#«osx
A
$
<
3J
%
V PRO^
2
UJ
O
*
9*
SAVANNAH OCEAN DREDGED MATERIAL
DISPOSAL SITE
SITE MANAGEMENT AND
US Army Corps
of Engineers®
MONITORING PLAN
November 2023
ig.'^avaijiriah^ River.
FICQW 2.5s.4_8ro5M-
yljfee Knoll Spit
n South Chao/
FI(1)W 4s
T /bee-Island 9
j ¦' 4 \s_sh
'bee Creek
12S,Sh
t
® "J
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
The following Site Management and Monitoring Plan (SMMP) for the Savannah Ocean Dredged
Material Disposal Site (ODMDS) has been revised to comply with section 102(c)(3) of the Marine
Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act (MPRSA) of 1972 (33 U.S.C. section 1401, et seq.) as
amended by section 506 of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) Amendments of 1992
(Public Law 102-580) and has been approved by the following officials of the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) Region 4 and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE), Savannah District.
IP AMP AMMp Digitally signed by STURGEON.RONA Digitally signed by
UI_/mNI_/mNINI_ JEANEANNE GETTI F . ~ ,
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
Table of Contents
1 INTRODUCTION 6
1.1 Roles and Responsibilities 8
1.2 Definitions 9
2 SITE DESCRIPTION 10
2.1 Site History and Designation 10
2.1.1 Final Rule Text from 40 CFR 228.15(h)(6) 10
2.2 Site Location 11
2.3 Site Use 13
2.4 Past Monitoring Activities 15
2.5 Site Characterization 20
2.5.1 Physical Characterization 20
2.5.2 Chemical Characterization 20
2.5.3 Biological Characterization 21
3 SITE MANAGEMENT 21
3.1 Ocean Dumping Criteria Compliance Process 23
3.2 Dredged Material Characterization 23
3.3 Dredged Material Transportation and Disposal 25
3.3.1 Transportation of Dredged Material 25
3.3.2 Disposal Locations 25
3.3.3 Disposal Methods 25
3.3.4 Disposal Times 26
3.3.5 Disposal Vessel Tracking 26
3.4 Disposal Permitting & Reporting 27
3.4.1 Permitting Process 27
3.4.2 Information Management of Dredged Material Disposal Activities 27
3.4.3 Post Disposal Summary Reports 28
3.4.4 Project Initiation and Violation Reporting Requirements 29
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District 3
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP November 2023
4 SITE MONITORING 29
4.1 Monitoring the Transportation, Disposal, and Fate of Disposed Materials 31
4.1.1 Post-Disposal Monitoring Requirements 34
4.2 Monitoring Environmental Effects of Disposed Material 34
5 SUMMARY CONDITIONS FOR USE OF THE ODMDS 38
5.1 Prohibition on Trash and Debris 38
5.2 Prohibition on Leaking or Spilling During Transport 38
5.3 Quality Control Inspector and Scow Certification Checklist 38
5.4 Disposal Site Boundaries 39
5.5 Closed Door Hull Status 39
5.6 Violation Notification 39
5.7 Additional Project-Specific Conditions 40
5.8 Alternative Permit/Project Conditions 40
6 MODIFICATION OF THIS SMMP 41
7 REFERENCES 42
APPENDIX A-STFATE INPUT PARAMETERS 44
APPENDIX B -TEMPLATE GENERIC SPECIAL CONDITIONS FOR MPRSA SECTION 103 PERMITS 50
APPENDIX C - GENERIC CONTRACT LANGUAGE 56
APPENDIX D - SCOW CERTIFICATION CHECKLIST TEMPLATE 62
APPENDIX E - DISPOSAL HISTORY 63
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District 4
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
Figures
Figure 1. Savannah ODMDS location map 12
Figure 2. Savannah ODMDS 2023 bathymetry 15
Tables
Table 1. Savannah ODMDS Corner Coordinates (NAD83) 11
Table 2. Yearly record of dredged material disposal in the Savannah ODMDS from 2013 through
2023 (see Appendix E for 1976 - 2012) 13
Table 3. Surveys and Studies Conducted at the Savannah ODMDS 17
Table 4. Savannah ODMDS Monitoring Strategies and Thresholds for Action 32
Table 5. Environmental Impacts, Monitoring Activities, and Thresholds for Action 36
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District 5
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
1 INTRODUCTION
November 2023
The Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act (MPRSA), also referred to as the Ocean
Dumping Act, regulates the transportation and dumping of any material into ocean waters.
Under the MPRSA, no permit may be issued for ocean dumping where such dumping will
unreasonably degrade or endanger human health or the marine environment. Most material
dumped in the ocean today is dredged material (i.e., sediments) removed from the bottom of
water bodies to maintain navigation channels and berthing areas.
In the case of dredged material, the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) is responsible for
issuing ocean dumping permits and authorizing or conducting federal projects involving ocean
dumping of dredged material (MPRSA section 103). USACE applies the U.S. Environmental
Protection Agency (EPA) ocean dumping criteria when evaluating permit requests for (and
implementing federal projects involving) the transportation of dredged material for the
purpose of dumping into ocean waters. MPRSA permits and federal projects involving the
ocean dumping of dredged material are subject to the EPA's review and written concurrence.
The EPA may concur with or without conditions or decline to concur (i.e., non-concur) on the
permit or federal project. If the EPA concurs with conditions, the final permit or the terms of
the federal project authorization must include those conditions. If the EPA declines to concur
on an ocean dumping permit or federal project, USACE cannot issue the permit or authorize or
conduct the transportation to and disposal of dredged material in the ocean associated with
the federal project. According to USACE regulations at 33 CFR 325.6, MPRSA permits for
and federal projects involving the transportation of dredged material for the purpose of
dumping into ocean waters may not exceed three years.
Under MPRSA section 102, the EPA is responsible for the designation of all ocean disposal sites
and the management of such designated sites. The EPA's ocean dumping regulations at 40 CFR
Part 228 establish procedures for the designation and management of ocean disposal sites.
Unless otherwise specifically noted, site management authority for each site set forth in 40 CFR
228.15 is delegated to the EPA Regional office under which the site entry is listed. Management
of a site consists of regulating times, rates, and methods of disposal; regulating quantities and
types of materials disposed; developing and maintaining effective ambient monitoring
programs for the site; conducting disposal site evaluation studies; and recommending
modifications in site use and/or designation (40 CFR 228.3(a)).
The EPA shares the responsibilities of conducting management and monitoring activities at
EPA-designated ODMDSs with USACE. Under MPRSA section 102(c), the EPA, in conjunction
with USACE, is responsible for developing a site management and monitoring plan (SMMP) for
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
6
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
each designated ODMDS. The objective of each SMMP is to ensure that dredged material ocean
disposal activities will not unreasonably degrade the marine environment or endanger human
health or economic potentialities or other uses of the ocean. The SMMP provisions are an
integral part of managing all disposal activities at an ocean disposal site. Preparation of this
SMMP has been informed by the Guidance Document for Development of Site Management
Plans for Ocean Dredged Material Disposal Sites (EPA and USACE, 1996).
This SMMP may be modified during its term if the EPA, in conjunction with USACE, determines
that such changes are warranted, including as a result of information obtained from monitoring
or due to other factors. This SMMP will be reviewed and revised as needed, or at least every 10
years, whichever is sooner. The MPRSA provides that the SMMP shall include, but is not limited
to:
• A baseline assessment of conditions at the site;
• A program for monitoring the site;
• Special management conditions or practices to be implemented at each site that are
necessary for the protection of the environment;
• Consideration of the quantity of the material to be disposed of at the site and the
presence, nature, and bioavailability of contaminants in the material;
• Consideration of the anticipated long-term use of the site including the anticipated
closure of the site, if applicable, and any need for continued management after closure
of the site; and
• A schedule for review and revision of the plan (which shall be reviewed and revised at
least every 10 years).
The provisions in this SMMP apply for all dredged material disposal activities at the Savannah
ODMDS including monitoring and management activities by the federal agencies. This SMMP
also includes template provisions for USACE to include in future permits issued for disposal at
this site (Appendix B) as well as USACE template contract conditions (Appendix C). References
in this SMMP to matters that "should be required" refer to implementation in a subsequent
proceeding to authorize disposal of dredged material, whether in a permit, in a contract or
other federal project specification for the transportation and disposal of dredged material, or
by USACE directly. Other than the regulatory text copied below, this SMMP does not itself
impose binding requirements or obligations, though terms and conditions from the SMMP will
be incorporated into other documents (e.g., permits and federal project documents that
authorize transportation and disposal of dredged material at the ODMDS) that will then impose
binding rights and obligations on persons responsible for the authorized transportation and
disposal.
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
7
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
Matters that "should be required" are implemented through application of the template
language included in Appendices B and C, though the language may vary from the terms of the
Appendices as necessary and appropriate. If the translation of template terms by USACE
warrants further clarification, the EPA can ensure implementation of the template provisions in
Appendix B and C as necessary through the EPA's concurrence actions.
1.1 Roles and Responsibilities
The EPA and USACE work together to implement the site monitoring program for the Savannah
ODMDS. Specific responsibilities of the EPA and USACE are as follows:
EPA: The EPA is responsible for designating, modifying, and de-designating/cancelling
ODMDSs under MPRSA section 102, managing these sites by regulating site use,
developing and implementing site monitoring programs (including compliance
monitoring), evaluating environmental effects of disposal of dredged material at the
sites, reviewing for concurrence on dredged material suitability determinations, and
reviewing for compliance with the MPRSA criteria, conditions, and restrictions for
MPRSA section 103 permits or federal projects authorizing the ocean dumping of
dredged material.
Under MPRSA sections 1411 and 1415(a), the EPA has broad authority to assess civil
penalties and seek injunctive remedies for unauthorized transport of material for the
purpose of dumping it into ocean waters, including deviations from transportation-
related and disposal-related conditions required by a regulation establishing the ODMDS
or deviations from transportation-related and disposal-related conduct required or
authorized by USACE in a permit or (in the case of Federal projects) the terms of the
contract documents.
USACE: USACE is responsible for evaluating dredged material suitability and compliance with
the MPRSA criteria, conditions, and restrictions, issuing MPRSA section 103 permits and
project authorizations, and, in conjunction with the EPA, regulating site use and
developing and implementing site monitoring programs (including compliance
monitoring) through development and use of the SMMP. USACE also has a contract
remedy process to enforce conditions related to ocean disposal with a contractor for a
federal project. USACE contract remedies are separate and distinct from statutory
remedies under the MPRSA. If supplemental baseline information is needed related to a
specific authorized activity, it should be obtained in conjunction with the authorization
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
8
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
of that activity; this would generally be the responsibility of the permittee or USACE for
federal projects.
Both: While USACE evaluates disposal projects, and their issuance of permits or authorizations
is subject to the EPA's concurrence, development of management plans is a joint
responsibility of the EPA and USACE (MPRSA Section 103(c)(3)). Enforcement is also a
shared responsibility and depends on the nature of the violation. Determination of
baseline conditions during designation of an ODMDS is the responsibility of both the
EPA and USACE. Identifying and evaluating any impacts outside the designated site
typically is the responsibility of the EPA and USACE; permitted site users may be
required to provide information to support such determinations.
The original Savannah ODMDS SMMP was developed by an interagency team including the
USACE, Savannah District, the EPA Region 4, Georgia Department of Transportation, and
Georgia Department of Natural Resources. Other agencies, such as the U.S. Fish and Wildlife
Service (USFWS), National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS), the Bureau of Ocean Energy
Management (BOEM), and the Bureau of Safety and Environmental Enforcement (BSEE) have
been and will be asked to participate in future SMMP development where appropriate.
1.2 Definitions
Forthe purposes of this document the following definitions apply:
"Authorization document" means any permit issued pursuant to MPRSA and/or authorizations
from the Corps for the transportation and/or ocean disposal of dredged material including but
not limited to transportation-related or disposal-related conditions in contract documents
and/or specifications.
"Site user" as used here means a person utilizing a permit issued by the Corps of Engineers under
section 103 of the Act (see 33 CFR 209.120) and any person operating any federal dredging and
ocean disposal projects reviewed under section 103(e) of the Act (see 33 CFR 209.145) or under
a Dredged Material Permit as defined in 40 CFR 220.2(h).
"Disposal vessel" is any barge, scow, or self-propelled vessel (such as a hopper dredge) that
carries dredged material during transit and from which the dredged material is discharged,
typically by opening doors in the bottom of the hull or by splitting the hull.
"Transit" or "transport" to the disposal site begins as soon as dredged material loading into the
disposal vessel is completed and a towing vessel begins moving the disposal vessel to the disposal
site.
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
9
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
"Disposal Release Zone" is the area identified within the ODMDS in which dumping of dredged
material must occur in order for it to stay within the boundaries of the site, within which the
disposal vessel must discharge all of the dredged material.
"Towing vessel" is any self-propelled tug or other marine vessel used to transport (tow or push)
the "disposal vessel" for any portion of the transit to the ODMDS.
2 SITE DESCRIPTION
The following sections 2.1 through 2.5 are a summary of site-specific information used in the
development of this SMMP.
2.1 Site History and Designation
The existing Savannah ODMDS has been used since 1965. The EPA published the Final
Environmental Impact Statement for site designation in 1983. On 3 August 1987, the EPA
designated the Savannah ODMDS as an approved ocean dumping site (40 CFR 228.15(h)(6)).
This SMMP specifically addresses the disposal of dredged material into the Savannah ODMDS.
The plan includes past monitoring results and complies with provisions of the Water Resources
Development Act of 1992 (WRDA 92) and the Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) between the
EPA and USACE (EPA and USACE, 2017).
The original SMMP was included in the Savannah Harbor Long Term Management Strategy
(LTMS), August 1996 (Record of Decision signed February 1997). That SMMP was superseded by
a revision signed in December 2013. This current revision to the Savannah ODMDS SMMP
supersedes all prior SMMPs. Upon issuance of this revised SMMP, the SMMP provisions provide
the framework for future site monitoring and management as required by MPRSA. All section
103 (MPRSA) ocean disposal permits, or contract specifications will be conditioned as necessary
to assure consistency with the SMMP.
2.1.1 Final Rule Text from 40 CFR 228.15(h)(6)
The official Savannah ODMDS designation is published at 40 CFR 228.15(h)(6).
Savannah, GA Dredged Material Disposal Site.
(i) Location: 31°55'53" N, 80°44'20" W; 31°57'55" N, 80°46'48" W; 31°57'55" N, 80°44'20"
W; 31°55'53" N, 80°46'48" W (NAD27).
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
10
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
(ii) Size: 4.26 square nautical miles.
(iii) Depth: Averages 11.4 meters.
(iv) Primary use: Dredged material.
(v) Period of use: Continuing use.
(vi) Restriction: Disposal shall be limited to dredged material from the Savannah Harbor
area.
2.2 Site Location
The Savannah ODMDS encompasses an area of 4.26 square nautical miles (NM) (approximately
2.0 by 2.1 NM) and is located about 3.7 NM east of the coastline and about 0.25 NM south of
the navigation channel (Figure 1). Water depths within the ODMDS vary between
approximately 22 and 48 feet MLW. The site is roughly 3,500 acres. The corner coordinates are
identified in Table 1.
Table 1. Savannah ODMDS Comer Coordinates (NAD83)
Vertex
Geographic
State Plane (Georgia East, Zone 1001)
Latitude (North)
Longitude (West)
Northing
Easting
North
31?55.8964'N
80?44.323 l'W
705457.31N
1099158.36E
East
31?57.9297'N
80?46.7898'W
717620.18N
1086244.89E
South
31?57.9297'N
80?44.323 l'W
717786.02N
1098995.35E
West
31?55.8964'N
80?46.7898'W
705291.58N
1086403.23E
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
11
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
Atlantic Ocean
10+000
¦20+000
•30+000
Tybee
Island
¦40+000
50+000
¦60+000
•70+000
80+000
90+000
ODMDS
US Army Corps
of Engineers®
Savannah District
Figure 1. Savannah ODMDS location map.
US EPA Region 4
USAGE Savannah District
12
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
2.3 Site Use
Between 1976 and 2023, over 46 million cubic yards (cy) of dredged material has been placed in
Savannah's ODMDS. Annual quantities from the last 10 years are listed in Table 2 and can also
be found in the Ocean Disposal Database maintained by the USACE
(https://odd.el.erdc.dren.mil); see Appendix E for volumes disposed in Savannah's ODMDS
between 1976 through 2012.
Recent activity includes material from both annual operations and maintenance (O&M) and a
major new work dredging event as part of the Savannah Harbor Expansion Project (SHEP),
completed in March 2022. The SHEP authorized deepening and widening the inner harbor and
deepening and extending the entrance channel. The entrance channel portion of the project
was completed in Mach 2018.
Table 2. Yearly record of dredged material disposal in the Savannah ODMDS from 2013 through
2023 (see Appendix E for 1976 - 2012)
Year
O&M
New Work (SHEP)
2013
129,839
None
2014
581,306
None
2015
953,398
None
2016
249,565
2,012,731
2017
652,814
6,503,198
2018
589,910
1,996,277
2019
525,166
None
2020
695,624
None
2021
None
None
2022
419,342
None
2023
489,686
None
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
13
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
In the foreseeable future, the Savannah ODMDS will be used primarily for the disposal of
material dredged from the Savannah Harbor Navigation Project, including both O&M and
construction (new work). The primary user of the Savannah ODMDS is the USACE for Civil
Works. No private applicants are expected.
Using bathymetry surveys after O&M dredging was completed in February 2023 and based on
available fill volume to a maximum depth of-25 feet MLLW, Savannah District estimated
remaining ODMDS capacity to be 55,000,000 cy. Savannah ODMDS 2023 bathymetry is shown
in Figure 2.
Future O&M volumes and rates of disposal are difficult to predict due to the recent deepening
and uncertainties in funding availability. However, incorporating only O&M dredging events and
recent funding trends since 2015*, future yearly O&M disposal volumes from Savannah
Harbor's entrance channel can expect to be approximately 600,000 cy. Some future disposal
volumes may be higher with continued increases in appropriations from the Harbor
Maintenance Trust Fund, and the need to maintain the newly constructed channel extension,
which has not yet required dredging since its completion in 2018.
*Recent legislation, such as the Water Resources Reform and Development Act of 2014, and
the Water Resources Development Act of 2020, have authorized incrementally higher
appropriations from the Harbor Maintenance Trust Fund, which serves as a source of
revenue for maintaining shipping channels.
The disposition of any beach compatible sand from future projects will be determined during
state and local permitting activities for any such projects. Disposal of coarser material, such as
rubble, should be coordinated during the applicable permitting activities. The USACE and the
EPA will work to promote possible beneficial uses of the material, to the maximum extent
practicable.
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
14
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
Oft 1000ft 2000ft 3000ft 4000ft
Figure 2. Savannah ODMDS 2023 bathymetry.
2.4 Past Monitoring Activities
Baseline assessments and monitoring provide an important record of changes or impacts that
have occurred during the use of the site. Bathymetric surveys may be conducted before and
after each disposal event. Other monitoring activities completed at Savannah ODMDS are
outlined in Table 3. Data collected during these surveys are used to inform future monitoring
activities and site disposal activity.
US EPA Region 4
USAGE Savannah District
15
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
Disposal has occurred at the present site since 1965 and predates any data gathering at the
site. Therefore, no true baseline information has or can be collected. The results of
investigations presented in the EPA's 1987 site designation EIS and subsequent surveys listed in
Table 3 will serve as the main body of data for the monitoring of the impacts associated with
the use of the Savannah ODMDS.
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
16
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
Table 3. Surveys and Studies Conducted at the Savannah ODMDS
November 2023
Survey/Study Title
Conducted By
Date
Purpose
Results
Ecological Evaluation of
Discharged Dredged
Material (Section 103
Sediment Evaluation)
Interstate
Electronics
Corporation
March &
December
1979
Collect and evaluate environmental data
to assess effects of dredged material
disposal on marine environs
No significant differences in trace metal
concentration, water or sediment chemistry,
macrophaunal trophic composition were observed
at stations within and outside the ODMDS
An Environmental
Study of the Savannah
Harbor Ocean Disposal
Site
University of
Georgia
(Gillespie et al.)
October 1987
(revised May
1988)
Environmental assessment including the
collection of macroepifauna sediment,
water chemistry and bathymetry within
and outside of the site
Little difference among sediments, total
suspended solids, or trawled macroepifauna
sampled within and outside of the ODMDS
Section 103 Sediment
Evaluation
Skidaway
Institute of
Oceanography
1992
To determine suitability O&M dredged
sediment for ocean disposal
Sediment was suitable for disposal in ODMDS
Section 103 Sediment
Evaluation
Applied
Technology and
Management, Inc
lanuary 1998
To determine suitability of new work bar
channel sediment for ocean disposal
Sediment was suitable for disposal in the
ODMDS
Savannah Harbor O&M
Section 103 Sediment
Evaluation
ENSR, International
August 2003
To determine suitability of inner harbor
and bar channel O&M sediment for ocean
disposal
Sediment was suitable for disposal in the ODMDS
Status and Trends
Report
EPA Region 4
May 2006
Assess status of benthos and water
column within and adjacent to
ODMDS
No significant differences found based on an overall
assessment of site biotic and physical characteristics
Sidescan Sonar Survey
EPA Region 4
April 2009
Evaluate site for natural resources or
obstructions
No significant hard bottoms present on the
seafloor within the ODMDS that should be
avoided by future disposal activities
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
17
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
Survey/Study Title
Conducted By
Date
Purpose
Results
Savannah Harbor
Navigation Project
Section 103 Sediment
Evaluation
ANAMAR
July 2010
To determine suitability of bar channel
O&M sediment for ocean disposal
Sediment was suitable for disposal in the ODMDS
Savannah Harbor
Expansion Project Section
103 Sediment Evaluation
EA Engineering,
Science, and
Technology, Inc.
2012
To determine suitability of new work
sediment for ocean disposal
Sediment was suitable for disposal in the
ODMDS except for two reaches which may be
disposed of in a confined disposal area
Wave and Current Survey
USACE - Engineering
Research and
Development Center
April 2013
Calibration/Verification of numerical wave
and hydrodynamic models
Currents are predominately northwest and east
southeast and rarely exceed 1 foot per second
Savannah ODMDS Pre-
SHEP Sediment Profile
Imaging Survey
EPA Region 4
2014
To establish a pre-SHEP baseline of
benthic habitat conditions at the Savannah
ODMDS
Dredged material was not observed outside the
ODMDS. Sediment onsite contained very little
fines or organic content.
Trends survey
EPA Region 4
March 2019
Assess status of benthos and water
column within and adjacent to ODMDS
No significant differences found
Section 103 Sediment
Evaluation
ANAMAR
Environmental
Consulting, Inc.
March 2020
To determine suitability of O&M dredged
sediment for ocean disposal
Sediment was suitable for disposal in ODMDS
Bathymetric Survey
USACE
Before and
After Event
Monitor bathymetry changes
Natural shallow features exist in the northwest
corner and southern portion of the ODMDS.
Mounding has occurred in the western portion
of the ODMDS. The deepest portions of the
ODMDS remain to the south.
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
18
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
Survey/Study Title
Conducted By
Date
Purpose
Results
Disposal Monitoring
USACE
During each
Event
Compliance
Disposal has been occurring within the OMDDS
boundaries
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
19
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
2.5 Site Characterization
2.5.1 Physical Characterization
The Savannah ODMDS experiences variable nearshore current velocities, depending on river
discharges and tidal-, wind-, and wave-driven currents (Oertel, 1979). Storms from the
northeast are common in fall and infrequent during spring and summer. The predominant
longshore current movement is to the southwest.
The Site Monitoring Assessment Report for the Savannah, GA ODMDS Trends Assessment
Survey (March 2019) describe sediments throughout the ODMDS and surrounding area to be
primarily sand. Sediment texture at stations inside the ODMDS averaged 98% sand, while
sediment texture at stations outside the ODMDS averaged 94% sand; all stations outside the
ODMDS except for one (81% sand and 19% silt + clay) had a sand fraction >90%.
2.5.2 Chemical Characterization
The EPA's 2019 Trends Assessment Survey collected sediments at 12 stations to assess
sediment chemistry, including analysis for PCBs, pesticides, semi-volatile organics (SVOAs),
metals, total organic carbon, and total solids. Survey results showed all contaminants were
significantly below all environmental thresholds (TEL and ERL). Analytes were all at or below the
level of detection, with the exception of the following metals: arsenic, aluminum, cadmium,
chromium, copper, iron, lead, nickel, selenium, and zinc.
Water column analyses during the 2019 survey showed a homogenous water column between
the surface and 1 meter from the bottom for dissolved oxygen, salinity, and temperature. The
parameters are well within expected values for this nearshore, shallow environment. No
impacts due to dredged material disposal were present in the water column.
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
20
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
2.5.3 Biological Characterization
At the current time, no nearby biological resources have been identified that are of concern for
potential impact and, at the time of designation, no known hard-bottom areas were within
close proximity to ODMDS boundaries. Monitoring will be ongoing because changes in
sediment composition may alter the benthic community structure. The EPA's 2019 survey
identified higher biomass and richness of infauna outside of the ODMDS than inside, but the
difference was not significant. Taxa diversity was similar inside and outside the site. Trend
comparisons to prior survey data from 2006 showed no difference between the two surveys
(i.e., density, diversity, and richness). Based on these benthic studies, it is unlikely that
permanent or long-term adverse impacts will result due to changes in sediment composition.
3 SITE MANAGEMENT
Appropriate management of an ODMDS assures that disposal activities do not unreasonably
degrade or endanger human health, welfare, the marine environment, or economic
potentialities (MPRSA section 103(a)). The primary objectives for management of an ODMDS
include, but are not limited to:
• Protecting the marine environment, such that:
o No unacceptable physical, chemical, or biological impacts occur inside or outside the
disposal site; and
o Adequate site monitoring is conducted to detect environmental impacts.
• Ensuring that disposed material (1) meets the suitability requirements of the ocean
dumping regulations (40 CFR Parts 220 through 228) and (2) is consistent with national and
regional guidance for the evaluation of dredged material proposed for ocean dumping.
o Under MPRSA section 103, evaluation of any proposed dumping of dredged material
into ocean waters must apply the EPA's ocean dumping criteria. To apply the
criteria, the Ocean Testing Manual, sometimes referred to as the Green Book
(EPA/USACE, 1991), and the Southeast Regional Implementation Manual (SERIM;
EPA/USACE, 2008) provide guidance for sampling, testing, and analysis of water,
sediment, and biological tissue to evaluate the environmental acceptability of
dredged material proposed for ocean disposal. The criteria prohibit the ocean
dumping of uncharacterized materials (40 CFR 227.5©).
• Identifying management conditions to be implemented by the EPA and USACE, as well as
conditions that should be required in permits and documents establishing the terms of a
federal project applicable to transportation and dumping in ocean waters.
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
21
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
o For federal projects, the EPA should specify in the MPRSA concurrence letters that
the EPA's concurrence itself is conditioned on incorporation of the EPA's
concurrence conditions into any USACE federal contract documents.
• Maintaining a long-term disposal alternative for dredged material, while encouraging
beneficial use of dredged material where practicable.
• Identifying a schedule or condition triggering a review or renewal of this SMMP.
SMMP sections 3.1 through 3.8 summarize the disposal operation conditions that will be
considered for management of Savannah ODMDS as described in 40 CFR 228.15(h)(6).
Enforceable conditions for dredged material disposal operations at Savannah ODMDS are
drawn from USACE-issued permits and transportation and dumping authorization documents
for federal projects. The conditions intended to be enforceable are identified in this SMMP as
necessary under MPRSA section 103(a) or 103(e) and should be included as conditions in the
EPA's concurrence if the permit or authorization documents do not already require such
conditions.
Water Quality Compliance determinations will be made using a numerical model, such as the
Short-Term FATE (STFATE) model, for evaluation of mixing. The general goal of the model is to
increase the accuracy, reliability, and cost-effectiveness of dredged-material management
activities in a timely manner (EPA and USACE, 1991). The STFATE model input parameters listed
in Appendix A are specific to the Savannah ODMDS. This model is used to predict the
movement of dredged material disposed in open waters and may result in increasing or
lessening operational restrictions or the need for confined release zones to protect the
environment and ensure regulatory compliance. Only material determined to be suitable and in
compliance with the Ocean Dumping Criteria (40 CFR Part 227) through the verification process
by the USACE and EPA Region 4 is appropriate for transportation and disposal in the ODMDS.
The template language in Appendix B is intended to be applicable to dredging projects
permitted by USACE (federal and non-federal) as well as to USACE-authorized federal dredging
projects, regardless of whether Government owned and operated dredging equipment or
contracted equipment is used. Appendix C provides example language that USACE will use in
development of contract specifications for use of the site in federal projects, and the EPA's
concurrence should be conditioned on use of these specifications. The EPA may determine not
to include one or more of the conditions identified in Appendices B or C. The EPA may also
specify or confirm additional project-specific conditions in its concurrence and the EPA's
concurrence on the evaluation.
Conditions and reporting requirements become enforceable when and as included in the
disposal site designation regulation, in MPRSA section 103 permits, and in transportation and
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
22
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
disposal-related authorizations for federal projects, including USACE federal contract
documents or other federal project specification documents.
Violations of the MPRSA by a permittee or dredging contractor—including conditions
established in an MPRSA permit or federal project authorization—are subject to compliance
action including suspension of disposal operations or possible assessment of substantial
administrative, civil, or criminal penalties, or other injunctive remedies, as appropriate.
3.1 Ocean Dumping Criteria Compliance Process
USACE uses the ocean dumping criteria when evaluating permit requests for (and implementing
federal projects involving) the transportation of dredged material for the purpose of dumping it
into ocean waters. All disposal of dredged material in the ocean must comply with the ocean
dumping criteria, and the EPA reviews the demonstrations of compliance when reviewing
permits and projects for written concurrence, which may include conditions that must be
incorporated into the permit or project authorization documents.
In the case of federal navigation projects, USACE implements substantive MPRSA requirements
directly in USACE projects involving transportation and ocean disposal of dredged materials,
including through USACE contractors. Federal projects, though not required to have a permit,
must adhere to the same criteria, factors to be evaluated, procedures, and requirements that
apply to permits, including the process for evaluation of the project. Federal projects must
receive the EPA's concurrence prior to authorization of transportation and disposal of dredged
materials, and authorizing documents must contain any conditions included in the EPA's
concurrence. The EPA and USACE will coordinate early in the contracting process so the USACE
can incorporate any of the EPA's concurrence conditions into project authorization documents.
Dredging projects that are not federal projects involving ocean disposal of dredged material
require an ocean dumping permit issued by USACE pursuant to MPRSA section 103. A summary
of the permitting process can be found at: https://www.epa.gov/ocean-dumping/ocean-
disposal-dredged-material.
3.2 Dredged Material Characterization
Prior to any disposal of dredged material at Savannah ODMDS, the EPA and USACE must
evaluate the project applying the ocean dumping criteria (40 CFR Part 227) and USACE must
specifically authorize the disposal under MPRSA section 103. It is important that the EPA and
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
23
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
USACE agree on the sampling and analysis plan for each project prior to any sampling of
proposed dredged material.
Guidance for a process to determine the suitability of dredged material proposed for disposal at
the Savannah ODMDS is described in the Ocean Testing Manual, sometimes referred to as the
Green Book (EPA/USACE, 1991), and the Southeast Regional Implementation Manual (SERIM;
EPA/USACE, 2008).
Steps include:
1. Case-specific evaluation of proposed material against the exclusion criteria (40 CFR
227.13(b));
2. Determination of the need to test non-excluded material, taking into consideration the time
since previous testing and the potential of sediment contamination since last verification;
3. Conducting required testing to determine the suitability of the material for ocean disposal;
and
4. Review and evaluation of testing data results by USACE and the EPA to determine
suitability.
Additional reviews by stakeholders including the public, states and other federal agencies
would also be conducted through the USACE permitting or authorization processes.
Only material which USACE and the EPA have determined to be suitable and in compliance with
the Ocean Dumping Criteria (40 CFR Part 227) may be considered for transportation and
disposal in the Savannah ODMDS. No disposal activities may occur at the site until the EPA
reviews the testing data results and transmits its written concurrence that the material is
acceptable for disposal at the site.
Materials disposed in the Savannah ODMDS have historically consisted of mostly sand, with
some silts and clay. Before 2012, nearshore feeder berms located along the channel were used
frequently for disposal. Since that time, only the ODMDS has been used. Two basic sources of
sediment have been and can be expected to be disposed at the site: dredged sediment from
annual maintenance of the Savannah Harbor entrance channel and potentially new work
material. These materials consist mostly of sand with mixtures of silts and clays in varying
percentages. Sediments dredged for navigation in Savannah Harbor are derived mainly from
ocean and estuarine sources. Shoals occur where specific physical factors promote deposition
or movement of sediments. These factors may vary spatially and temporally.
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
24
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
Sediment physical, chemical, toxicological, and bioaccumulation conditions at the ODMDS and
of the dredge material to be placed in the ODMDS are described in MPRSA Section 103
Sediment Evaluation Report, Savannah Harbor Navigation Project, Chatham County, GA,
ANAMAR Environmental Consulting, Inc., March 2020, The Site Monitoring Assessment Report
for the Savannah, GA ODMDS Trends Assessment Survey, March 2019 (EPA), and briefly below.
3.3 Dredged Material Transportation and Disposal
3.3.1 Transportation of Dredged Material
No specific disposal route is required for this site.
3.3.2 Disposal Locations
The regulation at 40 CFR 227.28 requires that the release of dredged material into the ODMDS
occur at least 330 feet (100 meters) inside ODMDS boundaries. Implementation of the buffer
zone requirements ensures that the dredged material is deposited within the site boundaries
and increases the likelihood that no material will leave the site as it falls to the seabed. The EPA
and USACE may establish release zones within the site to maintain compliance with the ocean
dumping criteria in 40 CFR 227.28. Disposal authorization documents (e.g., a permit or federal
project contract term) should require that disposal be initiated within the applicable release
zone boundary and completed (i.e., doors closed) prior to leaving the ODMDS.
The capacity of the ODMDS can be preserved whenever suitable sediments can be deposited in
an approved nearshore placement area, rather than in the ODMDS. Nearshore placement of
material may occur in the future provided the sediments are determined suitable and the
placement is determined to be practicable.
3.3.3 Disposal Methods
For enforcement and compliance assurance purposes, closed doors should be defined to
require both physically closed doors and a properly functioning hull status monitor indicating
that the doors are closed. The monitoring plan and disposal authorization documents should
specify methods to prevent mounding of dredged materials from becoming an unacceptable
navigation hazard.
Dredged material shall be placed so depths will be no less than -25 feet MLLW (i.e., a clearance
will be maintained 25 feet above the bottom) where a depth of -30 feet is the warning
threshold for monitoring and management purposes. If -30 feet MLLW is reached, then
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
25
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
management decisions will be made on future sediment disposal to avoid exceeding the -25
feet MLLW threshold. To maximize capacity and monitoring efforts, disposal shall be within a
specific area within the ODMDS identified by the USACE in consultation with EPA Region 4.
To implement this provision, the USACE will coordinate with the EPA after the most recent
post-disposal project bathymetric surveys are available to identify whether any disposal
restrictions should be considered for the next sediment disposal event. Depths at the time of
disposal will be monitored to detect if adjustments of disposal methods are needed to prevent
unacceptable mounding (i.e., navigational hazards). The physical removal or leveling of material
above -25 feet MLLW are potential management alternatives should mound heights occur that
are greater than those elevations.
No specific disposal technique Is required for this site. However, the USACE requires monitoring
for sea turtles, Shortnose and Atlantic sturgeon, and North Atlantic right whales (NARW). To
protect NARW, disposal vessel (either hopper dredge, support vessel, or tug and scow) speed
and operation will be restricted in accordance with the most recent USACE South Atlantic
Division Endangered Species Act Section 7 Consultation Regional Biological Opinion for
Dredging of Material Placement Activities in the Southeast United States (SARBO). In addition,
the disposal vessel's captain should be aware of the vessel approach restrictions in 50 CFR
224.103 which at the time of this SMMP prohibits approach within 500 yards of a right whale by
vessel, aircraft, or any other means. Standard surveillance and evasive measures to protect sea
turtles and marine mammals shall also be employed during all disposal operations at the
ODMDS.
3.3.4 Disposal Times
Timing of disposal operations will be in accordance with the most recent USACE South Atlantic
Division Endangered Species Act Section 7 Consultation Regional Biological Opinion for
Dredging of Material Placement Activities in the Southeast United States (SARBO). As additional
monitoring results are compiled, should any additional restrictions appear necessary, disposal
activities will be scheduled to avoid adverse impacts.
3.3.5 Disposal Vessel Tracking
For all disposal activities at the Savannah ODMDS, site users should be required to use an
electronic tracking system (ETS), such as the Dredge Quality Management (DQM) system. An
ETS enables surveillance of the transportation and disposal of dredged material. The USACE and
the EPA maintain and operate the ETS to continuously track the horizontal location and draft
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
26
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
condition of the disposal vessel from the point of dredging or loading to the disposal site and
return to the point of dredging or loading (with accuracy ± 0.1 foot). Data shall be collected at
least every 0.25 nautical mile or every four minutes during travel to and from the ODMDS and
every 12 seconds or every 30 feet of travel within the ODMDS and while hull status is open. In
addition to the continuous tracking data, the following trip information shall be electronically
recorded for each disposal cycle:
• Load Number
• Disposal Vessel Name and Type (e.g., scow)
• Estimated volume of Load
• Description of Material Disposed
• Source of Dredged Material
• Date, Time and Location at Initiation and Completion of Disposal Event
Appendices B and C provide template language that should be used to address the requirement
to use the ETS.
Disposal monitoring should be conducted utilizing the Dredge Quality Management (DQM)
system [see http://dam.usace.army.mil/Specifications/lndex.aspx1. or equivalent acceptable
system. The USACE should provide (or require another user to provide) disposal monitoring
data to EPA Region 4 electronically on a weekly basis (and/or within one week of the disposal
event), utilizing XML format and delivered as an attachment to an email
(DisposalData.R4@epa.gov).
3.4 Disposal Permitting & Reporting
3.4.1 Permitting Process
All transportation to and disposal of dredged material in the ocean, with the exception of
federal civil works projects, requires an ocean dumping permit issued by the USACE pursuant to
section 103 of the MPRSA. A summary of the permitting process can be found on both the EPA
(https://www.epa.eov/ocean-dumpine/ocean-disposal-dredeed-material) and USACE websites
(https://www.sas.usace.armv.mil/Missions/Reeulatory/Permittine/).
3.4.2 Information Management of Dredged Material Disposal Activities
As discussed in the following sections, a substantial amount of diverse data regarding use of the
Savannah ODMDS and effects of disposal is required from many sources. If this information is
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
27
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
readily available and in a useable format it can be used to answer many questions typically
asked about a disposal site including:
• What is being dredged?
• How much is being dredged?
• Where did the dredged material come from?
• Where was the dredged material placed?
• Was dredged material dredged correctly? Disposed correctly?
• What will happen to the environment at the disposal site?
To streamline data sharing, EPA Region 4 and the USACE South Atlantic Division have agreed on
an extensible Markup Language (XML) standard for sharing of disposal monitoring data (see
also section 4.4). Additional standards will continue to be investigated for sharing of other
disposal site related information (e.g., environmental monitoring data, testing data, etc.).
3.4.3 Post Disposal Summary Reports
The USACE shall provide a Post Disposal Summary Report to the EPA within 90 days after
project completion.
Necessary report elements include: dredging project title; permit number and expiration date
(if applicable); contract number; name of contractor(s) conducting the work, name and type of
vessel(s) disposing material in the ODMDS; disposal time from each vessel; volume disposed at
the ODMDS (as paid in situ volume, total paid and un paid in situ volume, and gross volume
reported by dredging contractor), number of loads to ODMDS, type of material disposed at the
ODMDS; identification by load number of any misplaced material; dates of pre and post
disposal bathymetric surveys of the ODMDS and a narrative discussing any violation(s) of the
103 concurrence and/or permit (if applicable).
The narrative should include a description of any violation(s), indicate the time it occurred and
when it was reported to the EPA and the USACE, discuss the circumstances surrounding the
violation(s), and identify specific measures taken to prevent reoccurrence.
The Post Disposal Summary Report must be accompanied by the bathymetry survey results
(plot and X, Y, Z ASCII data file, optionally a GIS shapefile), a summary scatter plot of all disposal
start locations, and a summary table of the trip information required by section 3.2 with the
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
28
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
exception of the disposal completion data. If all data is provided in the required XML format,
scatter plots and summary tables will not be necessary.
3.4.4 Project Initiation and Violation Reporting Requirements
The USACE or other site user should notify the EPA 15 days prior to the beginning of a dredging
cycle or project disposal.
EPA Region 4 and the USACE Savannah District require notification by email within 24 hours if
disposal occurs outside of the specified disposal release zone, if excessive leakage occurs, if hull
open status occurs outside the ODMDS, or other violation of the conditions in the authorization
documents and/or Dredged Material Permit occur. Excessive leakage is defined as more than
1.5 feet of draft loss during transit to the ODMDS averaged between forward and aft sensors.
Correspondence will be required to explain how the issue was addressed, pertinent dates, and
corrective actions to be implemented to prevent repetition in the future.
4 SITE MONITORING
Site monitoring is conducted to ensure the environmental integrity of a disposal site and the
areas surrounding the site as well as to verify compliance with the site designation criteria; any
special management conditions; and permit, contract, or federal project authorization
document requirements. Monitoring programs should be flexible, cost effective, and based on
scientifically sound procedures and methods to meet site-specific monitoring needs. Tiered
approaches to monitoring should be used where specific management actions or additional
monitoring activities may be triggered when unacceptable environmental conditions are
recorded.
Specific goals of the monitoring program are to provide the following:
1. Information indicating whether the disposal activities are occurringin compliance with
the permit (or Federal project authorization documents) and site restrictions;
2. Information on the short-term and long-term fate of materials disposed of in the marine
environment; and,
3. Information concerning the short-term and long-term environmental impacts of
disposal activities.
The site monitoring program describes the monitoring actions that should be taken if issues are
found during routine trend assessment monitoring or any other means. A tiered strategy for a
monitoring program is used to ensure that more advanced monitoring activities are used only
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
29
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
when necessary. With a tiered approach, an unacceptable environmental condition may trigger
further and often more complex monitoring and/or changes to the management of the site.
Data collected during site monitoring should be used to adjust site management and/or revise
the SMMP.
A monitoring program should be structured to address specific questions (i.e., hypotheses) and
measure key indicators and endpoints, particularly those defined during site designation or
specific project-related issues that arise. Multi-year trend analyses are outlined in the Ocean
Dumping Regulations at 40 CFR 228.13; these analyses should be used to determine whether
there are consistent changes from previous site conditions or baseline conditions. At a
minimum, a Trend Assessment Study should be conducted at least once every 10 years and
should be used to revise the SMMP. Results from these surveys should be used to assess the
need for additional targeted or more complex studies.
The monitoring program for the Savannah ODMDS is designed to address the following
questions:
• What are the short- and long-term fates of the material disposed at the site?
This would include considerations such as:
o Does disposed dredged material remain within the site boundaries or leave the site?
o If any disposed material leaves the site, where does it go? Does it move toward
sensitive areas such as marine sanctuaries or productive fisheries?
o Does disposed material create mounds within the site or result in a dispersed layer
on the sea bottom?
o Is there a potential for interference with navigation due to mounding of disposed
material?
o Was any material dumped outside of the site boundaries?
• What are the short- and long-term environmental impacts of the disposal of material at the
site?
This would include considerations such as:
o Has the benthic community structure changed due to disposal activities?
o Is there an absence of pollution-sensitive biota at the site?
o Are there progressive, non-seasonal changes in water quality, sediment
composition, or numbers of pelagic, demersal, or benthic biota at or near the
disposal site?
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
30
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
o Has there been an increase in contaminant levels in the sediments or biota at or
near the site?
o Are there any other impacts detected inside or outside the site boundaries?
Sections 4.1 and 4.2 below describe the monitoring strategy at the site to address these and
other questions and also summarize the management actions that should be considered by the
EPA, in coordination with USACE, if thresholds are exceeded.
4.1 Monitoring the Transportation, Disposal, and Fate of Disposed Materials
Monitoring the transportation and disposal process is necessary to confirm that the disposal
activities comply with all permit conditions and site restrictions.
Monitoring the location and movement of disposed material at the site should be used to ensure that
disposed material remains within the designated site boundaries to determine that any accumulation of
disposed material does not pose a navigational hazard in the area, and to confirm that future site use
will not exceed the site's capacity. The monitoring activities used to achieve each of these management
goals are summarized in Table 4 below.
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
31
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP November 2023
Table 4. Savannah ODMDS Monitoring Strategies and Thresholds for Action
Goal
Technique
Sponsor
Rationale
Frequency
Threshold for Action
Management Option 1:
Threshold Not Exceeded
Management Option 2:
Threshold Exceeded
Monitor
Bathymetric
Trends
Bathymetry
Site User
Determine the extent
of the disposal mound
and major
bathymetric changes
Post Disposal
Disposal mound occurs
outside ODMDS boundaries
Continue monitoring
Modify disposal
method or location;
Restrict disposal
volumes
Benthic
Effects
Monitoring &
Trend
Assessment
(40 CFR
228.13)
A. Sediment
Profile
Imaging
B. Benthic
Survey
EPA
A. Determine aerial
influence of
dredged material
B. Determine impact
of dredged
material on
benthic
community
Every 10 years
or following
major disposal
event
Communities under the
influence of dredged
material outside the site
have significant differences
in diversity/ richness/
biomass from those not
under dredged material
influence after one-year
recovery period
Discontinue monitoring
unless disposal
quantities, type of
material, or frequency of
use significantly changes
Restrict disposal
volumes to prevent
impacts outside
boundaries;
Create berms to retard
dredged material
movement;
Cease site use
Short & Long-
Term Fate of
Disposed
Dredged
Material
- Modeling
- Erosional
Analysis
USACE
Determine
dispersiveness of site
and aerial extent of
impact
Prior to any
major project
Aerial extent of impact
reaches resources of
concern and /or increases
over time
Continue to use site
based on current
thresholds/ restrictions
Restrict disposal
volumes;
Create berms to retard
dredged material
transport;
Cease site
use/designate new site
US EPA Region 4
USACE, Savannah District
32
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
Goal
Technique
Sponsor
Rationale
Frequency
Threshold for Action
Management
Option 1:
Threshold
Not
Exceeded
Management Option 2:
Threshold Exceeded
Site Capacity
Information
from Long-
Term Fate
USACE/
EPA/Site
Users
Determine
dispersiveness of
site and long and
short-term
capacity
Prior to any
major project
New work and/or maintenance
volumes exceed estimated
capacity
Continue to use
site based on
current
thresholds/rest
rictions
Enlarge site or designate new
site
Ensure Safe
Navigation
Depth
Bathymetry
Site User
Determine height
of mound and any
excessive
mounding
Post disposal
A. Mound height > -30 feet
MLLW
B. Mound height > -25 feet
MLLW
Continue
monitoring
A. (1) Modify disposal method
or location and
(2) Restrict disposal
volumes
B. (1) Halt disposal and
(2) Physically level material
Compliance
Disposal Site
User Records
Site User
Ensure
management
requirements are
being met
To assist in site
monitoring
Daily during
the project
A. Disposal records required
by SMMP are not
submitted or are
incomplete
B. Review of records
indicated a dump occurred
outside ODMDS
boundaries
C. Review of records
indicated a dump occurred
outside of ODMDS target
area
Continue
monitoring
A. Restrict site user until
requirements are met
B. Notify EPA Region 4/USACE,
and investigate why
egregious dump(s) occurred
C. EPA may take appropriate
enforcement action
D. Direct disposal to occur as
specified
US EPA Region 4
USACE, Savannah District
33
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
4.1.1 Post-Disposal Monitoring Requirements
The USACE, or other site user, should be required to conduct a bathymetric survey consistent
with the pre-disposal survey requirements within 30 days after disposal project completion,
unless a deviation is coordinated with the EPA. Surveys will not be required for projects less
than 100,000 cy, except on a case-by-case basis. Surveys will conform to the minimum
performance standards for USACE Hydrographic Surveys for "Other General Surveys & Studies"
as described in the USACE Engineering Manual. EM1110-2-1003, Hydrographic Surveying, dated
November 30, 2013 [http://publications.usace.army.mil/publications/eng-manuals/EM 1110-
2-1003 pfl/toc.html. The number and length of transects required will be sufficient to
encompass the ODMDS and a 500-foot-wide area around the site. In coordination with the EPA,
the Savannah District may reduce the survey area on a case-by-case basis if disposal zones are
specified and adhered to. The surveys will be taken along lines spaced at 500-foot intervals or
less. The minimum performance standards from Table 3-1 in Hydrographic Surveying shall be
followed. Horizontal location of the survey lines and depth sounding points will be determined
by an automated positioning system utilizing Global Positioning System with Real Time
Kinematic Correction (RTK). The vertical datum will be referenced to prescribed NOAA MLLW
datum, 1983-2001 epoch, as shown on the Tidal Benchmark sheet for Fort Pulaski, GA (Station
ID: 8670870). MLLW is 4.05 feet below NAVD88. The horizontal datum will be Georgia State
Plane (zone 1001 GA East, NAD 1983).
Bathymetric surveys should be utilized to monitor the disposal release zone to ensure a
navigation hazard is not produced, to assist in verification of material disposal location, to
monitor bathymetry changes and trends, and to ensure that the site capacity is not exceeded,
i.e., the dredged sediment does not exceed the site boundaries on disposal. Copies of these
surveys shall be provided to EPA Region 4 when completed.
The USACE and the EPA will review the results of these surveys and determine whether more
information is needed. This need will be based on observance of any anomalies or potential
adverse impacts associated with a specific event. If the results of the bathymetric surveys do
not indicate any anomalies or adverse impacts, no additional monitoring will be required for
the disposal event.
4.2 Monitoring Environmental Effects of Disposed Material
Monitoring of impacts to the physical, chemical, and biological environment is necessary to
ensure that the transport and disposal of dredged material does not result in unreasonable
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
34
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
degradation to the marine environment or endanger human health, welfare, or economic
potentialities.
The environmental effects monitoring plan for the Savannah ODMDS summarized in Table 5
below is structured as a tiered monitoring approach; unacceptable conditions discovered
during a lower tier assessment should trigger additional testing or other management action.
USACE and the EPA periodically assess environmental conditions of the entire site and
surrounding area and consider other environmental data that may have been collected by
other entities in the area; this information is then used to assess overall site conditions and to
conduct trend assessments. Enhanced environmental effects monitoring should be triggered if
disposed material is found to have unexpectedly left the site or is observed in unexpected
locations during the transportation, disposal, and fate monitoring activities described in section
4.1.1. Any monitoring at the site that identifies an issue of potential concern should trigger
additional monitoring or management actions.
Field monitoring data collected by the EPA such as material tracking, disposal effects
monitoring, and other site-specific parameters will be coordinated with and provided to SMMP
team members, federal and state agencies, and other interested parties as appropriate by the
EPA and/or the USACE. Data will be provided for all surveys in a report generated by the EPA.
The report should indicate how the survey relates to the SMMP and previous surveys at the
Savannah ODMDS and should provide data interpretations, conclusions, and recommendations,
and should project the next phase of the SMMP. Monitoring results will be summarized in
subsequent modifications to the SMMP posted to the EPA's website
(https://www.epa.eov/ocean-dumpine) and are available by request.
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
35
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP November 2023
Table5. Environmental Impacts, Monitoring Activities, and Thresholds for Action.
Frequency
Entity
Monitoring Activity
Purpose
Threshold(s) for
Management
Management Option 2:
Action
Option 1:
Threshold Exceeded
Threshold Not
Exceeded
Tier 1: Benthic Effects Monitoring & Trend Assessment (40 CFR 228.13)
Approximately
EPA
A. Sediment mapping
A. Determine aerial influence
A. Absence of
Continue
A.Conduct Tier 2 or Tier 3
every 10 years
(Gamma/ CS3)
of dredged material.
pollution-sensitive
monitoring on
Environmental Effects
B. Water and sediment
B. Periodically evaluate the
biota at the site
prescribed
Monitoring.
quality, benthic
impact of disposal on the
B. Progressive non-
schedule
B. Review dredged
community analysis
marine environment (40
seasonal changes in
material evaluation
(40 CFR 228.13)
CFR 228.9).
water or sediment
procedures and amend,
quality.
if necessary.
C. Discontinue site use.
De-designate.
Tier 2: Environmental Effects Monitoring
Implement if
EPA/
A. Chemical monitoring
A. Determine if sediment
A. Contaminants are
Discontinue
A.Conduct directed,
disposal
USACE
B. Benthic community
chemical contaminants are
found to be
specific event
specific contaminant
footprint
monitoring
significantly elevated1
elevated in dredged
monitoring.
monitoring to define
extends
within, and outside of, site
sediments.
extent of management
beyond the
boundaries.
B. Adverse changes
action required.
site
B. Determine whether there
observed outside of
B. Perform biological
boundaries or
are adverse changes in the
the site that may
testing on ODMDS
if Tier 1 Trend
benthic populations
endanger the
samples (Tier 3).
Assessment
outside of the site and
marine
C. Review and potentially
results exceed
evaluate recovery rates.
environment.
alter dredged material
established
evaluation procedures.
thresholds.
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
36
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
Frequency
Entity
Monitoring Activity
Purpose
Threshold(s) for
Management
Management Option 2:
Action
Option 1:
Threshold Exceeded
Threshold Not
Exceeded
Tier 3: Advanced Environmental Effects Monitoring
Implement if
EPA/
A. Tissue chemical
A. Determine if the site is a
A. Benthic body
Discontinue
A. Implement case-specific
Tier 2
USACE
bioaccumulation
source of adverse
burdens and risk
monitoring.
management options
Environmental
analysis
bioaccumulation which may
assessment models
(e.g., remediation, limits
Effects
B. Benthic effects
endanger the marine
indicate potential
on quantities or types of
Monitoring
monitoring
environment.
for food chain
material disposed.
exceed
B. Determine if the site is a
impacts.
B. Discontinue site use.
established
source of adverse sub-
B. Sub-lethal effects
thresholds
lethal2 changes in benthic
are unacceptable.
organisms which may
endanger the marine
environment.
1 Significantly elevated: Concentrations above the range of contaminant levels in dredged sediments that the EPA and the USACE
found to be suitable for disposal at the ODMDS based on use of the regional testing manual (SERIM).
2 Examples of sub-lethal effects include without limitation the development of lesions, tumors, development abnormality, and/or
decreased fecundity.
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
37
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP November 2023
5 SUMMARY CONDITIONS FOR USE OF THE ODMDS
Use of the Savannah ODMDS is only permitted upon the adherence to the following conditions.
5.1 Prohibition on Trash and Debris
Only dredged material determined in advance by the EPA and the USACE to be suitable for
ocean disposal may be discharged at the Savannah ODMDS. Disposal shall be limited to suitable
dredged material per the 40 CFR 228(h)(6). Uncharacterized dredged material, vessels, trash,
and other debris are prohibited from being dumped at the site.
5.2 Prohibition on Leaking or Spilling During Transport
Excessive leakage/spillage or other loss of material means an apparent loss of dredged material
greater than limits established in the most current section 103 Concurrence, section 103
permit, and/or described within the USACE contract specifications (in any event loss of dredged
material during transit to the ODMDS in open water) is not to exceed 1.5 feet. Transportation
of dredged material to the ODMDS may not begin or continue when weather and sea state
conditions interfere with safe transportation and create risk of spillage, leaks, or other loss of
dredged material during transit. Disposal vessels will not be authorized to load beyond a level
at which dredged material would be expected to be spilled in transit under anticipated sea
state conditions.
5.3 Quality Control Inspector and Scow Certification Checklist
Before any disposal vessel departs for the Savannah ODMDS, a dedicated quality control
inspector, identified and appointed by the dredging contractor, shall certify in writing that the
disposal vessel is not overloaded, and otherwise meets the conditions and requirements of a
Scow Certification Checklist that contains all substantive elements found in the example
provided in this SMMP. If an alternate version of the Scow Certification Checklist (Appendix D)
is utilized, the EPA and the USACE must approve the proposed Scow Certification Checklist prior
to the commencement of ocean disposal operations. As indicated in the USACE dredging
specifications, no ocean disposal trip may be initiated until both the towing vessel captain and
the quality control inspector have signed all relevant entries on the Scow Certification Checklist.
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
38
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
The inspector shall provide a summary of any discrepancies or inaccuracies on the Checklist in
the site user's report to the EPA and the USACE
5.4 Disposal Site Boundaries
When dredged material is discharged within the ODMDS, no portion of the vessel from which
the materials are released (e.g., hopper dredge or towed barge or scow) may be outside of the
disposal site buffer boundaries (see Figure 1). The vessel from which materials are released
should similarly be fully within the designated disposal zone, as indicated by the work contract
for each disposal event.
5.5 Closed Door Hull Status
Doors shall be in the closed state on any disposal vessel and discharges complete before exiting
the boundaries of the ODMDS (Table 1). "Closed state" means having both fully and physically
closed doors and a properly functioning hull status sensor indicating that the doors are fully
closed. In the event that doors are not closing sufficiently, the vessel operator will need to
implement a procedure to verify dredged material has been disposed of in the authorized
release zone. One such practice is to circle within the ODMDS three times before exiting. Visual
verification via remote camera is another option. All such incidents shall be reported to the
USACE and the EPA within 24 hours and the vessel in which the malfunction occurred shall be
repaired and verified as functional before returning to service.
5.6 Violation Notification
The site user shall report (refer to section 4.1.2) any anticipated, potential, or actual variances
from compliance with these ocean dumping conditions, and any additional project-specific
special conditions, to the USACE and the EPA within 24 hours of discovering such a situation. A
message from an operational "e-mail alert" system, will be considered as fulfilling this 24-hour
notification requirement when it includes the following information: description of the cause(s)
of the problems, any steps taken to rectify the problems, and whether the problems occurred
on subsequent disposal trips.
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
39
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
5.7 Additional Project-Specific Conditions
Additional project-specific conditions or modifications to the standard conditions specified
above may be required in the Dredged Material Permit if the USACE or the EPA determine
additional or more specific conditions are necessary to facilitate safe use or accurate
monitoring of the disposal site, or to prevent potential harm to the environment, including
conditions specifying the timing of operations or methods of transportation and disposal.
5.8 Alternative Permit/Project Conditions
Project-specific alternatives or modifications to the Standard and/or Project-Specific conditions
specified above may be authorized in advance by the EPA and the USACE at their discretion, at
the request of the site user. In such cases the site user must demonstrate to the satisfaction of
the EPA and the USACE that:
• The alternative conditions are sufficient to accomplish the specific intended purpose of
the original permit condition; and
• Disposal will not increase the risk of harm to the environment or the health or safety of
persons; and
• The site user will not impede monitoring of compliance with the MPRSA, regulations
promulgated under the MPRSA, or the permit or authorization issued under the MPRSA.
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
40
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
6 MODIFICATION OF THIS SMMP
November 2023
This plan is effective and available for implementation from the date of signature. The regulations
designating ODMDSs should require site users to comply with specific minimum and terms and
conditions identified in the SMMP. The EPA, in conjunction with USACE, must review and revise this
SMMP at least every 10 years, or sooner, if site use and conditions at the site indicate a need for
revision. Conditions for updating this SMMP may include but are not limited to:
• Significant changes in disposal site use (change in frequency, site expansion, de-designation,
new dredged material source location, etc.);
• Discovery of significant impacts to the physical, chemical, or biological environment during
monitoring activities; and
• Any other conditions or changes at the site or area surrounding the site that may necessitate a
review or update to the SMMP.
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
41
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
7 REFERENCES
November 2023
ANAMAR Environmental Consulting, Inc. MPRSA Section 103 Testing of Dredged Material for
Ocean Disposal, Savannah Harbor Navigation Project, Chatham County, GA, March 2020.
Barry A. Vittor & Associates, Inc. 2006. Final Report. Savannah, Georgia ODMDS Benthic Community
Assessment. Report Submitted to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 4,
Atlanta, Georgia.
Gillespie, D. M and Harding, J.L., 1987 (rev. 1988). An Environmental Study of the Savannah Harbor
Ocean Disposal Site. Marine Extension Service, University of Georgia. Contract No. DACW21-
86-C-0030.
Oertel, G.F. 1979. Depositional characteristics of sediments at a low energy ocean disposal site,
Savannah, Georgia. Pp 97-107. In: Palmer, H.D. and M.G. Gross [eds.]. Ocean Dumping and
Marine Pollution. Dowden, Hutchinson, and Ross Inc. 268pp.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Savannah District, 1996. Savannah Harbor Long Term Management
Strategy Study. Record of Decision. Chatham County, Georgia, and Jasper County, South
Carolina.
U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE). 2013. Final Marine Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act
(MPRSA) Sectionl03 Evaluation, Savannah Harbor Entrance Channel, Savannah Harbor
Expansion Project, Savannah, GA, May 2012, Revised June 2013. USACE Engineer Research
and Development Center. June 2013.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), 1983. Final Environmental Impact Statement for
Savannah, GA, Charleston, SC, and Wilmington, NC Ocean Dredged Material Disposal Sites
Designation. Prepared by EPA Criteria and Standards Division (WH-585), Washington, D.C.
20460.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), March 2019. Site Monitoring Assessment Report for
the Savannah, GA ODMDS Trends Assessment Survey. Prepared by the EPA Region 4, Atlanta,
GA.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, 1991. Evaluation of
Dredged Material Proposed for Ocean Disposal (Ocean Testing Manual), February 1991.
Prepared by Environmental Protection Agency Office of Marine and Estuarine Protection and
Department of Army United States Army Corps of Engineers under EPA Contract No. 68-C8-
0105.
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
42
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, 1996. Guidance Document
for Development of Site Management Plans for Ocean Dredged Material Disposal Sites,
February 1996. Prepared by Environmental Protection Agency Office of Water and
Department of Army United States Army Corps of Engineers.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 4 and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, South Atlantic
Division, 2017. Memorandum of Understanding Between U.S. Army Corps of Engineers,
South Atlantic Division and U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region, 4 on Ocean
Dredged Material Disposal, May 2017.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 4 and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, South Atlantic
Division, 2008. Southeast Regional Implementation Manual (SERIM) Requirements and
Procedures for Evaluation of the Ocean Disposal of Dredged Material in Southeastern
Atlantic and Gulf Coastal Waters, August 2008.
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
43
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
APPENDIX A-STFATE INPUT PARAMETERS
November 2023
SAVANNAH ODMDS WATER COLUMN EVALUATIONS NUMERICAL MODEL (STFATE)
INPUT PARAMETERS
Table Al: SITE DESCRIPTION
Parameter
Value
Units
Number of Grid Points (left to right)
48
-
Number of Grid Points (top to bottom)
48
-
Spacing Between Grid Points (left to right)
500
ft
Spacing Between Grid Points (top to bottom)
500
ft
Constant Water Depth
37
ft
Roughness Height at Bottom of Disposal Site
.0051
ft
Slope of Bottom in X-Direction
0
Deg.
Slope of Bottom in Z-Direction
0
Deg.
Number of Points in Ambient Density Profile Point2
4
-
Ambient Density at Depth = 0 ft
1.0216
g/cc
Ambient Density at Depth = 13 ft
1.0216
g/cc
Ambient Density at Depth = 23 ft
1.0227
g/cc
Ambient Density at Depth = 37 ft
1.0227
g/cc
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
44
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
Table A2: AMBIENT VELOCITY DATA
November 2023
Parameter
Value
Units
Water Depth
37
ft
Logarithmic Depth Averaged Profile3
2 Point
-
Depth at Velocity Profile
37
ft
X-Direction Velocity
0.30
ft/sec
Z-Direction Velocity
0.63
ft/sec
Table A3: DISPOSAL OPERATION DATA
Parameter
Value
Units
Location of Disposal Point from Top of Grid
9,375
ft
Location of Disposal Point from Left Edge of Grid
9,375
ft
Dumping Over Depression
0
-
Table A4: INPUT; EXECUTION AND OUTPUT
Parameter
Value
Units
Location of the Upper Left Corner of the Disposal Site -Distance from Top
Edge
3,299
ft
Location of the Upper Left Corner of the Disposal Site -Distance from Left
Edge
2,995
ft
Location of the Lower Right Corner of the Disposal Site -Distance from Top
Edge
15,451
ft
Location of the Lower Right Corner of the Disposal Site -Distance from Left
Edge
15,755
ft
Duration of Simulation
14,400
sec
Long Term Time Step
600
sec
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
45
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
Table A5: SITE COEFFICIENTS
November 2023
Parameter
Keyword
Value
Settling Coefficient
BETA
o.ooo1
Apparent Mass Coefficient
CM
1.0001
Drag Coefficient
CD
0.5001
Form Drag for Collapsing Cloud
CD RAG
1.0001
Skin Friction for Collapsing Cloud
CFRIC
0.0101
Drag for an Ellipsoidal Wedge
CD3
0.1001
Drag for a Plate
CD4
1.0001
Friction Between Cloud and Bottom
FRICTN
0.0101
4/3 Law Horizontal Diffusion Dissipation
Factor
ALAMDA
0.0011
Unstratified Water Vertical Diffusion
Coefficient
AKYO
Pritchard Expression
Cloud/Ambient Density Gradient Ratio
GAMA
0.2501
Turbulent Thermal Entrainment
ALPHAO
0.2351
Entrainment in Collapse
ALPHAC
0.1001
Stripping Factor
CSTRIP
0.0031
1 Model Default Value
2 EPA 2006 Savannah ODMDS Trend Assessment Survey (EPA, 2007)
3 From 2013 Savannah Harbor Expansion Project MPRSA Section 103 Evaluation ADCIRC Model.
Dilution Rates for Generic Material (6.000cy)
Minimum dilution outside of disposal site: 182 to 1; Minimum dilution after 4 hours: 580 to 1.
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
46
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
Savannah ODMDS STFATE
Input Parameters
t
N
Savannah ODMDS
Model Grid
48 X48
@500ft/grid
X=3,299ft
Z=2,995ft
Disposal Location
X=9,375ft
Z=9,375ft
X
* Vx- 0.30fps
Vz= 0.63fps
X=15,45 lft
Z=15,755ft
z+
US EPA Region 4
USAGE Savannah District
47
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
Table A6: Savannah ODMDS Background Water Concentration
November 2023
Chemicals of Concern
Background Concentration Levels (ng/l)
Arsenic
1.49 1
Cadmium
0.011
Chromium (VI)
0.29 1
Copper
0.241
Lead
0.081
Mercury
0.11A
Nickel
0.25 1
Selenium
0.20 1
Silver
0.011-4
Zinc
l.ll1
Ammonia
No Data
Cyanide
No Data
Tributyltin (TBT)
0.0134
Aldrin
0.005 14
Chlordane
0.015 24
DDT
0.005 14
Dieldrin
0.005 14
alpha - Endosulfan
0.005 14
beta - Endosulfan
0.005 14
Endrin
0.005 14
gamma-BHC (Lindane)
0.005 14
Heptachlor
0.005 14
Heptachlor Epoxide
0.005 14
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
48
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
Toxaphene
0.25 1A
Parathion
No Data
Pentachlorophenol
No Data
1 2010 Site Designation Studies for a New ODMDS offshore Jacksonville, FL
2 Savannah ODMDS Status and Trends May 2006
3 Reference Station Water from the 2006 Mayport Harbor 103 Evaluation
4 Analyte not detected. Value based on one half the reporting limit.
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
49
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP November 2023
APPENDIX B -TEMPLATE GENERIC SPECIAL CONDITIONS FOR
MPRSA SECTION 103 PERMITS
Template Language For Generic Special Conditions For
lion ' ¦ • , ' >
MPRSA section 102(c)(3) directs the EPA in conjunction with USACE to develop a site management
and monitoring plan (SMMP) for dredged material disposal sites; such plans are implemented
through MPRSA permits issued by USACE or through federal projects subject to the same criteria,
evaluation factors, procedures, and requirements as permits (including through terms and
conditions in contracts for Federal projects).
The EPA in conjunction with USACE developed the template language below for inclusion in permits,
though the template language is intended to be included on a case-by-case basis. Neither the
SMMP nor this Appendix directly impose requirements specific to a permitted activity. Instead, the
SMMP and this Appendix recommend conditions that USACE should impose and, if not, that the EPA
should require in concurring on the permit. The regulation designating an ODMDS also may impose
conditions on a permittee directly. The terms of any particular permit incorporating the language
from this Appendix (including as modified) would impose requirements specific to the permitted
activity. USACE is not obligated to impose any particular permit term based on the template
language, though USACE may elect to do so; the language is provided to facilitate USACE permit
development and to provide notice to third parties. For any future permit, the EPA's concurrence
review would confirm that appropriate terms are included to assure adequate implementation of
the SMMP, and the EPA would consider this Appendix to guide its review. The EPA may condition its
concurrence on compliance with specified terms and conditions derived from this Appendix, or
other terms and conditions deemed appropriate to implement this SMMP or the MPRSA, and in
such cases USACE must include in the permit the terms and conditions specified by the EPA.
DISPOSAL OPERATIONS
A. For this permit, the term disposal operations shall mean: navigation of any vessel used in
disposal of operations, transportation of dredged material from the dredging site to the
Savannah ODMDS, proper disposal of dredged material at the disposal area within the
Savannah ODMDS, and transportation of the hopper dredge or disposal barge or scow back
to the dredging site.
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
50
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
B. The Savannah ODMDS is defined as the square with center coordinates of 31°56.9'N latitude
and 80°45.5667 longitude (NAD 83) or state plane (Georgia East, Zone 1001) coordinates
711458.33 ft N and 1092648.52 ft E (NAD 83). The site corner coordinates are as follows:
Table Bl: Savannah ODMDS corner coordinates (NAD 83).
Vertices
Geographic
State Plane
(Georgia East, Zone 1001)
Latitude
(North)
Longitude
(West)
Easting
Northing
NE
31555.8964'N
80244.3231'W
705457.31N
1099158.36E
NW
31557.9297'N
80546.7898'W
717620.18N
1086244.89E
SW
31557.9297'N
80244.3231'W
717786.02N
1098995.35E
SE
31555.8964'N
80246.7898'W
705291.58N
1086403.23E
C. No more than [NUMBER] cubic yards of dredged material excavated at the location defined
in [REFERENCE LOCATION IN PERMIT] are authorized for disposal at the Savannah ODMDS.
D. The permittee shall use an electronic positioning system to navigate to and from the
Savannah ODMDS. For this section of the permit, the electronic positioning system is defined
as: a differential global positioning system or a microwave line of site system. Use of LORAN-
C alone is not an acceptable electronic positioning system for disposal operations at the
Savannah ODMDS. If the electronic positioning system fails or navigation problems are
detected, all disposal operations shall cease until the failure or navigation problems are
corrected.
E. The permittee shall certify the accuracy of the electronic positioning system proposed for
use during disposal operations at the Savannah ODMDS. The certification shall be
accomplished by direct comparison of the electronic positioning system's accuracy with a
known fixed point.
F. Before any disposal vessel departs for the Savannah ODMDS, a dedicated quality control
inspector shall certify in writing that the disposal vessel is not overloaded, and otherwise
meets the conditions and requirements of a Scow Certification Checklist that contains all of
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
51
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
the substantive elements found in the example provided in this SMMP in Appendix D. If an
alternate version of the Scow Certification Checklist (Appendix D) is utilized, the EPA and the
USACE must approve the proposed Scow Certification Checklist prior to the commencement
of ocean disposal operations. No ocean disposal trip may be initiated until both the towing
vessel captain and the quality control inspector have signed all relevant entries on the Scow
Certification Checklist. The inspector shall provide a summary of any discrepancies or
inaccuracies on the Checklist in the site user's report to the EPA and the USACE.
G. The permittee shall not allow any water or dredged material placed in a hopper dredge or
disposal barge or scow to flow over the sides or leak from such vessels during transportation
to the Savannah ODMDS. Excessive leakage/spillage or other loss of material means an
apparent loss of dredged material greater than limits established in the most current section
103 Concurrence, section 103 permit, and/or described within the USACE contract
specifications in any event loss of dredged material during transit to ODMDS (in open water)
is not to exceed 1.5 feet. Transportation of dredged material to the ODMDS may not begin
or continue when weather and sea state conditions interfere with safe transportation and
create risk of spillage, leaks, or other loss of dredged material during transit. Disposal vessels
cannot be loaded beyond a level at which dredged material would be expected to be spilled
in transit under anticipated sea state conditions.
H. A disposal operations inspector and/or captain of any tugboat, hopper dredge or other
vessel used to transport dredged material to the Savannah ODMDS shall ensure compliance
with disposal operation conditions defined in this permit.
1. If the disposal operations inspector or the captain detects a violation, he shall report
the violation to the permittee immediately.
2. The permittee shall contact the USACE, Savannah District's Regulatory Branch
[TELEPHONE NUMBER] and EPA Region 4 via email and at (404) 562-xxxx to report
the violation within twenty-four (24) hours after the violation occurs. A complete
written explanation of any permit violation shall be included in the disposal summary
report.
I. When dredged material is disposed, no portion of the hopper dredge or disposal barge or
scow shall be outside of the boundaries of the Savannah ODMDS as defined in Special
Condition B.
J. For all disposal activities, permits and projects must use an electronic tracking system (ETS),
such as the Dredge Quality Management (DQM) system. Appendices B and C provide
template language that should be used. An ETS provides surveillance of the transportation
and disposal of dredged material. An ETS is maintained and operated to continuously track
the horizontal location and draft condition (accuracy! 0.1 foot) of the disposal vessel (i.e.,
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
52
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
hopper dredge or disposal scow) from the point of dredging to the disposal site and return
to the point of dredging. Data shall be collected at least every 0.25 nautical mile or every 4
minutes during travel to and from the ODMDS and every twelve seconds or every 30 feet of
travel within the ODMDS and while hull status is open.
K. The permittee shall record electronically, for each load, the following information:
1. Load Number
2. Disposal Vessel/Scow Name
3. Estimated Volume of Load
4. Description of Material Disposed
5. Source of Dredged Material
6. Date, Time, and Location at State of Initiation of Disposal and Completion of Disposal
Event
7. The ETS data required by Special Condition J
L. The permittee shall conduct a bathymetric survey of the Savannah ODMDS within 30 days
following project completion.
1. The number and length of the survey transects shall be sufficient to encompass the
release zone specified in Special Condition H and a 500-foot-wide border around the
site. The transects shall be spaced at 500-foot intervals or less.
2. Vertical accuracy of the survey shall be ±0.5 feet. Horizontal location of the survey
lines and depth sounding points will be determined by an automated positioning
system utilizing either microwave line of site system or differential global positioning
system. The vertical datum shall be mean lower low water (MLLW) and the
horizontal datum shall use state plane (Georgia East, Zone 1001) or latitude and
longitude coordinates (North American Datum 1983). State Plane coordinates shall
be reported to the nearest 0.10 foot and latitude and longitude coordinates shall be
reported as decimal degrees to 6 decimal points.
M. The permittee shall abide by the applicable National Marine Fisheries Service (NMFS)
Biological Opinion (BO) — either the South Atlantic Regional Biological Opinion (SARBO
2020) for Operations and Maintenance activities, or the project specific BO for deepening
and new construction projects. The BO covers 25 listed species including swimming sea
turtles, whales, corals, and sturgeon. The RBO contains mandatory terms and conditions to
implement the reasonable and prudent measures that are associated with "incidental take"
that is also specified in the RBO. Your authorization under the Corps permit is conditional
upon your compliance with all of the mandatory terms and conditions associated with the
incidental take of the attached RBO, which terms and conditions are incorporated by
reference in the permit. Failure to comply with the terms and conditions associated with the
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
53
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
incidental take of the RBO, where a take of the listed species occurs, would constitute an
unauthorized take, and it would also constitute non-compliance with your Corps permit.
However, depending on the affected species NMFS is the appropriate authority to
determine compliance with the terms and conditions of its RBO and with the Endangered
Species Act (ESA). For further clarification on this point, you should contact the appropriate
agency. Should they determine that the conditions of the RBO have been violated; normally
they will enforce the violation of the ESA or refer the matter to the Department of Justice.
REPORTING REQUIREMENTS
A. All reports, documentation and correspondence required by the conditions of this permit
shall be submitted to the following addresses: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (Corps),
Regulatory Division, Coastal Branch, 100 West Oglethorpe Avenue, Savannah, Georgia
31401 and Environmental Protection Agency Region 4's Oceans and Estuarine Management
Section (61 Forsyth Street, Atlanta, GA 30303) and via email at OceandumpingR4@epa.gov
. The Permittee shall reference this permit number, [INSERT PERMIT NUMBER], on all
submittals.
B. At least 15 days before initiating any dredging operations authorized by this permit, the
Permittee shall provide to the Corps and the EPA a written notification of the date of
commencement of work authorized by this permit.
C. Electronic data required by Special Conditions l.J and l.K shall be provided to EPA Region 4
on a daily basis. Data shall be submitted as an extensible Markup Language (XML)
document via Internet e-mail to DisposalData.R4@epa.gov. XML data file format
specifications are available from EPA Region 4.
D. The permittee shall send one (1) copy of the disposal summary report to the Savannah
District's Regulatory Branch and one (1) copy of the disposal summary report to EPA Region
4 documenting compliance with all general and special conditions defined in this permit.
The disposal summary report shall be sent within 90 days after completion of the disposal
operations authorized by this permit. The disposal summary report shall include the
following information:
1. The report shall indicate whether all general and special permit conditions were
met. Any violations of the permit shall be explained in detail.
2. The disposal summary report shall include the following information: dredging
project title; dates of disposal; permit number and expiration date; name of
contractor(s) conducting the work, name and type of vessel(s) disposing material in
the ODMDS; disposal timeframes for each vessel; volume disposed at the ODMDS
(as paid in situ volume, total paid and un paid in situ volume, and gross volume
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
54
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
reported by dredging contractor), number of loads to ODMDS, type of material
disposed at the ODMDS; identification of any misplaced material (outside disposal
release zone or the ODMDS boundaries); dates of pre and post disposal bathymetric
surveys of the ODMDS and a narrative discussing any violation(s) of the 103 permit.
The disposal summary report should be accompanied by the bathymetry survey
results (plot and X, Y, Z ASCII data file).
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
55
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP November 2023
APPENDIX C - GENERIC CONTRACT LANGUAGE
Generic Contract Specification Language for Use of the Savannah ODMDS
MPRSA section 102(c)(3) directs the EPA in conjunction with USACE to develop site management
and monitoring plans (SMMP) for dredged material disposal sites; such plans are implemented
through MPRSA permits issued by USACE or through federal projects subject to the same criteria,
evaluation factors, procedures, and requirements as permits. The EPA in conjunction with USACE
developed the template language below for inclusion in USACE contracts or other project
specifications for the transportation and disposal at the Savannah ODMDS. The regulation
designating an ODMDS may impose certain conditions and requirements on transportation to and
dumping at the site directly. In addition, the terms of any particular contract or other project
specification document for the transportation and disposal of dredged material at the Savannah
ODMDS can impose requirements specific to the project activity incorporating the language from
this Appendix (including as modified). A particular contract can and often does also include a term
requiring the site user or contractor to comply with specific terms and conditions derived from the
SMMP. USACE is not obligated to impose any particular contract term based on the template
language, though USACE may elect to do so; the language is provided to facilitate USACE contract
development and to provide notice to third parties. For any future federal project, the EPA's
concurrence review would confirm that appropriate terms are included to assure adequate
implementation of the SMMP and the MPRSA, and the language in this Appendix is available to
guide the EPA's review. The EPA may condition its concurrence on compliance with specified terms
and conditions derived from this Appendix, or other terms and conditions deemed appropriate, and
in such cases, USACE must include these terms and conditions in the contract documents.
A. General
All material dredged shall be transported to and deposited in the disposal area(s) designated on the
drawings. The approximate maximum and average distance to which the material will have to be
transported are as follows:
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
56
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
Maximum Distance
Average Distance
Disposal Area
Statue Miles
Statute Miles
Savannah ODMDS
[XX miles]
[XX miles]
[INSERT DISPOSAL ZONES AREA 2]
[IF MATERIAL FROM DIFFERENT PROJECT AREAS GO TO DIFFERENT DISOSAL AREAS, IT SHOULD BE
SPECIFIED HERE]
B. Ocean Disposal Notification
The Corps or the contractor shall notify EPA Region 4's Oceans, Wetlands, and Stream Protection
Branch via email at OceandumpingR4@epa.gov at least 15 calendar days and the local Coast Guard
Captain of the Port at least five calendar days prior to the first ocean disposal. The notification
should include the Contracting Officer (email CC). The following information shall be included in the
notification:
• Project designation; Corps of Engineers' Contracting Officer's name and contract number;
and the Contractor's name, address, and telephone number.
• Port of departure.
• Location of ocean disposal area (and disposal zone(s)).
• Schedule for ocean disposal, giving date and time proposed for first ocean disposal.
C. Ocean Dredged Material Disposal Sites (ODMDS)
The material excavated shall be transported to and deposited in the Savannah ODMDS as shown on
the drawings. When dredged material is disposed, no portion of the hopper dredge or disposal
barge or scow shall be outside of the boundaries of the Savannah ODMDS.
D. Logs
The Contractor shall keep a log for each load placed in the Savannah ODMDS. The log entry for each
load shall include:
• Load Number
• Disposal Vessel or Scow Name
• Tow-Vessel Name (if used)
• Estimated Volume of Load
• Description of Material Disposed
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
57
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
• Source of Dredged Material
• Date, Time, and Location at State of Initiation of Disposal and Completion of Disposal Event
• The ETS data required by Special Condition I
At the completion of dredging and at any time upon request, the log(s) shall be submitted in paper
and electronic formats to the Contracting Officer for forwarding to the appropriate agencies.
E. Scow Certification Checklist
Before any disposal vessel departs for the Savannah ODMDS, a dedicated quality control inspector
shall certify in writing that the disposal vessel is not overloaded, and otherwise meets the
conditions and requirements of a Scow Certification Checklist that contains all substantive elements
found in the example provided in this SMMP in Appendix D. If an alternate version of the Scow
Certification Checklist (Appendix D) is utilized, the EPA and the USACE must approve the proposed
Scow Certification Checklist prior to the commencement of ocean disposal operations. No ocean
disposal trip may be initiated until both the towing vessel captain and the quality control inspector
have signed all relevant entries on the Scow Certification Checklist. The inspector shall provide a
summary of any discrepancies or inaccuracies on the Checklist in the site user's report to the EPA
and the USACE.
F. Overflow, Spills, and Leaks
The permittee shall not allow any water or dredged material placed in a disposal vessel (i.e., a
hopper dredge, disposal barge or scow) to flow over the sides or leak from such vessels during
transportation to the Savannah ODMDS. Excessive leakage/spillage or other loss of material means
an apparent loss of dredged material greater than limits established in the most current section 103
Concurrence, section 103 permit, and/or described within the USACE contract specifications. In any
event, loss of dredged material during transit to ODMDS (in open water) is not to exceed 1.5 feet.
Transportation of dredged material to the ODMDS may not begin or continue when weather and
sea state conditions interfere with safe transportation and create risk of spillage, leaks, or other loss
of dredged material during transit. Disposal vessels cannot be loaded beyond a level at which
dredged material would be expected to be spilled in transit under anticipated sea state conditions.
G. Electronic Tracking System (ETS) for Ocean Disposal Vessels
The Contractor shall furnish an ETS for surveillance of the movement and disposition of dredged
material during dredging and ocean disposal. This ETS shall be established, operated, and
maintained by the Contractor to continuously track in real-time the horizontal location and draft
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
58
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
condition (accuracy! 0.1 foot) of the disposal vessel (hopper dredge or disposal scow) from the
point of dredging to the disposal site and return to the point of dredging. The ETS shall be capable
of displaying and recording, in real-time, the disposal vessel's draft, speed, and location. Data shall
be collected at least every 0.25 nautical mile or every four minutes during travel to and from the
ODMDS and every 12 seconds or every 30 feet of travel within the ODMDS and while hull status is
open.
[USE LANGUAGE BELOW FOR NON DQM PROJECTS]
H. ETS Standards
The Contractor shall provide automated (computer) system and components to perform in
accordance with COE EM 1110-1-2909. A copy of the EM can be downloaded from the following
website: http://www.usace.army.mil/inet/usace-docs'eng-manuals/em.htm. Horizontal location
and draft condition shall have an accuracy of ± 0.1 foot.
Data shall be collected at least every 0.25 nautical mile or every four minutes during travel to and
from the ODMDS and every 12 seconds or every 30 feet of travel within the ODMDS and while hull
status is open. In addition to the continuous tracking data, the following trip information shall be
electronically recorded for each disposal cycle:
• Load Number
• Disposal Vessel Name and Type (e.g., scow)
• Estimated volume of Load
• Description of Material Disposed
• Source of Dredged Material
• Date, Time and Location at Initiation and Completion of Disposal Event
The ETS shall be calibrated, as required, in the presence of the Contracting Officer at the work
location before disposal operations have started, and at 30-day intervals while work is in progress.
The Contracting Officer shall have access to the ETS in order to observe its operation. Disposal
operations will not commence until the ETS to be used by the Contractor is certified by the
Contracting Officer to be operational and within acceptable accuracy. It is the Contractor's
responsibility to select a system that will operate properly at the work location. The complete
system shall be subject to the Contracting Officer's approval.
ETS Data Requirements and Submissions
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
59
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
1. The ETS for each disposal vessel shall be in operation for all dredging and disposal activities
and shall record the full round trip for each loading and disposal from the point of dredging
to the disposal site and return to the point of dredging. The Contracting Officer shall be
notified immediately in the event of ETS failure and all dredging operations for the vessel
shall cease until the ETS is fully operational. Any delays resulting from ETS failure shall be at
the Contractor's expense.
2. Data shall be collected, during the dredging and disposal cycle (NOTE: A dredging and
disposal cycle constitutes the time from commencement of dredging to complete discharge
of the material), at least every 0.25 nautical mile or every four minutes during travel to and
from the ODMDS and every 12 seconds or every 30 feet of travel within the ODMDS and
while hull status is open.
3. Plot Reporting (Two types):
a. Tracking Plot - For each disposal event, data collected while the disposal vessel is in the
vicinity of the disposal area shall be plotted in chart form, in 200-foot intervals, to
show the track and draft of the disposal vessel approaching and traversing the disposal
area. The plot shall identify the exact position at which the dump commenced.
b. Scatter Plot - Following completion of all disposal events, a single and separate plot will
be prepared to show the exact disposal locations of all dumps. Every plotted location
shall coincide with the beginning of the respective dump. Each dump shall be labeled
with the corresponding Trip Number and shall be at a small but readable scale.
c. Summary Table - A spreadsheet which contains all of the information in the log(s)
above shall be prepared and shall correspond to the exact dump locations represented
on the Scatter Plot.
4. ETS data and log data required by section 3.2 shall be provided to EPA Region 4 on a weekly
or more frequent basis (within one week of disposal). Data shall be submitted to EPA Region
4 as an extensible Markup Language (XML) document via Internet e-mail to
DisposalData.R4gepa.gov. XML data file format specifications are available from EPA Region
4. EPA Region 4 and the USACE District require notification by email within 24 hours if
disposal occurs outside of the specified disposal release zone, if excessive leakage occurs, if
hull open status occurs outside the ODMDS, or other violation of the conditions in this
SMMP occur. Excessive leakage is defined as more than 1.5 feet of draft loss during transit to
the ODMDS averaged between forward and aft sensors. Correspondence will be required to
explain how the issue was addressed, pertinent dates, and corrective actions to be
implemented to prevent repetition in the future. All digital ETS data shall be furnished to the
Contracting Officer within 24 hours of collection. The digital plot files should be in an easily
readable format such as Adobe Acrobat PDF file, MicroStation DGN file, JPEG, BMP, TIFF, or
similar. The hard copy of the ETS data and tracking plots shall be both maintained onboard
the vessel and submitted to the Contracting Officer on a weekly basis.
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
60
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
[FOR DQM PROJECTS]
See: https://www.sam.usace.army.mil/Missions/Spatial~Data~Branch/Dredging~Qualitv-
Management/Specifications/Dredge-Specifications/.
For scows, the monitoring profile, TDS profile or Ullage profile shall be used.
I. Misplaced Materials
For civil works projects, materials deposited outside of the disposal release zone specified in 3.3.3
will be classified as misplaced material and will result in a suspension of dredging operations.
Redredging of such materials will be required, where applicable, as a prerequisite to the resumption
of dredging unless the Contracting Officer, at his discretion, determines that redredging of such
material is not practical. If redredging of such material is not required, then the quantity of such
misplaced material may be deducted from the Contractor's pay quantity. If the quantity for each
misplaced load to be deducted cannot initially be agreed to by both the Contractor and Contracting
Officer, then an average hopper/scow load quantity for the entire contract will be used in the
determination. Both regulatory and civil works projects misplaced loads may be subject to penalty
under the Marine, Protection, Research and Sanctuaries Act. Materials deposited above the
maximum indicated elevation or outside of the disposal area template shown will require the
redredging, relocation, or removal of such materials. In addition, the Contractor must notify the
USACE Contracting Officer and the EPA Region 4's Oceans & Estuarine Management Section (61
Forsyth Street, Atlanta, GA 30303) within 24 hours of a misplaced dump or any other violation of
the Site Management and Monitoring Plan for the Savannah ODMDS. Corrective actions must be
implemented prior to the next dump and the Contracting Officer must be informed of actions taken.
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
61
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
APPENDIX D - SCOW CERTIFICATION
November 2023
CHECKLIST TEMPLATE
SCOW CERTIFICATION CHECKLIST
USACE PERMIT or CONTRACT #
4/17/2015
[PROJECT NAME]
DATE:
CHECKLIST ITEM
RECORD DATA
INITIALS
TO BE FILLED OUT AND SIGNED WrTHN 1 HOUR PRIOR
TO DEPARTURE TIME IN NO. 3.
CONTRACTOR
Permittee or
Authorized
Representative
1. OCEAN DISPOSAL TRIP NUMBER
2. DEPARTURE DATE TO ODMDS
3. DEPARTURE TIME TO ODMDS
4. DEPARTURE LOCATION (dredge, berth, etc.)
5. SCOW NAME
6. SCOW CAPACITY (CY)
7. TUG NAME
8. TUG CAPTAIN'S NAME
9. DREDGED MATERIAL SOURCE (area, reach, berth, etc.)
10. CUBIC YARDS HAULED
11. SCOW FORE DRAFT / AFT DRAFT / AVG AND TIM E
12. SCOW FORE DRAFT / AFT DRAFT / AVG AND TIM E
(must be at least one hour prior to time in No. 11)
13. DRAFT CHANGE (No 12-No. 11)
14. FREEBOARD OF MATERIAL AND/OR WATER SURFACE
15. NWS COASTAL MARINE FORECAST (out to 20 nm)
DATE / TIME OF REPORT
Tareal
WAVE HT
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
APPENDIX E - DISPOSAL HISTORY
November 2023
Table El. Annual disposal volumes (1976 - 2012)
Year
Cubic Yards
1976
1,545,800
1977
1,915,500
1978
2,964,200
1979
239,500
1980
578,600
1981
1,411,600
1983
2,232,700
1985
2,305,900
1989
537,500
1991
1,105,000
1992
554,700
1993
2,202,800
1994
2,239,800
1995
486,100
1997
583,200
1998
1,273,700
1999
533,200
2000
2,611,900
2001
1,117,900
2002
466,800
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
63
-------
Savannah ODMDS SMMP
November 2023
2003
635,200
2004
620,600
2005
888,100
2007
997,100
2008
119,200
2012
351,347
US EPA Region 4
USACE Savannah District
64
------- |