v»EPA
United States
Environmental Proloction
Agency
EPA 910-R-15-002
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
     Regional Laboratory Network
          Annual Report 2014

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Cover: Snapshot of environmental laboratory science themes of Protecting Water; Addressing Climate Change; Improving Air
Quality, Toxics and Chemical Safety, Communities; State, Tribal, and Local Partnerships; High-Performing Organization; and
Sustainable Future. Cover photos were obtained from EPA Office of Multimedia intranet site, except for two images listed below.
              Photo:  Water Lily

              Photographer: Steve Donohue/EPA


              Photo:  Trees

              Photographer: Randy Pomponio//EPA

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                                                                                  FY2014 Annual Report
                                  Table of Contents
                                                                                      Page
Executive Summary 	    ii


Section I — U.S. EPA Regional Laboratories/Regional Laboratory Network: An Overview	    1
           U.S. EPA Regional Laboratories 	    2
           Regional Laboratory Network: An Overview 	    4


Section II — Regional Laboratory Network Highlights	    7
           Protecting Water: A Precious, Limited Resource 	    8
           Addressing Climate Change and Improving Air Quality 	   12
           Taking Action on Toxics and Chemical Safety	   14
           Making a Visible Difference in Communities across the Country	   16
           Launching a New Era of State, Tribal, and Local Partnerships	   18
           Embracing EPA as a High-Performing Organization 	   19
           Working toward a Sustainable Future 	   23


Section III — FY2014 Laboratory Accomplishment Results Summary	   25


Section IV— Regional Laboratories Capabilities Tables — FY2014  	   29
            Regional Laboratories Core Capabilities — FY2014	   30
            Regional Laboratories Unique Capabilities — FY2014 	   33
            Regional Laboratories Developing Capabilities — FY2014	   43


Appendix A — Acronyms/Abbreviations 	  A-1
     J
                                    List of Illustrations
Figure
  1.   Analytical Support to EPA Programs in FY2014	
  2.   FY2014 U.S. EPA Regional Laboratories Analyses Provided by Program 	
  3.   Projects/Sites Supported by Regional Laboratory Data FY2014 by Program Element
  4.   Method Development Project Support  to EPA Programs in FY2014	
Page


26

26

27

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                                                                                         FY2014 Annual Report
                                    Executive  Summary

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA)
Regional Laboratories are state-of-the-art, full-service
environmental laboratories delivering analytical
services, field support, expert quality assurance and
data review, and innovative technical assistance.
Laboratory personnel are an integral part of the science
backbone of the Agency. Their skills and expertise
allow the development and  implementation of solutions
to complex issues affecting  human health and the
environment. Ten Regional Laboratories individually
support the  10 regions within the EPA while also
collaborating to form a highly effective Regional
Laboratory Network (RLN).  This report highlights the
diversity of support and capabilities, all of which
reinforce EPA's mission and ongoing priorities.

In Fiscal Year 2014 (FY2014), Regional  Laboratories
performed over 143,000 analyses in support towards
agency priorities and solving emerging environmental
issues. This analytical work supported activities related
to over 1,500 sites and projects associated with a wide
range of agency programs.

To effectively support the EPA Administrator's priorities
and themes, Regional Laboratories demonstrated their
responsiveness and flexibility by pioneering citizen
science programs to enhance sound science within
communities across the nation, researching the effects
of toxins on the natural environment and emerging
threats to human  health, modifying methodologies to
meet the demand of lower risk levels or detection of
unknown threats, responding to emergencies, and
providing defensible data.

Real-time data continued to be an important tool for
environmental decision-making. Regional Laboratories
have a wide-range of field analytical support services
ranging from on-site analysis in mobile laboratories to
screening techniques performed directly in the field. In
FY2014, Regional Laboratories performed over 4,000
field analyses in support of  a combination of 200
projects and sites throughout the country.

Accomplishments presented in this report capture only
a few of the overall activities provided by all Regional
Laboratories. These accomplishments underscore  the
commitment of the RLN to be an integral part in
protecting human health and the environment.

        FY2014 Annual Report Structure

Section I. U.S. EPA Regional Laboratories/
Regional Laboratory Network:  An Overview
Provides introduction and overview of the Regional
Laboratory System.  This section also contains
method development/research collaboration
information to enhance science.
Section II. Regional Laboratory Network
Highlights
Describes accomplishments of the Regional
Laboratories as they relate to EPA Administrator's
Themes.

Section III. FY2014 Laboratory Accomplishmer
Results Summary
Summarizes RLN common support services with
corresponding charts.

Section IV. Regional Laboratories Capabilities
Tables — FY2014
Displays the abilities of Regional Laboratories to
conduct certain  tests within chemistry, physical and
other determinations, and biology.

             EPA Agency Themes
         Meeting the Challenge Ahead
Protecting Water: A Precious, Limited Resource

Addressing Climate Change and Improving Air
Quality

Taking Action on Toxics and Chemical Safety
Making a Visible Difference in Communities across
the Country

Launching a New Era of State, Tribal, and Local
Partnerships

Embracing EPA as a High-Performing Organization

Working toward a Sustainable Future
                                                                                                           I
                                                                                           EPA 910-R-15-002

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                                                             FY2014 Annual Report
    Section I — U.S. EPA Regional Laboratories/Regional Laboratory
                         Network: An Overview
  &EPA
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
EPA 910-R-15-002

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                                                         FY2014 Annual Report

U.S. EPA Regional Laboratories
             Region 1:   New England Regional Laboratory Investigation
                        & Analysis Branch
                        Ernest Waterman, Director
                        Waterman.Ernest@epa.gov
                        11 Technology Drive
                        N. Chelmsford, MA 01863-2431
                        Phone:617-918-8632
                        FAX: 617-918-8540
             Region 2:   Division of Environmental Science and
                        Assessment Laboratory Branch
                        John Bourbon, Director
                        bourbon.iohn@epa.gov
                        2890 Woodbridge Ave.
                        Edison, NJ 08837
                        Phone:732-321-6706
                        Fax:732-321-6165
             Region 3:   Environmental Science Center Laboratory Branch
                        Karen Costa, Manager
                        Costa.Karen@epa.gov
                        701 Mapes Road
                        Ft. Meade, MD 20755-5350
                        Phone:410-305-2689
                        Fax:410-305-3095
             Region 4:   Analytical Support Branch
                        Danny France, Director
                        France.Danny@epa.gov
                        980 College Station Road
                        Athens, GA 30605-2720
                        Phone: 706-355-8551
                        Fax: 706-355-8803
             Region 5:   U.S. EPA Region 5 Laboratory, Chicago Regional
                        Laboratory
                        Dennis Wesolowski, Director
                        wesolowski.dennis@epa.gov
                        536 S. Clark Street
                        Chicago, IL 60605
                        Phone:312-353-9084
                        Fax:312-886-2591

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                                                         FY2014 Annual Report
U.S. EPA Regional Laboratories
             Region 6:   Environmental Services Branch
                        Wes McQuiddy, Director
                        Mcquiddv.David@epa.gov
                        10625 Fallstone Road
                        Houston, TX 77099
                        Phone:214-665-6722
                        Fax:281-983-2124
             Region 7:   Regional Science & Technology Center
                        Margie St. Germain, Director
                        Stgermain.margie@epa.gov
                        300 Minnesota Ave.
                        Kansas City, KS66101
                        Phone:913-551-5154
                        Fax:913-551-7873
             Region 8:   U.S. EPA Region 8 Laboratory
                        Mark Burkhardt, Director
                        Burkhardt.Mark@epa.gov
                        16194 West 45th Drive
                        Golden, CO 80403
                        Phone:303-312-7799
                        Fax:303-312-7800
             Region 9:   U.S. EPA Region 9 Laboratory
                        Duane James, Acting Director
                        James.Duane@epa.gov
                        1337S. 46th Street, Bldg. 201
                        Richmond, CA 94804-4698
                        Phone:510-412-2300
                        Fax:510-412-2302
             Region 10:  Manchester Environmental Laboratory
                        Barry Pepich, Director
                        Pepich.Barry@epa.gov
                        7411 Beach Drive East
                        Port Orchard, WA 98366
                        Phone:360-871-8701
                        Fax:360-871-8747

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                                                                       FY2014 Annual Report
Regional Laboratory  Network:  An Overview


                   EPA has 10 regional offices and each region has a laboratory. The
                   Regional Laboratories provide mission-critical support to the Agency,
                   protecting human health and the environment. Service and expertise
                   provided by each Regional Laboratory are tailored to meet the needs of
                   that particular region or program and to address complex and emerging
                   environmental issues.  In addition to
                   supporting each region, the 10 Regional
                   Laboratories collaborate to form the
                   Regional Laboratory Network (RLN).
                   Efficiency, effectiveness, and flexibility are
                   maximized by using scientific expertise,
                   implementing and developing methods,
                   and maximizing partnerships within RLN
                   and across the nation.
                                         Services tailored to meet
                                           regional needs and to
                                           address complex and
                                         emerging environmental
                                                 issues
                   Environmental decisions and policies
                   provide the RLN with the analytical
                   structure to meet program needs.
                   Regional Laboratories also provide support
                   to national initiatives and research. Each
                                          Support special project-
                                          specific objectives and
                                             goals towards a
                                             sustainable future
                   laboratory within the RLN constantly and consistently meets and supports
                   project-specific objectives, achieves quality goals, provides analytical
                   expertise, and produces accurate data within the Agency.
                                                            Accreditation following
                                                            National Environmental
                                                            Laboratory Accreditation
                                                            Conference (NELAC) or
                                                            International Standards
                                                           Organization (ISO) 17025
EPA Regional Laboratories are committed
to producing quality data. The laboratories
follow EPA organizational directives for a
high-performing organization. All 10
laboratories are accredited by National or
International Accreditation programs
ensuring effective quality systems,
improved performance, and defensible
data.  External assessments are
performed regularly at RLN laboratories.

Contracting mechanisms are used within
the RLN to provide additional procurement
of analytical services. The Contract
Laboratory Program (CLP) provides
standard analytical methods supporting the
Superfund Program. Each laboratory uses
an Environmental Services Assistance
Team (ESAT), which is a contract to support laboratory functions. This
organizational structure permits EPA Regional Laboratories to provide
quick response to emergencies, while providing timely completion of all
projects.  During FY2014, 10 Regional Laboratories supported over
143,000 sample analyses and over 1,500 projects.

                                                             RLN supports Agency
                                                              quick responses to
                                                                 emergencies

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                                                                                         FY2014 Annual Report
                  Regional Laboratory Network:  An Overview
 Regional Laboratory scientists are a valuable resource. Scientists
 have expertise in analytical methods, quality assurance and quality
 control principles, data validation, field analytical techniques, and
                              solving complex analytical projects.
       Support analytical       During FY2014, the 10 Regional
     method improvements      Laboratories supported more than
                              125 method improvement projects.

 Regional Laboratory scientists are certification officers for the Drinking
 Water Laboratory Certification Program and participate in state
 drinking water audit programs. Laboratory scientists also provide
   ^^^^^^^^^^^^^^  management, technical, logistical, and
                             oversight support to EPA, State and
                             tribal programs, operate air monitoring
                             quality assurance programs, and
                             support field sampling functions.
   Serve crucial roles in
  regional drinking water
     audit programs
 EPA Regional Laboratories provided analytical responses to
 approximately 15 significant emergency response events in FY2014.
 EPA Regional Laboratories are capable of analyzing samples
 suspected to contain a variety of chemical and biological compounds,
                            including chemical warfare  agents.
                           Also, some Regional Laboratories
                           developed and validated new methods
                           for chemical warfare agent  degradation
                           compounds that characterize and
                            remediate contaminated areas.
Respond to Homeland
   Security events
Within each Regional Laboratory, core capabilities allow support to
various EPA programs. Unique capabilities provide the flexibility for
each laboratory to meet geographical environmental demands or
regional and national initiatives. Three tables (core,  unique, and
developing) summarize chemical, physical and biological/
                            microbiological capabilities for each
                            region.  The Core, Unique, and
                            Developing capabilities tables for each
                            Regional Laboratory are provided in
                            Section IV and are available on the
                            following EPA websites.
  Core, Unique, and
Developing capabilities
  span across RLN
Regional Laboratories Core Capabilities — FY2014
  http://www.epa.qov/aboutepa/reqional-science-and-technoloqy-lab-core-capabilities

Regional Laboratories Unique Capabilities — FY2014
  http://www.epa.gov/regionallabs/epa-regional-laboratories-unique-analvtical-capabilities-and-documentation-region
Regional Laboratories Developing Capabilities — FY2014
  http://www.epa.gov/measurements/collection-methods

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                                                                 FY2014 Annual Report
           Section II — Regional Laboratory Network Highlights
  xvEPA
United States
Environmental Prelection
Agoncy
EPA 910-R-15-002

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                                                                                         FY2014 Annual Report
               Protecting Water:  A Precious,  Limited Resource
       Ensure drinking water is safe.  Restore and maintain oceans, watersheds, and their
    aquatic ecosystems to protect human health, support economic and recreational activities,
                   and provide healthy habitat for fish, plants, and wildlife.
   Regional Laboratories play an important part in
   protecting and restoring the nation's water
   resources by providing:

   •  key data for regions and their partners and
      target actions to protect human health and
      aquatic ecosystems more efficiently

   •  technical and regulatory support to drinking
      water laboratories and training and support for
      water quality monitoring efforts

   •  analytical support for various projects across
      the U.S.
Drinking Water Laboratory Certification

Laboratories that analyze drinking water samples are
required to be certified by an approved certifying
authority. The Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)
Regional Laboratory personnel, trained certification
officers, conduct on-site evaluation of drinking water
laboratories operated by states and tribal communities.
Certification Officers also conduct audits of state's
certification programs to ensure all laboratories
analyzing drinking water samples are following
approved methods mandated by EPA's National
Primary Drinking Water Regulations. Ultimately, the
effort of the laboratory certification program ensures
drinking water is free from harmful contaminants.  In
FY2014, Regional Laboratories performed 31
evaluations and 14 audits.

         Regional Laboratories supported

  water-related projects, including TMDL Studies
Water Quality Assessment and Total Maximum Daily
Load (TMDL) Program Support

Crucial for management of our water resources, water
quality data are used to characterize waters, identify
trends, identify emerging problems, determine whether
pollution control programs are working, and help direct
pollution control efforts to where they are most needed.

A TMDL is a calculation of the maximum amount of a
pollutant that a waterbody can receive and still meet
water quality standards, and an allocation of that load
among the various sources of that pollutant.  Regional
Laboratories provide substantial analytical support for
water quality assessments to, and TMDL development
for, water bodies throughout the country.
 Methyl Mercury TMDL for San Francisco Bay Delta
 Watershed

 Region 9 Laboratory used its recently-developed
 capability to support a study of methylmercury in the
 San Francisco Bay Delta Watershed. As one of the
 largest and most important estuarine systems on the
 West Coast, the Bay Delta estuary is supplying
 drinking water to 25 million people and irrigation water
 for 4 million acres of farmland. Methylmercury, a
 potent neurotoxin, poses a unique water management
 challenge in the Bay Delta. After establishing a TMDL,
 Region 9 Laboratory, in collaboration with a joint
 project with the Central Valley Regional Water Quality
 Control Board, analyzed multiple sets of water samples
 from agricultural sites. The data provided will be used
 to develop a more accurate baseline of methylmercury
 loads associated with irrigated agriculture, thereby
 refining TMDL levels.
                                                                                            EPA 910-R-15-002

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                                                                                            FY2014 Annual Report
                         rotecting Water:  A Precious, Limited Resource
          TMDL Studies in Springfield, Missouri
      The Wilson, Jordan, and Pearson Creek TMDLs
      were established January 2011 after named as
      impaired waters from multiple-point sources and
      urban nonpoint sources. The pollutant causing the
      impairment is listed as unknown; however, toxicity
      from multiple pollutants and changes in hydrology
      from increased impervious surfaces are the
      suspected cause of the impairment. By
      establishing these TMDLs, EPA met the
      milestones of the 2001 Consent Decree.
      However, after a ruling in 2011, EPA was required
      to further consider impacts based on additional
      water quality.  To meet a settlement agreement,
      Region 7 conducted monthly water and sediment
      sampling and diurnal dissolved oxygen monitoring.
      Water grab samples were analyzed for total
      phosphorus, total nitrogen, suspended solids,
      dissolved solids, total solids, dissolved metals, and
      hardness. Sediment grab samples consisted of
      metals and polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons
      (PAHs).  Water and sediment samples from urban
      streams  in Springfield were collected for over 10
      different  traditional  methods, including metals,
      poly-aromatic hydrocarbons, anions, hardness,
      semi-volatile organics, and pH. This effort
      supports EPA's interest in determining what
      pollutants may be present and whether the  creeks
      meet Missouri  water quality standards and
      effectively restore these streams. The data will be
      used to write pollutant-specific TMDLs for each
      creek.
i
      For more information:

      (American Canoe Association, et al. v. EPA, No.
      98-1195-CV-Win consolidation with No. 98-4282-
      CV-W, February 27, 2001).

      (City of Springfield vs. EPA, etal., (6:11-cv-03383)
      Wilson, Jordon and Pearson Creeks).
        Field Auditing for National Rivers and Streams
        Assessment

        Region 9 Laboratory provided field auditing support for
        the National Rivers and Streams Assessment (NRSA)
        2013-2014. The national survey is designed to estimate
        the percentage of rivers and streams in good, fair, or
        poor condition, help citizens and water quality managers
        evaluate the effectiveness of protection and restoration
        efforts, and take action to prevent pollution. Trained
        sampling crews, consisting of representatives from
        states, tribes,  interstate agencies, and private contracts
        collected samples at 1,800 sites across the country
        using the same methods at each site. Sampling crews
        took numerous measurements, including:
        • temperature, dissolved oxygen, nutrients, pH, and
          more
        • habitat condition along river or stream banks
        • algae  and free-floating plants
        • benthic macroinvertebrates - small aquatic animals:
          insects, snails, and crayfish  (a source of food for fish)
        • bacteria indicators of possible fecal contamination
        • type and abundance offish
        • contaminants in fish tissue.
           I
     Regional Laboratories supported
                HHi
Oversight- or Enforcement-related activities
        Environmental Studies for Ocean-Dredged Material

        Management of dredged material and Ocean-Dredged
        Material Disposal Site (ODMDS) is a shared
        responsibility of EPA and the U.S. Army Corps of
        Engineers (USAGE) under the Clean Water Act (CWA)
        and Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act
        (MPRSA). Each year, USAGE Portland District
        (CENWP) dredges 3-to-5 million cubic yards of
        sediment at the Mouth of the Columbia River (MCR) to
        maintain the 6-mile long, deep-draft, navigation
        entrance channel. MCR-dredged material is placed at
        two EPA-designated ODMDS locations. In 2014,
        Region 10 Laboratory participated in studies designed
        to assess the status of the physical, chemical, and
        biological environment on benthos within previous,
        current, and  future drop zones.
EPA 910-R-15-002

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                                                                                        FY2014 Annual Report
                   Protecting Water: A Precious, Limited Resource
Effectiveness of Storm Water Best Management
Practice (BMP) Evaluated

Since its establishment, EPA made it a goal to adhere
to BMPs to protect the quality of water and soil.
Following BMP guidelines is particularly important when
managing the impacts of nutrient loading that builds
within storm water  runoff and enters receiving waters.
With constantly advancing technology, EPA must
respond to changing times and create new ways to
continue protecting the environment in the most efficient
way possible. To ensure the most current standards,
Region 1 Laboratory partnered with the regional water
program and two municipalities on a study to evaluate
effectiveness of regional storm water BMPs. Partners
conducted a  project to monitor and evaluate the BMPs
that will continue for a minimum of 2 years. The
ultimate goal of this project is to determine the most
effective and practical set of BMP guidelines to reduce
nutrient loads flowing into receiving waters.

For this project, groups worked together to:

1.  Identify key water constituents to be analyzed by
    Region 1 Laboratory and establish general water
    quality parameters to asses performance of BMPs
    in treating storm water.

2.  Develop  a basic Quality Assurance Project Plan
    (QAPP) for use during  BMP construction phases.
    The QAPP will be used to test sample access
    methods and storm water content. Afterwards, a
    second, more-comprehensive QAPP will be
    implemented to carry sampling and analysis of BMP
    performances from post-installation through a
    minimum of 20 rain events and meeting project data
    quality objectives.

3.  Develop  performance rating curves for each BMP
    and create a set of efficient and cost-effective BMP
    guidelines.

The top BMP arrangements chosen will be extremely
valuable in improving EPA's storm water management.
The BMPs selected are expected to help with concerns,
such as mitigating the costs of development and
implementation. The resulting impact of BMP
guidelines will be widespread.
Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Products
fPPCP) from Hospital Discharges

Region 2 Laboratory coordinated a 4-month
collaborative study to characterize PPCP in hospital
effluent and sewage treatment plant (STP) influent/
effluent. The study involved six hospitals discharging
into four STPs in Suffolk County, New York. Suffolk
County field personnel collected the samples from the
six hospitals and four STPs. Region 2 Laboratory, in
collaboration with Region 8 Laboratory, conducted
PPCP analysis of 72 samples, providing results for 206
compounds. Results were used by the Division of
Enforcement and Compliance Assistance  (DECA) in
June 2014.
                   Regional Laboratories
     All

   provide scientific expertise to support
Regional and National Water Programs and
Initiatives, which can  include analysis, field
support, quality assurance and data review,
          and technical support.

                                                                                          EPA 910-R-15-002

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                                                                                              FY2014 Annual Report
                        Protecting Water: A Precious, Limited Resource
     Cvanobacteria Monitoring & Bloom Watch Pilot
     Program

     Cyanobacteria and their associated toxins are of
     particular concern to humans and the ecology.
     Increasing precipitation and land development affects
     nutrient loads to aquatic systems. Impacted water
     systems are shut down when cyanotoxins are in the
     water supply. Ingestion of these algal toxins affects
     people, animals, wildlife, and pets.

     In New England, regional shifts  in monitoring efforts
     highlighted varying cyanobacteria concentrations and
     toxicity levels.  However, different sampling approaches
     and methodology inconsistencies made it extremely
     difficult to aggregate data, understand algae
     characteristics and behavior, and share information
     across the region.

     In 2012, the  Region 1 Laboratory convened a region-
     wide (including New York) cyanobacteria monitoring
     and "bloom watch" workgroup to ensure uniform
     consistency  with cyanobacteria  monitoring methods and
     protocols. The workgroup consisted of state
     environmental water quality and beach monitoring
     programs, departments of public health, tribes, public
     water suppliers, Non-Governmental Organizations
     (NGOs), citizen monitoring groups, and academia. In
     May 2014, the workgroup established a pilot monitoring
     project, which included an algal taxonomic identification
     (ID) workshop, methods training, and instrument
     calibration protocols.  Sampling commenced in June
     2014 in all New England states.

     Three principal monitoring components: were
     established:  in-lake monitoring, shore-side monitoring,
     and a qualitative "bloom watch" component.  In-lake
     monitoring consisted of a minimum of three sampling
     sites with collection of an integrated water sample, a
     cross-section from the surface to 3 meters at each site
     and a filtrate sample.  Shore-side monitoring consisted
     of a minimum of one sample, a  1-meter integrated
     sample and  one filtrate sample. The site locations
     remain consistent; additional sites can be added at the
     discretion of the sampler.

     Protocols allow samples to be analyzed on-site using a
     handheld fluorimeterto measure chlorophyll and
phycocyanin, or frozen to be analyzed at a debriefing
session. Fluorimeters were provided to the New
England states through the Region 1 Water Monitoring
Equipment Loan Program. The "bloom watch"
component established protocols to document time and
location of a perceived algal bloom and track the
frequency and spatial occurrence in the region. Site
photos, can be enhanced at microscopic levels for algal
identification purposes. A demonstration was provided
showing how a smartphone can mimic an inexpensive
field microscope.

Smartphone apps have been developed and are being
tested. A regional geo-referenced database capable of
providing "vulnerability assessment" of a waterbody
based on hydro geomorphic characteristics and land
use patterns in the watershed is also being tested.
Upon project completion, the workgroup will evaluate
their progress,  refine the approach, make
recommendations, and develop a monitoring program.
              Capability to analyze
                 water samples
for over
                         EPA and other
              standardized methods
EPA 910-R-15-002

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                                                                                      FY2014 Annual Report

          Addressing Climate Change and Improving Air Quality
   Protect and improve the air so it is healthy to breathe and risks to human health
       and the environment are reduced. Reduce greenhouse gas intensity by
   enhancing partnerships with businesses and other sectors and common-sense
                              regulatory initiatives.
 Regional Laboratories actively support the
 objectives of the Agency's air goals through a
 variety of activities. These activities include:

   •  technical support and training

   •  air monitoring and air monitoring quality
      assurance

   •  laboratory support for various air toxics
      assessments
   •  laboratory support for numerous other local
      projects that address specific community risks
      and method development.
Sorbent Tube Analysis of Routine Air Samples
Provide Cost-Effective Alternative

Typically, air samples for volatile organics are collected
in Summa™ canisters following Method TO-15 from the
EPA Compendium of Methods for the Determination of
Toxic Organic Compounds in Ambient Air.  Region 7
developed an enhanced method using sorbent tubes
similar to  Method TO-17. A three-phased sorbent tube
that collects air samples of low to moderate humidity
was field-tested at three different sites. Results were
comparable to Method TO-15 and met Method TO-17
requirements.  Future method development includes
validating a  single-phase sorbent tube that will also
produce good results in  high humidity.
           (Q) Regional Laboratories

        have the capability to analyze for
           Organic Compounds in Air
Vapor Intrusion Study in West Virginia

Vapor intrusion occurs when volatile chemicals migrate
from contaminated groundwater or soils into an
overlying building in ways similar to that of radon gas
seeping into homes. When remediating a contaminated
site, analysis of indoor air may be required to assess
presence of vapor intrusion.  Typically,  EPA Method
TO-15 using air canisters is employed to measure level
of possible contamination.

In 2014, an extensive vapor intrusion sampling event
was conducted at a West Virginia remedial site to
determine if a new vapor plume emanated from an
underlying  tetrachloroethylene (PCE) plume. The study
was designed to assess impacts to  local residents living
above the plume and Region 3 Laboratory provided air
analysis on these samples.
Pictured above is an air canister used for volatile
organic analysis  of air samples.
                                                                                        EPA 910-R-15-002

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                                                                                              FY2014 Annual Report
                    Addressing Climate Change and Improving Air Quality
       PM 2.5 Performance Evaluation Program (PEP)

       The goal of the PEP is to evaluate total
       measurement system bias of the particulate
       matter (PM) 2.5 monitoring network. The
       laboratory component of the program includes
       PM filter handling, inspection, equilibration, and
       weighing; data entry, validation, management,
       and distribution to client regions; and filter
       archival and data submittal to the Air Quality
       System (AQS). The PM filter weighing laboratory
       is located at Region 4.  Other Regional
       Laboratories also provided support for PEP
       through performance evaluation audits, quality
I       assurance collocations, and PEP audits.
       Regional Laboratory staff provided training
       classes for the PM 2.5 PEP program.
    Ambient Air Audits at A/Core Stations

    NCore is a national multi-pollutant network that
    integrates several advanced measurement systems for
    particles, pollutant gases, and meteorology.  NCore air
    monitoring sites operate trace-level instruments that are
    difficult to audit with conventional through-the-probe air
    monitoring equipment.

    Region 2 developed a standard operating procedure
    (SOP), used nationally, for conducting these audits, and
    has identified inaccuracies and potential sources of
    error. Currently, the region is assessing the scope and
    magnitude of errors/inaccuracies in existing procedures
    and methods, and is testing alternative calibration and/
    or analytical strategies for NCore audits.
                          PM 2.5 audits
                 conducted in FY2014
Air Quality Monitoring Requires Extensive Analysis

In Pennsylvania, a proposed natural gas production
project was identified to measure baseline air quality.
The proposed plan outlined locations to conduct
ambient air sampling for volatile organic compounds
(VOCs). The monitoring project was part of the State
and Local Agency Monitoring Stations (SLAMS), which
consists of a network of monitoring stations.  Size and
distribution is determined by the needs of state and
local air pollution control agencies to meet their
respective state implementation plan (SIP)
requirements. The primary purpose of air monitoring is
to determine if concentrations of certain VOCs  can be
shown to statistically correlate to gas exploration and
production activities. Air samples were collected for a
period of up to 18 months and will continue the following
year after gas exploration begins.  Sampling  began in
February 2014 and analysis was conducted by the
Region 3 Laboratory using EPA Method TO-15.
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                                                                                      FY2014 Annual Report
                 Taking Action on Toxics and Chemical Safety
     Keeping communities safe and healthy by reducing risks associated with exposure to
      chemicals in commerce, indoor and outdoor environments, and products and food.
  The Comprehensive Environmental Response,
  Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA), or
  Superfund, and the Resource Conservation and
  Recovery Act (RCRA) provide the legal basis for
  EPA's efforts to preserve and restore land using
  the most effective waste management and cleanup
  methods available.  By supporting these programs,
  the Regional Laboratories:

   •  Analyze hazardous and non-hazardous waste

   •  Implement applied research and method
      development to meet evolving analytical
      needs of Superfund and RCRA programs

   •  Ensure vigilant readiness for emergency
      response to environmental disasters,
      hazardous materials releases, time-critical
      removals, and inland  oil spills.
Perfluorinated Chemicals fPFCs) Method Evaluated
for Wastewater and Solid Matrices

PFCs are an ongoing concern for EPA. Products
manufactured and treated with PFCs include clothing,
fabrics, surface treatments, cleansers, and cookware,
which enter the environment via down-the-drain
disposal.  Other PFC products are directly discharged
into the environment from fire-fighting foams and
surface treatments.  Region 5 Laboratory participated in
preliminary semi-continuous activated sludge (SCAS)
experiments and evaluated other PFC tests.  An
analytical method to measure PFCs in wastewater and
solid  matrices was developed and  accepted by the
American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM),
analyzing PFCs for SCAS study by an approved
method.
Trichloroethvlene (TCE) Impacts Investigated in
Meramec Caverns

The topography of southeastern Missouri is
characterized by numerous caves, sinkholes, fissures,
and underground streams.  Meramec Caverns is one of
the largest cave systems in Missouri. Unfortunately, it is
impacted by a subsurface plume of TCE that originates
from a site approximately 5 miles away.

Concerns were raised about TCE exposures to visitors
and employees touring the commercialized portion of
Meramec Caverns and the ecological health of cave-
dwelling fauna.

Using Region 7 mobile laboratory, on-site TCE
concentrations in both commercialized and native
portions of Meramec Caverns were analyzed by gas
chromatography/mass spectrometry (GC/MS) on
samples of cave air using portable bag samplers.  The
data generated characterized distribution,
concentration, and ventilation of TCE throughout the
cave complex. This project is continuing into FY2015.
                  )f Regional Laboratory
      analyses support Superfund program
                                                                                        EPA 910-R-15-002

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                                                                                             FY2014 Annual Report
                          Taking Action on Toxics and Chemical Safety
     Ongoing Monitoring at Wvckoff/Eagle Harbor
     Superfund Site

     The Wyckoff/Eagle Harbor Superfund site is located on
     the east side of Bainbridge Island in Central Puget
     Sound, Washington. The  East Harbor Operable Unit
     (OU) 01 consists of more than 70 acres of intertidal and
     subtidal habitats contaminated by releases  of creosote
     and other wood-treating chemicals from a now defunct
     wood-treating plant. The releases contaminated bottom
     sediments of Eagle Harbor with PAHs. In 1994-1995,
     EPA capped more than 50 acres of the harbor, placing
     a 3-foot thick layer of clean dredged sand on top of the
     contaminated sediments.  Creosote seeps still occur on
     the beaches.  To ensure the capped areas of the site
     continue to protect  human health and  the environment,
     EPA monitors contaminant concentrations in sediments,
     pore-water, and clam tissue collected  from the beaches.
     Eagle Harbor is within the Suquamish tribe  fishing area.
     The Suquamish tribe retains the right to harvest fish and
     marine invertebrates and have their fishery  resource
     habitat areas protected.

     Region 10 Laboratory provided analytical support for
     treatment plant and monitoring events for more than 20
     years.  In 2014 about 20 clam composite samples were
     collected as part of a monitoring event.  Region 10
     developed a specialized method for preparing clam
     tissues for analysis called  QuEChERS (Quick, Easy,
     Cheap, Effective, Rugged, Safe). Lower sensitivity was
     obtained using GC/MS/secondary ion  mass
     spectrometry (SIMS). Results were used to determine if
     shellfish are suitable for harvest.

     Response to Chemical Spill

     A chemical spill occurred on an Ohio River tributary,
     which lead to a Superfund emergency response. The
     On-Scene Coordinator (OSC) in charge of operations
     requested Region 5 Laboratory assistance with analysis
     of the chemical in the water. The chemical,
     (Tri-n-butyl)-n-tetradecylphosphoniumchloride,
     abbreviated TTPC, was detectable by liquid
     chromatography/mass spectrometry (LC/MS). A
     method was quickly developed and put to use within a
     month of the spill. Over 100 water samples have been
     analyzed to date to aid in the response effort.
     Over l2)nl
             if
  R
                    analyses conducted by
egional Laboratories for Emergency Response
                 activities
Spill Response in West Virginia

In January 2014, the chemical
4-methylcyclohexanemethanol (MCHM) spilled in the
Elk River in Charleston, West Virginia. The spilled
chemical, used in coal preparation and processing,
caused a drinking water advisory affecting
approximately 300,000 people in nine counties.  Other
chemicals, such as polyglycol ethers (PPH), were later
identified as part of the release.

Region 3 Laboratory identified analytical techniques for
MCHM and PPH in water, striving to meet health
advisory levels to ensure the reliability of analytical
methods used by public utilities and other organizations.
Both GC/MS and high performance liquid
chromatography/ultraviolet spectroscopy (HPLC/UV)
were used along with other techniques to  fully
characterize the spilled material.

Quick Analysis and Delivery of Results for
Ringwood Mines Superfund Site Removal Response

Region 2 Laboratory provided analytical support to the
Ringwood Mines Superfund Site.  The site was re-
opened due to additional contamination found in
residential areas originally deemed safe.  The laboratory
analyzed over 600 soil samples over a 6-month period,
primarily for lead, in support of removal program
activities at key residences. The laboratory provided
validated results within 20 to 36 hours of each sample
delivery.
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                                                                                         FY2014 Annual Report
    Making a Visible Difference  in Communities across the Country
        community-based activities to provide seamless assistance to communities, both urban
    and rural, while maximizing efficiency and results. Expand support of community efforts to
    build healthy, sustainable, green neighborhoods and reduce and prevent harmful exposures
            and health risks to children and underserved, overburdened communities.
  Environmental and public health impacts affect
  people most significantly where they live - at the
  community level.  EPA is focused on providing
  better support to communities, especially in
  environmentally-overburdened, underserved, and
  economically-distressed areas where the needs are
  greatest.

  Regional Laboratories coordinate technical
  assistance and other resources across EPA
  Programs; with states, tribes, and local
  governments; and with other federal agencies to
  support communities as they pursue environmental
  improvements that enhance economic opportunity
  and quality of life.
Air Sampling and Analysis from Southeast Chicago

In response to air quality concerns in the Upper
Midwest, Region 5 Laboratory actively monitored
outdoor air pollutants and toxins.  In investigating
petroleum coke (petcoke) piles, the source of coal-like
dust particles in the air, Region 5 scientists analyzed
filters and collected soil and wipe samples from
residences in southeast Chicago to determine whether
air quality was impacting the health of homes.  Petcoke
piles have been a major concern in both Detroit and
Chicago due to their recent storage in both cities.
Samples were taken directly from the petcoke piles,
analyzed, and compared with those taken from
residential locations. The comparisons indicated a
direct correlation to materials stored on-site at the
refineries suggesting the piles were the source of
contamination found in the residences.  The findings
resulted in capping  and eventual removal of petcoke
material from outside storage areas.  This victory for
human health is expected to protect many individuals
from the impacts of poor air quality.
Dye Study near Bridgeport, Connecticut

Region 1 Laboratory scientists conducted two dye
dilution studies on the Lower Housatonic River in
Connecticut over a 2-week period in May 2014.  EPA
assisted in designing and conducting a dye study for the
Stratford Water Pollution Control Facility and a second
study at the Milford Housatonic Wastewater Treatment
Plant, with discharges into the Housatonic River.  Data
have been used to help Connecticut and the U.S. Food
and Drug Administration (FDA) to determine the extent
to which treatment plants impact the Housatonic River
and areas in the Long Island Sound.  The study has
also helped evaluate existing shellfish closure areas
and determine whether they need to be modified.

The Region 1  team designed the monitoring portion of
the study and  conducted nearfield tracking of dye
concentrations around the outfalls. EPA staff also
handled boat operations and tracked real-time
concentrations of dye at fixed stations in transects
throughout the estuary and into Long Island Sound.

These studies involved long days of tracking dye on
EPA boats to coincide with tides requiring staff to be on
location in Connecticut for 2 weeks. The complexity of
this study was due to the logistics of injecting dye at two
plants, the vast extent of the study area, rough seas at
times, and substantial media presence.
                                                                                           EPA 910-R-15-002

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                                                                                          FY2014 Annual Report
             Making a Visible Difference in Communities across the Country
       Achieving Lower Detection Limits of Pesticides
        in Impaired Waters near City of Birmingham

       The city of Birmingham, Alabama and the Alabama
       Department of Environmental Management
       (ADEM) sought to remove Village Creek from the
       State's list of impaired waters. In accordance with
       Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act, two
       sections of Village Creek have previously been
       identified as impaired due to the presence of the
       legacy pesticide dieldrin, which has been banned
       since 1987. Since the existing detection limit was
       higher than the human health criteria for dieldrin,
       Region 4 Laboratory improved the method by
       using a smaller extraction volume yielding a 100-
       fold decrease in detection limit. Hence, future
       sample results met the lower human health criteria
       and will determine potential delisting of the two
       sections of Village Creek.

                      Over

       samples analyzed in FY2014 supporting EPA's
         Brownfields Program, which is designed to
          empower states, communities, and other
      stakeholders to redevelop abandoned industrial
          and commercial properties with potential
                     contamination.
                                                        Lead in Schools Initiative

                                                        Several Regional Laboratories assisted Region 2 with
                                                        the analysis of water samples from multiple schools and
                                                        daycare centers for the Lead-in-Schools Initiative.
                                                        Inductively-coupled plasma/mass spectrometry (ICP/
                                                        MS) was used for sample analysis. Regions
                                                        participating included Region 2, Region 5, Region 6,
                                                        Region 7, Region 9, and Region 10.
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                                                                                         FY2014 Annual Report
      Launching a New Era  of State, Tribal, and Local Partnerships
      Strengthen partnerships with states, tribes, local governments, and global communities
   central to the success of the national environmental protection program through consultation,
                          collaboration, and shared accountability.
  By providing support at the regional level,
  opportunities abound to work in concert with
  states, tribes, and local entities in providing
  technical support. Types of activities where
  Regional Laboratories become involved include:

   •  Analytical support to states or tribes

   •  Assisting communities and volunteer monitoring
      groups with implementation of Citizen Science

   •  Providing training and technical support,
      including training in preparation of QAPPs.
River and Stream Assessment for Wisconsin

Region 5 provided assistance to the State of Wisconsin
during the statewide river and stream sediment
assessment. Region 5 Laboratory analyzed over 100
sediment samples for 10 different chemical  tests,
including both inorganic and organic analyses over a
3-year period. This effort was initiated to complete an
assessment of the health of rivers and streams
throughout the state.

Training for New England Tribes

Region 1 Laboratory organized and hosted  a 2-day
statistics training course in 2014 for about 20 New
England environmental tribal staff. The course focused
on the use of statistics for analyzing water quality data,
with a focus on using "R," an open-source statistical
program.
Citizen Science becomes Reality

One of Region 2 program goals is to raise the visibility
level of citizen science in the region, support the
formation of citizen science groups, and provide
technical guidance and assistance to improve data
quality of monitoring efforts.  The citizen science pilot
project in the New York-New Jersey Harbor serves as a
blueprint for future citizen science efforts, which
connected EPA  scientists with citizens trained to collect
and analyze water quality data, increasing knowledge
about pathogen  contamination of the harbor. Region 2
helped develop a "tool kit" for water quality monitoring.
The components of the "tool  kit" include:

  1) QAPP template for planning monitoring projects
  2) Field and laboratory datasheets to record
    observations/results and method information
  3) SOPs for common water quality measurements
  4) YouTube videos  on sample collection procedures
  5) Equipment loan program to provide critical
    monitoring  equipment for collecting environmental
    data.

Application  and  use of the region's citizen science "tool
kit" was successfully tested during the pilot by four
citizen science groups. The tools will be refined and
made available on a formal equipment loan program in
FY2015 for future citizen science groups, with an
emphasis on Environmental Justice areas.
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                                                                                            FY2014 Annual Report
                 Embracing EPA as a High-Performing Organization
          Maintain and attract EPA's diverse and engaged workforce of the future with a more
         collaborative work environment. Modernize our business practices, taking advantage of
         new tools and technologies, and improve the way we work as a high-performing Agency.

       One of the most important regional and state
       laboratory partnerships is sharing unique expertise,
       when needed.  In 2014, Regional Laboratories
       supported various projects. Laboratories relied on
       the expertise of other Regional Laboratories with
       unique capability/capacity.

       Collaboration with the Office of Research and
       Development (ORD) provided opportunities for
       scientists to expand their knowledge and skills
       through the Regional Research and Partnership
       Program.
Increased Collaboration Tools

Region 1 Laboratory developed a Regional Monitoring
Network (RMN) to determine the condition of, and
changes in, high-quality reference streams in New York
and New England to climate change and other stressors
on water temperature, flow, and macroinvertebrate
communities.  RMN is being duplicated at  other EPA
regions in the northeast, in close collaboration with
other agencies and groups collecting similar data.
Centralized data repositories and protocols are in
development, through efforts of the U.S. Geological
Survey (USGS), EPA, and others (for example:
htto://wim. usqs. gov/NorEaSTA.
    Cost Savings for Air Sampling

    Using sorbent tubes, Region 7 scientists saved
    tremendous time and expense. Historically, air samples
    were collected in Summa™ canisters and followed a
    procedure delineated in the Compendium of Methods
    for the Determination of Toxic Organic Compounds in
    Ambient Air,  Method TO-15. The Summa™ canisters
    were, and are currently, in limited supply due to high
    costs, costing thousands of dollars per canister. To
    purchase the canisters and manage rotating inventory
    advance planning is required.

    Region 7 developed a three-phased sorbent tube that
    realizes significant savings since the cost of tubes are
    significantly lower than canisters and tubes can  be
    reused 100 times.  Shipping costs for the tubes are also
    much lower.
 Laboratory Technical Information Group (LTIG):
 Enhancing Technical Knowledge of Laboratory
                   Scientists

 In May 2014, LTIG held their 16th Annual
 Conference for laboratory scientists. LTIG,
 organized in 1998, invites laboratory scientists
 from all EPA Laboratories, communicating
 regularly through monthly conference calls and
 conducting annual conferences. LTIG's goal is to
 create a forum for technical discussion where
 chemists from all 10 Regional Laboratories and
 other EPA offices can communicate and
 exchange ideas on analytical procedures and
 problems.
      'J  Regional Scientists worked with ORD under
       the Regional Research Partnership Program
       (R2P2) - a program to enhance collaboration
       and share knowledge  between ORD and the
                        Regions
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                                                                                         FY2014 Annual Report
                  Embracing EPA as a High-Performing Organization
Reduce Solvent Use by Testing New Technology

Region 7 chemists collaborated with multiple partners to
provide analytical data on two different solid-phase
extraction (SPE) products in response to recent Clean
Water Methods update.

Chemists have been working a new sorbent-coated stir
bar technology (Twister) in the analysis of urban stream
water monitoring for four years. A method for semi-
                           volatile analytes, which
                           included personal care
                           products and pesticides,
                           was developed and
                           results presented.
                           Chemists also worked
                           with the Office of Water
                           providing comments on
                           method revisions for EPA
                           Methods 608, 624, and
                           625 resulting in the final
                           publication, which closed
                           May 2015.

Region 7 chemists began working with the Independent
Laboratories Institute (III) of the American Council of
Independent Laboratories (ACIL) and  meeting with
Horizon Technologies to test the SPE technology with
Horizon equipment.  Ill was tasked with coordinating
large projects to benefit all laboratories and vendors.
The first major project, a multi-laboratory study, was
determined the feasibility of using SPE techniques using
EPA water methods with the Office of Water as the
ultimate customer, designed to produce the data quality
required by alternate test procedures. Vendors had to
identify at least three
laboratories,
including  one of their
own, to participate in
this study, which
included 25
laboratories from
industry, government,
and academia.
Region 7 chemists participated in two phases of the
project, using stir bar technology and Horizon SPE
products. Electronic results were provided to an
anonymous sample vendor who consolidated the data
and performed statistical analysis. The results of the
study proved that the SPE technique was a viable
candidate to replace the traditional separatory funnel
extraction.

The ultimate benefit to the Agency is the flexibility to use
newer technology that significantly reduces the  use of
hazardous solvents and the resulting hazardous waste.
Once the method revisions are approved, new
extraction methods will be allowed for enforcement of
the CWA with an eye on green chemistry.
     Method Enhancement or Development
                   Projects
             completed in FY2014
                                                                                           EPA 910-R-15-002

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                                                                                               FY2014 Annual Report
                      Embracing EPA as a High-Performing Organizatio
           Regional Laboratories Support ORD —
                 Hydraulic Fracturing Study

       Regional Laboratories coordinated with EPA's
       ORD on a 2-year research project directed by U.S.
       Congress to study the relationship between
       hydraulic fracturing and drinking water resources.

       Natural gas plays a key role in the future of our
       nation's clean energy. Recent advances in drilling
       technologies—including horizontal drilling and
       hydraulic fracturing—have made vast reserves of
       natural gas economically recoverable in the U.S.
       Responsible development of America's oil and gas
       resources offers important economic, energy,
       security and environmental benefits.


       Hydraulic fracturing is a well-stimulation technique
       used to maximize production of oil and natural gas
       in unconventional reservoirs, such as shale, coal
       beds, and tight sands.  During hydraulic fracturing,
       specially-engineered fluids containing chemical
       additives are pumped under high pressure into the
       well to create and hold open fractures in the
       formation.  These fractures increase the exposed
       surface area of the rock in the formation and
       stimulate the flow of natural gas or oil to the
       wellbore. The use of hydraulic fracturing concerns
       have increased due to  potential environmental and
       potential risks to drinking water.
       Region 3 and Region 7 Laboratories provided
       chemical analysis and field support forsemi-
       volatiles, diesel-range organics, gasoline-range
       organics, glycols and other unknown
       identifications.
Mercury at Trask Forest

Land use is a critical parameter controlling
environmental mercury (Hg) cycling.  Factors that
influence the mobility (for example, water flow, sediment
mobilization), bioavailability of inorganic mercury
(particulate-versus-filtered fractions), and other
variables associated with methyl mercury production
(for example, sulfate, organic carbon) are distinctly
associated with numerous land-use practices that may
allow management actions to influence bioaccumulation
in aquatic habitats. Methylmercury (MeHg), which is
produced by anoxic bacteria, primarily sulfate-reducing
bacteria (SRB), is the more toxic and bioaccumulative
form of Hg. Timber harvesting is a widespread land-use
activity in the Pacific Northwest (PNW). There are
approximately 60,000 square miles of harvestable
forestland in PNW, which accounts for nearly 25 percent
of the region's total land area. Thus, Hg  distribution,
cycling, and bioaccumulation in PNW may be strongly
influenced by the magnitude and scale of regional
timber activities.

Region 10 has been collaborating with USGS since
2013 to study the effects of logging practices on
mercury processing and transport in Oregon's Trask
River watershed. Region 10 Laboratory supported the
research with MeHg and ultra-low-level Hg analyses
(519 analyses total) of surface waters collected to study
the effects of different harvesting techniques, such as
clearcutting and selective harvesting. The analyses
were challenging due to complexities of the MeHg
method and the need to maintain a pristine laboratory
environment to accurately measure to very low levels in
samples. One preliminary conclusion is that dissolved
mercury transports out of watersheds that were clear-
cut is significantly greater than watersheds that have not
been harvested.  The remaining analysis is to evaluate
changes in mercury loading from the watersheds. Once
this work is complete, the study will be published in a
peer-reviewed journal by USGS and EPA.
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                                                                                        FY2014 Annual Report
                 Embracing EPA as a High-Performing Organization
Preserving Land at Longhorn Army Ammunitions
Site

To assist with the analysis of related samples at the
Longhorn Army Ammunitions site, Region 6 Laboratory
developed a method for analyzing all six dinitrotoluene
(DNT) isomers. These chemicals were suspected to be
breakdown products from munitions stored on base. An
analytical procedure using a gas chromatograph-triple
quadrupole mass spectrometer (GC/MS/MS) was
developed to successfully validate extractions down to
20 parts per trillion.

Development of Dissolved Gases or Light
Hydrocarbon Method

Region 6 coordinated a three-laboratory round robin
method and analysis study for light hydrocarbons
(LHCs) in water by gas chromatography/flame ionization
detector (GC/FID).  Region 6 Laboratory, an instrument
vendor, and a state laboratory exchanged samples and
coordinated instrument conditions over a 1-week
period. The results were statistically analyzed for
precision and accuracy parameters. Currently, no
official EPA method for this analysis; however,
Regions 5, 6, and the Office of Solid Waste and
Emergency Response (OSWER)/Office of Resource
Conservation and Recovery (ORCR) have a pending
proposal to further develop this effort into an official
EPA method.
New Method to Measure Lower Levels of Lead in
Soils

The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) observed
continued health effects in people due to lead in their
blood even though presence of lead at historical
remediation sites were well below the action levels
needed to protect human health. Socioeconomically
disadvantaged  children are particularly susceptible to
health effects due to the persistence of lead bound to
small particulate matter in their environment and  the
tendency for children to put "dirty" hands to their  mouth.
Therefore, EPA is reevaluating the action level for lead
in soils.  In anticipation of the need to detect lead in
soils at lower concentrations, Region 4 Laboratory is
developing a new method for preparing soil samples.
The new method focuses on soils most likely to affect
at-risk human subjects. This method comprises  sieving
the raw sample to a particular particle size and
extracting the lead using the human amino acid,  glycine,
to mimic effects of digestion. Historical studies will be
repeated with the new methodology to evaluate site
compliance with the new action level for lead.
                                                           Field Analyses conducted in 2014
                                                               Almost double from 2013
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                                                                                             FY2014 Annual Report
                           Working toward a Sustainable Future
          Vance sustainable environmental outcomes and optimize economic and social outcomes
                   through Agency decisions and actions, which include expanding
            conversation on environmentalism and engaging a broad range of stakeholders.

       Regional Laboratories continue to explore
       opportunities to reduce chemical usage or improve
       processes.


    Reducing Solvents for EPA Methods 608 and 625

    Region 7 chemists developed several solid-phase
    extraction methods that reduce solvent usage while
    maintaining or improving detection limits. In FY2014,
    extensive method development was culminated as a
    partnership with two  different vendors and the ACIL.
    Region 7 was one of 25 laboratories participating in a
    two-phase study, which provided technical response to
    the comment period  for the Code of Federal
    Regulations (CFR) update of EPA Methods 608
    and 625.
    Supporting Enforcement Actions related to Ozone-
    Depleting Compounds

    Many people often take for granted the chemical safety
    of their home appliances.  Particularly, chemicals that
    may come in contact with food or the air we breathe.
    This year, the Criminal Investigation Division (CID)
    requested Region 6 Laboratory to assist in an air
    refrigerant purity investigation, by analyzing samples of
    pressure cylinders or containers used to hold gases at a
    pressure greater than that of the atmosphere,
    containing an air conditioning refrigerant.
R-22, a non-flammable, ozone-depleting compound,
was listed as the main refrigerant; however, other
chemicals are suspected to be present in these
cylinders.

R-22 is currently being phased out in products used for
domestic consumption under the Montreal Protocol
Provisions of the Clean Air Act (CAA). The limited
remaining amounts of R-22 have resulted in
replacement refrigerants being sold at lower costs.
However, these substitutes may be mixtures containing
other flammable and dangerous compounds, such as
propane and butane mixtures that can damage the
refrigerator's air conditioning system.  Explosions and
fires  have been reported when such alternative
refrigerants  are used, making them extremely
dangerous to both animals and humans.

Region 6 Laboratory developed a new technique for
transferring  the cylinder contents to the instrument. As
suspected, none of the samples analyzed contained
R-22 above the reporting limit.  However, propane, a
hydrocarbon and flammable refrigerant was discovered.
Hydrocarbon refrigerants pose a particular hazard,
especially when they are stored in containers that are
not properly labeled.  Analytical support provided by
Region 6 Laboratory helped ensure the container
contents are used with the necessary precautions; thus,
reducing the potential of injury to those that use the
refrigerant cylinders.
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                                                            FY2014 Annual Report
   Section III — FY2014 Laboratory Accomplishment Results Summary
  &EPA
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
EPA 910-R-15-002

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                                                                                         FY2014 Annual Report
          FY2014 Laboratory Accomplishment Results Summary
This section summarizes a
number of the common support
services provided by the RLN.

Because of the unique nature of
the support provided by Regional
Laboratories, the ideal Regional
Laboratory scientist is one part
research scientist and one part
production scientist.  Regional
Laboratory scientists are capable
of developing methods (often
with short lead times), focusing
on quality control, and operating
under demanding delivery
schedules.

Regional Laboratory staff
support diverse and challenging
requests. During FY2014, RLN
supported more than 143,000
analyses. The distribution of
work by the RLN is shown in
Figures 1 and 2. These totals
exclude Quality Control (QC)
samples, which add an
additional 20%.
Figure 1. Analytical Support to EPA Programs in FY2014
          (143,234 Total Analyses)
           Emergency Response
               5.4%.
        Figure 2. FY2014 U.S. EPA Regional Laboratories Analyses Provided by Program
                          (143,234 Total Analyses)
90000
     82428
                  7764    7722
                              1638    1613
                                                706     71     52

                      In keeping with prior years,
                      Superfund program continues to be
                      the largest volume requestor of
                      analytical services (57.5%),
                      followed by Water Programs
                      (28.2%).  Emergency Response
                      program support continues to be
                      significant at 5.4%, with RLN
                      laboratories analyzing 7,722
                      samples in  conjunction with time-
                      critical responses to  environmental
                      disasters, hazardous materials
                      releases, priority contaminant
                      removals, and other  threats to
                      human health and/or the
                      environment, which aided in timely
                      and cost-effective decision-making
                      in the field.  All 10  Regional
                      Laboratories augmented the
                      National Enforcement Investigations
                      Center's (NEIC's) capacity in
                      support of important  criminal cases,
                      analyzing 424 criminal samples
                      during the year.
                                                                                           EPA 910-R-15-002

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                                                                                      FY2014 Annual Report
             FY2014 Laboratory Accomplishment Results Summary
    Figure 3 summarizes the number of analytical projects supported by RLN according to EPA program element.
    Collectively, RLN supported 1,474 projects.
Figures. Projects/Sites Supported by Regional Laboratory Data FY2014 by Program Element
(1 ,474 Total Sites/Projects Supported)

Water- Program Implementation (REMAP, TMDLF TOXNET, etc.) ^^^^_
Water- Enforcement 	
Water - Drinking Water Compliance and Emergencies 	 J
1 160
J 115
92
Superfund -Removal 	 ( 72
Other »— fl 48
Superfund -Emergency Response j 37
Air- Program Implementation (monitoring, permits, etc.) .j) 32
Criminal Investigation _i 24
RCRA - Enforcement Lj 18
RCRA- Corrective Action J 15
LUST J 13
TSCA- Remedial J 11
Brownfields J 10
TSCA - Enforcement | 5
Pesticides | 4
Air -Enforcement 2




























































592























    A significant amount of
    work supported during the
    year required methods be
    developed specifically to
    address the unique needs
    of a particular region
    (Figure 4).  Often,
    methods developed by a
    region to address a local
    environmental challenge
    are mobilized in other
    regions as their benefit is
    realized and/or as the
    need arises.
                                         Figure 4. Method Development Project Support to EPA Programs in FY2014
                                                          (125 Methods)
eslicide'
 1.6%
EPA 910-R-15-002

-------

-------
                                                            FY2014 Annual Report

 Section IV — Regional Laboratories Capabilities Tables — FY2014
&EPA
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency

-------
                                                               FY2014 Annual Report
ll
Regional Laboratories Core Capabilities — FY2014
I. Chemistry
Analyte/Group Name
Sample Media
Analytical Technique
INORGANIC CHEMISTRY
Acidity
Alkalinity
Asbestos
Anions
Chromium, Hexavalent (Cr+6)
Cyanide, Amenable
Cyanide, Total
Fluoride
Hardness
Mercury, Total
Mercury (TCLP)
Metals, Total
Metals (TCLP)
Metals, Total
Metals (TCLP)
Metals, Total
Metals (TCLP)
Nitrogen (Ammonia)
Water
Water
Solids/Bulk material
Soil/Sediment
Water
Water
Water
Soil/Sediment
Water
Soil/Sediment
Water
Soil/Sediment
Water
Soil/Sediment
Waste
Water
Water
Water
Water
Water
Water
Water
Soil/Sediment
Soil/Sediment
Tissue (fish &/or plant)
Tissue (fish &/or plant)
Waste (oil, drum, etc.)
Waste (oil, drum, etc.)
Soil/Waste (oil, drum,
etc.)
Soil/Waste (oil, drum,
etc.)
Water
Soil/Sediment
Tissue (fish &/or plant)
Waste (oil, drum, etc.)
Soil/Waste (oil, drum,
etc.)
Water
Soil/Sediment
Tissue (fish &/or plant)
Waste (oil, drum, etc.)
Soil/Waste (oil, drum,
etc.)
Water
Soil/Sediment
Tissue (fish &/or plant)
Waste (oil, drum, etc.)
Soil/Waste (oil, drum,
etc.)
Water
Soil/Sediment
Water
Titrimetric
Titrimetric
PLM
PLM
1C
Titrimetric
Colorimetric
Colorimetric
1C
1C
Colorimetric
Colorimetric
Colorimetric
Colorimetric
Colorimetric
ISE
1C
Colorimetric
Titrimetric
ICP/Calculation
CVAA
Direct Hg Analysis
CVAA
Direct Hg Analysis
CVAA
Direct Hg Analysis
CVAA
Direct Hg Analysis
CVAA
Direct Hg Analysis
ICP/AES
ICP/AES
ICP/AES
ICP/AES
ICP/AES
GFAA
GFAA
GFAA
GFAA
GFAA
ICP/MS
ICP/MS
ICP/MS
ICP/MS
ICP/MS
Colorimetric
Colorimetric
Electrode
Regional Capability
1

X
X
X
X





X
X
X
X
X
X
X


X
X

X
X
X
X
X



X
X
X
X

X
X
X
X

X
X






2
X
X


X
X
X
X


X
X
X
X
X
X
X

X
X
X

X

X

X

X

X
X
X
X
X





X
X
X


X

X
3
X
X


X
X


X
X


X
X
X

X

X
X
X

X

X

X

X

X
X
X
X
X





X
X
X
X

X
X

4
X
X


X

X
X
X

X
X
X
X
X
X
X


X
X

X

X

X

X

X
X
X
X
X





X
X
X
X
X
X
X

5
X
X


X



X
X
X

X
X
X
X
X


X
X

X
X


X

X
X
X
X

X
X





X
X



X
X

6

X


X

X

X

X
X
X
X
X

X

X
X
X

X

X
X
X

X

X
X

X
X





X
X

X
X
X


7
X
X
X
X
X

X

X

X
X
X
X

X
X


X

X

X

X

X

X
X
X
X
X
X





X
X
X
X
X
X


8
X
X
X
X
X





X
X
X
X
X

X


X
X

X

X

X

X

X
X
X
X
X





X
X
X
X
X
X


9

X


X



X

X

X



X

X
X
X

X
X
X
X
X

X

X
X
X
X
X





X

X


X


10

X
X
X
X

X
X


X
X
X
X
X

X


X
X

X

X
X
X

X

X
X
X
X
X





X
X
X


X



-------
                                                               FY2014 Annual Report
            Regional Laboratories Core Capabilities — FY2014
I. Chemistry
Analyte/Group Name
Sample Media
Analytical Technique
INORGANIC CHEMISTRY
Nitrogen (NO3 &/or NO2)
Nitrogen, Total Kjeldahl
Perchlorate
Phosphorus, Ortho
Phosphorus, Total
Sulfate
Sulfide
Water
Soil
Water
Soil
Water
Soil
Water
Soil
Water
Water, Soil/Sediment
Water
Water
Water
Water
Soil
Water
Soil
Water
Soil
Water
Soil
Water
Water
Colorimetric
Colorimetric
1C
1C
Colorimetric
Colorimetric
1C
1C
1C with LC/MS confirmation
LC/MS
LC/MS/MS
Colorimetric
1C
Colorimetric
Colorimetric
1C
1C
Turbidimetric
Turbidimetric
Colorimetric
Colorimetric
1C, Turbidimetric
Titrimetric
Regional Capability
1


X
X






X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X




2
X

X

X






X
X
X

X

X

X


X
3
X

X
X
X
X


X
X


X
X
X
X
X






4
X
X
X
X
X
X





X
X
X
X
X
X






5
X
X
X
X
X
X
X

X



X
X
X
X
X






6
X



X
X




X
X

X

X





X

7
X
X
X
X
X
X





X
X
X

X
X
X

X



8
X

X







X
X
X
X

X
X






9
X

X
X
X

X
X


X

X
X

X
X





X
10
X
X
X
X
X



X
X

X
X
X
X
X







ORGANIC CHEMISTRY
BNA
BNA (TCLP)
BNA (TPH)
BOD
COD
EDB & DBCP
Herbicides
Herbicides (TCLP)
Oil & Grease
Pesticides/PCBs
Pesticides (TCLP)
Phenolics
Water
Soil/Sediment
Waste (oil, drum, etc.)
Tissue (fish &/or plant)
Solid/Waste
Water
Soil/Sediment
Water
Water
Water
Water
Water
Soil/Sediment
Waste (oil, drum, etc.)
Tissue (fish &/or plant)
Solid/Waste
Solid/Waste
Water
Soil/Sediment
Water
Soil/Sediment
Waste (oil, drum, etc.)
Tissue (fish &/or plant)
Solid/Waste
Water
Soil/Sediment
GC/MS
GC/MS
GC/MS
GC/MS
GC/MS
GC/MS or GC
GC/MS or GC
Membrane Electrode
Photometric
Colorimetric
GC/ECD
GC/ECD; GC/NPD
GC/ECD; GC/NPD
GC/ECD; GC/NPD
GC/ECD; GC/NPD
GC/ECD
HPLC/UV Detection
Gravimetric
Gravimetric
GC/ECD
GC/ECD
GC/ECD
GC/ECD
GC/ECD
Colorimetric
Colorimetric
X
X
X







X








X
X
X
X



X
X
X

X


X

X







X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X

X
X
X

X


X
X
X






X
X

X
X
X

X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X


X
X



X

X

X
X
X
X
X


X
X
X

X
X
X
X

X
X






X

X
X
X

X


X
X
X

X
X
X
X
X

X
X
X


X



X
X
X

X


X
X
X

X
X
X
X

X

X
X
X
X
X

X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X

X
X
X
X

X
X







X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X

X
X
X
X


X








X
X
X

X


X
X
X

X
X
X
X









X

X
X
X
X




EPA 910-R-15-002

-------
                                                               FY2014 Annual Report
ll
Regional Laboratories Core Capabilities — FY2014
I. Chemistry
Analyte/Group Name
Sample Media
Analytical Technique
ORGANIC CHEMISTRY
PAHs
TOO
TOO
VOA
VOA
VOA (TCLP)
VOA (TPH)
Water
Soil/Sediment
Air
Tissue (fish &/or plant)
Waste (oil, drum, etc.)
Water
Soil
Water
Water
Soil/Sediment
Air
Waste (oil, drum, etc.)
Water
Soil/Sediment
Waste (oil, drum, etc.)
Solid/Waste
Water
Soil/Sediment
GC/MS
GC/MS
GC/MS
GC/MS
GC/MS
Combustion/IR
Combustion/IR
UV/Persulfate
GC/MS
GC/MS
GC/MS
GC/MS
GC
GC
GC
GC/MS
GC/MS or GC
GC/MS or GC
Regional Capability
1
X
X
X
X
X



X
X
X
X


X



2
X
X


X
X
X

X
X

X



X


3
X
X


X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X






4
X
X

X
X
X
X

X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
5
X
X



X
X

X
X
X



X
X
X
X
6
X
X


X


X
X
X
X
X



X
X
X
7
X
X
X
X
X
X
X

X
X
X
X



X
X
X
8
X
X


X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
9
X
X





X
X
X
X
X




X
X
10
X
X

X
X
X
X

X
X

X



X
X
X
II. Physical and Other Determinations
Flash Point
Conductivity
Ignitability
pH
Solids, Non-Filterable
Solids, Percent
Solids, Total
Solids, Total Dissolved
Solids, Total Volatile
Turbidity

Aqueous/Liquid
Waste (oil, drum, etc.)
Water
Soil/Sediment
Waste (oil, drum, etc.)
Water
Soil/Sediment
Waste (oil, drum, etc.)
Water
Soil/Sediment
Water
Water
Water
Water

Pensky-Martens or Seta
Specific Conductance
Ignitability of Solids
Pensky-Martens or Seta
Closed Cup
Electrometric
Electrometric
Electrometric
Gravimetric
Gravimetric
Gravimetric
Gravimetric
Gravimetric
Nephelometric

X
X


X
X
X
X
X
X
X

X

X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X

X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X

X

X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X

X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X

X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X

X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X


X

X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X


X


X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X

X
X

X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X

III. Biology/Microbiology
Coliform, Total
Coliform, Fecal
E. coli
Toxicity (Acute & Chronic)
Heterotrophic PC
Water, Soil &/or
Sludge
Water, Soil &/or
Sludge
Water, Soil &/or
Sludge
Water
Water
Various
Various
Various
Fathead, Ceriodaphnia
Various
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X

X
X
X
X
X
X










X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X

X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X
X

X
X
X
X

X


-------
                                                  FY2014 Annual Report
Regional Laboratories Unique Capabilities — FY2014
REGION 1
Analyte/Group Name
Sample Media
Analytical Technique
Supported Program(s)
Comments
INORGANIC CHEMISTRY
Inorganic Anions
Mercury
Metals
Perchlorate

Water
Water, Tissue
Water, Sediment, Soil,
Waste (drum), Paint,
Dust, Cosmetics
Water

1C (EPA Method 300.0)
Direct Mercury Analyzer
(Thermal Decomposition,
Amalgamation & Atomic
Absorption
Spectrophotometry)
EPA Method 7473
XRF (EPA Method 6200)
LC/MS/MS (EPA Method
331.0)

Water
Superfund, Water
Superfund, TSCA (Pb)
Superfund/Water



Field Screening and
Laboratory Testing


ORGANIC CHEMISTRY
Carbonyls
1 ,4-Dioxane
Ethylene Glycol
Explosives
Oil Identification
Organic Compounds
Oxygenated
Compounds/Benzene
PAHs
PCBs
Pentachlorophenol
Pesticides/PCBs
Pharmaceuticals and Personal
Care Products (PPCP)
VOCs
Air
Water
Water
Water, Soil
Water
Solid, Liquid
Fuel
Soil/Sediment
Air, Wipes
Soil, Sediment
Water, Soil, Sediment,
Waste (drum)
Water, Soil, Sediment,
Waste (drum)
Water
Air (mini-cans)
Water, Soil, Air
HPLC (EPA Method TO-11A)
GC/MS Purge & Trap (EPA
Method 8260)
GC
HPLC (EPA Method 8330)
GC/FID(ASTMD-3415-79)
FTIR
IR (RFG Inspector's Manual)
Immunoassay (EPA Method
4035)
GC/ECD (EPA Method
3508A)
Immunoassay (EPA Method
4010)
GC/ECD (EPA Method
8081 A/8082)
GC/ECD (EPA Method 680)
LC/MS/MS
GC/MS (EPA Method TO-15)
GC/ECD/PID
Air
Superfund

Superfund
Superfund
Superfund - ERB
Air
Superfund
Air/Superfund
Superfund
Superfund
Superfund
Water
Superfund
Superfund





Unknown ID









PHYSICAL AND OTHER DETERMINATIONS
Grain Size
Loss on Ignition (LOI)
Percent Lipids
Soil, Sediment
Sediment
Tissue
Sieve (Modified ASTM)

Gravimetric
Superfund, Water
Water

Region 1 SOP


BIOLOGY/MICROBIOLOGY
Enterococci
Chlorophyll a
Toxicity (Acute)
Ambient water
Ambient water
Sediment
Enterolert/EPA Method 1600
EPA 445.0
C. dilutus, H. azteca
Ambient monitoring
Ambient monitoring
Water, Superfund


Bulk sediment


-------
                                                               FY2014 Annual Report
ll
Regional Laboratories Unique Capabilities — FY2014
REGION 2
Analyte/Group Name
Sample Media
Analytical Technique
Supported Program(s)
Comments
INORGANIC CHEMISTRY
CO
NOx
SO2
Percent Sulfur
Vanadium
Air/N2
Air/N2
Air/N2
Fuel Oil
Fuel Oil
EPA Reference or Equivalent
Method as in 40 CFR Part 58
EPA Reference or Equivalent
Method as in 40 CFR Part 58
EPA Reference or Equivalent
Method as in 40 CFR Part 58
ASTM D4294
ICP/AES
Air
Air
Air
Air
Air




Dry ashing at 525°C
ORGANIC CHEMISTRY
Asphaltenes (Hexane
Insolubles)
Methane, Ethane, Ethene
Ozone Precursors
(hydrocarbons)
Pesticides
Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons
Fuel Oil
Water
Air
Wipes
Water, Solid
ASTM 3279
GC/FID
GC/MS/FID
LC/MS/MS and GC/MS
Hexane Extraction (EPA
Method 1664)
Air
SF/RCRA
Air
General
Water





PHYSICAL AND OTHER DETERMINATIONS
Density
Grain Size
Particulates (Fine)
Percent Volatile Matter
Percent Water
Viscosity

Ink, Paint
Solid
Solid
Air

Ink, Paint
Fuel Oil

ASTM D1 475
Pipet Method
Hydrometer Method (based
on ASTM D422-63)
EPA Reference or Equivalent
Method as in 40 CFR Part 58
ASTM D2369
ASTMD4017
ASTM D88

Air
Superfund, Water
Superfund, Water
Air
Air
Air
Air









BIOLOGY/MICROBIOLOGY
Cryptosporidium
DMA - qPCR (Enterococcus)
DNA-qPCR E. coli
DNA, Markers, Various
Enterococcus Group
Giardia
mColiblue24
Enterolert w/Quantitray
Colilert 18/Colilert w/Quantitray
Water
Water (Fresh & Marine)
Water (Fresh & Marine)
Water (Fresh & Marine)
Water
Water
Water
Water
Water
Fluorescent Microscopy
(EPA Method 1623)
EPA/Cepheid Methodology
EPA/CDC Protocols
Geese, Gull, Cow, HF183,
Gen Bacteroidales
Membrane Filtration
Fluorescent Microscopy
(EPA Method 1623)
MF/Hach
Defined Substrate Technology
Defined Substrate Technology
Water
Water
Water
Water
Water
Water
Water
Water
Water










-------
                                                  FY2014 Annual Report
Regional Laboratories Unique Capabilities — FY2014
REGION 3
Analyte/Group Name
Sample Media
Analytical Technique
Supported Program(s)
Comments
ORGANIC CHEMISTRY
Nitroaromatics & Nitroamines
Nitroglycerine
Nitrogen, Total
Chemical Warfare Agents
PCB Congeners
Water, Soil/Sediment
Water, Soil/Sediment
Water
Water/Solid/Wipe
Water, Soil/Sediment,
semi-permeable
membrane device
(SPMD)
HPLC
HPLC
Colorimetric
GC/MS
HR GC/MS
Water
Water

Emergency Response

Method 8330
Method 8332


Method 1668C
PHYSICAL AND OTHER DETERMINATIONS
ID Ozone-Depleting
Compounds
ID Unknowns
Alcohols
ID Unknowns

Propellants/Aerosols
Bulk Mercury
Water
Soil/Sediment
Water, Soil/Sediment
Wastes

FTIR
Density
FTIR
FTIR
FTIR
FTIR

Air Enforcement
Superfund, RCRA
Water

RCRA




Screening it, identify
unknowns
Screening it, identify
unknowns
When necessary for
ignitability
Screening it, identify
unknowns

BIOLOGY/MICROBIOLOGY
Benthic Macroinvertebrate
Marine/Estuarine Benthic
Invertebrate Taxonomy

Freshwater
Invertebrate Specimens
or Unsorted Sediment

Identification
EPA EMAP Protocols

Water



Organisms identified to
species or lowest taxonomy
possible

REGION 4
INORGANIC CHEMISTRY
Chromium (+6)
Mercury, Total - Ultra-Low
Detection Level
Metals, Total
Metals (TCLP)

Soil/Sediment
Water
Tissue
Soil/Sediment
Waste (oil, drum, etc.)
Air
Soil/Waste (oil, drum)

Std Method 3500 CrD
CVAF
CVAF
CVAF
ICP/MS
Hi-Vol Filters
ICP/MS

DW, Superfund
Water
Water, Superfund
Water, Superfund
RCRA
Air
RCRA


Method 1631
Appendix 1631
Appendix 1631
not commonly available
not commonly available
not commonly available

ORGANIC CHEMISTRY
Freon Products
Natural Attenuation Analytes
PCB Congeners
Toxaphene Congeners
Ultimate BOD
Canister & Air
Water
Water
Soil/Sediment
Tissue
Water/Soil
Water
GC/MS
GC/FID
None
None
None
GC/NIMS (EPA Method 8276)
Membrane Electrode (Std
Method 521 OC)
Air, OECA
Superfund
Superfund, RCRA
Superfund, RCRA
Superfund, RCRA
Water, Superfund
Water
Special analysis technique
developed for criminal
investigations of illegal Freon
Methane, ethane, ethene
High resolution GC/MS
High resolution GC/MS
High resolution GC/MS
6 parlars, 2 breakdown
products

BIOLOGY/MICROBIOLOGY
Chlorophyll
Water

Water



-------
                                                               FY2014 Annual Report
ll
Regional Laboratories Unique Capabilities — FY2014
REGION 5
Analyte/Group Name
Sample Media
Analytical Technique
Supported Program(s)
Comments
INORGANIC CHEMISTRY
Bromide/Chloride Ratio
Chloride
Metals
Brine Samples
Soil/Sediment
Suspended Particulate
Matter
1C & related characterization
techniques; ion balance
1C
ICP/MS
Water, UIC, &SDWA
Sediment
Air
Difficult analyses

Analysis of TSP, Pm10,PM2.5
filters for metals
ORGANIC CHEMISTRY
Nonylphenol (NP), NP-1 and 2-
ethoxylate, octyphenol, &
bisphenol-A
Nonylphenol (AP), AP-1 and 2-
ethoxylate, octyphenol, &
bisphenol-A
Nonylphenol (NP), NP-1 and 2-
ethoxylate, octyphenol
Bisphenol-A
Nonylphenol carboxylates
Long chain NP, NPEOs (n=3-
18)
COD
PCBs
PCB Congeners
Purgeable 1,4-Dioxane &
Tetrahydrofuran (THF)
Various analytes (VOAs,
SVOCs, & Pesticides/PCBs)
129 Toxic Industrial Chemicals
(TICs) & CWAdegradants (107
validated)
Aldicarb, aldicarb sulfone,
aldicarb sulfoxide, carbofuran,
oxamyl, methomyl, &thiofanox
Aldicarb, bromadiolone,
carbofuran, oxamyl, &
methomyl
Thiodiglycol
Thiodiglycol
Thiodiglycol
Diethanolamine,
triethanolamine,
n-methyldiethanolamine, &
methyldiethanolamine
Water
Soil/Sediment
Water
Water
Water
Water
Soil/Sediment
Water, Oil, Soil, Wipes
Water. Sludge
Water
Water, Soil/Sediment
Drinking Water
Water
Water
Water
Soil
Wipes
Water
GC/MS(ASTMD7065-11)
GC/MS (8270
modified/Internal SOP)
LC/MS/MS (ASTM D7485-09)
LC/MS/MS (ASTM D7574-09)
LC/MS/MS
LC/MS/MS (ASTM D7742-1 1)
Colorimetric
8082 (GC/EC)
GC/MS/MS, GC/NCI/MS
Method 624-Dioxane (Wide-
Bore Capillary Column GC/
MS)
ESAT FASP Methods GC/EC
for VOAs, SVOCs, &
Pesticides/PCBs (XRF for
metals)
LC/MS/MS Library Screening
LC/MS/MS, ASTM 7645-10
LC/MS/MS, ASTM 7600-09
LC/MS/MS, CRL SOP MS015
LC/MS/MS, ASTM E2787-1 1
LC/MS/MS, ASTM E2838-1 1
LC/MS/MS, ASTM D7599-09
Water
Water
Water
Water
Water
Water
Sediment
TSCA
RCRA, SF, TSCA, Water
Superfund
Superfund
WSD, NHSRC
NHSRC
NHSRC
NHSRC
NHSRC
NHSRC
NHSRC
Endocrine disrupter - high
concentration method (ppb)
Endocrine disrupter
Endocrine disrupter low-level
method (ppt)
Endocrine disrupter low-level
method (ppt)
Endocrine disrupter
Endocrine disrupter

Aroclor-specific TSCA reg.
Compliance method &
multiple action levels
Compare with HRGC/HRMS
method
Specific analyte analysis
method
Fast TAT onsite; Screening or
better data; Fast extraction for
organics
Library search routine
developed under CRADA with
Waters Corp. Now use NIST
LC/MS/MS Library of over
2,000 analytes
SAP Method
SAP Method
SAP Method
SAP Method
SAP Method
SAP Method

-------
                                                  FY2014 Annual Report
Regional Laboratories Unique Capabilities — FY2014
REGION 5
Analyte/Group Name
Sample Media
Analytical Technique
Supported Program(s)
Comments
ORGANIC CHEMISTRY
Dioctyl Sulfosuccinat (DOSS)
in sea water
Dipropylene glycol monobutyl
ether ðylene glycol
monobutyl ether in seawater
Bromodiolone, brodifacoum,
diphacinone, & warfarin in
water
Diisopropyl
methylphosphonate, ethyl
hydrogendimethylamidophosph
ate, ethyl methylphosphonic
acid, isopropyl
methylphosphonic acid,
methylphosphonic acid, and
pinacoiyl methylphosphonic
acid
DIMP, EMPA, IMPA, MPA,
PMPA
Seawater
Seawater
Water
Water
Soil
LC/MS/MS, ASTM D7730-1 1
LC/MS/MS, ASTM D7731-11
LC/MS/MS, ASTM D7644-1 1
LC/MS/MS, ASTM 7597-09
LC/MS/MS, ASTM WK34580
NHSRC/SF
NHSRC/SF
NHSRC
NHSRC
NHSRC
SAP Method
SAP Method
SAP Method
SAP Method
SAP Method
PHYSICAL AND OTHER DETERMINATIONS
Corrosivity by pH
Particle Size
Water Content
Paint Filter Test
Specific Gravity
Synthetic Precipitation
Leaching Procedure (SPLP)
Hazardous Waste
Soil/Sediment
Hazardous waste
Paints and coatings
Soil/Sediment
Solid Waste
SW8461110
Particle size analyzer
provides continuum of sizes -
CRL SOP
SW846

Appendix IV of the Corps of
Engineers Engineering
Manual (F10-F22)
SW8461312
RCRA
GLNPO, Water-Sediment
RCRA, Superfund
RCRA, Superfund
Sediment
RCRA, Superfund
Waste characterization
For modelling and soil
migration calcs
Support for flashpoint


For all TCLP analytes except
herbicides


-------
                                                               FY2014 Annual Report
ll
Regional Laboratories Unique Capabilities — FY2014
REGION 6
Analyte/Group Name
Sample Media
Analytical Technique
Supported Program(s)
Comments
INORGANIC CHEMISTRY
Ammonia
Ozone
NOx
SOx
Trace level Hex Chrome
Perchlorate
Metals by X-Ray Fluorescence
Air (passive coated
filter)
Air (passive coated
filter)
Air (passive coated
filter)
Air (passive coated
filter)
Water
Water
Soil
1C
1C
1C
1C
IC/UV
IC/MS/MS
portable XRF
CAA
CAA
CAA
CAA
Water
Water
Superfund, RCRA
Ogawa passive air collection
device
Ogawa passive air collection
device
Ogawa passive air collection
device
Ogawa passive air collection
device


field screening
ORGANIC CHEMISTRY
Fingerprint (pattern recognition)
Incidental PCBs
Chemical Warfare Agents
PAMS (C2s and C3s identified)
PCBs (Aroclor)
PAHs (trace)
Chemical Warfare Agents -
degradation products
VOCs by OVM
Organophosphorous Pesticides
(OPPs)
High-level waste
Oil
Fuel
Water
Soil/Sediment
Waste
Water/Solid/Wipe
Air
Electrical cable
Water/Solid/Oil
Water
Air
Water
Soil/Sediment

GC/MS
GC/MS
GC/MS
GC/MS; Method 680
Homologue Series
GC/MS; Method 680
Homologue Series
GC/MS; Method 680
Homologue Series
GC/MS
GC/MS/FID (split)
GC; Separation, extraction,
analysis of individual
components; Mod of program
-specific technique
GC/QQQ
LC/MS/MS
GC/MS
GC/NPD
GC/NPD
GC/NPD
RCRA
RCRA
RCRA
TSCA, RCRA
TSCA, RCRA
TSCA, RCRA
Emergency Response
CAA
TSCA
RCRA, Superfund
Emergency Response
CAA
CWA, RCRA, Superfund
RCRA, Superfund
RCRA, Superfund



grouped by number of
chlorine
grouped by number of
chlorine
grouped by number of
chlorine

C2s and C3s are
individually quantitated
Toluene is extraction solvent


passive air monitoring



PHYSICAL AND OTHER DETERMINATIONS
Corrosivity by pH
Waste
Method 1110 Corrosivity
Toward Steel
RCRA


-------
                                                  FY2014 Annual Report
Regional Laboratories Unique Capabilities — FY2014

Analyte/Group Name
INORGANIC CHEMISTRY
CO
NOx
SO2
03
In-vitro Bioassessibility Assays
for Arsenic & Lead in Soil
ORGANIC CHEMISTRY
Chlordane
Herbicides
Pesticides

VOCs

PCBs
Pharmaceuticals and Personal
Care Products (PPCPs)
PAHs, Pesticides, Herbicides
VOCs
VOCs from In-situ Chemical
Oxidation Sites
BIOLOGY/MICROBIOLOGY
E. coli
Enterococci
Heterotrophic Bacteria
Chlorophyll a
Invertebrate Taxonomy
Marine/Estuarine Benthic
Taxonomy

Sample Media

Air
Air
Air
Air
Soil

Air(PUF)
Water, Soil/Sediment
Water, Soil/Sediment,
Tissue
Air Canister
Air Sorbent Tube
Water
Soil/Sediment, Waste
Water
Water
Water, Soil, Air
Water

Water (drinking/waste/
ambient)
Water
Water
Ambient water
Invertebrates
Benthic Organisms
REGION 7
Analytical Technique

40 CFR Part 58
40 CFR Part 58
40 CFR Part 58
40 CFR Part 58
ICP/MS-ICP/AES

GC/ECD (EPA Method TO-
4A)
GC/ECD
GC/ECD
GC/MS (EPA Method TO-14
&TO-15)
GC/MS (EPA Method TO-17)
GC/MS
GC/ECD
LC/MS/MS
Twister GC/MS Stir Bar
Sorbtive Extraction
(solventless extraction)
GC/MS Mobile Laboratory
GC/MS

qPCR
qPCR
Plate Count - Standard
Methods
EPA 445.0
EPA EMAP Protocols


Supported Program(s)

Air
Air
Air
Air
Superfund/RCRA

Special Project
Water
Water
Air/Superfund
Air/Superfund
Superfund/ORD
Superfund/ORD
Water
Water
Superfund
Superfund

Water
Water
Water
Ambient monitoring
Water
Water

Comments

OAQPS Protocol Gas
Verification Program
OAQPS Protocol Gas
Verification Program
OAQPS Protocol Gas
Verification Program
NIST Standard Reference
Photometer
SUPR Exposure/Toxicity
Assessment


Use Attainability Analysis
(UAA)
Use Attainability Analysis
(UAA)
Air Toxics
Air Toxics
In-situ Chemical Oxidation
Site Support
Rapid Site Screening
Endocrine disrupters
Use Attainability Analysis
(UAA)
Rapid Site Characterization
Improved Precision of VOC
Samples from In-situ
Chemical Oxidation Sites

2008 NFWA

Heterotrophic Bacteria


Organisms identified to
species or lowest taxonomy
possible


-------
                                                               FY2014 Annual Report
ll
Regional Laboratories Unique Capabilities — FY2014
REGION 8
Analyte/Group Name
Sample Media
Analytical Technique
Supported Program(s)
Comments
INORGANIC CHEMISTRY
Silica
Gadilinium

Water
Water

Colorimetric
ICP/MS

Water/Superfund
Water/Superfund


Wastewater Indicator

ORGANIC CHEMISTRY
Alcohols
Chlorophyll
Endothall
TPH (VOA & BNA)
LC/MS/MS Pesticides
Low-level Pesticides/CLLE
Metals - Arsenic/Selenium
speciation
Pharmaceuticals and Personal
Care Products (PPCPs)
Waste Indicator Compounds
Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons-
Diesel Range Organics
VOAs
Water
Water
Water
Water, Soil/Sediment
Water
Water
Water, Soil, Tissue
Water
Water
Water, Soil
Water, Soil/Sediment
GC/FID
HPLC
GC/MS
GC/MS or GC/FID
LC/MS/MS
GC/MS
IC/ICP/MS
LC/MS/MS
GC/MS
GC/FID
GC/PID/ELCD
Water/Superfund
Water/Superfund
Water/Superfund
Water/Superfund
Water/Superfund
Water/Superfund
Water/Superfund
Water/Superfund
Water/Superfund
Water/Superfund
Water/Superfund




Monitoring for States & Tribes
Monitoring for States & Tribes
Speciation data needed for
risk assessment
Endocrine disrupters
Monitoring for States & Tribes
Hydro-fracking

BIOLOGY/MICROBIOLOGY
Bacteria (Arsenic-Reducing)
Bacteria (Iron-Reducing)
Bacteria (Sulfate-Reducing)
Bacteria (Clostridium
perfringens)
Water, Sediment
Water, Sediment
Water, Sediment
Water
MPN
MPN
MPN
Membrane Filtration
Water/Superfund
Water/Superfund
Water/Superfund
Water/Superfund





-------
                                                  FY2014 Annual Report
Regional Laboratories Unique Capabilities — FY2014
REGION 9
Analyte/Group Name
Sample Media
Analytical Technique
Supported Program(s)
Comments
INORGANIC CHEMISTRY
Ferrous Iron
Mercury, Vapor, Particulate, &
Reactive
Methyl mercury
Metals (with mercury)
Metals (SPLP)
Low-level hexavalent chromium
Metals
Platinum Group Metals
Lead (Pb) in Air
Perchlorate
In-vitro bioassessibility assays
for arsenic & lead in soil
Water
Ambient Air
Water
Dust wipes, Ghost
wipes
Soil, Sediment, Solid,
Waste, Tissue
Drinking Water
Soil
Catalytic converter
washcoat
TSP high-volume filters
Water, Soil
Soil
Titration with Dichromate
Cold Vapor Atomic
Fluorescence
CVAF (EPA 1630)
ICP, ICPMS, CVAA
SW8461312:ICP, GFAA,
CVAA, ICP/MS
1C with post column reaction/
UV detection
Portable XRF
Portable XRF
FEM EQL-0710-192, ICP/MS
LC/MS/MS (EPA Method
331.0)
EPA 9200. 1-86
Superfund
Air, Water (TMDL)
Water
Tribal Program
Superfund, RCRA
Water
Superfund, Criminal
Investigation
Enforcement, Air
Air
Superfund/Water
Superfund








New Pb NAAQS


ORGANIC CHEMISTRY
Diazinon
1 ,4-Dioxane
EDB/DBCP
Methane, Ethane, Ethene

Water
Water, Soil, Sediment
Water
Water

ELISA
GC/MS
GC (EPA 504.1)
GC/FID(RSK-175)

WQM
Superfund, RCRA
Superfund, RCRA
Superfund, RCRA






BIOLOGY/MICROBIOLOGY
Benthic Taxonomic
Identification
Chlorophyll/Pheophytin
Enterococci
Heterotrophic Bacteria
Microcystin
Toxicity Test, Red Abalone
(Haliotis rufescens) Larval
Development
Toxicity Test, Sea Urchin
Fertilization (Stronglyocentrotus
purpuratus)
Sediment (Marine)
Water/Periphyton
Water
Water
Water
Water
Water
Taxonomic Identification
Standard Method 1 0200 H,
Procedure 2b
Enterolert
Plate Count - Standard
Methods
Immunoassay
EPA/600/R-95/136
EPA/600/R-95/136
Water, WQM
Water, WQM
Water, NPDES, WQM
Water, NPDES, WQM
Water
NPDES
Water, NPDES









-------
                                                               FY2014 Annual Report
ll
Regional Laboratories Unique Capabilities — FY2014
REGION 10
Analyte/Group Name
Sample Media
Analytical Technique
Supported Program(s)
Comments
INORGANIC CHEMISTRY
Asbestos, Bulk
Low-Level Mercury
Methyl Mercury
Metals
Metals - Arsenic speciation
Metals (TAL) + Total Uranium
Metals (SPLP)
Chlorophyll a
In-vitro Bioassessibility Assays
for Lead in Soil
Percent Water
Perchlorate
Solids
Water
EPA600/R93/116-XRD
CVAF, Method 1 631 E
Water GC/CVAFS, Method 1630
Air filters
Blood
Soil
Paint
Solid
Fish/shellfish/seaweed
Small mammals,
invertebrates
Soil/Waste
Water
Soil
Liquid Waste
Produce (fruits, milk)
ICP/MS, ICP
ICP/MS
Portable XRF
Portable XRF
X-Ray Diffractometer (XRD)
IC/ICP/MS
Microwave Digestion, ICP/
AES, ICP/MS
ICP/AES, ICP/MS
SM1002H
Leachates by Method 1340,
ICP/AES
Karl Fischer titration
IC/MS
Superfund
Water, Superfund
Water, Superfund
CAA
Superfund
Superfund, Criminal
TSCA, Criminal
Superfund
Superfund, Water
Superfund, RCRA
Superfund
Water
Superfund
RCRA
Superfund

0.2 to 0.5 ng/L reporting limits



Screening results for metals
Lead in paint
Characterizes the form metals
exist in sample
Speciation data needed for
risk assessment
Biomonitoring projects





ORGANIC CHEMISTRY
BNA (selected)
Butyl tins
1 ,4-Dioxane
Explosives (Nitroaromatics &
Nitroamines)
Hydrocarbon Identification
N-Nitrosodimethylamine
Herbicides
Polybrominated diphenyl ethers
(PBDEs)
Total Petroleum Hydrocarbons-
Gasoline Range Organics
VOA & SVGA
Low-level Polyaromatic
Hydrocarbons and
Other Neutral Organics
Low-level Polyaromatic
Hydrocarbons
Tissue
Soil/Sediment
Water
Water, Soil, fish/
shellfish
Water, Soil/Sediment
Water, Soil
Water, Soil/Sediment
Water
Sediment/bio solids
Tissue (fish)
Water, Soil
Water, Soil
Industrial wastes,
Solids, Tissues
Soil, Sediments
Shellfish, Water
SW846 Methods Superfund
GC/MS Superfund, Criminal
EPA Method 8270D SIM/
Method 522
EPA Method 8330/HPLC
NWTPH-HCID
Method 521
GC/MS
GC/MS Low Resolution
GC/MS Low Resolution
GC/MS Low Resolution
NWTPH-Gx
NWTPH-Dx
Vacuum distillation, Method
8261 A
GC/MS-MS
GC/MS-MS
Superfund
Superfund
Superfund, Criminal
Superfund
Superfund
Water
Superfund, Water
Superfund
Superfund, RCRA
Superfund, RCRA
Superfund, RCRA
Superfund, Brownfields,
Water
Superfund, Brownfields

WDOE method













PHYSICAL AND OTHER DETERMINATIONS
Multi-Increment Sampling (MIS)
Preparation of Soil Samples for
Organic & Inorganic Analyses
Variety of water quality tests

Soil
Water

Described in Method 8330B
Appendix
Various probe-type
measurements

Superfund
Superfund


Flow thru cell system;
performed in the field

BIOLOGY/MICROBIOLOGY
Aeromonas spp
Cryptosporidium & Giardia
Enterococci
Microbial Source Tracking
Microscopic testing
Drinking Water
Water
Ambient Water
Water
Drinking/Source Water
EPA Method 1605
EPA Method 1623 (Filtration/
IMS Staining)
EPA Method 1600
PCR
Microscopic particulate
analysis
SDWA- Unregulated
Contaminant Monitoring Rue
(UCMR)
SDWA, Water, Ambient
Monitoring Rule - recreational
waters
Ambient Monitoring Rule
Water
Surface Water Treatment
Rule
EPA Approved
On approval list for LT-2
regulation


Microscopic technique used to
establish GWUDI
characteristics of a drinking
water

-------
                                                               FY2014 Annual Report
         Regional Laboratories Developing Capabilities — FY2014
REGION 1
Project Method
Enterococcus in Water by qPCR (EPA
Method 1611) Capability Development
Developmental Need
Water
Status
In progress
Projected Completion
FY2014
REGION 2
SIM Analysis for VOA&
Semi-VOA analysis
MST Markers, Pig, Cow, Gull
PCPP Hospital Waste
Drinking & Surface Water
Stormwater
Emergency Contamination
Developing methods on current
instrumentation
Completed
Completed
FY2015


REGION 3
Arsenic Speciation for Water, Soil/
Sediment, & Tissue by 1C or ICP/MS
EPA Method 1694 for Pharmaceuticals
& Personal Care Products by LC/MS/
MS
PCR Quantitation & Source Tracking
Glycols in Water
ELISA
Independent Laboratories Institute
Solid-Phase Extraction Study

Speciation data to be used for
Risk Assessments in support of
Clean Water Act & Superfund
Need for capability to identify &
quantify pharmaceutical &
personal care products
Need for capability to determine
source of E. coli contamination in
support of Water Program
Need for capability to identify
glycol compounds in groundwater
using LC/MS/MS to achieve lower
quantitation limits
Need for in-field testing of surface
& drinking water for presence of
estrogen & estrogen-like
compounds
Office of Water

Identified developmental need;
initiated research & evaluation of
analytical procedures; project placed
on hold due to lack of demand for
analysis
Cancelled due to loss of analyst
In-progress
Complete
Complete
Continued work

On Hold
On Hold
FY2013
FY2013
FY2013


REGION 4
EPA Method 8261
Internal Method - GC/MS/MS
Pesticides by Method 8081 , DDT Suite
Pesticides by Method 8270D using GC/
MS/MS
Low-level TO-1 5 using Selective Ion
Monitoring simultaneous Full Scan
Hydride ESI Autosamplerfor high
matrix samples and lower reporting
limits for arsenic and selenium
Release of silica and other metals from
nanoparticle study
Bioavailability of lead

VOCs in difficult matrices
Low-level Pesticides w/MS
confirm
Superfund
Superfund
Superfund, Air
ODMDS, Superfund, TMDL
ORD
Superfund

Initial investigation
ITMEs in-process
Paper was published 2014
Continued Work
Continued Work
Continued Work
Continued Work
Continued Work

Unknown
January 2015







REGION 5
PFOA/PFOS in Biosolids & Water
qPCR, Gene Sequencing Guar Gum
Methane, Ethane, & Ethene in Water
by GC/FID
Fluorotelemer Alcohols in Water by LC/
MS/MS
Standard Operating Procedure for
Analysis of (Tri-n-butyl)-n
tetradecylphosphonium chloride
(TTPC) in Soil by Multiple Reaction
Monitoring Liquid Chromatography/
Mass Spectrometry (LC/MS/MS)
PFOA/PFOS in Biosolids
PFOA/PFOS in Water
Methane, Ethane and Ethene in Water
qPCR Gene Sequencing Guar Gum
Fluorotelemer Alcohols in Water by LC/
MS/MS
Water Division study - RMI
HF fluid screening tool - Region 3
support
Water Program request
Water
SF Emergency Response
Water
Water
Water
Water, HF
Water
Initial work done, new instrument
installed & standards run to set
up instrument.
Some samples sequenced; screening
tool in process
Method developed; SOP in draft
Initiated
Initiated and Completed
Completed
Completed
Continued work
Continued work
Continued work
FY2015
FY2015
FY2015
FY2015







EPA 910-R-15-002

-------
                                                                 FY2014 Annual Report
ll
Regional Laboratories Developing Capabilities — FY2014
REGION 6
Project Method
Anions and Oxyhalides by 1C
Asbestos
Alcohols by Headspace GC/MS
Analysis
Dissolved Gasses in Water by GC/FID
Direct mercury analysis (CVAF -
milestone)
PAHs by GC/QQQ
Dinitrotoluene minor isomers
High Dissolved Solids Modified
Method/Anion
High Dissolved Solids/Modified
Method/Cation
High Dissolved Solids/Modified
Method/OA
PPCP analysis
Passive Formaldehyde
Induction-Coupled Plasma Axial
Method
Cyanide in Soil Matrix
Sulfide in Water Matrix
Low Molecular Weight Acids in
Resource Extraction Analysis
Haloacetic Acids in Resource
Extraction Analysis
PAHs by GC/QQQ
Dinitrotoluene minor isomers
High Dissolved Solids/Modified
Method/Anion
High Dissolved Solids / Modified
Method/Cation
High Dissolved Solids/Modified
Method/OA
PPCP analysis
Passive Formaldehyde
Induction Coupled Plasma Axial
Method
Cyanide in Soil Matrix
Sulfide in Water Matrix
Low Molecular Weight Acids in
Resource Extraction Analysis
Haloacetic Acids in Resource
Extraction Analysis
Developmental Need
Remove dependence on State
Lab for this test
Superfund/RCRA Enforcement
Energy Extraction
Energy Extraction
Clean Water Act, RCRA,
Superfund
RCRA, Superfund
Superfund
Clean Water Act, RCRA,
Superfund
Clean Water Act, RCRA,
Superfund
Clean Water Act, RCRA,
Superfund
Water
Clean Air Act
Superfund; new technique to
generate lower reporting limits for
metals
RCRA & Superfund
RCRA & Superfund
Drinking Water
Drinking Water
Superfund, RCRA
Superfund
Superfund, RCRA, CWA
Superfund, RCRA, CWA
Superfund, RCRA, CWA
CWA
CAA
Superfund
Superfund, RCRA
Superfund, RCRA
SDWA
SDWA
Status
Method developed, need DOC/MDL;
SO Ps
Training; DOC; SOP preparation
Completed during FY2013
Completed during FY2013
DOC/MDL; SOP preparation
Continued method development
Continued method development
Method being developed
Method being developed
Method being developed
Method being developed
Method being developed
Method being developed; performance
studies are ongoing
Method being developed
Initiated method development
Method being developed
Method being developed
Completed
Completed
Continued
Continued
Continued
Continued
Continued
Continued
Completed
Completed
Continued
Continued
Projected Completion
September 201 4
Program-dependent
December 201 3
December 201 3
December 201 4
December 2014
December 201 4
October 201 4
October 201 4
October 201 4
April 201 4
Summer 2014
FY2014
FY2014
FY2014
Spring 2015
FY2014












                                                                   EPA 910-R-15-002

-------
                                                               FY2014 Annual Report
         Regional Laboratories Developing Capabilities — FY2014
REGION 7
Project Method
EPA Method 1694 for Pharmaceuticals
& Personal Care Products by HPLC/
MS/MS
Pesticides by GC/MS/MS
Microbial Source Tracking Using qPCR
Arsenic Speciation for Water, Soil/
Sediment & Tissue by 1C or ICP/MS
EPA Method 1 694 for Pharmaceuticals
& Personal Care Products by HPLC/
MS/MS
PAH/SVOC in Water by Stir Bar
Sorbtive Extraction
Airborne VOC by solid sorbent tube
(EPA Method TO-1 7)
Arsenic Speciation for Water, Soil/
Sediment & Tissue by 1C or ICP/MS

Developmental Need
Speciation data to be used for
Risk Assessments in support of
Clean Water Act & Superfund
Confirmational analysis of
pesticide analytes previously
performed by GC/ECD
TMDL & Stormwater
Speciation data to be used for
Risk Assessments in support of
Clean Water Act & Superfund
Water
Water, SUPR
Water, SUPR, RCRA
Water

Status
Performing method validation studies
on surrogate compounds; developing
SOP
Instrument installed, method
development & validation pending
Non-human marker test completed;
pending additional technical method
guidance from ORD
Method development currently
underway
Continued work
Continued work
Continued work
continuing

Projected Completion
FY2015
FY2016
FY2015
FY2015





REGION 8
Asbestos/Electron Microscope
Endocrine Disrupter Studies/LC/MS/MS
Macroinvertebrate - Freshwater
Benthic/Manual Enumeration
Microbial Source Tracking
Microbial Source Tracking by PCR
Arsenic Speciation for Water, Soil/
Sediment, &Tissue/IC/ICP/MS
Toxicity - Acute & Chronic in Mobile
Lab
Pharmaceuticals by LC/MS/MS
Pesticides by LC/MS/MS
Hormones & Steroids by LC/MS/MS
Algal Toxins
Need for capabilities to analyze
water & soils for asbestos
contamination at Superfund sites
Emerging needs for the Water
program & ORD
Redevelop capability for Water
program support due to loss of
staff
Develop capabilities in this
technology for use in projects &
emerging needs for the
Superfund, Water programs, &
ORD
Develop capabilities in this
technology for use in projects and
emerging needs for the Water,
Enforcement programs and ORD.
Speciation data to be used for
Risk Assessments in support of
Clean Water Act & Superfund
Onsite assessment for potential
needs by the Water program
Water& ORD
Water
Water& ORD
Water
Instrument operational & running
samples
Performing method validation
Planning to hire replacement staff
Biolog system installed; some staff
trained; assessing method
Instruments & sample processing,
ESAT staff training and/or assessing
methods
Identified developmental need;
initiated research & evaluation of
analytical procedures; necessary
modifications to laboratory in progress
Mobile lab available; team lead
initiating discussion of projects & team
development
Progress continuing
Progress continuing
Progress continuing
continuing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing
Ongoing

REGION 9
Low-level total mercury in
water (EPA 1 631 E)
Analysis of Radiello passive air
samplers for VOCs
Anatoxin-a analysis using Receptor
Binding Assay (RBA)
Analysis of lead (Pb) on Teflon PM2 5
Filters
Methyl Mercury in Environmental
Samples
Address regional priority
Address regional priority
Water Program monitoring for
cyanotoxins
Air
Water
Instrumentation installed;
method development initiated
Assessing health & safety issues
Method development Initiated; no new
equipment needed; SOP drafted
Continued
Completed
FY2015
FY2015
EarlyFY2016



EPA 910-R-15-002

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                                                               FY2014 Annual Report
ll
Regional Laboratories Developing Capabilities — FY2014
REGION 10
Project Method
Develop Methyl Mercury Analysis
Capability for Sediment Samples
EPA Method 8330B Marine Tissue
Method Evaluation/Development
Ultra-trace Concentration Phosphorus
Method for Treated Wastewater
Effluent & Surface Water
Low-level Polynuclear Aromatic
Hydrocarbons (PAHs), Phenolics, &
Other Neutral Organics in Soils &
Sediments
Low-level PAH Analyses of Waters &
Clam Tissues
EPA Method 8330B Marine Tissue
Method Evaluation/Development-Multi-
Lab Study
Low Level Polynuclear Aromatic
Hydrocarbons, Phenolics and Other
Neutral Organics Analyses of Soil and
Sediments
Low Level Polynuclear Aromatic
Hydrocarbons Analyses of Waters and
Clam Tissues
Develop Methyl Mercury Analysis
Capability for Sediment Samples
Ultra-trace Concentration Phosphorus
Method for Treated Wastewater
Effluent and Surface Water
Developmental Need
Methyl mercury data needed to
support regional mercury strategy
toward characterizing levels in the
environment & evaluate public
health risks
Explosive concentration data in
marine tissue samples are needed
to help evaluate marine areas
polluted with military munitions
NPDES compliance monitoring at
ultra-low phosphorus levels
Measure PAHs & other semi-
volatile neutral organic
compounds at low concentrations
in marine sediments to assess
against NW states cleanup
standards with organic carbon
normalization
Measure PAHs at low levels in
clam tissues to support risk
assessment activities
Superfund
Superfund, Brownfields, Water
Superfund, Brownfields, Water
Superfund, Water
Water
Status
Some initial testing on instrument
conducted; based on the effort needed
to develop the water method,
capability for sediment analyses will
likely require much experimentation
with the Brooks-Rand instrument to
acquire the needed accuracy &
sensitivity for
sediments
Method development Completed;
multi-laboratory study through the
QATS contract is in progress
Ultra-trace standard concentration
measurements were achieved on a
Lachat colorimetric instrument & an
ICP/MS system; testing on actual
effluent samples still to be planned
GC/MS/MS system was setup for
extract analyses at very low
concentrations
Low-level Polynuclear Aromatic
Hydrocarbons Analyses of Waters &
Clam Tissues
Completed
Completed
Completed
Continued work
Continued work
Projected Completion
FY2015
Completed FY2014
FY2015
Developed and Completed FY2014
Developed and Completed FY2014






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                                                               FY2014 Annual Report
                 Appendix A — Acronyms/Abbreviations
  &EPA
United States
Environmental Protection
Agency
EPA 910-R-15-002

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                                       FY2014 Annual Report
Acronyms/Abbreviations

ACIL
ADEM
AQS
ASTM


BMP
BNA
BOD

CAA
CDC
CENWP
CERCLA
CFR
CID
CLP
COD
Cr
CVAA
CWA

DBCP
DECA
DNT

EDB
EPA
ESAT

FDA
FY


GC
GC/ECD
GC/FID
GC/MS
GC/MS/MS
GC/NPD
GFAA

Hg
HPLC/UV


1C
ID
-A-
American Council of Independent Laboratories
Alabama Department of Environmental Management
Air Quality System
American Society for Testing and Materials

-B-
best management practice
base/neutrals and acids
biological oxygen demand
-C-
Clean Air Act
Centers for Disease Control
Corps of Engineers' Portland District
Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act
Code of Federal Regulations
Criminal Investigation Division
Contract Laboratory Program
chemical oxygen demand
Chromium
cold vapor atomic absorption
Clean Water Act
-D-
Dibromochloropropane
Division of Enforcement and Compliance Assistance
dinitrotoluene
-E-
ethylene dibromide
Environmental Protection Agency
Environmental Services Assistance Team
-F-
U.S. Food and Drug Administration
Fiscal Year

-G-
gas chromatography
gas chromatography/electron capture detector
gas chromatography/flame ionization detector
gas chromatography/mass spectrometry
gas chromatography/mass spectrometry/mass spectrometry
gas chromatography/nitrogen-phosphorous detector
graphic furnace atomic absorption
-H-
Mercury
high performance liquid chromatography/ultraviolet

-1-
ion chromatography
identification

                                        EPA 910-R-15-002

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                                                                FY2014 Annual Report
                         Acronyms/Abbreviations

ICP
ICP/AES
ICP/MS
III
ISE
ISO






LC/MS
LC/MS/MS
LHC
LTIG


MCHM
MCR
MeHg
MPRSA


NEIC
NELAC
NGO
NO2
N03
MRS A


ODMDS
ORCR
ORD
OSC
OSWER
OU


PAH
PC
PCB
PCE
PEP
PFC
PM
-I-
Inductively-coupled plasma
Inductively-coupled plasma/atomic emission spectrometry
Inductively-coupled plasma/mass spectrometry
Independent Laboratories Institute
ion selective electrode
International Standards Organization

-J-

-K-

-L-
liquid chromatography/mass spectrometry
liquid chromatography/dual mass spectrometry
light hydrocarbon
Laboratory Technical Information Group

-M-
4-methylcyclohexanemethanol
Mouth of the Columbia River
methylmercury
Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act

-N-
National Enforcement Investigations Center
National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Conference
Non-Governmental Organizations
nitrite
nitrate
National Rivers and Streams Assessment

-O-
Ocean-Dredged Material Disposal Site
Office of Resource Conservation and Recovery
Office of Research and Development
On-Scene Coordinator
Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response
Operable Unit

-P-
polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon
plate count
polychlorinated biphenyl
tetrachloroethylene
Performance Evaluation Program
perfluorinated chemical
particu late matter
EPA 910-R-15-002

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                                       FY2014 Annual Report
Acronyms/Abbreviations

PNW
PPCP
PPH

QAPP
QC
QuEChERS

R2P2
RCRA
RLN
RMN


SCAS
SIMS
SIP
SLAMS
SOP
SPE
SRB
STP


TCE
TCLP
TMDL
TOC
TPH
TTPC


USAGE
U.S. EPA
uses

VOA
VOC









-P-
Pacific Northwest
Pharmaceuticals and Personal Care Product
polyglycol ethers
-Q-
Quality Assurance Project Plan
Quality Control
Quick, Easy, Cheap, Effective, Rugged, Safe
-R-
Regional Research Partnership Program
Resource Conservation and Recovery Act
Regional Laboratory Network
Regional Monitoring Network

-S-
semi-continuous activated sludge
secondary ion mass spectrometry
state implementation plan
State and Local Air Monitoring Station
standard operating procedure
solid-phase extraction
sulfate-reducing bacteria
sewage treatment plant

-T-
trichloroethylene
toxicity characteristic leaching procedure
total maximum daily load
total organic carbon
total petroleum hydrocarbon
(Tri-n-butyl)-n-tetradecylphosphoniumchloride

-U-
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
United States Environmental Protection Agency
U.S. Geological Survey
-V-
volatile organic analysis
volatile organic compound

-W-

-X-

-Y-

-Z-

                                        EPA 910-R-15-002

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