United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
Office of Research and
Development
Washington, DC 20460
EPA/620/R-00/002
April 2000
EPA
Coastal 2000
Northeast Component
Field Operations
Manual
IT2OOQ
Environmental Monitoring
and Assessment Program
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Coastal 2000
Northeast Component
FIELD OPERATIONS MANUAL
Prepared by
Charles J. Strobel
Atlantic Ecology Division
National Health and Environmental Effects Research Laboratory
Office of Research and Development
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
Narragansett, Rhode Island 02882
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Coastal 2000 Field Operations Manual Date: 4/26/00
NOTICE
Mention of trade names, products, or services does not convey, and should not be interpreted as
conveying, official EPA approval, endorsement, or recommendation.
This document is NHEERL/AED contribution number AED-00-023
The appropriate citation for this report is:
Strobel, C.J. 2000. Coastal 2000-Northeast Component: Field Operations Manual U. S.
Environmental Protection Agency, National Health and Environmental Effects Research
Laboratory, Atlantic Ecology Division, Narragansett, Rl. EPA/620/R-00/002.
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Acknowledgements
This field manual represents the evolution of past EMAP-Virginian Province manuals. I would like
to acknowledge the contribution past "EMAPers" have made to those documents. Contributors
have included Dan Reifsteck, Ray Valente, Jill Schoenherr, Darryl Keith, Steve Schimmel, Kellie
Merrell, Rebecca Fischman, Mike Daly, Don Cobb, and Kelly Byron.
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CONTENTS
SECTION PAGE
1 - Introduction 1
2 - Overview of Field Sampling Activities 3
Sampling Period 3
Sampling Design 3
Indicators of Ecosystem Health 3
Site Reconnaissance 5
Station Location 5
Sampling 5
3 - Field Data Base Management 7
Sample Tracking Procedures 7
Station and Sample Numbers 7
Use of Bar Codes 8
Electronic Data Entry 8
4 - Water Quality Measurements 10
Hydrolab DataSondeS Unit 10
Obtaining a Hydrolab Profile 12
YSI Model 58 Dissolved Oxygen Meter and Probe 13
Light Attenuation 16
Secchi Depth 17
5 - Water Column Nutrients 18
Chlorophyll a and Phaeophytin 18
Dissolved Nutrients 19
Total Suspended Solids 19
Quality Control 20
6 - Sediment Collections 21
Sediment Collections 21
Field Processing of Samples for Benthic Community Assessment 22
Field Processing of Samples for Chemistry and Toxicity Testing 26
Quality Control/Quality Assurance 27
Safety Considerations 28
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SECTION PAGE
7 - Fish Trawls 29
Gear and General Protocols 29
Trawl Preparation 30
Net Deployment 31
Trawling 31
Net Retrieval 32
Safety Considerations 33
Criteria for Voiding Tows 33
Endangered Species 34
Sample Processing 34
Quality Assurance 38
Contingency Plans 39
Collection Permits 39
8 - Packaging and Shipping Samples 40
Proper Packaging Methods 40
Benthic Biology Samples 42
Sediment Chemistry Samples 42
Sediment Toxicity Samples 43
Grain Size Samples 43
Chlorophyll, Nutrients, and Total Suspended Solids 43
Fish Chemistry 43
Pathology QA Samples 44
Instructions for FEDEX Shipping with Dry Ice 44
Appendices
A. List of supplies and equipment 45
B. Trawl net specifications 51
C. Coastal 2000 datasheets 55
IV
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SECTION 1
INTRODUCTION
As a regulatory agency, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) is charged with the
mission to set environmental policy, obtain funds for research and development, and evaluate the
efficacy of environmental regulations in preserving the Nation's natural resources. EPA's National
Coastal Assessment (Coastal 2000 or C2000) is a five-year effort led by EPA's Office of
Research and Development to evaluate the assessment methods it has developed to advance
the science of ecosystem condition monitoring. C2000 represents the current state of evolution of
EPA's Environmental Monitoring and Assessment Program (EMAP). EMAP was originally
designed to provide a quantitative assessment of the regional extent of environmental problems
by measuring status and change in selected indicators of ecological condition. EMAP provides a
strategy to identify and bound the extent, magnitude, and location of environmental degradation
and improvement on a regional scale.
Beginning in the year 2000, C2000 will attempt to assess the condition of the Nation's
estuarine waters through statistically valid subsampling. Whereas the original EMAP effort was
conducted primarily by EPA and contract staff, C2000 is being implemented in partnership with
the 24 coastal states. This partnership recognizes that each of these entities plays an important
role in estuarine monitoring. Wherever possible, existing state monitoring programs are being
incorporated into the C2000 design. This provides for the maximum utilization of a limited budget,
and the flexibility of allowing states to often "continue doing what they've been doing." Many of
these state programs have been in existence for many years, providing a basis for possible
C2000 trends analyses. Each state will conduct the survey and assess the condition of their
coastal resources independently. These estimates will then be aggregated to assess the
condition at EPA Regional, biogeographical, and National levels. Through this partnership EPA
hopes to build infrastructure within the coastal states to improve, and make more inter-
comparable, the multitude of estuarine monitoring programs throughout the country.
As stated above, C2000 is being implemented in cooperation with the coastal states. Most of
the field sampling, and some of the sample analysis, will be conducted by state agencies through
cooperative agreements with EPA. A common suite of "core" indicators will be measured using
comparable methods:
sediment contaminant concentrations
sediment toxicity (Ampelisca abdita)
benthic species composition
sediment characteristics (grain size, organic carbon content, percent water)
water column dissolved nutrients
chlorophyll a concentrations,
total suspended solids concentration,
surface and bottom dissolved oxygen, salinity, temperature, and pH
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water clarity
contaminant levels in fish
external pathological condition offish
fish community structure
These are listed in more detail in Table 1. The goal is to collect data on all these indicators at
all stations.
C2000 is designed as multi-year program. In the northeast portion of the United States
(Delaware to Maine), estuarine waters will be sampled over a two-year span (2000-2001).
Approximately 30 to 40 stations will be sampled per state each year. Tentatively, the following
two or three years will be dedicated to other ecosystems, such as coastal waters and/or salt
marshes, with the hope of returning to estuaries in years five and six.
Each major region (west coast, Gulf of Mexico, southeast coast, northeast coast, Alaska) will
be coordinated through a central location. EPA's Atlantic Ecology Division (AED) is responsible
for coordinating C2000 activities in the northeast (C2000-NE).
The purpose of this manual is to document suggested field data and sample collection
procedures for C2000-NE. These protocols have been developed by EMAP over the past 10
years. They will be identical to, or at least comparable with, those used in other regions of the
country. Individual states may prefer to use other methods, especially if they are currently being
used in existing programs. This is acceptable providing that comparability can be demonstrated
to the C2000-NE Field Coordinator and the QA Officer.
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SECTION 2
OVERVIEW OF FIELD SAMPLING ACTIVITIES
2.1 Sampling Period
The sampling period for C2000-NE is based on the index period established for the EMAP-
Estuaries effort in the Virginian Province (VP), which is the portion of coastline extending from
Cape Cod, MA south to the mouth of Chesapeake Bay. This is based on the time frame in which
the benthic biota are most active and hypoxia is most prevalent. The established index period is
July through September. Some deviation from this period may be acceptable for areas outside
the Virginian Province if the criteria for defining the index period are met.
2.2 Sampling Design
The EMAP-Estuaries sampling design on which C2000 is based combines the strengths of
systematic and random sampling with our understanding of estuarine systems. It provides a
design that will allow probability-based estimates of the status of the Nation's estuarine systems,
the variability associated with that status, its spatial and temporal components, and the temporal
trends associated with changes in these systems. The Coastal 2000 sampling design is based on
a single, annual sampling season of each station during the Index Period. The design differs from
previous EMAP designs in that existing monitoring programs were incorporated where
appropriate. "Biased" programs, such as those designed to evaluate the effects of a treatment
plant, would NOT be appropriate for inclusion. Working with the states, the C2000-NE design
team was able to identify a large number of sites that are currently being monitored and meet the
criteria for being unbiased in their location. Many were randomly located in the original monitoring
design.
The objective of the sampling design is to provide a statistically defensible strategy for
collecting information about selected indicators of ecological condition and their variability. The
design is flexible to allow alternative future uses.
In developing the sampling design, a list frame was used to represent the population of
estuaries in the United States. This list frame was subdivided to represent all estuarine systems
within the northeast with a surface area greater than 2.6 km2.
2.3 Indicators of Ecosystem Health
The primary goal of C2000 is to provide an assessment of overall ecosystem condition. To
accomplish this goal, a number of "indicators" of ecosystem health will be monitored. The core
set of indicators agreed upon by all entities involved in this project is listed in Table 1.
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Table 1. List of core ecological indicators being measured by C2000
Water Quality Indicators
Hydrographic Profile
- dissolved oxygen
- salinity
-pH
- temperature
- depth
- light attenuation (PAR, transmittance)
- secchi depth
Water Quality Samples
- dissolved nutrients (ortho-phosphates, nitrites, nitrates, ammonia)
- chlorophyll a
- total suspended solids (TSS)
Sediment Quality
Composited Surficial Sediment
- sediment contaminants (organics and metals)
- sediment TOC
- sediment toxicity (amphipod)
- percent silt/clay
Biota
Fish/Shellfish
- community structure (species; abundance; total length, up to 30 individuals)
- tissue contaminants (organics and metals)
- external pathology (fish)
Benthos
- community structure (minimum, 2 replicates)
Habitat
- SAV (presence/absence)
- basic habitat type (e.g., open water, tidal flat, marina, harbor, inlet, tidal river/stream, seagrass bed, rocky
bottom, shelly bottom, coral reef, etc.)
- marine debris (presence/absence)
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2.4 Site Reconnaissance
Prior to the start of field activities, a thorough reconnaissance of the area to be sampled
should be performed whenever field crews will be working in new areas. This includes
determining the locations of boat ramps, hotels, and dry ice suppliers; visiting any stations that
may fall in water too shallow for boats; and attempting to identify any potential problems that the
field crews may face during the Index Period. Needless to say, reconnaissance may not be
needed in areas with which state field crews are familiar.
2.5 Station Location
The randomly selected sampling locations for each state (or specific study area) will be
provided to the field crews as coordinates of latitude/longitude in degrees-minutes, expressed to
the nearest 0.01 minute (i.e., 00° 00.00'). The crews will use GPS (preferably DGPS) to locate
the site. Three different locations will be provided for each station. These are identified as "A",
"B", and "C". The primary site is the "A" location; "B" and "C" are backups. If the primary site is
not accessible, or the bottom is too rocky to obtain a sediment sample, then the crew may move
to the "B" site. If that site is also unsampleable, then they should move to the "C" site. If all three
are unsampleable, then the site is not sampled. If one of the sites can be sampled for only some
of the indicators, then that sampling should be conducted. It is important that the crew note on
the datasheet at which of these locations (A, B, or C) the samples were collected.
Crews will attempt to navigate to the location to within 0.02 nm (± 37 m) of the given
coordinates. This reflects the accuracy expected from a properly functioning GPS unit of the
caliber that will used for the study. The crew will record the actual coordinates of the vessel after
anchorage, NOT the initial intended coordinates, on the field data sheet.
2.6 Sampling
In order to collect data as efficiently as possible and reduce the potential for sample
contamination, the samples should be collected in the order shown in Figure 1. Details about
each sampling procedure can be found in following chapters. A complete list of needed supplies
and equipment can be found in Appendix A. As stated in the Introduction, variations from these
methods must be approved, in advance of sampling, by the Northeast Field Coordinator and the
Northeast QA Officer. An overview of Quality Control/Quality Assurance (QC/QA) protocols for
each sampling technique can be found after the description of each procedure. A more detailed
account of QC/QA proposals can be found in the C2000 Quality Assurance Plan.
In areas where most of the bottom is expected to be rocky, and therefore unsampleable
(Maine for example), the crew should attempt to obtain a grab sample as one of their first
activities. If the bottom is too rocky to obtain a sediment sample, they should move to the first
backup location. Any sediment sample; muddy, sandy, gravely, or shelly; is considered
acceptable. Some movement (i.e., changing the amount of anchor line out) around the prescribed
station location is acceptable, and may be tried before relocating the station.
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Arrive on Station
Record Coordinates
Record Weather & Sea Conditions
& Presence of Trash, SAV, Macroalgae
Determine Secchi Depth
I
Collect Water Column Profile
and Light Measurements
Collect Appropriate Water Samples
for Chlorophyll, Nutrients, & TSS at
Surface, mid, and Bottom
Filter for Chlorophyll
Save Filter
Save Filtrate for
Dissolved Nutrients
Collect 1 liter sample for
TSS
Collect Sediment for Community Analysis
& Chemistry, Toxicity, Grain Size, & TOC
(Biology Grabs Interspersed Among Chem/Tox)
3 Whole Grabs for
Benthic Community
I
TOC
Surficial Sediment Homogenized
I
Organics
Inorganics
I I
Toxicity
Grain Size
Conduct Fish Trawl(s)
Identify, count, measure,
& examine fish
Figure 1. Flow chart of sampling activities conducted at C2000-NE stations.
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SECTION 3
FIELD DATA BASE MANAGEMENT
Management of data in the field is of paramount importance. Without proper data
management the quality of the data generated is questionable. Field data management consists
of two categories; written data sheets and electronic data.
In general all data will be recorded on hard-copy datasheets while on-station, and entered into
a computer back on shore. The use of bar code readers will facilitate the entry of sample
numbers and eliminate transcription errors. AED can provide datasheets and electronic forms for
data entry if desired. AED can also assist in the procurement of bar codes. C2000-NE
datasheets are included in Appendix C. Although their use is not required, it is highly
recommended.
It is the responsibility of the chief scientist to guarantee the quality of the data. At the end of
each day it is his/her responsibility to review the data collected that day and "sign-off" on it.
3.1 Sample Tracking Procedures
A variety of water, water quality, sediment, and biological samples are collected during the
C2000 sampling effort. These include physical samples (i.e., sediment and nutrient samples) and
non-physical samples (i.e., Hydrolab and YSI cast data). It is vital that all of these samples and
data be tracked from collection to the receipt of analytical results. To accomplish this purpose, all
samples collected are assigned unique sample identification numbers (SAMPLE IDs) composed
of the station number and a sample-type code. These numbers are used to track samples from
collection to inclusion in the final National database.
3.2 Station and Sample Numbers
Because Coastal 2000 is a large-scale national monitoring program being implemented by
many agencies with data feeding into a centralized database, it is critical that all stations and
samples be assigned unique identifiers. All information sent to the national database must be
associated with a station using the C2000 convention. Station names will include the state in
which the station is located, the year of sampling, and a number. The format adopted is as
follows:
SSYY-XXXX
Where,
SS is the state where the station is located,
YY is the last two digits of the year (00 for year 2000), and
XXXX is a four-digit incremental identifier, beginning at 0001.
So, for example, the first 35 stations in Massachusetts, New Hampshire, and Maine, sampled
in year 2000 would be identified as:
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MAOO-0001 to MAOO-0035
NHOO-0001 to MAOO-0035
MEOO-0001 to MAOO-0035
Note that were one state entity will be sampling in another states waters, the station number is
based on the "location" not the organization conducting the sampling. This is likely to occur when
one state will be responsible for an entire water body even though portions fall within the
neighboring state's jurisdiction.
Sample numbers will be made up of the station code with a sample type identifier attached to
the end. Sample number formats are illustrated in Table 2. All sample information sent to the
national database must use this format.
3.3 Use of Bar Codes
The use of bar codes to label samples is highly recommended. Ten years of experience with
EMAP has demonstrated their utility. Bar codes are preprinted for every sample that might be
collected during the sampling season, with side-by-side duplicates for each sample, by a
professional service. Each label contains both the bar code itself, and the printed sample
number. Labels are waterproof and do not come off when frozen or immersed in formalin.
When a sample is collected, one of duplicate labels is placed on the sample and the other on
the datasheet. When the data are transcribed from the datasheet into the computer, the sample
numbers need not be typed in. They can just be scanned with a bar code reader. This virtually
eliminates transcription error.
Bar codes also make shipping of samples easier. As a sample is placed in the shipping
container, the sample ID is scanned into the computer. A packing list can then be printed out for
inclusion with the shipment.
3.4 Electronic Data Entry
All information recorded on the datasheets must be entered into a computer for eventual
transfer to the national database. This should be done as soon as possible, while the sampling
event is "fresh" in the crew's mind. It is the responsibility of the chief scientist to ensure the
accuracy of the electronic data file.
One method to facilitate this process is to use form-filler software. This software can be used
to design and print hard-copy datasheets, and to create an identical electronic form. Having the
computer screen as an exact copy of the field forms facilitates data entry. QA is easier as the
completed electronic form can be printed out for side-by-side comparison with the original field
form.
C20000-NE can provide both the field and electronic datasheets to any participate desiring
them. The participant would only need to purchase the appropriate commercial software to
access the C2000-NE electronic forms.
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Table 2 Sample numbers assigned to each sample type. Sample number consists of the station number (state/year -
number, e.g., RIOO-0001 for Rhode Island, year 2000, station 1) followed by a sample type code. The list below uses
station RIOO-0001 as an example. For QA samples, the state identifier is replaced with "QA" and the station
designator is sequential rather than being associated with a given station. The link is made in the database.
Sample Type
Type Code
Example Sample Number
Bar-Coded?
CTD Cast
Light measurement (PAR) profile
Surface chlorophyll
Surface suspended solids
Surface dissolved nutrients
Mid-depth chlorophyll
Mid-depth suspended solids
Mid-depth dissolved nutrients
Bottom chlorophyll
Bottom suspended solids
Bottom dissolved nutrients
Benthic infauna (1)
Benthic infauna (2)
Benthic infauna (3)
Sediment Toxicity
Sediment grain size
Sediment Organics
Sediment Metals
Sediment TOC
Standard fish trawl
Non-standard fish trawl
Fish chem. species 1 composite
Fish chem. species 1 individuals
Fish chem. species 2 composite
Fish chem. species 2 individuals
"Other" sample type 1
"Other" sample type 2
CTD
PAR
SCL
SSS
SN
MCL
MSS
MN
BCL
BSS
BN
BI1
BI2
BIS
ST
SG
SO
SM
OC
STRL
TRL
FC1
FC1-1 toFC1-9
FC2
FC2-1 to FC2-9
OTH-1
OTH-2
RIOO-0001-CTD
RIOO-0001-PAR
RIOO-0001-SCL
RIOO-0001-SSS
RIOO-0001-SN
RIOO-0001-MCL
RIOO-0001-MSS
RIOO-0001-MN
RIOO-0001-BCL
RIOO-0001-BSS
RIOO-0001-BN
RIOO-0001-BI1
RIOO-0001-BI2
RIOO-0001-BI3
RIOO-0001-ST
RIOO-0001-SG
RIOO-0001-SO
RIOO-0001-SM
RIOO-0001-OC
RIOO-0001-STRL
RIOO-0001-TRL
RIOO-0001-FC1
RIOO-0001-FC1-1
To RIOO-0001-FC1-9
RIOO-0001-FC2
RIOO-0001-FC2-1
To RIOO-0001-FC2-9
RIOO-0001-OTH-1
RIOO-0001-OTH-2
Quality Assurance Samples (full range of sample numbers given for C2000-Northeast)
Fish pathology QA
Chlorophyll QA
Dissolved nutrients QA
TSSQA
PATH
CL
N
SS
QAOO-0001-PATH
To QAOO-0500-PATH
QAOO-0001-CL
To QAOO-0300-CL
QAOO-0001-N
To QAOO-0300-N
QAOO-0001-SS
To QAOO-0300-SS
N
N
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
N
N
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
Y
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SECTION 4
WATER QUALITY MEASUREMENTS
One of the activities to be performed at every station is the collection of water quality
information (salinity, temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen [DO]). At every station a vertical
profile through the water column is obtained using a profiling instrument. Listed below are
instructions for crews using the Hydrolab DataSondeS datalogger (referred to as either "Hydrolab"
or "DataSonde") attached to a Surveyor 4 deck unit. This is the equipment used by AED field
crews. The protocols following are excerpted from past EMAP-Virginian Province field manuals.
This section describes the instrument and data collection procedures. Similar procedures should
be followed by field crews using other instruments.
Included in this section is the operation of a YSI model 58 DO meter. Protocols require a
duplicate measurement, using a different instrument or method, at each station for the purpose of
Quality Assurance. Winkler titrations are recommended for crews experienced with this
procedure. If this wet chemistry method is not practical, a duplicate surface measurement can be
made with a separate properly-calibrated DO meter. For the data to be acceptable, both values
must agree to within 0.5 mg/L.
4.1 Hydrolab DatasondeS® unit
Obtaining a vertical profile of the water column using a Hydrolab DatasondeS® or similar unit is
one of the first activities performed at every station. A Hydrolab is a sophisticated instrument
designed to collect high-quality data for salinity, temperature, dissolved oxygen (DO)
concentration, pH, and water depth. At each station the instrument will be used as a CTD
(instrument that measures Conductivity, Temperature, and Depth - in this case, also measures pH
and DO) to obtain a vertical profile of water column conditions. Training of all personnel expected
to operate this instrument is necessary to assure reliable operation and acceptable data.
Below are general instructions for calibrating and deploying these units.
4.1.1 Setup and Calibration
The following is a brief summary of the calibration of the Hydrolab. The manual should be
referred to for detailed instructions and should be read prior to calibration. During calibration, the
Datasonde unit should be attached to the gel pack battery to conserve the unit's internal battery
supply. Calibration should be performed every morning prior to the start of sampling.
1. To calibrate the Hydrolab Datasonde units, the software package "Procomm" will be
used. Attach the DataSonde unit to the computer with the data cable, making sure the
computer is reading from the correct port (com 2 on AED "Rocky" laptops) and at a baud
rate of 9600bps. The first time you calibrate the Hydrolab, you will have to select the
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parameters that C2000 will be using and remove any other parameters (in order to save
memory and battery power). Once you are in Procomm, lines of data will be displayed (if
this is not the case check the battery or refer to the manual). Pull up the menu by
depressing the space bar. To select the parameters hit 'P'.
2. You can now add the following parameters by hitting the letter in parentheses for each
parameter and then choosing E for (E)nable. The parameters that need to be added are:
(P)H
(S)alinity
D(0)
(%) Sat
(D)epth/Level
(B)attery
3. Then remove the following parameters by choosing (D)isable:
Specific (C)onductance/Resistivity
(R)edox
4.1.2 Calibration of the salinity sensor
The salinity sensor will be calibrated against a sample of seawater that has a known salinity
[from a high quality laboratory salinometer calibrated with IAPSO Standard Seawater (a.k.a.
"Copenhagen" water)]. The Hydrolab will always be equipped with the salt water cell block.
Rinse the sensor & calibration cup 3 times with a small amount of the salinity standard (shaking
vigorously with the calibration cap in place). Fill the calibration cup to within a centimeter of the
cup's edge and make sure there are no bubbles in the conductivity cell block. From the Calibrate
menu, choose (S)alinity and enter the standard value in parts per thousand.
4.1.3 Calibration of the pH sensor
Rinse the sensors and calibration cup thoroughly with deionized water prior to and following
filling the cup with the standard pH buffers. Fill the calibration cup with the pH 7 standard buffer.
Wait until the reading stabilizes to hit the space key, access the calibrate menu and enter the pH
value. Now finish calibrating the pH sensor using the pH 10 standard. It is important that there is
not a lot of drift in the measurement before entering the calibration standard value. If you cannot
get the readings to stabilize, it is time to clean the sensors and check the battery power.
4.1.4 Calibration of the Dissolved Oxygen sensor
The calibration of the dissolved oxygen sensor is highly sensitive to the maintenance of the
sensor itself. To make the calibration process go more smoothly, it is important to examine the
DO membrane and make sure it is has not dried out, become damaged or dirty, that there are no
bubbles in the electrolyte, and that you have waited at least 12 hours (preferably 24 hours)
after changing a membrane to calibrate.
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With the unit turned upside down, fill the calibration cup with ambient room temperature tap
water (or Dl) to the 0-ring line on the DO sensor, making sure all of the sensors have been well
rinsed prior to this. Tightly put the calibration cap on and shake the unit to aerate the water.
Remove the cap on the calibration cup and, using the corner of a kimwipe, remove all water
droplets from the membrane surface. Put the calibration cap on (upside down). Wait for the
readings to stabilize, and then depress the space key to access the calibration menu. Enter
760mm for the barometric pressure (if a barometer is available the exact pressure can be
entered, but the range at sea level has only a minimal effect on the calculated DO reading), and
then enter the DO percent saturation (100% for the standard membrane).
4.2 Obtaining Hydrolab Profile
At each station, the general procedures for collection of data are as follows:
1 Connect the Hydrolab to the end of the winch cable with a shackle and TIGHTEN THE PIN.
Make sure a "pinger" is attached to the unit. A 50 pound weight should be hanging
approximately 0.5 meter below the unit, and one float (sufficient buoyancy to float the
Hydrolab without the weight) attached to the top. This will prevent the unit from impacting the
bottom.
2. Remove the protective cover from the probes and connect the stirrer.
3. Connect the unit to the Surveyor 4 deck unit and initialize logging.
4. Connect the stirrer to the upper bulkhead connector.
5. Lower the unit over the side and allow it to equilibrate at the surface for at least two minutes
after the unit begins logging.
6. While the unit is equilibrating, lower a YSI probe (see Section 4.3) with stirrer over the side to
the same depth as the Hydrolab. Record the reading from the YSI on the CTD datasheet.
This serves as a Quality Control check on the operation of the Hydrolab. A surface salinity
and temperature should also be obtained with a refractometer and the YSI meter or
thermometer, respectively.
Make sure that the Hydrolab surface readings agree with those from the QC check (e.g., the
DO readings must agree to within 0.5 mg/L). If they agree, continue with the cast. If they do
not agree, recalibrate the YSI and obtain another surface reading. If they then agree, continue
with the cast. If they do not, try another Hydrolab.
7. Lower the Hydrolab according to the following schedule:
Shallow sites ( 2 m) - every 0.5 m interval;
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Nominal depths (>2<10 m) - 0.5 m (near-surface) and every 1-m interval to near-bottom
(0.5 m off-bottom);
Deep sites (>10 m) - 0.5 m (near-surface) and every 1-m interval to 10 m, then at 5-m
intervals, thereafter, to near-bottom (0.5 m off-bottom).
Allow the unit to stabilize at each stop during descent. Save the data from each depth on the
Surveyor unit and record the values on the Hydrographic Data Sheet. Once the weight hits
the bottom the unit will float 0.5 meter above.
8. Repeat the process on the upcast.
9. Connect the Surveyor to the computer and download the data (this can be done back at the
dock). The file should be saved as "XXOOxxxxctd.csv" where XXOOxxxx is the station number
(e.g., MAOOOOOIctd.csv).
4.3 YSI Model 58 Dissolved Oxygen Meter and Probe
The YSI will be used to take oxygen measurements at the surface as a Quality Control check
on the Hydrolab. The following information details the maintenance and operation of the YSI
Model 58 Dissolved Oxygen Meter.
4.3.1 Initial Setup of The YSI
1. The YSI Model 58 has two separate sets of batteries, one for the oxygen meter and the
other for the stirrer. Both sets consist of 4 D-size Alkaline batteries. These are accessed
by removing the four screws on the back panel then carefully pulling the meter back
away. The upper battery holder is for the oxygen meter, the lower holder for the stirrer
batteries. Note that the stirrer batteries will probably require more frequent replacement,
whereas the meter batteries will most likely last throughout the entire field season.
Observe correct polarity whenever changing batteries in either holder.
2. When the YSI meter batteries are low, the LOWBAT warning will show continuously on
the display (the LOWBAT warning may flash momentarily as the meter knob is turned off,
but this is normal). The initial appearance of LOWBAT indicates about 50 hours of meter
battery life. The normal life for the meter batteries is about 1000 hours.
To check the YSI stirrer batteries, turn and hold the STIRRER knob to the BATT CHK
position. If the LOWBAT warning shows continuously on the display then the stirrer
batteries should be changed. The initial appearance of the LOWBAT warning in the
BATT CHK position indicates 5 hours or less of stirrer battery life. The normal life for the
stirrer batteries is about 100 hours.
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3. While the meter is still open, observe the position of the sliding switch in the upper right
hand corner of the meter. This switch sets the meter sensitivity for the type of membrane
on the oxygen probe. The switch should be in the middle position, set for a 1 mil
("standard") membrane.
4. Close the meter housing and gently tighten the corner screws. DO NOT OVER
TIGHTEN these screws, as they are easily stripped. As you close the meter, work the
rubber gasket so that the outer edge overlaps both halves of the housing.
4.3.2 Changing the YSI Probe Membrane
The procedure for changing the YSI probe membrane is similar to that for the Hydrolab
membrane. However there are some differences, so it's important to be familiar with both
procedures. The YSI membrane should be changed weekly, or sooner if the probe is difficult to
calibrate or is slow to respond. Visual inspection is the best indication of when to change the
membrane: if the membrane is fouled, wrinkled, cut, has bubbles underneath it, or the gold
cathode is tarnished...then it's time. Try to schedule membrane replacement at the end of a field
day, or the night before. This allows the membrane more time to "relax" and equilibrate.
1. Prepare the electrolyte by dissolving the KCI crystals in the dropper bottle with distilled
water. Fill the bottle to the top.
2. Unscrew the sensor guard, and remove the 0-ring and membrane. Rinse the sensor with
distilled water and then with electrolyte. Gently wipe the gold cathode ring with a kimwipe
or paper towel.
3. Fill the sensor with electrolyte. If you're right-handed, grasp the sensor in your left hand
with the pressure compensating vent to the right. Successively fill the sensor body with
electrolyte, then pump the diaphragm with the ERASER end of a pencil or with some
similar soft, blunt tool. Continue filling and pumping until no more air bubbles appear.
Tap the sensor with the pencil to free any bubbles trapped on the sides.
4. Remove a membrane from the "standard membrane" package (DO NOT use the
Hydrolab membranes - they are different). Secure the membrane under your left thumb.
Add a few more drops of electrolyte to the sensor to form a meniscus over the gold
cathode.
5. With the thumb and forefinger of your other hand, grasp the free end of the membrane.
6. Using a continuous motion, stretch the membrane UP, OVER, and DOWN the other side
of the sensor. Stretching forms the membrane to the contour of the probe.
7. Secure the end of the membrane under the forefinger of the hand holding the probe.
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8. Set the 0-ring on the membrane above the probe, and using your thumb and index
finger, roll the 0-ring down over the probe until it is seated. Try not to touch the
membrane surface while doing this. Gently tug at the exposed corners to remove all
wrinkles, then trim away the excess membrane below the 0-ring and replace the sensor
guard. Inspect the membrane to make sure there are no bubbles, wrinkles, or cuts.
9. The probe should be stored in the open-ended plastic bottle provided for that purpose.
Moisten the sponge or paper towel in the end of the storage bottle to prevent the
membrane from drying out. The membrane needs to relax for a minimum of 12 hours
following installation.
4.3.3 Calibration of the YSI Oxygen Meter
The YSI should be calibrated before sampling at EACH station, and the meter and attached
probe should be turned on for at least 10 minutes prior to calibration or sampling. In practice this
means turning the meter on at the beginning of the day and leaving it on (with the possible
exception of very long transit periods between stations). On field days when the probe is not
being used leave the meter in the % switch positions (or, in the case of the model 57, in the 0-10
MG/L position).
1. Calibration will be done in the probe storage/calibration chamber. Confirm that a moist
piece of towel or sponge is present in the bottle. Remove any water droplets from the
membrane surface by drying with the corner of a paper towel.
2. Set the function switch to ZERO, and when the display reading has stabilized, readjust
display to read 0.00.
3. Reset the function switch to % mode. When the display reading has stabilized, unlock
the 02 CALIB control locking ring and adjust the display to read 100%. Relock the
locking ring to prevent inadvertent changes. Avoid exposing the calibrated probe to large
thermal changes, such as from direct sunlight or lying on a hot deck.
4.3.4 Operation of the YSI Oxygen Meter
In general the YSI will be used to confirm the proper operation of the CTD.
1. Calibrate the YSI (See above; Section 4.3.3).
2. Remove the storage/calibration chamber and the sensor guard, and CAREFULLY screw
the probe into the stirrer. The probe membrane should NOT touch the stirrer blades.
Membrane damage occurs most often when the probe is being inserted or removed from
the stirrer. If a measurement isn't to be taken immediately, wrap the stirrer-probe unit in
a moist towel and set it out of the sun.
3. Set the function switch to 0.01 MG/L mode.
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4. To perform a surface YSI check place the probe next to the CTD DO probe with the
stirrer ON. Set the YSI salinity from refractometer reading. Record temperature from a
thermometer, and DO from the YSI on the "CTD CAST DATA SHEET".
5. If using the Hydrolab to obtain a bottom water dissolved oxygen concentration:
A. Collect a bottom water sample in the GO-FLO bottle.
B. Draw out a small sample from the bottle and measure the salinity using the
refractometer. Set the SALINITY switch to this value, and record the salinity on
the "CTD CAST DATA SHEET".
C. Prop open the Go-Flo bottle. A Hydrolab sensor guard without the weight works
well for this.
D. Insert the stirrer-probe unit into the GO-FLO bottle and turn the stirrer ON.
E. When the meter reading has stabilized, record the oxygen value on the "CTD
CAST DATA SHEET".
F. Remove the probe, turn the stirrer OFF, rinse the probe with freshwater, replace
the storage bottle, and store the unit out of sunlight.
4.4 Light Attenuation
C2000-NE crews will also obtain a vertical profile of light for the purpose of calculation of the
light attenuation coefficient at each station. This can be accomplished using either a PAR
(photosynthetically active radiation) meter or a transmissometer. This profile can be obtained in
conjunction with the CTD profile or separately, depending upon the equipment available. PAR
sensors require no field calibration, however, they should be returned to the manufacturer prior to
each field season for annual calibration.
To obtain a PAR profile using an independent datalogger such as the LI-COR LI-1400:
1. Connect a deck sensor and an underwater sensor to the LI-1400. Make sure the correct
calibration factors are entered for each probe. These are supplied by the manufacturer.
2. Place the deck sensor on the boat in a location where it will is not shaded.
3. Lower the underwater sensor on the SUNNY (or at least unshaded) side of the boat to a depth
of about 10 cm (represents "surface").
4. Once readings stabilize, record the values from both sensors (uE/m2/s), along with the water
depth of the underwater sensor, on the datasheet. Log the values in the datalogger.
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5. Lower the underwater sensor to 0.5 meters, allow the values to stabilize, and record the
values from both sensors, along with the water depth of the underwater surface.
6. Repeat at the following schedule:
Shallow sites ( 2 m) - every 0.5 m interval;
Nominal depths (>2<10 m) - 0.5 m (near-surface) and every 1-m interval to near-bottom (0.5
m off-bottom);
Deep sites (>10 m) - 0.5 m (near-surface) and every 1-m interval to 10 m, then at 5-m
intervals, thereafter, to near-bottom (0.5 m off-bottom).
7. If the bottom is impacted with the meter, allow 2-3 minutes for the disturbed conditions to
settle before taking the reading.
8. If the light measurements become negative before reaching the bottom, terminate the profile
at that depth.
9. Repeat the process on the upcast.
4.5 Secchi Depth
The Secchi disk is used to give a measurement of the transparency of the water column, also
called the secchi depth. This measurement is made at every station and is recorded on the CTD
datasheet. A 20 cm black and white Secchi disk is held by a non-stretch line that is marked in two
tenths of a meter intervals. To determine the Secchi depth:
1. Slowly lower the Secchi disk on the shady side of the boat until it is no longer visible and note
the depth using the markings on the line (interpolate between markings to the nearest 0.1
meter). If the disk hits the bottom, meaning the Secchi depth is greater than the water depth,
note this on the datasheet.
2. Slowly raise the Secchi disk until it just becomes visible and note the depth.
3. Perform steps 1 and 2 three times, noting both readings. Record the average of the readings.
QUALITY CONTROL FOR SECCHI DISK
1. If the range of measurements for the three sets of depth readings is greater than 0.5 m, the
entire process should be performed again.
2. No sunglasses or any other devices should be used to shade the eyes while this procedure is
being performed.
3. The Secchi depth should be determined from the shady side of the boat during daylight hours.
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SECTION 5
WATER COLUMN NUTRIENTS
Water samples will be collected at each site and analyzed for:
Chlorophyll a
Dissolved ammonia, nitrites, nitrates, orthophosphates, and
Total Suspended Solids.
Samples should be collected at three depths; surface, mid-water, and bottom, depending upon
the depth of the water:
Shallow sites (< 2 m) - mid-depth sample only;
Nominal depths (2-5 m) - 0.5 m (near-surface) and 1 m off-bottom;
Deep sites (>5 m) - 0.5 m (near-surface), mid-depth, and 1 m off-bottom.
Water samples should be obtained, either using a pumped system or a water sampling bottle
such as a Niskin or 5 Go-Flo® bottle, and transferred to a rinsed (3x with water from the sampling
bottle) one gallon HOPE container.
5.1 Chlorophyll a and Phaeophytin
Chlorophyll samples must be filtered no more than 4 hours after collection. Any further delay is
strongly discouraged due to the possible lysis of phytoplankton cells. Samples that cannot be
filtered immediately after collection must be held at 4°C until filtered. Filtering can be
accomplished by either of two methods. The first requires the use of a vacuum pump, either
electric or hand operated. The second uses positive pressure. The method used must be noted
on the datasheet.
5.1.1 Vacuum filtration
Immediately concentrate the algae by filtering onto two 47 mm GF/F filter pads. Process a
sufficient amount of sample (i.e. 100-1,500 ml) to produce a green color on the filter. Record the
volume filtered on the datasheet. The filtrate should be saved for dissolved nutrient analyses
(Section 4.2). To avoid cell damage and loss of contents during filtering, do not exceed a vacuum
of 15 psi or a filtration duration of greater than 5 minutes. Add 1 ml of saturated MgC03 solution
(10 mg/L) during the last few seconds of filtering AFTER THE NUTRIENT FILTRATE HAS BEEN
REMOVED. This buffers the sample to reduce the possibility of degradation. Carefully remove
the filters using forceps (never touch the filter with your fingers), fold in half, and wrap in clean
aluminum foil. Mark both the volume filtered and the sample number (SCL, MCL, BCL: surface,
mid, or bottom chlorophyll) on the foil. Place both filters in a whirl pak and affix the appropriate
bar code or hand-write the sample number. Place the package on dry ice.
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Note that filter funnels should be rinse with Dl water prior to filtration. In addition, graduated
cylinders should be rinsed with site water.
If too much sample is filtered (i.e., there is a thick layer of material on the filter pad), it should
be discarded and the filtration repeated with a smaller volume. Too much material may result in
some "oozing out" when the pad is folded.
5.1.2 Positive pressure filtration
The alternative method is to use positive pressure to push a sample through the filter. A
disposable, graduated 50-cc polypropylene syringe fitted with a stainless steel or polypropylene
filtering assembly is used to filter the site water through 25 mm GF/F filters; the volume of water
filtered must be documented. If conditions allow (based on the suspended solids load), up to 200
ml of site water should be filtered for each chlorophyll sample; for a 50-cc syringe, that equates to
4 fills. To refill when the syringe barrel empties, carefully detach the filter assembly and fill the
syringe to the mark, replace the filter and continue with the filtration until the desired volume has
been processed. The filtrate from this process is saved for the analysis of dissolved nutrients
(see Section 4.2). After filtering the sample, add 1 ml of saturated MgC03 solution (10 mg/L) to
the syringe (AFTER THE NUTRIENT FILTRATE HAS BEEN REMOVED) and pass this through
the filter pad. This buffers the sample to reduce the possibility of degradation. Using tweezers,
carefully remove the filter from its holder and fold once on the pigment side, then place it in foil as
described in 4.1.1. Record the volume of water filtered on both the foil and on the field form. Mark
the sample number on the foil pack, then place the foil pack in a whirlpack and label the whirlpack
with the appropriate bar code. Place on dry ice. Repeat the filtering process for the second
sample and store filter in the same whirlpack containing the first sample. The samples must
remain frozen until time of analysis. Discard the used syringe. Rinse the filtering assembly with
deionized water and store in a clean compartment between sampling stations (a small tackle box
makes a good carrying kit for supplies and equipment used in this activity).
5.2 Dissolved Nutrients
Approximately 40 ml of filtrate from the above chlorophyll filtration will be collected into a
prelabeled, clean 60-ml Nalgene screw-capped bottle and stored on dry ice. Before placing
sample in the freezer, affix the appropriate bar code to the bottle and record the approximate
salinity (±2 ppt) on the container. This is a convenience for the analyst who will perform the
nutrient analysis. Depending on the analytical instrumentation used, matrix matching of solutions
(e.g., standards or wash solutions) may be required for certain of the analytes. The salinity value
can be obtained from the water column data or by refractometer reading of the actual water
sample taken by sampling bottle. The nutrient samples should remain frozen until time of
analysis.
5.3 Total Suspended Solids
Approximately 1 liter of unfiltered seawaterfrom the sampling bottle is poured into a 1-L
polypropylene bottle and stored at 4°C to await laboratory analysis.
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5.4 Quality Control
Field duplicates: A field duplicate is a sample taken at the same location and depth as a
regular sample and processed for chlorophyll, nutrients, and total suspended solids. The
duplicate and sample should be taken in quick succession. A field duplicate should be collected
once for every 10 samples. The data from field duplicates indicates sampling precision.
Although some filtering may be done on shore, many times it will be necessary to filter while
on the boat. Working with liquids on a rocking boat presents many opportunities for
contamination, and therefore, special care must be taken. The following guidelines will help
prevent accidents while working with the water samples:
1. After every station empty the overflow bottle and all reservoirs.
2. Rinse the filtering apparatus with Dl water before putting in a new filter.
3. Only handle filters with tweezers.
4. All filters should be inspected and damaged filters should be discarded.
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SECTION 6
SEDIMENT COLLECTIONS
6.1 Sediment Collections
Sediments are collected for a variety of analyses. Three samples are collected for benthic
species composition and abundance (although only one will be analyzed this year - the remaining
two will be archived for future analysis as funding becomes available); and additional sediment
grabs are collected for chemical analyses, grain size determination, and for use in acute toxicity
tests. The number of grabs needed may vary based on the sediment characteristics. To minimize
the possibility of biasing results, benthic biology grabs should not be collected consecutively, but
rather interspersed among the chemistry/toxicity grabs. While a biology grab is being processed
(sieved), grabs should be collected for chemistry/toxicity.
A 1/25 (0.04) m2, stainless steel, Young-modified Van Veen Grab sampler is used to collect
sediments. The sampler is constructed entirely of stainless steel and has been Kynar®-coated
(similar to Teflon) and is therefore appropriate for collecting sediment samples for both biological
and chemical analyses. The top of the sampler is hinged so the top layer of sediment can be
easily removed for chemical and toxicity analyses. This gear is relatively easy to operate and
requires little specialized training.
Other gear is also acceptable, following approval by the C2000-NE Field Coordinator. The
gear size must be identified on the appropriate datasheet.
Listed below is the protocol for obtaining sediment samples.
1. The sampler must be thoroughly washed with Alconox prior to use at a station, then
rinsed with ambient seawater to ensure no sediments remain from the previous station.
2. Attach the sampler to the end of the winch cable with a shackle and tighten the pin.
Attach a pinger to the grab.
3. Cock the grab.
4. Lower the grab sampler through the water column such that travel through the last 5
meters is no faster than about 1 m/sec. This minimizes the effects of bow wave
disturbance to surficial sediments.
5. Retrieve the sampler and lower it into its cradle on-board. Open the hinged top and
determine whether the sample is successful or not. A successful grab is one having
relatively level, intact sediment over the entire area of the grab, and a sediment depth at
the center of at least 7 centimeters (see Figure 2). Grabs containing no sediments,
partially filled grabs, or grabs with shelly substrates or grossly slumped surfaces are
unacceptable. Grabs completely filled to the top, where the sediment is in direct contact
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with the hinged top, are also unacceptable. It may take several attempts using different
amounts of weight to obtain the first acceptable sample. The more weight added, the
deeper the bite of the grab. In very soft mud, pads may be needed to prevent the
sampler from sinking in the mud. If pads are used, the rate of descent near the bottom
should be slowed even further to reduce the bow wave.
6. Carefully drain overlying water from the grab. If the grab is used for benthic community
analysis, the water must be drained into the container that will receive the sediment to
ensure no organisms are lost.
7. Enter notes on the condition of the sample (smell, texture, presence of organisms on the
surface, etc.) on the data sheet.
8. Process the grab sample for either benthic community analysis or chemistry/toxicity
testing as described in Figure 3 and in Sections 6.2 and 6.3.
9. Repeat steps 4-8 until all samples are collected. To minimize the chance of sampling the
exact same location twice, the boat engines can be turned periodically to change the drift
of the boat, or additional anchor line can be let out.
6.2 Field Processing of Samples for Benthic Community Assessment
Grab samples to be used in the assessment of macrobenthic communities are processed in
the following manner:
1. Assign a sample number to the sample; affix the bar coded labels to the sample jar and
datasheet.
2. Measure the depth of the sediment at the middle of the sampler and record the value on
the data sheet. The depth should be >7 cm. Record descriptive information about the
grab, such as the presence or absence of a surface floe, color and smell of surface
sediments, and visible fauna in the computer.
3. Dump the sediment into a basin and then into a 0.5 mm mesh sieve. Place the sieve into
a table (sieve box) containing water from the sampling station. Agitate the tray in the
sieve box thus washing away sediments and leaving organisms, detritus, sand particles,
and pebbles larger than 0.5 mm. This method minimizes mechanical damage to fauna
that is common when forceful jets of water are used to break up sediments. A gentle flow
of water over the sample is acceptable. Extreme care must be taken to assure that no
sample is lost over the side of the sieve.
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Acceptable grab
At least 7 cm deep with even surface
Unacceptable grab
Sloping surface
Unacceptable grab
Insufficient volume
Unacceptable grab
Wash-out
Unacceptable grab
Overfilled
Figure 2. Illustration of acceptable and unacceptable grabs for benthic community analysis. An
acceptable grab is at least 7 cm in depth (using a 0.04m2 Van Veen sampler), but not
oozing out of the top of the grab, and has a relatively level surface.
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Obtain Sediment Grab Samples
Evaluate Each for Acceptability
Log Notes on Appearance of Grab
Benthic Biology
Measure Depth at
Center of Grab
Dump all
Sediment into Bucket
Sieve Through
0.5mm Sieve
Rinse Organisms into Container
(fill to no more than 700 cc)
Inspect Sieve for Organisms
Add Appropriate Amount of
Formalin and Seawaterto
Result in Final Cone, of
10% Formalin.
Add Teaspoon of Buffer
| Store |
I on Ice I
Chemistry/Toxicity
Remove top 2 cm
from each grab and place in
stainless steel bowl
Between Grabs Keep Bowl
Covered and on ice
Continue Collections Until
4 liters of Sediment
are Collected
Stir Sediment 5-10
Minutes to Homogenize
250 cc in Glass Jar
for ORGANICS
100 cc in Plastic Jar
for METALS
100 cc in Glass
Jar for TOC
3,000 cc in Plastic Jar
for Toxicity
100ccin Plastic Jar
for Grain Size
Figure 3. Flow chart for C2000-NE sediment collection and field processing.
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4. Drain the water from the sieve box and gently rinse the contents of the tray to one edge.
Using either your fingers or a spoon, GENTLY scoop up the bulk of the sample and place
it in the plastic screw-top bottle labeled in Step 1 (which should be placed in the sieve or
a bucket in case some of the sample spills over). Rinse the outside of the sample jar into
the sieve, then, using a funnel, rinse the contents into the jar. The jar should be filled no
higher than the 700 ml mark. If the quantity of sample exceeds 700 ml, place the
remainder of the sample in a second, unlabeled container. Using a waterproof marker,
write the sample number on the second container and tape the two together. Note on the
datasheet that the sample consists of more than one container.
6. Carefully inspect the sieve to ensure that all organisms are removed. Use fine forceps (if
necessary) to transfer fauna from the sieve to the bottle containing the proper sample
number.
7. Ten percent buffered formalin is used to fix and preserve samples. A 100 % buffered,
stained stock formalin solution should be mixed according to the recipe in Table 3. 100
ml of the formalin should be added to each sample jar, and a teaspoon-full of borax
added to assure saturation of the buffer. FILL THE JAR TO THE RIM WITH
SEAWATER TO ELIMINATE ANY AIR SPACE. This eliminates the problem of
organisms sticking to the cap because of sloshing during shipment. Gently invert the
bottle to mix the contents and place in the dark. If the sample occupies more than one
container, tape all the sample bottles containing material from that grab together.
8. Prior to sieving the next sample, use copious amounts of forceful water and a stiff brush
to clean the sieve, thereby minimizing cross-contamination of samples.
Table 3. Directions for mixing stock solutions of formalin.
Volume Total
Chemical Desired Quantity
100% formalin stock (stained and buffered)
Rose Bengal stain 8 L 1/4 teaspoon
Borax 8 L 8 heaping tablespoons
100% formalin 8 L two gallons
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6.3 Field Processing of Sediments for Chemistry and Toxicity Testing
In addition to the three grabs collected for benthic community analyses, additional grabs are
collected for chemical analyses and toxicity testing. The top two cm of these grabs are removed,
homogenized, and split for chemistry and toxicity testing. Because of contamination concerns
these samples are removed and processed in the order described below:
1. As each grab is retrieved, carefully examine it to determine acceptability. The grab is
considered acceptable as long as the surface layer is intact. The grab need not be
greater than 7 cm in depth for chemistry samples, but the other criteria illustrated in
Figure 2 apply. Carefully drain off, or siphon, any overlying water, and remove and
discard large, non-living surface items such as rocks or pieces of wood.
NOTE: Great care must be taken to avoid contamination of this sample from
atmospheric contaminants. The boat engine should be turned off or the boat
maneuvered to assure the exhaust is down wind.
2. A clean stainless steel or teflon spoon is used to remove sediments from grab samples
for these analyses. All items must be washed with Alconox and rinsed with ambient
seawater before use.
3. Remove the top two cm of sediment using the stainless steel spoon. Place the sediment
removed in a stainless pot and place the pot in a cooler on ice (NOT dry ice). The
sample must be stored at 4°C, NOT FROZEN.
4. Repeat this procedure, compositing the sediment in the same stainless pot until a
sufficient quantity of sediment has been collected for all samples (approximately 4 L).
Stir sediment homogenate after every addition to the composite to ensure adequate
mixing. Keep the container covered and in the cooler between grabs.
5. Homogenize the sediment by stirring with a Teflon paddle or stainless steel spoon for 10
minutes.
6. ORGANICS - Using a stainless steel spoon, carefully place 250 cc of sediment in a 500
ml glass bottle for chemical analysis. CARE MUST BE TAKEN TO ASSURE THAT THE
INSIDE OF THE BOTTLE, BOTTLE CAP, AND THE SAMPLE ARE NOT
CONTAMINATED. Record the sample number, wrap the jar in "bubble wrap" to protect it
from breakage, and place the sample on ice (NOT dry ice). To reduce the possibility of
breakage, the sample should be stored at 4°C, NOT FROZEN.
7. METALS - Using a stainless steel spoon, place approximately 100cc of sediment into a
pre-cleaned plastic (HOPE) sampling jar. Record the sample number and keep on ice at
4°C.
8. Total Organic Carbon - Using a stainless steel spoon, place approximately 100cc of
sediment into a pre-cleaned glass sampling jar. Record the sample number and keep on
ice at 4°C.
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9. SEDIMENT GRAIN SIZE - Using a stainless steel spoon, place approximately 100cc of
sediment into a clean plastic (HOPE) sampling jar. Record the sample number and keep
on ice at 4°C. Store this sample on ice (NOT dry ice).
10. SEDIMENT TOXICITY - Using the stainless steel spoon, fill approximately 75-85% of the
1 gallon plastic container for toxicity testing with sediment (minimum volume required is
3000 ml). Record the sample number on the bottle, and place the sample on ice (NOT
dry ice). The sample must be stored at 4°C, NOT FROZEN.
6.4 Quality Control/Quality Assurance
6.4.1 Chemistry samples
There are a number of steps that can be taken to ensure the integrity of the samples collected.
1. The interior surfaces of the grab sampler (including the underside of the hinged top) must
be washed with a laboratory-grade detergent and thoroughly rinsed prior to use to assure
that no sediment remains from the previous station.
2. Prior to use, all Teflon and stainless steel supplies which are to come into contact with
samples must also be properly cleaned. Once washed, crews must take precautions to
assure that they do not become contaminated (e.g., by laying the stainless steel spoon
on the deck).
3. As soon as any of the stainless spoons or bowls begin to rust they should be discarded.
Equipment made from high-quality stainless steel will reduce the rate at which equipment
needs to be replaced.
4. ASSURE THAT THE PROPER LABELS (e.g., BAR CODES) ARE AFFIXED TO ALL
SAMPLES.
5. Excess seawater should be carefully drained from the surface of the grab by "cracking"
the sampler slightly or siphoning off the water.
6. All grabs used in the composite must meet the criteria for an acceptable grab. It is
especially important to make sure that the surface sediments did not wash out of the
sampler.
7. Care should be taken to assure that the sediment saved for chemical and toxicological
analyses is collected only from the top two cm of the grab.
8. Care must be taken to assure that the chemistry samples do not become contaminated.
This requires great care in extracting the sample, homogenizing it, and placing it in the
proper container. Because of the potential for contamination, the chemistry samples
should be the first ones removed from the homogenate. If it is raining when the sample
is collected, all activities should be conducted under a tarp to prevent contamination of
the sample by rain water.
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9. Great care must be taken to avoid atmospheric contamination from engine exhaust. The
boat engine must be turned off or the boat maneuvered to assure the engine exhaust is
down wind of the sample.
10. Exposure of the sample to the atmosphere should be minimized. Whenever possible the
sample should be covered because contamination from the atmosphere, even without
the engines running, can be significant.
11. Samples should be placed in a cooler on ice as soon as they are collected and recorded.
12. The grab must be suspended off the deck at all times to avoid contamination.
13. If the vessel is unable to anchor, the position relative to station should be monitored
carefully during benthic collection.
6.4.2 Benthic biology
Field crews must assure that all grabs processed are acceptable according to the criteria
described above, and that no organisms are lost during any step, including transferring the
sample to the sieve, and during sieving. Also, samples must be properly identified and preserved
to assure they are received by the processing laboratory in acceptable condition.
6.4.3 GRAIN SIZE
Samples collected for grain size analysis require no special QA steps other than carefully
following the directions discussed earlier and assuring proper storage. Note that grain size
samples must NOT be frozen.
6.4.5 TOXICITY
Since sediment toxicity samples are collected from the same homogenate used for sediment
chemistry, the steps outlined above should be followed. In addition, because of the possibility of
failure of a toxicity test, it is important that a full 3 L of sediment be collected for analysis at each
station. This will provide a sufficient volume of sediment for re-testing if necessary.
6.5 Safety Considerations
All sediment grab samplers are dangerous pieces of equipment. Once the device is cocked, it
could accidentally trip at any time. The operators must be careful not to place hands or fingers in
a position where they could be damaged (or amputated) in the event that the device trips
prematurely.
The sampler is a heavy piece of equipment (especially when full). The operators must take
care when deploying or retrieving this gear under adverse weather conditions.
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SECTION 7
FISH TRAWLS
After all required sediments are collected, one or more trawls are made to collect fish for
species composition, relative abundance, chemical analysis, and pathological examination. Many
states already have their own trawling protocols. Described below are the protocols for Coastal
2000. Existing state protocols and gear may be substituted following discussions with the C2000-
NE Field Coordinator.
7.1 Gear and General Protocols
A fish trawl is a funnel-shaped net that filters fish from the near bottom waters. Fish are
herded by ground wire and doors into the mouth of the funnel where fish are captured. The basic
components of a trawl net are described briefly below. The actual specifications of the net used
by AED for EMAP are found in Appendix B.
The doors of the net provide spreading power to the net. Water pressure against the doors
force them to spread the wings of the trawl. The wings are the beginning of the webbing and form
the mouth of the funnel on two sides of the net. The wings are bordered on top and bottom by a
headrope and a footrope, respectively. For a single warp rig, each end of the headrope, or top
line, is attached directly to the upper ring on the back of the doors. Each end of the footrope, or
bottom line, is attached to the bottom ring of the doors. For strength and weight, a sweep is
attached to the footrope. At the bosom, or top of the curve of the mouth, the wings attach to the
body of the net. The top portion of the body has an overhanging panel, or square, which prevents
fish from escaping over the top panel of the trawl. Continuing back toward the terminus of the net
are the first and second bellies which are normally symmetrical top and bottom. The bellies
contribute most of the body of the net, and therefore make up most of the taper. The cod-end is
the rear portion of the trawl net which serves as a collecting bag for all that is captured by the
trawl.
Fish are collected using a high rise sampling trawl with a 13.5-meter footrope with a chain
sweep. Tow duration is 10 minutes with a towing speed of 2-3 knots against the prevailing
current. Speed over the bottom should be 1-3 knot. Fish are sorted and enumerated, examined
for evidence of gross pathological conditions, and selected specimens retained and properly
processed for tissue chemical analysis. Subsampling offish is conducted as necessary. The
outline below describes the specific protocol to be followed during trawling operations. The
procedures include: net deployment, vessel operation while under tow, net retrieval, and
processing.
Types of trawls can be defined as follows:
STANDARD TRAWL - This trawl is the "quantitative" trawl performed at all stations for
community structure and abundance determination. One standard trawl should be performed
at EVERY station. Any fish sample type can be taken from a standard trawl. Fish are
identified, measured, and examined for pathological conditions.
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NON-STANDARD TRAWL - At selected stations non-standard trawls may need to be
performed following the completion of a standard trawl only to obtain a sufficient number of
fish for tissue chemistry.
The type offish samples that will be collected are as follows:
Pathology Fish - These are fish observed by the field crew to have a gross external pathology
(lump, growth, ulcer, fin rot, gill erosion, and/or gill discoloration). ALL species are examined
for external pathology, therefore, pathology fish may be of any species collected. Pathology
fish are collected only during the standard trawl. Any fish found with one of these conditions is
preserved in Dietrich's fixative for confirmation by a specialist. These fish are Pathology fish.
Taxonomy QA fish - Fish that cannot be identified in the field are to be sent back to the
appropriate agency for identification by an expert taxonomist.
7.2 Trawl Preparation
(Portions of these instructions are specific to the 24' boats at AED. Modifications may be
necessary depending upon the vessel used for trawling)
1. Inspect the trawl net for holes, including cod-end liners, and mend/replace as necessary
prior to departure from the dock. Inspect all hardware for wear and replace as needed.
All connections should be made securely and tightened with a wrench. Do NOT rely on
hand tightening shackles, bolts, or other fasteners.
2. Lead the winch wire from the drum through the turning block on the mast assembly and
through the snatch block at the end of the boom.
3. Attach the bridle to the winch wire with a shackle. Wind both legs of the bridle onto the
main winch drum, while maintaining tension on the wire. All bridle connections should be
tightened with a wrench.
4. Arrange the net on the deck with the cod-end aft and the head rope on top. Close the
end of the cod-end by using a cod-end knot. Check to make sure there is no
escapement possibility through the cod end rings. The line should pass through the rings
at the back of the cod end and around the net just in front of these rings. Coil the float
line from the cod-end to the float, and position it on the net for easy access.
5. Attach the legs of the net to the trawl doors. The top leg of the net is the extension of the
headrope and must be secured to the top aft ring of the door. The bottom leg is the
extension of the sweep and must be secured to the bottom aft ring of the door. One
bridle wire should be attached to each door at the towing point of the chain harness.
Shackles should be used for all connections.
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7.3 Net Deployment
(Portions of these instructions are specific to the 24' boats at AED. Modifications may be
necessary depending upon the vessel used for trawling)
1. After all preparation steps have been completed, the chief scientist or captain should
check all resources available (chart, navigational aids, land marks etc.) to determine that
there are no under water hazards. Determine the direction of current flow and survey the
probable trawl track for potential hazards, such as other vessels, deployed commercial
fishing gear (nets, pots, etc.), shallow water, or unsuitable substrate. In addition, depth,
weather, and sea conditions should also be evaluated prior to each trawl. The decision
as to whether or not to collect a sample is the responsibility of the chief scientist or
captain.
2. With the starboard engine in neutral, the boom should be positioned out over the
starboard gunnel with a enough incline for the doors to clear the rail. Lead the bridles
through the snatch block on the boom, raise the doors with the winch, and bring them to
rest on the gunnel (starboard door forward, port door aft). Circle the boat slowly to
starboard. When the starboard side is down current, deploy the float and safety line
attached to the cod-end. Flake the net into the water from the cod-end to the wings.
Check to make sure that the legs of the net are not twisted before continuing deployment.
Pay out wire until the doors are well behind the engines. Swing the boom to the
centerline then lower the boom, releasing tension on the snatch block (the wire should
now be on the goalpost assembly). Head slowly into the current (e.g., 1 knot) and
continue to pay out wire until appropriate warp length is obtained (consult Table 4 for the
proper amount of wire to be released based on water depth). Great care should be taken
to prevent fouling of the propeller with the net. Care should also be taken to maintain
tension on the tow warp to avoid fouling the net on bottom. The starboard engine can be
engaged when the gear is clear of the props and the doors spread.
7.4 Trawling
1. As soon as the required warp length is reached, the winch operator should inform the
captain that the net is ready for towing. The captain then visually resurveys the trawl
track, records the time, initiates the trawl clock, records the start coordinates, and begins
the tow. An attempt should be made to trawl along a uniform depth contour.
2. Boat speed should be 2-3 knots. Speed over bottom, as measured by GPS or Loran
position, should be between 1 and 3 knots. If it becomes apparent that these conditions
will not be met, the net should be retrieved and a different trawl direction tried.
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Table 4. Amount of Winch Wire to be Used for Trawling
Water depth (ft)
Ratio of line to water depth
Line out
(including the 125' bridle)
10 (3m)
20 (6m)
30 (9m)
40 (12m)
50 (15m)
60 (18m)
70 (21 m)
80 (24m)
90 (27 m)
7:1
7:1
7:1
6:1
5.5:1
5:1
4.6:1
4.2:1
3.8:1
Bridle only (38m)
Bridle+20' (44m)
Bridle+60' (56m)
Bridle+120' (75m)
Bridle+155' (85m)
Bridle+180' (92m)
Bridle+202'(100m)
Bridle+216'(104m)
Bridle+222(106m)
During the trawl tow, the captain should monitor the depth finder for potential obstructions
or sudden changes in depth. If a hazard is identified or a hang up occurs, the net should
be retrieved and another tow attempted approximately 100 m from the initial trawl track.
If three unsuccessful attempts are made, or 1.5 hours effort is expended, trawling
operations should be aborted. If a successful 10 minute trawl cannot be accomplished,
fish can still be collected from a shorter trawl for chemistry.
The duration of all standard trawls should be 10 minutes from the time the pay-out of
warp is completed until the time hauling begins.
7.5 Net Retrieval
(Portions of these instructions are specific to the 24' boats at AED. Modifications may be
necessary depending upon the vessel used for trawling)
1. After approximately 10 minutes of trawling, record the end coordinates then haul back the
wire until approximately 10 meters of the bridle is still out.
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2. Put the starboard engine in neutral. Throttle back and raise the boom so the wire clears
the goal post assembly. Turn the boat slightly to starboard and move the boom over the
starboard side (the boom should be controlled by the vangs during this process).
3. Take in wire until the doors are at the block. Haul the cod end in by hand or use the
capstan head to assist
7.6 Safety Considerations
Operation of the trawl can be a dangerous operation. In addition to the dangers of using the
winch and capstan, improper towing procedures could capsize the boat. The net should always
be towed off the stern, with the winch cable passing through the towing bracket. Towing off the
side of the boat can capsize it. Care must also be taken when pulling the net in over the side. If
the net is full, the total weight may be too great to use the mast and boom.
When deploying the net, the crew must be careful not to entangle themselves or other gear in
the net, bridle, or winch cable. This could result in serious personal injury or damage to
equipment.
All trawling operations must be conducted in a manner consistent with maintaining the safety
of the crew. The captain will determine when weather or sea conditions are unsafe for trawling.
In the event of net hang-ups on bottom obstructions, the captain must consider the safety of
the crew before attempting to free the gear. A means to sever the tow line should be immediately
available to the crew during all trawl operations. SEVERING THE LINE SHOULD ONLY BE
PERFORMED AS A LAST RESORT AND WHEN THE LINE IS SLACK!!! SEVERING IT WHILE
UNDER TENSION COULD RESULT IN WHIPLASH OF THE LINE AND SEVERE PERSONAL
INJURY.
Before deploying the trawl, the captain should ensure that other vessels do not present a
safety hazard during the tow. Whenever possible, the captain shall contact nearby vessels by
marine radio to make them aware of the trawling operation. In addition, the marine radio should
be monitored by the crew prior to and during trawl operations. Appropriate day shapes must be
flown.
7.7 Criteria for Voiding Tows
A standard tow will be considered void if one or more of the following conditions occur:
1. A tow cannot be completed because of hang down, boat malfunction, vessel traffic, or
major disruption of gear.
2. Boat speed or speed over bottom is outside the prescribed, acceptable range.
3. The cod-end is not tied shut.
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4. If the tow continues for more than two minutes beyond the ten-minute tow duration, or is
discontinued less than eight minutes following the start.
5. The net is filled with mud or debris.
6. A portion of the catch is lost prior to processing.
7. The tow wire, bridle, headrope, footrope, or up and down lines parted.
8. The net is torn (>30 bars in the tapered portion, >20 bars in the extension or cod end, or
multiple tears that, in the opinion of the chief scientist, may have significantly altered the
efficiency of the net).
7.8 Endangered Species
All species considered to be rare, threatened, or endangered should be processed
immediately and released alive. At the discretion of the chief scientist, photographs may be taken
to document the catch.
7.9 Sample Processing
Once a catch is brought on deck, fish are identified to species, measured, counted, examined
for external pathology, and processed for chemical analysis.
7.9.1 General Processing
1. After all fish have been sorted, process fish for pathological examination as described
below. Sampling for pathology and Chemistry are performed concurrently with the
collection of composition and abundance data. Only fish, lobster, and blue crab are
recorded. Other invertebrates and trash are noted in the datasheet then discarded.
2. Measure, with a measuring board, the fork length to the nearest millimeter, of individuals
of each species. If there are fewer than 30 individuals of a species, all individuals should
be measured. If it is estimated that more than 30 individuals of a species were caught, a
subsampling procedure should be used to measure between 30-50 individuals.
Subsampling will be accomplished by randomly selecting fish from the buckets. All data
are entered onto data sheets and later into the computer.
NOTE-
Dog fish - stretched total length
Skates - total length
Rays - wing tip to wing tip, and total length
Unforked - total length without extraneous filaments
Blue crab - carapace width
Lobster - Carapace length
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3. Enter data on the fish data sheets. Common names are preferred.
4. All fish not measured for length (i.e., those subsampled) are counted, either by direct
count or weight-counts. When extremely large catches of schooling fish such as bay
anchovy or other clupeids are made, abundance may be estimated by weight-counts. At
least 100 individuals should be weighed in a batch, and 2 batches should be weighed to
determine mean weight per individual. All remaining fish should be weighed, and the
total number of fish estimated and recorded on the data sheet. If two or more obvious
size classes are present in a sample (e.g., young-of-year and adults), the size classes
should be treated as separate species for the purpose of counting.
5. After all processing has been completed, the chief scientist should review the trawl data
sheet for discrepancies and inaccuracies. When any questions have been resolved,
he/she signs the data sheets as being reviewed and the remaining portion of the catch
can be returned to the water. When significant mortality occurs and the trawl site is in a
highly visible area, the captain may elect to retain the catch until more discrete disposal
can be accomplished. Under no circumstances should the crew give fish away to the
general public.
7.9.2 Processing of Fish for Gross External Pathological Analysis
I. Gross examination of fishes:
All individuals collected from a standard trawl will be identified and counted, and the first 30
individuals of each species will be measured. All individuals measured (i.e. the first 30) that
exceed 75 mm in length will be examined for evidence of gross external pathology (lumps,
growths, ulcers, fin rot, gill erosion, and gill discoloration). The examination is intended to be a
rapid scan of the surface of individuals to be completed while other fish measures are being
completed (i.e., identifying, enumerating, measuring). This scan should take no longer than 10-15
seconds per fish. Fish determined to show evidence of a pathology are assigned a sample
number and processed appropriately (see below). The type of pathology will be noted on the data
sheet. These are PATHOLOGY FISH. Only fish collected in "standard" trawls are saved for
pathology.
II. Selection, killing and fixation for transfer:
Proper fixation of specimens is critical to the ultimate quality of the data obtained. Fish should
be examined and fixed while still alive or shortly after death (within one hour of collection).
Specimens should not be frozen or kept on ice at any time.
A. All specimens with gross lesions or other suspect conditions, as identified in Section I
above, will be processed and coded individually. All these fish will be transferred as
indicated below (Section III) to EPA's Gulf Ecology Division (GED) for subsequent
examination.
1. Carefully cut the entire length of the abdominal cavity open using scissors or a sharp
knife. Gently insert the instrument into the abdomen near the anus and make an
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incision to the operculum. Cut with a lifting motion so that the incision is made from
the inside outward, taking care not to injure the visceral organs. Remove the lateral
musculature from one side of the animal's visceral cavity to facilitate the fixation of the
internal organs. Remove the opercula, and immerse in fixative (see step 4).
2. If the total length of the fish exceeds 15 cm, only a portion of the fish will be saved for
laboratory analysis. Carefully cut, through the entire thickness of the fish, from the top
of the operculum back along the spine, until a position behind the visceral cavity is
reached, and then a 90° change in direction towards the anus. The head and viscera
are then saved. Remove both opercula, and musculature covering the visceral cavity
on one side. The head and thorax can be separated at the esophagus if needed.
Any abnormalities found on the remaining portion of the fish (which is to be discarded)
are excised along with the surrounding tissue, and saved with the head and visceral
cavity. For fishes smaller than 15 cm, the entire fish is saved. (See Figure 4).
3. If an external growth is present, slice through the lesion with one clean cut using a
sharp razor blade.
4. Place the sample (whole fish or head, visceral cavity and abnormalities excised) in an
"onion bag" or a plastic zip lock bag with multiple perforations. Assign an appropriate
sample number to each fish, affix the bar code to a fish tag, and attach the tag to the
fish. Record this number on the data sheet, along with all other pertinent information
on that fish. Place the bag in a tight sealing plastic container with sufficient fixative to
completely cover the specimen. Specimens should be fixed in Dietrich's fixative for
one or two days.
Dietrich's Fixative (to make ~5 gals.)
37-40% Formaldehyde
or 100% formalin 1500 ml
Glacial Acetic Acid 300 ml
95% Ethanol 4500 ml
Distilled water 9000 ml
5. Carefully record pertinent information relating to each individual sample on the data
sheet.
III. Shipping of preserved specimens:
Fish should soak in Dietrichs Fixative for at least two days prior to shipment. To ship, wrap the
fish in cheesecloth dampened with Dietrichs. Place the wrapped in fish in several layers of
airtight plastic bags and pack in cardboard boxes or coolers. No specific temperature criteria
apply.
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Fish less than 15 cm in length
Cut end of operculum
to expose gills
Remove abdominal
covering on one side
Fish greater than 15 cm in length
Excess to be discarded
unless a lesion is present
Figure 4. Description of how to expose interior organs for proper preservation of
Pathology Fish.
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7.9.3 Tissue Chemistry
1. For the two most abundant taxa designated as target species (Table 5), measure and
retain nine individuals within the desired size range for chemical analysis. Individuals are
randomly selected from all those collected until nine of the appropriate size have been
selected. If no individuals in the primary size range were collected, those that are closest
to the preferred size range are selected.
NOTE: Even if a tow is voided for species composition and abundance, fish collected
can still be processed for chemistry.
2. Record on the datasheet the size, species, sample number (see Step 3), and any other
appropriate notes.
3. Place one bar code on the data sheet. Place the twin bar code on a plastic tag and affix
to the fish by placing the twist-tie through the mouth and out the operculum.
4. Wrap individual fish in aluminum foil (with the tag exposed), place all fish of that species
in a single zip-lock bag, affix the "composite" bar code, and place it in a cooler on DRY
ICE.
5. All samples should be placed immediately on DRY ICE for freezing. When adding new
samples to the cooler containing the dry ice, samples should be rearranged to assure
that these samples are in contact with the dry ice so they will freeze rapidly. One option
would be to use one cooler for freezing fish, and a second for storing them. This is
dependent on the equipment carried on the boat, and therefore, the amount of space
available. If freezing on-board is not practical, fish must be stored on ice until the crew
reaches the dock. The time before freezing should be minimized.
6. Repeat trawling (standardized methods not required) for up to 1% hours if needed to
obtain at least five individuals of at least one target species. Fish collected in these
trawls are processed for chemistry only.
7.10 Quality Assurance
In order for the net to "fish" properly, the proper amount of winch cable must be let out.
Consult Table 4 for the proper scope. Care must also be taken to assure that fish are not lost
from the net during retrieval.
It is important that the tow time and speed be as close to the desired values as possible. Any
deviations should be noted on the data sheet.
It is important not to contaminate fish which are saved for chemical analysis. Every effort
should be made to keep them from coming in contact with very dirty surfaces. It is especially
important to ensure that no cuts are made into the flesh.
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Table 5. Listing of Target Species for Chemical Analysis (sizes are the target sizes for fish saved for chemical
analyses).
SPECIES SIZE RANGE (mm)
Catfish Species
Channel Catfish 200 - 300
White Catfish 200 - 300
Scup 70-115
Summer Flounder 350-450
Weakfish 300 - 400
White Perch 150-250
Winter Flounder 100 - 200
Blue Crab 120-170
Lobster
7.11 Contingency Plans
Considering the wide variety of environments to be sampled by C2000, it is likely that towing a
net will be impossible at some stations. If, due to repeated snags, a successful trawl cannot be
performed within 2 hours of starting, no further attempts should be made. This is noted on the
data sheet.
In the event that a "standard" trawl cannot be obtained because of space limitations, the crew
can still use either alternative gear to collect fish and shellfish for chemistry. This may include
purchasing lobster or crab from local fishermen. The preferred method would be to accompany
the fishermen during the collection to ensure the crabs or lobster are collected in the proximity of
the station. It is important that the crew is sure the lobsters or crabs were collected in the
vicinity of the station.
7.12 Collection Permits
Many states require scientific collection permits for the collection of fish using trawls. Permits
issued for C2000 activities must be carried on each boat. A permit must be presented to any
appropriate state official that requests to see it.
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SECTION 8
PACKAGING AND SHIPPING SAMPLES
After samples are collected, following proper packaging and shipping procedures are critical
steps in assuring the integrity of the samples. Failure to follow these procedures could result in
the loss of valuable data. Each sample type requires different handling as described below.
Packaging and shipping are to be performed within several days of sample collection.
Samples may be sent either to an approved state lab or one of the Coastal 2000 "national
labs." This determination is made well before the start of the sampling season. The protocols
described below are specific to samples being sent to the national labs; however, it is
recommended that samples being sent to local labs be processed similarly.
As samples are packaged for final shipment, the sample number of each sample must be
recorded. This can be done on a hard-copy shipment form, or electronically entered into a
computer. Upon completion of packaging, a unique tracking number (bar code label) is affixed to
the SIDE of the cooler, and this number is also recorded on the shipment form. The number must
be placed on the side, not top, so as not to interfere with the carrier's tracking system (which also
uses bar codes). In addition to the carrier's airbill, a mailing label should also be affixed to the
cooler as an additional precaution against loss. A packing list must accompany the shipment.
This can be a photocopy of the completed shipment form, or a printout from the computer.
Samples that are "hand-carried" require the same paperwork (less the airbill) and tracking as
those shipped by commercial carrier. Since coolers need to be shipped back to the crew, a return
airbill should also be included in the cooler.
All samples, except those preserved in formalin or Dietrichs, are shipped overnight. Shipping
should only take place on Mondays through Wednesdays, otherwise samples will arrive at
the analytical laboratory on the weekend when there may be no one available to accept
them.
The C2000-NE Field Coordinator must be informed each time a shipment is sent out to one of
the national laboratories. The information needed includes the name of the analytical laboratory,
the shipment ID number, the carrier's airbill number (this is especially important), and a list of the
samples included in the shipment.
8.1 Proper Packaging Methods
Proper packaging of samples is critical in assuring they arrive at the receiving laboratory in
good condition. Improper packaging can result in damaged or lost samples. This is costly in
terms of time and money. There are several important aspects of proper packaging: assembly of
the shipping box (if required), the amount of blue or dry ice needed, and proper packaging of the
contents.
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Each team should be supplied with several sizes of coolers. The appropriate size should be
selected to minimize "dead" space.
Each team carries coolers with dry ice and blue ice to keep samples frozen or cool prior to
shipment. Blue ice blocks can be frozen by placing them under the dry ice, or in a freezer for
crews operating out of a home base. For dry ice, a general rule of thumb is at least 5-10 pounds,
with another pound for every pound of sample (ASSUMING THE SAMPLES ARE ALREADY
FROZEN). The amount of blue ice needed to keep samples cool is approximately one pound per
pound of sample. This should guarantee samples arrive frozen or cool (depending on the ice
type) even if the shipment is delayed a day. Frozen samples must always be shipped on dry ice,
and refrigerated samples must always be shipped on blue ice packs.
Because of the need to ship fish and crabs frozen, relatively large amounts of dry ice will be
needed.
In addition, it is recommended that the sample be sandwiched between refrigerant, i.e. dry ice
should be packed both above and below the sample. It is also important that the box contain
a minimum of air space. Therefore, packing material should be inserted above the top ice layer
to fill the box.
A third consideration for all sample types (not just cooled or frozen samples) is proper
packaging within the shipping box. While packing a shipment box, one should assume that the
box will be improperly handled. All samples should be protected and sufficient packing material
included to eliminate any possible movement of the samples within the box. All material that
could possibly leak, such as water or sediment samples, should be sealed with sealing tape and
packaged in zip lock bags. All glass sample bottles should be bubble wrapped and sealed in a zip
lock bag. Any whirl paks should also be taped to ensure the metal tabs do not puncture adjacent
bags, and placed in a zip lock bag.
Proper storage and shipment conditions are summarized in Table 6. Federal Express no
longer requires a Dangerous Materials waybill for all shipments of formalin in concentrations of
10% or less. Federal Express does, however, require a class 9 placard, UN number, packing
description and a emergency phone number for all shipments of dry ice.
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Page 42 of 68
Table 6. Sample holding and shipping conditions
SAMPLE TYPE HOLDING CONDITIONS SHIPPING CONDITIONS
Sediment Biota Preserved in Formalin Once per Week
Sediment Grain Size Refrigerated * Ship Weekly
Sediment Organics Refrigerated * Ship Weekly
Sediment Metals Refrigerated * Ship Weekly
Sediment TOC Refrigerated * Ship Weekly
Sediment Toxicity Refrigerated * Ship Weekly
Chlorophyll Filter Frozen on Dry Ice * Ship Weekly
Total Suspended Solids Refrigerated * Ship Weekly
Dissolved Nutrients Frozen on Dry Ice * Ship Weekly
Fish Chemistry Frozen on Dry Ice * Ship Weekly
Pathology QA Wrapped in Cheesecloth Once per Week
* Crews should attempt to ship as frequently as logistically possible. Samples must be shipped at least once per
week.
8.2 Benthic Biology Samples
Samples for benthic community analyses are preserved in formalin in the field. These
samples are in plastic containers with tight fitting screw-top lids. As these samples are preserved,
there is no need to keep them cool. Shipment boxes should not weigh more than 50 pounds.
The lid of each jar should be checked to assure that it is tight, and the lid taped with sealing tape.
The bar code label of each container is then read and the samples placed in an insulated
shipping box. The insulation is for protection rather than thermal regulation. As described above,
a computer printout of the sample numbers included in this shipment is enclosed in the box.
The box is then sealed and an appropriate shipping label affixed. Be sure to pack all bottles
upright, and to fill gaps with packing material. Overnight delivery is not required.
This shipment contains formalin; however, since the final concentration is 10% or less, Federal
Express no longer requires a Dangerous Goods Airbill and Shipper Certification form.
8.3 Sediment Chemistry Samples
Following collection, sediment samples for TOC, organics, and metals chemical
characterization should be refrigerated rather than frozen because freezing greatly increases the
likelihood of breakage of the glass container. It is also recommended that samples be shipped
cool, but not frozen, for the same reason.
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Coastal 2000 Field Operations Manual Date: 4/26/00
Page 43 of 68
Sediment chemistry samples should be shipped at least weekly, preferably early in the week.
Sample bottles should be wrapped in bubble wrap to protect them from breakage, and sealed in a
plastic zip lock bag. They should then be placed in an insulated box with an appropriate amount
of blue ice.
Sediment chemistry samples must be shipped Next Day Service to the appropriate lab.
8.4 Sediment Toxicity Samples
Sediment samples collected for sediment toxicity testing must be kept refrigerated (4°C), NOT
FROZEN. Sample must be shipped at least weekly. Of all the samples to be analyzed, the
sediment toxicity samples are the most "time-critical" due to the nature of the testing and the
relatively short permitted holding time (<28 days). Containers are then placed upright, along with
an appropriate amount of blue ice, in an insulated box. Sediment toxicity samples are shipped
Next Day Service to the appropriate lab.
8.5 Grain Size Samples
Samples for grain size analysis are collected along with each sample collected for benthic
biology and sediment chemistry/toxicity analyses. Samples for grain size analysis should be kept
cool (4°C), but not frozen. If these samples are contained in Whirl Packs sealed with metal
wraps, tape should be placed around the ends of these wraps at the time of collection to prevent
the metal tips from piercing one of the other bags. Samples should be shipped weekly. Whirl
Packs should be placed in a ziplock bag and packed into an insulated box or cooler with an
appropriate amount of frozen blue ice to keep the samples cool. Place a thin layer of paper
between the blue ice and the Whirl Paks to keep them from freezing.
Samples should be shipped Next Day Service to the appropriate lab.
8.6 Chlorophyll, Nutrient, and Total Suspended Solids Samples
Samples should be shipped at least weekly. Chlorophyll and nutrient samples should be
frozen and shipped on dry ice. TSS samples are shipped on blue ice.
Samples should be shipped Next Day Service to the appropriate lab.
8.7 Fish Chemistry
Samples should be shipped at least weekly. Samples must be frozen and shipped on dry ice.
Samples should be shipped Next Day Service to the appropriate lab.
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Coastal 2000 Field Operations Manual Date: 4/26/00
Page 44 of 68
8.8 Pathology QA Samples
These samples are preserved in Dietrich's fixative. Fish must be well preserved in Dietrichs
Fixative prior to shipment. The fish should be removed from the bucket of fixative, wrapped in
multiple layers of Dietrichs-soaked cheesecloth, then placed in multiple layers of airtight plastic
bags. Samples then should be packaged into cardboard boxes or coolers and shipped to the
appropriate lab. Overnight service is not required.
8.9 Instructions for FEDEX Shipping with Dry Ice
A. Use Regular Airbill
1. Sender's Section: Fill in the Date and Your Name.
2. Confirm the recipient's name, shipping address and phone number
3. Payment Section: Confirm that Bill Sender Box (#1) is checked
4. Services Section: Check Priority Overnight Box /your packaging, leave
Freight Service and Instructions sections blank
Delivery and Special Handling Section: Check Dry Ice Box and Fill in the
total weight of dry ice for the shipment.
5. Complete section 6 of the Airbill.
Note: print the weight of the dry ice in Kg, not the total box weight!
B. Proper Labeling of Shipping Boxes containing Dry Ice
1. Stick Number 9 placard label (available from FEDEX) so that clearly visible
on side of box
2. On the same side of the box the following information must be printed:
Dry ice, 9, UN 1845, box X Kg , 904 III
Dangerous goods - Shipper's declaration not required
Note: print the weight of the dry ice in Kg, not the box!
3. Be sure that each box has an Address Label with the correct address of the
receiving facility.
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Coastal 2000 Field Operations Manual Date: 4/26/00
Page 45 of 68
Appendix A
List of Suggested
Supplies and Equipment
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Coastal 2000 Field Operations Manual Date: 4/26/00
Page 46 of 68
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Coastal 2000 Field Operations Manual Date: 4/26/00
Page 47 of 68
This list provides a complete (more or less) listing of recommended supplies and equipment for Coastal
2000 sampling in the northeast states. It is intended as an aid in planning efforts.
General
Boat set up appropriately for sampling
Appropriate safety gear
Navigation equipment - GPS or Differential GPS (preferred), depth finder
Vehicle to move people around as needed
Vehicle to store gear in, including shipping coolers (only needed for crews traveling away from a base
location)
Communications equipment between shore and boat (e.g., cellular telephones, VHP...)
Computer for data entry (laboratory or portable)
Bar code reader (recommended)
Bar codes for all samples - EPA can coordinate
Datasheets - EPA can provide templates
Pre-labeled station datasheet packages
Data entry software (e.g., JetForm's Formflow Filler for EPA datasheets)
Shipping containers (e.g., coolers)
Shipping labels
FEDEX (or other carrier) airbills
Shipping Bar codes
"Blue ice"
Coolers for storing samples (both frozen and chilled)
Field notebooks
Water-resistant paper for datasheets (e.g., Rite-in-the-rain)
Waterproof pens for writing on datasheets
Clipboards
Insulated gloves for handling dry ice
Bubble wrap for shipping
Shipping scale for weighing packages
"Packing list enclosed" envelopes
"This side up" labels
Class 9 placards for dry ice shipments
Strapping tape for shipping
Duct tape for everything else
Buckets and/or hose and washdown pump
Meter stick
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Coastal 2000 Field Operations Manual Date: 4/26/00
Page 48 of 68
Waterproof markers
Paper towels
Kimwipes
Latex or other gloves for handling contaminated sediments or formalin
Scissors
Suggest pingers for overboard gear in case it is lost
Water Quality Monitoring
Profiling instrument to measure depth, temperature, salinity, pH, and DO (e.g., Hydrolab DataSonde4, YSI
6000, etc., with appropriate deck unit and cabling as needed)
Back-up/QA instrumentation:
Additional DO meter (unless doing Winklers)
Thermometer
Refractometer
pH standards
Salinity standards
Spare DO membranes & electrolyte
Spare parts for profiler
Batteries
Light (PAR) or transmissometer with appropriate deck unit or datasheets and cables
Secchi disk with marked line
Water sampling bottle for nutrients
Filtration apparatus for Chlorophyll
a) 2- 47mm filter holders
vacuum manifold
4 liter overflow bottle
12vdc vacuum pump or hand pump
or b) stainless steel, 25 mm filter holder
standard luerlock syringe
47 or 25 mm GF/F filter pads (2 per sample, up to 6 per station)
Clean 60cc nalgene bottle for nutrients (3 per station)
1-L Nalgene for TSS samples (3 per station)
Storage containers for filters and other supplies
MgCO3
Filter forceps
Graduated cylinders, 250, 100, 50, 10 ml
Dl water for rinsing
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Coastal 2000 Field Operations Manual Date: 4/26/00
Page 49 of 68
Squirt bottles
Aluminum foil for wrapping samples (suggest pre-cut squares from Thomas Scientific)
Whirlpaks or ziplock bags for foil-wrapped filter pads
Dry ice for freezing samples
Sediment sampling
0.04m2 Young-modified Van Veen grab sampler (or other)
Grab stand
Weights for grab (several)
Pads for grab (several)
0.5 mm stainless steel sieve
Sieve box
"Tub" or bucket for dumping sediment into
High-quality stainless mixing pot, with lid, for sediments (2)
Stainless spoons (several)
500 cc glass jars for organics (Ichem pre-cleaned)
250 cc HOPE jar for metals (Ichem pre-cleaned)
125 cc glass jar for TOC (Ichem pre-cleaned)
125 cc HOPE jar for grain size
4-L HOPE jar for toxicity (pre-cleaned)
1-L Nalgene for benthic infauna (3 per station plus spares)
Electrical tape for sealing lids of benthic containers
Formaldehyde (formalin)
Rose Bengal stain
Borax (can get at supermarket)
Centimeter ruler
Wide mouth funnel
Squirt bottle
Alconox
Scrubbing brushes
Fine forceps for picking worms from screen
Fish Sampling
13.5 m otter trawl (several)
Doors for otter trawl
Bridles
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Coastal 2000 Field Operations Manual Date: 4/26/00
Page 50 of 68
Timer
Fish measuring board
Heavy duty aluminum foil
Waterproof tags with tie strings
Taxonomy keys
Heavy duty dissecting scissors
Scalpel or sharp razor blade
Cheesecloth
5-gallon bucket for Dietrich's fixative
LARGE ziplock bags for fish composites
Onion bags
Dietrich's fixative
Formalin
Glacial Acetic acid
95% ethanol
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Coastal 2000 Field Operations Manual Date: 4/26/00
Page 51 of 68
Appendix B
Trawl Net
Specifications
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Page 52 of 68
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Coastal 2000 Field Operations Manual Date: 4/26/00
Page 53 of 68
C2000-NE (EMAP) Trawl Net Specifications
3:1 trawl net of 3" webbing
Headrope length = 13.5 meters
Sweep = 16.5 meters
Hanging line and headrope of %" poly dacron with thimbles spliced into ends
Up and down lines of %" poly dacron spliced into the headrope and hanging line
Webbing of 3" #21 twisted polyethylene (= European #312 twisted stranded) reinforced
along the mouth frame with gussets
Headrope flotation of 4 small (5", 760 grams buoyancy) plastic floats
Codend of 1%" #24 nylon, 64 wide by 65 deep
Sweep of 3/16" chain with 12 feet of %" chain along the mouth
Bridle is 125', %" stainless steel wire
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Coastal 2000 Field Operations Manual
Date: 4/26/00
Page 54 of 68
44
25
70
65
3:1
AP
AP
22
25
70
65
Figure B1. Diagram of EMAP trawl net. Headrope is 13.5 meters, sweep is 16.5 meters.
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Coastal 2000 Field Operations Manual Date: 4/26/00
Page 55 of 68
Appendix C
Coastal 2000
Northeast Component
Data Sheets
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Page 56 of 68
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Coastal 2000 Field Operations Manual Date: 4/26/00
Page 57 of 68
The data sheets in this appendix have been designed by AED for the Northeast Coastal 2000
effort. Their use is recommended but not required. AED can provide electronic templates for
these forms. Included are the following datasheets:
Station Information Data Sheet
CTD Cast Data Sheet
Nutrient Data Sheet
Nutrient QA Data Sheet
Benthic Data Sheet
Sediment Chemistry Data Sheet
Standard Fish Trawl Data Sheet
Fish Length Data Sheet (double sided)
Sample Shipment Form
Hydrolab Calibration Lab Data Sheet
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Page 58 of 68
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Coastal 2000 Field Operations Manual Date: 4/26/00
Page 59 of 68
STATION INFORMATION DATA SHEET - C2000 NORTHEAST
LOCATION Af""| 8 HI Cf 1
STATION |
NUMBER T
DATE VISIT
MMOOYY NUMBER
BOAT
NAME
CREW
CHIEF
CREW
MEMBER 2
VISITOR
WEATHER CONDITIONS Q,JNNY PARTLY
iCHiCK ONE OH MORE) SUNNY
CREW
CHEW
MEMBERS LAND
PURPOSE
OF VJSIT
CAST ! RAINV WINDY FOGGY
SEA CONDITIONS p CHQpp¥
fPHFf^K f}ME1 *
ROUGH
TIME ON STATION (24 HR) "m
TIME OF HIGH TIDE (24HR) -
DEPTH (M>
WAS STATION MOVED [ Yes/lxptam
* NQ
COORDINATES FROM; DGPS GPS LORAN RECKONING
LATITUDE - DEG MIN
LONGITUDE - DEG MIN
RANGE En Use COMMENTS
BEARINGS - Fiild
TRASH PRESENT ? Y / Nd IF "Y", PLACE A CHECK BESIDE EACH KIND
PLASTIC MEDICAL WASTE WOOD j TWES! CANS PAPER 1 [ OIL SUCK ]
OTHER; . ' ...... . .
SAV Y / N MACROALGAE Y / 1
M INTERTIDAL Y / N
COMMENTS;
'•-....
TIME OFF STATION {24 hr} •
COMPLETED BY:
tJflftTMEAST STATOOHC.FRP 4/25/flQ STA
-------
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Coastal 2000 Field Operations Manual
Date: 4/26/00
Page 60 of 68
CTD CAST DATA SHEET - C2000 NOfiTHEAST
STATION
NUMBER
1
i
SECCHI
DEPTH (W
^1
i
i
DATE
(MMDDYY)
CAST TIME
(24 HOUR!
m
*
SECCHI
DISK
AT
BOTTOM
Y,
'N
CTD CAST
SAMPLE \D
m
i
i
M
CTD ID
CTD CAST'
FILE NAME:
•
CTD
DEPTH (Ml
•
PAR PROFILE
FILE NAME:
i
i
j
•
SURFACE MEASUREMENTS
CTO T£MP.
[0,1 DEC. C(
AMBIENT TEMP.
[0.1 DEC. a
• •
CTD SALINITY
(Q.1 PPT) •
R1FHACT- SAL.
(1 P-PTt
•
•
CTO DISS. OX,
(0.1 MG/L
YSJ DtSS, OX.
0,1 MG/L)
CTD VS, YSI D1SS. OX.
(DIFFERENCE. MG/L)
•
•
MAXIMUM ALLOWABLE DIFFERENCE FOR DO QC CHECK; Q.i MG/L OXYGEN.
COMMENTS:
COMPLETED BY:
C2CKKJ NORTH!AST CTDGS1 HC.FRP 4S5/OQ pact
CTD
-------
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Coastal 2000 Field Operations Manual
Date: 4/26/00
Page 61 of 68
NUTRIENT DATA SHEET- C200Q NORTHEAST
STATION
SUF
FIltR
Pres
Vac<
$t
S
Ml£
Filtr
Pre:
Vac
m
Si
BO1
Filtr
Pre;
Vac
Si
Si
(FACE
ifion Metho
syren
uum Q]
WIPNUM
ALINITY;
)
ation Meth<
EJJ (JJ|"g I 4
uum| )
\MPNUM
!^LI«JTY:
ITOM
ation Meth<
ssureO
yumQ
S.MPNUM
MIMfTY:
DATE (MMDDYY)
i
d CHLa NUTRIENTS | TSS
VOLUME FiLTEREDdnls)
"X -I • ••
BARCODE LABEL
SCL
i
'
BARCODE LABEL
SN
'
"
BARCODE LABEL
SSS
CHLa NUTRIENTS TSS
'"VOLUME FILTEREDtmlfiJ
..
BARCODE LABEL
MCL
i
. ,
BARCODE LABEL
MN
l
"
BARCODE LABEL
MSS
CHLe NUTRtEMTS TSS
VOLUME FILTER ED (mJsl
1 1
.,
BARCODE LABEL
8CL
! i
RARCQOi LABEL
BN
••
"
BARCODE LABEL
BSS
COMMENTS: ....
NUTRCWHC.FRP
pad
-------
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Coastal 2000 Field Operations Manual
Date: 4/26/00
Page 62 of 68
NUTRIENT QA DATA SHEET- C2000 NORTHEAST
STATION
DATE {MMDDYYJ
SURFACE
Filtration Method
PresiyreQ
Vacuum [[]
SAMPNUM
CHL i
NUTRIENTS
VOLUME FILTERED(m!s)
SALINITY;
j_
BARCODE LABEL
CL
BARCODE LABEL
N
TSS
BARCODE LABEL
SS
CHL a
MID
Firtratfon Method
PressureQ VOLUME FILTEREDimlsl
Vacuuin]~~[
SAMPNUM
NUTRIENTS
SALINITY:
BARCODE LABEL
CL
BARCODE LABEL
N
TSS
BARCODE LABEL
SS
CHL a
BOTTOM
FJhration Method
Pr«SEur«n VOLUME FILTERSDtml«}
Vacuum [^]
SAMPNUM
NUTRIENTS
SALINITY:
BARCODE LABEL
CL
BARCODE LABEL
TSS
BARCODE LABEL
SS
COMMENTS:
COMPLETED BV-
NUUAOQHC.FftP 4/25JOO pad
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Coastal 2000 Field Operations Manual
Date: 4/26/00
Page 63 of 68
BENTHIC DATA SHEET- C2QQO NORTHEAST
STATION
1
DATE
(MMDDYY)
i
PLACE A CHECK m EACH BOX WHICH DESCR11ES THE BENTHIC INFAUNA SAMPLES. DESCRIBE THE TWEE
SAMPLES SEPARATELY BY PLACING A CHECK IN EACH COLUMN OF BQXE5 FOR EACH CATEGORY.
IF 'OTHER' IS CHECKED, DESCRIBE IN COMMENTS,
NOTE: MULTIPLE CHOICES MAY ONLY 8E SELECTED FOR NQTIS AND SURFACE BIOLOGY.
DQM1N. COLOR
SMF1 1 2 3
BLACK nnn
BRowcnn
GRAY [~]| |[ |
GREENDDD
RUSTY | || ||~1
OTHER nnn
GRAB SIZE 0.1
DOMINANT TYPE
SMPL 1 2 3
CLAY nnn
^ nnn
SAW nDn
SSTnnn
™ESnnn
°™ERnnn
NOTES
SMPt 1 2 3
OOZY ni If |
H*RD nnn
SOFT [~~|| || |
sH€LLsnnn
ROCKS nnn
OTHER nnn
SMELL
SMPL 123
SULFUR HOD
OILY nnn
eci«j AftcT I [ " i r 1
SEWAGE) |[ j||
N0 rinn
SMELL UJ k — II — 1
OTHER nnn
SURFACE BFOLOGY
SMPt 1 2 3
WORMS nnn
WORM TUBESnni I
CRUSTACEAN nPlt, 1
ECHINODERM | |j~^| |
VEQiTATION | || |[ |
MOLLUS CS n | || [
AMPELISCA r~ir~in
TUBES LJLJLJ
OTHER nnn
m2 0.04m2 OTHEH
SAMPLE 1
SAMPLE 2
SAMPLE 3
GRAB NUMBER
GRAB PENET,
DEPTH (mm)
BENTHIC
INFAUNA
SAMPLE ID
SAV
MACHOALQAE
NUMBER OF
JARS USED
BARCODE
BI1
Y/N D
Y/ND
ALL SAMPLES TAKEN? Y / N
HQCK5J f
SHELLS
L HARD
SAND
BARCODE
BI2
Y/N [_J
Y/N CH
BARCODE
BB
Y/NQ
Y/N n
IF YOU ANSWERED 'N", PLACE A CHECK IN THE
MENU BELOW TO EXPLAIN WHY NOT.
ucrcTATi/™ OTHER-EXPLAIN J
VEGETATION ^ COw)MENTS ]_
COMMENTS:
COMPLETED BY:
nciun/"a_ii" EQEI js r^Kjrsn #4 QlEKl
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Coastal 2000 Field Operations Manual
Date: 4/26/00
Page 64 of 68
SEDIMENT CHEMISTRY DATA SHEET -G2QOQ NORTHEAST
STATION
NUMBER
DATE
fMMDDYY)
NUMBER OF GRABS
COLLECTED/HOMOGENIZED
NUMBER OF
UNSUCCESSFUL GRABS
SEDIMENT SAMPLES - TAKEN AT ALL STATIONS
IF LESS THAN THE REQUIRED VOLUMES ARE COLLECTED, EXPLAIN WHY IN THE COMMENTS SECTION
SEDIMENT TOXICITY
(3000 CC REQUIRED,
USE LARGE PLASTIC JAR)
SEDIMENT GRAIN SIZE
(1QQCG REQUIRED,
USE SMALL BOTTLE)
SEDIMENT QRGANICS
1250 CC REQUIRED,
USE GLASS JAR)
SEDIMENT TOC
(125 CCREQUfRE
USE SMALL GLA
:D,
SS JAR)
SEDIMENT METALS
0 25 CC REQUIRED,
USE PLASTIC JAR)
WERE ALL SAMPLES TAKEN? Y / N
SHELLS
HAflD SANO'
T
BARCODE
ST
1C- IG-
BARCODE
SG
| -•
BARCODE
so
..
BARCODE
QC
JL -J_
BARCODE
SM
IF YOU ANSWERED "N", PLACE A CHECK
IN THE MENU BELOW TO EXPLAIN WHY NOT,
OTHER
i
COMMENTS:
COMPLETED BY;
™'"d SED
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Coastal 2000 Field Operations Manual
Date: 4/26/00
Page 65 of 68
STANDARD FISH TRAWL DATA
C2000 NORTHEAST
DO NOT ENTER DATA FOR NON-STANDARD TRAWLS.
STATION
m
TRAWL
SAMPLE ID ;
SHEET
DATE
MMODYY
j
i
•
\
L
1
i
TIME STARTED
(24 HOUR)
•
*
DURATION
(mm:ss)
*
*
MINIMUM DEPTH {m}
LINE OUT (m) W/O BRIDLE
SPEED THROUGH WATER
•
•
MAXfMUM DEPTH (m)
"" !
]
1
TOTAL NUMBER OF FISH
SPECIES CAUGHT IN TRAWL
SPEED OVER BOTTOM
•
Gear Code:
START
END
LATITUDE - DEG
LONGITUDE - DEG
LATITUDE - DEG '
LONGITUDE - DEG
MIN
MIN
M
N
MIN,
, _§
•
•
RANGE &
BEARINGS -
1 IffL
Use
COMMENTS
Field
TRAWL SUCCESSFUL? (1=YES, SWMO, 3-NOTATTEMPTED>
IF 2 OR 3, PLACE A CHECK UNDER
ONE OF THE REASONS BELOW.
TOO
DEEP
TOO I VEGE-
SHALLQW : TAT1ON
RSHINO
'GEAR
OBJECT
MO
ROOM
DAMAGED
TRAWL
NET HUMS
UP
OTHER
(EXPLA(N)
OBJECTS IN NET?
IF OBJECTS WERE PRESENT. PLACE A CHECK BEtQW €ACH KIND,
DESCRIBE VEGETATION IN THE COMMENTS SECTION.
PlASTIC
MEDICAL
WASTE
CANS
TIR£5
GLASS '
PAPER
NATURAL
WOOD
MODIF.
WOOD
FJSHING
GEAR
ROCKS
TION
OTHER
EXPLAIN
INVERTEBRATES IN NET?
IF INVERTEBRATES WERE PRESENT, PLACE A CHECK •
BELOW EACH KIND, DO NOT INCLUDE JELLYFISH,
SLUE
r CRABS
HORSE-
SHOi CR
SPIDER
CRABS
OTHER
CRABS
ECHINO-
DEKMS
BI-
VALVES
GASTRO-
PODS
SQUID
SHRIMP
SHRIMP
LOB-
STERS
OTHEft
INVERT,
COMMENTS;
COMPLETED BY;
C2000 NORTHEAST FTRLODHC.FRP
FT
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Coastal 2000 Field Operations Manual
Date: 4/26/00
Page 66 of 68
C2000 - FISH LENGTH DATA SHEET
STATION || " i MMD
TRAWL SAMPLE ID "I
COMMON TC
MAME
DYY
• »
STAL CAUC3HT
\ _L
CHEM COMPOSITE
FC1 or FC2
SHEET NUMBER j
FOU SPECIE S ' — °' —
PATH = PAT WM.UOY, Crttmi-fWiMKTW, TO-TAMOT QA. PQ.PATHQIOOT Oft. LOOK FOR THE FOLLOWINQ PATttOLCMliS OJH.Y; L^ LUMPS, Q- GROWTHS,
U =ULCSH3, F x FIN ffiOSlfiM, 31 - GILL ER£$ION, GO •"•SUL DISCQLORftTIOW. PLACE A CHECK Ull Hfc ftP*«QPfllATi iOM(S».
CHEM
n
Path lOffitttaB Patti Location -J-Q
i i n.. n i
d M ytl 1
nDL" GDM
g^q # ' Length (mml |
Bail Location Path L
LJ
PQ
n
CHEM
n
ocaBon TO
. nr"'- ' F| J| |_|
uDf - .J GDUL
Seq # Length (mml i |
PQ
n
CHEM
[_j
Palh L.cyyttan Qalb Location -J-Q
i nr . HJ
fit 1 1 • utf i
uiii r ' GDLJ
S«a # Length (mml |
Path Lficatifio Path L
, 1 i 1 " Fll
«| if GE'I t
nl i i . GPLJ i
Seq # Length fmiml '
Eafli Lflcalina Path i
,111 Fll
eD r otjj
U
. . J PQ
i n-
CHEM
n
sceiian TQ
U
PQ
n
CHEM
| . |
QSiilafl TO
1 1
PO
uU LZi; GDU ' . , 1 !
SfiQ # Length 1m ml 1
Patfi Locailon Path • i.
it M n i •.
nl II '."'..I GEJ t
CHEWL
( |
pcatioa TQ
1 |
. . ... PQ
uD C7."' 'GDD 1 1
geq ^ Lenath (mmi
Path Location Bath L
iM'i •' ' F| M '
«l 1 1 Gl£l 1
..'. 1 1 GDH
CHEM
.0 cation YQ
LJ
PCI
n
I
BARCODE LABEL 1
.. i
BARCODE LABEL 1
f
BARCODE LABEL 1
• ,,
BARCODE LABEL 1
..
BARCODE LABEL 1
_| " _JLJ "'
BARCODE LABEL 1
Ml - i -
BARCODE LABEL 1
pad
-------
SdQ $ Lsncith (mrrll1
paft Location Bath
ifii i FI:J
uLJL_ ! GDl H
'*»«« # L enath (fniTi)
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COMMENTS:
COMPLETED BY:
pad
-------
Coastal 2000 Field Operations Manual
Date: 4/26/00
Page 67 of 68
SAMPLE SHIPMENT FORM » C2000 NORTHEAST
SHIPMENT ID
DATE
SENT
PAGE of
PACKED BY;
CARRIER
CARRIER ID
FED
EX.
HAND
CARRY
i •-•"
OTHER
DESTINATION
GULF
BREEZE
. . :.
D
OTHEfl
SAMPLE ID
SAMPLE ID
i
COMMENTS/PACKING CONDITIONS: ......_
COMPLETED BY:
C2CKX1 NORTHEAST iHIPOOHC.FRP 4,'2E,'QO SSH
-------
-------
Coastal 2000 Field Operations Manual
Date: 4/26/00
Page 68 of 68
HYDROLAB CALIBRATION
LAB DATA SHEET - C2000 NORTHEAST
EPA TAB i
12 HOURS BEFORE CALIBRATION
OXYGEN ZERO READING, mg/L {MEMBRANE OFF, PROBE DRY}
DO MEMBRANE TIME
CHANGE? (24 HRJ ;
CONDUCTIVITY PINS !
Y/N
=OLISHED?
_!
MAIN BATTERIES CHANGED? Y/N |
PRE-CALIBRATIQN C
(LAST NAME, FIRST
ONDUCTED BY:
IMITI AM
INI I IALJ
DATE
(MMODYYJ
pH REFERENCE ELECTROLYTE CHANGED?
Y/N j I
NEW VOLTAGE? IV) »
COMMENTS:
CALIBRATION CHECKLIST
TIME, 24 HR {at least 12 tir
after membrane change)
DATE
(MMDDYY)
SET pH 7? < Y/N }
SALINITY ( Y/N }
SET OXYGEN % SAT.? ( Y/N )
SETpH 10? f Y/N j
BAROMETRIC PRESSURE
DEPTH (ZERO) ( Y/N
760
PRE-CALfBRATION CONDUCTED BY:
(LAST NAME, FIRST INITIAL)
COMMENTS:
COMPLETiPBY:
C20CO NORTHEAST H fCAOO«C.FHP pad 4^26/00 HC
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