008 Annual Report
lonitoring and Assessing the Health
f Our Oceans and Coastal Waters
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Table of Contents
Executive Summary 1
Introduction 3
The Ocean Survey Vessel Bold 4
Green Activities Onboard the OSV Bold 6
No Discharge Practices 6
Lower Sulfur Dioxide Emissions 6
Better Hull Coating 6
Non-toxic Fire-Fighting Foam 7
Ballast Water Management 7
Best Management Practices 7
2008 Scientific Survey Highlights 8
Alaska Cruise Ship Impact Assessment 9
Assessment and Monitoring of EPA-Designated Ocean
Dredged Material Disposal Sites 11
Coastal Water, Sediment, and Organism Toxicity Assessments 13
Invasive Coral Species Impacts Assessment 14
Support to Federal, State, and Academic Partners 15
Public Education on EPA's Oceans and Coastal Programs 17
Scientific Surveys in 2009 18
Appendix 1: OSV Bold Facilities, Equipment, and Capabilities 19
Appendix 2: Scientific Surveys and Public Education Events in 2008 20
Cover Photo: The OSV Bold docked in Skagway Harbor, Alaska.
Photo by: Elizabeth Kim, U.S. Department of State
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Executive Summary
Ui ENV1SONMEWTSI
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The OSV Bold docked in San Francisco, California.
The mission of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency's
(EPA's) Ocean Survey Vessel Bold (OSV Bold) is to support
EPA-regulated activities by monitoring and assessing the
health of our oceans and coastal waters. The information
gathered by the OSV Bold allows EPA to more effectively con-
trol pollution sources, whether from land or the ocean. As a
floating laboratory, the OSV Bold is helping to chart a health-
ier course for our oceans.
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EPA welcome banner displayed during an open ship event in San Diego, California.
This is the third OSV Bold Annual Re-
port. It highlights the vessel's 2008 scien-
tific survey capabilities, accomplishments,
and the unique role that this vessel plays in
supporting EPA's monitoring and assess-
ment programs. In 2008, the OSV Bold
supported scientific surveys over a wide
variety of geographic areas of the U.S., in-
cluding the Taiya Inlet in Alaska, the Gulf
of Mexico, the Florida Keys, and the Pacific
Coast. These missions included monitoring
ocean dredged material disposal sites,
monitoring contaminant levels in sediments
and aquatic organisms, and assessing
coastal eutrophication and hypoxia. During
this period, the OSV Bold completed 36
oceanographic surveys, involving 125 sam-
pling locations, while spending 235 days at
sea.
Scientific surveys completed in 2008:
• Conducted an assessment of cruise ship
impacts in Skagway Harbor and Taiya
Inlet, Alaska.
• Conducted monitoring for 30 ocean
dredged material disposal sites man-
aged by EPA.
• Evaluated contaminant levels of sedi-
ment in the Southern California Bight
and Puget Sound.
• Monitored nutrient concentrations and
zooplankton in Puget Sound.
• Assessed the impact of an invasive
coral species within the Florida Keys
National Marine Sanctuary.
• Assessed the extent of hypoxia along
the coast of Oregon.
• Supported Federal, State, Territorial,
and academic partners.
In 2008, various survey partners con-
tributed to the OSV Bald's successful op-
eration, including: U.S. Army Corps of En-
gineers; U.S. Geological Survey; National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration;
Alaska Department of Environmental Con-
servation; Florida Department of Environ-
mental Protection; Oregon Department of
Fish and Wildlife; Oregon Department of
Environmental Quality; Oregon Department
of Land Conservation and Development;
University of Washington; Washington De-
partment of Fish and Wildlife; and Wash-
ington Department of Ecology.
In addition to supporting scientific sur-
veys on a number of environmental issues,
the OSV Bold hosted nine public education
events in 2008. During these events, EPA
scientists gave tours and conducted pres-
entations for visitors. The OSV Bold hosted
these events in Alaska, Washington, Ore-
gon, California, and Mississippi.
EPA's Ocean Survey Vessel Bold 2008 Annual Report
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Introduction
Our oceans and coasts are unique re-
sources that support a wide diversity of
life. We depend on these complex ecosys-
tems to provide us with places to live, play,
relax, and work. Our national economy is
linked in a number of ways to the produc-
tivity of our oceans and coasts. For in-
stance, in 2004, the ocean economy con-
tributed more than $138 billion to Ameri-
can prosperity, and supported more than
two million jobs, according to market data
from the National Ocean Economics Pro-
gram. Of no less value are the marine re-
sources that are difficult to measure eco-
nomically, such as the beauty of our oceans
and coasts, their cultural significance, and
the vital ecosystem functions they provide.
< Coral species
native to the
i Florida Keys
, National Marine
Sanctuary.
Human actions can adversely affect our
oceans and coastal waters. Polluted sedi-
ments resulting from industrial activities
and operations can significantly alter
aquatic ecosystems. Improper discharge of
wastewater from shore or from vessels can
be a threat to public health and marine life.
Exposure to toxic chemical and patho-
genic contamination negatively affects the
entire food web. If not managed properly,
ocean and coastal resources can be dam-
aged by habitat modification, dredging,
construction, and other human activities.
The future health of our ocean and
coastal resources depends on our actions
Dolphins swim-
ming along side
OSV Bold near
the Florida Keys.
today. To protect and safeguard these re-
sources, EPA undertakes many efforts to
identify and control problems threatening
the health of our oceans and coastal wa-
ters. Gathering information and analyzing
data to support management decisions are
essential parts of marine resource protec-
tion. The Ocean Survey Vessel Bold (OSV
Bold) supports EPA-regulated activities by
surveying oceans and coasts to: monitor
and sustain the health of our coastal wa-
ters and shores; protect human health;
support economic and recreational activi-
ties; and influence actions that safeguard
healthy habitat for fish, plants, and wildlife.
Monitoring and Assessing the Health of Our Oceans and Coastal Waters
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The Ocean Survey Vessel Bold
The OSV Bold was constructed by the
Tacoma Boat Building Company of Tacoma,
Washington, and was first commissioned
on October 16, 1989, as the United States
Naval Ship (USNS) Vigorous, a Tactical
Auxiliary General Ocean Survey class ves-
sel. The vessel was later renamed the
USNS Bold and served on many surveil-
lance missions in the Pacific Ocean. The
Navy decommissioned the USNS Bold in
2004. EPA acquired the ex-USNS Bold on
March 31, 2004, to replace the Peter W.
Anderson, EPA's previous ocean survey
vessel. EPA began scientific surveys with
the OSV Bold on August 8, 2005.
The OSV Bold underwent dramatic
changes in her transformation from a mili-
tary surveillance vessel to an oceans and
coastal waters monitoring vessel. EPA im-
proved the deck machinery and added wet
and dry laboratories, including a data ac-
quisition laboratory where information is
transmitted from the sampling equipment
to computers. Sampling equipment in-
cludes a side scan sonar that produces
digital acoustic images of the ocean floor
and a water profiler that measures physical
water characteristics throughout the water
column in real-time. For a detailed list of
scientific facilities and technical equipment
on the OSV Bold, see Appendix 1.
Quick Facts About
the OSV Bold
Overall length: 224 feet
Width: 43 feet
Draft: 15 feet
Water displacement: 2300 tons
Operating speed: 11 knots
Ship operating crew: 19
Scientific berths: 20
The OSV Bold docked in Eureka, California.
4 EPA's Ocean Survey Vessel Bold 2008 Annual Report
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The OSV Bold is managed by EPA's
Oceans and Coastal Protection Division, in
the Office of Water. The EPA Vessel Man-
ager, Kennard Potts, provides direction to
Seaward Services, Inc. (EPA's contractor).
Seaward Services provides the sea-going
crew; handles the operation and mainte-
nance of the vessel; provides logistic sup-
port and contract management; and pro-
vides engineers, when needed, specializing
in marine, mechanical, electrical, elec-
tronic, acoustical, or ocean engineering.
During 2008, the OSV Bold supported
surveys along the Pacific Coast, in the Gulf
of Mexico, in Alaska's Taiya Inlet, and in
the Florida Keys. The OSV Bold provides
EPA and its partners a platform to gather
the scientific data needed to assess the
marine environment, and to make informed
decisions to protect these resources and
human health. EPA's partners in 2008 in-
cluded the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers;
U.S. Geological Survey; National Oceanic
and Atmospheric Administration; Alaska
Department of Environmental Conserva-
tion; Florida Department of Environmental
Protection; Oregon Department of Fish and
Wildlife; Oregon Department of Environ-
mental Quality; Oregon Department of
Land Conservation and Development; Uni-
versity of Washington; Washington Depart-
ment of Natural Resources; Washington
Department of Fish and Wildlife; and Wash-
ington Department of Ecology.
Scientific surveys conducted onboard
the OSV Bold address requirements of fed-
eral statutes such as the Clean Water Act
and the Marine Protection, Research, and
Sanctuaries Act. The surveys provide scien-
tific information and data to support EPA's
mission to protect and enhance ocean and
coastal waters through a variety of pro-
grams, including partnerships and regula-
tory actions, as well as response to emer-
gencies. Surveys are conducted by scien-
tists from various EPA offices, including re-
gional offices, the Office of Water, and the
Office of Research and Development;
states and territories; academic institu-
tions; and other partners. All surveys are
conducted under the leadership of EPA-
certified Chief Scientists, who must com-
plete a rigorous certification program be-
fore serving in that capacity.
EPA scientists stabilizing a grab sediment sampler in
a frame before deployment.
Monitoring and Assessing the Health of Our Oceans and Coastal Waters
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Green Activities Onboard the OSV Bold
The OSV Bold supports EPA's mission to
protect ocean and coastal environments.
Staff and crew are dedicated to operating
the vessel in the most environmentally sus-
tainable way possible. Best management
practices coupled with the latest technolo-
gies ensure that the vessel is not degrading
the resources that we seek to protect.
New technologies and best management
practices are utilized to reduce the impact
of sewage, oil, and hull coatings that are
part of the normal operation of the vessel.
No Discharge Practices
The discharge of untreated or partially-
treated human waste from vessels can con-
tribute to high bacteria counts and subse-
quent increased human health risks. These
problems can be particularly harmful in
lakes, slow-moving rivers, marinas, and
other bodies of water with low flushing
rates. Blackwater (sewage) and graywater
(wastewater from showers, sinks, laun-
dries, and kitchens) are kept in holding
tanks on the OSV Bold. The waste in the
holding tanks is usually pumped to an on-
shore facility at the end of a mission. If a
holding tank fills on a voyage, a marine
sanitation device treats and disinfects the
waste. After treatment, waste (containing
blackwater and graywater) is disposed of
only beyond three nautical miles from the
shoreline.
In addition, all shipboard-generated gar-
bage, cooking oils, and greases are col-
lected and disposed of at onshore facilities.
Any liquid collected in the bilge is disposed
of onshore in special reception facilities.
Strict rules apply to disposal of all chemi-
cals used in ship laboratories.
Lower Sulfur Dioxide Emissions
Sulfur dioxide is an air pollutant that
ships generate from burning fuel and that
can travel over long distances. It contrib-
utes to respiratory illness and the forma-
tion of acid rain. Whenever available, the
OSV Bold uses an ultra low-sulfur fuel that
significantly reduces harmful air emissions.
Better Hull Coating
Hull coatings prevent corrosion as well
as biological growth. These coatings reduce
drag and increase fuel efficiency of a ves-
sel. The hull coating on the OSV Bold does
not contain organotin pesticides, and is
certified as compliant with the International
Maritime Organization's International Con-
vention on the Control of Harmful Anti-
fouling Systems on Ships. Information col-
lected by EPA and the Department of De-
fense (DoD) indicates that the hull coating
used on the OSV Bold has the lowest cop-
per leach rate of hull coatings approved for
use on DoD vessels. A lower leach rate
means a lower impact to surrounding wa-
ters.
EPA's Ocean Survey Vessel Bold 2008 Annual Report
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EPA scientists deploy survey equipment off the coast of Tampa, Florida.
Non-toxic Fire-Fighting Foam
EPA uses fire-fighting foam that can
handle any possible fires on the ship; the
foam is also environmentally safe. This
protein-based foam ensures efficient fire
control.
Ballast Water Management
Ballast water tanks temporarily hold wa-
ter to provide draft (immersion depth of a
vessel) and stability. Ballast water dis-
charged and transported by vessels may
carry organisms from one waterbody to
another. This is a main vector for introduc-
ing and spreading aquatic invasive species
(nonnative species that can cause harm to
human health, the environment, or the
economy). As part of standard operating
procedure, ballast water exchange
(emptying and refilling ballast tanks) is
done by the OSV Bold at sea to limit trans-
fer of invasive species between ports.
Best Management Practices
Best management practices are em-
ployed in daily operations of the OSV Bold.
Oil is carefully collected, and fueling of en-
gines on rigid-hull inflatable boats is done
with the utmost care to avoid spills. Special
absorbent products and materials are used
to collect drips of oil, grease, or fuel.
In addition, EPA supports shipyards that
employ creativity and innovation to make
their operations more environmentally sus-
tainable.
Monitoring and Assessing the Health of Our Oceans and Coastal Waters
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2008 Scientific Survey Highlights
Figure 1: Scope of OSV Bold Monitoring and Assessments in 2008.
rAK
Skagway
Harbor
Bremerton
Port TownsencP
Port Angeles-
Tacoma .
Olympia
Astorii
Newporl
Florence.
Reedsport (
Coos Bay
Bandonl
Brookingsfl
Eureka
San Francisco
, Anacortes
. Everett
- Seattle
Los Angeles
Long Beach
San Diego
Legend
| EPA Region 10
| EPA Region 9
| EPA Region 6
EPA Region 4
In 2008, the OSV Bold conducted scientific surveys in the Pa-
cific Ocean, the Gulf of Mexico, Alaska's Taiya Inlet, and the
Florida Keys (see Figure 1). While spending 235 days at sea,
the OSV Bold completed a total of 36 oceanographic surveys,
involving 125 sampling locations. In addition, the OSV Bold
held educational events in Alaska, Washington, Oregon, Cali-
fornia, Mississippi, and Florida.
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EPA's Alaska Cruise Ship Im-
pact Assessment
Cruise ships give passengers an oppor-
tunity to enjoy our ocean and coastal re-
sources. As the cruise ship industry ex-
pands, there is a growing concern about
the potential impacts of cruise ship waste
streams released in oceans and coastal wa-
ters. If not managed properly, cruise ship
waste streams can affect water quality and
can alter water column ecology.
EPA currently is involved in a number of
activities addressing the potential environ-
mental impacts of cruise ship waste stream
discharges. In particular, EPA is evaluating
various advanced sewage and graywater
treatment systems and is completing the
Cruise Ship Discharge Assessment Report.
This report assesses the nature, regulation,
and potential impact of sewage, graywater,
oily bilge water, solid waste, and hazardous
waste generated onboard Alaskan cruise
ships.
To further assess the potential impacts
of cruise ship discharges in Alaska, EPA
partnered with the Alaska Department of
Environmental Conservation (ADEC) in July
2008. EPA and ADEC conducted three stud-
ies in Skagway Harbor, which hosted 35
cruise ships in 2008 according to the Skag-
way Convention and Visitors Bureau. EPA
and ADEC scientists used the OSV Bold to
study potential nutrient impacts and dis-
charge dispersal from cruise ships in Skag-
way Harbor by: (1) tracking treated sew-
age and graywater discharge plumes
The OSV Bold, along with cruise ships, docked in Skagway Harbor, Alaska.
Monitoring and Assessing the Health of Our Oceans and Coastal Waters 9
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(spreading fluids in the water column) from
cruise ships; (2) determining whether
phytoplankton (tiny aquatic plants), growth
is influenced by nutrients in cruise ships
discharges; and (3) determining anthropo-
genic (human-influenced) effects on nutri-
ent uptake by macroalgae. Results of these
studies currently are being reviewed.
To track treated sewage and graywater
discharge plumes, scientists added a tracer
dye to treated cruise ship sewage and
graywater; the dye concentration was
measured as the treated wastewater was
discharged from ships into Skagway Har-
bor. These data will help the scientists de-
termine the near-field dilution (i.e., dilution
within 15 meters of the point of discharge)
of cruise ship discharge plumes.
To determine the potential effect of nu-
trients from treated cruise ship wastewater
on phytoplankton, scientists added various
forms and combinations of nitrogen and
phosphorus to water samples collected
from Skagway Harbor. Additionally, treated
cruise ship wastewater was added to water
samples. Changes in the phytoplankton
population in response to these nutrients
were determined by: (1) measuring
changes in chlorophyll levels (chlorophyll is
a pigment found in plants such as phyto-
plankton); and (2) measuring changes in
the densities of various phytoplankton size
classes.
Scientists also studied the impacts of
cruise ship discharges on Skagway Harbor
by measuring nutrient uptake by macroal-
gae. Using both native macroalgae col-
lected from Skagway Harbor and labora-
tory-grown macroalgae, scientists meas-
ured nutrient levels to ascertain if nitrogen
uptake by macroalgae is linked to anthro-
pogenic nutrient sources such as cruise
ship discharges.
EPA scientists deploy a water profiler to measure
physical characteristics — such as conductivity, tem-
perature, and depth — of the water column in Skagway
Harbor, Alaska.
10
EPA's Ocean Survey Vessel Bold 2008 Annual Report
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Assessment and Monitoring of
EPA-Designated Ocean Dredged
Material Disposal Sites
The nation's ports, harbors, and naviga-
ble waterways are vital to the U.S. econ-
omy and national security. Dredging is the
removal of sediments to maintain access to
those areas, and has become increasingly
important as ships increase in size.
Dredged material disposal must be con-
ducted in a safe and environmentally ac-
ceptable manner under requirements of the
Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuar-
ies Act (MPRSA), or the Clean Water Act.
Under the MPRSA, EPA is responsible for
designating ocean dredged material dis-
posal sites, and for reviewing and concur-
ring on dredged material ocean disposal
permits issued by the U.S. Army Corps of
Engineers. The MPRSA also requires that a
site monitoring and management plan be
prepared for each site before it may be
used for dredged material disposal. An es-
sential component of site monitoring and
management plans is a characterization of
baseline environmental conditions before
any disposal activity is conducted at the
site so that changes in benthic habitat re-
sulting from disposal activities can be iden-
tified during future surveys.
An important mission of the OSV Bold is
to collect environmental data that can be
used to designate new disposal sites, and
to perform the required periodic monitoring
of existing designated ocean disposal sites.
EPA scientists used the OSV Bold to assess
and monitor conditions at a number of
ocean dredged material disposal sites
(ODMDS). Under the MPRSA, ODMDS trend
assessment surveys are required to evalu-
ate the extent and trends of environmental
impacts of dredged material disposal. Along
the coast of Oregon, EPA scientists used
the OSV Bold to perform several ODMDS
trend assessments. EPA scientists collected
sediment samples to determine physical
and chemical characteristics, and collected
benthic invertebrate samples to determine
species presence, composition, and abun-
dance. EPA scientists also performed side
scan sonar and dive surveys to document
bathymetry (seafloor bottom topography)
and to record benthic habitat features.
These data will help scientists establish
baseline conditions for designating new
EPA disposal sites at Siuslaw and Yaquina
Bays; determine physical characteristics of
sediments in the U.S. Army Corps of Engi-
neers' Columbia River navigation channel;
and assess conditions in two research sites
in the Mouth of the Columbia Deep Water
Site.
In the State of California, EPA scientists
conducted surveys at three ODMDSs to as-
sess the impacts of dredged material dis-
posal. These sites are located along the
San Francisco Bay/Delta Estuary, the larg-
est estuary on the West Coast of the U.S.
This estuary supports a highly concentrated
population, and drains a large amount of
land area in California. As a result, the es-
tuarine environment has been adversely
impacted by human activities such as habi-
tat modification for development projects
Monitoring and Assessing the Health of Our Oceans and Coastal Waters 11
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and associated construction dredging, as
well as regular maintenance dredging. EPA
scientists used side scan sonar to physi-
cally characterize the seabed and sedi-
ments at, and in the vicinity of, these three
sites.
EPA scientists also used the OSV Bold to
confirm that dredged material is disposed
properly at ocean disposal sites, that the
dumping does not unreasonably degrade or
endanger human health or the marine en-
vironment, and that the sites are perform-
ing as expected. Conditions at disposal
sites located offshore of Los Angeles, San
Diego, and Eureka, California, were as-
sessed by EPA scientists to determine if the
monitoring and management of the sites is
effective and to ensure that dredged mate-
rial disposal is not adversely affecting the
sites. In addition to side scan sonar sur-
veys, EPA scientists collected sediment
samples for physical and chemical analyses
to confirm suitability from pre-disposal
testing.
In 2008, EPA scientists used the OSV
Bold to characterize bottom habitat and
water conditions at the Tampa ODMDS in
the Gulf of Mexico. Maintenance dredging
of ship channels is important for commer-
cial marine transportation in Tampa Bay.
Since options for beneficial use or disposal
of dredged material are limited in this area,
there is an increased need for using more
of the Tampa ODMDS. Though the site is
quite large and deep, its capacity to receive
more dredged material is somewhat hin-
dered by the presence of a "Briar Patch"
habitat. This habitat is a disposal mound of
dredged material which now serves as a
habitat for sessile (not free-moving) com-
munities and finfish populations. During
this survey, scientists also identified and
characterized the species that inhabit the
"Briar Patch" to assess the possible impacts
of increased dredged material disposal.
This continuing effort in Tampa, Florida,
will provide the critical data needed for
managing disposal within the ODMDS in
the most environmentally-protective man-
ner.
Selection of appropriate sites to receive
suitable dredged material, as well as sub-
sequent monitoring of designated ODMDSs,
protects the marine environment. The OSV
Bold also helps locate and assess potential
EPA scientists load survey equipment onto a
rigid-hulled inflatable boat.
12
EPA's Ocean Survey Vessel Bold 2008 Annual Report
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new areas to receive dredged material. Be-
fore designating a site for dredged material
disposal, EPA scientists must ensure that
activities at the proposed site do not affect
areas of natural, scientific, historical, or
cultural importance.
A proposed ODMDS, located offshore of
the Chandeleur Islands, Louisiana, is being
designated to support the deepening and
widening of the Gulfport Federal Navigation
Channel. In 2007, a sediment mapping sur-
vey was conducted to determine baseline
conditions at this proposed ODMDS. In
2008, EPA scientists continued characteriz-
ing baseline conditions by documenting the
bathymetry of the proposed site.
Port Cities Near ODMDSs
Surveyed by the OSV Bold
California: San Diego, Long Beach,
Los Angeles, San Francisco, and
Eureka
Oregon: Brookings, Bandon, Coos
Bay, Florence, Newport, Reedsport,
and Astoria
Washington: Tacoma, Olympia, Se-
attle, Everett, Bremerton, Port Town-
send, Anacortes, and Port Angeles
Mississippi: Gulfport
Florida: Tampa
EPA's Coastal Water, Sediment,
and Organism Toxicity Assess-
ments
The OSV Bold performed numerous sur-
veys to assess contaminant concentrations
in sediments, water, and organisms. Levels
of potentially harmful chemicals such as
polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), dichloro-
diphenyl-trichloroethane (DDT), dioxins,
and furans were assessed in offshore wa-
ters along the West Coast and in Puget
Sound, Washington.
The Washington State Dredged Material
Management Program (DMMP)—a partner-
ship between EPA, U.S. Army Corps of En-
gineers, Washington Department of Natural
Resources, and Washington Department of
Ecology—ensures that dredged material
disposal does not harm human health or
the environment, maintains the Puget
Sound open-water disposal program, and
ensures consistency with regulatory re-
quirements. The DMMP is developing new
procedures for evaluating dredged material
containing dioxins, furans, and PCBs, and
considering alternatives for determining the
suitability of this dredged material for un-
confined, open-water disposal. Before final-
izing evaluation procedures, the DMMP
needed additional information on Puget
Sound conditions. Scientists on the OSV
Bold collected sediment samples from
throughout Puget Sound and analyzed
them for PCBs, dioxins, and furans. These
data will be used to evaluate the economic,
environmental, and regulatory conse-
quences of the new evaluation procedures.
Monitoring and Assessing the Health of Our Oceans and Coastal Waters 13
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Potentially harmful levels of DDT have
been recorded in the Southern California
Bight. Historical discharges (1950s to mid-
1970s) from the Los Angeles County Sani-
tation District's ocean outfall is likely the
primary source of DDT in these waters. Pe-
riodic monitoring of DDT in the Southern
California Bight is accomplished through
coordinated efforts between EPA and fed-
eral, local, and academic partners. The two
goals of periodic monitoring are to: (1)
complete a contaminant budget for DDT
and other contaminants such as PCBs; and
(2) determine the distribution of DDT be-
yond the mainland shelf. In 2008, EPA sup-
ported monitoring efforts by using the OSV
Bold to sample sediments within the South-
ern California Bight. Scientists performed
chemical and biological analyses of, and
measured total DDT amounts in, sediment
samples.
Low levels of dissolved oxygen (DO)
have been reported in coastal waters of
Oregon and Washington. These changes
are periodic and caused by natural upwell-
ing events where colder, oxygen poor, and
nutrient-rich waters are brought towards
the coast. These events are becoming
longer in duration and more frequent,
causing hypoxia, an environmental condi-
tion where DO is so low that the system no
longer supports aquatic organisms. Hy-
poxia along the coast of Oregon and in
Puget Sound's Hood Canal has been killing
fish and invertebrates during summer
months. In 2008, the OSV Bold monitored
the coastal waters of Oregon. EPA scien-
tists used a water profiler to measure con-
ductivity, temperature, DO, and additional
physical properties. These data will be used
to determine the timing, severity, and ex-
tent of DO depletion along the Oregon
coast.
Aquatic invasive species, Tubastraea coccinea (orange cup
coral).
Aquatic Invasive Species Im-
pacts Assessment
Aquatic invasive species have affected
all coastal waters of the U.S., including
Alaska, Hawaii, and the Pacific Islands. The
most common sources of aquatic invasive
species include ballast water discharges,
escapes from aquaculture sources, and ac-
cidental or intentional introductions. Inva-
sive species can affect aquatic ecosystems
either directly or indirectly; they can de-
crease native populations, modify water
tables, and change run-off dynamics.
These changes in turn can affect many rec-
reational and commercial activities.
14
EPA's Ocean Survey Vessel Bold 2008 Annual Report
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In 2008, EPA scientists conducted a sur-
vey within the Florida Keys National Marine
Sanctuary to assess the impacts of a non-
native coral species, Tubastraea coccinea
(T. coccinea'). This nonnative coral species
has the potential to negatively impact na-
tive coral reef communities due to several
factors, including: (1) its high reproduction
rates; (2) its ability to kill tissues in native
corals; (3) the lack of a natural predator in
Florida waters; and (4) its ability to out-
compete native coral species for important
resources.
EPA scientists collected tissue samples
from the nonnative coral and photographed
both invasive and native coral colonies.
These data will help scientists determine
the colony/population growth and recruit-
ment rates (the rate at which free-
swimming coral larvae settle onto coral
reefs) in the nonnative species. These data
will also help them determine if T. coccinea
is an aquatic invasive species causing
changes in the native coral population,
such as low levels of biodiversity and low
recruitment rates.
Support to Federal, State, and
Academic Partners
In 2008, the OSV Bold supported fed-
eral, state, and academic partners in a
number of oceanographic surveys.
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) used
the OSV Bold to conduct research on the
potential risks associated with geological
hazards, such as tsunamis, submarine
landslides, and earthquakes, caused by off-
shore faults along the southern coast of
California. In this survey, USGS scientists
recorded a series of high-resolution seismic
profiles within and around the San Diego
Trough and Coronado Bank faults. These
profiles will help scientists characterize the
size, extent, and activity of these faults.
Using these data, scientists will achieve
several goals, including: (1) tracing active
faults and associated structures; (2) identi-
fying features for stratigraphic (rock layer)
sampling; (3) determining the maximum
magnitude of earthquakes from offshore
faults; (4) improving interpretation of the
sub-bottom features; and (5) providing in-
formation on Southern California ODMDSs,
all of which are located in an active earth-
quake region.
In Washington, there have been many
efforts to understand the factors that influ-
ence water quality in Puget Sound. One
group, the Puget Sound Regional Synthesis
Model, or PRISM, is a partnership between
state, federal, tribal, and academic leaders
working together to: advance more scien-
tific understanding of Puget Sound; con-
tribute to education about Puget Sound;
and provide input for regional planning ef-
forts. For several years, Puget Sound has
had low DO levels, particularly in areas
where flushing rates are low and coastal
development and nutrient inputs are high.
If depletion of DO continues, Puget Sound
may be affected by hypoxia. In 2008, the
OSV Bold worked with PRISM to monitor
water conditions in Puget Sound.
Monitoring and Assessing the Health of Our Oceans and Coastal Waters 15
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PRISM partners, the Washington Depart-
ment of Ecology, and University of Wash-
ington, used the OSV Bold to collect data
on the biological, chemical, and physical
characteristics of Puget Sound waters.
These data will be used to further refine
models of anthropogenic impacts on Puget
Sound.
The National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration (NOAA) and the Washington
Department of Fish and Wildlife (also
PRISM partners) worked together to char-
acterize the geographic extent and the
magnitude of toxins such as PCBs, pesti-
cides, and polybrominated diphenyl ethers
(PBDEs) in phytoplankton and zooplankton
(tiny aquatic animals) living in Puget
Sound. Using the OSV Bold, scientists col-
lected biological samples, and later ana-
lyzed the samples for toxins at the NOAA's
National Marine Fisheries Service ecotoxi-
cology labs. These data will be used to help
scientists understand how these toxins are
transported through the ocean food web.
Every year in Puget Sound, shellfish har-
vesting is halted as a result of harmful lev-
els of paralytic shellfish toxins — poisonous
toxins that can cause numbness, paralysis,
disorientation, and death if ingested by hu-
mans. Paralytic shellfish toxins are byprod-
ucts of harmful algal species that accumu-
late in shellfish tissues. The first docu-
mented closing of shellfish harvesting, in
2003, was due to high concentrations of
domoic acid (a neurotoxin produced from
harmful algal species). During the survey,
EPA scientists sampled Puget Sound for do-
moic acid to determine the levels and spa-
tial distribution of harmful algal species.
The Washington Department of Ecology
and NOAA also used the OSV Bold to moni-
tor the carbon chemistry in Puget Sound.
Increased carbon dioxide levels have been
found in, and are gradually acidifying,
these waters. Using a water profiler, scien-
tists measured the water column for acid-
ity; alkalinity (the ability to neutralize ac-
ids); carbon dioxide partial pressure; and
levels of dissolved inorganic carbon. These
data will be used to assess patterns of an-
thropogenic contributions of carbon diox-
ide, and to monitor changes in ocean acidi-
fication.
Public Education on EPA's
Oceans and Coastal Programs
When in port between scientific surveys,
the OSV Bold was used for environmental
education on challenging issues facing the
health of marine waters. In 2008, the OSV
Bold hosted open ship visits in Alaska,
Washington, Oregon, California, and Missis-
sippi. Scientists described the OSV Bold's
scientific facilities, sampling equipment,
and dive-operation capabilities to the pub-
lic.
While in Seattle, Washington, the OSV
Bold hosted an event in which EPA scien-
tists demonstrated some of the work con-
ducted around the Puget Sound by EPA and
our partners. Participants included senior
EPA regional management; members of the
U.S. Congress; representatives from the
16
EPA's Ocean Survey Vessel Bold 2008 Annual Report
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EPA scientist demonstrates survey equipment
Puget Sound Partnership; and local elected
officials and members of tribal govern-
ments.
In Portland, Oregon, the OSV Bold
hosted events in conjunction with the Port-
land Rose Festival. EPA partnered with the
Oregon Museum of Science and Industry,
giving tours and conducting presentations
for visitors.
to visitors.
In Gulfport, Mississippi, EPA scientists
held an event in coordination with various
partners including EPA's Gulf of Mexico Pro-
gram; University of Southern Mississippi;
Mississippi Department of Marine Re-
sources; and the Gulf of Mexico Governors'
Alliance. During this event, visitors learned
about state-of-the-art technology and sci-
entific methods used for oceanographic
surveys aboard the OSV Bold, as well as
The OSV Bold docked in Seattle, Washington.
Monitoring and Assessing the Health of Our Oceans and Coastal Waters 17
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Scientific Surveys in 2009
EPA scientists deploy survey equipment from the A-frame off the coast of Eureka, California.
Photo by Marcel Belaval, U.S. EPA
OSV Bold surveys scheduled for 2009 include:
• Assessment and Monitoring of
EPA-designated Ocean
Dredged Material Disposal
Sites
• Fish Waste Disposal Site As-
sessment and Monitoring
• Ocean Outfall Monitoring
Coral Reef Monitoring and
Biocriteria Development
Coastal Water, Sediment, and
Organism Toxicity Assess-
ment
Coastal Eutrophication As-
sessment
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Appendix 1: OSV Bold Facilities,
Equipment, and Capabilities
Scientific Facilities
Wet Laboratory: Equipped with sieve station (i.e.,
sieving table and trays); wash station with hot and
cold freshwater and saltwater; ice machine (for
sample preservation); refrigerator; electronic navi-
gation data ports; and electronic navigation chart
display with ship's location and navigation informa-
tion.
Survey Operations Center: Equipped with refrig-
erators; freezers; sub-zero freezers; distilled wa-
ter; computers; storage space; microscopes; and
85 linear feet of lab benches.
Microbiology Laboratory: Equipped with autoclave
and incubator.
Data Acquisition Center: Equipped with computer
systems to support digital data recorded from side
scan sonar operations; water profiler deployment;
and underwater video filming.
EPA scientist observes an underwater video.
Sampling Equipment
Side Scan Sonar: Produces digital acoustic images
of ocean floor.
Conductivity, Temperature, and Depth Water Profiler:
Measures physical water characteristics in situ in
real-time throughout the water column.
Rosette Water Sampler: Collects water at specified
depths in the water column.
Sediment Sampling Equipment: A variety of grabs
and corers are used for the collection of sediments.
Dredges: Collect oceanic organisms from the sea-
floor and sediments.
Sampling Nets: Collect oceanic organisms, such as
fish and plankton, from various depths in the water
column.
A-Frame: Assists the deployment and retrieval of
the side scan sonar and sediment sampling equip-
ment.
Diver Operation Capabilities
Rigid-Hulled Inflatable Boat (RHIB): At all times,
the OSV Bold carries two RHIBs to support dive
operations.
Dive Locker: Nitrox/Air compressor; 31 SCUBA
tanks; diver communication devices (i.e., diver-to-
diver, diver-to-surface); diver recall system for
emergency situations; dry suits; and full-face
masks available for use by certified diving person-
nel.
EPA scientists onboard a rigid-hulled inflatable
boat in Skagway Harbor, Alaska.
Monitoring and Assessing the Health of Our Oceans and Coastal Waters 19
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Appendix 2: Scientific Surveys and
Public Education Events in 2008
Survey/Event
Alaska Cruise Ship Impacts Assessment
Assessment and Monitoring of EPA-
Designated Ocean Dredged Material Disposal
Sites
Location
Skagway Harbor and Taiya Inlet,
Alaska
San Diego, California
Long Beach, California
Los Angeles, California
San Francisco, California
Eureka, California
Florence, Oregon
Newport, Oregon
Coos Bay, Oregon
Brookings, Oregon
Bandon, Oregon
Astoria, Oregon
Reedsport, Oregon
Olympia, Washington
Tacoma, Washington
Seattle, Washington
Bremerton, Washington
Port Townsend, Washington
Everett, Washington
Port Angeles, Oregon
Anacortes, Washington
Tampa, Florida
Gulfport, Mississippi
Month(s)
June and July
April
April
April
April
May and September
June
June and August
June and August
June and August
June and August
June and August
August
July
July
July
July
July
July
July
July
November
December
20
EPA's Ocean Survey Vessel Bold 2008 Annual Report
-------
Survey/Event
Location
Month(s)
Coastal Water, Sedi-
ment, and Organism
Toxicity Assessments
Aquatic Invasive Spe-
cies Impact Assess-
ment
Support to Federal,
State, and Academic
Partners
DDT Contaminant Budget
Puget Sound Sediment
Puget Sound Water Quality Puget Sound, Washington August
Southern California Bight, April
California
Puget Sound, Washington August
Oregon Coast Hypoxia
Invasive Coral Species
Geological Hazards
Oregon Coast, Oregon
Harmful Algal Species
Ocean Acidification
Public Education on EPA's Oceans and Coastal
Programs
Puget Sound, Washington
Puget Sound, Washington
San Diego, California
Portland, Oregon
Newport, Oregon
Juneau, Alaska
Seattle, Washington
Gulfport, Mississippi
June and August
Florida Keys National Ma- December
rine Sanctuary, Florida
Southern California Bight, April
California
Persistent Organic Pollutants Puget Sound, Washington August
Puget Sound Characteristics Puget Sound, Washington August
Monitoring and Assessing the Health of Our Oceans and Coastal Waters 21
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EPA's Ocean Survey Vessel Bold
2008 Annual Report
Monitoring and Assessing the Health
of Our Oceans and Coastal Waters
Oceans and Coastal Protection Division
Office of Wetlands, Oceans, and Watersheds
Office of Water
EPA West (4504T)
1200 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.
Washington, DC 20460
www.epa.gov/owow
EPA 842-R-09-002
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