Sampling and Analysis Plan (SAP)

Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP)

For

Jacksonville Ocean Dredged Material Disposal 

Site (ODMDS) Site Designation Studies

Contract # W912EP-09-R-0054

Submitted to

US Army Corps of Engineers—Jacksonville District

701 San Marco Boulevard

Jacksonville, Florida 32207

And

US Environmental Protection Agency, Region 4

Sam Nunn Atlanta Federal Center

61 Forsyth Street, SW

Atlanta, Georgia 30303

Submitted by

ANAMAR Environmental Consulting, Inc.

2106 NW 67th Place, Suite 5

Gainesville, Florida 32653-1658

March 2010
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 1.0, Element A1: Title and Approval Sheet

2

GROUP A. PROJECT MANAGEMENT

1.0 ELEMENT A1 - TITLE AND APPROVAL SHEET

Title: Jacksonville Ocean Dredged Material Disposal Site (ODMDS) Site Designation 

Studies 

Organization/Applicant: U.S. Army Corps of Engineers—Jacksonville District

Project Officer: Glenn Schuster

Signature: Date:

Regulatory Agency: USEPA, Region 4

Designated Approving Official: Chris McArthur

Signature: Date:

Technical Review: Chris McArthur

Signature: Date:

Contractor: ANAMAR Environmental Consulting, Inc.

Project Manager: Michelle Rau

Signature: Date:

QA/QC Officer: Paul Berman

Signature: Date:
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Appendix

3

2.0 ELEMENT A2 - TABLE OF CONTENTS

TABLE OF CONTENTS

1.0 ELEMENT A1 - TITLE AND APPROVAL SHEET ..................................................................................2

2.0 ELEMENT A2 - TABLE OF CONTENTS....................................................................................................3

3.0 ELEMENT A3 - DISTRIBUTION LIST....................................................................................................8

4.0 ELEMENT A4 - PROJECT/TASK ORGANIZATION ............................................................................9

4.1 Survey Project Proponent ............................................................................................................9

4.2 Survey Project Team and Responsibilities............................................................................9

5.0 ELEMENT A5 - PROBLEM DEFINITION/BACKGROUND .............................................................12

5.1 Purpose and Need/Site History...............................................................................................14

5.2 Identification of Principal Data Users and Decision Makers .......................................18

6.0 ELEMENT A6 - TASK DESCRIPTION...................................................................................................19

6.1 Purpose/Background ..................................................................................................................19

6.2 Description of the Sampling and Analysis ..........................................................................22

6.2.1. Measurements That Are Expected During the Course of the Sampling 

Survey ............................................................................................................................22

6.2.2. Applicable Technical Quality Standards or Criteria .....................................24

6.2.3. Special Personnel or Equipment Requirements That May Indicate 

the Complexity of the Dredging Project ...........................................................25

6.2.4. Assessment Techniques Needed for the Dredging Project .......................25

6.2.5. Schedule for the Work Performed ......................................................................26

6.2.6. Required Deliverables/Reports ...........................................................................26

7.0 ELEMENT A7 - QUALITY OBJECTIVES AND CRITERIA FOR MEASUREMENT DATA.........28

8.0 ELEMENT A8 - SPECIAL TRAINING REQUIREMENTS/CERTIFICATION ..............................31

9.0 ELEMENT A9 - DOCUMENTATION AND RECORDS.........................................................................32

9.1 Reporting of Results.....................................................................................................................32

9.2 Report Format.................................................................................................................................33

Data Reporting Package Archiving and Retrieval ...........................................................35

10.0 ELEMENT B1 - SAMPLING PROCESS DESIGN................................................................................36

10.1 Scheduled Project Activities, Including Measurement Activities ..............................36

10.2 Rationale for the Design ............................................................................................................36

10.3 Design Assumptions.....................................................................................................................36

10.4 Procedures for Locating and Selecting Environmental Samples ...............................36

10.5 Classification of Measurements as Critical or Noncritical ............................................41

10.6 Validation of Any Nonstandard Methods .............................................................................41

11.0 ELEMENT B2 – SAMPLING AND METHODS REQUIREMENTS...................................................42

11.1 Describe the Sample Collection, Preparation, and Decontamination Procedures

42

11.2 Identify Support Facilities for Sampling Methods ...........................................................46

11.3 Describe Sampling/Measurement System Failure Response and 

Corrective Action Process..........................................................................................................47

11.4 Describe Sampling Equipment, Sample Preservation, and Holding Times ............47

12.0 ELEMENT B3 – SAMPLE HANDLING AND CUSTODY REQUIREMENTS..................................52

13.0 ELEMENT B4 – ANALYTICAL METHODS REQUIREMENTS .........................................................54

13.1 Subsampling ...................................................................................................................................54

13.2 Preparation of the Samples ......................................................................................................54
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Appendix

4

13.3 Analytical Methods .......................................................................................................................54

13.3.1 Physical and Chemical Analysis ...........................................................................54

13.3.2 Taxonomic Analysis ..................................................................................................62

14.0 ELEMENT B5 - QUALITY CONTROL REQUIREMENTS..................................................................63

15.0 ELEMENT B6 – INSTRUMENT/EQUIPMENT TESTING, INSPECTION, AND 

MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS ........................................................................................................66

16.0 ELEMENT B7 – INSTRUMENT CALIBRATION AND FREQUENCY.............................................67

17.0 ELEMENT B8 – INSPECTION/ACCEPTANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR SUPPLIES AND 

CONSUMABLES ..........................................................................................................................................68

18.0 ELEMENT B9 – DATA ACQUISITION REQUIREMENTS (NON-DIRECT MEASUREMENTS)

69

19.0 ELEMENT B10 – DATA MANAGEMENT, INTERPRETATION, AND REDUCTION..................70

20.0 ELEMENT C1 – ASSESSMENTS AND RESPONSE ACTIONS ........................................................72

21.0 ELEMENT C2 – REPORTS TO MANAGEMENT ..................................................................................73

22.0 ELEMENT D1 – DATA REVIEW, VALIDATION, AND VERIFICATION REQUIREMENTS ...75

23.0 ELEMENT D2 – VALIDATION AND VERIFICATIONS METHODS ..............................................76

24.0 ELEMENT D3 – RECONCILIATION WITH DATA QUALITY OBJECTIVES...............................77

25.0 REFERENCES ..............................................................................................................................................78
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Appendix

5

List of Figures

Figure 4-1 Project Organization Chart

Figure 5-1 Dredging Areas and ODMDS

Figure 5-2 Jacksonville Harbor Navigation Project

Figure 6-1a Proposed Sampling Stations in North Candidate Site

Figure 6-1b Proposed Sampling Stations in South Candidate Site

List of Tables

Table 5-1 Five General and Eleven Specific Site Selection Criteria

Table 5-2 Project 10-Year Status of the Jacksonville ODMDS

Table 5-3 Areas of Responsibility for Principle Data Users

Table 6-2 Estimated Schedule of Work Performed

Table 7-1 Data Quality Objectives for Sediment, Water, and Tissue Analyses

Table 7-2 Data Quality Objectives for Enumeration and Taxonomy of Invertebrates and 

Fishes

Table 9-1 Laboratories Submitting Data for this Project

Table 10-1 Sediment Sample Identification and Station Coordinates

Table 10-2 Macroinfaunal Sample Station Identification and Station Coordinates

Table 10-3 Macroepifaunal Sample Station Identification and Station Coordinates

Table 10-4 Physicochemical and Water Quality Station Identification and Station Coordinates

Table 10-5 Sample Analysis

Table 11-1 Standard Operating Procedures Used During Sampling

Table 11-2 Minimum Volume Requirements per Sample for Physical and Chemical Analysis

Table 11-3 Container Requirements for Sediment Samples for Chemical and Physical Analysis

Table 11-4 Container Requirements for Water Samples for Chemical Analysis

Table 11-5 Container Requirements for Tissue Samples for Chemical Analysis

Table 11-6 Container Requirements for Macroinfaunal Samples for Taxonomic Analysis

Table 11-7 Container Requirements for Macroepifaunal Samples for Vouchering and 

Verification of Identity

Table 12-1 Field Activity Forms Used to Document Sample Collection and Support Activities

Table 13-1 Analytes, Methods, and Target Reporting Limits: Sediment Physical Analysis

Table 13-2 Analytes, Methods, and Target Reporting Limits: Sediment Chemistry

Table 13-3 Analytes, Methods, and Target Reporting Limits: Water Chemistry

Table 13-4 Analytes, Methods, and Target Reporting Limits: Tissue Chemistry

Table 14-1 Quality Control Activities Performed for Field, Physical, and Chemical Analyses

Table 21-1 Minimum Reporting Requirements

Table 21-2 Electronic Raw Data File Format
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Appendix

6

Appendices

Sediment Sampling Field Sheet

Water Quality Sampling Field Sheet

Macroinfaunal Sampling Log

Macroepifaunal (Trawl) Sampling Log

Chain-of-Custody Form

Daily Quality Control Report

Temperature Log
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 2.0, Element A2: Table of Contents

7

List of Acronyms

CCL Contaminant Cleanup Target Levels

CQAR Chemical Quality Assurance Report

DQCR Daily Quality Control Report

EPA U.S. Environmental Protection Agency

FDEP Florida Department of Environmental Protection

MDL Method Detection Limit

RL Reporting Limit

NELAC National Environmental Laboratory Association Conference

PAH Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons (also known as Polycyclic Aromatic 

Hydrocarbons)

PCB Polychlorinated Biphenyls

QA/QC Quality Assurance/Quality Control

QAM Quality Assurance Manual

QAPP Quality Assurance Project Plan

SAP Sampling and Analysis Plan

TBD To Be Determined

USACE U.S. Army Corps of Engineers
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 3.0, Element A3: Distribution List Project/Task Organization

8

3.0 ELEMENT A3 - DISTRIBUTION LIST

This document is to be distributed to the following individuals for review and approval prior to 

commencement of sampling activities. Additional electronic copies are available by request 

from ANAMAR Environmental Consulting, Inc. 

1. USACE Project Officer: Glenn Schuster

2. USEPA Designated Approving Official: Chris McArthur

3. USEPA Technical Review: Chris McArthur

4. ANAMAR Project Manager: Michelle Rau

5. ANAMAR QA/QC Officer: Paul Berman
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 4.0, Element A4: Project/Task Organization

9

4.0 ELEMENT A4 - PROJECT/TASK ORGANIZATION

4.1 Survey Project Proponent 

Proponent: US Army Corps of Engineers—Jacksonville District

Regulatory: US Environmental Protection Agency, Region 4

4.2 Survey Project Team and Responsibilities

Organization: US Army Corps of Engineers—Jacksonville District

Project Officer: Glenn Schuster

701 San Marco Boulevard

Jacksonville, Florida 32207

Phone: (904) 232-3691

Fax: (904) 232-1904

E-mail: glenn.r.schuster@saj02.usace.army.mil

Responsibilities: Project Officer for the Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies. Also 

responsible for co-management of the Jacksonville ODMDS once approved for use by USEPA,.

Organization: US Environmental Protection Agency, Region 4

Designated Approving Official: Chris McArthur 

Wetlands and Marine Regulatory Section

61 Forsyth Street, SW

Atlanta, Georgia 30303

Phone: (404) 562-9391

Fax: (404) 562-9343

E-mail: mcarthur.christopher@epamail.epa.gov

Responsibilities: Conduct designation survey of the proposed Jacksonville ODMDS in

accordance with 40 CFR 228.6(b) and approve or deny use based on survey results. Also

responsible for co-management of the Jacksonville ODMDS with USACE. 

Organization: US Environmental Protection Agency, Region 4

Technical Review: Chris McArthur 

Coastal Section

61 Forsyth Street, SW

Atlanta, Georgia 30303

Phone: (404) 562-9391

Fax: (404) 562-9343

E-mail: mcarthur.christopher@epamail.epa.gov

Responsibilities: Conduct designation survey of the proposed Jacksonville ODMDS in 

accordance with 40 CFR 228.6(b) and approve or deny use based on survey results. 

Additionally, Chris will co-manage the Jacksonville ODMDS with USACE.

Contractor 1: ANAMAR Environmental Consulting, Inc.

Project Manager: Michelle Rau

2106 NW 67th Place, Suite 5

Gainesville, Florida 32653-1658

Phone: (352) 377-5770 ext. 107

Fax: (352) 378-7620
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 4.0, Element A4: Project/Task Organization

10

E-mail: mrau@anamarinc.com

Responsibilities: Project management, conduct designation survey, sample handling and 

transport, chains of custody, quality assurance management, final data reporting

Contracted by: USACE—Jacksonville District under Contract # W912EP-09-R-0054 

Chemistry Laboratory 1: Columbia Analytical Services, Inc. (CAS) 

Project Manager: Jeff Christian 

1317 S. 13th Avenue

Kelso, Washington 98626

Phone: (360) 501-3316

Fax: (360) 636-1068

E-mail: jchristian@kelso.caslab.com

Responsibilities: Sample holding and archiving, laboratory preparation and analysis for 

sediment and site water.

Contracted by: ANAMAR Environmental Consulting, Inc.

Geotechnical Laboratory: MACTEC/Law Engineering

Project Manager: Mark Coleman 

3901 Carmichael Avenue

Jacksonville, Florida 32207

Phone: (904) 396-5173

Fax: (904) 396-5703

E-mail: macoleman@mactec.com

Responsibilities: Sample holding and archiving, laboratory preparation and analysis for physical 

analyses.

Contracted by: ANAMAR Environmental Consulting, Inc.

Taxonomic Laboratory: Barry A. Vittor & Associates, Inc.

Project Manager: Linda W. Sierke

8060 Cottage Hill Rd.

Mobile, Alabama 36695

Phone: (251) 633-6100

E-mail: lsierke@bvaenviro.com

Responsibilities: Macroinfauna identification and analysis.

Contracted by: ANAMAR Environmental Consulting, Inc.

The successful completion of this project relies on open lines of communication between the 

client, contractor, regulatory agencies, laboratories, and subcontractors. This communication 

and successful completion of the project must be the contractor’s utmost goal. Contact 

information will be readily available throughout the life of this project, from pre-planning to field 

work, data analysis, data reduction, and reporting. Any questions, clarifications, suggestions, 

and/or problems will be addressed in a timely manner. 

See Project Organization Chart on next page.
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 4.0, Element A4: Project/Task Organization

11

Figure 4-1: Project Organization Chart

USACE

Project Officer: Glenn Schuster

(904) 232-3691

Geotechnical Lab:

MACTEC

Project Manager: 

Mark Coleman

(904) 396-5173

Chemistry Lab:

CAS

Project Manager: 

Jeff Christian

(360) 501-3316

USEPA

Designated Approving Official: 

Chris McArthur 

(404) 562-9391

Technical Review: 

Chris McArthur 

(404) 562-9391

Contractor: ANAMAR

QA/QC Manager: Paul Berman

(352) 377-5770 x106

Contractor: ANAMAR

Project Manager: 

Michelle Rau

(352) 377-5770 x107

Infaunal Taxonomic Lab:

Barry Vittor & Assoc.

Project Manager: 

Linda W. Sierke 

(251) 633-6100
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 5.0, Element A5: Problem Definition/Background

12

5.0 ELEMENT A5 - PROBLEM DEFINITION/BACKGROUND

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 4 (herein referred to as EPA) and U.S. Army 

Corps of Engineers—Jacksonville District (herein referred to as USACE) share responsibility for 

the control and management of ocean disposal of dredged material under the Marine 

Protection, Research, and Sanctuaries Act of 1972 (33 U.S.C. 1401 et seq., MPRSA). There are 

three distinct but interrelated activities for which EPA and/or USACE have responsibilities with 

respect to ocean disposal of dredged material (USEPA and USACE 2007): 

1) Designation or selection of sites for ocean disposal of dredged material, 

2) Evaluation of the suitability of dredged material for ocean disposal, and 

3) Management and monitoring of Ocean Dredged Material Disposal Sites (ODMDSs) to 

ensure compliance with the MPRSA. 

The MPRSA assigns basic responsibility to EPA and USACE for ensuring that ocean dredged 

material disposal activities will not unreasonably degrade or endanger human health, welfare, 

or amenities, or the marine environment (MRPSA Sections 102 and 103). Section 102 of the 

MPRSA authorizes EPA to designate sites or times at which dumping may occur and to establish 

criteria for reviewing and evaluating permit applications, including those for dredged material. 

It also authorized EPA, in conjunction with USACE, to develop site management plans for 

dredged material disposal sites. Section 103 of the MPRSA authorizes USACE to issue permits 

subject to compliance with the EPA environmental criteria (Ocean Dumping Criteria at 40 CFR 

Part 227) and EPA concurrence with USACE’s finding of compliance. Section 103(b) authorizes 

USACE, with EPA concurrence, to select alternative project sites of limited duration for disposal 

of dredged material in ocean waters when the use of a site designated by EPA is not feasible.

Site designation has two primary purposes. Sites are selected that minimize adverse 

environmental effects and minimize the interference of dumping activities with other activities in 

the marine environment (USEPA 1986). Also, the site designation process is designed to ensure 

that temporary perturbations in water quality are reduced to normal ambient seawater levels 

before reaching any beach, shoreline, marine sanctuary, or geographically limited fishery or 

shellfishery [40 CFR § 228.5 (a, b)].

A site designation requires a formal evaluation of alternative sites in which the potential 

environmental impacts associated with disposal of dredged material at various locations are 

examined. Before the site designation process can begin, USACE must first demonstrate the 

need for the proposed ODMDS designation action [40 CFR 6.203(a) and 40 CFR 1502.13]. 

Once the need for an ocean disposal site is established, potential sites are screened for 

feasibility through the Zone of Siting Feasibility (ZSF) process. Once the ZSF process is 

completed, candidate sites are selected for further evaluation. Sites are evaluated using EPA’s 

ocean disposal criteria at 40 CFR Part 228. The regulations outline five general criteria and 11 

specific factors upon which to base site selection (40 CRF 228.5-228.6; Table 5-1). Of the 

sites that satisfy these criteria, the site which best complies with the criteria is selected as the 

preferred alternative for formal designation through rulemaking published in the Federal 

Register.
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 5.0, Element A5: Problem Definition/Background

13

Table 5-1 Five General and 11 Specific Site Selection Criteria

General Site Selection Criteria – 40 CFR 228.5

(a)

The dumping of materials into the ocean will be permitted only at sites or in areas selected to 

minimize the interference of disposal activities with other activities in the marine environment, 

particularly avoiding areas of existing fisheries or shellfisheries, and regions of heavy commercial or 

recreational navigation.

(b)

Locations and boundaries of disposal sites will be so chosen that temporary perturbances in water 

quality or other environmental conditions during initial mixing caused by disposal operations 

anywhere within the site can be expected to be reduced to normal ambient seawater levels or to 

undetectable contaminant concentrations or effects before reaching any beach, shoreline, marine 

sanctuary, or known geographically limited fishery or shellfishery.

(c)

If at any time during or after disposal site evaluation studies, it is determined that existing disposal 

sites presently approved on an interim basis for ocean dumping do not meet the criteria for site 

selection set forth in Sections 228.5 through 228.6, the use of such sites will be terminated as soon 

as suitable alternate disposal sites can be designated.

(d)

The sizes of the ocean disposal sites will be limited in order to localize for identification and control 

any immediate adverse impacts and permit the implementation of effective monitoring and 

surveillance programs to prevent adverse long-range impacts. The size, configuration, and location 

of any disposal site will be determined as a part of the disposal site evaluation or designation study.

(e)

EPA will, wherever feasible, designate ocean dumping sites beyond the edge of the continental

shelf and other such sites that have been historically used.

Specific Site Selection Criteria – 40 CFR 228.6(a)

(1) Geographical position, depth of water, bottom topography, and distance from the coast.

(2) Location in relation to breeding, spawning, nursery, feeding, or passage areas of living resources in 

adult or juvenile phases.

(3) Location in relation to beaches and other amenity areas.

(4) Types and quantities of wastes proposed to be disposed of, and proposed methods of release, 

including methods of packaging the waste, if any.

(5) Feasibility of surveillance and monitoring.

(6) Dispersal, horizontal transport, and vertical mixing characteristics of the area, including prevailing 

current direction and velocity, if any.

(7) Existence and effects of current and previous discharges and dumping in the area (including 

cumulative effects).

(8) Interference with shipping, fishing, recreation, mineral extraction, desalination, fish and shellfish 

culture, areas of special scientific importance, and other legitimate uses of the ocean.

(9) Existing water quality and ecology of the site as determined by available data or by trend assessment 

or baseline surveys.

(10) Potentiality for the development or recruitment of nuisance species in the disposal site.

(11) Existence at, or in close proximity to, the site of any significant natural or cultural features of historical 

importance.

Source: USEPA 1986
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 5.0, Element A5: Problem Definition/Background

14

5.1 Purpose and Need/Site History

The Jacksonville ODMDS is located on the continental shelf off Jacksonville, Florida, 

approximately 5 nmi southeast of the St. Johns River mouth (Figure 5-1). It is 1 nmi by 1 nmi (1 

nmi2) in size with an average depth of 14 m (46 ft). Since 1952, the Jacksonville ODMDS and 

vicinity has been used for disposal of sand, silt, and clay dredge material from the Jacksonville 

Harbor Navigation Project, Naval Station Mayport entrance channel, and Naval Station Mayport 

turning basin. The Jacksonville ODMDS received interim site designation status in 1977 and 

final designation in 1983. 

Due to potential capacity issues at this site, the USACE—Jacksonville District and EPA, Region 

4 have identified a need to either expand the Jacksonville ODMDS or designate a new ODMDS 

in the vicinity. The need for expanding current ocean disposal capacity is based on observed 

mounding, future capacity modeling, historical dredging volumes (Table 5-2), and estimates of 

future proposed projects. The purpose of the proposed action is to ensure that adequate 

environmentally acceptable and economically and logistically feasible ocean disposal site 

capacity is available for the next 50 years for suitable dredged material generated from new 

projects and maintenance dredging. The availability of suitable ocean disposal sites to support 

ongoing maintenance and capital improvement projects is essential for the continued use and 

economic growth of vital commercial and recreational areas in the region. As part of the site 

designation process, candidate sites are being evaluated based on environmental, operational, 

and economic criteria to identify a viable dredged material disposal site.

Disposal History and Future Needs

Prior to 1970 and in the early 1970s, material was disposed in an area 0.5 nautical miles east of 

the Jacksonville ODMDS. In the late 1970s material was disposed south of the site (USEPA 

and USACE 2007). Naval Station Mayport has used the Jacksonville ODMDS regularly since

1994 and has been taking all of its maintenance dredged material to the Jacksonville ODMDS 

since two upland dredged material placement sites on Naval Station Mayport reached capacity 

in 1993. Since 1995, Naval Station Mayport has used the Jacksonville ODMDS on a biannual 

basis for disposal of most of its 900,000 cubic yards (cy) of maintenance material (annual 

average 450,000 cy) (NAVFAC 2008). Between 1996 and 2006, a total of approximately 4.8 

million cy of dredged material was placed at the Jacksonville ODMDS, of which 82% was 

generated from Naval Station Mayport maintenance dredging (Table 5-2) (USEPA and USACE 

2007). Naval Station Mayport’s need for maintenance material disposal is expected to continue 

at increasing levels with deepening of the turning basin and entrance channel, and the 

Jacksonville ODMDS is the closest and preferred disposal site. 

In addition, the Jacksonville Harbor Federal Navigation Project has used the Jacksonville 

ODMDS for disposal of coarse material not suitable for beach placement from the entrance 

channel. In 2007, approximately 510,000 cy of material was placed at the Jacksonville ODMDS 

for the federal navigation project (Table 5-2). Currently, USACE removes approximately 

300,000 cy from the outer portion of the federal navigation channel during maintenance 

dredging every three years (annual average 100,000 cy), which has been disposed of in the 

Jacksonville ODMDS since 2003 (NAVFAC 2008). It is expected that Jacksonville Harbor 

Federal Navigation Project will continue to utilize the ODMDS for non-beach-compatible 

material in the entrance channel. As upland disposal alternatives become limited, the volumes 

from the Jacksonville Harbor Federal Navigation Project may increase. 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 5.0, Element A5: Problem Definition/Background

15
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 5.0, Element A5: Problem Definition/Background

16

Table 5-2 Projected 10-Year Status of the Jacksonville ODMDS

Maintenance Volume 460,000 cy (historical annual average) + 30,000 cy1

(projected 

increase from proposed project) = 490,000 cy annual average

10-Year Maintenance Volume 10 x 490,000 cy (average annual maintenance projects) = 

4.9 million cy

Proposed NAVSTA Mayport 

Deepening

5.2 million cy

10-Year Impact on LowVolume Estimate: 4.9 million cy + 5.2 million cy = 10.1 million cy, which is 109% 

of available 9.3 million cy capacity of Jacksonville ODMDS

cy = cubic yards

1

The projected increase of 27,500 cy annual maintenance dredge increase resulting from the proposed deepening is 

conservatively rounded to 30,000 cy.

Source: NAVFAC 2008

Recent sediment transport modeling indicated a sedimentation increase of about 2% within the 

Naval Station Mayport turning basin, 7% within the Naval Station Mayport entrance channel, 

and 2% within the federal navigation channel (NAVFAC 2008). This equates to a ca. 5% 

increase of overall maintenance volume, or an annual increase of approximately 27,500 cy of 

maintenance material. In addition, it is estimated that the Jacksonville Harbor Federal 

Navigation Project will need to dispose of approximately 472,000 cy every three years for 

maintenance dredging due to shoaling at various sites along the project reach. 

New work is also being proposed, including the Department of the Navy homeporting of 

additional surface ships at Naval Station Mayport, which would require deepening of the turning 

basin and entrance channel at Naval Station Mayport and deepening of the Jacksonville Harbor 

Federal Navigation Project, Bar Cut 3 (Figure 5-1). Total estimated volume for dredging is 

approximately 5.2 million cy with subsequent disposals of maintenance dredged material of 0.8 

million cy annually (NAVFAC 2008). The proposed Jacksonville Harbor deepening project will 

likely increase annual maintenance volumes as well (Figure 5-2). It is estimated that up to 38 

million cy of material will be generated for potential new construction. There are also nonfederal projects that have dredged material disposal needs. In general, ODMDS use is expected 

to increase as upland disposal sites become limited.

Currently, use of the Jacksonville ODMDS is temporarily restricted to 2 million cy per year as 

established in the 2007 Site Management and Monitoring Plan (SMMP) (USEPA and USACE 

2007). This restriction is based on maximum historical uses of the ODMDS. Priority for ODMDS 

use within the capacity constraints will be given to maintenance projects from the Naval Station 

Mayport and the Jacksonville Harbor Federal Navigation Project. Approval for new work 

projects or maintenance material from non-federal projects will be dependent on a 

consideration of site capacity and long-term (i.e., 10 years) maintenance needs from the 

aforementioned maintenance projects.
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 5.0, Element A5: Problem Definition/Background

17
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 5.0, Element A5: Problem Definition/Background

18

It is recognized that the Jacksonville ODMDS requires expansion or a new site designated by 

EPA to enable continued disposal of maintenance dredging from Naval Station Mayport, the 

federal navigation channel, and others that use Jacksonville ODMDS; therefore, 10 years of 

maintenance capacity are used to determine viability. Table 5-2 provides an estimate of the 

status of the Jacksonville ODMDS over the next 10-year period based on historic use of the site, 

the estimated remaining capacity using the low estimate of 9.3 million cy, and the 5.2 million cy 

of dredged material that would be generated from the proposed Naval Station Mayport 

deepening project. Under such a scenario, the 10-year impact using the low volume capacity 

estimate would result in 10.1 million cy being placed in the Jacksonville ODMDS, which 

represents 109% of its capacity.

5.2 Identification of Principal Data Users and Decision Makers

Table 5-3: Areas of Responsibility for Principle Data Users

AgencyOrganization Location Area(s) of Responsibility

USACE—

Jacksonville

Jacksonville, 

Florida

Responsible for maintenance and co-management of 

the Jacksonville ODMDS with EPA, Region 4. 

Responsible for preparation of NEPA documents 

supporting new site designation or expansion of the 

Jacksonville ODMDS pursuant to Section 103 of the 

MPRSA.

USEPA, 

Region 4 Atlanta, Georgia

Responsible for new site designation ODMDS or 

expansion of the Jacksonville ODMDS. Gives 

concurrence to environmental requirements of dredged 

sediment for approval for offshore disposal per the 

Green Book (USEPA 1991), SERIM (USEPA/USACE 

1993), and the ITM (USEPA 1998), and co-management 

of the Jacksonville ODMDS with USACE—Jacksonville.
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 6.0, Element A6: Dredging Project/Task Description

19

6.0 ELEMENT A6 - TASK DESCRIPTION

6.1 Purpose/Background

The designation of an ODMDS will be executed by the EPA and USACE and will be based on: 

Environmental studies of each site, regions adjacent to the site, 

and on historical knowledge of the impact of dredged material 

disposal on areas similar to such sites in physical, chemical, and 

biological characteristics (Regulations and Criteria, Part 228.4)

Before final designation can be conferred upon a site, full environmental documentation must 

be prepared and approved by the EPA for each site (Pequegnat et al. 1990). All studies for the 

evaluation and potential selection of a new ODMDS will be conducted in accordance with five 

general criteria (40 CFR 22.5) and eleven specific criteria (40 CFR 228.6). The surveys 

described in this document are part of the required environmental documentation for the 

ODMDS site designation process.

Based on the ZSF analysis and available data, several study areas were selected for more indepth evaluation to determine the suitability for dredged material disposal. In October 2009

and March 2010, sidescan sonar surveys, video transects, and dives were conducted from the 

EPA OSV Bold to assess the existence of hard or live bottom resources within and adjacent to 

these study areas . Based on results from this survey, EPA and USACE selected two candidate

sites in which additional surveys described in this document will be performed (Figure 6-1).

The purpose of the site designation surveys is to further describe the environment of the 

candidate sites including sediment characteristics (physical and chemical), macroinfauna, 

macroepifauna, and water quality characteristics. The objective of these studies is to narrow 

down candidate sites to one preferred alternative based on the results. The goal of these 

surveys is to select the least environmentally damaging and most economically feasible and 

logistically practical site possible. 

The information obtained during these surveys will be considered baseline data. Survey results 

will be used to determine whether future dredged material placed at the new ODMDS has the 

potential to adversely impact benthic infaunal resources, benthic epifaunal resources, sediment 

quality, or water quality. Information gleaned from this study and future studies will be used to 

guide management decisions relative to future disposal at the selected site.

ANAMAR has been contracted by USACE to provide field and project management support to 

USACE and EPA. ANAMAR will work as a team with USACE and EPA personnel to collect 

sediment, benthic, fish, and water quality samples for analysis of physical, chemical, and 

taxonomic parameters as outlined in this document. ANAMAR will manage subcontracting with 

laboratories and be responsible for transferring custody of samples to the appropriate 

laboratories. ANAMAR will also receive the laboratory reports, review all results and quality 

control, compile data, and submit a complete report that summarizes results and conclusions.
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 6.0, Element A6: Dredging Project/Task Description

20

FIGURE 6-1a. Proposed Sampling Stations in North Candidate Site.
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 6.0, Element A6: Dredging Project/Task Description

21

FIGURE 6-1b. Proposed Sampling Stations in South Candidate Site.
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 6.0, Element A6: Dredging Project/Task Description

22

6.2 Description of the Sampling and Analysis

Two site designation surveys are planned for this project. The first survey is planned for spring 

2010 (March 28–April 2), and the second is planned for fall 2010 (September 13–18). The 

purpose of conducting two surveys is to account for seasonal variability of the parameters of 

interest. The two surveys vary slightly and will be described in more detail in the following 

sections. Objectives of the surveys focus on the characterization of selected areas of seafloor 

from a sedimentological, chemical, and biological perspective, but also include physicochemical 

studies of the water column in the selected areas.

6.2.1. Measurements That Are Expected During the Course of the Sampling 

Survey

See Section 13.3 for proposed analytical methods and target detection limits.

Table 6-1: Spring 2010 Field Sampling and Analysis Scheme for Jacksonville ODMDS 

Site Designation Sampling Events

Sample Type Candidate 

Site Number of Samples

Parameters / 

Analyses

Collection 

Method1

Sediment North

7+ 1 field split = 8

Total = 8 samples

Grain Size

TOC

Metals

PCBs

PAHs

Pesticides

Organotins

Grab

Sediment South

7 New Sediment Samples (3 additional 

stations have sediment analysis from 

prior sampling) + 1 Field Split

Total = 7 + 1 = 8

Grain Size

TOC

Metals

PCBs

PAHs

Pesticides

Organotins

Grab

Sediment

Macroinfauna North

8 x 3 replicates = 24

Total = 24 samples

Taxonomic ID

Various Indices

Biomass

Grab

Sediment

Macroinfauna South

10 Stations (4 previous + 6 New) to 

Match Sediment Stations x 3 Replicates

Total = 30 Samples

Taxonomic ID

Various Indices

Biomass

Grab

Macroepifauna North

2 Stations x 2 Replicate Tows Inside 

Site = 4 Tows

2 Stations x 2 Replicate Tows Outside 

Site = 4 tows

Total = 8 samples

Total Biomass

Taxonomic ID

Species Richness

Other Indices

Otter trawl

Macroepifauna South

2 Stations x 2 Replicate Tows Inside 

Site = 4 Tows

2 Stations x 2 Replicate Tows Outside 

Total Biomass

Taxonomic ID

Species Richness

Other Indices

Otter trawl
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 6.0, Element A6: Dredging Project/Task Description

23

Sample Type Candidate 

Site Number of Samples

Parameters / 

Analyses

Collection 

Method1

Site = 4 tows

Total = 8 samples

Macroepifauna South Site Additional Tows if Time Permits

Total Biomass

Taxonomic ID

Species Richness

Other Indices

Otter trawl

In Situ Water 

Parameters

North and 

South Sites

1 Station per Site (within boundaries)

+ 2 Stations Outside Each Site

Total = 6 Profiles

CTD Data2

Temperature

Salinity

Dissolved 

Oxygen

Turbidity

PAR

CTDprofiler

1 Details on collection methods are provided in Section 11.

2

ANAMAR/Paul Berman processing data.

Table 6-2: Fall 2010 Field Sampling and Analysis Scheme for Jacksonville ODMDS 

Site Designation Sampling Event

Sample Type Candidate 

Site Number of Samples Parameters / Analyses

Collection 

Method1

Sediment

Macroinfauna North

8 x 3 Replicates = 24

Total = 24 samples

Taxonomic ID

Various Indices

Biomass

Grab

Sediment

Macroinfauna South

10 Stations (4 previous + 6 New) to 

Match Sediment Stations x 3 Replicates

Total = 30 Samples

Taxonomic ID

Various Indices

Biomass

Grab

Macroepifauna North

2 Stations x 2 Replicate Tows Inside 

Site = 4 Tows

2 Stations x 2 Replicate Tows Outside 

Site = 4 tows

Total = 8 samples

Total Biomass

Taxonomic ID

Species Richness

Other Indices

Otter trawl

Macroepifauna South

2 Stations x 2 Replicate Tows Inside 

Site = 4 Tows

2 Stations x 2 Replicate Tows Outside

Site = 4 tows

Total = 8 samples

Total Biomass

Taxonomic ID

Species Richness

Other Indices

Otter trawl

Macroepifauna South Additional Tows if Time Permits

Total Biomass

Taxonomic ID

Species Richness

Other Indices

Otter trawl

Macroepifaunal 

Tissue Analyses

North and 

South Sites

4 samples x 2 species + 1 field dup = 

9 per site

Metals

PCBs

PAHs

Samples 

processed 

at 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 6.0, Element A6: Dredging Project/Task Description

24

Sample Type Candidate 

Site Number of Samples Parameters / Analyses

Collection 

Method1

Total = 18 samples between the 2 sites

TBD or Same as Above

Pesticides laboratory

In Situ Water 

Parameters

North and 

South Sites

1 Station per Site (within boundaries) 

+ 2 Stations Outside Each Site

Total = 6 Profiles

CTD Data2

Temperature

Salinity

Dissolved 

Oxygen

Turbidity

PAR

CTDprofiler

Water Quality

North and 

South Sites

2 Stations (flood and ebb) per Site x 2 

Samples per Station (1 sample above 

thermocline and 1 sample near 

bottom)

+ 1 field duplicate per site

Total = 9 samples

Metals

PAHs

Pesticides

PCBs

TSS

Niskin 

Bottles

1 Details on collection methods are provided in Section 11.

2

ANAMAR/Paul Berman processing data.

6.2.2. Applicable Technical Quality Standards or Criteria 

Physicochemical Sediment Analysis—Sediment results will be compared to published 

sediment screening values where appropriate. These levels are the threshold effect level (TEL) 

and the effects range-low (ERL). The TEL represents the concentration below which adverse 

effects are expected to occur only rarely. The ERL is the value at which toxicity may begin to 

be observed in sensitive species (Buchman 2008). Comparisons will be used for reference only 

and are not intended for any regulatory decisions. The main objective of the sediment physical 

and chemical analyses is to help provide characteristics from which to compare the two

candidate sites.

Sediment Macroinfauna Survey— In this document, the term ‘macroinfauna’ refers to those 

organisms greater than 0.5 mm in length which live in sediment. Major taxonomic groups 

which fit the macroinfauna description include polychaete worms (e.g., lugworms, sandworms), 

bivalve molluscs (e.g., scallops, clams, oysters, mussels), amphipod crustaceans (also known as 

scuds), and sipunculid worms (also known as peanut worms).

Data derived from the benthic macroinvertebrate (>0.5 mm size) infaunal community study is 

intended to help determine the biological characteristics of each proposed ODMDS site. Results 

of the study will be included in the preparation of an Environmental Impact Statement (EIS) 

where potential impacts will be assessed and discussed.

Macroepifauna Survey—In this document, the term ‘macroepifauna’ or ‘epifauna’ refers to 

those organisms which live and/or feed primarily on or near the seafloor and which are of a size 

which allows capture and retention in a 7.3-meter otter trawl. Organisms fitting this description 

include echinoderms, shrimps, lobsters, crabs, and demersal (both benthic and benthopelagic) 

fishes.
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 6.0, Element A6: Dredging Project/Task Description

25

Results of the trawl-based macroepifaunal survey are intended to assess the invertebrate 

community and fish assemblages associated with the seafloor. Similar to the macroinfauna 

survey, these data are intended to characterize each site and be used to compare the two

candidate sites. These data will additionally be included in an EIS. Results of tissue analysis of 

selected fish and invertebrate species are intended to assist with the comparison of the two

candidate sites.

Physicochemical Water Studies—In situ parameters and water quality results will be used 

to characterize each site. These data will be included in comparisons of the two candidate 

sites. Additionally, these data will be used in future Automated Dredging and Disposal 

Alternatives Modeling System Simulations for dredged material disposal events to document 

compliance with EPA marine water quality criteria.

6.2.3. Special Personnel or Equipment Requirements That May Indicate 

the Complexity of the Dredging Project

Use of the OSV Bold will be required for performing surveys. The sampling equipment will be 

operated by Bold personnel. In addition to personnel provided by EPA and USACE, two senior 

scientists and one fish biologist will be provided by ANAMAR for the spring 2010 survey. One 

senior scientist and one fish biologist will be provided by ANAMAR for the fall 2010 survey. 

ANAMAR may will also provide two collection technicians from the Florida Museum of Natural 

History having suitable specialized profession training which qualifies them to help sort 

macroepifaunal samples, and will be directly supervised by an ANAMAR scientist.

6.2.4. Assessment Techniques Needed for Site Designation Studies

Sediment Physicochemical Analysis—Sediment collected will be analyzed for physical and 

chemical parameters in the laboratory and then validated against criteria established in this 

document. The assessment techniques stated in sections 20 and 23 are adequate to provide 

sufficient assurance that the quality objectives of the project will be met.

Sediment Macroinfauna Survey—Benthic infaunal invertebrates greater than 0.5 mm 

collected in benthic grab samples will be sorted and identified to lower taxonomic group in the 

laboratory at Barry A. Vittor & Associates, Inc. and will be assessed using techniques stated in 

sections 20 and 23 of this document. The information contained within these sections is 

designed to provide adequate assurance that quality objectives will be met. 

Macroepifauna Survey—Epibenthic invertebrates and demersal fishes collected during the 

otter trawl survey will be sorted and determined to lowest taxonomic group by ANAMAR 

scientists. The assessment techniques discussed in sections 20 and 23 of this document are 

designed to meet quality objectives of the project.

In Situ Water Parameters—In situ water parameters will be recorded using a CTD profiler 

during field operations aboard the OSV Bold. Data recorded with the CTD will be postprocessed back in the office. Assessment techniques will include those stated in sections 20 

and 23 of this document and are designed to provide sufficient assurance that quality objectives 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 6.0, Element A6: Dredging Project/Task Description

26

of the project will be met.

Water Chemistry Analysis—Water samples from each candidate site will be collected and 

sent to Columbia Analytical Services, Inc. for laboratory analysis of selected chemical 

components using analytical methods specified in Section 13 of this document. Assessment 

techniques used in water analyses are stated in sections 20 and 23 of this document and are 

designed to provide sufficient assurance that quality objectives of the project will be met.

6.2.5. Schedule for the Work Performed

The spring 2010 survey is planned for the period March 28–April 2, 2010. The fall 2010 survey 

is planned for the period September 13–18, 2010. The following table provides an estimated 

schedule for the completion of the work.

Table 6-3: Estimated Schedule of Work Performed 

Responsibility

Estimated Schedule for 

Sampling/Testing/Reporting Estimated Date

ANAMAR Submit draft SAP/QAPP to EPA and USACE for 

approval. Allow FDEP to comment

March 2010

ANAMAR Address comments and finalize SAP/QAPP March 2010

USACE/EPA/ANAMAR Conduct spring 2010 site designation study March 28–April 2, 2010

ANAMAR Submit sediment, water, and macroinfaunal 

samples to laboratories for analysis 

April 2010

Laboratories (see section 4.3) Submit spring 2010 analytical reports to 

ANAMAR

July 2010

ANAMAR Review data from spring sampling event: 

analytical reports, begin compiling data tables, 

maps, and figures.

July–August 2010

USACE/EPA/ANAMAR Conduct fall 2010 site designation study September 13–18, 2010

ANAMAR Submit macroinfauna and tissue samples to 

laboratories for analysis 

September 2010

Laboratories (see section 4.3) Submit fall 2010 analytical reports to ANAMAR December 2010

ANAMAR Review analytical reports, compile data tables, 

maps, and figures, and produce draft report 

for submission to USACE/EPA

Early January 2011

USACE and EPA Review draft report and submit comments to 

ANAMAR

January 2011

ANAMAR Respond to comments by USACE and EPA January–February 2011

ANAMAR Submit final report containing results of both 

studies to USACE/EPA 

February 2011

6.2.6. Required Deliverables/Reports

The following documents must be submitted:

1. Draft Sampling and Analysis Plan/Quality Assurance Project Plan (SAP/QAPP) submitted 

for review and comment. 

2. Final SAP/QAPP following update from comments for final approval prior to sampling. 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 6.0, Element A6: Dredging Project/Task Description

27

3. Field paperwork includes field sheets, Daily Quality Control Report, calibration sheets, 

etc. These sheets are described in Table 12-1 and are provided in Appendix B of this 

document. They are also provided as an electronic attachment on a compact disk.

4. Chemical Quality Assurance Report (CQAR). The CQAR is used to evaluate all of the 

representative data from the project field sampling and laboratory analyses. For each 

group of data, a data review checklist is completed that assesses daily field QC reports 

and specific QC chemical data quality indicators, and it enables the reviewer to identify 

potential data problem areas that may require additional data validation. The Quality 

Assurance Report identifies non-conformances, QC deficiencies, or other problems that 

would impact the data quality objectives as specified in the work plan and the QAPP. 

The CQAR summarizes the overall usability of the data for the intended purposes. This 

report will be an appendix to the Final Report.

5. Draft Report submitted for review and comment—this report must include all supporting 

documentation, including field paperwork, laboratory reports, the chemical quality 

assurance report, and all correspondences among ANAMAR, USACE, and EPA which 

address any modifications to the project.

6. Once approved by USACE and EPA, the Final Report will be submitted which will address 

all comments.
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 7.0, Element A7: Quality Objectives and Criteria for Measurement Data

28

7.0 ELEMENT A7 - QUALITY OBJECTIVES AND CRITERIA FOR MEASUREMENT 

DATA

Table 7-1: Data Quality Objectives for Sediment, Water, and Tissue Analyses

Parameter

QC 

Measurement Frequency Acceptance Criteria

Storage/Holding 

Times

All organic 

analyses

PAHs, PCBs, 

and 

pesticides 

(including 

tissue 

analysis)

MB 1 per 20 samples or 1 

per batch up to 20 

samples

No analyte should be 

detected > RL

14 days until 

extraction, 40 

days thereafter

MS/MSD 1 set per 20 samples 

or 1 set per batch up 

to 20 samples

70–130% for spike limits

30% RSD for precision

Duplicate 1 per 20 samples or 1 

per batch up to 20 

samples

30% RSD for precision 

(Evaluated for analytes 

>300% RL)

SRM** 1 per 20 samples or 1 

per batch up to 20 

samples

Within limits specified by 

provider (Evaluated for 

analytes >300% RL)

ICV Immediately following 

calibration curve

80–120% Recovery

CCV Minimum—one per 10 

samples and at the 

end of each batch 

whenever batch is 

greater than 10 or for 

GC/MS at the 

beginning of every 12 

hours 

RRF or RF ≤25% for 

GC/MS methods and 

≤15% for all other 

methods

Surrogates Every sample 30–150% Recovery

Internal 

Standard

Every sample, where 

applicable

50–200% Recovery

IC Verify after each initial 

calibration

<20% RSD for each 

analyte or RF ≤30% for 

GC/MS

MDL Verify MDL study 

once per year for 

each analyte of 

interest

Updated annually

Metals

(including 

tissue 

analysis)

MB 1 per 20 samples or 1 

per batch up to 20 

samples

No analyte should be 

detected > RL

180 days

MS/MSD 1 set per 20 samples 

or 1 set per batch, up 

to 20 samples

70–130% for spike limits
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 7.0, Element A7: Quality Objectives and Criteria for Measurement Data

29

Parameter

QC 

Measurement Frequency Acceptance Criteria

Storage/Holding 

Times

Duplicate 1 per 20 samples or 1 

per batch up to 20 

samples

30% RSD (Evaluated for 

analytes >300% RL)

SRM 1 per 20 samples or 1 

per batch up to 20 

samples

70–130% Recovery 

(Evaluated for analytes 

>3x RL)

LCS/LFB 1 per 20 samples or 1 

per batch up to 20 

samples

70–130% Recovery

ICV Immediately following 

calibration curve

90–110% Recovery

CCV Minimum—one per 10 

samples and at the 

end of each batch 

whenever batch is 

greater than 10

90–110% Recovery

LDR Verify LDR once per 

quarter for ICP 

analysis and one time 

for mercury analysis

Refer to frequency

Initial Calibration 

for AA, Hg

Performed daily Correlation coefficient ≥ 

0.995

MDL Verify MDL study 

once per year for 

each analyte of 

interest

Updated annually

ICB Immediately after 

initial calibration

No analyte should be 

detected > RL

TOC MB 1 per 20 samples or 1 

per batch up to 20 

samples

No analyte should be 

detected > RL

28 days

MS/MSD 1 set per 20 samples 

or 1 set per batch up 

to 20 samples

75–125% for spike limits

20% RSD for precision 

(Evaluated for analytes 

>300% RL)

Triplicate 1 per 20 samples or 1 

per batch up to 20 

samples

20% RSD for precision 

(Evaluated for analytes 

>300% RL)
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 7.0, Element A7: Quality Objectives and Criteria for Measurement Data

30

Parameter

QC 

Measurement Frequency Acceptance Criteria

Storage/Holding 

Times

SRM* 1 per 20 samples or 1 

per batch up to 20 

samples

Within limits specified by 

provider (Evaluated for 

analytes >300% RL)

ICV Immediately following 

calibration curve

80–120% Recovery

CCV Minimum – one per 

10 samples and at the 

end of each batch 

whenever batch is 

greater than 10

90–110% Recovery

IC Verify after each initial 

calibration

CC > 0.9950 for all 

calibrations

MDL Verify MDL study 

once per year for 

each analyte of 

interest

Updated annually

Grain Size Triplicate 1 set per 20 samples 

or per batch

<20% RSD Undetermined

* If SRMs are not available, use laboratory control samples.

Table 7-2: Data Quality Objectives for Enumeration and Taxonomy of 

Invertebrates and Fishes

Parameter

QC 

Measurement Frequency Acceptance Criteria

Storage/Holding

Times

Verification of 

Taxonomic 

Identification 

and 

Enumeration

Macroinfauna 

(invertebrates)

>10% of samples 

sorted by each person 

will be re-sorted and 

re-identified by a 

qualified taxonomist 

>95% accuracy of sorting 

and identification

Undetermined 

(not critical)

Macroepifauna 

(Invertebrates)

10% of 

specimens/station reidentified by qualified 

biologist

Zero (0) misidentifications Undetermined 

(not critical)

Macroepifauna 

(Fishes)

10% of 

specimens/station reidentified by qualified 

biologist

Zero (0) misidentifications Undetermined

(not critical)
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 8.0, Element A8: Special Training Requirements/Certification

31

8.0 ELEMENT A8 - SPECIAL TRAINING REQUIREMENTS/CERTIFICATION 

All sampling and field work will conform to the USACE Safety Manual EM 385-1-1 (USACE 

2003).

All members of the sampling crew shall be trained in the correct procedures to ensure the 

samples collected are representative of the area and are not contaminated during handling. 

This training shall occur prior to any sampling. EPA will address all sampling procedures, while 

ANAMAR will address procedures for sample handling directly related to homogenizing and 

compositing the sediment, and placing in sample containers. Taxonomic identification and 

enumeration of benthic macroepifauna will be performed by a staff biologist specifically 

qualified through a combination of formal training and professional experience to execute such 

tasks.

All ANAMAR field personnel are trained in cardiopulmonary resuscitation (CPR) and first aid. 

Certification must be updated annually for CPR and every three years for first aid. This training 

is required for anyone participating in field work. Training records are maintained at ANAMAR 

headquarters and each employee is provided with a card to carry indicating their training. 

All laboratory personnel are required by NELAC to have a signed, dated initial demonstration of 

capability for any analysis they perform. Each initial demonstration of capability is required to 

be updated annually. A document signed by the lab director, QA officer, and analyst is stored 

in the analyst’s records to verify both initial and continuing demonstration of capability.
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 9.0, Element A9: Documentation and Records

32

9.0 ELEMENT A9 - DOCUMENTATION AND RECORDS

9.1 Reporting of Results

Table 9-1: Laboratories Submitting Data for this Project

Laboratory Analyses to be 

Performed Data Package Description

ANAMAR In situ field 

parameters,

epifaunal 

invertebrates and 

fishes

ANAMAR will compile in situ data into data tables and 

submit as part of the report

Invertebrate and fish identification, enumeration, 

lengths, indices, etc. results summarized and discussed 

in report

Columbia 

Analytical 

Services

Metals, PAHs, 

PCBs, pesticides, 

TOC (sediment, 

water, tissue 

samples)

Data summary, initial calibration and verification, quality 

control including blanks, LCSs, duplicates, spikes, 

control limits, sample case narrative, and raw data 

package from instruments

MACTEC Physical 

parameters of 

Sediment

Data summary, quality control including duplicates and 

triplicates, and sample case narrative if applicable

Barry Vittor and 

Associates, Inc.

Macroinfaunal 

survey

Taxonomic identification and enumeration data 

summary, quality control, and narrative if applicable 

ANAMAR will provide a summary of each laboratory’s results as an appendix to the report. The 

tabular formatted summary will include sample identification, analyte, results, limits for 

comparison, and qualifiers. Due to their large size, all original laboratory results will be 

submitted only as electronic files. 

The data obtained will be presented in graphical, tabular, and/or written text as appropriate. 

The draft and final testing reports will undergo internal technical review and quality assurance 

review by persons with appropriate technical qualifications to ensure that the report meets the 

project requirements specified in the technical work plan and the QA goals. 

The report(s) will consist of standard size, 81⁄2-inch by 11-inch, pages with oversize figures or 

tables folded, if necessary, to this size. The report margins shall be suitable for use in a durable 

3-ring binder. A decimal numbering system will be used, with each section having a unique 

decimal designation. Reports that require extensive editing, have extensive errors, or are not in 

the required formats will be rejected and re-submittal will be required. All submittals shall be 

sent to USACE—Jacksonville District and EPA, Region 4. Any maps, drawings, figures, sketches, 

databases, spreadsheets, or text files prepared for this report shall be provided in both hard 

copy and digital form. 

The digital copies of reports and other text documents shall be provided in Microsoft Word 2000 

(or higher version). Spreadsheet files and data files shall be provided in Microsoft Excel 2000 

(or higher version) format. All text, spreadsheet, and database files shall be delivered in 

compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM) with ISO-9660 format. Level IV laboratory data 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 9.0, Element A9: Documentation and Records

33

shall be provided as Adobe Acrobat portable document format (PDF) files. 

Geographic data, including coordinates of all sampling stations, shall be provided in feet and 

projected into the Florida State Plane coordinate system.

One hardcopy and one electronic copy (provided on compact disk) of the final report shall be 

submitted to USACE—Jacksonville District and EPA, Region 4. Other interested agencies or 

persons may request a copy of the final report. This report will also be included as an appendix 

to the EIS that will be completed for the Jacksonville ODMDS site designation project.

9.2 Report Format

The following paragraphs represent the format for electronic files being delivered as part of any 

contract. These paragraphs do not specify content or what the electronic files should contain. 

The content or data represented should be specified in the scope of work.

1. Specifications for Digital Data. Any maps, drawings, figures, sketches, databases, 

spreadsheets, or text files prepared under the terms of this contract shall be provided in 

both hard copy and digital form, unless otherwise specified in the scope of work. The hard 

copy deliverables shall be defined in the body of the scope of work.

2. Text, Spreadsheet, and Database Files: The USACE—Jacksonville District standard 

computing software is Microsoft Office. Reports and other text documents shall be 

provided in Microsoft Word 2000 (or higher version) format and Adobe Acrobat Portable 

Document Format (PDF). Spreadsheet files shall be provided in Microsoft Excel 2000 (or 

higher version) format. Databases shall be provided in Microsoft Access format, unless 

otherwise specified in the scope of work. Prior to database development, the contractor 

shall provide the Government with a Technical Approach Document and Entity Relationship 

Diagram for approval which describes the contractor's technical approach to designing and 

developing the database. All text, spreadsheet, and database files shall be delivered on 

compact disk read-only memory (CD-ROM) with ISO-9660 format.

3. Digital Mapping and Data Standards: The USACE—Jacksonville District utilizes MicroStation 

for computer-aided design and drafting (CADD). Data provided must be readable by 

MicroStation SE or higher to provide design drawings, sketches, or figures. All digital files 

provided in MicroStation shall be provided in feet and projected into the Florida State Plane 

coordinate system. The maps shall use the GRS 1980 spheroid and the North American 

Datum of 1983 (NAD 83), and shall be provided on CD-ROMs.

4. Geographic Information System (GIS) Data Delivery Format

a. Digital geographic maps and the related digital information shall be developed using 

double precision and delivered in uncompressed ArcInfo export file format (.e00) 

using ArcInfo Version 8.0 or higher. USACE—Jacksonville District will also accept 

ArcView shapefiles (e.g., .shp, .shx, .dbf). These file formats are geographic 

information system software applications produced by the Environmental Systems 

Research Institute and are in the GIS software suite used by USACE—Jacksonville 

District and EPA, Region 4.

b. Digital geographic maps and the related digital information shall be usable on an 

IBM-compatible personal computer system using the Windows NT 4.0 or Windows 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 9.0, Element A9: Documentation and Records

34

2000 operating systems. This data shall be provided on compact disk read-only 

memory (CD-ROM) with ISO-9660 format.

5. General Digital Standard for CADD and GIS Files

a. Geographic data shall be provided in feet and projected into the Florida State Plane 

coordinate system. The maps shall use the GRS 1980 spheroid and NAD 83. 

Vertical upland topographic surveys shall use the North American Vertical Datum of 

1988 (NAVD 88). Hydrographic survey will reference the local dredging datum which 

will be provided in the project scope of services. No offsets shall be used. Each 

map layer or coverage shall have a projection file. Map or drawing scales will be 

determined by the Contracting Officer's Representative for the contract. Mapping 

accuracy for the agreed scales will conform to the American Society for 

Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing (ASPRS)Accuracy Standards for Large-Scale 

Maps and Interim Accuracy Standards for Large-Scale Maps (ASPRS 1991). Copies 

of the ASPRS Accuracy Standards can be obtained by contacting:

American Society for Photogrammetry and Remote Sensing

5410 Grosvenor Lane, Suite 210

Bethesda, Maryland 20814-2160

b. Geographic data must be provided in a form that does not require translation, 

preprocessing, or post processing before being used in the USACE’s system. 

However, the Contractor shall consult with the Government (specifically the 

Geographic Information Systems Coordinator) concerning the use of alternative 

delivery formats such as MicroStation SE or higher to provide design drawings, 

sketches, or figures. All digital files provided in MicroStation shall be in the same 

projection and use the same coordinate system, datum, and units as stated above, 

and shall be provided on CD-ROMs.

c. Geographic Data Structure: All geographic information shall be developed in a 

structure consistent with the Spatial Data Standards (SDS), Version 1.9or a higher 

version if available at the time of this project. The Contractor shall consult with the 

Government concerning modifications or additions to the SDS. The Government 

may approve modifications to the Standard if it is determined that SDS does not 

adequately address subject data sets. Copies of the SDS may be obtained by 

contacting:

Director, US Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station

Tri-Service CADD/GIS Technology Center

Attn: CEWES-IM-DA/Smith

3909 Halls Ferry Road

Vicksburg, Mississippi 39180-6199

d. Geographic Data Documentation: For each digital file delivered containing 

geographic information (regardless of format), the Contractor shall provide 

documentation consistent with the Content Standards for Digital Geospatial 

Metadata, June 1998 published by the Federal Geographic Data Committee. The 

documentation shall include but is not limited to the following: the name and 

description of the map layer or coverage, the source of the data and any related 

data quality information such as accuracy and time period of content, the type of 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 9.0, Element A9: Documentation and Records

35

data coverage (point, line, polygon, etc.), the field names of all attribute data and a 

description of each field name, the definition of all codes used in the data fields, the 

ranges of numeric fields and the meaning of these numeric ranges, the creation date 

of the map layer and the name of the person who created it. A point of contact shall 

be provided to answer technical questions. Metadata generation software, referred 

to as Document.aml, is available from ESRI for use with ArcInfo to help in the 

production of the required metadata. Corpsmet95 metadata software is available 

from the US Army Geospatial Clearinghouse at http://corpsgeo1.usace.army.mil/. 

Copies of the FGDC metadata standard can be obtained by contacting:

FGDC Secretariat

c/o U.S. Geological Survey

590 National Center

Reston, Virginia 22092

(703) 648-5514

FGDC metadata standards can also be found on the Internet at: 

http://www.fgdc.gov

e. Geographic Data Review: The digital geographic maps, related data, and text 

documents shall be included for review in the draft and final contract submittals. 

The reviews may include a visual demonstration of the geographic data on the 

Windows NT computer system in the Environmental Resources Section GIS Unit's. 

Actual installation of the digital data from the CD-ROM onto the computer will be 

conducted by GIS Unit personnel. However, the Contractor shall have a technical 

consultant available at each review to assist with any digital data discrepancies. The 

data will be analyzed for subject content and system compatibility. Review 

comments to data and text shall be incorporated by the Contractor prior to approval 

of the final submittal.

f. Ownership: All digital files, final hard-copy products, source data acquired for this 

project, and related materials, including that furnished by the Government, shall 

become the property of USACE—Jacksonville and will not be issued, distributed, or 

published by the Contractor.

9.3 Data Reporting Package Archiving and Retrieval

All reports, data, field sheets, correspondence, notes, field books, and any other documents 

associated with this project will be archived by the contractor for a minimum of five years from 

the date of the final report. Prior to disposal of any records, the contractor must contact the 

client (USACE—Jacksonville District) for authorization and direction in the disposal of said 

documents.
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 11.0, Element B2: Sampling and Methods Requirements

36

GROUP B. PROJECT MANAGEMENT

10.0 ELEMENT B1 - SAMPLING PROCESS DESIGN

10.1 Scheduled Project Activities, Including Measurement Activities

The spring 2010 survey is scheduled for the period March 28–April 2, 2010. The fall 2010 

survey is scheduled for the period September 13–18, 2010. Each survey is estimated to take 

four days plus one day of mobilization and one day of demobilization per survey.

Samples will be packed and transported to the respective laboratories immediately after return 

from the field.

10.2 Rationale for the Design

Sections 5.0 and 6.0 of this document describe the rationale for conducting these site 

designation studies. Sample sites and parameters were determined in accordance with 

guidance from Section 102 and 103 of the MPRSA and 40 CFR 228, Revised Procedural Guide 

for Designation Surveys of Ocean Dredged Material Disposal Sites (Pequegnat, 1990), and 

SERIM (USEPA and USACE 2008).

10.3 Design Assumptions

All sampling will be conducted under the direct supervision of EPA, Region 4 and ANAMAR. EPA 

and USACE will address any concerns with field sampling and the possible relocation of sample 

sites, including, but not limited to, the foreseen problems discussed below.

Possible foreseen problems and solutions include the following:

Problem: Rock at a depth not allowing sediment sample collection. 

Solution: Relocate sample location.

Problem: Heavy traffic in the sampling area limiting sample collection. 

Solution: Relocate sample location(s), postpone sampling, or sample around traffic (safety 

dependent).

Problem: Adverse weather (e.g., hurricane, lightning, heavy rain) and/or rough seas. 

Solution: Postpone sampling until the situation clears. 

All changes to the sampling protocol specified by this QAPP and the EPA QAPP will be logged on 

the field sheets. 

10.4 Procedures for Locating and Selecting Environmental Samples

Sample stations for the collection of sediment, water, faunal tissue, macroinfauna, and 

macroepifauna samples are listed below. Sample station locations within the study areas were 

determined by EPA and USACE—Jacksonville District. The sample identifications and 

coordinates are organized below in Tables 10-1 through 10-4.
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 11.0, Element B2: Sampling and Methods Requirements

37

Table 10-1: Sediment Sample Identifications and Station Coordinates

Sample ID Sample Type & Description Latitude 

(Dec. Degrees)

Longitude 

(Dec. Degrees)

JAX-Sp10-N02-Chem

North Candidate Site

Sediment Samples

30.50840910 81.3429191

JAX-Sp10-N03-Chem 30.49242385 81.3353077

JAX-Sp10-N04-Chem 30.49248986 81.3085738

JAX-Sp10-N06-Chem 30.47249195 81.3357043

JAX-Sp10-N07-Chem 30.47688254 81.3106165

JAX-Sp10-N08-Chem 30.46626911 81.2858312

JAX-Sp10-N09-Chem 30.44531565 81.2929732

JAX-Sp10-N10-Chem North Candidate Site Field Split TBD in Field TBD in Field

JAX-Sp10-S02-Chem

South Candidate Site

Sediment Samples

30.36311619 81.2873387

JAX-Sp10-S04-Chem 30.32153037 81.2966211

JAX-Sp10-S05-Chem 30.32230372 81.2841042

JAX-Sp10-S06-Chem 30.31529371 81.2933219

JAX-Sp10-S07-Chem 30.28450908 81.2723900

JAX-Sp10-S08-Chem 30.46626911 81.2858312

JAX-Sp10-S13-Chem 30.35000853 81.28421537

JAX-Sp10-S14-Chem South Candidate Site Field Split TBD in Field TBD in Field

Table 10-2: Macroinfaunal Sample Identifications and Station Coordinates

Sample ID1

Replicate2

ID

(3/Station)

Sample Type & Description Latitude (Deg., 

Dec. Min.)

Longitude 

(Deg., Dec. 

Min.)

JAX-[season]10-N01-INF

A

B

C

North Candidate Site:

8 Macroinfaunal Stations

3 Replicate Samples per Station

(24 total samples for this site)

30.53332466 81.3283426

JAX-[season]10-N02-INF

A

B

C

30.50840910 81.3429191

JAX-[season]10-N03-INF

A

B

C

30.49242385 81.3353077

JAX-[season]10-N04-INF

A

B

C

30.49248986 81.3085738

JAX-[season]10-N06-INF

A

B

C

30.47249195 81.3357043

JAX-[season]10-N07-INF

A

B

C

30.47688254 81.3106165

JAX-[season]10-N08-INF

A

B

C

30.46626911 81.2858312
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 11.0, Element B2: Sampling and Methods Requirements

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Sample ID1

Replicate2

ID

(3/Station)

Sample Type & Description Latitude (Deg., 

Dec. Min.)

Longitude 

(Deg., Dec. 

Min.)

JAX-[season]10-N09-INF

A

B

C

30.44531565 81.2929732

JAX-[season]10-S01-INF

A

B

C

South Candidate Site:

10 Macroinfaunal Stations

3 Replicate Samples per Station

(30 total samples for this site)

30.36370728 81.30309265

JAX-[season]10-S02-INF

A

B

C

30.36311619 81.2873387

JAX-[season]10-S04-INF

A

B

C

30.32153037 81.2966211

JAX-[season]10-S05-INF

A

B

C

30.32230372 81.2841042

JAX-[season]10-S06-INF

A

B

C

30.31529371 81.2933219

JAX-[season]10-S07-INF

A

B

C

30.28450908 81.2723900

JAX-[season]10-S08-INF

A

B

C

30.46626911 81.2858312

JAX-[season]10-S12-INF

A

B

C

30.33336315 81.29842003

JAX-[season]10-S13-INF

A

B

C

30.35000853 81.28421537

1

The ‘[season]’ portion of the sample ID will be filled in as ‘Sp’ for samples taken during the spring sampling event, 

and filled in as ‘Fa’ for samples taken during the fall sampling event. In this way, the samples can be easily 

distinguished between the two sampling events based on sample ID.

2

The replicate sample suffix will be added to each sample ID. For example, the first sample collected at Station 1 of 

the North Candidate Site during the spring sampling event will have the code ‘JAX-Sp10-N01-INF-A’ written or typed 

on the label. This code system is intended to allow easy differentiation between samples, including those taken in 

spring from those taken in fall.
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 11.0, Element B2: Sampling and Methods Requirements

39

Table 10-3: Macroepifaunal Sample Identifications and Station Coordinates

Sample ID1

Replicate2

ID

(2/Station)

Sample Type & Description Latitude 

(Deg., Dec. Min.)

Longitude 

(Deg., Dec. 

Min.)

JAX-[season]10-N02-EPI A

B

North Candidate Site:

4 Macroepifaunal Stations (2 

inside site and 2 outside site)

2 Replicate Tows per Station

(8 total samples for this site)

30.50840910 81.3429191

JAX-[season]10-N04-EPI A

B

30.49248986 81.3085738

JAX-[season]10-N06-EPI A

B

30.47249195 81.3357043

JAX-[season]10-N08-EPI A

B

30.46626911 81.2858312

JAX-[season]10-S02-EPI A

B

South Candidate Site:

4 Macroepifaunal Stations (2 

inside site and 2 outside site)

2 Replicate Tows per Station

(8 total samples for this site)

30.36311619 81.2873387

JAX-[season]10-S04-EPI A

B

30.32153037 81.2966211

JAX-[season]10-S05-EPI A

B

30.32230372 81.2841042

JAX-[season]10-S08-EPI A

B

30.46626911 81.2858312

JAX-[season]10-S12-EPI A

B South Candidate Site: 

1 or 2 Additional Stations to be 

Trawled if Time Permits

30.33336315 81.29842003

JAX-[season]10-S13-EPI A

B

30.35000853 81.28421537

1

The ‘[season]’ portion of the sample ID will be filled in as ‘Sp’ for samples taken during the spring sampling event, 

and filled in as ‘Fa’ for samples taken during the fall sampling event. In this way, the samples can be easily

distinguished between the two sampling events based on sample ID.

2

The replicate sample suffix will be added to each sample ID. For example, the first sample collected at Station 1 of 

the North Candidate Site during the spring sampling event will have the code ‘JAX-Sp10-N02-EPI-A’ written or typed 

on the label. This code system is intended to allow easy differentiation between samples, including those taken in 

spring from those taken in fall.
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 11.0, Element B2: Sampling and Methods Requirements

40

Table 10-4: In Situ (CTD-profiler) and Water Quality Station Identifications and 

Station Coordinates

Station ID1 Sample Type Longitude 

(Deg-Dec Min)

Longitude 

(Deg-Dec Min)

JAX-[season]10-N02-CTD North Candidate Site: In Situ Water Column 

(CTD-profiler) has 1 Station within the Site and 

2 Stations Outside the Site Boundaries

30.50840910 81.3429191

JAX-[season]10-N05-CTD 30.48289339 81.3224904

JAX-[season]10-N09-CTD 30.44531565 81.2929732

JAX-[season]10-S02-CTD

South Candidate Site: In Situ Water Column 

(CTD-profiler) has 1 Station Within the Site and 

4 Stations Outside the Site Boundaries

30.36311619 81.2873387

JAX-[season]10-S04-CTD 30.32153037 81.2966211

JAX-[season]10-S08-CTD 30.27672924 81.2879808

JAX-[season]10-S09-CTD 30.31821932 81.2641344

JAX-[season]10-S10-CTD 30.31717247 81.2649542

JAX-Fa10-N[xx]-WQ AT

BT North Candidate Site:

Water Quality 2 stations per site x 2 samples 

per station [1 sample above thermocline (‘AT’) 

and 1 sample below thermocline (‘BT’)] + 1 

field duplicate2per site

TBD TBD

JAX-Fa10-N[xx]-WQ AT

BT TBD TBD

JAX-Fa10-N[xx]-WQ

(field duplicate2)

AT TBD in Field TBD in Field

JAX-Fa10-N[xx]-WQ AT

BT North Candidate Site:

Water Quality 2 stations per site x 2 samples 

per station [1 sample above thermocline (‘AT’) 

and 1 sample below thermocline (‘BT’)] + 1 

field duplicate2per site

TBD TBD

JAX-Fa10-N[xx]-WQ AT

BT TBD TBD

JAX-Fa10-N[xx]-WQ 

(field duplicate2)

AT TBD in Field TBD in Field

1

The ‘[season]’ within each sample ID will be replaced with a two-digit code for the season during which the 

sampling event took place. For example, a March cruise collecting in situ data from the North Candidate Site, station 

1 will have the sample ID ‘JAX-Sp10-N02-CTD’. This code system is intended to allow easy differentiation between 

samples, including those taken in spring from those taken in fall.

2A field duplicate sample will be taken from each of the two candidate sites, and will be coded in a way that disallows 

the laboratory from learning which sample it duplicates.
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 11.0, Element B2: Sampling and Methods Requirements

41

Sample Analysis

Table 10-5 summarizes the analyte groups to be tested for this project: a complete list of 

analyses and methods is shown in Section 13.3.1.

Table 10-5 Sample Analysis Table

Parameters Sediment 

Samples

Water 

Quality 

Samples

Tissue 

Samples

Macroinfauna 

Samples

Macroepifauna 

Samples

Physical 

Analyses

Grain Size Y — — — —

TOC Y — — — —

Chemistry

Analyses

Metals Y Y Y — —

Pesticides Y Y Y — —

PCB Congeners Y Y? Y — —

PAHs Y Y Y — —

Taxonomic Analyses

Gross Wt. Biomass — — — Y Y

Taxonomic 

Identification* — — — Y Y

Species Richness — — — Y Y

Species Diversity — — — Y Y

Species Abundance — — — Y Y

Y = analysis will be performed.

— = analysis will not be performed/not required or not applicable.

* = Determination of organisms will be to the lowest practical taxonomic level, which in most cases will be to the 

species level.

Field Parameters

All field measurements (e.g., temperature, dissolved oxygen, salinity, turbidity, 

photosynthetically active radiation) will be made using a CTD-profiler aboard the OSV Bold. 

These data will be provided to ANAMAR for processing and submission in the draft and final 

reports.

10.5 Classification of Measurements as Critical or Noncritical

Not applicable.

10.6 Validation of Any Nonstandard Methods

No modifications to methods are expected in this project. Any modifications will be coordinated 

and approved by the USACE—Jacksonville District and EPA, Region 4 prior to implementation.
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 11.0, Element B2: Sampling and Methods Requirements

42

11.0 ELEMENT B2 – SAMPLING AND METHODS REQUIREMENTS

11.1 Describe the Sample Collection, Preparation, and Decontamination

Procedures

All sampling will be done according to published procedures. General field methodologies and 

procedures follow those outlined in the Green Book (USACE/EPA 1991) and procedures 

documented in the Florida Department of Environmental Protection Standard Operating 

Procedures for Field Activities (DEP-SOP-001/01). Quality assurance and quality control 

procedures are based on those described in USEPA (1995). Sediment collection and storage 

procedures are based on those described in USEPA (2001). Epifaunal and infaunal sampling 

materials and methods are based on those described in Pequegnat et al. (1990).

Field Sampling Schedule

It is expected that sampling will be performed in a span of four days at sea during the spring 

2010 sampling event and a similar time span during the fall 2010 sampling event. This 

schedule is dependent on several factors including but not limited to weather conditions, 

equipment functionality, and accessibility. Contact with facilities in the immediate area and 

local security forces (e.g., USGC) will be coordinated prior to mobilizing to the field by EPA and 

USACE. Contact information for all parties involved as well as local facilities and security forces 

will be distributed to all parties and will be on-hand in the field.

Sample Position Accuracy

GPS station coordinates and sample depths will be recorded at the time of sampling by 

equipment and personnel aboard the OSV Bold. All parametric measurements will be provided 

by EPA to ANAMAR for inclusion in the draft and final reports. For sediment and macroinfaunal 

sampling, actual sampling locations will be within a 50 m range of the sampling stations. Water 

quality samples will be taken within 200 m of the sampling station. Macroepifaunal transect 

starting points (i.e., when the trawl first reaches the seafloor) will be within 200 m of the 

sampling station, and the direction of travel will be away from the station.

Sediment Sampling

Site conditions such as prevailing weather, wind direction, air temperature, and tidal cycle will 

be documented at each sampling site. In situ measurements, water depth, date and time, 

coordinates, current conditions, sediment descriptions, number of containers, and team 

members will be recorded on project-specific field sheets. Sediment samples will be photodocumented directly after collecting. A Young-modified Van Veen grab sampler will be used to 

facilitate the extraction of sediment from the seafloor. The grab sampler, and all utensils used 

during the sediment sampling and bagging process, will be decontaminated between each 

sampling station. Decontamination procedures will follow those specified in Florida Department 

of Environmental Protection Cleaning/Decontamination Procedures (FC 1000).

Macroinfaunal Sampling

EPA, Region 4, in coordination with ANAMAR personnel, will collect a total of 54 macroinfaunal

samples per sampling event. Additional samples will be taken if time permits. Samples will be 

collected with a Young-modified Van Veen grab with an internal volume of approximately 0.04 

m

2

. Once on-deck, the sample will be inspected for signs of leakage from the grab sampler. If 

the grab sampler is determined to be less than full, the sample is discarded and another 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 11.0, Element B2: Sampling and Methods Requirements

43

attempt is made to gather a full grab of sediment. If the grab sampler is determined to be full, 

then the sample will be deposited into a stainless steel bin and carefully transferred into a 

standard US #35 mesh size (0.5 mm mesh size) sieve bucket. Each sample will be gently wetsieved through the sieve bucket until all particles smaller than 0.5 mm have passed through the 

screen. The remaining sediment and invertebrates are then gently washed into a cloth bag 

containing the sample label, and the bag is secured at the opening with two cable ties. Sample 

bags are then immediately placed into a bucket containing a fixative. Either undiluted 

NOTOXhisto (if provided by EPA), or a 10% buffered formalin solution (supplied by ANAMAR) 

will be used as a fixative in infaunal sample buckets. Buckets will be labeled as to the samples 

contained within each. The samples will be shipped to Barry A. Vittor & Associates, Inc. for 

sorting and analysis following completion of each sampling event.

Macroepifaunal Sampling

Invertebrates and fishes will be collected in a 7.3 m wide otter trawl, with a liner of 14 mm 

stretch mesh in the bag end, during macroepifaunal sampling in both the spring and fall 2010 

sampling events. During each sampling event, tows will be conducted in each candidate site for 

a total of 16 trawl samples collected per event. Each sample will consist of a 10-minute tow at 

a speed of between 1.5 knots and 2 knots. This should provide a sampling area of 

approximately 11,110 m2to 11550 m2of seafloor coverage per tow, provided the trawl doors 

are positioned 7.3 m apart with the lead line touching the seafloor throughout the 10-minute 

tow. Towing times may be modified somewhat if catch rates are deemed too low for adequate 

data gathering, or if too much biomass is contained within the bag, hindering analysis. Efforts 

will be made to tow after dark as well as during the day at each trawl station in order to more 

fully represent the benthic community. Spatial coordinates will be recorded at the beginning 

and at the end of each tow, along with the direction of travel, water depth, tide sequence, 

estimated substrate, and weather parameters. Upon completion of each tow, specimens will be 

carefully and thoroughly removed from the trawl net and bag, taking care not to overlook any 

still contained in the net (to avoid cross-contamination between samples). Each trawl sample 

will then be weighed (wet weight) using a 5-gallon plastic bucket with drain holes drilled in it 

and either a 5-kg or 20-kg hanging Macro Line scale having an accuracy of within 0.3% of 

maximum weight. The specimens will be taxonomically identified and enumerated, and the first 

10 individual fish per species from each tow will be measured. Fish measurements will consist 

of standard length for teleosts, precaudal length for sharks, total length for skates, and disk 

width for stingrays. Selected invertebrate species will be measured if time permits, and these 

measurements may include valve length in selected clam and scallop species, carapace width 

for selected crab species, and carapace length for selected shrimp species. All data will be 

recorded on project-specific epifaunal field sheets.

During the fall sampling survey, a total of 18 invertebrate and fish specimens will be selected 

for tissue sampling. Using decontaminated stainless steel fillet knifes and forceps, tissue 

samples will be extracted from muscle tissue (e.g., fillet of fish, tail of shrimp, claw of crab). A

10-gram portion of tissue will be used for metal analysis, a 20-gram portion for PCBs and 

chlorinated pesticides, and a 10-gram portion will be taken to test for PAHs [totaling 40 grams 

(1.4 ounces) of tissue]. If the specimens are too small for all tissue portions, multiple 

specimens of the same species will be used from the same trawl sample. A total of two field 

duplicate tissue samples will be taken for laboratory quality control purposes. In additional to 

the field duplicate samples, two of the remaining tissue samples will need to weigh at least 120-
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 11.0, Element B2: Sampling and Methods Requirements

44

grams each and will be used for laboratory quality control and triplicate runs of various 

analytes. Tissue samples will be individually wrapped in clean aluminum foil, a label affixed on 

the outside of the foil, and then bagged in gallon-sized Ziploc®bags and quickly placed in an 

onboard freezer for thermal preservation at or below 0°C. The tissue samples will be kept 

frozen for later delivery to the CAS laboratory.

Upon completion field sorting and identification of trawl specimens, representative specimens of 

each fish species caught will be placed in a 5 gallon bucket and a fixative added so that there is 

more fixative than biomass in each bucket. A solution of 10% buffered formalin (1 part 

formalin to 9 parts seawater) will be used as the fixative. Fishes that measure more than 15-

cm in length will be injected with 10% buffered formalin prior to being added to the bucket, in 

an effort to prevent internal decay. Each bucket will then be sealed using a secure-fitting, 

water-tight lid. A separate bucket will be used per trawl sample, and a label will be added to 

the solution and another label affixed to the outside of the bucket. Invertebrate specimens will 

be relaxed (if appropriate) using a chemical supplied by the Florida Museum of Natural History, 

Invertebrate Zoology Collection, and placed in 50–70% ethanol for long-term storage. 

Invertebrate and fish preserved specimens and associated field data will later be deposited and 

archived at the Florida Museum of Natural History Ichthyology and Invertebrate Zoology 

collections to serve as vouchers and to allow further study by interested researchers.

Physicochemical Studies of the Water Column

During the spring and fall sampling events, in situ water parameters such as temperature, 

salinity, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, and photosynthetically active radiation will be obtained 

throughout the water column in each candidate site. Additional sampling will be conducted at 

stations located around the candidate sites, to be chosen while in the field based on prevailing 

current direction and influence of the St. Johns River. Data will be recorded via a conductivity, 

temperature, and depth profiler (CTD-profiler) supplied by EPA. Data obtained using the CTDprofiler will be given to ANAMAR for post-processing and to be used in a later report. Postprocessing will be facilitated with Sea-Bird SBE data processing software. Technicians onboard 

the OSV Bold are responsible for maintenance and calibration of the CTD-profiler.

In addition to the CTD data, water quality samples will be collected from each of the two

candidate sites during the fall 2010 cruise. In each site, samples will be collected from above 

the thermocline and below the thermocline near the substrate. One field duplicate sample will 

also be taken at each candidate site. Water sampling bottles, attached in a rosette within a 

carousel sampling unit, will be supplied by the OSV Bold, while various pre-cleaned collection 

containers will be supplied by ANAMAR. Collection containers will include various pre-cleaned 

glass and/or plastic bottles. All water samples will be stored at less than 4 ̊C on wet ice inside 

coolers and/or in a refrigerated unit for thermal preservation until delivered to the CAS 

laboratory immediately following completion of the spring sampling event. 

Field Conditions

Site conditions such as prevailing weather, wind direction, air temperature, and tidal cycle will 

be documented at each sampling site. In situ measurements, depth, date and time, 

coordinates, current conditions, sample descriptions, number of containers, and team members 

will be recorded on project-specific field sheets. 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 11.0, Element B2: Sampling and Methods Requirements

45

Decontamination

All equipment contacting sediment or water samples will be cleaned and decontaminated as 

described in Florida Department of Environmental Protection Cleaning/Decontamination 

procedures (FC 1000). Below is a summarized list of procedures. Work surfaces on the 

sampling vessel will cleaned before the sampling day begins and before leaving each station. 

Decontamination of all sampling handling equipment, along with the Young-modified Van Veen 

grab sampler and water quality sampling bottles, will occur before mobilization and between 

sampling stations in order to prevent any contamination of samples.

Decontamination Procedures

Wash and scrub to remove gross contamination

Wash and scrub with Liquinox®

Rinse with tap or site water (depending on availability)

Rinse with deionized water

2X Rinse with pesticide grade isopropanol

2X Rinse with deionized water

Air dry

Storage wrapped in new, clean aluminum foil

Any derived waste will be contained and disposed of in accordance with federal, state, and local 

laws.

Field Splits/Duplicates

Of the sediment samples, a total of four field split samples will be collected during the spring

2010 sampling event for use in quality control and quality assurance with physical and chemical 

laboratory analyses. These field split sediment samples will be divided into 1 field split for the 

North Candidate Site, and one for the South Candidate Site. A total of two field duplicate 

macroepifaunal tissue samples will be collected during the fall sampling event. One water 

quality field duplicate sample will be collected from each candidate site during the fall sampling 

event. The field split samples and field duplicate samples will be given unique identification 

codes from that of the native in order to ensure the samples are blind to the laboratories 

conducting the analyses.

Sample Homogenization

Sediment samples will be homogenized in the field. Each sample will be thoroughly mixed 

using stainless steel spoons which have been decontaminated prior to use. Samples for 

physical and chemical testing will be transferred to appropriate sample containers and labeled 

with the corresponding sample identification code, date, and sampler(s) initials. 

Sample Handling Prior to Shipment to Laboratories

After collection, the samples will be immediately placed in properly labeled containers, and 

samples requiring thermal preservation will be stored in coolers and/or within one or more cold 

storage rooms onboard the OSV Bold. The temperature of the cold storage room(s) will be 

checked twice daily, once in the morning and once in the late afternoon or early evening, to 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 11.0, Element B2: Sampling and Methods Requirements

46

ensure compliance with EPA storage requirements. If the temperature in cold storage remains 

slightly above 4 ̊C (5–6 ̊C) for two consecutive readings, or if one reading is above 8 ̊C, wet ice 

will be placed on and around the samples. 

Macroepifaunal tissue samples will be stored at or below 0 ̊C (frozen) inside a freezer onboard 

the OSV Bold. Macroinfaunal samples will be stored without thermal preservation, within an 

aqueous solution of NOTOXhisto fixative. Representative specimens from the macroepifaunal 

samples will be stored in a solution of 10% buffered formalin within 5-gallon plastic buckets.

During transport from the field to ANAMAR headquarters, all samples requiring thermal 

preseration will be maintained at less than 4 ̊C, with the exception of the tissue samples, which 

will be maintained at approximately 0 ̊C (frozen). ANAMAR will utilize wet ice and/or a 

refrigerated trailer for thermal preservation of sediment and water samples. Temperatures will 

be checked twice daily and will follow the guidelines shown below in Sample Storage and 

Transport for acceptance criteria and corrective action. Tissue samples will be stored within a 

freezer while at ANAMAR headquarters and prior to shipment. 

Representative macroepifaunal fish specimens will be stored in a solution of 10% buffered 

formalin in 5-gallon plastic buckets with tight-fitting lids during transport to ANAMAR 

headquarters. Invertebrates captured during macroepifaunal surveys will be stored and 

transported in 50–70% ethanol inside 5-gallon plastic buckets with tight-fitting lids. 

Macroinfaunal samples will be stored and transported in undiluted NOTOXhisto fixative inside 5-

gallon buckets. Macroinfaunal samples will then be quickly shipped to Barry A. Vittor & 

Associates, Inc. Macroepifaunal samples will be stored at ANAMAR until final species 

determinations are made, at which time representative specimens and associated data will be 

deposited at the Ichthyology and Invertebrate Zoology collections at the Florida Museum of 

Natural History in Gainesville, Florida. 

Sample Storage and Transport 

Chain-of-custody forms will be filled out and will accompany samples at all times during 

transport from ANAMAR headquarters to the respective laboratory. The forms will note the 

sample ID and date and time of collection. Each sample will have a unique alphanumeric code 

assigned to it which corresponds to those written on the corresponding field sheets. The 

samples will be identified as specified in Tables 10-1 through 10-4. After samples will be logged 

in at the laboratory and assigned a unique laboratory ID number, they will be stored, handled, 

processed, and analyzed as described in the Quality Assurance Manuals and/or Standard 

Operating Procedures (SOPs) of the testing laboratories. Transport of samples from the port at 

Jacksonville to ANAMAR headquarters in Gainesville will be accomplished using vehicles.

11.2 Identify Support Facilities for Sampling Methods

All sampling will be conducted according to published procedures.

All sampling will be conducted aboard the OSV Bold. A former navy ship (ex-USNS Bold, 

originally the USNS Vigorous), the Bold is now equipped for ocean and coastal monitoring and 

has been owned and operated by the EPA since March 2004. This 224-foot long vessel has a 

43-foot beam and a 15-foot draft and a hull displacement of 2,300-tons. This vessel has a 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 11.0, Element B2: Sampling and Methods Requirements

47

sustained speed of 11-knots, has an operating crew of 19, and can sleep 20 visiting scientists. 

The OSV Bold is equipped for all sampling discussed in this document, including the collection 

of sediment, water, macroinfauna, and macroepifauna samples. Onboard facilities include 

laboratories designed to allow processing and analyzing of samples, and refrigerated units for 

thermal protected sample storage (EPA 2010).

ANAMAR will use sampling equipment aboard the Bold for collecting samples of sediment, 

macroinfauna, macroepifauna, and water quality along with recording in situ water column 

readings. ANAMAR will provide stainless steel pans, mixers, sample containers, taxonomic 

literature, cameras, scales, measuring devices, certain fixatives, labels, field sheets, and coolers 

for use with various samples.

Table 11-1: Standard Operating Procedures Used During Sampling

Standard 

Operating 

Procedure Description Sections Referenced

FD 1000 Documentation Procedures Sections FD 1100, FD 1200, FD 2000, 

FD 3000, FD 4000, FD 4100, FD 5000, 

FD 5100, FD 5200

FC 1000 Cleaning/Decontamination Procedure The applicable information from this 

SOP is shown in Section 11.1 of this 

QAPP

FS 2000 General Aqueous Sampling Sections FS 2000, FS 2001, FS 2002, 

FS 2003

FS 4000 Sediment Sampling Sections 1–3, Table FS 4000-1

11.3 Describe Sampling/Measurement System Failure Response and 

Corrective Action Process

Any event that does not conform to the QAPP, SOPs, or SAP is considered a nonconformance 

event. Any such event will be identified as quickly as possible and reported to the project 

manager (PM) as soon as practical. If a nonconformance event happens in the fieldwork 

portion of this project, it will be documented in the DQCR. The project director and/or project 

manager will confer with EPA and USACE—Jacksonville to outline a procedure for accomplishing 

the task so the quality of the project is not compromised. Every effort will be taken to contact 

the USACE representative prior to any deviation from the above-mentioned procedures.

11.4 Describe Sampling Equipment, Sample Preservation, and Holding Times 

Sediment

Sediment samples will be collected using a stainless steel grab sampler supplied by EPA. Once 

each sample is collected, it will first be placed into a decontaminated stainless steel bin. This 

will allow for the sediment to be categorized and photo-documented, and allow the Contractor 

to determine if there is excess water or material that should be removed, such as live 

organisms, debris, or material which is not consistent with the overall nature of the sediment. 

Once the material is properly categorized and all unusable material has been removed and 

documented, the sediment will be placed in Teflon®bags, decontaminated glass jars, or Ziploc®

bags for transport. 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 11.0, Element B2: Sampling and Methods Requirements

48

Any sampling device or material coming into contact, at any time, with a sample will first be 

decontaminated as described in Section 11.1 and made of an approved material (e.g., Teflon®, 

stainless steel, glass). 

Sediment samples for physical analysis shall be placed in 1-gallon Ziploc®bags. Each sample 

will be double-bagged, and the zippered opening further secured with duct tape, to decrease 

the chance of loss of sample.

Macroinfauna

Samples will be collected with a Young-modified Van Veen grab sampler with a sampling area of 

approximately 0.04 m

2

. The samples will be gently wet-sieved through a sieve bucket (0.5-mm 

mesh), photo-documented, and decanted into a cloth bag containing the sample label. Each 

cloth-bagged sample will then be placed into a 5-gallon plastic bucket containing undiluted 

NOTOXhisto (if provided by EPA), or 10% buffered formalin solution (provided by ANAMAR). 

The buffered formalin solution, if used instead of NOTOXhisto, will consist of 9 parts seawater 

and 1 part full-strength formalin. There is no thermal requirement for these samples once 

submerged in fixative, and samples are planned to be stored at ambient temperature during the 

sampling event and subsequent transport to ANAMAR headquarters. The samples will be 

shipped to the Barry A. Vittor & Associates, Inc. for analysis following completion of each cruise. 

There is no holding time for these samples but ANAMAR intends to ship them to the laboratory 

soon after completion of each cruise.

Macroepifauna

Large epifaunal invertebrates and demersal fishes will be collected using an otter trawl having a 

head rope measuring 7.3-meters. This trawl will be supplied by EPA. After each tow, the trawl 

net will be brought aboard the Bold and specimens will be transferred into one or more clean 

bin. Scientists will inspect the net and pick out any remaining fauna with stainless steel forceps 

or nitrile-gloved hands. Every effort will be made to remove all captured fauna and debris from 

the net so as to greatly reduce the chance of cross-contamination between tow samples. Each 

trawl sample will then be weighed (wet weight) using a 5-gallon plastic bucket with drain holes 

and either a 5-kg or 20-kg hanging Macro Line scale with a accuracy of within 0.3% of 

maximum weight. In the event that significant amounts of non-benthic invertebrates (i.e., 

cannonball jellyfish, Stomolophus meleagrisor; Atlantic brief squid, Lolliguncula brevis) or fishes 

(i.e., bay anchovy, Anchoa mitchilli) are found within the net, the decision may be made to 

weigh these non-benthic animals separately from the remaining sample to facilitate a better

representation of the benthic community. Literature on identification and dichotomous keys will 

be used and will be supplied by ANAMAR. Field sorting and identification will be conducted 

onboard the Bold as time allows. The first 10 individual fish per species from each tow will be 

measured. Fish measurements will consist of standard length for teleosts, precaudal length for 

sharks, total length for skates, and disk width for stingrays. Selected invertebrate species will 

be measured if time permits, and these measurements may include valve length in selected 

clam and scallop species, carapace width for selected crab species, and carapace length for 

selected shrimp species. All data will be recorded on project-specific epifaunal field sheets. 

Upon completion of field sorting and identification, representative invertebrate and fish 

specimens (at least one specimen per species) will be retained for later verification of identity 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 11.0, Element B2: Sampling and Methods Requirements

49

and to provide a representative voucher series and to ensure taxonomic consistency. 

Invertebrates will be preserved in a solution of ethanol. Certain invertebrate taxa will first be 

immersed in a relaxing agent prior to preservation. Representative fish specimens will be

placed in a 5-gallon plastic bucket containing 10% buffered formalin solution (1 part full 

strength formalin to 9 parts seawater) as a fixative. Enough of the fixative will be added so 

that there is more solution than biomass. Fishes measuring more than 15-cm standard length 

will be injected with 10% formalin prior to being added to the bucket in an effort to reduce the 

chance of internal decay. A label will be added to the solution, and another label will be affixed 

to the outside of the bucket.

During the fall sampling event, muscle tissue samples will be obtained from selected 

invertebrate and fish specimens (e.g., fillet of fish, tail of shrimp, claw of crab) using 

decontaminated stainless steel fillet knifes and forceps. A 10-gram portion of tissue will be 

used for metal analysis, a 20-gram portion for PCBs and chlorinated pesticides, and 10-gram 

portion for PAHs, thus a total of 40-grams (1.4 ounces) will taken per specimen. If the 

specimens are too small to provide 40-grams of tissue, then multiple specimens will be used 

from the same species. A total of two field duplicate tissue samples will be taken during the fall 

sampling event to be used for laboratory quality control/quality assurance purposes. In 

additional to the field split samples, two of the remaining tissue samples will need to weigh at 

least 120-grams each and will be used for laboratory quality control and triplicate runs of 

various analytes. Each tissue sample will be individually wrapped in aluminum foil, a label will 

be affixed on the outside of the foil, and then bagged in a Ziploc®bag. The tissue samples will 

then be quickly frozen in an onboard freezer for thermal preservation at 0°C for later delivery to 

the CAS laboratory upon completion of the fall sampling event.

Upon completion of tissue sampling, the remaining trawl sample will be placed in a 5 gallon 

plastic bucket containing 10% buffered formalin solution (1 part full strength formalin to 9 parts 

seawater) as a fixative. Enough of the fixative will be added so that there is more solution than 

biomass. Fishes measuring more than 15-cm standard length will be injected with a fixative 

prior to being added to the bucket in an effort to reduce the chance of internal decay. A 

separate bucket will be used per trawl sample, and a label will be added to the solution along 

with another label affixed to the outside of the bucket.

Physicochemical Studies of the Water Column

In situ water parameters such as temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, and 

photosynthetically active radiation will be obtained throughout the water column using a 

conductivity, temperature, and depth profiler (CTD-profiler) supplied by EPA. Data obtained 

using the CTD will be given to ANAMAR for post processing and will be used in a later report.

In addition to the CTD data, water quality samples will be collected using water sampling 

bottles attached in a rosette within a carousel sampling unit supplied by the OSV Bold. The 

water sampling bottles will be decontaminated between each sampling station and during the

mobilization process to greatly reduce the chance of contamination of samples. Various precleaned collection bottle will be supplied by ANAMAR, including various pre-cleaned glass and/or 

plastic bottles. All water samples will be stored at less than 4 ̊C on wet ice inside coolers 

and/or in a refrigerated unit for thermal preservation until delivered to the CAS laboratory

immediately following the completion of the spring sampling event. 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 11.0, Element B2: Sampling and Methods Requirements

50

Table 11-2: Minimum Volume Requirements per Sample for Physical and Chemical 

Analysis

*For purposes of quality control in the laboratory, 2 samples will each consist of a 120-gram portion of tissue. This is 

three times the normal amount needed for metal and organic analysis. This is in addition to the 2 field split samples.

Table 11-3: Container Requirements for Sediment Samples for Chemical and 

Physical Analysis

MATRIX - SEDIMENT

Parameters Container Type and Size Analytical Holding Time

Physical Analyses Ziploc®bag 3.8 L Not critical

TOC Glass or 

Teflon® 120 ml 14 days

Metals Glass or 

Teflon® 120 ml 6 months for all metals except mercury; 30 days for mercury

Organics (pesticides, 

PAHs, PCBs)

Glass or 

Teflon® 1 L 14 days for extraction, 40 days after extraction for analysis

Table 11-4: Container Requirements for Water Samples for Chemical Analysis

MATRIX - WATER 

Parameters Container Type and Size Preservation Holding Time

Metals Teflon®

, glass, 

or plastic 1.5 L Nitric Acid to pH < 2

6 months for all metals 

except mercury; 14 days 

for mercury

Organics (pesticides 

and PAHs) Amber glass 4 L Cool to <4 ̊C

7 days for sample 

extraction, 40 days after 

extraction for analysis

Table 11-5: Container Requirements for Tissue Samples for Chemical Analysis

MATRIX - TISSUE 

Parameters Container Type and Size Preservation Holding Time

Metals

Teflon®, 

glass, plastic, 

or aluminum 

foil

<0.5 L Frozen Undetermined

Organics (pesticides, 

PAHs, PCBs)

Teflon®, glass, 

or aluminum <0.5 L Frozen Undetermined

Analytical Group Volume Sediment 

per Sample

Volume Water per 

Sample

Volume Tissue per 

Sample

Metals 120 ml 1.5 L 10 g wet weight*

Organics (pesticides, PAHs, PCBs) 1 L 4 L 30 g wet weight*

TOC 120 ml NA NA

Physical Analysis 1–2 L NA NA

Archive 500–1000 ml NA NA
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 11.0, Element B2: Sampling and Methods Requirements

51

foil

Table 11-6: Container Requirements for Macroinfaunal Samples for Taxonomic 

Analysis

Parameters Container Type and Size Preservation Holding Time

Benthic Macroinfauna

(invertebrates) 

Cloth bag 

contained 

within a 5-

gallon bucket

Ca. 1 L 

Undiluted 

NOTOXhisto 

or 

10% buffered 

formalin

Indefinite

Table 11-7: Container Requirements for Macroepifaunal Samples for Vouchering and 

Verification of Identity

Parameters Container Type and Size Preservation Holding Time

Macroepifauna

invertebrates Plastic bucket 19 L (5 gal.)

50–70% 

Ethanol 

solution

Indefinitely 

(suitable for long-term 

storage)

Macroepifauna

fishes

Measuring <15 cm

standard length

Plastic bucket 19 L 

(5 gal.)

10% buffered 

formalin or 

Undiluted 

NOTOXhisto

Change to 70% ethanol

within 1 month

Larger fishes of >15

cm standard length

Same as 

above

19 L (5 gal.) 

bucket, or 

bagged and 

placed in 

freezer

Inject fixative 

into body 

cavity in 

addition to 

emersion in 

solution, or 

freeze for later 

preservation

Change to 70% ethanol 

within 1 month

All sediment and water samples, with the exception of physical samples, should be preserved in 

cold storage or on wet ice to <4 ̊C. A refrigerated trailer will be used to transport samples 

from the field to ANAMAR headquarters prior to shipment to laboratories.

All holding times and preservation methods will conform to USEPA guidelines in QA/QC 

Guidance for Sampling and Analysis of Sediments, Water, and Tissues for Dredged Material 

Evaluations (USEPA 1995).
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 12.0, Element B3: Sample Handling and Custody Requirements

52

12.0 ELEMENT B3 – SAMPLE HANDLING AND CUSTODY REQUIREMENTS 

Sample Handling

All sample containers will be labeled accurately and filled out entirely. The label information 

will be consistent with that provided on the chain-of-custody form. Sample labels will include 

the following information:

1. Project

2. Sample Identification number and station number

3. Matrix

4. Date and time of sample collection

5. Name or initials of collector(s)

6. Sample preservation method used, if required

Sediment samples will be homogenized as described in Section 11.1. Section 11.1 also explains 

procedures pertaining to sample storage and transport. The forms listed in Table 12-1 are used 

in the field to document information regarding the sample collection and handling. 

Table 12-1: Field Activity Forms Used to Document Sample Collection and Support 

Activities

All forms will be provided in the appendix of the final draft of this document.

Chain-of-Custody Requirements

Filename Purpose

Sediment Sampling Field Sheet Records the information about how each sample was collected, as 

well as in situ measurements and site conditions. It also includes 

a description of the sample immediately following being brought 

onboard the vessel.

Water Quality Sampling Field Sheet Records the information about how each sample was collected, as 

well as in situ measurements and site conditions. This form also 

records the numbers of containers used, container type, and 

amount of water sampled.

Infaunal Sampling Log Records information such as field conditions, description of 

sample, and materials and methods used in procuring it.

Epifaunal (Trawl) Sampling Log Describes materials and methods of capture, waypoints, field 

conditions, and specimen information.

ANAMAR Chain-of-Custody Chain-of-custody form for shipping samples from ANAMAR to the 

laboratories for analysis

Daily Quality Control Report The Daily Quality Control Report which provides any deviations 

from this QAPP, Region 4 guidelines, or any anomalous behavior 

of the samples. It is to be filled out on a daily basis after sample 

collection or any other field activities.

Temperature Log Daily temperature log for recording sample temperature. Any 

deviations outside the acceptable limit will necessitate immediate 

corrective action to bring the samples back within control.
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 12.0, Element B3: Sample Handling and Custody Requirements

53

Chain-of-custody records from the field will have each sample or composite ID listed. Additional 

information will include sample date and time, analyses requested, containers shipped, 

relinquished by, date, and time, and receiver, date, and time. A copy of the chain of custody 

will be made and submitted with the final report. 

Sample Shipping and Tracking

ANAMAR personnel will deliver samples from the field to ANAMAR’s office. Sample shipping 

from the field or from ANAMAR to the laboratories for analysis will use a common courier (i.e., 

Federal Express or Air and Surface Logistics). The laboratories will be contacted on the day of 

shipping to inform them of the shipment, which can then be tracked by computer using the 

tracking number provided, or by phone. Prior to the end of the day the samples are scheduled 

for delivery, the recipient will be contacted to determine if the samples arrived. If there is any 

delay, the courier will be contacted to determine the time the samples will be delivered and any 

additional corrective action that may be necessary in the event of unexpected delays (e.g., 

weather-related or other causes). Should the delay cause the samples to rise above the 

acceptable temperature for storage, USACE and EPA will be contacted and corrective actions 

will then be determined.

All coolers will have custody seals attached prior to shipment. Once received, each custody seal 

will be inspected to determine if it is intact and the information recorded on the chain-ofcustody form. If the custody seal is not received intact, USACE and EPA will be contacted to 

determine if corrective action is required.

Intra- and Inter-Laboratory Tracking

Upon receipt at the laboratories, the samples will be logged into the laboratory computerized 

information management system and assigned a unique number for tracking through the 

analytical process in the lab. Any lab transfer of samples (sediment or water) will have 

complete chain-of-custody records. All chain-of-custody records will be included in the final 

report to USACE.

Storage and Disposal of Samples 

The laboratories will retain all remaining unused sample volume under appropriate temperature 

and light conditions at least until the data generated from the samples goes through ANAMAR 

QA/QC and is approved as acceptable. Preferably, samples will be retained until the final report 

is submitted to the USACE. The storage/archive time will be dependent on space available at 

the laboratory. Approval by the USACE Project Officer will be obtained prior to disposal of any 

sediment, water, or tissue sample if disposal is needed before the final report is submitted. 

Samples will be disposed of properly according to federal, state, and local laws. 

Additional information regarding sample storage is presented in Section 11.1 (Sample Storage 

and Transport).
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 14.0, Element B5: Quality Control Requirements

54

13.0 ELEMENT B4 – ANALYTICAL METHODS REQUIREMENTS

13.1 Subsampling

Not applicable

13.2 Preparation of the Samples

13.3 Analytical Methods

13.3.1 Physical and Chemical Analysis

Physical and chemical analyses will be conducted on sediment samples obtained from a 

marine environment. Sediment samples will be thoroughly homogenized prior to bagging and 

prior to obtaining splits for the required analyses. For all sediment analyses, the 

concentration, reporting limit (RL), and method detection limit (MDL) will be reported on a dry 

weight basis. Macroepifaunal tissue sample analyses will be reported on both a wet and dry 

weight basis.

For grain size distributions, in addition to reporting the percentages in each size class, a graph 

of the cumulative frequency percentages using U.S. Army Engineering (ENG) Form 2087 

(Gradation Curves) or similar form will be used.

Columbia Analytical Services, Inc. (CAS) utilizes a reductive precipitation procedure to reduce 

the interferences from salts for metals analysis. Organic compounds are not affected by salt 

interferences.

All analyses shall be performed in a timely manner in order to allow for retesting prior to 

expiration of holding times. If alternative methods or detection limits are used, approval from 

USACE Jacksonville District and USEPA Region 4 is required. 

Tables 13-1 through 13-4 summarize analyses, methods and target detection limits for 

physical and chemical parameters. Parameters in red in Tables 13-1 through 13-4 indicate 

deviations from SERIM guidance. These deviations have been approved by the USACE—

Jacksonville District and EPA, Region 4. The rationale is based on available historical data 

from the region. Some parameters have been omitted and some have been added. Please 

see footnotes for detail.

Table 13-1: Analytes, Methods, and Target Reporting Limits: Sediment Physical 

Analyses

Parameter Test Method Reporting Limit

Grain Size ASTM-D422 1.0 %

Total Solids/Water Content ASTM-D2216-80 Plumb 1998 1.0 % solids

Total Organic Carbon (TOC) 9060 (SW846) 0.1%

Specific Gravity1Plumb 1981

Atterberg Limits1ASTM 4318D

1

This parameter has been omitted from analysis (listed in SERIM).
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 14.0, Element B5: Quality Control Requirements

55

Table 13-2: Analytes, Methods, and Target Reporting Limits: Sediment 

Chemistry

Test Parameters Test Method

Reporting Limit

(Dry Weights)

METALS/OTHERS

 Arsenic 6010b/200.8 0.10 mg/kg

 Beryllium

1

6010b/200.8 0.50 mg/kg

 Cadmium 6010b/200.8 0.10 mg/kg

 Chromium 6010b/200.8 0.10 mg/kg

 Copper 6010b/200.8 0.10 mg/kg

 Lead 6010b/200.8 0.10 mg/kg

 Mercury 7471A 0.05 mg/kg

 Nickel 6010b/200.8 0.10 mg/kg

 Selenium 6010b/200.8 0.20 mg/kg

 Silver 6010b/200.8 0.062 mg/kg

 Zinc 6010b/200.8 0.50 mg/kg

 Total Organic Carbon (TOC) 9060(mod) 100 mg/kg

PESTICIDES

 Aldrin 8081 1.7 g/kg

 Chlordane & derivatives

 Technical Chlordane 8081 8.1 g/kg 

 (cis)–Chlordane 8081 1.7 g/kg

 (trans)–Chlordane 8081 1.7 g/kg

 Oxychlordane 8081 1.7 g/kg

 Cis-Nonachlor 8081 1.7 g/kg

 Trans-Nonachlor 8081 1.7 g/kg

 DDT & derivatives

 o,p’ (2,4’)-DDD18081 1.7 g/kg

 p,p’ (4,4’)-DDD18081 1.7 g/kg

 o,p’ (2,4’)-DDE18081 1.7 g/kg

 p,p’ (4,4’)-DDE 8081 1.7 g/kg

 o,p’ (2,4’)-DDT 8081 1.7 g/kg

 p,p’ (4,4’)-DDT 8081 1.7 g/kg

 Dieldrin 8081 1.7 g/kg

 Endosulfan & derivatives

 Endosulfan I 8081 1.7 g/kg

 Endosulfan II 8081 1.7 g/kg

 Endrin & derivatives

 Endrin 8081 1.7 g/kg

 Endrin aldehyde 8081 1.7 g/kg

 Endrin ketone 8081 1.7 g/kg

 Heptachlor and derivatives

 Heptachlor 8081 1.7 g/kg

 Heptachlor epoxide 8081 1.7 g/kg

 Hexachlorocyclohexane (BHC)

 -BHC 8081 1.7 g/kg

 -BHC 8081 1.7 g/kg
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 14.0, Element B5: Quality Control Requirements

56

Table 13-2: Analytes, Methods, and Target Reporting Limits: Sediment 

Chemistry

Test Parameters Test Method

Reporting Limit

(Dry Weights)

 -BHC 8081 1.7 g/kg

 -BHC (Lindane) 8081 1.7 g/kg

 Methoxychlor 8081 1.7 g/kg

 Mirex 1

8081 1.7 g/kg

 Toxaphene 8081 167 g/kg

Semi-Volatiles

Pentachlorophenol28151 Modified or

8270C SIM

100 g/kg

PCB CONGENERS

 PCB-8 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-18 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-28 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-44 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-49 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-52 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-66 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-77 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-87 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-101 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-105 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-118 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-126 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-128 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-138 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-153 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-156 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-169 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-170 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-180 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-183 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-184 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-187 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-195 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-206 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-209 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

POLYNUCLEAR AROMATIC HYDROCARBONS

 Acenaphthene 8270SIM/8310 20 g/kg 

 Acenaphthylene 8270SIM/8310 20 g/kg

 Anthracene 8270SIM/8310 20 g/kg 

 Benzo(a)anthracene 8270SIM/8310 20 g/kg

 Benzo(b)fluoranthene 8270SIM/8310 20 g/kg

 Benzo(k)fluoranthene 8270SIM/8310 20 g/kg

 Benzo(a)pyrene 8270SIM/8310 20 g/kg
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 14.0, Element B5: Quality Control Requirements

57

Table 13-2: Analytes, Methods, and Target Reporting Limits: Sediment 

Chemistry

Test Parameters Test Method

Reporting Limit

(Dry Weights)

 Benzo(g,h,i)perylene 8270SIM/8310 20 g/kg

 Chrysene 8270SIM/8310 20 g/kg

 Dibenzo(a,h)anthracene 8270SIM/8310 20 g/kg

 Fluorene 8270SIM/8310 20 g/kg

 Fluoranthene 8270SIM/8310 20 g/kg

 Indeno(1,2,3-cd)pyrene 8270SIM/8310 20 g/kg

 1-Methylnaphthalene 8270SIM/8310 20 g/kg

 2-Methylnaphthalene 8270SIM/8310 20 g/kg

 Naphthalene 8270SIM/8310 20 g/kg

 Phenanthrene 8270SIM/8310 20 g/kg

 Pyrene 8270SIM/8310 20 g/kg

Organotins

Monobutyltin Krone et al, 1989 10

Dibutyltin Krone et al 10

Tributyltin Krone et al 10

1

Parameters have been added to analyte list (not listed in SERIM).

2

Parameters have been omitted from analysis (listed in SERIM).

Table 13-3: Analytes, Methods, and Target Reporting Limits: Water Chemistry

Test Parameter Test Method Reporting Limit

METALS/OTHERS

 Arsenic 6010b/200.8 1 g/L

 Beryllium 6010b/200.8 1 g/L 

 Cadmium 6010b/200.8 1 g/L

 Chromium 6010b/200.8 1 g/L

 Copper 6010b/200.8 1 g/L

 Lead 6010b/200.8 1 g/L

 Mercury 7470 0.2 g/L

 Nickel 6010b/200.8 1 g/L

 Selenium 6010b/200.8 2 g/L

 Silver 6010b/200.8 1 g/L

 Zinc 6010b/200.8 1 g/L

Total Suspended Solids 160.1 5 mg/L

PESTICIDES

 Aldrin 8081 0.5 g/L

 Chlordane & derivatives

 Technical Chlordane 8081 0.5 g/L

 (cis)–Chlordane 8081 0.5 g/L

 (trans)–Chlordane 8081 0.5 g/L

 Oxychlordane 8081 0.5 g/L

 Cis-Nonachlor 8081 0.5 g/L

 Trans-Nonachlor 8081 0.5 g/L

 DDT & derivatives
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 14.0, Element B5: Quality Control Requirements

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Table 13-3: Analytes, Methods, and Target Reporting Limits: Water Chemistry

Test Parameter Test Method Reporting Limit

 o,p’ (2,4’)-DDD 8081 0.05 g/L

 p,p’ (4,4’)-DDD 8081 0.05 g/L

 o,p’ (2,4’)-DDE 8081 0.05 g/L

 p,p’ (4,4’)-DDE 8081 0.05 g/L

 o,p’ (2,4’)-DDT 8081 0.05 g/L

 p,p’ (4,4’)-DDT 8081 0.05 g/L

 Dieldrin 8081 0.01 g/L

 Endosulfan & derivatives

 Endosulfan I 8081 0.01 g/L

 Endosulfan II 8081 0.01 g/L

 Endrin & derivatives

 Endrin 8081 0.01 g/L

 Endrin aldehyde 8081 0.01 g/L

 Endrin ketone 8081 0.01 g/L

 Heptachlor & derivatives

 Heptachlor 8081 0.01 g/L

 Heptachlor epoxide 8081 0.01 g/L

 Hexachlorocyclohexane (BHC)

 -BHC 8081 0.01 g/L

 -BHC 8081 0.01 g/L

 -BHC 8081 0.01 g/L

 -BHC (Lindane) 8081 0.01 g/L

 Methoxychlor 8081 0.01 g/L

 Mirex 8081 0.01 g/L

 Toxaphene 8081 0.2 g/L

PCB CONGENERS

 PCB-8 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-18 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-28 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-44 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-49 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-52 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-66 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-77 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-87 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-101 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-105 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-118 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-126 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-128 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-138 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-153 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-156 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-169 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-170 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 14.0, Element B5: Quality Control Requirements

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Table 13-3: Analytes, Methods, and Target Reporting Limits: Water Chemistry

Test Parameter Test Method Reporting Limit

 PCB-180 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-183 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-184 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-187 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-195 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-206 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

 PCB-209 Mod 8082NOAA 1 g/kg

POLYNUCLEAR AROMATIC HYDROCARBONS

 Acenaphthene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 g/L 

 Acenaphthylene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 g/L

 Anthracene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 g/L

 Benzo(a)anthracene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 g/L

 Benzo(b)fluoranthene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 g/L

 Benzo(k)fluoranthene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 g/L

 Benzo(a)pyrene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 g/L

 Benzo(g,h,i)perylene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 g/L

 Chrysene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 g/L

 Dibenzo(a,h)anthracene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 g/L

 Fluorene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 g/L

 Fluoranthene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 g/L

 Indeno(1,2,3-cd)pyrene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 g/L

 1-Methylnaphthalene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 g/L

 2-Methylnaphthalene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 g/L

 Naphthalene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 g/L

 Phenanthrene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 g/L

 Pyrene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 g/L
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 14.0, Element B5: Quality Control Requirements

60

Table 13-4: Analytes, Methods, and Target Reporting Limits: Tissue Chemistry

Test Parameter Test Method

Reporting Limit

(Wet Weights)

METALS/OTHERS

 Antimony16010b/200.8 0.5 mg/kg

 Arsenic 6010b/200.8 0.2 mg/kg

 Beryllium16010b/200.8 0.5 mg/kg

 Cadmium 6010b/200.8 0.1 mg/kg

 Chromium 6010b/200.8 0.5 mg/kg

 Copper 6010b/200.8 1 mg/kg

 Lead 6010b/200.8 0.2 mg/kg

 Mercury 7471 0.02 mg/kg

 Nickel 6010b/200.8 1 mg/kg

 Selenium16010b/200.8 0.20 mg/kg

 Silver 6010b/200.8 0.062 mg/kg

 Zinc 6010b/200.8 1 mg/kg

POLYNUCLEAR AROMATIC HYDROCARBONS

 Acenaphthene 8310/8270 SIM 20 g/kg 

 Acenaphthylene 8310/8270 SIM 20 g/kg

 Anthracene 8310/8270 SIM 20 g/kg 

 Benzo(a)anthracene 8310/8270 SIM 20 g/kg

 Benzo(b)fluoranthene 8310/8270 SIM 20 g/kg

 Benzo(k)fluoranthene 8310/8270 SIM 20 g/kg

 Benzo(a)pyrene 8310/8270 SIM 20 g/kg

 Benzo(g,h,i)perylene 8310/8270 SIM 20 g/kg

 Chrysene 8310/8270 SIM 20 g/kg

 Dibenzo(a,h)anthracene 8310/8270 SIM 20 g/kg

 Fluorene 8310/8270 SIM 20 g/kg

 Fluoranthene 8310/8270 SIM 20 g/kg

 Indeno(1,2,3-cd)pyrene 8310/8270 SIM 20 g/kg

 1-Methylnaphthalene 8310/8270 SIM 20 g/kg

 2-Methylnaphthalene 8310/8270 SIM 20 g/kg

 Naphthalene 8310/8270 SIM 20 g/kg

 Phenanthrene 8310/8270 SIM 20 g/kg

 Pyrene 8310/8270 SIM 20 g/kg

PESTICIDES

 Aldrin 8081 1.7 g/kg

 Chlordane & derivatives

 Technical Chlordane 8081 4.1 g/kg 

 (cis)–Chlordane 8081 1.7 g/kg

 (trans)–Chlordane 8081 1.7 g/kg

 Oxychlordane 8081 1.7 g/kg

 Cis-Nonachlor 8081 1.7 g/kg

 Trans-Nonachlor 8081 1.7 g/kg

 DDT & derivatives

 o,p’ (2,4’)-DDD18081 1.7 g/kg
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 14.0, Element B5: Quality Control Requirements

61

Table 13-4: Analytes, Methods, and Target Reporting Limits: Tissue Chemistry

Test Parameter Test Method

Reporting Limit

(Wet Weights)

 p,p’ (4,4’)-DDD 8081 1.7 g/kg

 o,p’ (2,4’)-DDE18081 1.7 g/kg

 p,p’ (4,4’)-DDE 8081 1.7 g/kg

 o,p’ (2,4’)-DDT18081 1.7 g/kg

 p,p’ (4,4’)-DDT 8081 1.7 g/kg

 Dieldrin 8081 1.7 g/kg

 Endosulfan & derivatives

 Endosulfan I 8081 1.7 g/kg

 Endosulfan II 8081 1.7 g/kg

 Endrin & derivatives

 Endrin 8081 1.7 g/kg

 Endrin aldehyde 8081 1.7 g/kg

 Endrin ketone 8081 1.7 g/kg

 Heptachlor and derivatives

 Heptachlor 8081 1.7 g/kg

 Heptachlor epoxide 8081 1.7 g/kg

 Hexachlorocyclohexane (BHC)

 -BHC 8081 1.7 g/kg

 -BHC 8081 1.7 g/kg

 -BHC 8081 1.7 g/kg

 -BHC (Lindane) 8081 1.7 g/kg

 Methoxychlor 8081 1.7 g/kg

 Mirex 8081 1.7 g/kg

 Toxaphene 8081 167 g/kg

 Total Chlorinated Pesticides 8081 10 g/kg

Semi-Volatiles

Pentachlorophenol2 8151 Modified or 

8270C SIM 100 g/kg

PCB CONGENERS

 PCB-8 8082 1 g/kg

 PCB-18 8082 1 g/kg

 PCB-28 8082 1 g/kg

 PCB-44 8082 1 g/kg

 PCB-49 8082 1 g/kg

 PCB-52 8082 1 g/kg

 PCB-66 8082 1 g/kg

 PCB-77 8082 1 g/kg

 PCB-87 8082 1 g/kg

 PCB-101 8082 1 g/kg

 PCB-105 8082 1 g/kg

 PCB-118 8082 1 g/kg

 PCB-126 8082 1 g/kg

 PCB-128 8082 1 g/kg

 PCB-138 8082 1 g/kg
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 14.0, Element B5: Quality Control Requirements

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Table 13-4: Analytes, Methods, and Target Reporting Limits: Tissue Chemistry

Test Parameter Test Method

Reporting Limit

(Wet Weights)

 PCB-153 8082 1 g/kg

 PCB-156 8082 1 g/kg

 PCB-169 8082 1 g/kg

 PCB-170 8082 1 g/kg

 PCB-180 8082 1 g/kg

 PCB-183 8082 1 g/kg

 PCB-184 8082 1 g/kg

 PCB-187 8082 1 g/kg

 PCB-195 8082 1 g/kg

 PCB-206 8082 1 g/kg

 PCB-209 8082 1 g/kg

1

This parameter has been added to the analyte list (not listed in SERIM).

2

This parameter has been omitted from the analysis (listed in SERIM).

13.3.2 Taxonomic Analysis of Benthic Macroinfauna

Biological characterization of benthic macroinfauna is to be performed by Barry A. Vittor & 

Associates, Inc. The tasks include sorting, identification, enumeration, and wet weight 

biomass of macroinvertebrate organisms collected at each station (see Barry A. Vittor & 

Associates, Inc. 2004 for further details). The contractor shall sort and identify all infaunal 

invertebrates to the lowest possible identification level, which in most cases will be to the

species level. The contractor will also provide analysis and interpretation of the results for 

comparison between candidate sites.

13.3.3 Taxonomic Analysis of Benthic Macroepifauna

Characterization of trawl-caught invertebrates and fishes will be performed by an ANAMAR 

biologist. Total biomass (fishes and invertebrates together) will be weighed (wet weight) 

immediately upon removal from the otter trawl. Invertebrates and fishes will be enumerated

and determined to the lowest possible taxonomic level (usually to species level, unless badly 

damaged during collection). Crustaceans will be measured in carapace length or width, as 

appropriate, while other invertebrates will be measured based on the most widely used 

method for that taxa. Teleost fishes will be measured in standard length, while elasmobranch 

metrics will be taken using the most widely used and accepted methods (i.e., precaudal 

length for sharks, disk width for non-rajid batoids, total length for rajids). For species 

represented by more than 10 specimens per trawl sample, only the first 10 specimens 

encountered will be measured, while all additional specimens will be counted and the number 

recorded on a field sheet. During the fall sampling event, select species of invertebrates and 

fishes will be tissue sampled for analysis of certain metals, PCBs, chlorinated pesticides, and 

hydrocarbons. These tissue samples shall consist of muscle tissue from each taxa in question 

(e.g., fillet of fish, tail of shrimp, claw of crab). Tissue collection materials and methods shall 

be based on those outlined in the Revised Procedural Guide for Designation Surveys of Ocean 

Dredged Material Disposal Sites (April, 1990). Prior agreement by the USACE project officer 

must be obtained before project methods are allowed to diverge from that of the procedural 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 14.0, Element B5: Quality Control Requirements

63

guide. Tissue samples will be stored frozen and shall be shipped to laboratories soon after

completion of the fall sampling event. Representative fishes not used in tissue sampling shall 

be placed in a 5 gal. plastic bucket containing 10% buffered formalin solution, or undiluted 

NOTOXhisto for fixation. Large fishes more than 15-cm standard length or width shall be 

injected with 10% formalin into the body cavity prior to emersion in the fixative. A label 

containing pertinent information shall be placed inside the bucket and another label will be 

affixed to the outside of the bucket. All or most invertebrates collected in the trawl survey will 

be relaxed in a chemical supplied by the Florida Museum of Natural History Ichthyology 

Collection and placed in 50–70% ethanol for long-term storage. All field data will be recorded 

on field sheets. Representative invertebrate and fish specimens will be deposited at the 

Invertebrate Zoology and Ichthyology collections at the Florida Museum of Natural History in 

Gainesville, Florida, to be used as vouchers and to allow for possible future verification of 

identification.

ANAMAR will provide, in the resulting report, the following analyses and data based on the trawl 

samples:

Estimation of area sampled per trawl, and all trawls combined

GIS figure showing trawl sampling locations and directions of travel

Wet weight biomass per tow sample

Estimation of local population density of major taxa 

Numbers of principle species of each taxa (e.g., gastropods, shrimps, crabs, fishes)

Community composition

Taxonomic diversity and richness of benthic macroepifauna

Results and discussion of tissue analyses

14.0 ELEMENT B5 - QUALITY CONTROL REQUIREMENTS

All chemical analyses of sediment, water, and tissues will be performed by Columbia Analytical 

Services, Inc. (CAS). CAS is a NELAC-certified laboratory; all analyses will be performed 

according to NELAC standards. The Quality Assurance Manual (QAM) and SOPs for CAS clearly 

specify quantitative and qualitative objectives for each analysis such as MDLs, precision, 

accuracy, completeness, representativeness, and comparability. The QAM and SOPs will be 

strictly adhered to for all analyses completed under the project. Standard quality-control checks 

including sample splits and replicates, blanks, spiked blanks, matrix spikes and duplicates, 

surrogate and internal standards, and calibration standards will be incorporated into all 

laboratory activities and described in the laboratory’s QAM and SOPs.

All physical analyses will be performed by MACTEC in Jacksonville, Florida. MACTEC maintains 

laboratory SOPs and a Quality Manual as part of their overall quality assurance program. 

MACTEC adheres to a quality assurance program including routine analyses of proficiency tests 

and laboratory duplicates. Project-specific quality control may be requested if not part of the 

routine quality control performed.

All macroinfaunal samples analyzed by Barry A. Vittor & Associates, Inc. undergo a quality 

control program as part of their standard operating procedures. At least 10% of all sorted 

specimens from a given sample will be re-sorted by another qualified taxonomist. If more than 

5% of the re-sorted organisms are found to be in error in terms of identification, a quality 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 14.0, Element B5: Quality Control Requirements

64

control failure is logged and an additional sample is re-sorted. If the second re-sorting is found 

to be in error of greater than 5%, all samples previously sorted by that person are then resorted by another taxonomist. In addition, voucher collections are prepared for each project, 

composed of representative specimens from each species encountered in that project. These 

voucher specimens are labeled and archived for long-term storage and possible verification of 

identifications with outside specialists. Senior taxonomists (having at least 5 years experience 

with a particular taxonomic group) check completed data sheets for questionable appearances 

of some taxa. Quality control is further accomplished by the laboratory manager, who 

scrutinizes each data sheet prior to submittal to the data clerk for coding. With each new 

project, the laboratory manager completes a written laboratory quality control report, with 

summarizes all phases of involvement. This quality control report is made available to the 

client.

The QAM and SOPs for all laboratories performing analyses for this project list the analytical 

equipment used for testing, along with relevant calibration and standard reference materials 

used, maintenance schedules, and recordkeeping methods. The accuracy and precision limits 

included in the QAM and SOPs of the analytical laboratory will meet the criteria established for 

this evaluation. The laboratory managers/directors listed in Section 4.3 will be responsible for 

assigning appropriately-trained analysts to perform the specific tests. As part of the NELAC 

certification, corrective procedures have been established if QA objectives are not met. All 

laboratory QAMs are provided electronically on the attached CD. 

Field analyses will be performed by ANAMAR personnel. Macroepifaunal field sorting may be 

assisted by trained individuals associated with the University of Florida under the close 

supervision of ANAMAR scientists. ANAMAR maintains strict quality assurance protocols in the 

field, including instrument calibration, decontamination, field custody sheets and corrective 

action, if required. All quality control is completely documented and included in the final report 

to the client.

USACE-Specific Data Quality Objectives 

All physical and chemical data must conform to the data quality objectives listed in Table 7-1

of this document. For all data quality objectives that are not achieved, the laboratory will 

provide documentation for the failed criteria and any corrective action taken and/or reanalyze 

the samples. All analytical anomalies will be described in detail in the final report.

Data Quality Objectives for Chemical Analyses

Achieving the desired reporting limits (RLs) and method detection limits (MDLs) is critical to 

providing a suitable evaluation of the COCs and the suitability of this site for disposal of 

sediment. The laboratory must perform yearly MDL verification studies on the matrices tested 

under this project. 

The final report will include detailed explanations when the actual reporting limits exceed 

those listed in this table and/or when an alternative test method is used. Any deviation from 

the proposed methods will receive prior approval from USACE—Jacksonville and EPA.

Table 14-1 shows a list of common quality control activities that will be performed on project 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 14.0, Element B5: Quality Control Requirements

65

samples. 

Table 14-1: Quality Control Activities Performed for Field, Physical and Chemical 

Analysis

Quality Control Check Information Provided

In Situ Measurements Provides onsite conditions at the time of sample collection

Initial Calibration Ensures instrument is operating correctly

Initial Calibration Verification

Initial Calibration Blank

Ensures instrument calibration will yield correct responses 

at a known concentration. This increases confidence that 

sample readings within the calibration range also are read 

correctly.

Method Blank Ensure that the preparation and analysis of the samples is 

not introducing potential contaminants through either the 

reagents used or other sources found through the 

laboratory.

Standard Reference Material (SRM) Provides a known concentration of contaminant that can 

be used to verify the preparation and analysis of samples. 

The SRM should be as closely matched to the sample 

matrix as possible.

Laboratory Control Sample/Laboratory 

Fortified Blank

Provides a clean matrix sample which may be used to 

determine the instrument’s calibration is within 

acceptance limits.

Continuing Calibration Standard

Continuing Calibration Blank

Verifies that the initial calibration is within control, and 

that any drift is within acceptable limits. 

Surrogates Verifies the analysis the individual contaminants 

performed by the analytical method.

Duplicates/Triplicates Measures the precision of the analytical technique, and 

can be used to determine the relative homogeneity of the 

sample.

Matrix Spike/Matrix Spike Duplicate 

(MS/MSD)

Used to measure the analytical bias of the test, and as an 

indication of matrix interferences in the sample.

ANAMAR will use the data quality review form from Appendix O of the SERIM for evaluating 

laboratory quality control. These forms correspond to the tables shown in section 7.0 of this 

document.
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 15.0, Element B6: Instrument/Equipment Testing, Inspection, and Maintenance Requirements

66

15.0 ELEMENT B6 – INSTRUMENT/EQUIPMENT TESTING, INSPECTION, AND 

MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS

Field Instruments: The field instruments to be used for this project will be provided by the

EPA aboard the Bold. All calibration, operation, and maintenance will be the responsibility of 

Bold personnel, EPA.

Laboratory Instruments: The QAM and/or SOPs for each laboratory listed in Section 4.3 list 

the analytical equipment used for testing, along with relevant calibration and standard 

reference materials used, maintenance schedules, and recordkeeping methods. The accuracy 

and precision limits included in the QAM and SOPs of the analytical laboratory meet the criteria 

established for this evaluation. The laboratory managers/directors listed in Section 4.3 will be 

responsible for assigning appropriately-trained analysts to perform the specific tests. As part of 

the NELAC certification, corrective procedures have also been established if QA objectives are 

not met.
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 16.0, Element B7: Instrument Calibration and Frequency

67

16.0 ELEMENT B7 – INSTRUMENT CALIBRATION AND FREQUENCY

Field Instruments

All calibration of field instruments will be performed by EPA personnel aboard the Bold.

Laboratory Instruments

All laboratory instruments used in the analysis of sediment and site water analyses will be 

calibrated according to the method, laboratory Quality Assurance Manual, SOPs, or any other 

NELAC-approved method. All records of calibration will also be documented and provided in the 

laboratory reports according to the above procedures. Any failure of the laboratory to achieve 

acceptable calibration will necessitate corrective action by the laboratory in accordance with 

their Quality Manual and SOPs. 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 17.0, Element B8: Inspection/Acceptance Requirements for Supplies and Consumables

68

17.0 ELEMENT B8 – INSPECTION/ACCEPTANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR SUPPLIES 

AND CONSUMABLES

Pre-cleaned glass jars or Teflon®bags will be used for sample collection of sediments for 

chemical analysis. Pre-cleaned glass bottles and Nalgene®or equivalent bottles will be used 

for the collection of water quality samples. Ziploc®bags will be used for the collection of 

sediment samples for physical parameters. Certificates of Analysis will be kept by the 

laboratory according to their QAM and/or SOPs. 

Equipment and supplies to be provided by personnel onboard the OSV Bold is expected to 

include positioning data (navigation and depth feed) in DAC and wet lab, Inner space 448 

Depth Sounder (paper recorder not necessary), extra monitor in the wet lab, Young-modified 

Van Veen grab sampler, CTD-profiler (sensors: conductivity, temperature, depth, dissolved 

oxygen, turbidity, PAR), with rosette of water sampling bottles, sorting trays, temperature 

controlled freezer, and refrigerator. Expendable Supplies from the OSV Bold are expected to 

include writeable compact disks, cable ties, ice, paper towels, de-ionized water.

The following equipment and supplies are expected to be provided by EPA, Region 4. Data 

logging laptop, navigation laptop, DGPS, DGPS antennae with mounting pole, removable hard 

drive for data storage, sieve buckets, cloth infaunal sample bags, NOTOXhisto (a fixative), grain 

size sample scoop, and small Young-modified grab sampler (0.04 m

2

).

Remaining supplies and equipment necessary for sampling will be supplied by ANAMAR.

All laboratory consumables will be inspected, handled, stored, documented, and used according 

to NELAC requirements and in accordance with each laboratory’s QAM and/or SOPs.
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 18.0, Element B9: Data Acquisition Requirements (Non-Direct Measurements)

69

18.0 ELEMENT B9 – DATA ACQUISITION REQUIREMENTS (NON-DIRECT

MEASUREMENTS)

Various forms of data will be collected during field and laboratory activities for this project: 

photographs, maps, GIS data, research-derived data, etc. All data generated during this project 

will be retained by the contractor. Any data not required to be submitted as described in 

Section 6 will be supplied to USACE or EPA upon request.
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 19.0, Element B10: Data Management

70

19.0 ELEMENT B10 – DATA MANAGEMENT, INTERPRETATION, AND REDUCTION

19.1 Data Management

Each laboratory has established NELAC-approved procedures for data management, collection, 

validation, reduction, and reporting. As such, the analytical results will be extensively reviewed 

in-house by the laboratories submitting the data. 

Each laboratory will submit an Electronic Data Deliverable (EDD) and a hard copy data packet to 

ANAMAR. All data tables will be generated from the EDD and will be cross-checked against the 

hard copy data packet. When a data packet is received by the contractor, it will be reviewed by 

the contractor’s QA/QC Officer, with emphasis on NELAC standards. All laboratory reports 

received will include laboratory QC data generated in the analysis of the project samples 

including results of all method blanks, lab duplicates, matrix spikes, spike duplicates, reference 

material, surrogate spikes, standards, check standards, and calibration verifications. The 

analytical results for of these QC samples will be reviewed and documented in a CQAR for each 

analytical data packet received. This report will be incorporated into the final data report. The 

CQAR consists of a checklist and a case narrative of the analytical runs. Any nonconformance, 

QC deficiency, or other problems that would impact data quality will be addressed in the CQAR. 

In particular, the contractor will compare data to the data quality objectives listed in Section 

7.0, as well as confirm that target detection limits listed in Section 13.3.1 were achieved. If any 

data quality objective is not achieved, the laboratory will re-analyze the sample(s) and/or 

provide documentation for the failed criteria. The CQAR will contain a written record of the 

validity of each data package and its subsequent use in the report.

Field parameters, sample descriptions, site conditions, and additional information pertaining to 

the sample and sampling process will be recorded on site-specific field sheets. A DQCR will be 

filled out for each day of sampling and sample processing. Each of these records is integral to 

the successful completion of this project. As such, they will be reviewed, reported, and retained 

as described elsewhere in this document.

The contractor will use the password-protected Client Login section on the company’s website 

to upload documents for client access and to keep USACE—Jacksonville up-to-date with all 

documents and project-related data. This provides access to current documents and allows 

USACE—Jacksonville to perform an in-progress data review.

19.2 Data Interpretation and Reduction

Macroinfaunal Data Analysis and Interpretation

The contractor shall analyze the macroinfaunal data using approaches designed to identify any 

differences in community structure between study areas. 

The contractor shall calculate the following numerical indices for each sample:

Infaunal abundance (total number of individuals per station)

Infaunal density (total number of individuals per square meter)

Species richness (total number of taxa represented per station)

Taxonomic diversity (distribution of individuals over species)
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 19.0, Element B10: Data Management

71

The contractor also shall perform data interpretation consisting of habitat characterization and 

benthic community characterization including faunal composition, abundance, and community 

structure. The contractor preparing the final report shall also include as an appendix the 

phylogenetic list of macroinvertebrate taxa for the surveys.

Chemical and Physical Data

Reduction of chemical and physical data in the final report will be done as discussed in the 

Green Book and the SERIM. 

All reports will undergo extensive internal review before submission to USACE—Jacksonville. A 

compact disk will accompany the final report and will contain all of the project files including 

electronic versions of all data reports, maps, figures, tables, text, photos, and any other 

electronic files used to generate the report. 

Macroepifaunal Data Analysis

The contractor will provide, in the resulting report, the following analyses and data based on 

the trawl samples:

Estimation of area sampled per tow, and all tows combined

GIS figure showing trawl sampling locations and directions of travel

Numbers of principle species of each taxa (e.g., gastropods, shrimps, crabs, fishes)

Wet weight biomass

Estimation of local population density of major taxa

An estimation of taxonomic richness

An estimation of taxonomic diversity (using an appropriate index of diversity)

Community composition

Discussion of species of federal management interest found in sites

Results and discussion of tissue analyses

The contractor also shall perform data interpretation consisting of a brief habitat 

characterization and benthic community characterization. The contractor’s discussion shall 

include a comparison of results obtained and reported in the 1986 New Fernandina Harbor 

ODMDS EIS. The contractor preparing the final report shall also include as an appendix a 

taxonomic list of all invertebrate and fish species collected during these surveys.
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 20.0, Element C1: Assessments and Response Actions

72

GROUP C. ASSESSMENT AND OVERSIGHT

20.0 ELEMENT C1 – ASSESSMENTS AND RESPONSE ACTIONS

ANAMAR’s QA/QC Officer is responsible for all assessments and response actions throughout 

the life of this project and is performed in-part through the review and audit process. 

Performance and systems audits are performed to evaluate the capability and performance of a 

measurement system. Audits are utilized to ensure that field and laboratory activities will 

provide data reflective of site conditions and within project QA/QC requirements. A 

performance audit is used to evaluate the accuracy of a measurement method or component of 

the method. A systems audit focuses on evaluating the principal components of a sample 

collection or data collection method to determine proper selection and use of that method. 

ANAMAR’s field sampling teams will be overseen and directed at all times by the Project 

Manager. Field teams are audited periodically, usually annually, by the Contractor Project 

Director, company President, or QA/QC Officer. These audits entail an observation and critique 

of sampling methods, collection, preservation, labeling, handling of sediment and/or water 

samples to ensure SOPs are being followed, that all equipment is calibrated and used properly, 

the Health and Safety Plan is being followed, and all aspects of the project are on schedule. 

Documentation of these audits is retained by Contractor. 

Each laboratory used in this project regularly undergoes audits in accordance with their NELAC 

certifications. Although no project-specific laboratory audits are scheduled for this project, any 

deficiencies identified in a recent audit that may adversely affect the data quality for this project 

will be brought to the attention of the ANAMAR Project Manager.

Any event that does not conform to the SAP/QAP, SOPs, or QAMs is considered a nonconformance event. These will be identified as quickly as possible and reported to the Project 

Manager as soon as practical. If the nonconformance event happens in the fieldwork portion of 

this project, it will be documented in the DQCR. The Project Manager will confer with the 

USACE—Jacksonville Project Officer or QA/QC Officer and outline a procedure for accomplishing 

the task so the quality of the project is not compromised. Every effort will be taken to contact 

the USACE and/or EPA representative prior to any deviation from the procedures documented in 

this SAP/QAPP.
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 21.0, Element C2: Reports to Management

73

21.0 ELEMENT C2 – REPORTS TO MANAGEMENT

Each laboratory shall include as part of its Quality Assurance Program periodic reports to 

management. These reports will include internal audits with corrective actions, findings with 

corrective actions of any external audits, either by regulatory agencies or clients, results of 

proficiency testing samples, and any routine issues directly related to quality assurance or 

control within the laboratory that has been found since the most recent audit. These reports 

should be maintained as part of the permanent record of the laboratory for a minimum of five 

years.

Any report which may have a direct impact on the samples included in this project should be 

addressed with the ANAMAR Project Manager or QA/QC Officer in order to determine the 

appropriate corrective action. All correspondence which may have an impact on the overall 

quality of the results will be included in the final report to the client.

Once received from the laboratories, the results will be incorporated into text, tables, and charts 

to more readily allow for evaluation by USACE and EPA. These documents will be available to 

ANAMAR’s management for technical review before delivery to USACE—Jacksonville District. 

Macroinfauna Report

Table 21-1 Minimum Report Requirements

1. Introduction including summary of project background and study purpose

2. Methods including sample collection and handling and laboratory macroinfaunal sample 

analysis

3. Data analysis methods including assemblage analyses and faunal similarities

4. Discussion of habitat characteristics (e.g., grain size, water depth)

5. Faunal composition, abundance, and community structure

6. Numerical classification analysis

7. Tabular summary of macroinfauna by taxonomic groups

8. Comparisons of stations within the ODMDS to those outside the ODMDS

9. Comparisons to previous surveys

10. Brief discussion of quality assurance/quality control steps

11. Results discussion

12. Summary and conclusions.

In addition, the contractor shall provide raw data in electronic (digital) format. Two raw data 

files shall be provided by the contractor in accordance with Table 21.1 and shall be provided in 

Microsoft Excel, Extensible Markup Language (XML), or comma delineated format. The 

contractor shall also provide statistical worksheet and output files.
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 21.0, Element C2: Reports to Management

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Table 21-2 Electronic Raw Data File Format

File Description Content/format

Abundance Data For each station and taxon collected, provide the following: station, 

phylum, class, family, genus, species, Number collected, and abundance

Biomass Data For each station and major taxonomic group, provide the following: 

station, major taxonomic group, abundance.

Abundance 

Statistical 

Worksheet

The format should have all sample sites as column headers and all species 

as row headers with the number of individuals of that species for that site 

in the cell (including stations where a given taxon was not observed).

Biomass 

Statistical 

Worksheet

The format should have all sample sites as column headers and all species 

as row headers with the biomass of a given species and a given site in the 

cell (including stations where a given taxon was not observed).
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 22.0, Element D1: Data Review, Validation, and Verification Requirements

75

GROUP D. DATA VALIDATION AND USABILITY

22.0 ELEMENT D1 – DATA REVIEW, VALIDATION, AND VERIFICATION 

REQUIREMENTS

Data Validation 

Data validation is a process used to accept or reject data and determine if the data are 

traceable, defensible, and can be used for a particular project. Each laboratory has established 

state-approved procedures for data collection, validation, reduction, and reporting. As such, the 

analytical results will be extensively reviewed in-house by the laboratories submitting the data. 

Section 7.0 contains tables showing the acceptance criteria for the analytical groups to be 

performed for this project. All physical and chemical results shall be compared to the reporting 

limits in Section 13.3.1. All QC results for physical and chemical analyses will be compared to 

the tables in Section 7.0. 

ANAMAR’s QA/QC Officer will review all laboratory results in accordance with the procedures 

described above. Any data which does not meet the acceptance criteria in the data tables will 

be qualified in bold italics with a shaded background. After review, ANAMAR’s QA/QC Officer, 

Project Manager and project director will perform an overall project review and recommend 

whether to accept or reject the data. EPA, Region 4 and USACE—Jacksonville District will have 

the final authority to determine the acceptability of the project data.
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 23.0, Element D2: Validation and Verifications Methods

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23.0 ELEMENT D2 – VALIDATION AND VERIFICATIONS METHODS

Laboratory Data Validation

When a physical or chemical data packet is received, it is reviewed by ANAMAR’s QA/QC Officer, 

with emphasis on NELAC standards and conformance to the data quality objectives set forth in 

this QAPP. Chemistry data reports include laboratory QC data generated during analysis of the 

project samples including results of all method blanks, lab duplicates/triplicates, matrix spikes, 

spike duplicates/triplicates, reference material, surrogate spikes, standards, check standards, 

and calibration verifications. All physical testing reports will include sample 

duplicates/triplicates. The analytical results for these QC samples are reviewed and 

documented in a CQAR for each analytical data packet received. This report is then 

incorporated into the final data report. The CQAR consists of a checklist and a case narrative of 

the analytical runs. Any nonconformance, QC deficiency, or other problem that would impact 

data quality will be addressed in the CQAR. ANAMAR will compare data to the data quality 

objectives listed in Section 7.0, as well as confirm that target detection limits listed in Section 

13.3 were reached. If any data quality objective is not reached, the laboratory will re-analyze 

the sample(s) and/or provide documentation for the failed criteria. The CQAR will provide a 

written record of the validity of each data package and its subsequent use in the report. After 

all data have been reviewed and validated, an assessment of the impact on the data quality and 

usability of the results will be made and included in the report to the client.
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies

Section 24.0, Element D3: Reconciliation with Data Quality Objectives

77

24.0 ELEMENT D3 – RECONCILIATION WITH DATA QUALITY OBJECTIVES 

All chemical and physical data will be reconciled by ANAMAR’s QA/QC Officer with the data 

quality objectives listed in Section 7.0 and with the target detection limits listed in Section 13.3 

by comparison with the laboratory results. Analytical data that fall outside of the acceptable QC 

limits will be addressed in a case narrative and any corrective action taken will be described in 

detail. Quality Control failures which are not adequately addressed will be re-prepared or 

reanalyzed at the laboratory’s expense. All analytical anomalies will be described in detail in the 

final report. In the case of reruns, the initial and rerun result will be presented in the final 

report.

Many analytical methods describe procedures for analytical anomalies that occur during 

analysis. These method-specific procedures must be followed. 
25.0 REFERENCES 

Barry A. Vittor & Associates, Inc. 2004. Draft Quality Assurance Project Plan for Benthic 

Macroinvertebrate and Sediment Sample Analysis and Data Interpretation for Ocean 

Dredged Material Disposal Sites. Report submitted 26 April 2004 to USACE, Region 4.

Buchman, M.F. 2008. NOAA Screening Quick Reference Tables. NOAA OR&R Report 08-1, 

Seattle, WA, Office of Response and Restoration Division, National Oceanic and 

Atmospheric Administration. 34 pages.

Pequegnat, W.E., B.J. Gallaway, and T.D. Wright. 1990. Revised Procedural Guide for 

Designation Surveys of Ocean Dredged Material Disposal Sites. Department of the Army, 

Waterways Experiment Station, Corps of Engineers, Vicksburg, MS.

USEPA. 1995. QA/QC Guidance for Sampling and Analysis of Sediments, Water, and Tissues 

for Dredged Material Evaluations – Chemical Evaluations. EPA-823-B-95-001. Accessed 

online at: www.epa.gov/waterscience/library/sediment/evaluationguide.pdf.

USEPA. 2001. Methods for Collection, Storage, and Manipulation of Sediments for Chemical 

and Toxicological Analyses. EPA-823-B-01-002. October, 2001. Accessed online at: 

http://www.epa.gov/waterscience/cs/library/collectionmanual.pdf.

USEPA. 2002. Guidance for Quality Assurance Project Plans (G-5) [G-5 publication] (PDF 

401KB) - December 2002, EPA/240/R-02/009. (Note: This document replaces 

EPA/600/R-98/018 issued in February 1998.) Accessed online at: 

www.epa.gov/quality/qs-docs/g5-final.pdf.

USEPA. 2006. National Recommended Water Quality Criteria: 2006. November. EPA-822-R02-047. Accessed online at: www.epa.gov/waterscience/criteria/nrwgc-2006.pdf.

USEPA. 2010. Ocean Survey Vessel (OSV) Bold. Accessed online at: 

www.epa.gov/bold/brochure.html.

USEPA and USACE. 1991. Evaluation of Dredged Material Proposed for Ocean Disposal-Testing 

Manual (Green Book). EPA-503/8-91-001. February 1991. Accessed online at: 

www.epa.gov/owow/oceans/gbook/gbook.pdf.

USEPA and USACE. 2008. Southeast Regional Implementation Manual (SERIM) for

Requirements and Procedures for Evaluation of the Ocean Disposal of Dredged Material 

in Southeastern U.S. Atlantic and Gulf Coast Waters. U.S. Environmental Protection 

Agency Region 4 and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, South Atlantic Division, Atlanta, GA. 

Accessed online at:

http://www.epa.gov/region4/water/oceans/documents/SERIM_Final_August 2008.pdf.
Appendix

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Appendix

Sediment Sampling Field Sheet

Water Quality Sampling Field Sheet

Macroinfaunal Sampling Log

Macroepifaunal (Trawl) Sampling Log

Chain-of-Custody Form

Daily Quality Control Report

Temperature Log
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