare with calibration shMt.
Duration of each measuring cycle . . . l.l.. 0,„ if within ± 1 second of value stated in Test and
Specification Sheet (Form No. 160) following each new instrument. _
Clock function: Power switched on . . hour .. I .. minutes. Acoustic Oscillator O.K.~"0~
First triggering . . . . <93. . hour . . i ID . . minutes.
Second triggering . .
-------
AAfUDERAA ^
1 INSTRUMENTS Check - Out List RCM
Bergen. Norway. Tel. 05/132500 Serial No. .U
Visual and Mechanical Checks
Epoxy coating intact (especially near conductivity cell)
No corrosion, O-ring groove pressure case
No corrosion, other parts
No marine fouling (especially in bore of conductivity cell)
Zinc anode installed
Rotor end play (0.1 -0.5 mm] [[]/
Rotor threshold check 0^
Pressure sensor oil filled
Upper spool brake, normal
Pinch roller pressure, normal
Comments
.QJv^ vV\
Date
Signature
Performance Tests (to be carried out with test battery and Printer 2152 connected)
First run, with 100Q in sea water loop and orientation block facing east. Second run, with 1000Q in sea water loop
orientation block facing west and after rotor has been turned . !-fD . revolutions.
First Run
Second Run
Commei
Ch.
Reading
Reading
No.
O.K.
1
3*3
2
lo33
3
C-fi\
4
(a I
5
%8
6
0
Ch.
Reading
Reading
No.
O.K.
1
2
109-1>
3
3
-------
Appendix D. Mathematical Basis for Numerical
Simulation Model for Akutan Harbor
(Koutitas 1988)
-------
48
MATHEMATICAL THEORY OF WAVES
Description of main variables:
W «= number of wave episodes with corresponding H,, T and
annual frequencies, available
PEK = period of reappearance of the required wave
Hs(I) = significant wave heights available
T(I) = corresponding periods
F(I) = corresponding annual frequencies
The application is performed with the previously found data,
HS,T, F (hindcast wave heights and periods and annual frequencies
respectively). It gives as slope of the straight line found by least
squares, —0.6878. It is found that for PER = 10 years, //J)o = 6.6 m,
= 12.9 m and T = 11.5 s.
2
Mathematical models of coastal
circulation
2.1 DEFINITION—THE GENERAL FORM OF THE
MODEL
Coastal circulation is defined by the development of generally non
steady velocity and surface elevation fields in a coastal geophysical
domain where the depths arc of the order of 10 or more metres, the
horizontal dimensions are of the order of 10 or more kilometres and
the geometry of the coastline is not simple. This geophysical domain
is connected to the open sea through one or more openings (open sea
boundaries). The circulation in these areas is generated and sustained
by various generating factors such as the tide, the wind or
atmospheric pressure acting on the water surface, the horizontal
variation of wave momentum due to diffraction refraction and
shoaling, and by the spatial variation of water density
The defined coastal domain extends from the coastline to the
continental slope, so it comprises of marine areas where currently
engineering developments are extensive.
The definition given for the circulation applies to the waves
described in Chapter 1. Indeed, the long-wave mathematical model
will reappear in the present chapter, but the phenomena to be
investigated here are differentiated from those of the first chapter, so
far as their time scale is concerned (hours or days compared to
seconds or minutes in the first chapter)
In the following sections, the phenomenu und the corresponding
mathematical models will be presented according to the generating
factors. This distinction has mathematical rather than physical
meaning, as the various circulation generating factors coexist and are
mingled in varying proportions. The general mathematical model
will be formulated in the present section and specific forms of the
general model in subsequent ones, derived under special simplifying
assumptions.
The general model for coastal circulation is based on the following
-------
50
iATHEMATICAL MODELS OF COASTAL CIRCULATION
physical assumptions:
(1) As the horizontal dimension of the flow domain L is several
orders of magnitude larger than the vertical dimension (depth H), the
assumption of nearly horizontal flow is realistic. The horizontal
velocity components u, d, are several orders of magnitude larger than
the vertical component, w. This observation is generally valid except
for certain minor regions of the flow domain; such as areas of sharp
bed slopes (>1:5) or areas where upwelling or fronts occur
The assumption of nearly horizontal flow contributes to a
considerable simplification of the model as it excludes the vertical
velocity component w from the main unknown functions and leads to
a hydrostatic pressure distribution. Mathematically speaking, this
assumption simplifies the form of the vertical momentum
conservation equation to
dp
0 — — = -pg (2.1)
oz
(2) The horizontal dimension of the flow domain is usually very large
in comparison with the magnitude of the horizontal velocities
developed within them and the time taken for circulation to develop
may reach the order of some days During that time, the effect on the
flow domain of the earth's rotation is such that the contribution of the
Conolis force (at least of its horizontal components) cannot be
neglected. The Conolis mass force is expressed by the term 2pil x V
where fi is the angular rotation of the earth vector and V the fluid
velocity vector. The relation between the Conolis and inertia] forces
can be expressed via the dimensionless number Til or QL/U, where
T is the time scale of evolution of the phenomenon, L the honzontal
dimension of the flow domain, and U a charactenstic velocity
magnitude The second number, known as the Rossby number, is an
indicator of the importance of the Conolis effect
The honzontal components of the Coriolis force arc given by the
equations
fu = 2fi(sin 104, even for minimal velocity values (order of
lem/s). The flows are always turbulent. For turbulent stresses, the
Boussinesq approximation is made, approximating the Reynolds
stresses by the turbulent mean velocity gradient. The eddy viscosity
coefficient appearing in this approximation develops generally in an
anisotropic way, depending on the nature of the turbulence. For the
simplest possible realistic turbulence closure in applications of
physical oceanographic scale, two final assumptions are made:
(i) The eddy viscosity coefficients are differentiated between the
horizontal vk and vertical v dimensions.
(n) Constant or variable values of and vu (in general v„ VJ are
adopted. In the second case the functional forms of v„, v;.(x, y, z) are
the simplest possible. Prandtl mixing length theory is commonly
used or in special cases, requiring ill.. most detailed vertical current
profile description, k or k — e models for turbulence closure are
used. The mathematical expressions for vv in ascending order of
complexity are:
v„ = constant
v„ = L0-k>12 where k = \(u'2 + u'2 + w'1) (2 4)
and l„,L0 are the mixing and dissipation lengths respectively,
functions of z. Figure 2.1 shows the most common morphologies
for the v„ distribution.
Under the abovementioned assumptions, the coastal circulation
model in its most general form is composed of the equations of
equilibnum of forces in a horizontal dimension, and the mass
continuity equation. According to the notation of Fig. 2 2 these have
the form:
-------
52 MATHEMATICAL models of coastal circulation
0.8 -
-
0 6 -
-
J vmox°
0 i -
/
0.2 -
-
/
0.67
0 5 10
0 5 10
Fig 2 1 Edd\ IIV own urul mixiny Ifnylh Jtsirihuiions for nJul tinJ winj ytntratrJ
/ItfWA
Fty 2 2 Coordinate axes and haste symbols tn circulation models
(1) Equilibrium equations
du du du du
— + u— + i' — + w —
CI dx ay dz
1 dp d ( du\ d ( du\ d f du
"p dx +U'+ dx (V" + d~y) + d: dz
(2 5)
mathem atical models of coastal circulate..
5.1
dv dv dv dv
+ u - + u - - + w -
('I <'X I'V dz
1 dp 0 ( dv\ d ( ()e\ d ( du
= ~pTy + a' + yx{V^x) + dy{V^y) + Tz[V''d~z
(2 6)
where u(x,y,z,f), v(x,y,z,i), w(x,y,z,t) and p(x,y,:,t) arc the
velocity components and pressure functions and v^.v^ the eddy
viscosity functions.
(2) Equation of mass continuity (incompressible fluid)"
du d v dw
dx dy dz
(2.7)
A more useful form for free surface, nearly horizontal flows, derives
from the integration of (2.7) over the depth
d_
dx
ud: + —
\
v d z -+- w
— w
- -»o
= 0
(2 8)
where ((x, y, t) is the free surface elevation relative to the still water
level (SWL). For w(x,>>,z = —h) = 0 and w[x, y, z = !,) di,/di
Equation (2.8) takes the useful form
d(, d
dt dx
u dz +
dy]
ac dUh dVh
V dz = — + -— + ——
di ox dy
(2 9)
where U(x, y, t) and ^(x, y, r) are the depth mean horizontal velocity
components and q(x, y, r) ([
-------
54 aTHEMATICAL models ok coastal circulation
then
giving
"K1
/ 0| /. | oi U]
/. 0[ll\ 0[U]
Orv„l
-------
56 MATHEMATICAL MODELS OF COASTAL CIRCULATION
Readers will recall that llic velocity distribution for uniform (low
(2.16) results in the following reliiiion of r,,/// to the depth mean
velocity U:
- = U2( ^ = XU2 = ~ U2 (2.18)
p \jn(/i/z0) - 1 J C
where } is a nondimensional fnrtion coefficient and C the Che7y bed
friction coefficient.
2.2 MATHEMATICAL MODELS OF LONG WAVE
INDUCED CIRCULATION (TIDAL MODELS)
2.2.1 Formulation in terms of the depth mean velocities
The circulation generating factor is a periodic or non-periodic
perturbation of the free surface elevation, arriving from the open sea
and developing over a period of several hours (in the most common
case of the M2 tide component generated by the influence of the moon
on the earlh, it is periodic with period 12.8 h) The long waves
arriving from the open sea enter through the open sea boundary,
propagate to the coastal area and are reflected from the coastal
boundaries. They are subject to various deformations due to
diffraction, refraction shoaling and fnctional losses of energy and
part of their energy is radiated through the open sea boundary back
to the sea.
The applicability of the long-wave mathematical theory can be
verified by comparison with the wave length L and the depth h. For
0[/i] = 100 m (L $> h). For wave amplitudes 0[//] = 1 m, the ratio
HL/h716 much greatct tli«m 20^30. The flow develops as a boundary
layer (h = <5). As this phenomenon evolves slowly with time the
velocity profile develops uniformly in stages,
h + z
u = -* In (2 16)
k z0
The wave celerity is 0[C] = 30 m/s, resulting, in the case of an M2
tide, in a wave length 0[L] = 1.3 x 10& m.
The current intensity is almost uniform over the depth, steep
gradients developing only near the bed. The uniformity of velocity
over the depth permits simplification of the general model (2 5)-(2 7)
by integration over the depth and the introduction of the depth mean
velocity values:
1
U =-
h
- *,
1
udz, V=~
h
udz (2.19)
MATHEMATICAL MODELS OF COASTAL CIRCULATION 57
In the case of homogeneous fluid, the pressure terms become under
the hydrostatic pressure approximation
1 (lp (1{- 1 (lp ^ mm
— =-0— - ¦ — = -g— (2 20)
p ox c>' and ||Ox respectively and
the C refer to the mesh centers. The coordinates of the computation
points are characterised by the i, j, n indices, the first referring to the
abscissa, the second to the ordinate and the third to the time. The
-------
vlATMLMATICAL MODLLS OF COASTAL CIRCULATION
Fly 2 3 Orlhoyonul \tuyyt'rt'd yrij for spatiul unJ fime Jim reti\uttini>
compuiaiion poinis and the indices i,j relevant to a typical mesh arc
illustrated in Fig 2 3
The terms of the Equations (2.2 I)—(2.23) are approximated by
finite difTerences Forward differences are used for the time derivative
and centered differences for the rest of the space derivatives,
synthesising an explicit numerical scheme. The computation of U, V
values at the n + I time level involves known values of U, K £ (n and
n + ^ level) and there is no algebraic system to be solved.
The functional forms
<4"/' (2.24)
K;" =/AU". k-.C'M) (2 25)
c:/'= /.(£/" ". y'.f1) (2 26)
facilitate the organisation of a simple integration algorithm subject to
arnumerical stability limit of the At value used That limit is given by
the known CFL criterion
,2 27,
From the physical aspect this inequality means that the At used must
be less than the time needed for any perturbation to cover the extent
of a mesh This limit results in greater computer time than that
required by an implicit scheme The At used must of course be at least
MATHEM A IICAL MODELS OF COASTAL CIRCULATIO
59
one or two orders of magnitude less than the characteristic time scale
for the long wave to develop, so thai no information is lost during the
integration in lime, l or cxumplc, in the case of a tuial wave with
T = 43,000 s, the optimal At would be At = 430/4300 s. Although the
advent of more powerful computers makes this problem of secondary
importance, implicit schemes have been investigated also for the
integration of thai numerical model. The most economic ones are
based on the ADI technique, solving successively along the Ox and
Ov direciions implicitly and thus involving a large number of small
algebraic systems instead of one large system in all the field
unknowns.
The finite difference forms according to the present explicit scheme
are:
*1 - u;,- ~ [tu:,,, + u;>> - (i/; + u;. „)']
C {h,j + h,_ ,j) "
k;" = k;-^[(k;+ k;,i)2-(^;+ k;-,)2]
At - aAt . .
" 2Al U"'{K~ 1'> ~ % ' " C'">" ¦>
2sk;vW + kj2
fur, (2 29)
cx + V.)
= c.y1 - ~ (tAV,>,y + v,,) - u,y '<\ + v.,»
-~ [k;:;<>>„ + k,.,)- kv 1 (*<, + v.>]
+ %&t (2 30)
where
k; = (k;+ k".,j+ k;.. + k- ,
ur^(ur,+ u-.t + +
The boundary conditions are treated very easily with the assumed
approximation for the coastal boundaries and the use of a staggered
gnd. On the ||Ox boundaries, V,' = 0 and on the |jOy boundaries.
-------
60
MATHEM VTICAL MODELS OF COASTAL CIRCULATION
U," = 0. On (he open sea boundaries either the total time scries is
known (n = 1, 2,. . .) or the incident part of it (( = + (r) is known;
for the riuliutcd piirl C,.) aination (2.11) is upplicd. On the boundury,
the necessary velocity values have to be given or computed via
relations based on the method of characteristics. A simple efficient
approximation is the assumption of quasi-uniformity of the velocity
across it, i e. dV/dn = 0
The synthesis of a computer program analysis. Program 7, is
straightforward The most important points of the program are.
(1) The scanning of the field The field is swept in the x direction
(index i) for successive values of the ordinate y (index j). The leftmost
and rightmost limits of the field for various j's are defined by the
integer arrays IS(J), I E{J) An illustration of the procedure is included
in Fig 2 4.
(2) The special meshes are characterised by integer indices describing
their properties. These are the meshes not belonging to the interior of
the field but having one or more sides along a coastal or open sea
boundary (dry meshes). This last type of mesh is used for the islands
in multipli-connected flow domains The characterisation and
enumeration of the special meshes is illustrated in Fig 2 4.
Numbering of
boundory mtshts
y
it
7
\
/
\
\
1
j
rv
2
\
I'
j
\
j.
5 6 7 8 9 10
-o x I
j
1
2
3
A
5
6
7
6
9
1 0
IS
2
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
3
5
IE
9
6
5
9
9
9
9
9
9
7
~
a
m
~
E
tu
m
Up]
a
Ftg 2 4 Morphology oj coastal boundaries and typical boundary mrshts
MATHEM \TICAL MODELS OF COASTAL CIRCULATION
61
(3) The l/(", V"t values arc described by the U(I, J), V(I, J) arrays and
the U," *1, V," *1 by the UN(I, J). VN(I, J) arrays. In each time step the
computed UN.VN values arc stored us U, V urruys after their
computation.
(4) After the computation of the velocity components on the mesh
sides their mean values referring to the mesh center (Ull+UltXj)/2.
(Kj + Kj* i )/2 are computed. These are the plotted velocity values
(5) The model computes a non-steady flow, evolving continuously in
lime due to a variable flow forcing factor (tidal flow) The same model
can be used with a cold start (no (low) for the initial condition and can
describe under a steady forcing factor the transient situation for a
steady flow final state. It is a time-marching type technique In each
time-step the total kinetic energy in the flow domain is computed
from the sum
= 11«u- + ur., j)2 + ( k; + k; .,) ¦2 > a* a r/s
• i
(2 31)
The steady state is reached when the ratio |£"'1 - E"\/E" *1 becomes
less than a test convergence value (10~J).
PROGRAM 7 2-D NON-LINEAR LONG-WAVE CIRCULATION
MODEL
5REM 2-D NON LINEAR LONb UAVES MODEL
10DlriU<20, 20) , UN <20, 20) , V(20, 20) , VN (20. 20) . H (20
,20),Z(20,20),13(20),IE<20),IB(30),JB<50),NB(SO)
20READDT,DX,CF,F,IM,JM.KB,NH,AMPL,PER
30DATA...
40FQRJ"1TQJM-1I READ IS(J) , IE(J) iNEXTJ
50DATA....
60F0RJ»lT0Jri—liFURI-IS(J)—lTOIE-liRtADH
I NEXT I I NEXT J
70DATA...
00trUKI-IS(J)-lTOIt(J)*l
90F0RK-1 TUh.b 1 RtADlB(K) , J b ( K ) . Nb ( k ) i Nt X TK
100DATA...
110N«Oj T-OiEK-0
120N-N*1iT-T+DT
130F0RJ-2TQJM-2IFORI-18(J)TO It(J)
140Z—DT/lVDX»(U(l-t-l,J>l
145NEXTIiNEXTJ
15OF0RJ-2T0JM-2 I FORI-IS
-------
62 ATHEMATICAL MODLLS OF COASTAL CIRCULATION
J > +U(I-1,J))~2>/8/DX+VV*-U>/2/DX+9
.HIMZU.JJ-ZU-l.J)) /DX-F»VV+CF*U< I , J ) »SQR /Hfl)
1B0N£XT1iNEXTJ
190F0RJ-3T0JM-2iFOR I-IS(J)TO IE
200UU- (U(I,J>+U+U>/4iHri
«(H )~2) /8/DX+UU* /DX+F*UU+CF»V< I , J ) *SQR /Hri)
220NEXTI :NtX T J
230F0RK- 1 TOKbi l»Ib(K) i J - J b < v- )
3400N NB(K)-1 bUTO 330,360,370,3UU,3VO,400.410,4
20,430,440,43u
330UN -UiVN -OibO T0463
3B0UN ( I , J ) -UN ( I ~ 1 , J ) i VN ( I , J ) "VN I I *1 , J I I 0)0 r0460
390UN -VN(I,0)iUN(I,J)-UN(I,J-l)IG0T046U
41OUN iVN < I ,J > -VN < 1 ,J*1 ) IbOl0460
420UN(I,J)-UN(I+1,J > iVN(I,J)-Oi00T0460
430UN(1 + 1,J)-UN(I,J)iVN(I,J)-OiG0T0460
440VN(I,J + l)-VN -VN(I,J + l) I UN -Oi&0T046O
460Z(I,J)-AMPL*9IN(2 * PI» T/PER)
463NEXTK
470F0RJ—lTOJMiFORI — lTOIMiU(I,J)-UN < I ,J) I V INT(N/2) THEN G0T0120
490EK—01 F0RJ»2T0Jf1-2i FOR I - I S < J ) TO IE (J > i EK-EK+ < CU
(IpJ)+U(I + lpJ))'"2+(V(I,J)+V(I>J + l))^2)»H(IpJ)/a IN
EXTIiNEXTJ
500PRINTN,EK
310PRINT"UU" i FORJ-JM-2 TO 2 STEF-1 J FOR I-2TOIM-2i
PRlNT(U(I,J)+UCI+l,J))/2|iNEXTliPRlNTiNtXTJ
320PRINT"VV"iFONJ-JM-2 TO 2 STEP-1 I HON I —2TOIM-2 I
PRINT < V( I,J > +V < I,J + 1 ) ) /2| iNEXTIiPHINTiNEXTJ
330PR 1 NT " Z Z " iFORJ-Jn-2 TO 2 TEP- 1 i HOR I - 2T0 I M-2
iPRINTZ(I,J)|iNEXTI iPRINTiNEXTJ
340IFN
-------
64 MTHEM \TICAL MODELS OK COASTAL CIRCULATION
The evolution of the free surface during a wave period (t - t + T)
along two main direction:, of the flow domain is illustrated in Fig. 2.6
The influence of ihc Coriolis cffcci in shown from the surface nlopc
along the section b-b. I his slope produces the velocity component in
the x direction.
The differences of the velocity hodographs (tidal velocity ellipses)
1 t (ml
I
I.2T/-
.3T^
I •AT.
1.2T
b
J
t tg 2 6 Evolution oj jre? \urfute *vith ttmt along meltons u-u, h-b
MATHEMATICAL MODELS OF COASTAL CIRCULATIO.
6T/,o
0 2-
8T r
'V',1
/.
I I
, /
r
:• 4T/io
if
0 2
2 T
/10
0 2
Poinl A
1U
21
10 -I
0<.i
i
»
"1
i r
II'
10
V(m/#l
; AT
; /10
0 4
.u(n%>
6T
/10
-0 A
Point B
Fty 2 7 Velocity hodoyruphs ut points A unj B
at the points A and fi, shown in Fig 2.7. both with respect to the
direction of rotation and the velocity magnitude, arc due to the
Conolis effect and the depth difference.
2.2.3 1-D circulation modeJ in a channel of varying cross-section
In some estuaries the flow domain has a length dimension much
greater than the width. In that cu.se the model cun he further
simplified by integration and averaging over the width dimension
The velocities developing mainly along the longitudinal dimension
can refer to the whole cross-section of the channel The cross-section
of the l-D channel arc approximated by orthogonal parallelograms
in (his version of the model These may be of varying depth .ind width
along the longitudinal axis Ox. The long-wave model (actually the
generalised St. Venant model) is written in terms of the unknown
functions of discharge ()(*. I) and the water surface elevation £(.*, 0
measured from the horizontal SWL. The equilibrium of force and
mass continuity equations, according to the notation of Fig 2 8, are
written.
— + = 0
di B dx
clQ
dQ ,1Q2/A DC
—— + — = — q A —
di dx dx
yASf
(2.32)
(2 33)
-------
MATHEMATICAL MODLLS OK COASTAL CIRCULA I ION
I I
_L
T«
77:
hjf^r->=T=
•4
i
-B ,-JT
-~
4 0
0 computofion Q
A computolion £
f >y -«V /-D l(>nQ-*ai r model Huw domum dt\t rtrttouhun and iomputatmn point* in
(he x-t planf
where Ss the slope of the energy line, expressed according to the
Chezy law, by the equation
U1 ( A \
Sf = | R = — = hydraulic radius ) (2 34)
C*R P
In (2 34) a local energy loss term, in abrupt channel enlargements,
can be included, expressed as
Ah = (AU)2/2g (2 35)
The numerical solution scheme to be presented is based on finite
differences. An explicit scheme on a staggered grid is used. Figure 2.8
illustrates the location of the computation of Q,{, functions on the
i plane.
The finite difference form of Equations (2.32), (2.33), is
i _ /'»-) _2 O" - O"
± ^—= — ^ (2.36)
Ar B, + Bltl Ax
MATHEMATICAL MODELS OF COASTAL CIRCULATION
67
-------
MATHEM \TICAL MODELS OF COASTAL CIRCU, ON
PROGRAM 8. I-D NON-LINF.AR TIDAL CIRCULATION
MODLL
5RI£tt 1-D NONlINLAh TIDttL U1HCULMT1UN MODEL
10D1M U (SO) , UN (30) , HOO) , Z (30) , R (30) , BOO) , A (S<.
) , HO(50)
20READ IM.DT,DX.C.PR,ZO,NM,bK
23DATA. . .
3OF0RI-lTOIMiREADb(I) i NEXT I
33DATA...
40F0RI-1T0IMIREADHO(I) iH(I)-HO(I)iNEXT I
43I)ATA...
50N-OiT-O
60N-N+1iT-T *DT
70F0RI-2T0IM-liH-HO -ft(!)/(& -U < I ) > /
(I > +&(I~1) > »2iNEXT I
100Z(l)-Z0*SIN(2*Pl»T/Ph>
U0F0RI-2T0IM-1 1 VV-0
120IF&( I-t-i > >b < I-l ) ANDU ( I ) >0 THEN bOTOliU
130IF& ( 1 + 1 ) <.&( I-1 ) ANDQ ( I ) <.O THEN bOTOlSO
14OG0T0160
130W- (Abb (U ( I«-l ) /A ( I + 1 ) ) -Abb (U ( 1-1 ) /« ( 1-1 ) ) ) -2/
4./9.b/DX
160QN -DT*(Cj(I + l>~2/A~2/A»(
HJ < I > / A ( I ) ) ^2/C^2/F< ( I ) + W> *SbN (U ( I > ) i NEXT 1
170QM(1)-UN(2)
1 BOON bK CiQ TO 1 9u , 200
190QN ( IM> -Jt ( IM- O^feUR <9.b*B(ln>»A(IM)>i G0TQ2 10
200QN(IM)-O
21 OFORI-lTUIMiQ INT (N/20) THEN O1OTO6O
230PRINT1PR INTN1FORI—ITUIMiPRINTZ(I)|1NEXTI1PRIN
TiFORI-lTOIMiPRINTQ< I) /A(l) (1NEX TIt PR INT
240 I FN< NM THEN C5OTQ6O
230END
Description of main variables
DT, DX = lime and space discretisation steps
IM = number of cross-sections 111 the field discretisation
C = Chezy bed friction coefficient
PR = long-wave period
ZO = long-wave amplnude
NM = number of time steps for the numerical solution
MATHEMATICAL MODELS OF COASTAL CIRCULATE 69
BK = purumeler defining the type of downstream boundary
condition (BK = 1 -»free transmission BK = 2 — full
rrflci'lion)
B(l) = width of cross-section #/
HO(I) = initial depth at section #i.
The application refers to a flow domain illustrated in Fig 2 9 It is a
long channel of length = 2 km, of depth = 10 m and width varying
from 30 to 10 m. At the upstream end the free surface vanes
sinusoidally with period T = 500 s and amplitude 1 m
The evolution of a free surface and the velocity along the channel is
required. A free transmission downstream boundary condition
(connection of the channel end to a large water body) is assumed The
data are: IM = 21, DT = 5 s, DX = 100 m, C= 50 m Vs. PR = 500 s.
ZO = 1 m, NM = 1000, BK = 1, H0(I) = 10 m, B(l) varying linearly
from 10 to 10 m Figure 2.10 contains the free surface profiles along
the channel during one wave cycle after the establishment of periodic
conditions in the channel. Due to the type of downstream boundary
condition, this is achieved only after the 2nd wave cycle, starling with
no flow initial conditions (Q, = 0, (, = 0, for / = 0).
2.2.4 Linearised model for long-wave induced circulation
A realistic simplification of the mathematical model for long-wave
induced circulation is introduced by linearisation (disregarding non-
linear convective and friction terms) and leads to a practical and
efTicieni form. The formulation starts from liquations (2 21) and
(2 22), dropping the convective terms. Solving successively the two
equations for the ( function in one dimension, it is found.
Ih
= -g
<5C U\U\
dx
hC2
Ax ¦100m
¦iV
(2 45)
Fig 2 V Flo* domain Jim re ligation for J-D lony-mii r I
-------
70 MATMtM \TICAL MOOruS Ol- COASTAL CIRCULATION
/ ,)(
This is a 2nd order hyperbolic equation completed by a friction
term (generalised telegraphy equation). It describes the variation
only of £ in time and space. If the velocity magnitudes are necessary at
various locations of the flow domain those can be computed from the
known C and grad £ values by time integration of equations having
the form of (2 45). Equation (2.50) does not contain the Coriolis term.
Simple mathematical manipulation shows that when thut term is
important the right hand side of (2 50) has to be completed by u term
- J1 ¦ C where / = 2H sin >,-- c,\„) + (h,j., + mc,%, - cr>)
- <\ + hIJ.l )(c- - c,"., j] - aa/(c- - err1) (2 53>
On the coastal boundary not parallel to the Ox, Oy axes and not
coinciding with mesh sides, the approximation of the d^/dn derivative
introduces an external node to the computations where the ( value.
-------
72 IATHEM ATICAL MODELS OF COASTAL CIRCULATION
Fiy 2 11 Coasiat bounJory node notations for 2-D linear lony-^ave model
^9
according to the notation of Fig 2.11, is approximated by
Ci=C«. = Cj + (Cj - CjWAx (2.54)
where the (2,(3 are known internal values and a is a known line
segment.
A linear long-wave model based on the forgoing numerical analysis
is programmed in BASIC, Program 9. The program refers lo a flow
domain bounded laterally by a coast of arbitrary geometry and
presenting a lower open-sea boundary parallel to Ox. The
bathymetry is also variable
PROGRAM 9. 2-D LINEAR TIDAL CIRCULATION MODEL
"REM 2-D LINEAR TIDAL CIRCULATION MODEL
10DIMH(20,20) , Z1 (20,20) ,Z(20.20) , Z0(20,20) , IS<2
0) , IE <2u) , I 1(50) , 12(SO) , 13(30),J 1 (SO),J2(SO) ,J 3(SO
),EL(50)
20READ DT,DX,PR,AO,CF,IM,JM,NM,bR
30DATA...
AOFORJ-lTOJtt-1 iREADIS , I3(K) ,
J 3(K) ,EL(K) iNtXTK
70DATA...
80FORJ-1TOJM-1iFOR I-16(J)TOIE(J)iH(I,J)-301 NEXT
IlNEXTJ
U0T-0iN-0
120T-T + DTI N-N+l
130F0RJ-2T0JM-11FORI-IS(J>T0IE(J>iZlU,J)-2*Z(l,
J > - ZO < I , J ) «-DT~2/DX~2/2*S>. B1»((H(I + 1,J)+H(I,J))*(Z(
I+1,J)-Z(I,J))-(H(I,J)+H(I-1,J))>(Z(I,J)-Z(I-1,J))
~-(H(I,J)*H(I,J
-1 ) ) * (Z ( I ,J)-Z (I,J-l ) ) )
140Zl(I,J)-Zl(I,J)-CF»DT»(Z(I,J)-Z0(I,J))lNEXTIl
MATHEM UICAL MODELS OF COASTAL CIRCULATE .. 73
, r j
I6OFORK-ITOBR1 11-11 (K) 1 12-12(K) 1 13-13(K) iJI-Jl *EL <
K)iNEXTK
1H0F0RI-IS DX/C THtN fcOT0210
2OOZ1-0I Ci0T0220
210Z1-Z(X.1> - AU*SIN ( 2»P I * ( T-DT) /PP) iZ>Z(I,2)-«U
«S31N(2*P1* (T-DT) /PR-DX/L) 1 Z 1»Z 1 +DT/DX *C* (Z2-Z 1 )
220Z 1(1,1) -Z 1+A0*SIN (2*PI * T/PR) 1NtXTI ^
23OF0RJ-lTOJMiFOR 1-1TOIMi ZO(l,J)-Z(I,J)iZ(l.J)-Z
1 ( I ,J) 1 NEXT I INEXTJ
240IFN/10<>INT(N/lO) THEN t>0r012C
250PRINTIPRINTTiFORJ-JM TO 1 STEP-11 FOR 1 - 1TU1M1P
R1NTZ ( I ,J) : 1NEXTI1PRINTiNEXTJ
2601FN
-------
.MTHFMATICAL MODELS OF COASTAL i TULATION
I 23 456789 (I)
l i 1 r 1 1 1 1 1
Open ito boundory
Fiy 2 12 Cow-tal Jomuin of 2-D tinrur lony-*ui* model upplu alien
Tabic 2.1
J
IS
IE
1
2
8
2
2
8
3
2
8
4
3
7
5
3
7
6
4
. 6
7
4
6
8
5
5
2.3 WIND GENERATED CIRCULATION
The wind generaied circulation model describes the phenomenon
under the same assumptions made in Section 2.1. So Ihe general
circulation equations (2.5) to (2 7) are valid in this case, too.
The circulation is forced by the shear stresses on the water surface
exercised by the wind. They appear in the model in the form of free
surface boundary conditions (2.13), (2 14) For small scale
geophysical domains (O[L]=10*m) the wind velocity may be
assumed uniform and thus the components are constant in
M
MATICAL MODELS OF COASTAL CIRCULATE
Tib(e 2.2
K
J,
1,
h
J,
H
1
1
2
2
2
2
1
0 5
2
1
3
2
3
2
2
0 5
3
2
4
3
4
3
1
0 }
4
2
5
3
5
3
4
0 5
5
3
6
4
6
4
5
0 5
6
3
7
4
7
4
6
0 5
7
4
8
5
8
5
7
0 5
8
5
9
5
8
5
8
0
9
8
5
8
5
7
0 5
10
7
7
6
7
6
6
0 5
11
7
6
6
6
6
s
0 5
12
8
5
7
5
7
4
0 5
13
8
4
7
4
7
.1
0 5
14
9
3
8
3
8
T
0 5
15
9
2
8
2
8
1
0 5
space but variable in time For larger geophysical domains this
assumption is not realistic and the influence of wind nonuniformity
has to be checked.
The wind generated waves are not incorporated in the model. Only
the wind induced shear The free surface is approximated by the mean
level (with respect to the waves). The inclusion of the influence of
waves in the wind generated circulation can be done implicitly in a
parametric manner during the model calibration (determination of
-------
76 MATHEM \ TICAL MODELS OK COASTAL CIRCULATION
the surface friction coefficient and eddy viscosity distribution by
comparison with the in situ measurements).
A solution of the gcncr.il circulation model is not given in this
book—only a comment on the eddy viscosity distribution over the
vertical is considered worth mentioning. As the stronger velocity
gradients appear near both the bed and the surface, the turbulence
intensity and vertical momentum dilTusion are related to both ub. and
u,. = s/(f,/p) The eddy viscosity distribution, deriving from higher
order turbulence closure, simulates in an optimal way the wind
generated profile (see Fig. 2.14). The maximum is at a distance, 1/3/?
from the surface and its value is proportional to
v'm.. tx Au,.h, O[A]= 0 1 (2 55)
Figure 2 14 contains morphologies of current profiles in domains
confined laterally by coastal boundaries. In such domains the current
direction and intensity vary considerably along the depth. At the
surface the current follows the wind direction (with declination to the
right in the Northern hemisphere). Some distance below the surface,
the direction is reversed due to return flows imposed by coastal
boundaries.
These comments on the general morphology of the wind generated
current profiles show that simple depth averaging of the general
model (analogous to that for the long-wave induced circulation) has
9
)¦(
u:
Strotif ltd medium
I
FT
u:
h iy «? ! 4 Distribution nf generated < urrenl in /-O fit 'cuJ hostn /fir
httmttqeneous anj stratified medium
MATHEM ATICAL MODELS OF COASTAL CIRCULATION
77
to be done very carefully. The simple 2-D horizontal model
used operationally in (he past for wind generated circulation has the
form:
DU dU dU
-------
7, MATHEMATICAL MODI.li OF COASTAL CIRCULATION
(1) Free surface condition
dlJ
(lz
pv
(2) Bed condition
= 0
(3) Depth mean velocity definition
U =
1
u d 2
The applicaiion of Equations (2 62) to (2 64) in (2.61) gives
u(z) = (in - iU)
4- u ( - -+¦ 1
(2.62]
(2.63)
(2.64)
(2.65)
where
t .h
pv
The problem is transposed to the determination of the eddy viscosity
v (at the surface). In order to be consistent with the parabolic velocity
distribution a constant eddy viscosity is assumed with mean value
Xh
(2.66)
Turbulence models and laboratory measuremenls indicate that
0[A] = 0.1. For X = 0 066, it is found that
a = = 16.6 l(-
/IV \J\fl
and the velocity ilist nhu I ion (2 65) in expressed in terms of known
magnitudes and the mean depth U(x,y). The substitution of (2.65)
and (2.66) in the bed shear expression \Jp — vOu/dz gives ("or x„//>'.
-=0 18 (~\u-0.5X-' (2.67)
P \\PJ (>
Finally, the use of (2.65) in the integral of the convecli ve term u dujdx
along the depth gives
0 tlu DU ,
u — dz= U — + 0.2(7 +
tlx
f)x
a\W
40 ) Ox
(2.68)
The 2DH model, improved with respect to the horizontal momentum
MATHEMATICAL MODELS OF COASTAL CIRCULATION
79
dispersion and the bed friction for wind generated circulation,
becomes on the basis of (2.67) and (2.6K)-
dU dU dU ( a\dU fn at\dU
——I- U ——H V— + I0.2 U+-^)— + ( 0.2 K H—-r J ——
dt dx dy ^ 40/ dx y 40/ Oy
(iv dv
-------
b MATHEMATICAL MODELS OF COASTAL CIRCULATION
PROGRAM 10: 2-D MODIFIED WIND GENERATF.D
CIRCULATION MODI I.
3REM 2-D MODIFIED WIND GENERATED CIRCULATION C
ODEL
1GDIMU ( 20 , 2 (J ) , UN (lu, liu) , V <2U. 2 (J) , VN < 20. io) . H (.*<.
,20) , ZCJ0.20") , IS (20) , It <20) , I fa <50) , JB(S0) ,NB(W)
20READDT, DX,CS,WX,WY,K,lM,JM.kB,Nn
30DATA...
40F0RJ-1T0JM-1iKEADISUJ.IEUMNtXTJ
30DATA...
60F0RJ--1 T0JM-1 I FOR 1 = 18 < J ) -1T0IE < J > + 1 1 READH < 1 , J
) 1 NEXT I 1NfcXTJ
70DATA. . .
80TX-CS»WX *3UR
90F0RK-1 TO KB 1READIB TOIE-
DT/2/DX*(U+H+H+V> /AiHM- +H < 1-1 , J >
>/2
150AD-<1.2»U + .4*SGN >/2/DXiBF-. 18IU +U ) / 41 Hfl- +.4»SGN(TY) »BUR -V >/2/DX*»-.3»TY/HMiVN(I,J)-V 1 NEXT I I NEXT J
lBOFORK-lTOKBi I-I&(K) 1J-JB«SQR <9.81/H < I ,J) )1VN »SUR <9.81/H —Z OBQR <9.B1/H —Z *BQR <9.Bl/H(I , J)) 1 VN -Oi VN < I , J + l ) -Z < I , J ) *SCJR <9. B1 /H < I , J ) ) 1 G
OT0310
290UNINT(N/50) THEN G0T012O
340KK-EKIEK-OlFORJ-2T0JM-21FORI-IS )~2+ H ( I ,J
)/81NEXT 11 NEXT J
350PRINTN,EK
360IFAb9 (EK-KK) /EK>.0001 OR N<.NM THtN G0T0120
370PR INT "UU" 1 FOR J -J M-2 TO 2 STEP- 1 1 FOR 1 -2T 0 1M-21
PRINT +V < I , J-t-l") ) / 2| 1 NEXT I 1 PR IN I 1 NEXT J
390PRI NT"Z Z"1FORJ-JM-2 TO 2 STEP-11 FOR I-2T0IM-21
PR INTZ < I,J) I 1 NEXT I I PR I NT I NEXTJ
400END
Description of main variables:
DX, DT = space and time discretisation steps
CS = wind friction coefficient K
WX.WY = wind velocity components along Ox, Or
F = Conolis coefficient
IM.JM = maximum values of I, J grid indices
KB = number of boundary (coastal + open sea) meshes to be
specially treated
NM - maximum number of time steps
1S(J), IE(J) = leftmost and rightmost values of mesh index 1 for
various ordinates j
H(I,J) = water depths at mesh centers
IB, JB, NB = coordinate indices for boundary meshes and index
denoting the type of boundary For NB, the
numbering as shown in Fig. 2.4 is used
The application is a comparative presentation of the numerical
solutions of the two 2DH models of wind generated circulation, the
modified one and the classical one without correction of the u(du/dx),
rb/p terms. The flow domain morphology and its discretisation by a
-------
MATHEMATICAL MODELS ul COASTAL CIRCULATION
square grid is given in Fig 2.15. Program data: DT = 30s,
DX = lOOQm, CS = 0 000 005 (an exaggerated value as 0[k] =
1-3x10"). WX= lOm/s, WY= lOm/s, IM = 8, JM = 8,
KB = 9. NM = 2000
IS 2 2 2 2 2 2 2
IE 6666666
IB 222223456
JB 2 J 4 5 6 2 2 2 2
NB 4 2 2 2 2 3 J 3 3
Figure 2.16 illustrates the development of the kinetic energy up to
the establishment of steady flow conditions, the steady flow U, V
fields and the surface profile along the diagonal oriented parallel to
Ihe wind. The difference between ihc iwo models in iho kinetic energy
developmenl and the storm surge is obvious. Regarding the latter, it
has to be said that the corrected model in the case of wind blowing
normal to a coast (with small depth mean velocities) results in higher
free surface gradients balancing both the free surface shear and the
bed shear (in the same direction) and consequently to higher storm
surges along the coast
2.4 WAVE GENERATED CIRCULATION
Wave generated circulation describes the mean motion that is
generated in coastal areas where wind-generated short waves refract.
I HEMATICAL MODELS OF COASTAL C1RCULA i
o
83
Hodifitd modtl
0 01 02
Clotticol model
/
... — ^
V
/
" - V.
\
/
' *
\
I
* /•
/
A
m/»
o o o o o o
m o i/> o is* o
^ r n n n
o-o section
Fig 2/6 Ciri ulution patterns, energy tixflufion and surfuce profile for (he classical arid
modified wind generated circulation model
shoal, diffract or break. This circulation is due to the spatial vanation
in the momentum contained by the waves. As was mentioned in
Chapter I, the radiation stresses describe the depth mean wave
momentum inicurulcil over a wave period T It wus shown in Section
1.7 (liquations (1.76)— (1.78)) that the radiation stress components
ax,< 0„< ay, form a symmetric second order tensor and their
action is completely analogous to the stress tensor As they describe
the depth mean components of momentum along the sides of an
infinitesimal column of water (base dx.dy, height h), their inclusion
in the mathematical model for the 2DH flows is straightforward.
Their spatial gradients appear on the right hand side of the
equilibrium equations The wave generated circulation model
containing the radiation stresses as flow forcing factor has the form:
d U
dt
= ~9
T-±-U
da.
dx ph ph \ dx
da-,
dy
(2.73)
-------
MATHEMATICAL MODELS OF COASTAL CIRCULATION
¦i",- * (2.74)
fill \ <"** ,JB(BO) ,NB(B0)
20READDT , IM,JM,NM,CF,WX,WY,C8,TH,KH"
22DATA...
30F0RI-1T0IM-J I READDX(I) iNEXT I
40DATA...
30F0RJ-1T0JM-1iREADDY(J) i NEXTJ
60DAT A. . .
70F0RI-1T0IM-1iFORJ-1TOJM-1iREADH(I,J),XX ( I ,J ) ,
XYlSY«CS*WY»SUR(WX'"2+WY's
2)
90F0RK-1 TOKBi READ I B (K) , J & (K) , NE» (K ) iNEXTK
100DATA....
110F0RI-1TOIM-1 lH([tO)»H(I,l)lXX(I,0)-XX(I,l)iYY
-------
86 ...rtTHEMATlCAL MODELS OF COASTAL CIRCULATION
(I,0)-YY(I,l)lXY-XYlDY <0>-DY <1) I NEXT I
120F0RJ-1T0JM-1 |H(0,J)-H(1,J>|XX(0,J>-XX<1,J>|XY
(0,J)-XY(i,J)IYY(0,J)-YY(1,J>lDX(0)-DX <1) IHiYY(IM,J>-YYUM-l,J>i
XYiDX<>4 THEN GOT0150
140I-IB(K)|J-JB|H-1
130NEXTKIN-OiT-0
160N-N+1IT-T+DT
170F0RJ—1TOJM—2IFORI-1 TOIM-1i Z ( I ,Jt-Z +H-U(I,J)*+H
>>/DX+*+H>-V» +H(I,J-1> ) )/DY(J) )/2 lNEXT IiNEXTJ
180F0RJ-1TOJM —2 I FORI-2TOIM-1 IHM-(H(I,J)+H(I-1,J)
)/2lVV-(V +V(I,J+1>+V(I-1,J)+V(I-1,J+1>)/4|XM»
>/2iYM"< DY(J>+ +DY(J + l) ) ».5>
190UN-U #TH+(1-TH)/4»(U(I+1,J>+U(I-1,J>
+U(I,J+l>+U )-DT* #(U>
/XM/2+VV»(U < I , J + l ) -U( I , J-l > ) /YM+9. 81 » (2-Z(I-1
,J))/XM+<(XX(I,J)-XX(I-1,J>> /XM+ < XY(I,Jtl)»XY(I-l,
J+1)-XY -UN (I , J ) -DT«CF*U (I , J ) #SQR(U +U(I + 1,J >
+U> /4iHM- +H /2t Xrt-
DX(I)+ )/2
220VN (I,J >-V »TH+(1-TH)/4*(V(I,J+1)+V(I,J-1)
~V <1 + 1,J)+V(1-1,J > >-DT* -V>
/YM/2+UUI(V(I+1,J)-V(I-1,J>>/XM+9.81» (Z(I,J)-Z(I,J
-1> >/YM+(
230VN < I , J >-VN < I , J > -DT»CF#V IVN(IM,J)-VN 1 NEXTJ
30OF0RI-1TOIM-11 UN(1,0)-UN <1, 1) 1 VN(1, 1> —Z(I , 1)»
8QR(9.B/H(1,1))1 NEXT I
310F0RJ-1T0JMIFORI-1TOIMiU(I,J)-UN 1V(I,J)-V
N(I,J)»NEXTIiNEXTJ
320IF N/20< >INT < N/20) THEN G0T0160
330EKK-EK1EK-01FORJ- V TOJ M-21 FORI-lTOIM-11EK-EK+(
(U(I,J)+U(1 + 1,J >)~2 +(V(I,J)+V(I,J + l)>~2>/0/DX(I)»D
Y(J)*H(I,J> 1 NEXT11 NEXT J
LMATICAL MODELS OF COASTAL CIRCULATION K7
340P N,EK
3301 NM OR AB8(EKK-EK)/EK>.OOl THEN GOTO 160
360F. -JM-2 TO 2 STEP-11 FORI -1 TO in-1 1 PR I NT ( U ( I ,
J)+U(I+1,J))/2| 1 NEXT I 1 PRINT 1N£XTJ 1 PRINT
370F0RJ-JM-2 TO 2 STEP-1 J FORI-1 TO IM-11 PR I NT(V< I .
J>+V(I,J + l) >/2) INEXT I 1 PRINT 1 NEXTJ 1 PRINT
380F0RJ-JM-2 TO 2 STEP-11 FORI-1 TO IM-11 PR I NTZ(I,J
>| I NEXT I 1 PR INT 1NEXTJ1 PRINT
400END
In the description of variables the only new ones, compared with the
previous models, are the data arrays for the radiation stresses
0,,/p = XX, aAylf> = XY, ofy/p = YY and the parameter 0 111 the
recommended diffusive Lax type finite difference for the time
den vati ve.
^ = - y- o+ j(i -0/4}
X (U,\ „ + ur-u+ u?,, , + ty," _ , )]/A( (2 76)
This type of finite difference approximation entails horizontal
momentum diffusion with a diffusion coefficient equal to
{(1 — 0)AxJ}/Ar/4. Care should be taken in the determination of 0
that the introduced diffusion is realistic.
The application is concerned with the wave generated circulation
in a coastal area of simple geometry (i.e. straight coastline, constant
bed slope and parallel bed contours). An L-shapcd mole is
constructed to face the prevailing waves. The (low domain and its
discretisation are shown in Fig 2.18. The waves approaching the
coast have H0 — 2 m, T = 7 s and direction SW.
The main program data are: DT = 5 s, IM = 20, VM = 16,
MN = 300, CF = 001, TH = 0 95, KB = 26
DX(I). 40, 40, 40. 40. 20, 10. 10. 10. 10. 10. 20. 20. 20. 20. 20,
40, 40, 40. 40, 40
DY (J): 40, 40, 20, 20, 20, 10, 10, 10, 10, 10, 10, 10. 10, 10, 10
The water depth refers lo the mesh centers. In the modelled port
basin the depth is considered constant, equal to 6 m. The radiation
stresses are computed via the refraction and diffraction of waves in
the area. The B's (orthogonal spacing) giving kr and the G's (wave
angles) are computed in the flow domain. In the basin interior and
0 are computed by the Wiegel tables (diffraction around an infinite
breakwater). The above refraction and diffraction computations give
the wave heights and 0 at the mesh centers. The oxtlp, a,r/p. o,T/p
values are computed by means of a sub-routine for radiation stress
-------
HEMAT1CAL MODELS OF COASTAL CIRCULATION
Fig 2 18 Flow domain, its discretisation and typical refracted orlhoyurujl
PROGRAM 12: RADIATION STRESS COMPUTATION FROM
WAVE ANGLE AND ORTHOGONALS DISTANCE
5REM KADI AT ION STRESSES COMPUTATION FROM WAVE
ANGLE AND ORTHOGONALS DISTANCE
1ODIMH <20,20) ,HH(20,20), SXX(20,20), SXY<20,20),S
YY (20,20) ,TH(20,20) ,DX(20) , DY(20) , &(20,20) ,LL(50)
20READIM,JM,HO,T,DM,BO
30DATA...
40F0RJ-1T0JM-1IF0RI-1T0IM-1iREADH(I,J) iNEXT IiNE
X T J
30DATA...
60F0RJ-1T0JM-1IF0RI-1T0IM-1iREADTH(I,J) INE XT IiN
EXTJ
70DATA. . ..
0OFORJ-1T 0JM—1 iFOR I-1 TO IM-1 iREADB(I,J) iNEKTI IN
EXTJ
90DATA...
lOOLO-9.81»T~2/2/PI
103FORK-1TOUMiL-LOi TM-L
1 10MN-(L+TM) /2iTM-LiA-2*PI*K/MNiL-LU* (tXH(H)-tXK
(-A) ) / (EXP (A) -t-EXP (-A) )
120IF(AbS(L-TM)>.1>THEN bOTOllO
130LL(K)-LlNEXTK
1 AOFORJ-lTOJMi FQRI-1T0IM i I F ( H ( 1 , J )-O ) THtN bOTOl
'3
i30FQRK«lT0DM I 1 F (H ( I , J ) < K) 1 HEN b0T0170
160NEXTK
170L-LL(K-l)+(LL(K)-LL(K-1))#(K-H/I NH-(EXP(A)-tXP(-A) > /2lN-.<1~A/K«nh) ,
KSI-8QH (L0< /N/L> I HR-BUR (bO/b(I,J) ) i HH ( 1 , J ) -HO « KB »K
H
180 IF(HH(I,J) >. 7*H(1,J) )THEN HH(I,J)«.7»H(1.J)
1903XX ( I , J > -9. 8»HH < L , J ) ~2/ 16» <2*N- 1 t-N* (COS (RAD ( T
H )^2) lS X Y -9.81*HH~2/16*N*S1N(2»R«
D(TH(I,J > > > I SYY(l,J>-9.bl»HH
193NEXTIiNEXT J
200F0RJ-1TOJM-1 IF0RI-1T0IM-1 I PRINTH(I ,J > , HH( 1 , J >
,BXX,SXY(I,J>,SYY( I , J) I NEXT I I NEXTJ
210END
Description of variables:
IM, JM = maximum values of indices along Ox, Ov
HO = wave height in the open sea
T = wave period
DM = maximum water depth in the flow area in m
BO = wave orthogonals distance in the open sea
H(l, J) = water depth values in mesh center
TH(I,J) = corresponding wave approach angle measured counter-
clockwise from the x' axis in degrees
B(I, J) = corresponding wave orthogonals distance.
In this routine first the wave characteristics L, //,n are computed
at the mesh centers and then the radiation stress components Near
the coast, the wave breaking is checked and the wave height is
estimated with a breaking factor y = 0.7 (11= yh). The radiation
stress components are introduced as data to the circulation program
The current is computed up to the stabilisation of the flow The
steady current pattern is illustrated in Fig 2 19 Some easily
discernible eddies are shown. The strong longshore current is present
in the surf zone-before the mole and is re-established some distance
after it
The wave generated current field diminishes rapidly away from the
coast. This type of circulation, us stated a priori, is important in
limited areas where the waicr depth is much smaller than the
wavelength and intensive wave deformation is taking place
Nevertheless, it is an important feature in the design and operation of
coastal structures.
2.5 DENSITY CURRENTS. STRATIFIED FLOWS
2.5.1 General notions definitions
In all the. previous circulation models the water was assumed
-------
90
MATHEMATICAL MODELS OF COASTAL CIR
i ION
Fig. 2 IV Wave-induced circulation around th* mole
homogeneous (of constant density) and the gravity force distributed
uniformly throughout the mass of the fluid. The resulting hydrostatic
pressure distribution in the case of quasi-horizontal flows was
assumed linear and the horizontal pressure gradient was expressed by
means of the free surface elevation gradient
1 dp 0C
-¦^=-9- (2.77)
p ox ox
In the case of nonhomogeneous fluid, however, the density varies
in three-dimensional space p(x, y, z, i). The variation is due to:
(1) salinity variation, as in the case where fresh land-based water is
mixed with sea water, and
(2) horizontal or vertical temperature differences
The resulting density field (p = p(S,T)) implies a hydrostatic
pressure distribution of a more complicated form-
P(z) =
pgdz + p0 (2.78)
where p0 is the atmospheric pressure. The general form of the
horizontal pressure gradient becomes
1 dp g dp g dQ
~ dz — • — p
* f
P J.
P dx p J, dx p dx
! (2.79)
p OX
In the case where depth averaging provides a realistic
approximation (intensive vertical mixing due to turbulence) and
MATHEMATICAL MODELS OF COASTAL CIRCULATION 91
p = p(x, y. t) then (2.79) becomes
1 n " i)>' tr V 1 <1 Km
• - - ¦ (C - Z) ¦ , - I) . (2.K0)
p dx p dx p vx (I*
When p = constant we return to the form of Equation (2 77)
In a nonhomogeneous fluid either the nonhomogeneiiy is itself the
flow generating factor (density currents) or it influences the
hydrodynamic conditions in the flow domain Two limiting cases can
be distinguished in nonhomogeneous flow domains
(1) Well-mixed domains in which water is homogeneous over the
depth. Horizontal density gradients may exist resulting in
horizontal flow, a form of density currents
(2) Fully stratified domains. Two or more distinct layers are
formed along the vertical, separated by a thin interface
(pycnocline). The layers communicate only through (heir interface
where mixing phenomena are considered weak In a iwo-layers
environment when the more dense layer is above the less dense, the
case is hydrodynamically unstable and vertical convection may
take place resulting in mixing of the two layers
When the less dense layer is on top, the situation is
hydrodynamically stable and a relatively large energy supply is
required to achieve the mixing of the two layers (storm waves for
example).
When the surface and the interface are horizontal the two layers
may be stagnant. Horizontal gradients in the elevation of the tw'o
surfaces (free and interface) result in fluid motion known as
baroclinic motion.
A mathematical model of coastal circulation in the general form
consisting of Equations (2 5) and (2 6) can describe the circulation of
a nonhomogeneous fluid The differences concern the horizontal
pressure gradients and are expressed by Equation (2 79) This means
that the density magnitude muM be known over the whole extent of
the flow domain. The density may be considered variable in space
and constant in time during the development of the circulation
phenomenon or may be considered as an evolving magnitude I n the
latercase, as the density is basically a function of temperature T and
salinity S, two equations formulated on the principle of heal and salt
conservation are required to complete the model, their form is the
same. For c = T or c = S. the conservation equation is
dc
-------
92
MA . ..«:MAT1CAL MODELS OF COASTAL CIRCULATION
Equation (2.81) is the advective turbulent diffusion equation for a
conservative substance with different horizontal and verticul
diffusion cocfficicnls l)„. I)r The Mute equation relating /» to S ami '/
can be approximated by a linear one
p = p0( 1 +ac) (2 82)
where a in the case of the p(T) function is a volume expansion
coefficient A final difference between the homogeneous and
nonhomogeneous fluid circulation model concerns the eddy viscosity
magnitude distribution. This magnitude describes the rate of
diffusion of momentum over the depth. In the case of a steep density
gradient along the interface the momentum cannot be diffused
through the pycnocline. The parametrisation of that physical
process, i.e. the tapering of momentum in one layer is done through
the eddy viscosity distribution. A nondimensional parameter called
the Richardson number is the parameter involved, defined as the
ratio
The large density gradients on the pycnocline results m high R,. The
quantification of the influence of on the eddy viscosity is done
usually by means of the relation
+«*,)-* (2 84)
where is the eddy viscosity for the homogeneous fluid and a and
b coefficients fixed by in situ measurements, 0[a] = 10, 0[b] = 0.5
The density distribution, eddy viscosity and velocity in the case of
steady uniform barotropic flow in a stratified fluid is shown
schematically in Fig. 2.20. it is obvious that the two flow regions (the
Fig. 2 20 Eddy IM5lOSlly and vtloclly dlslrlhullnn fur burolropic lloo<1 + "S)
C 87)
-------
94
HEMAT1CAL MODELS OF COASTAL CIRCUL
)N
The boundary conditions completing (2.85)—(2.87) are u|,_ _k — 0,
du/dz|,.o»0 wilh respect to velocity and dS/fix — 0 on no-How
coiMtul bounilurica, N-given conntiint on nn open .tea or river
boundary with respect to salinity. The parameters and R (vertical
eddy viscosity and horizontal mass dispersivity) are also unknown
magnitudes. A sensitivity analysis shows that their values influence
the solutions substantially. An order of magnitude analysis for them
indicate that
O0J = 0[U] 0[h] 0.1 (2.89)
0[K] = 0[U]0[S]0[Ax/As] (2.90)
where As/Ax a measure of the horizontal salinity gradient
A substantial simplification is introduced by integration of
Equation (2.85) over the depth and its expression in terms of the
depth mean velocity
8U dU gh d\n p kU
t (29"
The bed friction term can have this linear form or a classical
quadratic one
The model consisting of Equations (2.91), (2.86), (2.88) and the
state Equation (2.87) is capable of describing the formation of density
induced currents and the density field and their continuous
interaction in the case of horizontal density variations only. These
density currents can be induced by the inflow of fresh water into
initially stagnant salt water or by the joining of a fresh water body
with the sea.
The problem of the difference in the order of magnitude of the time
scales in the formation of the hydrodynamic and density magnitudes
can be resolved by the use of implicit finite differences for (2 91)
permitting the increase in a common At step used for both (2.91) and
(2.88).
The numerical solution of the depth averaged horizontally
stratified fluid model presented here is based on the explicit finite
difference scheme using the staggered grid illustrated in Fig. 2.21. The
velocity values are computed at the cross-sections (nodes) while the
water depth, surface elevation and salinity-density values refer to the.
reaches between successive nodes. The finite difference
approximation of the model's equations are:
(1) Continuity equation:
C' a,~C' +W«i "(Ai + Ai-.W) (2 92)
at 2Ax
MATHEMATlt MODELS OF COASTAL CIRCULATION
Fr#th «Oltr inflow
9^
Soil wot»r l| „
~ s,
P|
U|.l
1
h
1
/ > >
> > > >
^4* —
Fig 2 J/ /-D density current due to horizontal densK \ qraJicnt\ Dttrruun mttr\
and diu retization
(2) Equilibrium equation:
V" - U" U" g y('i, + >>,_,)
L = ~ (U"'1 - U>~1) - T- (C" - ' > 4A"v~ '
At 2Ax Ax 4A.\
x (In p" — In p"_ |) — 2kU"/{h, + ht _,) (2 93)
(3) Salt conservation:
s;*' - s; i
Af
g Ax
l(s;tl+snu,\t -(s;+s:_t)ur]
+ r (S,\ , - 2S," + S,".,) (2 94)
Ax
(2 95)
(4) State equation:
pr1 = PoO+*sr')
The procedure is organised in a BASIC program (Program 13)
referring to the case of an enclosed domain (upstream and
downstream no-flow conditions dS/dx — 0, U = 0) where an initial
density distribution induces circulation that, after the completion of
mixing, leads asymptotically to a new equilibrium afier the
homogenisation of the fluid and the frictional decay of the initial
motion. Different boundary conditions can be used with a slight
modification to the program to simulate other typ>es of density
induced flow.
PROGRAM 13: 1-D CURRENT WITH HORIZONTAL DENSITY
GRADIENT
5REM 1-D DENSITY CURRENT HORIZONTAL ktNSITY bK
ADIENT
10DIC1U(21),UN(21),Z(21),S<21),SN(21).R(ri),H(2l
-------
96 N. HEMATICAL MODELS OF COASTAL CIRCULATION
20READ DT,DX, 1M,NMPK,E,HO,A
30DATA...
40F0RI-0T0l(1i RtftDS < I) i H < I >-100# < 1 ~ABB ( 1) ) i N£XH
42DATA...
"43F0RI-0T0IMi READH(I) i NEXT I
47DATA...
SON-OiT-0
60N-N+1 i T-T+'DT
70F0RI-1T0IM-1iZ-DT/2/DX»<-U»-DT*9.61/DX# (Z(I)-Z(I-l) >-DT#9.Bl* >-LOG > ) /DX-DT»K»U »A&S )»2/(H(I)+H(I-1))iNEXTI
90F0RI-1T0IM-1j SN > #U(I) )+DT/DX~2*E*(S(I + 1)-2»b
(I> *8 CI-1) > iNEXTIiBN(O)-8N(1) iBN(IM)-BN
lOOFORI-OTOIMiU-SN <1>|RII)-I00»tl+
AfS(I)) iNEXTI
1 10IFN/2CK >INT THEN GOTO 60
120PRINTN
130F0RI»1 TOIMI PR I NT Z(I) | INtXTIiPRINT
140F0RI-1T0IMIPRINTU >iNEXT IiPRINT
130F0RI-1T0IMi PRINTS 0 (Ik ( v
while for the lower layer it can be easily proved that
Po = + h - C0) + ~ h + C0) (2 97)
giving
'
-------
98
HEMATICAL MODELS OF COASTAL CIRCULATION
- 2 0000m •
x
I—10
¦y>
7T
~rr
I
1000m
T
0%
1000
36% S
1020N9/mJ
9
-1 -
20
2 i9
_L
TX
rtn
TXf
"V'
1000
V>
2000
3000
: V
4000
5000
(mm}
-
T«666»
i r~
( "
1000
2000
V 1 \ /
3000
\'/
1000
\/ 1
5000
T I (itcondi)
Ftg 2 22{a) t-D density current flow domain, its discretisation and evolution of i elocit i
and surface elevation u( (wo /ocufiorti
5000 10000
Fia 2 ?2th\ h i nlftloif ,>,-
t— 1 (tfcondi)
MATHEMATICAL MODELS OF COASTAL CIRCULATION
Fig 2 23 Stratified flow model Baste notations
development of interfacial stresses Their magnitude can be simply
approximated by a quadratic form containing the difference of the
mean velocities of the two layers. The form of the 2DH, 2-layer,
model is
(1) Continuity equations in the two layers:
^2+~(Uoho) + ^(Voho) = 0 (2 100)
or ox oy
a(C — Co) d &
, 0 + — (UI i) + — (Vh) = 0 (2 101)
at ox dy
(2) Equilibrium of forces equations along x,y in the two layers
dU dU dU t - r
^r + uT~+ yir= + + (^ '02)
ot ox oy ox Xp0h
dV <1V DV Or t, - r,
+ U — +V— = -y-±+-*—i!-fU (2 103)
ot ox Oy Dy X(>0 h
+ U du° + V dV° in ^ n j, rv
s, -19S -1,9S + ^ + /'°
(2 104)
dV° 4. II d]/° j. 1/ 3V0 ) ^ ,, M ^Co,T,r-T»,
+ u° ar + K° ^ e, ~ <' ~ Tr + ~ fu°
(2 105)
-------
100 i H EM AT1CAL MODELS OF COASTAL CIRCULATION
where
P 0
+ W/)
P 0
- = (U-U0)kJ[(U-U0)> + (V- K0)2]
P o
- = {v- v0)kls/[(u - u^)1 + (v - tg2]
P o
~ = kbU0J{U>+ V*)
P 0
— = kb V0S/(UJ + VJ)
P 0
(2.106)
(2.107)
(2.108)
The coefficients (wind friction), kt (interface fnction), kb (bed
fnction) have values depending on the wind, flow, fluid and bed
morphology. An approximalion to their orders of magnitude is,
0[*»] = 10-6, 0[kt] = 10"\ 0[fck] = 10~2.
Tlie above 2-layer model can describe the circulation in a stratified
medium due
(1) to the wind influence on the free surface
(2) to incident long waves through the open sea boundary or
induced from barometric pressure fluctuations
(3) to primary or secondary interface gradients (baroclinic flows,
internal waves). It is completed by appropriate boundary
conditions completely analogous to (hose for the homogeneous
medium. At the open sea boundary (he free radiation condition.-,
for the two layers take the form:
Lower layer: U.h0=-C0
ghh0{l - A)
(h 4- h0)
Upper layer:
UJ' = + ho)]
(2 109)
(2.1 10)
The numerical solution of the 2-layer model follows the same
methodology as the 2DH model for a homogeneous fluid, i e. an
explicit finite difference scheme on a staggered grid. Program 14 gives
the structure for the one-dimensional case.
MATHEMA L MODELS OF COASTAL CIRCULATION 101
PROGRAM 14: 1-L. STRATIFIED FLOW MODEL. TWO LAYER
3REM 1-D UTFtAT IF IED FLOW MODEL 2LAYEAB
1ODIMU < 20),UN(20 >,UO(20),UON(20) ,H(20),Z(20) ,HO
(20> , ZO (20) , DX (20)
20READ DT,CF,CI,IM,EL,NM,PER,EDH , W , CS
23DATA...
30F0RI-0T0IMIREADH(I) ,HO(I) ,DX(I)iNEXT I
40DATA...
30F0RI — 1 TO I MiU(I)-OiUN(I)-OiUO(I >-OiUON(I)-uiNE
XT I
6OTSX0=CS*W»ABS(W)IN-OiT-O
70N-N+1IT-T*DT
B0IFN -ZOU )-DT/DX ( I > / 2»
( (HO ( 1*1 ) *H0 (1) ) *UU(1 + 1)-(HO(I> +HU( 1-1> )*U0 I I > ) I Z (
1)-Z(I)*ZO(I)-PT-DT/DX(1)/2«((H(1)*H(1+1))»U(1*1)-
(H ( I) *H(I — 1 ) ) SU < 1 > ) INfcXTI
1 OOFOR I-2T0I M- 1 I HM- (H(I)*H(I - 1 ) ) / 2l Hf10«>(HU ( 1 ) *HU
(1-1) >/2lTbX-UO(I)tA&S(UU(I) )*CKiDXM-(DX(1)*DX (I - 1
)>/2lTlX-UI»(U(I)-UU(1) > (Utl)-UU t 1 > )
1 10UN(I)-U *U(I) )^2-(U(1)*U(1-1) )"2)/B/DXM-9.faH ( Z < I
)-Z(1-1) ) /DXM-(T1X —T8X > /EL/HM)
120U0N ( I ) -UO (1 ) *EDH + (UO(IM) ' UO (I 1 ) ) # ( 1 •- EDM ) /'2 •
DT»(-((UO(1+1)+U0(I))~2-(UO(I)*UO(I-1))~2)/B/DXM-9
•Bit(ZO(I)-ZO(I-l))/DXM#(1-EL)-9.Bl»ELt(Z(I)-Z(I-l
>>/DXM-(TBX-TIX)/HMO) iNEXTI
130UN <1)=-Z(1)tSQR(9.811(H(1>*H0 ( 1) >)/H(1)iUON(1
>—ZQU) »8QR(9.B1»H<1> »H0( 1) / (H<1>+HQ ( 1) > » ( 1-El_) ) /
HO (1 )
140F0RI — 1 TOIMi U ( I ) -UN ( 1 ) i UO ( I ) -UON ( I ) i NEXT I
130IFN/30<>INT(N/30)THEN G0T070
I6OEK-O1 EKO-OiFORI-lTOIM-l iEK-EK->- < ~2#HO ( I > i NE X T
I
170PRI NTT,EK,EKO, Z (6) , ZO(6) ,U(4) ,UO(4 > 1 IF(N< NM)
THEN G0T070
180PRINT"Z"l PRINT 1 FORI"lTOIM iPRINTZ(I)i 1NEXTI1P
RINT I PR1NT"ZQ"|F0RI-1T0IM| PR I NT Z O
-------
102 ..iATHEMATICAL MODELS OK COASTAL CIRCULATION
CS surface wind friction coefficient
IM — number of cross-sections for the discreiisuiion of the flow
field
NM = number of time steps in the numerical solution
EL *= density ratio ^
EDH = weight factor in the Lax type time difference
PER = time for the sinusoidal increase of wind intensity from a
cold start to steady blow
W = wind velocity
H,H0 = initial depths in no-flow conditions for the two layers
(horizontal interface and surface).
The program refers to a linear basin (the left and right boundaries
J
h ¦ 10m
h 0 a 10m
-H h*-Axsl000m f
h 6000m H
W.10m/t
— »
1
Ax Bx
Fig 2 24 Flow domain and evolution of Kinetic energy for rm losed and npen domains in
I'D stratified /low model
MATHtMATICAL MODELS OF COASTAL CIRCULATION
10)
Fig 2 25 Evolution of free surface and vtloctiy at 2 /JW
may be open or closed). The open sea boundary condition can be
incorporated by introduction of a statement of the form
130 UN( 1) = -Z(l) ~ SQR(9 8 • (H( 1) + H0( l)))/H( I)
U0N(1) = -Z0( I) ~ SQR(9 8 • H( I) • H0( 1 )/(H( 1) -» 110(1))
.(1 - EL))/M0( 1)
The application refers to the description of the transient flow in a
flow domain extending over 6 km with two layers of equal depth.
h = h0 = 10 m, under the influence of a wind of 10 m/s Two cases are
examined, a laterally closed channel and a channel with an open sea
boundary at left The program data are' DT = 20s. CF=0 05.
CI =0 005, IM = 7, EL = 0 98, (fresh water above sea water),
NM = 3000, PR = 800s, EDH =0 98, W = 10m/s, CS = 0 000,005,
H(1) = 10 m, H0(1) = 10 m (I = 17), DX(1)= 1000 m
Figure 2 24 shows the evolution of the kinetic energies of the two
layers forclosed and open flow fields Figure 2 25 shows the transient
evolution up to steady conditions of the C.Co on '^e ri(s^' closed
boundary and the u,u0 in the middle of the flow field
-------
Appendix E. Program Code for Akutan Harbor Model
-------
PROGRAM WINDDRVN
C
C MODIFIED FOR AKUTAN BATHYMETRY FILE
C
C PROGRAM 2 1/2-D WIND DRIVEN CIRCULATION MODEL 1
C
C KOUTITAS 1988 PG 61-62
C
real sqhl(40,60)
real*4 u(40,60),un(40,60),v(40,60),vn(40(60),z(40,60)
real*4 px(40,60),py(40,60),pp(40,60)
real*4 af(7)
integer jf(7) , iss(60),iee(60)
COMMON/BATH/ H(40,60) , IS(60) ,IE(60)
COMMON/BDRY/ IB(250),JB(250),NB(250),QQ(250)
COMMON/CUR/ U,UN,V,VN,Z
COMMON/HH/ HIP(4 0 , 60) ,HIM(40,60) ,HJP(40,60) ,HJM(40, 60)
CHARACTER IFILE*20,OFILE*20,B1FILE*20,B2FILE*20,tsfile*20
REAL KK
C
G=9.81
g2=sqrt(g)
PI=3.14159
Wl=2.*PI/(24.8*3600.)
W2=2.*W1
jf(1)=20
jf(2)=30
jf(3)=40
jf(4)=45
jf(5)=52
j f(6)=58
do i=l,40
do j=l,60
px(i,j)=0
PY(i#j)=0
pp(i,j)=0
h(i,j)=1.0
u(i,j)=0
v(i/j)=0
un(i,j)=0
vn(i,j)=0
z(i,j)=0
hip(i,j)=0
him(i,j)=0
hjp(i,j)=0
hjm(i,j)=0
enddo
enddo
C depths are in meters, units are inks
C READ INPUT DATA
C
WRITE(*,*) 'INPUT DATA FILE NAME ?'
READ(*,100) IFILE
100 FORMAT(A)
OPEN(10,FILE=IFILE,STATUS='OLD')
READ(10,*)
READ(10,100) B1FILE
READ(10,100) B2FILE
READ(10,*) ICHK,DT,DX,F,NM
CF=.01
-------
READ(10,*) CS,WX,WY,tsave,nsave
READ(10,100) OFILE
read(10,100) tsfile
CLOSE(10)
C
IF(ICHK .NE. 99) WRITE(*,*) 'FATAL ERROR ... IMPROPER DATA FILE'
IF(ICHK .NE. 99) GOTO 99
C
CALL RBDF(B1FILE,B2FILE,AVGH,I1M,I2X,JM,KB)
WRITE(*,*) 'DT,KB',DT,KB
C
TXX=CS*WX*SQRT(WX**2+WY**2)
TYY=CS*WY*SQRT(WX**2+WY**2)
TS=SQRT(TXX**2+TYY**2)
do i=l,4 0
do j=l,60
c if(h(i,j).le.0.0) h(i,j)=1.0
sqhl(i,j)=sqrt(h(i,j))
enddo
enddo
C
TWODX=2*DX
TWODXI=l./TWODX
C
write(*,*) 'dx', dx
DO J=2,JM
do i=is(j),ie(j)
HIP(I,J)=0.5*(H(I,J)+H(1+1,J))
HIM(I,J)=0.5*(H(I,J)+H(1-1,J))
HJP(I,J)=0.5*(H(I,J)+H(I,J+l))
HJM(I,J)=0.5*(H (I,J)+H(I,J-l))
enddo
enddo
OPEN(15,FILE=OFILE,STATUS='NEW')
WRITE(15,240) OFILE
24 0 FORMAT(' FILE: ',A,/)
write(*,*) 'opened ',ofile
WRITE(15,241) IFILE,B1FILE,B2FILE
241 FORMAT(IX,A,5X,A,5X,A,/)
WRITE(15,242) AX,AY,JM
242 FORMAT(2E15.5,I5)
C
C MAIN COMPUTATION SCHEME
C
write(*,*) 'entering main'
TINIT=24.8*3600.
ISAVE=0
C TNEXT=TINIT
TNEXT=TSAVE
do i=l,60
iss(i)=is(i)
iee(i)=ie(i)
enddo
iss(11)=13
iss(12)=12
iss(13)=8
iss(15)=7
iss(16)=6
iss(29)=10
iss(53)=is(53)+1
-------
iee(33)=ie(33)-1
iee(37)=ie(37)-1
iee(43)=ie(43)-1
iee(4 6)=ie(4 6)-1
N=0
T=0.
EK=0.
tx=txx
ty=tyy
anu=0.66*sqrt(ts)
stx=tx/anu
sty=ty/anu
1 N=N+1
T=T+DT
do 2000 j=2,jm
do 2000 i=is(j),ie(j)
2000 z(i,j)=z(i,j)-(dt/dx)*(u(i+l,j)*hip(i,j)-u(i,j)*
c him(i,j)+v(i,j+l)*hjp(i,j)-v(i,j)*hjm(i,j))
DO 2001 J=2,JM
DO 2001 I=IS(J)+1,IE(J)
W=(V(I, J)+V(I-1, J)+V(I, J+1)+V(I-1, J+l) )/4 .
HM=Him(I,J)
AD=(1.2 *U(I,J)+STX/40.0)*(U(I+l,J)-U(1-1,J))/TWODX
AD=AD+(1.2*W+Sty/4 0. 0) * (U(I, J+l) -U(I, J-l) )/TWODX
BF=.18*U(I,J)/HM*SQRT(TS)5*TX/HM
UN(I,J)=U(I/J)-DT* (AD+g* (z(i,j)-z(i-l,j) )/dx-F*W
* +BF-TX/HM)
2001 CONTINUE
DO 2002 J=3,JM
DO 2002 I=iss(j),IEe(J)
UU=0.25*(U(I,J)+U(I+l,J)+U(I,J-l)+U(I+l,J-l))
HM=hjm(I,J)
AD=(1.2*V(I, J)+STY/40.0)*(V(I,J+l)-V(I,J-l))/TWODX
AD=AD+(1.2*UU+STX/40.0)*(V(I+l,J)-V(I-1,J))/TWODX
BF=.18 *V(I,J)/HM*SQRT(TS)-.5 *TY/HM
VN(I,J)=V(I,J)-DT*(AD+g*(z(i,j)-z(i,j-l))/dx
* +F*UU+BF -TY/HM)
2002 CONTINUE
DO 2003 K=1,KB
I=IB(K)
J=JB(K)
GOTO(11,12,13,14,15,16,17,18,19,20,21) NB(K)
11 UN(I,J)=0.
vn(i-1,j)=vn(i,j)
GOTO 2003
12 VN(I,J)=0.
un(i,j)=un(i,j+l)
c vn(i,j-l)=0
un(i,j-1)=un(i,j)
c UU=0.5*(Un(I,J)+Un(I+l,J))
c HM=hjm(I,J)
C AD=(STY/4 0.0)*(Vn(I,J+l))/TWODX
c AD=AD+(1.2 *UU+STX/4 0.0)*(Vn(I+l,J)-Vn(1-1,J) )/TWODX
C BF=-.5*TY/HM
c z(i,j-l)=z(i,j)+dx*(ad+f*uu+bf-ty/hm)/g
GOTO 2003
13 UN(I,J+l)=0.
vn(i+l,j)=vn(i,j)
GOTO 2003
14 vn(i,j)=0.
-------
un(i,j +1)=un(i,j)
GOTO 2003
15 UN(I,J)=0.
vn(i,j)=0.0
vn(i,j-1)=0
un(i,j-l)=un(i,j)
UU=0.5*(Un(I,J)+Un(I+l,J))
HM=hjm(I,J)
AD=(STY/40.0)*(Vn(I,J+l))/TWODX
AD=AD+ (1.2 *UU+STX/4 0.0)*(Vn(I+l,J))/TWODX
BF=-.5*TY/HM
z(i,j-l)=z(i,j)+dx*(ad+f*uu+bf-ty/hm)/g
GOTO 2 003
16 VN(I,J)=0.0
UN(1 + 1,J)=0.
vn(i,j+l)=0
un(i+1,j-1)=0
vn(i+1,j)=vn(i, j)
UU=Un(I,J)
HM=hjm(I,J)
AD=(1.2 *UU+STX/4 0.0)*(-Vn(1-1,J))/TWODX
BF=-.5*TY/HM
z(i,j-l)=z(i,j)+dx*(ad+f*uu+bf-ty/hm)/g
GOTO 2003
17 VN(I,J+1)=0.0
UN(I+1,J)=0.0
un(i,j + l)=un(i,j )
vn(i+l,j)=vn(i,j)
GOTO 2003
18 vH(I,J+l)=0.0
uN(I,J)=0.
vn (i-1,j)=vn(i,j)
vn(i-l,j+l)=vn(i,j+l)
GOTO 2003
19 UN(I,J-1)=un(I, j )
vn(i,j)=-z(i,j)*sqrt(g/h(i,j))
GOTO 2003
20 uN(1+1,J)=0.0
un(i,j-1)=un(i,j)
vn(i,j)=-z(i,j)*sqrt (g/h(i,j))
GOTO 2003
21 uN(I,J)=0.0
un(i,j-1)=0.0
vn(i,j)=-z(i,j)*sqrt(g/h(i,j))
2003 CONTINUE
PP(10/14)=pp(10,14)+1
po(19,54)=pp(19,54)+1
PP(18,46)=pp(18,46)+1
pp(21,30)=pp(21,30)+1
po(20,42)=pp(2 0,4 2)+1
pp(22,56)=pp(2 2,5 6)+1
po(2 0,10)=pp(20,10)+1
po(20,20)=pp(20,20)+l
po(18,3 0)=pp(18,3 0)+1
po(28,10)=pp(28,10)+1
DO 2004 J=1,JM
DO 2004 I=is(j),ie(j)
U(I,J)=UN(I,J)
V(I,J)=VN(I,J)
if(pp(i,j).gt.0.00001) then
-------
uu=0.5*(u(i,j)+u(i+l,j))
w=0.5*(v(i, j)+v(i, j + 1) )
uu=(0.7 5*stx-l.5*uu)*(0.8*0.8-1)+stx*(1-.8)
w= (0. 7 5*sty-l. 5*w) *(0.8*0.8-1)+sty*(1-.8)
px(i,j)=px(i,j)+uu*dt
py(i, j)=py(i, j)+w*dt
endif
if(pp(i,j).It.0.00001) goto 2004
rr=sqrt(px(i,j)*px(i,j)+py(i,j)*py(i,j))
if(rr.gt.70.0) then
ql=abs(px(i,j))
q2=abs(py(i,j))
if(ql.gt.q2.and.px(i,j).gt.0.0) then
pp(i+1,j)=pp(i+1,j)+0.4 *pp(i,j)
if(py(ifj)-gt.O) pp(i+1,j+1)=pp(i+1,j+1)+0.l*pp(i,j)
if(py(i» j)•It.0) pp(i+1,j-1)=pp(i+1,j-1)+0.l*pp(i,j)
endif
if(ql.gt.q2.and.px(i,j).It.0.0) then
pp(i-l,j)=pp(i-l,j)+0.4*pp(i,j)
if(py(i/j)-gt.0) pp(i-l,j+l)=pp(i-l,j+1)+0.l*pp(i,j)
if(py(i,j).lt.O) pp(i-l,j-l)=pp(i-l,j-l)+o.l*pp(i,j)
endif
i f(q2.gt.ql.and.py(i,j).gt.0.0) then
PP(i/j + 1)=PP(i»j + 1)+0•4*pp(i, j)
if(px(i,j).gt.O) pp(i+1,j+1)=pp(i+1,j+1)+0.l*pp(i,j)
if(px(i,j).lt.O) pp(i-1,j+1)=pp(i-1,j+1)+0.l*pp(i,j)
endif
if(q2.gt.ql.and.py(i,j).It.0.0) then
PP(i/j"1)=PP(i,j"l)+0.4*pp(i,j)
if(px(i,j).gt.O) pp(i+1,j-1)=pp(i+1,j-1)+0.l*pp(i,j)
if(px(i,j).lt.O) pp(i-1,j-l)=pp(i-1,j-1)+0.l*pp(i,j)
endif
px(i,j)=0
py(i»j)=0
PP(i/j)=PP(i/j)*0.5
endif
2004 CONTINUE
C
C SAVE RESULTS
C
IF(N/50. .NE. N/50) GOTO 1
C
700 continue
EK=0
DO 2005 J=2,JM
IX) 2005 I=IS(J),IE(J)
EK=EK+((U(I,J)+U(I+1,J))**2+(V(I,J)+V(I,J+1))**2)*H(I,J)/8.
2005 CONTINUE
ttt=t/60.0
do ii=l,6
af(ii)=0
j=jf(ii)
do i=is(j),ie(j)
af(ii)=af(ii)+v(i,j)*h(i,j)
enddo
enddo
32 format(f7.2,lx,6(i4,lx,f8.4))
WRITE(*,555) ttt,EK,jm,ilm,i2x
555 FORMAT(' N,EK=',f10.4,F10.4,lx,3(i4,lx))
-------
if(ek.gt.1000000.0) then
write(*,*) 'numerical instability',n,ek
goto 99
endif
imax=0
jmax=0
UVMAX=0
DO 2006 J=2,JM-1
DO 2006 I=is(j),ie(j)
UV2=U(I,J)*U(I,J)+V(I,J)*V(I,J)
IF(UV2 .LT. UVMAX) GOTO 2006
IMAX=I
JMAX=J
UVMAX=UV2
2006 CONTINUE
WRITE( *, *) 'N,IMAX,JMAX(MAGUMAX',N,IMAX,JMAX,SQRT(UVMAX)
IF(T .LT. TNEXT ) GOTO 1
WRITE(* , *) 'SAVED T(HR) =',T/3600.
WRITE(15,250) T,T/3600.
250 FORMAT(' T= ',F10.0,' SEC =',F10.4,' HRS')
DO 2100 J=1,JM-1
WRITE(15,251) J,IS(J),IE(J)
251 FORMAT(313)
WRITE(15,252) (U(I,J),I=IS(J),IE(J))
252 FORMAT(10(F10.6,IX))
253 format(10(f10.1,lx))
WRITE(15,252) (V(I,J),I=IS(J),IE(J))
WRITE(15,252) (Z(I,J),I=IS(J),IE(J))
write(15,253) (pp(i,j),i=is(j),ie(j))
2100 CONTINUE
ISAVE=ISAVE+1
IF(ISAVE .Ge. NSAVE) GOTO 99
TNEXT=TNEXT+TSAVE
GOTO 1
C
99 CLOSE(15)
END
SUBROUTINE RBDF(B1FILE,B2FILE,AVGH,I1M,I2X, JM,KB)
C
C ROUTINE TO READ BATHYMETRIC AND BOUNDARY DATA FILES
C
real*4 u(40,60),un(40,60),v(40,60),vn(40,60),z(40,60)
COMMON/BATH/ H(40,60),IS(60),IE(60)
COMMON/BDRY/ IB(250),JB(250),NB(250),QQ(250)
COMMON/CUR/ U,UN,V,VN,Z
COMMON/HH/ HIP(40,60),HIM(40,60),HJP(40,60),HJM(40,60)
DIMENSION IJB(40,60)
CHARACTER*20 B1FILE*20,B2FILE*20
C
DO 1000 1=1,40
DO 1000 J=1,60
1000 H(I,J)=0.
C
OPEN(10,FILE=B1FILE,STATUS='OLD')
C
J=0
ilm=39
i2x=l
1 J=J+1
-------
READ(10,*,END=10) Is(j),ie(j)
if(is(j).It.ilm) ilm=is(j)
if(ie(j).gt.i2x) i2x=ie(j)
READ(10,*,END=10) (H(I,J),1=1,39)
if(j.ge.60) goto 10
goto 1
CLOSE(10)
JM=J-1
READ BOUNDARY DATA FILE
OPEN(10,FILE=B2FILE,STATUS='OLD')
READ(10,*) KB
DO K=1,KB
READ(10,*) IBB,IB(K),JB(K),NB(K)
enddo
CLOSE(10)
fattom=6.0*.3 04 8
do j=l,60
do i=l,40
if(h(i,j).le.0.0) h(i,j)=1
h(i,j)=h(i,j)*fattom
enddo
enddo
RETURN
END
-------
Appendix F. Quantity of Crab Processed in Akutan
Harbor (Griffin pers. comm.)
-------
CRAB PROCESSED IN AKUTAN HARBOR-JANUARY 1, 1991-FEBRUARY 16, 1992
WEEK ENDING:
POUNDS PROCESSED
1/6/91
112,747
1/13/91
172,644
1/20/91
456,144
1/27/91
995,927
2/3/91
2,095,910
2/10/91
1,338,306
2/17/91
3,965,635
2/24/91
4,299,224
3/3/91
3,370,794
3/10/91
3,547,323
3/17/91
4,145,254
3/24/91
3,101,422
3/31/91
3,594,238
4/7/91
2,382,637
4/14/91
3,762,069
4/21/91
2,259,928
4/28/91
1,310,679
5/5/91
1,283,177
5/12/91
223,047
5/19/91
540,010
5/26/91
153,860
6/2/91
528,413
6/9/91
198,693
6/16/91
312,480
6/23/91
581,029
6/30/91
602,210
11/17/91 (KING CRAB)
. 1,149,877
12/1/91
37,412
12/8/91
956,077
12/15/91
1,463,369
12/22/91
623,150
12/29/91
37,188
1/5/92
48,441
1/12/92
252,485
1/19/92
196,205
1/26/92
286,363
2/2/92
48,441
2/9/92
6,666,736
2/16/92
7,413,328
TOTAL 1991
49,600,873
TOTAL 1/5/92 - 2/16/92
21,835,616
GRAND TOTAL
71,436,489
-------
CRAB PROCESSED IN AKUTAN HARBOR - FEBRUARY 23. 1992 - APRIL 1992
WEEK ENDING POUNDS PROCESSORS
2/23
7,912,619
9
3/1
7 , 592,226
9
3/8
7,010,523
9
3/15
4,649,571
9
3/22
3,631,449
9
3/29
3,464,153
9
4/5
4,461,085
9
4/12
1,254 ,745
6
4/19
270,003
5
4/261
1,980,932
6
Season closed 4/22.
-------
Appendix G.
Side-Scan Sonar Survey
-------
SIDE SCAN SONAR SURVEY
TO DETECT
SEAFOOD PROCESSOR WASTE PILES
IN
AKUTAN HARBOR, ALASKA
Prepared for:
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Office of Wastewater Enforcement and Compliance
401 M Street, Southwest
Washington, DC 20460
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Region X Water Compliance Section
1200 Sixth Avenue WD-135
Seattle, Washington 98101
Prepared by:
Science Applications International Corporation
10260 Campus Point Drive, M/S C2
San Diego, California 92121
Cover Photograph Courtesy of Jones & Stokes Associates, Inc.
Bellevue, Washington
EPA Contract No. 68-C8-0066
OWEC Work Assignment No. C-3-2(E)
SAIC Project No. 01-0895-03-2152-037
August 1992
-------
TABLE OF CONTENTS
SECTION PAGE
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ES-l
1.0 INTRODUCTION 1
2.0 SURVEY METHODOLOGY 5
3.0 FIELD OPERATIONS 9
4.0 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION 15
4.1 Reconnaissance Survey 15
4.2 Sue Specific Surveys 17
4.2.1 The DEEP SEA Site 17
4.2.2 The CLIPPERTON Site 18
4.2.3 Trident Site 18
5.0 SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS 21
6.0 REFERENCES- 22
APPENDICES
A Chronology of Events 23
i
-------
LIST OF TABLES
TABLE PAGE
Table 2-1. Miniranger Station Positions From Side-Scan Sonar Survey
in Akutan Harbor, AK. 6
Table 3-1. Akutan Side Scan Sonar Survey Transect Data 12
Table 3-2. Grab Sample Locations and Ancillary Data. 13
Table 3-3. Description of Grab Samples Taken in Akutan Harbor on
12 April 1992. 14
LIST OF FIGURES
FIGURE PAGE
Figure 1-1. Overview of Study Area Location. 2
Figure 1-2. Akutan Harbor. 4
Figure 2-1. Akutan Harbor Navigation Stations. 7
Figure 3-1. Akutan Harbor Side Scan Sonar Survey Tracklines and Grab
Sample Locations. 10
Figure 4-1. Site Survey Locations. 16
Figure 4-2. Seafood Waste Accumulations at the Trident Outfall Site. 19
ii
-------
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
This report presents results of side scan sonar (SSS) investigations of Akutan Harbor,
AkuLan, Alaska. Akutan Harbor was surveyed to determine the extent of seafood processor waste
discharged within the harbor by floating seafood processors and a shore-based processing facility.
The SSS surveys1 were conducted from April 9 to 11, 1992 and included two phases: a general
reconnaissance survey and site-specific surveys of areas believed to exhibit significant
accumulations of seafood processing wastes. Following the first survey phase, it was determined
that three areas potentially had significant seafood waste accumulations: The DEEP SEA and
CLIPPERTON floating processors and the Trident Seafood outfall site. Of these three sites, only
the DEEP SEA and Trident sites showed evidence of significant seafood processing waste
accumulation. Estimates of areal waste coverage at the DEEP SEA site was 2.5 acres ±25%
while areal coverage of waste at the Trident site was greater. 11.2 acres ±15%.
Additional studies to estimate the volume of seafood waste accumulations are
recommended. Such studies would require a precision depth sounder used in conjunction with
navigation and side scan sonar systems.
'Side scan sonar and associated navigation records are available through Florence K. Carroll,
Compliance Officer, Water Compliance Section, 1200 Sixth Avenue WD-135, Seattle, WA
98101.
ES-1
-------
1.0 INTRODUCTION
Akutan Harbor, Akutan Island—located on the Aleutian Island chain in Alaska
(Figure 1-1)—has become a major center for both mobile and shore-based seafood processors.
Akuian Harbor offers protected waters for floating processors and off-loading vessels and is
also near major crab, cod, sole, and pollock harvesting areas.
In the past, substantial amounts of ground crab and finfish wastes have been
discharged by the shore-based facility, permanently moored vessels, and floating processors.
The large, shore-based. Trident plant now uses a fish meal plant to dispose of finfish wastes.
However, ground crab wastes are still discharged in the receiving water. The National
Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) Seafood General Permit limits discharges to
310,000 pounds of seafood waste per month in Akutan Harbor.
The cumulative impact of the discharges to the subtidal benthic habitats is uncertain.
In addition, there is no indication that currents are sufficient to disperse the waste piles.
Microbial decomposition of the organic wastes is expected to be relatively slow due to the
effects of low water temperatures on biodegradation rates (e.g.. Atlas 1975).
A study conducted by EPA (1984) of Akutan Harbor indicated that there was some
environmental stress related to seafood processing activities in Akutan Harbor, but the study
did not suggest that serious environmental or water quality problems existed at that time. The
study was very short in duration and did not include locations of waste accumulations,
extensive water quality monitoring, sediment sampling, and current studies beyond what was
influenced by immediate weather/wind conditions.
A Side Scan Sonar Investigation was conducted by Watson (1989) of Akutan Harbor
(and Unalaska Island). The Akutan Harbor portion of the investigation concentrated on the
waste pile at the Trident Seafoods site. The findings indicated that wastes covered an area of
23,000 square meters with a estimated volume of 100,000 cubic meters.
With increased fish waste discharges since 1983 and a potential increase in the Bering
Sea pollock allocation for shore-based plants, present conditions need to be assessed in order
for EPA to issue and enforce both individual permits and the Seafood General Permit. One
of the ways to assess the conditions is to determine the area of seafood waste accumulations
1
-------
Akutan, Alaska
Vicinity Map
s ^
M D S
J\r>
-------
in Akutan harbor using a side scan sonar survey Once the areas of accumulation are ploued.
anoiher environmental assessment sur\cv will evaluate the sediments near the accumulations
for chemistry and benthos effects and provide the locations for water quality monitoring over
the accumulations.
This report presents the results and conclusions from a side scan sonar (SSS) survey of
Akutan Harbor conducted by Science Applications International Corporation (SAIC) for the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The purpose of the survey was to determine
the areal extent of significant seafood waste piles located on the harbor floor which have been
discharged from land-based and floating seafood processor facilities. The area surveyed
(Figure 1-2) included a general SSS reconnaissance survey of the inner harbor west of
Longitude 165° 46'W as well as site specific investigations of:
• The Trident Seafood outfall area,
• The DEEP SEA Fisheries permanently moored floating processor area, and
A temporarily moored floating processor.
The survey was conducted from April 9 to 11, 1992, using a digital SSS system.
Based on recommendations from an earlier survey (Watson 1989), a precise navigation system
was used to provide accurate positioning during the survey. Following the survey, grab
samples were collected near the edges of the waste piles to confirm their areal extent.
The sections of the report are: Survey Methodology (2.0); Field Operations (3.0);
Results and Discussion (4.0); and Summary and Conclusions (5.0).
3
-------
Figure 1-2. Akutan Harbor.
Depths in fathoms
AKUTAN PT
•v.
-------
2.0 SURVEY METHODOLOGY
To accurately map the areal extent of crab waste piles from a survey vessel, it was
essential that the SSS system be used in conjunction with an accurate positioning system On
April 6 to 8, 1992, land surveyors from DOWL Engineers, an Anchorage engineering and
surveying company, set up a rectilinear coordinate system within the harbor for use during the
SSS survey. An arbitrary coordinate system was used because survey monuments for the
Alaska state plane coordinate system were either unknown or did not exist in the Akutan
Harbor area. The land survey was to provided coordinates for the shore-based navigation
stations which were needed for proper operation of the positioning system while surveying.
Coordinates for nine stations along the shore of the harbor as well as dock and GPS positions
were provided by the surveyors, and are listed in Table 2-1. A map of the stations surveyed
is shown in Figure 2-1. Five of the nine shore-based navigation stations were used during the
survey. Detailed survey notes from the land survey were obtained from DOWL Engineers in
Anchorage.
A Motorola Miniranger IV (MR4) positioning system was used for the survey. This
system determines position by ranging from the survey vessel, via microwave frequency
signal, to shore stations located at known coordinates. Using the ranges acquired by the
system and the known coordinates of the survey stations, the system can determine the survey
vessel position through a trigonometric software application. The system included a data
processor with keyboard, printer, trackJine plotter, digital tape recorder, and trackline
indicator.
The SSS survey was conducted using an EG&G Model 260 Digital Image Correcting
Side Scan Sonar system. The system consisted of a graphic recorder, tow cable, and towfish
fitted with side-looking transducers. The system provides sonograms of the seabed analogous
to a plan-view photograph and indicates distinguishing features of interest. The image-
correcting properties of the system ensure that distances of seabed features found to either
side of the survey trackline are accurate. However, because the navigation system was not
interfaced directly with the side scan recorder, distances along the survey centerline were
calculated from the navigation records. The recording paper feed rate is a function of survey
5
-------
Table 2-1. Miniranger Station Positions From Side-Scan Sonar Survey in Akutan
Harbor. AK.
Siaiion
Northing (Y)
(ft)"
Easting (X)
'(ft)
Elevation
(ft)
Used During
Survey
Dock
5664.46
9089.23
9.9
GPS
6566.65
5845.65
7.8
MR-1
5264.78
6433.74
49.0
/
MR-2
5594.89
9557.93
16.5
MR-3
5506.80
10240.27
49.0
MR-4
4785.28
12716.19
59.0
/
MR-5
3290.84
17298.17
21.4
/
MR-6
8866.49
17448.22
20.0
/
MR-7
8257.15
12449.38
29.0
MR-8
8777.27
9154.95
48.5
MR-9
8143.50
6589.31
33.5
/
NOTE: Miniranger positions surveyed by DOWL Engineers of Anchorage, AK on
April 6-8, 1992. All units are in feet Coordinates are based on a local grid
system established by the surveyors.
6
-------
Figure 2-1. Akutari Harbor Navigation Stations.
-------
vessel speed; because the navigation system was not interfaced directly with the side scan
recorder, the feed rate was arbitrarily sci at 2 nauticaJ miles per hour (Icls). Details of theory
and operation of the SSS system are presented in the operators' manual (EG&G 1987)
The boat originally proposed for use during the survey (THE FLYING D, a 90 ft
converted landing craft with pilot house on the second deck), was found to be inappropriate
due to its pilot housc/deck layout, high windage, and lack of maneuverability. An alternate
vessel, a 24 ft flat bottom fishing boat with a small cabin, was located in Akutan village and
mobilized for the SSS survey. This vessel was too small to acquire the grab samples required
for the SSS survey verification. Thus, after completion of the SSS survey, the MR4
navigation system was transferred to the FLYING D for grab sample collection.
8
-------
3 0 FIELD OPERATIONS
The SSS survey was conducted in two segments and included 19 survey trackhnes.
The first segment was a reconnaissance survey of the harbor, that included nine trackhnes
(Figure 3-1). The purpose of this survey was to gather sufficient SSS data to determine
/
potential impact sites due to floating processor, as well as shore-based, seafood processing
plant activities. All survey lines were run at approximately 183 m (600 ft) line spacing
except when Lines intersected the shoreline. When this occurred, the survey vessel
"contoured" around promontories at constant water depth. Except for the first line run at ihe
200 m scale (swath width) on the SSS recorder, the other lines were run at the 150 m scale.
Thus, each trackline covered a 300 m swath width (150 m per channel, port and starboard).
This resulted in a 117 m (or 64%) overlap per transect line, ensuring complete survey
coverage. It was planned that preliminary analysis of these data in the field would provide
sufficient information to develop a target list of seafood processor waste impact areas which
could be surveyed in greater detail. The nearshore area on the north side of the harbor west
of the Trident facility was not surveyed due to the presence of a floating water supply hose.
Preliminary assessment of the reconnaissance survey data indicated that three areas
warranted more detailed survey. They included:
Trident Seafoods, a shore-based processor with an offshore outfall for discharge
of seafood processing waste,
DEEP SEA, a permanently moored floating crab processor, and
CLIPPERTON, a temporarily moored floating crab processor, on site since
January 1992.
Also, following preliminary assessment of the side scan data, approximate positions
for 12 grab sample sites (Figure 3-1) were determined. Collection and analysis of these
samples provided additional ground-truth information on seabed conditions and assisted m
assessment of side scan data.
The second survey segment was designed to examine seafood processing waste
impact areas identified during the reconnaissance survey. It included ten tracklines run at the
9
-------
¦i* \
I I /
-3-
*
-8-
V
~S-
/ "pi
/ . '
''o ' I
\ W>
town
AKUtAN
, Akutan Harbor Side Scan
f;»urc3-i- 0epths in t adorns
Sonar Survey
Trackl'mes and
Grab Sample Locals
-------
75 m (~25(J ft) scale with 150 m (~5(X) ft) swath widths per transect. The line spacing for
these sue specific survey tracks was variable due to operational considerations such as
obstruction by floating processor moonng lines, moored buoys, submerged fresh water lines,
dock faces, and shoal (i.e., shallow depth) waters.
The first site examined was the permanently moored DEEP SEA floating processor.
Two transecLS were run from east to west: one on the north side of the processor and one on
the south side. The second site surveyed was the temporarily moored CLIPPERTON floating
processor. Again, two lines were run from east to west on the north and south sides of the
processor.
Six SSS transects were completed at the Trident shore-based facility. Two of these
transects were run across the bathymetric contours. The final four lines were run from west
to east at approximately 90 m (300 ft) line spacing. These lines provided more complete
coverage of the Trident seafood waste pile. Details of the survey tracklines are listed in
Table 3-1.
Twelve grab samples were obtained to substantiate the findings of the side scan
survey. A listing of positioning and other ancillary data for the grab samples is shown in
Table 3-2, a summary of the descriptions of each grab sample is contained in Table 3-3, and
the positions of the grab samples relative to the tracklines are provided in Figure 3-1.
-------
Table 3-1. Akutan Side Scan Sonar Survey Transect Data.
Survey conducted on April 9 through 11, 1992 at Akutan, AK.
Line
No
Date
Start
Time
(hhmm)
End
Time
(hhmm)
Plot
Refer
Line
Offset
CO
Heading
Side
Scan
Scale
(m)
Fix
Start
Fix
End
No of
Pages
of
Data
Comments
1
4/9/92
1646
1812
1
0
E->W
200
6
47
7
Reconnaissance
2
4/9/92
1928
2050
1
600 S
E->W
150
49
89
8
Reconnaissance
3
4/9/92
2106
2224
1
1200 S
E->W
150
90
126
8
Reconnaissance
4
4/10/92
853
941
1
1800 S
E->W
150
128
149
5
Reconnaissance
5
4/10/92
954
1035
1
2400 S
E->W
150
150
170
5
Reconnaissance
6
4/10/92
1128
1311
1
600 N
E->W
150
171
224
11
Reconnaissance
7
4/10/92
1409
1547
1
1200 N
E->W
150
225
275
10
Reconnaissance
8
4/10/92
1608
1638
1
1800 N
E->W
150
277
292
3
Reconnaissance
9
4/10/92
1650
1706
1
2400 N
E->W
150
293
302
2
Reconnaissance
10
4/10/92
1820
1831
1
-900 S
E->W
75
304
309
3
Deep Sea site S
11
4/10/92
1S43
1848
1
-500 S
E->W
75
310
314
2
Deep Sea site N
12
4/10/92
1857
1906
1
-0
E->W
75
315
320
2
Clipperton silo S
13
4/10/92
1913
1918
1
-200 N
E->W
75
321
324
2
Clipperlon site N
14
4/10/92
1943
1954
4
3100 E
S->N
75
325
332
3
Tndent site
15
4/10/92
2001
2005
4
2800 E
N->S
75
333
335
2
Abort line
16
4/11/92
907
928
1
500 N
W->E
75
401
412
5
Tndent site
17
4/11/92
940
957
1
800 N
W->E
75
413
423
4
Tndent site
18
4/11/92
1008
1020
1
1100 N
W->E
75
424
431
5
Tndent site
19
4/11/92
1030
1045
1
1300 N
W->E
75
432
440
4
Tndent site
-------
Table 3-2. Grab Sample Locations and Ancillary Data. Grab samples were taken on 12
April 1992 in Akutan Harbor, AK.
Location
Sample
Number
Chainage
(fo
Offset
(ft)
Uncor.
Depth
(ft)
Magnetic
Heading
(deg)
Local
Time
(hhmm)
I
2128
1665
...
073
1045
2
2573
1006
163
122
1100 (esi)
3
2334
363
...
351
1127
4
2034
-321
150
106
1143
5
5605
364
159
140
1214
' . 6
6038
692
156
324
1230 (est)
7
7133
-811
138
079
1258
8
6900
-375
—
348
1317
9
9941
-268
142
057
1350
10
11361
-480
112
334
1407
11
13142
267
84
284
1418
12
12841
842
88
074
1430 (est)
Note: The Mini-Ranger IV antenna was located above the pilot house. The grab sample boom was located at a
position 28 6° clockwise from the ship's head at a distance of 25 ft relative to the antenna.
Chainage and offsets were calculated based on a survey centerhne defined by the following parameters.
Line
Easung(x)
Northing(v)
Chainage
Offset
(ft)
(ft)
(ft)
(ft)
Start
19800
6200
0
0
End
6625
6800
13181
0
Coordinates were based on a local coordinate system established by DOWL Engineers of Anchorage, AK.
Positive offsets were to the left (or south) of the centerhne and negative offsets were to the right (or north)
of the centerline.
13
-------
Table 3-3. Description of Grab Samples Taken in Akutan Harbor on 12 April 1992.
Sample
Number
Description
1
Fine silt with some clam shells. No hydrogen sulfide odor.
2
Coarse silt with clam shell fragments. Strong hydrogen sulfide odor
3
Coarse silt with fine sand and clam shell fragments. Strong hydrogen sulfide
odor.
4
Silt with no sand. Fish bones evident. No odor.
5
Brown muddy silt. No odor.
6
Silt with some clam shells. No odor.
7
Fish waste odor. No natural sediments. Very strong hydrogen sulfide odor.
8
Silt with clam shells. Hydrogen sulfide odor. White ooze evident-
9
Silt with clam shells and numerous worm tubes. No odor. ¦
10
Coarse brown silt with some shells and rocks
11
Silt with clam shells and numerous polychaetes.
12
Coarse silt with crab shell. Hydrogen sulfide odor.
14
-------
4 0 RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
This section presents ihe results and discussion from the side scan sonar survey
including grab sample analyses. The reconnaissance survey is presented in Section 4 1, Site-
specific survey information is presented in Section 4 2.
4.1 Reconnaissance Survey
Analysis of the reconnaissance survey data indicated two significant areas of
accumulated seafood waste. These areas included regions in proximity to the Trident shore-
based seafood processing facility's discharge and the DEEP SEA floating processor (Figure 4-
1). These areas were characterized on the side scan records by distinct differences in the
acoustic reflectivity of the seabed in the vicinity of the waste piles when compared to
reflectivity of the natural bottom. Except in the nearshore area, and for occasional man-made
and natural features, the natural bottom was composed of silts which generally appeared on
the side scan records as a light gray tone indicating a relatively soft, smooth reflector. In the
nearshore area, steep slopes and coarser bottom materials acted as strong reflectors and
appeared as a dark gray or nearly black tone that was significantly different from the acoustic
properties of the main harbor basin. The presence of silt throughout the natural harbor
bottom was confirmed by the acquired grab samples (Table 3-3).
Other than the two sites discussed above, the side scan records indicated a significant
number of anchor drag marks throughout the harbor. These evidently were the result of
moorings made by transient, floating seafood processors and other vessels. It was expected
that some seafood waste piles would be evident on the seabed in the outer harbor. However,
because most processors are single-point moored, shift position with the wind, and are only in
the harbor for short durations, seafood waste concentrations were too diffuse to detect using
side scan sonar alone. However, grab samples 2 and 3 from the outer harbor (see Figure 3-1)
had a strong odor of hydrogen sulfide although no crab or fish parts were evident in the
sample. The stronger acoustic reflectivity, evident on the side scan records, the presence of
15
-------
Figure 4-1. Site Survey Locations: (DEEP SEA, CLIPPERTON Floating Processors and Trident Facility).
-------
anchor drag marks, and the hydrogen sulfide smell of grab samples collected in the vicinity
suggest that these locauons may have been historical crab or fish waste disposal sites.
4.2 Sue Specific Surveys
The following sections present results from detailed surveys of the DEEP SEA and
CLIPPERTON floating processor sites and the shore-based Trident processing facility.
4.2.1 The DEEP SEA Site
The seabed beneath the DEEP SEA floating processor was analyzed using data taken
from transects 2, 3, 10, and 11. The first two lines were completed as part of the
reconnaissance survey while the second two lines were run specifically to examine seabed
conditions beneath the DEEP SEA. The survey in this area was complicated by the presence
of water supply lines which ran from shore to the processor, permanent mooring lines, the
steep bathymetric slope running up to the beach at the end of the harbor, the presence of a
seasonal stream depositing sediments in the southwest comer of the site, and the location of
the processor in the corner of the harbor.
Based on the side scan data it appeared that the distribution of seafood waste on the
seabed was quite patchy. This patchiness was confirmed by grab samples taken by others
during the same survey period (Oestman, pers. comm. 1992). Six patches were identified
from the side scan records as potentially representing seafood waste disposal accumulations.
The area of the seabed covered by these six patches is approximately 2.5 acres or 10,000 sq.
m (109,000 sq. ft). A seventh patch was identified just to the west of the surveyed area but
was considered too close to shore to be a waste pile. Unfortunately, there were insufficient
resources to allow grab samples to be taken at the center and edges of each of the patch sites.
Thus, confirmation of each patch as a waste pile was not possible. The estimated error for
patch area is +/- 25%. This areal measurement does not include areas that may be covered
only by a thin veneer of seafood waste.
17
-------
4.2.2 The CLIPPERTON Sue
Analysis of the CLIPPERTON sue data was based on side scan data collected from transects
1,6, 12, and 13. TrackJines 12 and 13 were run on the south and north sides of the
CLIPPERTON. The CLIPPERTON site was chosen because it was moored fore and aft and
could not swing freely at anchor like most temporarily moored seafood processors. Because
it was anchored in a semi-fixed position, the CLIPPERTON was assumed to have the greatest
likelihood of accumulated seafood waste beneath it. There was evidence of crab shell and
hydrogen sulfide odor in a sediment grab sample acquired on the north side of the
CLIPPERTON (Larsen. pers. comm. 1992). However, analysis of the side scan data indicated
little evidence of accumulated seabed waste in the vicinity of the CLIPPERTON except for
slightly higher acoustic reflectivity of the seabed on the north side of the processor.
4.2.3 Trident Site
The Trident site was analyzed using side scan data collected from transects 6, 7, and
14 through 19. The first two transects were run as part of the reconnaissance survey. The
last six lines were part of a site specific survey in the vicinity of the Trident outfall. Based
on analysis of the side scan data, several seafood waste features were identified at the outfall
site (Figure 4-2). The first feature is the boundary limit of the seafood waste coverage of the
seabed. This was clearly evident from the side scan records as denoted by the difference in
acoustic reflectivity between the natural seabed and the seafood waste pile near the outfall.
The boundary was not as clear in the region adjacent to the Trident dock. The area covered
by seafood waste was estimated to be approximately 11.2 acres or 45,500 sq. m
(490.000 sq. ft).
The second feature identified was the primary waste pile. The pile appeared to be
approximately 75 m in diameter, resulting in an area of about 1.2 acres or 4850 sq. m
(52,200 sq. ft).
18
-------
Figure 4-2. Seafood Waste Accumulations at the Trident Outfall Site.
-------
Based on the waste boundary shape, it appeared that .seafood waste may have spread
downslope in a southerly direction, and along the bathymetnc contour in both easterly and
westerly directions
20
-------
5.0
SUMMARY AND CONCLUSIONS
Akutan Harbor was surveyed 10 determine ihe extern of seafood processor waste on
the seabed wiihin the harbor. A reconnaissance survey of the harbor was conducted to
determine probable sues of seafood processor waste piles. Through preliminary assessment of
data in the field it was determined that the only sites which were important to consider
furiher-based on the scope of this project—were the DEEP SEA site at the southwest comer
of the harbor, the CLIPPERTON site at the west central edge of the harbor, and the Trident
site located at the north central shore of the harbor, just west of the town of Akutan.
Of the three sites, only the DEEP SEA and Trident sites showed evidence of
significant seafood processing waste accumulation. At the DEEP SEA site, the area! extent of
seafood accumulation was estimated to be 2.5 acres (10,000 sq. m) +/-25%. At the Trident
site the areal extent of seafood processor waste was estimated to be 11.2 acres (45,500 sq m)
+/ 15%.
Subbottom profiling has been suggested by Watson (1989) as a method of ,
determining the depth of crab waste in the harbor; however, there is evidence that this method
would not be entirely successful. Based on the experience of flying a remotely operated
vehicle (ROV) over the crab and fish waste piles, it was evident that there was a significant
quantity of biogenic gas bubbling up from the piles. This may be observed on the video
tapes acquired by Jones and Stokes Associates during this field effort. Because biogenic gas
in sediments makes them acoustically opaque, it would probably not be possible to "see"
through the waste material to natural bottom and subsequently determine the thickness of
seafood waste. Only in areas where the sediments and the seafood waste were degassed
would it be possible to conduct this type of survey.
21
-------
60
REFERENCES
Atlas, R.M. 1975. Effects of temperature and crude oil composition on petroleum
biodegradation. Applied Microbiology 30.396-403.
EG&G 1987. Model 260 Image Correcting Side Scan Sonar Instruction Manual. EG&G
Environmental Equipment, 216 Middlesex Turnpike, Burlington, MA 01803
Larsen, L. 1992. Personal communication. Field notes taken during grab sampling in
Akutan during April 1992. Jones and Stokes Associates, Bellevue, WA.
Motorola Corporation. (Date unspecified). Motorola Mimranger IV Operators Manual.
Motorola Corporation, Tempe, AZ.
Oestman, R. 1992. Personal communication. Telephone call from T. Petrillo to R. Oestman,
Jones and Stokes Associates, Bellevue, WA, on 10 June 1992.
U.S. EPA. 1984. Effects of Seafood Waste Deposits on Water Quality and Benthos,
Akutan Harbor, Alaska. EPA Report No. 910/9-83-114. 81 pp.
Watson, W.D. 1989. Akutan Harbor - Unalaska Island Side Scan Sonar Investigation, Report
No. WOI-5689601. Prepared for U.S. EPA, Anchorage, AK. Prepared by Watson
Co., Anchorage, AK.
22
-------
APPENDIX A
Chronology of E\enis
Tuesday, April 7ih
The survey learn and equipment arrived in Akutan via amphibious plane on four
separate flights due to the excessive weight of the equipment. Most of the equipment was
moved into a storage shed near the town dock which served as the staging area for the field
effort.
After inspecting the FLYING D, a 90 ft converted landing craft, it was determined
that it would not serve well as a survey vessel. A 24' fishing boat, on shore for the winter,
was available and was chosen for conducting the survey.
The marine survey team met with the land survey team to coordinate details of the .
locations of the shore stations.
Wednesday, April 8th
Due to a problem with the starboard engine, the survey boat could not be launched
before low tide. In addition, because the navigation system needed AJC power, a portable
generator was flown in from Anchorage, and arrived on Thursday, April 9th.
Most of the day was spent mobilizing and testing the SSS and MR4 equipment on the
survey vessel and setting up five positioning shore stations around the harbor. After the MR4
equipment was set up, it was tested using shore power; because of its proximity to the
navigation stations, it was determined to be capable of receiving signals from four of the five
stations.
Thursday, April 9th
The boat was launched at high tide around 1100 and brought to the city pier. The
SSS was tested in the water and was found to function properly. The portable generator
which arrived at approximately 1500.
Three side scan survey lines (numbers 1 through 3) were run in the late afternoon and
early evening. The first line, set at the 200 m scale on the SSS, was run along the centerline
23
-------
of the survey. The centerline wis an arbitrary line, set approximately east-west, which ran
along the approximate centerline of the harbor. This aJlowed most of the survey lines to be
run as offsets of this centerline, approximately parallel with the bathymetnc contours of the
harbor.
The second and third lines were run parallel with the centerline at approximately 200
meter offsets to the south.
Friday, April 10th
Twelve SSS lines (numbers 4 through 15) were run. Lines 4 through 9 were run at
the 150 meter scale on the SSS. This completed the reconnaissance survey of the harbor.
From preliminary assessment of the data it was determined that three sites would be examined
in more detail. They included:
• Trident Seafoods site, a shore-based processor with an offshore outfall for
seafood processing waste,
• Deep Sea Fisheries site, a permanently moored crab processor, and
• CLIPPERTON site, a temporarily moored crab processor, on site since
January 1992.
The last six survey transects of the day were run at the 75 m scale on the SSS. The
first two lines were run from east to west on the south and north sides of the DEEP SEA site.
The second two lines were run from east to west on the south and north sides of the
CLIPPERTON site. The last two lines were run at the Trident site in a north-south direction.
These lines were not as successful as the east-west lines because the SSS towfish had to be
raised and lowered as the survey vessel crossed the bathymetric contours of the harbor. It
was determined"that additional lines should be run on April 11 to achieve the detailed
coverage needed.
24
-------
Saturday. April 11th
Four SSS lines (numbers 16 through 19) were run at the 75 m scale at the Trident
Seafood outfall site. Following this, the SSS was demobilized and the ROV was set up for
operations.
To determine the positions of grab samples taken for SSS data verification, all of the
SSS and MR4 data were examined in Akutan. Due to time limitations, twelve sites were
chosen to provide baseline information for SSS data analysis Following this, compiling
navigation data for the twelve stations, survey personnel and Jones and Stokes Associates
personnel collected the grab samples from the survey vessel FLYING D.
The remainder of the day was spent conducting ROV surveys.
Sunday, April 12th
ROV Surveys and sediment grab sampling were conducted.
Monday. April 13th
Several ROV lines were run in the morning. Because the weather had been marginal,
it was decided that all of the equipment should be transferred to Dutch Harbor on the
FLYING D instead of by aircraft. All equipment was loaded onto the boat and either tied
down under the pilot house or packed into the forward hold.
The survey team flew to Dutch Harbor in the late afternoon but could not connect
with a flight to Anchorage and thus remained in Dutch Harbor for the night. At
approximately 2200, the FLYING D arrived from Akutan. The equipment was offloaded to a
truck and transferred to a shipping container for transfer to Seattle.
Tuesday, April 14th
The survey team flew from Dutch Harbor, Alaska, to Seattle, Washington.
25
-------
Appendix H. Qualitative Characterization of Sediments
in Akutan Harbor
-------
Table H-l. Fractional Distribution by Weight of the Three Dominant Sediment Grain Sizes
from Stations Sampled in 1983 and 1992, Akutan Harbor, Alaska
Station #
1983 Sediments
1992 Sediments
Dominant
(%)
1st Sub-
dominant
(%)
2nd Sub-
dominant
(%)
Dominant
(%)
1st Sub-
dominant
(%)
2nd Sub-
dominant
(%)
Depth
(ft)
Comments
1
38.9"
31.»
19.1'
65.9"
11.2J
9.9"
101
hydrogen sulfide smell
2
41.7d
21.9"
12.01
55.9"
14.91
14.41
54
course sediments, oily sheen in sediments,
two large anenomes, benthic algae, few
worms, propuloids
3
44.6"
26.0'
12.8
49.5'
24.0"
10.5"
89
course sediments, a large amount of
clamshell debris, some crab waste
5
61.3"
21.9
7.3'
61.1"
18.81
11.6'
128
moderately anoxic, numerous polychactes,
clamshell debris, several unidentified clams
6
70.9"
18.4>
5.5'
64.6k
18.1j
4.6'
143
strong hydrogen sulfide smell, some Ulva,
some crab waste
7
63.6"
73.T
9.2'
38.4k
23.4s
18.6'
157
small amount of shell debris
7A
--
-
-
57.4"
16.4'
15.3"
124
very anoxic, strong hydrogen sulfide smell,
a large number of fish bones
8
50.0"
25.71
14.6'
39.8"
25.8'
25.&
118
course sediments, large amount of
clamshell debris
8A
__
__
54.2"
16.9"
14.01
154
hydrogen sulfide smell, some crab waste
9
68.6"
21.1J
4.4'
61.6k
24.2J
4.6'
156
fairly anoxic, some crab chelipeds
10
27.0"
24.1'
18.61
58.0"
20.5
12.1'
140
very silty
10A
--
--
--
48.8k
25.51
2o.y
ID
strong hydrogen sulfide smell, larger bivalve
debris and fragments
11
65.4"
25.11
5.6'
64.4k
27.91
5.8'
170
few polychaetes
-------
Table H-l. Continued
Station #
1983 Sediments
1992 Sediments
Dominant
(%)
1st Sub-
dominant
(%)
2nd Sub-
dominant
(%)
Dominant
(%)
1st Sub-
dominant
(%)
2nd Sub-
dominant
(%)
Depth
(ft)
Comments
12
42.6>
39.6"
14.5'
39.5h
32.01
21.0
126
slight hydrogen sulfide smell, some crab
shell debris
13
- 82.5s
10.0"
3.01
37.0*
30.&
25.31
160
few bivalve shells
P03
__
__
56.2k
22.5*
15.01
some clamshell debris
BPO
-
--
-
24.6>
24.0"
18.2'
-
large amount of clamshell debris, one
unidentified clam, numerous polychaetes
Note: Samples taken in 1992 were not sorted for substrates larger than fine gravel.
— indicates no data
* Cobbles or Larger >50 mm
b Coarse Gravel 31.5 to 50 mm
c Medium Gravel 19 to 31.5 mm
d Fine Gravel 0.75 to 19 mm
' Very Fine Gravel 2 to 4.75 mm
' Very Coarse Sand 1 to 2 mm
8 Coarse Sand 0.5 to 1 mm
h Medium Sand 0.25 to 0.5 mm
' Fine Sand 0.125 to 0.25 mm
' Very Fine Sand 0.063 to 0.125 mm
k Silts and Clays <0.063 mm
1 Fine Gravel and Larger >4.75 mm
Source of 1983 data: EPA 1984b.
-------
Table H-2. Qualitative Description of Physical and Biological Conditions in Gravity Core and Van Veen Sediment Samples
Taken in April 1992, Akutan Harbor, Alaska
Sample #
Depth
(ft)
Physical Observations
Biological Observations
Core Samples
Sample Stations
CI
91
4-inch penetration; 2 inches of soft silt overlaying
compacted silt; sediment is gray
scattered shell debris and large tubcworm casings
found
C3
109
8-inch penetration, uniform texture, gray
sediments
clamshell fragments
C5
131
8-inch penetration, 4 inches of soft, gelatinous silt
overlaying compacted silt, gray sediments
tubeworms in upper 3 inches, some shell debris
C6
149
6-inch penetration, some sediments have a brown
color
tubeworms in upper 3 inches
C7
121
6- to 8-inch penetration, coarse sediments (sand
and gravel) on surface overlaying fine sediments
tubeworms in upper 2 inches, 10% to 20% shell
debris
C7A
122
sediments too soft to collect core sample
C9
158
2-inch penetration, very consolidated
few shell fragments
C14
200
4-inch penetration, 2 inches of soft silt overlaying
a loose, fine, silty mud
a few tubeworms and a small amount of shell
debris
C15
167
6-inch penetration, top 1.5 inches composed of
soft silt over a slightly more compacted layer
a few tubeworms
Other Stations
COl (halfway between
Core Stations 1 and 2)
86
8-inch penetration, 2 inches of fine, soft, silty mud
overlaying semi-consolidated silt
some shell debris
C02 (40'N of proposed
Deep Sea outfall)
80*
too loose to get a sample, took a Van Veen grab
sample at site, little silt
Van Veen sample contained all crab waste with a
lot of unground shell; 8 to 10 full carapaces and
approximately 20 leg exoskeletons
-------
Table H-2. Continued
Sample #
Depth
(ft)
Physical Observations
Biological Observations
Other Stations, continued
C03 (60'N of proposed
Deep Sea outfall)
100*
4-inch penetration, sand/gravel with some surface
silt
some clamshell debris, no hydrogen sulfide smell
C04 (120'N of proposed
Deep Sea outfall)
100*
6-inch penetration, very consolidated at depth,
some gravel
some tubeworms, clamshell debris, and pieces of
crab waste, no hydrogen sulfide odor
C05 (180'N of proposed
Deep Sea outfall)
100*
2-inch penetration, silt substrate
hydrogen sulfide odor
COP1
(Deep Sea crab waste)
80*
too loose to retrieve a core sample
COP2
(Deep Sea crab waste),
80*
too loose to retrieve a core sample
hydrogen sulfide odor emanating from the empty
sampler
Van Veen Grab Samples
Deep Sea Outrall
VT1
80*
consolidated dark silts
hydrogen sulfide odor, a few polychaetes
VT2
80*
1/8- to 1/4-inch gravel, very dark in color with
very little fine sediments
moderate hydrogen sulfide odor, small amount of
shell debris
VT3
80*
coarse sediments
strong hydrogen sulfide odor, a lot of
decomposed crab waste, some exoskelelal
remains
VT4
80*
piece of plastic buoy in sample, coarse sediments
a slight hydrogen sulfide odor, two anenomcs
attached to buoy, several brittle stars and many
larger tubeworm casings
VT5
80*
coarse sediments with some gravel, a trace of oil
was also found
crab debris, a scaphopod, and clamshell debris
-------
Table H-2. Continued
Sample #
Depth
(ft)
Physical Observations
Biological Observations
Clipperton Outfall
VCL1
120*
black silt
tubeworms
VCL2
120*
silt
hydrogen sulfide odor, crab debris
Trident Dock
VOl (Trident Dock)
130*
too soft, winnowing as sample was retrieved
fish bones
Proposed Outfall
VPOl
100*
sediments composed primarily of silt sediments
a small amount of crab waste, many polychactcs,
clams, some algae, and a brittle star
VP02
60*
gravel with fine sediments
Ulva, two 1-inch diameter unidentified clams,
shell debris
VP03
60*
silt and sand
Ulva, 1-inch diameter unidentified clams, shell
debris
VP04
60*
gray silt with some brown fine sediments
butter clams (Saxidomus giganteus), tubeworms
VBPOl
60'
scattered cobbles with silt
barnacles on cobbles, one 1-inch unidentified
clam, a variety of polychaetes, clamshell debris
Side-Scan Samples
VSSS1
160*
fine silt
some shell debris
VSSS2
163
coarse silt
strong hydrogen sulfide odor, some clamshell
debris
VSSS3
155*
coarse silt, sand
strong hydrogen sulfide odor, some shell debris
VSSS4
150
silt, no sand
fish bones, no hydrogen sulfide odor
VSSS5
159
muddy, brown silt
no hydrogen sulfide odor
-------
Table H-2. Continued
Sample #
Depth
(ft)
Physical Observations
Biological Observations
Side-Scan Samples, continued
VSSS6
156
silt
clamshell debris
VSSS7
128
solid fish waste, strong hydrogen sulfide odor
VSSS8
138
silt
hydrogen sulfide odor, unidentified organic white
viscous liquid, shell debris
VSSS9
142
silt
a large quantity of tubeworms and a medium
amount of shell debris
VSSS10
112
coarse brown silt with cobble sized rocks
shell debris
. VSSS11
84
silt
lots of polychaetes, little shell debris
VSSS12
88
coarse silt
crab waste, hydrogen sulfide odor
Sample Stations
1
100
granular silt
hydrogen sulfide smell, anoxic
2
39
coarse sediments, contains 1/4- to 1/2-inch
gravel, oily sheen on gravel
two large anenomes, benthic algae, prapuloids? -
20, a few polychaetes
3
79
coarse sediments, contains 1/2- to 1-inch rock
some crab waste, large quantities of clamshell
debris
5
126
sand and silt
moderately anoxic, numerous polychaetes,
unidentified clams, clamshell debris
6
143
sediments composed of silt
anoxic, strong hydrogen sulfide odor, a small
amount of crab waste, a small amount of Ulva
7
158
sediments composed primarily of silt
a minor amount of shell debris
7A
108
sediments composed of silt
very anoxic, strong hydrogen sulfide odor, a large
amount of fish bones
-------
Table H-2. Continued
Sample #
Depth
(ft)
Physical Observations
Biological Observations
Sample Stations, continued
8
136
very coarse sediments, high gravel and cobble
component
a larger amount of shell debris and fewer
polychaetes than other samples from unimpacted
areas
8A
130
sediments composed of silt
hydrogen sulfide odor present with some crab
waste
9
157
silt and clay
fairly anoxic, some pieces of crab chelipeds
10
145
sediments composed of silt
10A
104
sediments composed primarily of silt
strong hydrogen sulfide odor, a large amount of
clamshell debris with larger shell fragments
11
167
sediments composed primarily of silt
fewer polychaetes than other samples
12
115
sediments composed primarily of silt
slight hydrogen sulfide smell, a small amount of
ground crab shell
13
152
sediments composed primarily of silt
a moderate amount of shell debris
Depths are estimated at these stations.
-------
-------
-------
-------
Appendix I. Species Checklist and Individual Counts of
Benthic Species Found in Akutan Harbor,
April 1992
-------
Table 1-1. Checklist of Benthic Species Found in
Akutan Harbor, Alaska, April 1992
Phylum Protozoa
Order Foraminiferida
Foraminifera sp. Indeterminate
Phylum Nemertea
Phylum Nematoda
Nemertea sp. Indeterminate
Nematoda sp. Indeterminate
Phylum Priapulida
Order Priapuiomorpha
Family Priapulidae
Priapulus caudatus (Lamarck, 1816)
Phylum Annelida
Class Polychaeta
Order Orbiniida
Family Orbiniidae
Leitoscoloplos pugettensis (Johnson, 1901)
Family Paraonidae
Paraonidae sp. Indeterminate
Order Cossurida
Family Cossuridae
Cossura sp. Indeterminate
Order Spionida
Family Apistobranchidae
Apistobranchus tullbergi (Theel, 1879)
Family Spionidae
Boccardia nr. polybranchia (Haswell, 1885)
Polydora brachycephala (Hartman, 1936)
Polydora socialis (Schmarda, 1861)
Polydora sp. A
Prionospio sp. Indeterminate
Prionospio (Prionospio) steenstrupi (Malmgren, 1867)
Spio cirrifera (Banse and Hobson, 1968)
Spionidae sp. Indeterminate
Spiophanes berkeleyorum (Pettibone, 1962)
Family Magelonidae
Magelona longicornis (Johnson, 1901)
1-1
-------
Table I-1. Continued
Family Cirratulidae
Chaetozone setosa (Malmgren, 1867)
Cirratulidae sp. Indeterminate
Order Capitellida
Family Capitellidae
Barantolla sp. A
Capitella capitata complex (Fabricius, 1780)
Capitellidae sp. Indeterminate
Decamastus gracilis (Hartman, 1963)
Heteromastus filobranchus (Berkeley & Berkeley, 1932)
Mediomastus sp. Indeterminate
Notomastus (Clistomastus) lineatus (Claparede, 1870)
Family Maldanidae
Euclymene reticulata (Moore, 1923)
Euclymeninae sp. Indeterminate
Maldanidae sp. Indeterminate
Praxillella gracilis (M. Sars, 1861)
Rhodine bitorquata (Moore, 1923)
Order Opheliida
Family Opheliidae
Armandia brevis (Moore, 1906)
Ophelina acuminata (Oersted, 1843)
Travisia forbesii (Johnston, 1840)
Family Scalibregmidae
Scalibregma inflatum (Rathke, 1843)
Order Phyllodocida
Family Phyllodocidae
Eteone californica (Hartman, 1936)
Phyllodoce citrina (Malmgren, 1865)
Phyllodoce (Anaitides) groenlandica (Oersted, 1843)
Phyllodoce sp. Indeterminate
Family Polynoidae
Harmothoe imbricata (Linnaeus, 1767)
Polynoidae sp. Indeterminate
Polynoidae sp. A
Family Sigalionidae
Pholoe minuta (Fabricius, 1780)
Family Syllidae
Syllidae sp. Indeterminate
Syllis (Ehlersia) heterochaeta (Moore, 1909)
Syllis sp. Indeterminate
Syllis (Syllis) elongata (Johnson, 1901)
1-2
-------
Table 1-1. Continued
Family Nereidae
Nereis zonata (Malmgren, 1867)
Family Goniadidae
Glycinde picta (Berkeley, 1927)
Goniada maculata (Oersted, 1843)
Family Nephtyidae
Nephtys caeca (Fabricius, 1780)
Nephtys ferruginea (Hartman, 1940)
Nephtys punctata (Hartman, 1938)
Nephtys sp. Indeterminate
Nephtys sp. Juvenile
Family Sphaerodoridae
Sphaerodoropsis sphaerulifer (Moore, 1909)
Order Eunicida
Family Onuphidae
Onuphis sp. Juvenile
Family Lumbrineridae
Lumbrineris bicirrata (Treadwell, 1929)
Lumbrineris luti (Berkeley & Berkeley, 1945)
Lumbrineris sp. Indeterminate
Family Dorvilleidae
Dorvillea annulata (Moore, 1906)
Dorvilleidae sp. Juvenile
Order Oweniidae
Family Oweniidae
Galathowenia oculata (Zachs, 1923)
Order Flabelligerida
Family Flabelligeridae
Order Terebellida
Family Pectinariidae
Pectinaria granulata (Linnaeus, 1767)
Family Ampharetidae
Ampharete acutifrons (Grube, 1860)
Ampharete finmarchica (Sars, 1865)
Ampharetidae sp. Indeterminate
Ampharetidae sp. Juvenile
Amphicteis glabra (Moore, 1905)
Amphicteis mucronata (Moore, 1923)
Asabellides sibirica (Wiren, 1883)
Glyphanostomum nr. pallescens (Theel, 1878)
Lysippe labiata (Malmgren, 1866)
Melinna elisabethae (Mcintosh, 1922)
1-3
-------
Table 1-1. Continued
Family Terebellidae
Lanassa sp. A
Neoamphitrite edwardsi (Quatrefages, 1865)
Pista cristata (Muller, 1776)
Terebellidae sp. Indeterminate
Family Trichobranchidae
Terebellides stroemi (Sars, 1835)
Order Sabellida
Family Sabellidae
Chone duneri (Malmgren, 1867)
Class Oligochaeta
Oligochaeta sp. Indeterminate
Phylum Mollusca
Class Gastropoda
Order Archaeogastropoda
Family Lepetidae
Lepeta concentrica (Middendorff, 1851)
Order Mesogastropoda
Family Lacunidae
Lacuna vincta (Montagu, 1803)
Family Littorinidae
Littorina saxitilis (Olivi, 1792)
Family Rissoidae
Alvania compacta (Carpenter, 1864)
Family Naticidae
Natica clausa (Broderip & Sowerby, 1829)
Order Neogastropoda
Family Columbellidae
. Nitidella gouldi (Carpenter, 1857)
Family Turridae
Oenopota harpularia (Couthouy, 1838)
Oenopota elegans
Subclass Opistobranchia
Family Pyramidellidae
Odostomia sp. Indeterminate
Turbonilla sp. Indeterminate
Order Cephalaspidea
Family Retusidae
Retusa sp. Indeterminate
Family Cylichnidae
Cylichna attonsa (Carpenter, 1865)
1-4
-------
Table 1-1. Continued
Class Bivalvia
Bivalvia sp. Juvenile
Order Nuculoida
Family Nuculidae
Nucula tenuis (Montagu, 1808)
Family Nuculanidae
Malletia sp. Indeterminate
Nuculana minuta (Fabricius, 1776)
Yoldia hyperboria (Torrell, 1859)
Yoldia scissurata (Dall, 1897)
Family Mytilidae
Musculus niger (J. E. Gray, 1824)
Mytilidae sp. Juvenile
Family Anomiidae
Pododesmus macroschisma (Deshayes, 1839)
Order Veneroida
Family Thyasiridae
Adontorhina cyclia (Berry, 1947)
Axinopsida serricata (Carpenter, 1864)
Thyasira flexuosa (Montagu, 1803)
Family Montacutidae
Mysella tumida (Carpenter, 1864)
Family Cardiidae
Clinocardium ciliatum (Fabricius, 1780)
Serripes groenlandicus (Bruguiere, 1789)
Family Tellinidae
Macoma calcarea (Gmelin, 1791)
Macoma carlottensis (Whiteaves, 1880)
Macoma moesta alaskana (Deshayes, 1855)
Macoma sp. Juvenile
Family Veneridae
Saxidomus giganteus (Deshayes, 1839)
Order Myoida
Family Myidae
Cryptomya californica (Conrad, 1837)
Mya pseudoarenaria (Schlesch, 1931)
Mya sp. Juvenile
Mya uzensis (Nomura & Zinbo, 1937)
Family Hiatellidae
Hiatella arctica (Linnaeus, 1767)
1-5
-------
Table 1-1. Continued
Phylum Arthropoda
Subphylum Crustacea
Class Ostracoda
Order Myodocopida
Family Philomedidae
Philomedidae sp. Indeterminate
Family Cylindroleberididae
Bathyleberis garthi (Baker, 1979)
Cylindroleberididae sp. Indeterminate
Class Copepoda
Order Calanoida
Calanoida sp. Indeterminate
Order Cyclopoida
Cyclopoida sp. Indeterminate
Class Cirripedia
Cirripedia sp. Indeterminate
Order Cumacea
Family Leuconidae
Eudorella emarginata (Kroyer, 1846)
Leucon sp. Indeterminate
Order Isopoda
Family Limnoriidae
Limnoria lignorum (Rathke, 1799)
Order Amphipoda
Amphipoda sp. Indeterminate
Family Oedicerotidae
Monoculodes sp. Indeterminate
Monoculodes zernovi (Gurjanova, 1936)
Family Stenothoidae
Proboloides holmesi (Bousfield, 1982)
Family Phoxocephalidae
Eyakia robustus (Holmes, 1908)
Family Lysianassidae
Anonyx lilljeborgi (Boeck, 1871)
Family Uristidae
Uristidae sp. Indeterminate
Family Ampeliscidae
Ampelisca agassizi (Judd, 1896)
Ampelisca sp. Indeterminate
Family Aoroidae
Aoroides sp. Indeterminate
Family Hippolytidae
Eualus sp. Indeterminate
1-6
-------
Table 1-1. Continued
Family Majidae
Hyas lyratus (Dana, 1851)
Majidae sp. Indeterminate
Family Pinnotheridae
Pinnixa sp. Indeterminate
Phylum Echiura
Order Echiuroinea
Family Echiuridae
Echiuris echiuris (Pallas, 1767)
Phylum Phoronida
Family Phoronidae
Phoronida sp. Indeterminate
Phylum Echinodermata
Class Asteroidea
Order Spinulosida
Family Solasteridae
Crossaster papposus (Linnaeus, 1767)
Class Ophiuroidea
Ophiuroidea sp. Indeterminate
Order DendrochLrotida
Family Cucumariidae
Cucumaria sp. Indeterminate
1-7
-------
Table 1-2. Number of Individual Organisms Found in Sampled Collected from
Akutan Harbor in April 1992 (Stations 1 through 8A)
TAXON
Station
1
2
3
5
6
7
7A
8
8A
Polychaetes
Ampharete acutifrons
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Ampharete finmarchica
0
0
0
7
0
0
0
13
1
Ampharetidae sp. Indet.
2
2
1
4
0
0
0
1
0
Ampharetidae sp. Juv.
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Amphicteis glabra
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Apistobranchus tullbergi
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Armandia brevis
0
2
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Asabellides sibirica
2
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
Barantolla sp. A
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
Boccardia nr. polybranchia
22
0
0
49
4
3
0
4
1
Campesyllis sp.
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Capitella capitata complex
27
32
8
32
33
4
0
7
69
Capitellidae sp. Indet.
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Chaetozone setosa
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
Chone duneri
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Cirratulidae sp. Indet.
0
2
0
0
0
0
0
3
0
Cossura sp. Indet.
1
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
Decamastus gracilis
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
-------
Tabic 1-2. Continued
TAXON
Station
1
2
3
5
6
7
7A
8
8A
Polychaetes, continued
Dorvillea annulata
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Dorvilleidae sp. Juv.
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Ehlersia heterochaeta
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
7
Eteone californica
2
1
5
1
0
0
0
3
3
Euclyroeae reticulata
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Euclymeninae sp. Indet.
6
0
0
9
0
0
0
7
0
Galathowcnia oculata
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
0
Glycinde picta
8
0
0
2
0
3
0
4
5
Glyphanostomum nr. pallescens
59
0
74
38
1
0
0
20
20
Goniada maculata
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Harmothoe imbricata
2
16
0
12
0
0
0
0
0
Hcteromastus filobranchus
6
1
2
4
16
5
0
0
11
Lanassa sp. A
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Leitoscoloplos pugettensis
3
0
0
2
2
1
3
41
2
Lumbrineris bicirrata
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Lumbrineris luti
0
0
0
0
15
2
0
0
4
Lumbrineris sp. Indet.
95
6
10
141
41
20
0
116
37
Lysippe labiata
11
0
0
0
0
0
0
12
0
-------
Table 1-2. Continued
TAXON
Station
1
2
3
5
6
' 7
7A
8
8A
Polychaetes, continued
Magclona longicornis
0
1
0
2
0
0
0
5
5
Maldanidae sp. Indet.
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Mediomastus sp. Indet.
2
0
7
3
5
1
0
0
0
Melinna clisabethae
10
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
Ncoamphitrite edwardsi
3
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Nephtys caeca
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
Nephtys ferruginea
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Nephtys punctata
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Nephtys sp. Indet.
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Ncphtys sp. Juv.
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
Nereis nr. zonata
1
1
0
3
2
1
0
0
1
Notomaslus lineatus
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Onuphis sp. Juv.
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Ophelina acuminata
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Paraonidae sp. Indet.
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Pectinaria granulata
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
8
0
Pholoe minuta
25
108
12
35
24
16
0
19
6
Phyllodoce citrina
1
0
1
0
0
0
0
1
2
-------
Table 1-2. Continued
TAXON
Station
1
2
3
5
6
7
7A
8
8A
Polychaetes, continued
Phyllodoce groenlandica
8
0
2.
5
0
4
0
20
1
Phyllodoce sp. Indet.
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Pista cristata
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Polydora brachycephala
15
6
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
Polydora socialis
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Polydora sp. A
15
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
Polynoidae sp. A
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Polynoidae sp. Indet.
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
Praxillella gracilis
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Prionospio sp. Indet.
1
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
Prionospio steenstrupi
36
7
1
0
0
0
0
16
0
Rhodine bitorquata
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Scalibregma inflatum
1
0
0
7
0
1
0
1
0
Sphaerodoropsis sphaerulifer
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Spio cirrifera
1
0
0
6
7
0
0
0
0
Spionidae sp. Indet.
6
13
3
1
2
0
0
3
0
Spiophanes berkeleyorum
2
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Syllis elongata
15
0
0
1
0
0
0
2
0
-------
Table 1-2. Continued
TAXON
Station
1
2
3
5
6
7
7A
8
8A
Polychaetes, continued
Syllis sp. Indet.
0
0
0
0
7
1
0
0
2
Terebellidae sp. Indet.
1
0
2
0
0
0
0
0
0
Terebellides stroemi
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Travisia forbesii
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Bivalves
Adontorhina cyclia
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Alvania compacta
0
173
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Axinopsida serricata
100
0
3
43
9
27
0
35
14
Bivalvia sp. Juv.
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Clinocardium ciliatum
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
Cylichna attonsa
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
1
0
Hiatella arctica
0
2
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Lacuna vincta
1
93
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Lepeta concentrica
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
Littorina saxitilis
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Macoraa calcarea
35
7
2
26
2
3
0
13
3
Macoma carlottensis
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Macoma moesta alaskana
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
-------
Table 1-2. Continued
TAXON
Station
1
2
3
5
6
7
7A
8
8A
Bivalves, continued
Macoma sp. Juv.
3
0
0
2
0
0
0
0
0
Mallettia sp. Indet.
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Musculus niger
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Mya pseudoarenaria
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Mya sp. Juv.
3
0
0
1
0
0
0
1
0
Mya uzensis
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Mysella tumida
1
12
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Mytilidae sp. Juv.
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
Natica clausa
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Nitidella gouldi
2
0
0
4
0
0
0
1
0
Nucula tenuis
21
2
1
19
5
5
0
18
3
Nuculana minuta
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
1
Odostomia sp. Indet.
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Oenopota harpularia
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
Oenopota elegans
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
0
Pododesmus macroschisma
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Retusa sp. Indet.
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Saxidomus giganteus
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
-------
Table 1-2. Continued
Station
TAXON
1
2
3
5
6
7
7A
8
8A
Bivalves, continued
Serripes groenlandicus .
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
3
0
Thyasira flexuosa
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Turbonilla sp. Indet.
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
4
0
Yoldia hyperborea
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
Yoldia scissurata
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Others
Ampclisca agassizi
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Ampelisca sp Indeterminate
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Amphipoda sp. Indeterminate
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
Anonyx lilljeborgi
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
0
Aoridae sp. Indeterminate
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Bathyleberis garthi
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Calanoida sp. Indet.
2
0
0.
0
0
0
0
0
0
Cirripedia sp. Indet.
0
1
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
Crossaster papposus
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Cucumaria sp. Indet.
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Cyclopoida sp. Indeterminate
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Cylindroleberididae sp. Indet.
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
-------
Table 1-2. Continued
TAXON
Station
1
2
3
5
6
7
7A
8
8A
Others, continued
Echiuris echiuris
0
10
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Eualus sp. Indet.
0
2
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Eudorella emarginata
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
2
0
Eyakia robusta
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
9
0
Foraminifera sp. Indet.
22
5
84
0
0
0
0
15
8
Hyas lyratus
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
1
0
Lcucon sp. Indet.
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Limnoria lignorum
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Majidae sp. Indeterminate
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
Monoculodes sp. Indeterminate
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
1
0
Monoculodes zernovi
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Nematoda sp. Indet.
73
454
3
3
58
0
0
3
62
Nemertinea sp. Indet.
23
0
3
11
9
6
1
24
8
Oligochaeta sp. Indet.
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Ophiuroidea sp. Indet.
2
1
0
2
0
0
0
15
1
Philomedidae sp. Indeterminate
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
Phoronida sp. Indet.
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Pinnixa sp. Indeterminate
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
-------
Table 1-2. Continued
Station
TAXON
1
2
3
5
6
7
7A
8
8A
Others, continued
Priapulus caudatus
1
0
0
0
2
1
0
3
0
Proboloides holmesi
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Urislidac sp. Indeterminate
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
-------
Table 1-3. Number of Individual Organisms Found in Sampled Collected from
Akutan Harbor in April 1992 (Stations 9 through P02)
Taxon
Station
9
10
10A
11
12
13
BPO
POl
P02
Polychaetes
Ampharele acutifrons
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Ampharete finmarchica
1
3
5
0
14
8
2
0
0
Ampharetidae sp. Indet.
5
2
1
0
0
1
0
0
0
Ampharetidae sp. Juv.
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
Amphicteis glabra
1
3
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
Apislobranchus tullbergi
0
0
1
0
2
0
0
0
0
Armandia brevis
0
0
1
1
0
0
1
0
0
Asabellides sibirica
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
5
0
Barantolla sp. A
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Boccardia nr. polybranchia
0
6
29
1
16
6
12
0
0
Campesyllis sp.
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
Capitella capitata complex
12
0
3
0
1
0
4
5
0
Capitellidae sp. Indet.
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
1
0
Chaetozone setosa
0
0
0
3
0
0
3
0
0
Chone duneri
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
Cirratulidae sp. Indet.
4
1
0
0
0
3
0
1
0
Cossura sp. Indet.
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Decamastus gracilis
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
-------
Table 1-3. Continued
Taxon
Station
9
10
10A
11
12
13
BPO
POl
P02
Polychaetes, continued
Dorvillea annulata
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
Dorvilleidae sp. Juv.
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Ehlcrsia heterochaeta
0
2
0
0
0
. 0
1
3
0
Eteonc californica
0
0
2
0
1
1
0
3
0
Euclymene reticulata
0
5
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Euclymeninae sp. Indet.
0
0
13
2
12
10
0
9
0
Galathowenia oculata
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
Glycinde picta
24
3
8
11
21
13
13
8
0
Glyphanostomum nr. pallescens
2
6
14
1
11
17
1
105
0
Goniada maculata
0
0
0
0
2
0
0
0
0
Harmolhoe imbricata
0
1
0
2
1
0
6
4
3
Heteromastus filobranchus
2
1
0
6
0
6
0
12
0
Lanassa sp. A
0
2
1
0
4
0
1
1
0
Leitoscoloplos pugettensis
10
14
12
6
16
0
16
2
0
Lumbrineris bicirrata
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
Lumbrineris luti
20
0
0
0
21
0
9
0
0
Lumbrineris sp. Indet.
0
159
80
54
118
156
28
91
0
Lysippe labiata
0
0
7
3
22
0
0
3
0
-------
Table 1-3. Continued
Taxon
Station
9
10
10A
11
12
13
BPO
POl
P02
Polychaetes, continued
Magelona longicornis
2
3
20
4
15
5
2
0
0
Maldanidae sp. Indet.
2
3
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
Mediomastus sp. Indet.
1
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
0
Melinna elisabethae
0
0
0
0
1
0
1
1
0
Neoamphitrite edwardsi
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
0
0
Nephtys caeca
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
Nephtys ferruginea
1
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
Nephtys punctata
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
Nephtys sp. Indet.
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
Nephtys sp. Juv.
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Nereis nr. zonata
2
11
3
5
5
10
0
0
0
Notomastus lineatus
0
0
5
0
8
0
0
0
0
Onuphis sp. Juv.
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
Ophelina acuminata
1
0
0
0
2
0
0
0
0
Paraonidae sp. Indet.
0
0
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
Pectinaria granulata
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Pholoe mlnuta
14
14
12
24
47
37
17
48
0
Phyllodoce citrina
4
1
1
1
0
0
0
3
0
-------
Table 1-3. Continued
Taxon
Station
9
10
10A
11
12
13
BPO
POl
P02
Polychaetes, continued
Phyllodoce grocnlandica
11
1
5
9
24
5
0
13
0
Phyllodoce sp. Indet.
0
0
0
2
0
0
0
0
0
Pista cristata
0
0
0
0
2
0
0
0
0
Polydora brachycephala
1
6
2
0
1
0
0
0
0
Polydora socialis
0
0
0
0
2
0
0
2
0
Polydora sp. A
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
Polynoidae sp. A
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Polynoidae sp. Indet.
2
0
1
0
0
0
0
4
0
Praxillella gracilis
0
1
1
0
4
0
0
0
0
Prionospio sp. Indet.
0
0
0
0
0
0
2
0
0
Prionospio steenstrupi
0
0
0
0
12
0
93
1
0
Rhodinc bitorquata
0
0
1
0
5
0
0
0
0
Scalibregma inflatum
7
4
0
6
1
2
2
0
0
Sphaerodoropsis sphaerulifer
0
4
0
0
2
7
0
4
0
Spio cirrifera
3
0
2
1
2
0
1
0
0
Spionidae sp. Indet.
1
0
1
2
0
4
0
0
0
Spiophanes berkeleyorum
0
0
2
2
0
0
0
2
0
Syllis elongata
0
0
13
0
8
3
1
3
0
-------
Table 1-3. Continued
Taxon
Station
9
10
10A
11
12
13
BPO
POl
P02
Polychaetes, continued
Syllis sp. Indet.
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
Terebellidae sp. Indet.
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
Terebellides stroemi
0
2
0
0
0
4
0
0
0
Travisia forbesii
0
0
2
0
6
0
0
0
0
Bivalves
Adontorhina cyclia
0
0
2
0
38
1
0
0
0
Alvania compacta
0
0
0
0
1
2
0
0
0
Axinopsida serricata
27
55
136
73
276
113
13
102
0
Bivalvia sp. Juv.
0
0
0
0
0
8
0
0
0
Clinocardium ciliatum
1
0
0
1
2
0
0
1
0
Cylichna attonsa
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
8
0
Hiatella arctica
0
0
1
1
2
2
0
0
0
Lacuna vincta
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Lepeta concentrica
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Littorina saxitilis
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
Macoma calcarea
1
4
3
3
6
4
6
21
0
Macoma carlottensis
1
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
Macoma moesta alaskana
0
0
1
0
1
1
0
0
0
-------
Table 1-3. Continued
Taxon
Station
9
10
10A
11
12
13
BPO
POl
1 P02
Bivalves, continued
Macoma sp. Juv.
5
0
3
8
0
3
0
2
0
Mallettia sp. Indet.
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
Musculus niger
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
Mya pseudoarenaria
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Mya sp. Juv.
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
1
0
Mya uzcnsis
0
0
0
0
2
0
0
0
0
Mysclla tumida
0
0
0
0
0
0
3
0
0
Mytilidae sp. Juv.
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Natica clausa
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
Nitidella gouldi
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Nucula tenuis
18
24
19
10
35
95
0
15
1
Nuculana minuta
1
18
2
3
6
38
0
1
0
Odostomia sp. Indet.
0
0
0
0
1
5
0
0
0
Oenopota harpularia
0
0
1
0
1
0
0
0
0
Oenopota elegans
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Pododesmus macroschisma
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Retusa sp. Indet.
0
0
0
2
1
4
0
0
0
Saxidomus gigantcus
0
0
0
0
4
0
0
0
0
-------
Table 1-3. Continued
Taxon
Station
9
10
10A
11
12
13
BPO
POl
P02
Bivalves, continued
Serripes groenlandicus
0
1
0
1
0
3
3
1
0
Thyasira flexuosa
0
0
1
0
1
0
0
0
0
Turbonilla sp. Indet.
0
0
3
0
1
3
0
0
0
Yoldia hypcrborea
1
0
1
0
1
6
0
2
0
Yoldia scissurata
0
0
0
0
0
2
0
0
0
Others
Ampelisca agassizi
0
0
0
0
3
0
0
0
0
Ampelisca sp Indeterminate
0
0
0
0
3
0
0
0
0
Amphipoda sp. Indeterminate
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Anonyx lilljeborgi
0
0
1
0
1
0
0
0
0
Aoridac sp. Indeterminate
0
0
1
0
2
2
0
0
0
Bathyleberis garthi
0
0
0
0
4
0
0
0
0
Calanoida sp. Indet.
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Cirripedia sp. Indet.
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Crossaster papposus
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
Cucumaria sp. Indet.
0
0
0
2
0
0
0
0
0
Cyclopoida sp. Indeterminate
0
2
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Cylindroleberididae sp. Indet.
0
0
0
1
0
2
0
0
0
-------
Table 1-3. Continued
Taxon
Station
9
10
10A
11
12
13
BPO
POl
P02
Other, continued
Echiuris echiuris
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Eualus sp. Indet.
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Eudorella emarginata
0
0
2
2
3
2
0
0
0
Eyakia robusta
0
0
0
1
3
1
1
0
0
Foraminifera sp. Indet.
0
2
12
11
6
5
67
12
0
Hyas lyratus
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Leucon sp. Indet.
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Limnoria lignorum
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Majidae sp. Indeterminate
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Monoculodes sp. Indeterminate
0
0
0
2
0
0
0
1
0
Monoculodes zernovi
3
1
0
2
0
4
0
0
0
Nematoda sp. Indet.
2
7
20
8
37
47
8
10
0
Ncmertinea sp. Indet.
3
10
18
1
6
1
19
33
0
Oligochaeta sp. Indet.
0
0
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
Ophiuroidea sp. Indet.
0
4
0
0
0
4
2
1
0
Philomedidae sp. Indeterminate
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
Phoronida sp. Indet.
0
0
0
0
1
0
0
1
0
Pinnixa sp. Indeterminate
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
-------
Table 1-3. Continued
Station
Taxon
9
10
10A
11
12
13
BPO
POl
P02
Other, continued
Priapulus caudatus
1
1
0
0
0
0
0
4
0
Proboloides holmesi
0
0
1
0
0
0
0
0
0
Uristidae sp. Indeterminate
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
0
-------
Appendix J. Underwater Video Information
-------
LOG OF REMOTELY OPERATED VEHICLE
VIDEOTAPED OBSERVATIONS
The following is a summary log of videotaped observations made during ROV surveys
of Akutan Harbor, April 11 to 13, 1992. It describes transect locations, timing, and depths.
This log is intended to be used with a VHS format videotape, 140 min long. The tape was
prepared from 340 min of raw 8 mm tape by editing and removing elements not directly
related to the bottom survey, such as clear water views of descents and ascents, or footage
obscured by thruster propeller turbulence.
ROV-1
• Location: Outer Harbor, south shore. Suspected site of crab or fish waste piles.
Depth, 160 ft.
• Coordinates: Miniranger - chain: 2,381; offset: 1,677.
• April 11, 1651 hrs (ADT) at beginning of transect.
• Start of tape, 17 min long.
This transect was located near the outside of the harbor, near the south shore, at a
depth ranging from 159 to 161 ft. A preliminary analysis of the SSS printouts showed this
site had an uneven topography, indicating possible deposition of crab or fish processing
wastes.
The bottom terrain was hummocky, sometimes with rolling features, 6 in to 2 ft high.
Sediments were fine, silty sand. A layer of suspended particles hung 2 to 4 ft over the
bottom. This turbid layer appeared to be due to bottom currents in the area, because
particles were swept by the stationary ROV. There was a small amount of litter along this
transect including aluminum cans and a cardboard box. Crab processing debris was either
absent or very sparse, with occasional scattered whole dead crabs (or crab molts).
The parchment or paper-like burrows of tube worms (probably Glyphanostomum)
were moderately abundant. Densities ranged from 20 to 50 burrows per square foot. An
aeolid nudibranch was also common, mainly in association with tube worms, with densities
of up to 5 per square foot.
Larger invertebrate and fish fauna were uncommon. They included sea anemones
(Metridium and possibly Anthopleura), one flatfish, a small greenling, and the large
Pycnopodia starfish (about 10 in wide).
J-l
-------
Aside from widely scattered debris, there was no evidence of crab and fish waste.
This site shows little or no impact due to fish processing in the harbor.
ROV-2
© Location: Inner Harbor, north shore. At the old Trident Seafoods outfall.
Depth, 150 ft.
® Coordinates: Miniranger - chain: 7,222; offset: -534.
o April 11, 1844 hrs at beginning of transect.
« 17 min into tape, 9-1/2 min long.
This transect was located near the old Trident Seafoods outfall on the north shore
of the inner harbor at a depth of 150 ft.
There was no mounding or topographic relief and the entire bottom appeared to be
covered with fish waste. The surface layer was very soft, and a leadline placed on the
bottom to guide the ROV was buried about 1 in into the fish waste. The waste had a jelly-
like to stringy consistency and appeared to be covered with a thin layer of bacteria (probably
Beggiatoa). The bottom was easily disturbed and bubbles of gas (probably methane and/or
hydrogen sulfide) rose from the surface when it was disturbed by the ROV. There was little
near bottom turbidity, and no current-induced motion of suspended particles was seen in
relation to the ROV.
No benthic infauna was visible. Animal life only occurred on rocks or debris that
rose above bottom. For example, large debris (i.e., a 5 gal can, anchor, and crab pot) were
colonized with the large white anemone Metridium senile. No fish waste had collected on
the cans, rocks, etc., possibly indicating a low rate of deposition or consistent sweeping of
this area by water currents.
The benthic community in this area has been eliminated by the deposition of fish
processing wastes. Water quality (at least dissolved oxygen), however, immediately above
the intact waste pile does not appear to be significantly impacted.
ROV-3
» Location: Inner Harbor, south shore. Deep Sea Fisheries anchorage area,
bottom and crab waste north of vessel. Depth, 83 ft.
o April 12, 1107 hrs at beginning of transect.
• 27-1/2 min into tape, 13 min long.
J-2
-------
This station was located on the south shore of the inner harbor in the M/V Deep Sea
anchorage area at a depth of 80 to 90 ft. The bottom and crab waste pile immediately north
of the M/V Deep Sea and TNT barge were surveyed.
The bottom north of the TNT barge was very uneven and composed of a mix of fine
sediments and miscellaneous fishing-related debris, such as tires, old traps, cable, etc. Huge
numbers of the sea anemone Metridium senile were attached to the bottom or onto any of
the available hard surfaces. These grew in a wide range of sizes and formed up to a 25 to
50% cover in some areas near the barge. Colonies of finely branching hydroids and
bryozoans were also common here.
Farther to the east, north of the M/V Deep Sea, and at a depth of 80 ft, the ROV
was over the crab pile. Crab waste was coarsely ground and formed a mounded layer.
Anemones grew on the surface of the crab waste pile, but were not as abundant as seen off
the TNT. Anemone coverage was 1 to 5% of the total bottom cover.
Crab waste and debris disposal have eliminated most of the soft-bottom benthic
community. Opportunistic filter-feeding organisms (such as anemones) have been enhanced,
particularly in areas set off from the main areas of crab waste deposition.
ROV-4
• Location: Inner Harbor, south shore. Deep Sea Fisheries anchorage area,
bottom on south side of vessel. Depth, 80 to 90 ft.
• April 12, 1246 hrs at beginning of transect.
- • 40-1/2 min into tape, 13-1/2 min long.
- This transect was in the same general location as ROV-3, surveying the bottom
beneath and south of the M/V Deep Sea. There was a high turbidity layer 2 to 4 ft above
the bottom, and bubbles were seen rising from the crab waste pile. The water depth at the
crab pile was 90 ft.
The survey continued at a water depth of 79 ft south of the M/V Deep Sea. The
bottom was smooth and anemones (Metridium) were growing on any solid surfaces that rose
above the bottom. Mysid shrimp (molts or dead animals) formed a 1 to 2 in layer over
much of the bottom. Only larger sections of crab carapaces and legs were seen.
Shrimp and crab waste cover was largely absent south of the M/V Deep Sea's
freshwater pipeline (at 84 ft deep). At a water depth of 73 ft, bottom sediments shifted
from predominantly fine grained materials to a mix of fines and small cobbles. There was
a dense, but patchy, cover by tubes of the polychaete Glyphanostomum (hundreds per square
foot). Metridium and the starfish Pycnopodia were also common.
J-3
-------
Site conditions varied widely on this transect. The area near the M/V Deep Sea was
a settling environment as suggested by large numbers of mysid shrimp molts. This area was
also heavily impacted by crab waste. Habitat conditions near shore were unaffected by
waste deposition, but high densities of polychaete worms indicated nutrient enrichment was
occurring.
ROV-5
® Location: Inner Harbor, south shore. Proposed site of Deep Sea Fisheries
outfall. Depth, 110 to 20 ft.
• Coordinates: Satellite - 54° 7.01' N, 165° 48.57' W; Miniranger - chain: 10,846;
offset: 1,115.
© April 12, 1414 hrs at beginning of transect.
o 54 min into tape, 21 min long.
Located on the south shore of the inner harbor, this transect surveyed the proposed
site of the Deep Sea Fisheries outfall and areas near the abandoned whaling station.
The transect began at a water depth of 110 ft, 400 to 500 ft offshore from the whaling
station, and continued toward the southern shore of the harbor.
Fine silty sediments dominated the bottom cover, along with a great deal of shell
debris and drift algae. There were thick patches of tube worms, bryozoans, and occasional
live mysid shrimp and starfish. Tube worm density was slightly lower than the coverage seen
south of the M/V Deep Sea. Anemones (densities about 1 per m2) were attached directly
to the bottom or to rocks on the bottom.
Large rocks and debris cover (i.e., cable, pipe, old pots) increased toward the south
at depths above 100 ft. Shell debris also became more common. At a water depth of 57 ft
the bottom had become very rocky with anemones, bryozoans, and hydroids attached to
anything elevated above the bottom. Alaria and other algae were common. Some were
probably attached, but most seemed to be drift algae.
The bottom was very irregular and massive amounts of large debris (crab pots, large
pipe, etc.) were seen at a water depth of 40 ft. This material was colonized with anemones,
but at much lower densities than on ROV-3 and ROV-4. The sunflower seastar Pycnopodia
helianthoides was also common.
Above 40 ft to a depth of 10 ft (the shallowest depth surveyed), bottom sediments
appeared to consist of mixed sand, gravel, and large cobble, along with occasional metal
debris. Clam and mussel shell debris and large gravel dominated the sediment mix in some
areas, while other locations on the transect had more large rock and cobble cover.
J-4
-------
Attached algae were common and in some areas covered up to 25% of the bottom.
They were dominated by Ulva, Alaria, and Laminaria. Also seen were starfish, blennies or
pricklebacks, and sculpins. Anemones were much less abundant than at lower elevations.
This transect offered a good cross section of the biological communities in the
harbor, from deeper bottoms to the shallow subtidal. With the exception of the metal waste
and other remnants of the whaling station, this area appeared to show no effects from fish
and crab processing.
ROV-6
• Location: Inner Harbor, north shore. Trident Seafoods old outfall. Depth,
150 ft. Repeat of transect 2.
• April 12, 1515 hrs at beginning of transect.
• 1 hr 15 min into tape, 16 min long.
This transect began immediately north of ROV-2 in about 150 ft of water.
Conditions at the beginning of the transect were similar to ROV-2; however, the waste layer
changed dramatically as the machine swam north. The rather uniform bacteria-covered
surface of the waste pile began to take on a pockmarked or mottled appearance. The
leadline was never located, and it was apparently buried and covered by the waste material.
Pools of a grayish liquid or semi-liquid substance filled the depressions. These pools were
6 in to a foot in diameter, and some were interconnected. When one of the pools was
disturbed by the ROV, a density difference could be observed between the material in the
pool and surrounding water. The water above the waste pile was clear, with none of the
particle motion such as seen on ROV-1. The surface was more compact and less easily
disturbed by the ROV, and the material raised from the bottom was stringy and plastic. No
large invertebrate or fish organisms were seen.
This portion of the harbor floor is highly altered from natural conditions and supports
no benthic fauna. The waste pile appears to be a slowly decomposing but long-term feature
of the bottom landscape.
ROV-7
• Location: Inner Harbor, north shore. M/V Clipperton crab pile on north side
of vessel and bottom areas on south side of vessel. Depth, 118 ft.
• Coordinates: Satellite - 54° 7.80' N, 165° 48.79' W; Miniranger - chain: 11,647;
offset: 61.
J-5
-------
o April 12, 1755 hrs at beginning of transect.
© 1 hr 31 min into tape,.22 min long.
Two separate transect lines were run in the middle of the inner harbor north and
south of the M/V Clipperton at a water depth of 118 ft. North of the M/V Clipperton the
bottom was covered with ground crab waste (and a surprising number of rubber bands).
The bottom was easily disturbed by the ROV, but there was very little turbidity and the
water was clear. All the crab waste was well ground.
There were no tube worms or other similar bottom fauna, and no anemones.
Amphipods were abundant; up to 20 were seen in some scenes. This condition continued
farther east on the crab pile, where some larger waste (whole carapaces and legs) was seen.
South of the M/V Clipperton, there was a scattered and light cover of crab waste,
mostly consisting of carapace and leg portions (along with more rubber bands). Crab waste
made up less than 5% of the total bottom cover, and there was no evidence of ground crab
shell. Sediments were fine grained and silty, and formed into low hummocks. Patches of
the bacteria Beggiaioa occurred infrequently. Tube worm density (probably
Gfyphanostomum) was high, although the density was less than half that seen at the
M/V Deep Sea transect (ROV-4). Farther from the M/V Clipperton, tube worm burrow
height and density increased; however, coverage was patchy. Amphipods were common, and
in some instances densities were similar to those seen on the crab waste pile north of the
M/V Clipperton. Other animal life included a small nudibranch (probably an aeolid), seen
on many of the worm tubes, and anemones.
The M/V Clipperton crab waste discharge has had a substantial impact on the
bottom fauna north of the vessel, but little obvious effect to the south.
ROV-8
© Location: Outer Harbor, midchannel. Open water area, lightly impacted by
crab or fish waste. Depth, 150 ft.
o Coordinates: Satellite - 54° 7.65' N, 165° 46.34' W.
e April 13, 0950 hrs at beginning of transect.
o 1 hr 53 min into tape, 8-1/2 min long.
This transect was located in a central harbor area due south of the Akutan
community center at a depth of 150 to 158 ft. It was intended to survey the bottom outside
the major zone of influence of the shore-based processors, but in an area used by ship-based
processors.
J-6
-------
Many features of this transect were similar to ROV-1. Bottom sediments appeared
to be fine silts with mounds up to 1 ft in height dominating the topography. Wave-like
patterns were also visible. These waves were 2 to 6 in high, and paralleled a line angled
at approximately 330° north (magnetic). There was a slight to moderate quantity of
unground whole crab waste. Much of this waste was surrounded by patches of the surface-
dwelling bacterium Beggiatoa', with bacterial coverage generally less than 1% of the total
bottom cover.
Tube worm burrows were very common, although the tubes were shorter than at the
Deep Sea outfall. The distribution was patchy and similar to that at ROV-1 and ROV-5.
Thick patches of tube worms were encountered, colonized with numerous nudibranchs.
Other macrofauna included amphipods, unidentified smaller zooplankton, and the anemone
Metridium.
Approximately half of the bottom area covered by the ROV appeared to be directly
impacted, by bacteria and shell waste.
ROV-9
• Location: Inner Harbor, north shore. Moving from dock toward Trident
Seafoods' new outfall. Depth, 72 to 110 ft.
• April 13, 1026 hrs at beginning of transect.
• 2 hr 1-1/2 min into tape, 14-1/2 min long.
This transect began in 72 ft of water and 150 ft west of the Trident Seafoods dock.
It followed the new outfall line to the discharge port at 110 ft. The line was not discharging
during the survey. A layer of screened fish or crab waste covered 100% of the bottom
except where large debris or the pipeline was elevated above the surface. The waste was
piled up level with the outfall pipe (8 to 10 in deep). All of the waste appeared to be
lighter and more easily disturbed than the material seen in ROV-2 and ROV-6, and fine
particles were suspended in the water. Great numbers of red oligochaete worms occurred
in loose aggregations 2 to 8 inches in diameter, and small numbers of amphipods were also
seen.
Trident Seafoods' crab and fish waste deposits have eliminated the soft-bottom
benthos; however, this area still supports some biota in the form of oligochaete worms.
ROV-10
• Location: Inner Harbor, north shore. Trident Seafoods old outfall. 200 ft south
of transect 9. Depth, 133 ft.
J-7
-------
• April 13, 1046 hrs at beginning of transect.
• 2 hr 16 min into tape, 4 min long.
This transect began about 200 ft south of ROV-9 at a depth of 133 ft. Waste
deposits covered 100% of the bottom and appeared to be older and thicker than the
material seen in ROV-9. The bottom features ranged from the conditions seen in ROV-9
to the decomposed conditions of ROV-6. There were occasional oligochaete worm masses,
grading to entirely abiotic materials on the southern extent of this transect.
J-8
-------
Appendix K. Results of Plume Modeling
-------
Table K-l. UM Model Input and Output for the Maximum-Rated Capacity,
Winter Discharge Scenario
Model Parameters
tot flow
/ ports
port flow
spacing
effl sal
0.4294
1
0.4294
1000
37.32
port dep
port dia
plume dia
total vel
horiz vel
24.4
0.3048
0.3048
5.885
0.000
port elev
ver angle
cont coef
effl den
poll cone
6.1
90
1
30.00
439
hor angle
red space
p amb den
p current
far dif
90
1000.0
22.67
0.05120
0.000453
depth
current
density
salinity
temp
0
0.1
22.45
28. 85
8.2
25
0.05
22.68
29.1
8
30
0.05
22. 68
29.1
8
30
effl temp far inc far dis
0 50 1000
vertl vel asp coeff print frq
5.885 0.10 50
decay Froude / Roberts F
0 -40.35 0.001365
far vel K:vel/cur Stratif t
0.05 114.9-0.0003707
amb cone N (freq) red grav.
0 0.009245 -0.06978
0 buoy flux puff-ther
0 -0.02996 16.09
jet-plume jet-cross
11. 58
31.05
plu-cross jet-strat
223.3 13.11
plu-strat
13.95
hor dis>=
Initial Dilution Calculations
plume dep
plume dia
effl sal
poll cone
dilution
hor dis
m
m
o/oo
m
24.40
0.3048
37.32
439.0
1.000
0.000
24.08
0.4302
34.91
310.4
1.417
0.0005847
23.64
0.6092
33.21
219. 5
2.007
0.003397
23.00
0.8634
32.00
155.2
2.841
0.01144
22 .11
1.225
31.14
109.8
4.021
0.03124
20.83
1.744
30.53
77.61
5.690
0.07713
19.02
2 . 500
30.10
54.88
8.050
0.1816
16.48
3.640
29.79
38.80
11.39
0.4178
13 . 37
5.473
29. 55
27.44
16.11
0.9075
10.48
8.654
29.38
19.40
22.78
1.753
9.745
10. 39
29.33
16.89
26.17
2.116
< plume element overlap.
-------
Table K-l. Continued
Farfield Calculations
'ar f ield
dispersion
based on
wastefield
width of
10.39m
— 4/3
Power Law-
¦- -Const
Eddy Diff-
cone
dilution
conc
dilution
distance
Time
ra
sec
hrs
10.17
43.4
12.79
34.5
50. 00
957 .7
0.3
5.909
74.5
9.890
44.6
100.0
1958
0.5
3.960
111.0
8. 329
52.9
150.0
2558
0.8
2 . 887
152 .2
7.327
60.1
200.0
3958
1.1
2 . 225
197 . 5
6.614
66.6
250.0
4958
1.4
1. 782
246.5
6.075
72.4
300.0
5958
1.7
1.469
299.1
5. 650
77 . 9
350.0
6958
1.9
1. 238
354 .9
5. 303
83.0
400.0
7958
2 . 2
1 . 061
413.8
5.012
87.8
450.0
8958
2 . 5
0.9227
476.0
4. 765
92.3
500.0
9958
2.8
0.8122
540.7
4.551
96. 6
550.0
10960
3.0
0.7221
608.1
4.364
100.8
600.0
11960
3.3
0.6476
678.1
4.198
104.8
650.0
12960
3 . 6
0.5850
750.6
4.049
108. 6
700.0
13960
3.9
0.5319
825 . 5
3.915
112.3
750.0
14960
4.2
0.4864
902 .8
3.794
115.9
800.0
15960
4.4
0.4470
982 .3
3.683
119. 4
850.0
16960
4.7
0.4126
1064.1
3. 581
122.8
900.0
17960
5.0
0.3825
1148.0
3.488
126. 1
950.0
18960
5.3
0.3558
1233 .9
3.401
129. 3
1000
19960
5.5
-------
Table K-2. UM Model Input and Output for the Maximum Estimated Production,
Winter Discharge Scenario
Model Parameters
tot flow
t ports
port flow
spacing
effl sal
effl temp
far inc
far dis
0.4677
1
0.4677
1000
37. 32
0
50
1000
port dep
port dia
plume dia
total vel
horiz vel
vertl vel
asp coeff
print frq
24.4
0. 3048
0.3048
6.410
0.000
6.410
0.10
50
port elev
ver angle
cont coef
effl den
poll cone
decay
Froude /
Roberts F
6.1
90
1
30.00
439
0
-43.95
0.001253
hor angle
red space
p amb den
p current
far dif
far vel
K: vel/cur
Stratif #
90
1000.0
22.67
0.05120
0.000453
0.05
125.2-
-0.0003707
depth
current
density
salinity
temp
amb cone
N (freq)
red grav.
0
0.1
22.45
28.85
8.2
0
0.009245
-0.06978
25
0.05
22.68
29. 1
8
0
buoy flux
puf f-ther
30
0.05
22 . 68
29. 1
8
0
-0.03264
17. 52
30
jet-plume
jet-cross
12.61 33.82
plu-cross jet-strat.
243.2 13.68
plu-strat
14.26
hor dis>=
Initial Dilution Calculations
plume dep
plume dia
effl sal
poll cone
dilution
hor dis
m
m
o/oo
m
24 . 40
0.3048
37.32
439.0
1.000
0.000
24.08
0.4301
34.91
310.4
1.417
0.0005367
23 . 64
0.6091
33.21
219.5
2.007
0.003118
23.00
0.8630
32.00
155.2
2.841
0.01049
22 .11
1.224
31.14
109.8
4.021
0.02864
20.84
1.741
30.53
77.61
5.690
0.07060
19.03
2.490
30.10
54.88
8.050
0.1657
16.47
3.607
29.79
38.80
11.39
0.3812
13.22
5.369
29.55
27.44
16.11
0.8364
9.948
8.380
29.38
19.40
22.78
1.668
8. 590
11.13
29.30
15. 65
28.25
2.281
< plume element overlap.
-------
Table K-2. Continued
Farfield Calculations
rarfield
dispersion
based on
wastefield
width of
11.
13m
—4/3
Power Law-
— -Const
Eddy Diff-
cone
dilution
conc
dilution
distance
Time
m
sec
hrs
9.708
45.4
12.03
36.7
50.00
954.4
0.3
5.711
77.1
9.339
47.2
100.0
1954
0.5
3 .851
114.2
7.875
55.9
150.0
2954
0.8
2 .819
155.9
6.932
63.5
200.0
3954
1.1
2 .178
201.7
6.261
70.3
250.0
4954
1.4
1.748
251.4
5.752
76.5
300.0
5954
1.7
1. 443
304. 5
5. 351
82.2
350. 0
6954
1.9
1.217
360.9
5.023
87.6
400.0
7954
2.2
1.045
420.5
4. 748
92. 7
450.0
8954
2 . 5
0.9093
483.0
4. 514
97.5
500.0
9954
2.8
0.8005
548. 6
4.311
102.0
550.0
10950
3.0
0.7121
616.7
4. 134
106.4
600. 0
11950
3.3
0.6389
687.3
3.977
110.6
650.0
12950
3.6
0.5774
760. 5
3.837
114.6
700.0
13950
3.9
0.5252
836. 1
3.710
118. 5
750.0
14950
4.2
0.4804
914. 1
3. 595
122.3
800.0
15950
4.4
0.4416
994. 3
3. 490
126.0
850. 0
16950
4.7
0.4078
1076.8
3. 394
129. 5
900.0
17950
5.0
0.3780
1161.4
3. 305
133.0
950. 0
18950
5 . 3
0.3518
1248.2
3.223
136.4
1000
19950
5 . 5
-------
Table K-3. UM Model Input and Output for the Maximum Rated Capacity,
Summer Discharge Scenario
Mouel Parameters
tot flow
# ports
port flow
spacing
effl sal
effl temp
far inc
far dis
0.2085
1
0.2085
1000
37.32
0
50
1000
port dep
port dia
plume dia
total vel
horiz vel
vertl vel
asp coeff
print frq
24.4
0.3048
0.3048
2.858
0.000
2.858
0.10
50
port elev
ver angle
cont coef
effl den
poll cone
decay
Froude #
Roberts F
6. 1
90
1
30.00
814
0
-19.59
0.002812
hor angle
red space
p amb den
p current
far dif
far vel
K:vel/cur
Stratif #
90
1000.0
22.67
0.05120
0.000453
0.05
55.81-
¦0.0003707
depth
current
density
salinity
temp
amb cone
N (freq)
red grav.
0
0.1
22.45
28.85
8.2
0
0.009245
-0.06978
25
0.05
22 . 68
29.1
8
0
buoy flux
puf f-ther
30
0.05
22 . 68
29.1
8
0
-0.01455
7.811
30
jet-plume
jet-cross
5.622
15.08
plu-cross
jet-strat
108.4
9.137
plu-strat
11.65
hor dis>=
Initial Dilution Calculations
plume dep
plume dia
effl sal
poll cone
dilution
hor dis
m
m
o/oo
m
24. 40
0.3048
37.32
814.0
1.000
0.000
24.08
0.4307
34.91
575. 6
1.417
0.001207
23. 63
0.6115
33.21
407.0
2.007
0.007042
23.00
0.8711
32 .00
287.8
2.841
0.02391
22.09
1.250
31.14
203. 5
4.021
0.06642
20. 80
1.823
30.53
143.9
5. 690
0.1689
19. 15
2. 760
30.10
101.8
8.050
0.3967
17. 51
4. 485
29.79
71.95
11.39
0.8273
17. 11
5.434
29.69
63.07
12.99
1.011
< plume element overlap.
-------
Table K-3. Continued
Farfield Calculations
Farfield dispersion based on wastefield width of
--4/3 Power Law— -Const Eddy Diff-
5.434m
m
sec
hrs
27 . 52
29. 7
40.85
20.0
50.00
979.8
0.3
14.32
56.9
30.70
26.6
100.0
1980
0.5
9. 100,
89. 5
25.
31.9
150.0
2980
0.8
6.426
126.8
22.39
36.4
200.0
3980
1.1
4.846
168. 1
20. 15
40.5
250.0
4980
1.4
3 . 822
213. 1
18.47
44.1
300.0
5980
1.7
3. 112
261. 7
17.15
47.5
350.0
6980
1. 9
2 . 599
313.3
16.08
50.7
400.0
7980
2.2
2 . 212
368. 0
15. 19
53.7
450.0
8980
2.5
1.913
425 . 6
14.43
56.5
500. 0
9980
2 . 8
1. 676
485. 8
13.77
59.2
550.0
10980
3.0
1. 484
548. 7
13.20
61.8
600.0
11980
3.3
1. 326
614 . 1
12.69
64.2
650.0
12980
3.6
1.194 ¦
681.8
12.24
66.6
700.0
13980
3.9
1. 083
751. 9
11.83
68.9
750.0
14980
4.2
0.9876
824 . 3
11.46
71.1
800.0
15980
4.4
0.9057
898.8
11. 12
73.3
850. 0
16980
4.7
0.8345
975. 5
10.81
75.4
900.0
17980
5.0
0.7722
1054.2
10. 53
77.4
950.0
18980
5.3
0.7173
1134.9
10.27
79.4
1000
19980
5. 5
-------
Table K-4. UM Model Input and Output for the Maximum Estimated Production,
Summer Discharge Scenario
Model Parameters
tot flow
# ports
port flow
spacing
effl sal
effl temp
far inc
far dis
0.2615
1
0.2615
1000
37.32
0
50
1000
port dep
port dia
plume dia
total vel
horiz vel
vertl vel
asp coeff
print frq
24.4
0.3048
0.3048
3. 584
0.000
3.584
0.10
50
port elev
ver angle
cont coef
effl den
poll cone
decay
Froude #
Roberts F
6.1
90
1
30.00
814
0
-24.57
0.002242
hor angle
red apace
p amb den
p current
far dif
far vel
K:vel/cur
Stratif t
90
1000.0
22.67
0.05120
0.000453
0.05
70.00-
¦0.0003707
depth
current
density
salinity
temp
amb cone
N (freq)
red grav.
0
0.1
22 .45
28.85
8.2
0
0.009245
-0.06978
25
0.05
22 . 68
29.1
8
0
buoy flux
puf f-ther
30
0.05
22 . 68
29.1
8
0
-0.01825
9.796
30
jet-plume
jet-cross
7.051 18.91
plu-cross jet-strat
136.0 10.23
plu-strat
12. 33
hor dis>=
Initial Dilution Calculations
plume dep
plume dia
effl sal
poll cone
dilution
hor dis
m
m
o/oo
m
24.40
0.3048
37.32
814.0
1.000
0.000
24. 08
0.4304
34.91
575. 6
1.417
0.0009612
23. 64
0.6104
33.21
407.0
2 .007
0.005597
23.00
0.8673
32.00
287.8
2 .841
0.01893
22. 10
1.238
31.14
203. 5
4.021
0.05215
20.81
1.783
30.53
143.9
5.690
0.1311
19.03
2.626
30.10
101.8
8.050
0.3125
16.93
4.052
29.79
71.95
11.39
0.6904
15. 27
6.615
29.56
50.88
16. 11
1.279
15.25
6.678
29.55
50.52
16. 22
1.290
< plume element overlap.
-------
Table K-4. Continued
Farfield Calculations
Farfield dispersion based on wastefield width of 6.678m
--4/3 Power Law— -Const Eddy Diff-
cone
dilution
cone
. dilution
distance
Time
m
sec
hrs
24.61
33.2
34.47
23.7
50.00
974.2
0.3
13.25
61.5
26.12
31.3
100.0
1974
0.5
8. 551
95.3
21.83
37.4
150.0
2974
0.8
6.097
133.6
19.13
42.7
200.0
3974
1.1
4. 627
176.0
17.23
47.3
250.0
4974
1.4
3. 665
222.2
15.81
51.6
300.0
5974
1.7
2.996
271.8
14.68
55.6
350.0
6974
1.9
2. 507
324.8
13.77
59.2
400.0
7974
2 . 2
2. 139
380. 7
13.01
62.7
450.0
8974
2.5
1. 852
439. 5
12.36
66.0
500.0
9974
2.8
1. 625
501. 1
11.80
69.1
550.0
10970
3.0
1. 440
565.3
11.31
72.1
600.0
11970
3.3
1. 288
632.0
10.88
75.0
650.0
12970
3.6
1. 161
701. 1
10.49
77.7
700.0
13970
3.9
1.054
772 . 6
10.14
80.4
750.0
14970
4.2
0.9619
846.4
9.823
83.0
800.0
15970
4.4
0.8826
922.4
9.534
85. 5
850.0
16970
4.7
0.8137
1000.5
9.269
87.9
900.0
17970
5.0
0.7533
1080.7
9.02 6
90.3
950.0
18970
5.3
0.7000
1163.0
8.800
92.6
1000
19970
5.5
-------
Appendix L. Results of Dispersion Modeling
-------
11 111 I
I I
&
1 Hour
A
2 Hours
I I I I I I
I I
*
3 Hours
I I I I I I
I I
¥
A
4 Hours
Note: 0.5 Inch = 40,000 trace units
Figure L-1. Simulated Dispersion of Effluent from the Proposed Outfall Site During a 4-Hour, 20 m/s
West Wind Event
-------
r
i
t-O
1 Hour
I I I I I I
I I
%
2 Hours
I
I . .
I
3 Hours
i
4 Hours
Note: 0.5 Inch = 40,000 trace units
Figure L-2. Simulated Dispersion of Effluent from the Proposed Outfall Site During a 4-Hour, 20 m/s
East Wind Event
-------
n
i
U)
; *
1 Hour
i*
2 Hours
I I
I
3 Hours
4 Hours
Note: 0.5 Inch = 40,000 trace units
Figure L-3. Simulated Dispersion of Effluent from Alternative Outfall Site 1 During a 4-Hour, 20 m/s
West Wind Event
-------
1 1 1 1 1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 ¥ 1
i A i
i i
- i i
i i
i i
i i
i i
i i
i i
i i
i i
i i
' i i
i i
i i
i •
t i
i i
i 11
i i
i i
i i
i i
• i 1111
i i
i i
1* i
i f
i i
• i
i i
i i
i i
i i
i i
i i
i i
i i
• •
i i
i i
i i
i i
i i
i 11
i i
i i
i i
i i
1 1 1 1 1 I
'a 1
i • . •
i ¦
• i
i i
i i
« i
i i
i i
i i
i i
i i
i i
i i
i i
i i
t i
i i
i i i
i i
i i
i i
l i
1 l . . 1
• , . 1
1 1
1 1
t I
1 1
1 1
I 1
1 1
• l
1 1
• l
1 1
1 l
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1 1
1 1
• 1
1 1
1 1
• i
i i
i i
i 11
• •
i i
i i
i i
i i
i i
i i
i i
i 11
i i
i i
• 11 i i
i i
i i
t i
i i
111 11 i
B 1
! 1 Hour !
i i
i i
i i
i i
i 11
• •
i i
i i
i i
i i
i i
• i
i i
i 11
i i
111 i i
i i
i i
i i
i i
111 11 i
e i
l 1
2 Hours I
I ¦
i i
l i
i i
i * *
i a
i i
i i
i i
i •
l i
i i
i ¦
• i ¦
t ¦
a i a i *
i i
i i
i i
• t
lllll 1
a i
a i
3 Hours !
• 1
1 1
• 1
f l
1 1 1
• t
1 1
1 l
1 l
1 I
1 I
1 1
1 1 •
1 1
• 1
• 1 1 1 1
1 |
I |
1 |
1 i
I i a i i i
a i
f i
i 4 Hours !
Note: 0.5 Inch = 40,000 trace units
Figure L-4. Simulated Dispersion of Effluent from Alternative Outfall Site 1 During a 4-Hour, 20 m/s
East Wind Event
-------
11 11 1 1
1 •
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
* '•
1 »
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 •
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1 1 1 M
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
• 1
*
1 I
1 1
1 1
1 1
1
1
• •
I 1
1 1 f 1 1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
* :•
i i
i i
i. i
i . i
i i
i . i
•. i
i. i
1 1 1 1 1 1
1 •
1 1
1 I
1 1
1 1
I 1
1 1
I 1
1 1
%
I •
1 1
• . ¦
¦ , ¦
I •
1 . 1
1 I
1 1
1 t
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 11
1 1
1 1
• 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 11
f 0
1 1
1 1
1 t
1 1
1 1
1 »
1 1
1 1 1
1 1
I 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1 1
1 1
| 1
1 1
1 t
1 1
| 1
1 1
| 1
1 1 ¦
1 1
1 1
1 1
« 1
1 1
1 1
1 »
1 >
I 1 '
1 1
i i
1 9
• 1
1 1
1 1 1
• 1
1 t
1 t
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1 1
I 1
1 1
1 1
1 t
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 • I
• 1
l l
1 1
I 1
1 1
1 • l
I I
1 1
V •
« 1
1 1
1 1
t i
i i
9 1
1 • 1
• 9
I 1
1 1
1 «
1 «
1 ¦
1 ¦
1 *
1 1
• 1 1 1 1
t 1 .
1 •
1 1
1 1
1 1 1 1 1 1
i S - Q-C—- 2 ¦
1 1 1 1 1
1 1
1 •
1 1
1 1
» 1 1 1 1 1
B 1
• 1
1 1
• III 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
* 1
1 1
a 111 1
• »
i 1
i 1
• 1111 1
a •
a *
1 Hour
2 Hours
I 3 Hours
J 4 Hours !
Note: 0.5 Inch = 40,000 trace units
Figure L-5. Simulated Dispersion of Effluent from Alternative Outfall Site 2 During a 4-Hour, 20 m/s
West Wind Event
-------
11 111 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
11 111 i
i i
» i
i i
i i
11 111 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1 1 1 1 1
1 •
1 1
1 1
1 I
1 1
• 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1. 1
¦XI •
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
¦ 1
1 1
1 1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 t
i i
i i
i i
i i
»• •
n. :
1 1
1 1 •
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
:*1 ,¦
. 1
1 - •. 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
• 1
1 11
I 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
• 1
1 1
1 1
1 I
I l
1 1
» • ¦
»•* 1
1
i.v. •
¦ ¦.1
> •. i
¦ *
• i
i *
¦ i
• •
• i
¦ «
• i
9 t 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 11
a •
1 1
• I
1 1
1 »
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 11
1 1
1 1
111 1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 11 1 • 1
e i
• 1 Hour !
• 1
• 11
a 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 I
1 1
1 11
1 1
1 1
a 11 i i
1 1
1 1
1 1
• 1 • 11 1
a i
i i
; 2 Hours ;
1 11
1 a
1 1
1 1
1 1
• 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 11
1 1
1 1
Bill 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1 1 1 1 1
a i
1 1
3 Hours !
1 1 1
» «
I i
i i
l i
i t
i i
i •
i i
» • i
i i
Bill ¦
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
01111 1
S 1
a i
I 4 Hours !
Note: 0.5 Inch = 40,000 trace units
Figure L-6. Simulated Dispersion of Effluent from Alternative Outfall Site 2 During a 4-Hour, 20 m/s
East Wind Event
-------
r
i
-j
1 Hour
I , .
I I-
2 Hours
I . ¦
i
i.
i
i.
i.
3 Hours
1 I I I I I
I I
1
I
I
>
I
I V
I I . .
4 Hours
Note: 0.5 Inch = 40,000 trace units
Figure L-7. Simulated Dispersion of Effluent from Alternative Outfall Site 3 During a 4-Hour, 20 m/s
West Wind Event
-------
1 1 11 1 1
1 1
1 p
1 1 1 11 1
1 1
1 1
• • 1 1 1 1
1 1
1 1
i i i a l i
a t
a i
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
t 1
1 1
1 •
1 1
a i
a i
• i
1 1
1 1
1 1
i i
• 1
1 1
1 •
1 1
1 •
1 •
1 1
1 1
• 1
I •
1 1
1 1
1
1
. *
a i
a i
i i
a i
a . t
1. . 1
•. 1 I
1 1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
( 1
1 1
1 1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1... ¦
1. • . 1
1 , .. 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
• 1
1 11
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
• . . . 1
1 . . . . 1
1 1 ... 1
• . « . I
1 ¦
1 1
f 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1 1
1 1
I 1
t 1
1 •
• 1
i
i
i
i
i
i
i
i
i
i. , i
a. . . . i
a i
. . . i
... a
i
i
i
i
i i
i
i
i
i
i
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 ¦ 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
% 1
i a
1 11
1 •
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
• 1
• 1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
a
i
i
i
i
i
i
i
i
i
i a
•
i
i
1 1
1 a
1 1
1 t
1 1
1 11
• 1
1 1
1 1 1 1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 1
1 t
1 1
1 1a
• 1
1 1
III! 1
1 1
1
1
1
•
•
1
1
1
1 1 1 1
1
1
1
1
«
1 1
•
1
I
1
i
i
i
a
i
i
i
i
• » a
i
i
i
i
i
i
t i
a
a
i
i
1 1
• 1
1 1
111 • 1 1
1 1
• 1
1 1
•till 1
1 1
1
1
1 1 1 1 1
•
1
1
•
1
1
B 1 1 1 1
¦
a
i
i
i
i
; 1 Hour ;
1 1
2 Hours !
1
! 3 Hours
a
a
a
i
i
i
4 Hours !
Note: 0.5 Inch = 40,000 trace units
Figure L-8. Simulated Dispersion of Effluent from Alternative Outfall Site 3 During a 4-Hour, 20 m/s
East Wind Event
-------
2 Hour
12 Hours
24 Hours
32 Hours
Figure L-9. Simulated Dispersion of Effluent from the Proposed Outfall Site during a 32-Hour,
5 m/s West Wind
-------
r
i
o
Figure L-10. Simulated Dispersion of Effluent from the Proposed Outfall Site during a 32-Hour,
5 m/s East Wind
-------
2 Hour
12 Hours
24 Hours
32 Hours
Figure L-11. Simulated Dispersion of Effluent from Alternative Outfall Site A-1 during a 32-Hour,
5 m/s West Wind
-------
: \J/ :
W;
I
:
Jw'
mi:
:
* * ¦ •
1 ¦! M 1
» « •
2 Hour
12 Hours
24 Hours
32 Hours
Figure L-12. Simulated Dispersion of Effluent from Alternative Outfall Site A-1 during a 32-Hour,
5 m/s East Wind
-------
2 Hour
12 Hours
24 Hours
32 Hours
Figure L-13. Simulated Dispersion of Effluent from Alternative Outfall Site A-2 during a 32-Hour,
5 m/s West Wind
-------
^ '
i)
L)
tM"
• . K •
¦ ¦ ^
'. .. . !
'.,.. !
• * . « • •
2 Hour
12 Hours
24 Hours
32 Hours
Figure L-14. Simulated Dispersion of Effluent from Alternative Outfall Site A-2 during a 32-Aour,
5 m/s East Wind
-------
J /
, \js /:
K!::
'• '
. 7K
si?
X
, ¦
, '¦
/Wi-
\ :'
r
i
J J
• . . ¦ •
1 •
¦ *
:
¦ ¦ • ¦. i
'—.
' • t .
2 Hour
12 Hours
24 Hours
32 Hours
Figure L-15. Simulated Dispersion of Effluent from Alternative Outfall Site A-3 during a 32-Hour,
5 m/s West Wind
-------
J ;
• •
¦
• w
•\ I / '
•:
• t
• i i * »
XW'-:
• i
2 Hour
12 Hours
24 Hours
32 Hours
Figure L-16. Simulated Dispersion of Effluent from Alternative Outfall Site A-3 during a 32-Hour,
5 m/s East Wind
-------
2 Hour
12 Hours
24 Hours
32 Hours
Figure L-17. Simulated Dispersion of Effluent from Trident Seafoods during a 32-Hour,
5 m/s West Wind
-------
' •
•, -
• ¦
• K •
m/" ;
/g
¦
. ¦¦ •.
1 t i a •
• m> • • •
. • ¦.
• *''
* • i • i. •
• ¦
2 Hour
12 Hours
24 Hours
32 Hours
Figure L-18. Simulated Dispersion of Effluent from Trident Seafoods during a 32-Hour,
5 m/s East Wind
-------
Appendix M. Cumulative Impacts of Seafood Processing
on Dissolved Oxygen in Akutan Harbor,
Alaska
-------
Appendix M. Cumulative Impacts of Seafood Processing
on Dissolved Oxygen in Akutan Harbor,
Alaska
Introduction
Deep Sea Fisheries' proposed shore-based seafood processing plant in Akutan
Harbor, Alaska, will contribute a significant organic loading to the harbor. In view of the
fact that existing seafood processors, including the shore-based Trident Seafoods facility and
several floating processors, discharge large quantities of fish wastes under present conditions,
it is necessary to characterize the cumulative impacts of existing and proposed discharges
on the beneficial uses in the harbor. Given the oxygen-demanding nature of these
discharges, there is particular concern about the cumulative impacts of seafood processors
on dissolved oxygen (DO) in Akutan Harbor. For Akutan Harbor, the State of Alaska's
water quality standard regulations (Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation
1989) require:
Surface dissolved oxygen (DO) concentrations in coastal water shall not be
less than 6.0 mg/1 for a depth of one meter except when natural conditions
cause this value to be depressed. DO shall not be reduced below 4 mg/1 at
any point beneath the surface.
Recognizing the need to maintain this standard, this report estimates the cumulative
impacts of various scenarios of seafood processor discharges on the DO resources of Akutan
Harbor.
Conceptual Model
The conceptual model for estimating cumulative impacts of seafood processing on
the DO in Akutan Harbor is derived from the equations of mass balance for dissolved
constituents as described in the manual for WASP4 (Ambrose et al. 1991). More
specifically, it assumes that the oxygen-demanding properties of the seafood waste can be
described in terms of biological oxygen demand (BOD) and that the important processes
in the mass balance for BOD and DO are:
• Horizontal and vertical advection
• Horizontal and vertical diffusion
M-l
-------
Consumption of DO as microorganisms metabolize BOD in the water column
• Transfer of DO across the air-water interface (reaeration) by various processes
including mixing due to wind stress
© Introduction of BOD from external sources such as seafood discharges
« Introduction of DO and BOD across boundaries between the harbor and the
open ocean
Invoking standard assumptions regarding turbulent fluxes and kinetics of BOD
stabilization and DO reaeration, as described in the WASP4 manual, the appropriate
equations for the mass balance of BOD and DO in Akutan Harbor are:
± (U,L) - JL (U L) - * (U,L)
at ox ay az
d dL. d 3L. d 3L. (1)
+ "aT (Ex^~) + -T- ( y^-) + -T-(Ez^-)
dx dx dy y dy dz dz
- kj L + SL
= - 1 (U,C) - 4- (U.C) - 4: W
at ax dy J az
d /r: dC, d dCs d /c (3CX (2)
* * ^ 4 * (E^) *
- k1 L + Sc ^ (CMt-C)
where
L = concentration of BOD, mg/1
C = concentration of DO, mg/1
C^, = saturation level of DO, mg/1
t = time, seconds
x,y,z = spatial coordinates, meters
M-2
-------
E,ErEz
= longitudinal, lateral, and vertical coefficients of eddy diffusivity,
meters2/second
Ux,Uy,Uz = longitudinal, lateral, and vertical velocities, meters/second
SL = source of BOD, mg/l/second
Sc = source of DO, mg/l/second
kj = deoxygenation rate, seconds"1
k2 = reaeration rate, seconds"1
Equations (1) and (2) are solved numerically using a finite difference method in
which Akutan Harbor is idealized by a number of parallelepipeds (called control volumes
or segments in WASP4), all of the same size. The plan of the grid used to define the
horizontal extent of these segments is shown in Figure M-l. The vertical extent of the
segmentation varies from location to location depending on the average water depth
associated with the horizontal segmentation. Mass balances for BOD and DO are
performed on these segments, using the explicit, finite difference formulation of Equations
(1) and (2). It is the nature of the finite difference methods that at each time step in the
solution of these equations, the simulated concentrations of BOD and DO are constant
throughout each segment.
The elements of the conceptual model described above apply to applications of the
WASP4 methodology to simulate BOD and DO. Elements of the conceptual model that
are specific to the implementation of the methodology in Akutan Harbor include:
• Oxygen-demanding wastes associated with the various seafood processing streams
from each source are aggregated into a single category with uniform oxygen-
demanding characteristics.
• The discharges from all sources have come to equilibrium in the surface water
whether they are discharged at depth or at the surface.
• Transfer of oxygen across the air-water interface is due to wind stress only.
Design Conditions
For purposes of estimating waste loads to Akutan Harbor that will not impair
beneficial uses associated with levels of DO greater than 6.0 mg/I, it is necessary to choose
appropriate design conditions. Since data from Akutan Harbor are limited, the approach
adopted for this analysis is to choose two seasons, summer and winter, based on production
M-3
-------
Figure M-1. WASP Model Grid Plan forAkutan Harbor
M-4
-------
characteristics, as described in the Environmental Assessment (EA). Data from the EA are
also used to characterize hydrographic conditions for the summer and winter seasons. In
addition, the following assumptions are used:
0 The critical design conditions for both summer and winter discharge are ones of
average wind speeds and zero mean current.
• In the design conditions, advection processes are small and random and can be
incorporated into the coefficients of eddy diffusivity.
• The Akutan Harbor DO/BOD system reaches a steady state during the design
condition.
Parameter Estimation
In the absence of data from Akutan Harbor, it was necessary to obtain parameter
estimates from other studies. Data from a study of seafood processing wastes in Captains
Bay, Alaska (Cope 1993) were used to estimate coefficients of horizontal and vertical eddy
diffusivity and deoxygenation rates associated with seafood wastes. Current measurements
in Akutan Harbor, reported by Evans-Hamilton (Appendix C of EA), were used to
determine if the estimates for Captains Bay used by Cope (1993) were reasonable ones for
Akutan Harbor. This was done by assuming the length scale associated with turbulent
diffusion is related to the asymptotic form of variance in an homogeneous, isotropic,
_2
stationary field of turbulence for large dispersion times. This variance, , is given by
Frenkiel (1953):
-2 9 * t
dry ~ 2 K t
where,
k* = the coefficient of eddy diffusivity,
t = time.
For purposes of comparison, it was assumed the length scale associated with turbulent
diffusion was twice the square root of the variance. In an infinite ocean this would
correspond to 95% of the total surface area affected by diffusion. Length scales associated
with currents in the harbor were estimated by computing the daily displacement in the
progressive vector diagram for each of the three current meters. The daily displacement was
M-5
-------
chosen based on the results of time-dependent simulations (Figure M-2), showing the
response time of a typical location in the harbor is between one and two days. The
cumulative distribution functions for daily displacement at each of the three current meter
stations are given in Figures M-3 through M-5. Estimates of the coefficient of eddy
diffusivity using this methodology range from .03 m2/s to 89 m2/s, with lowest estimates at
the deep station near Deep Sea's proposed outfall and the highest estimates at the station
in the central harbor. For an eddy diffusivity of 0.5 m2/s, approximately that used by Cope
(1993), the cumulative probabilities are 0.14, 0.32, and 0.85, respectively, for the current
meter located in the central harbor near Trident, the shallow current meter at the proposed
Deep Sea outfall, and the deep current meters at the proposed Deep Sea outfall. The
variability in the cumulative probabilities supports the hypothesis that mixing in Akutan
Harbor decreases with increasing distance from the harbor entrance. However, in light of
the limited data, the horizontal coefficient of eddy diffusivity was assumed to be
homogeneous, isotropic, and stationary.
Reaeration rates were estimated with the methodology used in WASP4 (Ambrose
et al. 1991) using average wind speeds for the appropriate season.
Parameter values used in the base simulations are given in Table M-l.
Method of Analysis
The first step in the analysis was to develop a finite difference grid of Akutan
Harbor. This grid was based on a bathymetric coverage developed by Jones & Stokes
Associates and is shown in Figure M-6. Each grid is 261 by 261 meters in the horizontal
and 5 meters thick. Primary considerations in choosing the grid size were (1) ability to
resolve important water quality features associated with the various discharges, and (2) the
need to keep required computer resources at a reasonable level.
With the finite difference grid, estimates of the impacts of seafood processing on DO
in Akutan Harbor under the environmental design conditions described above were obtained
using a simplified version of the WASP4 simulation methodology. The simplified version
uses an explicit finite difference scheme to obtain a numerical solution to Equations (1) and
(2) and has been used previously to develop mixing zones and NPDES Permit conditions
in Silver Bay, Alaska (Yearsley 1991) and Ward Cove, Alaska (Yearsley 1990). The
simplified methodology uses the same basic approach as WASP4 when the EUTR04
module of WASP4 is applied at Complexity Level 1 (Table 2.4.1 in Ambrose et al. 1991).
However, the simplified methodology does not have the administrative overhead that
WASP4 does, so it is much easier to apply to problems such as Akutan Harbor for which
there are a large number of elements and a potentially large number of discharge scenarios.
M-6
-------
2
"5.
£
Q
O
ca
1.5-
0.5'
I
CD CO
Time - Days
Figure M-2. Transient Response of BOD in Akutan Harbor for Parameter
Set Given in Table 1
M-7
-------
1
J2
a
o
>
13
_C3
E
o
0.75-
0.5-
0.25-
2000
4000
6000
8000
Daily Displacement - meters
Figure M-3. Cumulative Distribution Function for Daily Displacement
Estimated from Current Meter Station 718 (Mooring No. 1
near Trident)
M-8
-------
ca
¦§
u
a.
3
u
0.75
0.5 -
0.25
1000 2000 3000 4000
Daily Displacement - meters
Figure M-4. Cumulative Distribution Function for Daily Displacement
Estimated from Current Meter Station 3180 (Mooring No. 2
near Deep Sea Fisheries)
M-9
-------
-O
a
jo
o
D
E
D
o
0.75-
0.5'¦
0.25-
500 1000 1500 2000
Daily Displacement - meters
Figure M-5. Cumulative Distribution Function for Daily Displacement
Estimated from Current Meter Station 7315 (Mooring No. 2
near Deep Sea Fisheries)
M-10
-------
Table M-l. Estimates for Parameters Used to Assess Impacts
of Seafood Processors on DO in Akutan Harbor, Alaska
Parameter Value Unit
coefficient of eddy
diffusivity,
x-direction
0.5
m2/s
Ey, coefficient of eddy
diffusivity,
y-direction
0.5
m2/s
Ez, coefficient of eddy
diffusivity,
z-direction
1.0x10"*
m2/s
k„ deoxygenation rate
0.1
days'1
w„ average wind speed
(summer)
5.0
m/s
W„ average wind speed
(winter)
5.0
m/s
M-ll
-------
Figure M-6. WASP Model Grid Coordinate System for Akutan Harbor
M-12
-------
The simplified finite difference model was used to develop a BOD influence matrix
for each of the surface cells shown in Figure M-l for both summer and winter. The BOD
influence matrix for each cell was determined for each design condition (winter and
summer) by obtaining a steady-state solution to Equations (1) and (2) when a reference
loading was introduced, one cell at a time, into each cell. The impact on DO in the i, jlh
cell of a reference loading, Lrcf, into the l,mth cell, defines the elements, b(l,m)j , of the
BOD influence matrix, B(l,m). The elements for each cell are computed from
CsarCdm)^
bO^m)^ =
2_s
ref
where,
the saturation level of dissolved oxygen, mg/1
the level of DO in the i,jth cell estimated from Equations (1) and (2)
when the reference load, Lref, is discharged in the l,mth cell , mg/1
the cell index in the x-direction for the cell receiving the reference
discharge
the cell index in the y-direction for the cell receiving the reference
discharge
the cell index in the x-direction for the cell at which the DO impact
occurs
j - the cell index in the y-direction for the cell at which the DO impact
occurs
Since the model is a linear model, the total DO impact of a given discharge scenario,
where a scenario is a configuration of sources of various strengths at various locations during
one of the two design conditions (summer or winter), is:
C(l,m)
m
400 k, = E E1-*),
1 m
M-13
-------
Scenarios were judged to be satisfactory if:
csat - AD°I1J * CAlask%i = 6.0 mg/1
Scenarios
To evaluate the cumulative impact of Deep Sea, Trident, and various floating
processors on DO in Akutan Harbor, 30 scenarios were tested with the methodology
described above. The scenarios were developed by considering several configurations for
discharges from the various processors. For those waste streams other than the proposed
shore-based Deep Sea facility, monthly BOD5 loadings for the various waste streams were
based on values estimated by Jones & Stokes Associates (Tables M-2 and M-3). Jones &
Stokes Associates used similar methodology to estimate the projected weekly average BOD5
loading for the proposed Deep Sea facility. Projected values of weekly averaged BODs
loading for the Deep Sea facility for each month of the year are given in Table M-4.
The 30 scenarios were assembled by considering two dimensions of seafood waste
discharge to Akutan Harbor. The two dimensions were loading rate and discharge location.
The loading component of the 30 scenarios was obtained from these tables by choosing the
maximum weekly average BOD5 loading for each source during the summer and the winter.
The discharge location of the 30 scenarios was defined by recommendations from Seaborne
(1993). In each case, Deep Sea Fisheries' bailwater discharges enter the model in the grid
cell nearest the facility. Deep Sea Fisheries' primary discharge enters the model at the grid
cell corresponding to the location of the proposed or alternative outfall sites.
A. "No Action": No discharge from the shore plant, but continuing discharge from
existing permitted Deep Sea Fisheries floating operations at the head of the
harbor
Summer BOD5 = 0 lbs/day
Winter BOD5 = 671 lbs/day
B. Deep Sea Fisheries shore plant discharges:
1. Proposed outfall location
2. Alternative outfall location A-l
3. Alternative outfall location A-2
4. Alternative outfall location A-3
Summer BOD5 = 51,951 lbs/day
Winter BOD5 = 48,179 lbs/day
M-14
-------
Table M-2. Estimated Monthly Loading of BOD5 to the Waters
of Akutan Harbor from Seafood Processing during 1991
(includes finfish and crab wastes)
Estimated Monthly BOD5 Loading
(pounds/day)
Floating
Month Trident Deep Sea Processors
January
49,212
61
1,263
February
54,689
255
4,500
March
11,274
416
5,070
April
8,957
255
1,950
May
1,556
113
257
June
41,394
0
783
July
48,674
0
680
August
55,929
0
769
September
6,831
0
95
October
71
0
1
November
611
71
14
December
1,044
68
278
M-15
-------
Table M-3. Estimated Monthly Loading of BOD5 to the Waters
of Akutan Harbor from Seafood Processing during 1992
(includes finfish and crab wastes)
Estimated Monthly BOD5 Loading
(pounds/day)
Floating
Month Trident Deep Sea Processors
January
19,391
293
2,623
February
59,428
671
11,864
March
19,799
362
5,387
April
4,360
186
2,075
May
1,394
0
21
June
8,147
0
606
July
36,495
0
711
August
65,489
0
804
September
50,226
0
100
October
0
0
7
November
809
105
5
December
32,543
68
699
M-16
-------
Table M-4. Projected Monthly Loading of BOD5
to the Waters of Akutan Harbor from the
Proposed Deep Sea Shore-Based Facility
Estimated Monthly
Month BOD5 Loading
(pounds/day)
January
14,814
February
48,179
March
15,174
April
2,429
May
690
June
6,194
July
28,635
August
51,951
September
39,971
October
0
November
418
December
25,901
M-17
-------
C. Trident shore plant discharge (existing outfall)
Summer BOD5 = 65,489 lbs/day
Winter BOD5 = 59,428 lbs/day
D. Floating processors discharge:
1. Located throughout harbor without restriction
2. Located only east of longitude 165° 46'
3. No floaters in harbor
Summer BOD5 = 804 lbs/day
Winter BOD5 = 11,864 lbs/day
The 30 scenarios were developed by examining combinations of these loadings and loadings
during both summer and winter design conditions. The 30 scenarios are shown in
Table M-5.
Uncertainty in Estimates
Due to the limited availability of data, it was necessary to make estimates of certain
critical parameters including loading rates, deoxygenation rate, reaeration rate, and
coefficient of eddy diffusivity. In addition, the density characteristics of the effluent are not
well known. The density of the effluent determines where the waste comes to equilibrium
in the water column. This is important for estimating impacts on DO for two reasons. First,
reaeration is a surface phenomenon, and demand from organic matter which reaches the
water surface will be mitigated by the transfer of DO from the air to the water. Second, the
State of Alaska's criterion for DO is different in the surface layer than at depth (see above).
These factors lead to uncertainty in the estimated cumulative impacts of the
discharges on water quality. The magnitude of this uncertainty was evaluated for two
aspects of the problem: uncertainty in the coefficient of eddy diffusivity and uncertainty in
the fate of the effluent. The uncertainty in the coefficient of eddy diffusivity was evaluated
by estimating DO impacts on Akutan Harbor for the summer and winter conditions using
loadings from Scenarios No. 4 and 19, respectively, and for values of the eddy diffusivity
representing the lowest estimate (0.03 m2/s) and the highest (89 m2/s).
M-18
-------
Table M-5. Combinations of Loadings and Locations Used to Estimate Cumulative Impacts
of Seafood Processors in Akutan Harbor
#
Scenario
#
Scenario
#
Scenario
Summer
Winter
Summer
Winter
Summer
Winter
1.
16.
A,C,D.l
2.
17.
A,C,D.2
3.
18.
A,C,D.3
4.
19.
B.l,C,D.l
5.
20.
B.1,C,D.2
6.
21.
B.1,C,D.3
7.
22.
B.2,C,D.l
8.
23.
B.2,C,D.2
9.
24.
B.2,C,D.3
10.
25.
B.3,C,D.l
11.
26
B.3.C.D.2
12.
27.
B.3,C,D.3
13.
28.
B.4,C,D.l
14.
29
B.4,C,D.2
L5.
30.
B.4,C,D.3
M-19
-------
Results
Base Condition
The estimated cumulative impacts of the 30 scenarios under the base conditions are
shown in Figures M-7 through M-36. Estimated DO levels in the surface waters are less
than the State of Alaska's water quality standard of 6.0 mg/1 for all summer scenarios. For
existing conditions (Scenarios No. 1 through 3), the only source whose estimated impacts
violate water quality standards for DO is the Trident shore-based facility. For all other
summer scenarios (Scenarios No. 4 to 6, 10 to 12, and 12 to 15), except the one in which
Deep Sea's proposed discharge is at Alternative Outfall Site A-l (Scenarios No. 7 through
9), both Trident and Deep Sea's discharges are the sources of the unacceptable DO levels.
The floating processors, under design conditions used in this analysis for summer, do not
contribute significantly to water quality standards violations for DO so long as the floating
processors are more than 400 meters from the shore-based sources. Reduction of Trident's
BOD5 loading to 36,800 lbs/day results in acceptable estimated levels of DO in Akutan
Harbor under existing conditions. Limiting the proposed Deep Sea discharge to
31,500 lbs/day and reducing Trident's discharge to 36,800 lbs/day results in acceptable
estimated levels of DO except discharge of Deep Sea waste at Alternative Outfall Site A-3.
For winter conditions, estimated cumulative impacts on DO from seafood processors
do not result in water quality violations for the base conditions except for the scenario in
which Deep Sea discharges at Alternative Outfall Site A-3 (Scenarios No. 27 through 30).
Uncertainty in Eddy Diffusivity
Levels of DO in the surface waters of Akutan Harbor for summer and winter
conditions were estimated using coefficients of eddy diffusivity of 0.03 m2/s and 89 m2/s.
As discussed above, these values represent a range of mixing levels inferred from observed
currents in Akutan Harbor and the theory of turbulent diffusion. Loading Scenarios No. 4
and 19 were used for the summer and winter conditions, respectively. For the case of
minimum turbulent diffusion (Figures M-37 and M-38), estimated DO levels for the
preferred alternative are below the State of Alaska's water quality criterion during both
winter and summer. Estimated levels of DO exceed the criterion for the preferred
alternative when the coefficient of eddy diffusivity has the maximum estimated value
(Figures M-39 and M-40).
M-20
-------
Ocean Boundary
(Q
C
(D
2
¦
o mw
3 x o
oji 3
O ="01
»«&
° ° o
o
X D) -1
-------
Akutan PL <
location of
Deep Sea Fisheries
existing outfall
Trident
Seafoods
Outfall
Figure M-9. Scenario No.3 (Summer) -
Existing outfall, no floating
processors In harbor
CO
T3
O
m
c
ro
®
o
O
Akutan PL,
Trident
Seafoods
Outfall
8
8
'8
8
7
7
8
8
8
7
8
8
7
6
7
8
8
7
8
7
•3
5
7
8
7
si1-
8
8
location for
Deep Sea Fishenas
proposed outfall site
Akutan
3
9
9
^78
9
9
9
9
9
9
6 7
8
9
9
9
9
9
7 8
9
9
9
9
9
9
8 8
9
9
9
9
9
9
8 9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
9
Figure M-10. Scenario No.4 (Summer) -
Proposed outfall, no restriction
on location of floating processors
HAUT1CAL ML£fi
0
Scale Approximate
Note: Numbers represent predicted dissolved oxygen
concentration (mg/l) in surface layer.
M-22
-------
location for
Deep Sea Fisheries
proposed outfall site
Figure M-11. Scenario No.5 (Summer)-
Proposed outfall, floating processors
east of 165° 46' only
Akuian Pi
"o
c
3
O
m
c
m
®
o
8 8 7
7 6
Trident
Seafoods
Outfall
location for
Deep Sea Fishenes
proposed outfall site
AJ^- .—<9 9
8 8 8 7 7
9 9 9 9 9 9
7 8 8 7 5
367899999
5 7 8 7 6
578999999
~\88 7
788999999
V 89999999
^ 9 9 9 9 9 9
9 9 9 9
Akutan PL <
9 9
Figure M-12. Scenario No.6 (Summer) -
Proposed outfall, no floating
processors In harbor
nautic*. fca ps
0
KLOMETEAB
Scale Approximate
N
,l
Note: Numbers represent predicted dissolved oxygen
concentration (mg/l) in surface layer.
M-23
-------
Akjtan PL <
location for
Deep Sea Fisheries
alternative outfaJI site A-1
Trident
Seafoods
Outfall
7
7
8
8
,6
7
8
8
7
8
8
6'
5
6
7
8
7
8
8
6
5
6
7
8
7
8
Akutan
9
9
»_
9
9
9
9
0
nj
9
9
9
9
9
9
0
T>
9
9
9
9
9
9
0
c
9
9
9
9
9
9
0
D
9
9
9
9
9
9
0
o
9
9
9
9
9
9
0
CQ
9
9
9
9
9
9
0
9
9
9
9
9
9
0
C
9
9
9
9
9
9
0
(13
9
9
9
9
9
9
0
O
9
9
9
9
a.
0
O
9
9
9
9
O
9
9
Figure M-13. Scenario No.7 (Summer) -
Outfall A-1, no restriction
on location of floating processors
location for
Deep Sea Fisheries
alternative outfall site A-1
Figure M-14. Scenario No.8 (Summer) -
Outfall A-1, floating processors
east of 165° 46' only
Akutan PL t
m
C
3
O
CD
c
(0
®
o
o
NAJJTCAA. ULES
Scale Approximate
Note: Numbers represent predicted dissolved oxygen
concentration (mg/l) in surface layer.
M-24
-------
Aloilan Pl .
location for
Deep Sea Fisheries
alternative outfall site A-1
Trident
Seafoods
Figure M-15. Scenario No.9 (Summer) -
Outfall A-1, no floating processors
In harbor
m
"O
c
3
o
CD
c
(TJ
©
o
Akutan PL <
Trident
Seafoods
Outfall
location for
Deep Sea Fisheries
alternative outfall site A-2
Figure M-16. Scenario No.10 (Summer) -
Outfall A-2, no restriction on
location of floating processors
<9
"O
C
3
O
CO
03
®
KAurcALUi.es
KL0UETEP6
Scale Approximate
Note: Numbers represent predicted dissolved oxygen
concentration (mg/l) in surface layer.
M-25
-------
location for
Deep Sea Fisheries
alternative outfall site A-2
Akutan
—^9 9 9
^7 8 9 9
9 9 9 9
6 7 8 9
9 9 9 9
7 8 9 9
9 9 9 9
8 8 9 9
9 9 9 9
8 9 9 9
9 9 9 9
¦^999
9 9 9 9
9 9 9 9
Figure M-17. Scenario No.11 (Summer) -
Outfall A-2, floating processors
east of 165° 46' only
Akutan Pi.»
"O
c
3
o
CD
c
as
$
o
Akutan Pl«
Trident
Seafoods
Outfall
location for
Deep Sea Fisheries
alternative outfall site A-2
Figure M-18. Scenario No.12 (Summer) -
Outfall A-2, no floating
processors in harbor
(8
"O
C
3
o
m
a
O
KM/nOA. MLE6
Scale Approximate
Note: Numbers represent predicted dissolved oxygen
concentration (mg/l) in surface layer.
M-26
-------
Akijtan Pt.<
Trident
Seafoods
Outfall
location for
Deep Sea Fisheries
alternative outfall site A-3
Figure M-19. Scenario No.13 (Summer) -
Outfall A-3, no restriction on
location of floating processors
05
"O
C
D
O
CD
c
CO
®
O
O
Trident
Seafoods
Outfall
location for
Deep Sea Fisheries
alternative outfaJI site A-3
Figure M-20. Scenario No.14 (Summer) -
Outfall A-3, floating processors
east of 165° 46' only
Akutan PL,
N
HMfnCH. Mt.ES
0
1
KLOMCTEAS
. ,l
1
Scale Approximate
0
11
Note: Numbers represent predicted dissolved oxygen
concentration (mg/l) in surface layer.
M-27
-------
9 9 9 9
Trident
Seafoods
Outfall
Akutan^ ^9 9 9
9 9 8 6 5;
^6 7 8 9 9 9 9 9
9 8 7 6 3
157899999
8 8 7 5 3
357899999
578999999
89999999
^99 99999
location for
t 9 9 9 9
Deep Sea Fisheries
alternative outfall site A-3
Figure M-21. Scenario No.15 (Summer) -
Outfall A-3, no floating processors In harbor
Akutan PL i
9 9
ra
13
c
D
o
CO
TO
CD
O
o
Trident
Seafoods
Outfall
Akutan
location of
Deep Sea Fishenes
existing outfall
9" 910101011
6 8 910101011
11101
:0111111101010 9
.0101110101010 9 8
.0101010101010 9 8 8 8 910101011
10_9 9 9 91010101011
101010101111
1010101111
.111
Figure M-22. Scenario No.16 (Winter) -
Existing outfall, no restriction
on location of floating processors
Akutan PL,
HIT
11111111
11111111111
111111111111
111111111111111
111111111111111
111111111111111
111111111111111
111111111111111
111111111111111
111111111111111
1111111111111
11111111]
1111]
•U
c
Z3
o
m
c
ra
o
u
O
UU/T1CM. ULEB
0
Scale Approximate
N
I
Note: Numbers represent predicted dissolved oxygen
concentration (mg/l) in surface layer.
M-28
-------
Trident
Seafoods
Outfall
location of
Deep Sea Fisheries
existing outfall.
1110]
.0111111101010
flOlOJL 110101010
.010101010
10
101C
Akutan
9101C
6 8 9101C
7 8 9101C
9 910101C
1010101C
,0101C
Figure M-23. Scenario No.17 (Winter) -
Existing outfall, floating
processors east of 165° 46' only
mi
mi
010101111
101010101011
101010101011
101010101111
101010101111
101010111111
101011111111
111111111111
1111
11
Akutan Pl <
Trident
Seafoods
Outfall
location of
Deep Sea Fisheries
existing outfall
Figure M-24. Scenario No.18 (Winter) -
Existing outfall, no floating
processors in harbor
11
0
k_
11
0
(0
11
0
"O
11
0
C
11
0
D
11
0
O
11
0
CD
11
0
11
0
c
11
0
03
0
-------
Akutan PL,
Trident
Seafoods
Outfall
Akutan
location for
Deep Sea Fisheries
proposed outfall site
1111
11111111
.11111111111
111111111111
:illllllllllllllll
9101010111111111111111111
6 8 9101010111111111111111111
7 8 9101010111111111111111111
9 910101010111111111111111111
1010101011111111111111111111
101011111111111111111111
1111111111111111]
111111111J
1111]
o
m
Figure M-25. Scenario No.19 (Winter) -
Proposed outfall, no restriction
on location of floating processors
location of
floating processors
Akuta/i PL i
location for
Deep Sea Fishenes
proposed outfall site
Tridenl
Seafoods
Outfall
IS
9iofcr
9 9 910
8 8 8 9
6 8 9
Akutan
Figure M-26. Scenario No.20 (Winter) -
Proposed outfall, floating processors
east of 165° 46* only
imv
ilium (
liiiiiiiini (
liiiiiiiiin (
101010111111111111 (
9101dl0101010101111111111 (
8 9101(10101010101111111111 (
8 9101(10101010111111111111 I
910101(10101010111111111111 (
1010101(10101011111111111111 (
0101<)10101111111111111111 (
11111111111111111*1 (
11111111JI/1 I
my! |
nj
TD
C
D
O
CD
c
0J
CD
O
o
NAU7XM. ULES
Scale Approximate
Note: Numbers represent predicted dissolved oxygen
concentration (mg/l) in surface layer.
M-30
-------
Trident
Seafoods
Outfall
91010"
lOIO 9 9 910 9
(10 9 8 8 8 9 9
10
location for
Deep Sea Fisheries
proposed outfall site
9
9
e
9
8
9
9
Akutan
Akutan PL.
11111111 0
111111111111 0
111111111111 0
111111111111111111 o
9101010111111111111111111 0
8 9101010111111111111111111 0
8 9101010111111111111111111 0
910101010111111111111111111 0
1010101011111111111111111111 0
0101011111111111111111111 0
lllllllllllllllll^i-1 0
liiiini:
Figure M-27. Scenario No.21 (Winter) -
Proposed outfall, no floating
processors In harbor
J.H11J
ro
"D
o
m
location for
Deep Sea Fisheries
alternative outfall site A-1
Trident
Seafoods
Outfall
Akutan
Akutan PL ,
1111
11111111
11111111111
111111111111
11111111111111111
9 9101010111111111111111111
8 9101010111111111111111111
8 9101010111111111111111111
910101010111111111111111111
1010101011111111111111111111
101011111111111111111111
liiiiiiiiiiiiiin;
11111111J
11111J
Figure M-28. Scenario No.22 (Winter) -
Outfall A-1, no restriction
on location of floating processors
NAUT1CM.UI.E6
o
KUOMETEflS
Scale Approximate
N
i!
i
Note: Numbers represent predicted dissolved oxygen
concentration (mg/l) in surface layer.
M-31
-------
Akutan Pl «
location for
Deep Sea Fisheries
alternative outfall site A-1
Trident
Seafoods
Outfall
IS
fL°
9
8
9
9 9
9
10
9 ?
7
8
9 9
9
£
10
9 8
8
8
9 9
9
8
10
9
9
Akutan
^9101
6 8 9101
7 8 9101(
9 910101d
1010101
.01010
1111
1111
010101111
0101010101011
(JlOlOlOlOlOll
101010101111
101010101111
0101010111111
101011111111
111111111111
1111
11
Figure M-29. Scenario No.23 (Winter) -
Outfall A-1, floating processors
east of 165° 46" only
Akutan PL t
location for
Deep Sea Fisheries
alternative outfall site A-1
Trident
Seafooda
Figure M-30. Scenario No.24 (Winter) -
Outfall A-1, no floating
processors In harbor
N
WU/nCJLULES
0
Scale Approximate
Note: Numbers represent predicted dissolved oxygen
concentration (mg/l) in surface layer.
M-32
-------
Akutari PL >
9 9
Trident
Seafood*
Outfall
Llll
9 8 8 9 9 9 9
Aloitan
location for
Deep Sea Fisheries
alternative outfall site A-2
11111111
11111111111
111111111111
11111111111111111
9^9101010111111111111111111
8 9101010111111111111111111
8 9101010111111111111111111
910101010111111111111111111
1010101011111111111111111111
0101011111111111111111111
liiiiiiiiiiiiiini;
1111111113
11111J
(8
¦o
c
D
o
m
ffl
-------
Akutan PL,
Trident
Seafoods
Outfall
location for
Deep Sea Fisheries
alternative outfall site A-2
Figure M-33. Scenario No.27 (Winter) -
Outfall A-2, no floating processors
In harbor
Akutan
Trident
Seafoods
Outfall
location for
Deep Sea Fisheries
alternative outfall site A-3
Figure M-34. 'Scenario No.28 (Winter) -
Outfall A-3, no restriction on
location of floating processors
MAl/TICM. WLES
0
KljOMTrtHS
Scale Approximate
Note: Numbers represent predicted dissolved oxygen
concentration (mg/l) in surface layer.
M-34
-------
location for
Deep Sea Fisheries
alternative outfall site A-3
Akutan Pt.,
111.
11111111 0
111111111111 0
111111111111 0
101010111111111111 0
)10101010101111111111 0
)10101010101111111111 0
)10101010111111111111 0
1)10101010111111111111 0
1)10101011111111111111 0
1)10101111111111111111 0
lllllllllllllllirw^. o
11111111/1
1111]
CO
¦o
c
3
o
m
Figure M-35. Scenario No.29 (Winter) -
Outfall A-3, floating processors
east of 165° 46' only
Trident
Seafoods
Outfall
location for
Deep Sea Fisheries
alternative outfall site A-3
Akutan PL 1
llll^
11111111
'111111111111
111111111111
.11111111111111111
8 9101010111111111111111111
7 9101010111111111111111111
8 9101010111111111111111111
8 9101010111111111111111111
910101010111111111111111111
,0101011111111111111111111
.1111111111111111]
11111111]
Figure M-36. Scenario No.30 (Winter) -
Outfall A-3, no floating processors
In harbor
o
CD
NALT1CAL ULEB
Scale Approximate
N
1
Note: Numbers represent predicted dissolved oxygen
concentration (mg/l) in surface layer.
M-35
-------
Akutan P[
Trident
Seafoods
Outfall
location for
Deep Sea Fisheries
proposed outfall site
Figure M-37. Results of Scenario No.4 using
low (0.03 m2/s) coefficient of eddy dlffuslvlty
Akutan Pi.
Trident
Seafoods
Outfall
location for
Deep Sea Fisheries
proposed outfall site
Figure M-38. Results of Scenario No. 19
using low (0.03 m2/s) coefficient of eddy dlffuslvlty
NALmCM. MLEG
0
Scale Approximate
N
il
0
1
Note: Numbers represent predicted dissolved oxygen
concentration (mg/l) in surface layer.
M-36
-------
Akutan Pl»
Trident
Seafoods
Outfall
Akutan
0101010101010111^1^11111111
01010101010101111111111111111
0101QA01010101111111111111111
111111111111111
1111111111
location for " mini;
Deep Sea Fisheries
proposed outfall site
Figure M-39. Results of Scenario No. 4 using
high (89 m2/s) Coefficient of eddy dlffuslvlty
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
l
aJ
-o
c
3
O
CD
c
(C
©
o
O
Akutan Pit
Trident
Seafoods
Outfall
location for
Deep Sea Fisheries
proposed outfall site
Figure M-40. Results of Scenario No. 19 using
high (89 m 2/s) coefficient of eddy dlffuslvlty
NAtmcM.Mi.es
Scale Approximate
Note: Numbers represent predicted dissolved oxygen
concentration (mg/l) in surface layer.
M-37
-------
References
Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation. 1989. Water quality standard •
regulations 18 AAC 70. 30 pp.
Ambrose, R. B., T. A. Wool, J. L. Martin, J. P. Connolly, and R. W. Schanz. 1991. WASP4,
a hydrodynamic and water quality model-model theory, user's manual, and
programmer's guide. Environmental Research Laboratory, ORD, EPA, Athens,
Georgia. 324 pp.
Baumgartner, D. J., W. E. Frick, P. J. W. Roberts, and C. A. Bodeen. 1993. Dilution
models for effluent discharges. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Pacific
Ecosystems Branch, Newport Oregon, 176 pp.
Cope, B. 1993. Impacts of Westward Seafoods on DO in Captain's Bay, Alaska. EPA
Region 10 draft.
Frenkiel, F. N. 1953. Turbulent diffusion: Mean concentration distribution in a flow field
of homogeneous turbulence. In Advances in Applied Mechanics, edited by R. von
Mises and T. von Karman, Academic Press Inc., New York, N.Y. pp. 61-107.
Seaborne, F. 1993. Deep Sea Fisheries/Akutan Harbor EA alternatives assessment.
Memorandum to John Yearsley dated February 12, 1993. EPA Region 10, Seattle,
Washington.
Yearsley, J. R. 1990. Estimating the impacts of discharges from Ketchikan Pulp Co. on the
surface waters of Ward Cove, Alaska. EPA 910/R-93-004. EPA Region 10, Seattle,
Washington.
. 1991. Estimates of dilution in the vicinity of ALP's discharge to Sawmill Cove near
Sitka, Alaska. Memorandum to Carla Fisher, EPA Region 10, Water Division, dated
April 23, 1991.
M-38
------- |