Sampling and Analysis Plan (SAP) 

& 

Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) 

For 

Jacksonville ODMDS 

Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey 

Contract # W912EP-09-C-0058 

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 

September 2010 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

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: April Patterson 

Signature: Date: 

QA/QC 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 Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

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 ........................................................................... 27

7.0 ELEMENT A7 - QUALITY OBJECTIVES AND CRITERIA FOR MEASUREMENT DATA ......... 29

8.0 ELEMENT A8 - SPECIAL TRAINING REQUIREMENTS/CERTIFICATION .............................. 32

9.0 ELEMENT A9 - DOCUMENTATION AND RECORDS ......................................................................... 33

9.1 Reporting of Results ..................................................................................................................... 33

9.2 Report Format................................................................................................................................. 34

Data Reporting Package Archiving and Retrieval ........................................................... 36

10.0 ELEMENT B1 - SAMPLING PROCESS DESIGN ................................................................................ 37

10.1 Scheduled Project Activities, Including Measurement Activities .............................. 37

10.2 Rationale for the Design ............................................................................................................ 37

10.3 Design Assumptions .................................................................................................................... 37

10.4 Procedures for Locating and Selecting Environmental Samples ............................... 38

10.5 Classification of Measurements as Critical or Noncritical ............................................ 44

10.6 Validation of Any Nonstandard Methods ............................................................................. 44

11.0 ELEMENT B2 – SAMPLING AND METHODS REQUIREMENTS ................................................... 45

11.1 Describe the Sample Collection, Preparation, and Decontamination Procedures

45

11.2 Identify Support Facilities for Sampling Methods ........................................................... 51

11.3 Describe Sampling/Measurement System Failure Response and 

Corrective Action Process .......................................................................................................... 52

11.4 Describe Sampling Equipment, Sample Preservation, and Holding Times ............ 52

12.0 ELEMENT B3 – SAMPLE HANDLING AND CUSTODY REQUIREMENTS .................................. 55

13.0 ELEMENT B4 – ANALYTICAL METHODS REQUIREMENTS ......................................................... 57

13.1 Subsampling ................................................................................................................................... 57

13.2 Preparation of the Samples ...................................................................................................... 57
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Appendix 

4 

13.3 Analytical Methods ....................................................................................................................... 57

13.3.1 Physical and Chemical Analysis ........................................................................... 57

13.3.2 Taxonomic Analysis .................................................................................................. 61

14.0 ELEMENT B5 - QUALITY CONTROL REQUIREMENTS .................................................................. 64

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

MAINTENANCE REQUIREMENTS ........................................................................................................ 67

16.0 ELEMENT B7 – INSTRUMENT CALIBRATION AND FREQUENCY ............................................. 68

17.0 ELEMENT B8 – INSPECTION/ACCEPTANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR SUPPLIES AND 

CONSUMABLES .......................................................................................................................................... 69

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

70

19.0 ELEMENT B10 – DATA MANAGEMENT, INTERPRETATION, AND REDUCTION .................. 71

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 Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Appendix 

5 

List of Figures 

Figure 4-1 Project Organization Chart 

Figure 5-1 Dredging Area and ODMDS 

Figure 5-2 Jacksonville Harbor Navigation Project 

Figure 6-1a Proposed Sampling Stations in and around Candidate Sites 1 and 2 

Figure 6-1b Proposed Sampling Stations in and around Candidate Site 3 

List of Tables 

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

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

Table 5-3 Areas of Responsibility for Principle Data Users 

Table 6-1 Fall 2010 Field Sampling and Analysis Scheme for Jacksonville ODMDS Site 

Designation Sampling Event 

Table 6-2 Estimated Schedule of Work Performed 

Table 7-1 Data Quality Objectives for 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 Infaunal Sample Identification and Station Coordinates 

Table 10-2 Clam Dredge Sample Station Identification and Station Coordinates 

Table 10-3 Epifaunal Sample Station Identification and Station Coordinates 

Table 10-4 In Situ (CTD-profiler) and Water Chemistry 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 Water Samples for Chemical Analysis 

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

Table 11-5 Container Requirements for Infaunal Samples for Taxonomic Analysis 

Table 11-6 Container Requirements for Epifaunal Samples for Identity Verification and 

Possible Vouchering 

Table 11-7 Container Requirements for Clam Dredge Samples for Identity Verification and 

Possible Vouchering 

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

Table 13-1 Analytes, Methods, and Target Reporting Limits: Water Chemistry 

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

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

Table 21-1 Minimum Reporting Requirements 

Table 21-2 Electronic Raw Data File Format 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Appendix 

6 

Appendices 

Sediment Sampling Field Log 

Water Chemistry Sampling Field Log 

Infaunal Sampling Log 

Clam Dredge Sampling Log 

Epifaunal (Trawl) Sampling Log 

Chain-of-Custody Form 

Daily Quality Control Report 

Temperature Log
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 2.0, Element A2: Table of Contents 

7 

List of Acronyms 

CCL contaminant cleanup target levels 

CQAR Chemical Quality Assurance Report 

cy cubic yards 

DQCR Daily Quality Control Report 

ERL effects range-low 

FDEP Florida Department of Environmental Protection 

FLMNH Florida Museum of Natural History (University of Florida) 

MDL method detection limit 

RL reporting limit 

NELAC National Environmental Laboratory Association Conference 

ODMDS Ocean Dredged Material Disposal Site 

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 

SMMP site management and monitoring plan 

TBD to be determined 

TEL threshold effects level 

TOC total organic carbon 

TSS total suspended solids 

USACE U.S. Army Corps of Engineers 

USEPA U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

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: April Patterson 

2. USACE QA/QC Manager: Glenn Schuster 

3. USEPA Designated Approving Official: Chris McArthur 

4. USEPA Technical Review: Chris McArthur 

5. ANAMAR Project Manager: Michelle Rau 

6. ANAMAR QA/QC Officer: Paul Berman 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

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: April N. Patterson 

701 San Marco Boulevard 

Jacksonville, Florida 32207 

Phone: (904) 232-2610 

Mobile: (904) 502-5325 

E-mail: april.n.patterson@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 Army Corps of Engineers—Jacksonville District

QA/QC Manager: Glenn R. 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 

Responsibility: QA/QC for the Jacksonville ODMDS Site Designation Studies. 

Organization: US Environmental Protection Agency, Region 4 

Designated Approving Official/Technical Reviewer: 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. 

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 

E-mail: mrau@anamarinc.com 

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

transport, chains of custody, quality assurance management, final data reporting 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 4.0, Element A4: Project/Task Organization 

10 

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: Carl M. Way 

8060 Cottage Hill Rd. 

Mobile, Alabama 36695 

Phone: (251) 633-6100 

Mobile: (252) 510-1831 

E-mail: cway@bvaenviro.com 

Responsibilities: Infaunal 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 Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 4.0, Element A4: Project/Task Organization 

11 

Figure 4-1. Project Organization Chart 

USACE 

Project Officer: April Patterson 

(904) 232-3691 

QA/QC Manager: 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/Technical Reviewer: 

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: 

Carl M. Way 

(251) 633-6100 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 5.0, Element A5: Problem Definition/Background 

12 

5.0 ELEMENT A5 - PROBLEM DEFINITION/BACKGROUND

The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region 4 (USEPA) and U.S. Army Corps of 

Engineers—Jacksonville District (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 USEPA 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 (ODMDS) to 

ensure compliance with the MPRSA. 

The MPRSA assigns basic responsibility to USEPA 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 USEPA 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 USEPA, 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 USEPA environmental criteria (Ocean Dumping Criteria 

at 40 CFR Part 227) and USEPA concurrence with USACE’s finding of compliance. Section 

103(b) authorizes USACE, with USEPA 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 

USEPA 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 Chemistry 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 

USEPA’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 Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

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) USEPA 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 chemistry 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 Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

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 and USEPA 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). The need for maintenance material disposal from Naval Station Mayport 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 Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 5.0, Element A5: Problem Definition/Background 

15 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

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 + 2.0 Million cy = 6.9 Million cy, Which is 96% of 

the Estimated Available 7.2 Million cy Capacity of Jacksonville 

ODMDS2

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 

2

 Based on the most recent MDFATE and LTFATE Modeling submitted by USACE to USEPA on July 11, 2010. 

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 is 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 Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 5.0, Element A5: Problem Definition/Background 

17 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 5.0, Element A5: Problem Definition/Background 

18 

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

USEPA 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 is approximately 7.2 million cy which represents 

approximately 96% 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 USEPA, 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 Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

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 USEPA 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 USEPA 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 

USEPA 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, USEPA 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), infauna, epifauna, 

and water chemistry 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 chemistry. 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 USEPA. ANAMAR will work as a team with USACE and USEPA personnel to collect 

sediment, benthic, fish, and water chemistry 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 Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 6.0, Element A6: Dredging Project/Task Description 

20 

FIGURE 6-1a. Proposed Sampling Stations in and around Candidate Sites 1 and 2 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 6.0, Element A6: Dredging Project/Task Description 

21 

FIGURE 6-1b. Proposed Sampling Stations in and around Candidate Site 3 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

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 was conducted 

during spring 2010 (March 28–April 2). This QAPP addresses the second survey, scheduled 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 the fall 

survey 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 Fall Sampling 

Survey

See Section 13.3 for proposed analytical methods and target detection limits. Table 6.1 lists 

types of samples or measurements to be conducted by candidate site and station. 

Table 6-1. Fall 2010 Field Sampling and Analysis Scheme for Jacksonville ODMDS 

Site Designation Sampling Event 

Sample 

Type 

Site Number 

(Station 

Number) 

Number of Samples Parameters / 

Analyses 

Collection 

Method1

Water 

Chemistry 

1 & 2 

(S02 & S04) 

1 Above and 1 Below Thermocline at 

S02 during Ebb Tide

1 Above and 1 Below Thermocline at 

S04 during Flood Tide

Total = 4 Samples 

Metals 

TSS 

Pesticides 

PAHs 

Niskin 

Bottles 

Water 

Chemistry 

3 

(N05 & N09) 

1 Above and 1 Below Thermocline at 

N05 during Flood Tide

1 Above and 1 Below Thermocline at 

N09 during Ebb Tide

Total = 4 Samples 

Metals 

TSS 

Pesticides 

PAHs 

Niskin 

Bottles 

Water 

Chemistry 

TBD 

(TBD) 

1 Field Split Sample 

Metals 

TSS 

Pesticides 

PAHs 

Niskin 

Bottles 

Infauna 

1 & 2 

(S01, S02, 

S03, S04, 

S05, S06, 

S07, S08, 

S12, & S13) 

10 Stations X 3 Replicates 

Total = 30 Samples 

Taxonomic ID 

Various Indices 

Biomass 

Grab 

Infauna 

3 

(N01, N02, 

8 X 3 Replicates = 24 

Total = 24 Samples 

Taxonomic ID 

Various Indices 

Biomass 

Grab 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 6.0, Element A6: Dredging Project/Task Description 

23 

Sample 

Type 

Site Number 

(Station 

Number) 

Number of Samples Parameters / 

Analyses 

Collection 

Method1

N03, N04, 

N06, N07, 

N08, & N09) 

Epifauna 

1 & 2 

(S02, S04, 

S05, S08, 

S12, & S13) 

4 Stations X 2 Replicate Tows Inside 

Sites = 8 Tows 

2 Stations X 2 Replicate Tows Outside 

Sites = 4 Tows 

Total = 12 Samples 

Total Biomass 

Taxonomic ID 

Species Richness 

Other Indices 

Otter trawl 

Epifauna 

3 

(N02, N04, 

N06, & N08) 

2 Stations X 2 Replicate Tows Inside 

Site = 4 Samples 

2 Stations X 2 Replicate Tows Outside 

Site = 4 Samples 

Total = 8 Samples 

Total Biomass 

Taxonomic ID 

Species Richness 

Other Indices 

Otter trawl 

Tissue 

Samples 

1 & 2 

(S02, S08, 

S12, S13 + 

S04 or S05) 

1 Invertebrate and 1 Fish Tissue 

Sample from Stations: 

S02, S08, S12, and S13 + Either

Station S04 or S05 

Total = 10 Samples Between Sites 1 & 

2 

Metals 

PCBs 

PAHs 

Organotins 

Pesticides 

Samples 

processed 

at 

laboratory 

Tissue 

Sample 

1 & 2 

(Any Station) 

1 Field Split from Any Sample In or 

Adjacent to Sites 1 & 2 

Metals 

PCBs 

PAHs 

Organotins 

Pesticides 

Samples 

processed 

at 

laboratory 

Tissue 

Samples 

3

(N02, N08 + 

N04 or N06) 

1 Invertebrate and 1 Fish Tissue 

Sample from Stations: 

N02 And N08 + Either Station N06 or

N04 

Total = 6 Samples Between Sites 1 & 2 

Metals 

PCBs 

PAHs 

Organotins 

Pesticides 

Samples 

processed 

at 

laboratory 

Tissue 

Sample 

3 

(Any Station) 

1 Field Split from Any Sample In or 

Adjacent to Site 3 

Metals 

PCBs 

PAHs 

Organotins 

Pesticides 

Samples 

processed 

at 

laboratory 

Clam Dredge 

1 & 2

(S02, S04, 

S05, S08, 

S12, & S13) 

4 Stations X 1 Tow Inside Site = 4 

Samples (2 Reps if Time) 

2 Stations X 1 Tow Outside Site = 2 

Samples (2 Reps If Time) 

Total = 6 Samples (12 if Time for 

Total Biomass 

Taxonomic ID 

Species Richness 

Other Indices 

Clam 

Dredge 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 6.0, Element A6: Dredging Project/Task Description 

24 

Sample 

Type 

Site Number 

(Station 

Number) 

Number of Samples Parameters / 

Analyses 

Collection 

Method1

Reps)

Clam Dredge 

3 

(N02, N04, 

N06, & N08) 

2 Stations X 1 Tow Inside Site = 2 

Samples (2 Reps if Time) 

2 Stations X 1 Tow Outside Site = 2 

Samples (2 Reps if Time) 

Total = 4 Samples (8 if Time for Reps) 

Total Biomass 

Taxonomic ID 

Species Richness 

Other Indices 

Clam 

dredge 

In Situ Water 

Parameters 

1 & 2

(S02, S04, & 

S08) 

1 Station Inside Sites 1 & 2 (Within 

Boundaries) + 2 Stations Outside these 

Sites 

Ebb and Flood Tides at Each Station 

Total = 6 Profiles 

CTD Data2

Temperature 

Salinity 

Dissolved O2

Turbidity 

PAR 

CTDprofiler 

In Situ Water 

Parameters 

3

(N02, N05, & 

N09) 

1 Station Inside Site 3 (Within 

Boundaries) + 2 Stations Outside Site 3

Ebb and Flood Tides at Each Station 

Total = 6 Profiles 

CTD Data2

Temperature 

Salinity 

Dissolved O2

Turbidity 

PAR 

CTDprofiler 

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 samples were taken during the spring 2010 

survey and results were compared to published sediment screening values whenever 

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 are used for reference only and are not intended for any 

regulatory decisions. The main objective of the sediment physical and chemical analyses was to 

help provide characteristics from which to compare the three candidate sites with one another 

as well as with adjacent areas. 

Infauna Survey— In this document, the term ‘infauna’ refers to those organisms greater than 

0.5 mm in length which live in sediment. Major taxonomic groups which fit the infauna 

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. 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 6.0, Element A6: Dredging Project/Task Description 

25 

Epifauna Survey—In this document, the term ‘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. 

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

and fish assemblages associated with the seafloor. Similar to the infaunal survey, taxonomic 

data and tissue analysis of selected fish and invertebrate species will be used to characterize 

each site and compare the candidate sites. These data will additionally be included the 

resultant EIS. 

Epifaunal tissue samples will be used to compare the three candidate sites with one another 

and to compare the sites with adjacent areas. Results will be compared to published screening 

values whenever appropriate. These levels include the TEL and ERL. Comparisons are used for 

reference only and are not intended for any regulatory decisions. 

Clam Dredge Sampling—The fall 2010 clam dredge survey is designed to sample larger 

infaunal community members than would normally be sampled during the previously-mentioned 

grab sampler-based infaunal survey. Large bivalves are of primary interest during dredge 

sampling. Wet Weight biomass will be collected from each sample. If time permits, data from 

non-bivalve organisms could also be collected. Burrowing echinoderms (especially sea 

cucumbers) should be set aside for the invertebrate zoologists from the Florida Museum of 

Natural History to sort through, as time allows. 

Similar to the other faunal surveys, taxonomic data and tissue analysis of invertebrate species 

will be used to characterize each site and compare the candidate sites. These data will be 

included in the resultant EIS. 

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

used to characterize each site and compare the candidate sites. Additionally, these data will be 

used in future Automated Dredging and Disposal Alternatives Modeling System Simulations 

(ADDAMS) for dredged material disposal events to document compliance with USEPA marine 

water chemistry criteria. 

6.2.3. Special Personnel or Equipment Requirements That May Indicate 

the Complexity of the Dredging Project 

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

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

senior scientists and one fish biologist will be provided by ANAMAR. ANAMAR may also provide 

two invertebrate zoologists from the Florida Museum of Natural History having suitable 

specialized professional training which qualifies them to help sort epifaunal 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 during the spring 2010 survey 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 6.0, Element A6: Dredging Project/Task Description 

26 

was 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 

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

Sediment samples will not be collected during the fall survey. 

Sediment Infaunal Survey—Benthic infaunal invertebrates greater than 0.5 mm collected in 

benthic grab samples will be sorted and identified to lowest practical 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. 

Epifaunal Survey—Epibenthic invertebrates and demersal fishes collected during the otter 

trawl surveys will be sorted and determined to lowest practical 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. 

Clam Dredge Survey—Large bivalves such as clams and scallops collected by rocking chair 

dredge (or hydraulic dredge) will be weighed (wet weight), sorted, and determined to lowest 

practical taxonomic group by ANAMAR scientists with the assistance of Florida Museum of 

Natural History invertebrate zoology staff members. 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 

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 was conducted during the period March 28–April 2, 2010. The fall 2010 

survey is planned for the period September 13–18, 2010, with additional dates before and after 

the survey for dive reconnaissance of sidescan targets. The following table provides an 

estimated schedule for the completion of the work. 

Table 6-2. Estimated Schedule of Work Performed 

Responsibility

Estimated Schedule for 

Sampling/Testing/Reporting Estimated Date

ANAMAR Submit Draft SAP/QAPP to USEPA and USACE 

for Approval; Allow FDEP to Comment 

March 2010 

(Completed)

ANAMAR Address Comments and Finalize SAP/QAPP March 2010 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 6.0, Element A6: Dredging Project/Task Description 

27 

(completed)

USACE/USEPA/ANAMAR Conduct Spring 2010 Site Designation Study March 28–April 2, 2010 

(Completed)

ANAMAR Submit Sediment, Water, and Infaunal 

Samples to Laboratories for Analysis 

April 2010 

(Completed)

Laboratories (see section 4.3) Submit Spring 2010 Analytical Reports to 

ANAMAR 

July 2010 

(Completed)

ANAMAR Review Data from Spring Sampling Event: 

Analytical Reports, Begin Compiling Data 

Tables, Maps, and Figures 

July–August 2010 

(Completed)

ANAMAR Submit Draft SAP/QAPP to USEPA and USACE 

for Approval 

Early September 2010 

ANAMAR Address Comments and Finalize SAP/QAPP Early September 2010 

USACE/USEPA/ANAMAR Conduct Fall 2010 Site Designation Study September 13–18, 2010

ANAMAR Submit Infauna 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/USEPA 

Early January 2011 

USACE and USEPA Review Draft Report and Submit Comments to 

ANAMAR 

January 2011 

ANAMAR Respond to Comments by USACE and USEPA January–February 2011 

ANAMAR Submit Final Report Containing Results of 

Both Surveys to USACE/USEPA 

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. 

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. 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 6.0, Element A6: Dredging Project/Task Description 

28 

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 USEPA which 

address any modifications to the project. 

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

address all comments. 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

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

29 

7.0 ELEMENT A7 - QUALITY OBJECTIVES AND CRITERIA FOR MEASUREMENT 

DATA

Table 7-1. Data Quality Objectives for 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 dDays 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 Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

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

30 

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 

Snalysis 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 

 

* If SRMs are not available, use laboratory control samples. 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

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

31 

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

Infauna 

(Invertebrates) 

>10% of Samples 

Sorted by Each 

Person will be Resorted and Reidentified by a 

Qualified Taxonomist 

>95% Accuracy of Sorting 

and Identification 

Undetermined 

(Not Critical) 

Epifauna 

(Invertebrates) 

10% of 

Specimens/Station 

Re-identified by 

Qualified Biologist 

Zero (0) Misidentifications Undetermined 

(Not Critical) 

Epifauna 

(Fishes) 

10% of 

Specimens/Station 

Re-identified by 

Qualified Biologist 

Zero (0) Misidentifications Undetermined 

(Not Critical) 

Clam Dredged 

Invertebrates 

10% of 

Bivalves/Station Reidentified by Qualified 

Biologist 

Zero (0) Misidentifications Undetermined 

(Not Critical) 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 8.0, Element A8: Special Training Requirements/Certification 

32 

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. USEPA 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 epifauna 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 Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 9.0, Element A9: Documentation and Records 

33 

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, Clam 

Dredged Fauna 

ANAMAR will Tabulate In situ Data and Submit as Part 

of the Report 

Epifauna: Invertebrate and Fish Identification, Weighed, 

Enumeration, Indices, etc.; Results Summarized and 

Discussed in Report. 

Clam Dredge Fauna: Identify Bivalves Captured, 

Weighed, Enumeration, 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 

Barry Vittor & 

Associates, Inc. 

Infaunal Survey Taxonomic Identification and Enumeration Data 

Summary, Quality Control, and Narrative if Applicable 

ANAMAR will provide summary tables of laboratory data including sample identification, analyte, 

results, limits for comparison, and qualifiers. 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. Due to their large size, all original laboratory data packages will 

be submitted only as electronic files. 

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 USEPA, 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 

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. 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 9.0, Element A9: Documentation and Records 

34 

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

submitted to USACE—Jacksonville District and USEPA, 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 

ArcMap 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 USEPA, 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 

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

memory (CD-ROM) with ISO-9660 format. 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 9.0, Element A9: Documentation and Records 

35 

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 

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 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 9.0, Element A9: Documentation and Records 

36 

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 Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 11.0, Element B2: Sampling and Methods Requirements 

37 

GROUP B. PROJECT MANAGEMENT 

10.0 ELEMENT B1 - SAMPLING PROCESS DESIGN

10.1 Scheduled Project Activities, Including Measurement Activities

The spring 2010 survey was conducted during the period March 28–April 2, 2010. The fall 2010 

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

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 USACE—Jacksonville, USEPA 

Region 4, and ANAMAR. USEPA 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 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. 

Problem: Otter trawl becomes badly damaged during use. 

Solution: Repair trawl, or use an alternate trawl (OSV Bold has additional trawl gear). 

Problem: Rocking chair dredge in unusable condition and irreparable. 

Solution: Conduct dredge sampling using hydraulic dredge (located on OSV Bold). 

Problem: Both dredges are in unusable condition and irreparable. 

Solution: Omit dredge sampling from survey unless another dredge can be obtained during 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 11.0, Element B2: Sampling and Methods Requirements 

38 

survey (dredge sampling is optional and not discussed in guidance documents). 

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

on the field sheets. 

10.4 Procedures for Locating and Selecting Environmental Samples

Fall 2010 sample stations for the collection of water, faunal tissue, infauna, and epifauna 

samples are listed below. Sample locations within the study areas were determined by USEPA 

and USACE—Jacksonville District. The sample identifications and coordinates are organized 

below in Tables 10-1 through 10-4. The sample IDs were derived from the location name 

(Jacksonville, JAX for short), plus the season (Fa is short for fall) and year (10 is derived from 

2010), the station number (example: N01), and an abbreviated name of the sample type (INF is 

short for infaunal sample, EPI is short for epifaunal sample). Many sample IDs will have an 

additional suffix added to denote the replicate ID for each particular station. 

Table 10-1. Infaunal Sample Identifications and Station Coordinates 

Sample ID1

Replicate2

ID 

(3/Station)

Sample Type & 

Description 

Latitude (Dec. 

Degrees) 

Longitude 

(Dec. 

Degrees) 

JAX-Fa10-N01-INF 

A 

B 

C 

Candidate Site 3: 

8 Infaunal Stations 

3 Replicate Samples per 

Station 

(24 Total Samples for this 

Site) 

30.53332466 81.3283426 

JAX-Fa10-N02-INF 

A 

B 

C 

30.50840910 81.3429191 

JAX-Fa10-N03-INF 

A 

B 

C 

30.49242385 81.3353077 

JAX- Fa10-N04-INF 

A 

B 

C 

30.49248986 81.3085738 

JAX- Fa10-N06-INF 

A 

B 

C 

30.47249195 81.3357043 

JAX- Fa10-N07-INF 

A 

B 

C 

30.47688254 81.3106165 

JAX- Fa10-N08-INF 

A 

B 

C 

30.46626911 81.2858312 

JAX- Fa10-N09-INF 

A 

B 

C 

30.44531565 81.2929732 

JAX- Fa10-S01-INF 

A 

B 

C 

Candidate Sites 1 & 2: 

10 Infaunal Stations 

3 Replicate Samples per 

30.36370728 81.30309265 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 11.0, Element B2: Sampling and Methods Requirements 

39 

Sample ID1

Replicate2

ID 

(3/Station)

Sample Type & 

Description 

Latitude (Dec. 

Degrees) 

Longitude 

(Dec. 

Degrees) 

JAX- Fa10-S02-INF 

A 

B 

C 

Station 

(30 Total Samples for these 

Two Sites)

30.36311619 81.2873387 

JAX- Fa10-S03-INF 

A 

B 

C 

30.35000853 81.28421537 

JAX- Fa10-S04-INF 

A 

B 

C 

30.32153037 81.2966211 

JAX- Fa10-S05-INF 

A 

B 

C 

30.32230372 81.2841042 

JAX- Fa10-S06-INF 

A 

B 

C 

30.31529371 81.2933219 

JAX- Fa10-S07-INF 

A 

B 

C 

30.28450908 81.2723900 

JAX- Fa10-S08-INF 

A 

B 

C 

30.46626911 81.2858312 

JAX- Fa10-S12-INF 

A 

B 

C 

30.33336315 81.29842003 

JAX- Fa10-S13-INF 

A 

B 

C 

30.35000853 81.28421537 

1

The ‘Fa’ portion of the sample ID stands for fall and allows for quick differentiation 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 Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 11.0, Element B2: Sampling and Methods Requirements 

40 

Table 10-2. Clam Dredge Sample Identifications and Station Coordinates 

Sample ID1

Replicate2

ID 

(1–2 per 

Station) Sample Type & Description

Latitude 

(Dec. Degrees) 

Longitude 

(Dec. 

Degrees) 

JAX-Fa10-N02-CLA A 

B Candidate Site 3: 

4 Clam Dredge Stations (2 

Inside Site and 2 Outside Site) 

At Least 1 Tow per Station (2 

Tows if Time Permits) 

(Between 4 And 8 Total 

Samples for this Site) 

30.50840910 81.3429191 

JAX- Fa10-N04-CLA A 

B 30.49248986 81.3085738 

JAX- Fa10-N06-CLA A 

B 30.47249195 81.3357043 

JAX- Fa10-N08-CLA A 

B 30.46626911 81.2858312 

JAX- Fa10-S02-CLA A 

B 

Candidate Sites 1 & 2: 

6 Clam Dredge Stations (4 

Inside Sites and 2 Outside 

Sites) 

At Least 1 Tow per Station (2 

Tows if Time Permits) 

(Between 6 and 12 Total 

Samples for These Two Sites)

30.36311619 81.2873387 

JAX- Fa10-S04-CLA A 

B 30.32153037 81.2966211 

JAX- Fa10-S05-CLA A 

B 30.32230372 81.2841042 

JAX- Fa10-S08-CLA A 

B 30.46626911 81.2858312 

JAX- Fa10-S12-CLA A 

B 30.33336315 81.29842003 

JAX- Fa10-S13-CLA A 

B 30.35000853 81.28421537 

1

The ‘Fa’ portion of the sample ID stands for fall and allows for quick differentiation 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-Fa10-

N02-CLA-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 Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 11.0, Element B2: Sampling and Methods Requirements 

41 

Table 10-3. Epifaunal (Trawl) Sample Identifications and Station Coordinates 

Sample ID1

Replicate2

ID 

(2/Station) Sample Type & Description

Latitude 

(Dec. Degrees) 

Longitude 

(Dec. 

Degrees) 

JAX-Fa10-N02-EPI A 

B 

Candidate Site 3: 

4 Epifaunal Stations (2 Inside 

Site and 2 Outside Site) 

2 Replicate Tows per Station 

(8 Total Samples for this Site) 

30.50840910 81.3429191 

JAX-Fa10-N04-EPI A 

B 30.49248986 81.3085738 

JAX-Fa10-N06-EPI A 

B 30.47249195 81.3357043 

JAX-Fa10-N08-EPI A 

B 30.46626911 81.2858312 

JAX-Fa10-S02-EPI A 

B 

Candidate Sites 1 & 2: 

6 Epifaunal Stations (4 Inside 

and 2 Outside the Two Sites) 

2 Replicate Tows per Station 

(12 Total Samples for these 

Two Sites)

30.36311619 81.2873387 

JAX-Fa10-S04-EPI A 

B 30.32153037 81.2966211 

JAX-Fa10-S05-EPI A 

B 30.32230372 81.2841042 

JAX-Fa10-S08-EPI A 

B 30.46626911 81.2858312 

JAX-Fa10-S12-EPI A 

B 30.33336315 81.29842003 

JAX-Fa10-S13-EPI A 

B 30.35000853 81.28421537 

1

The ‘Fa’ portion of the sample ID stands for fall and allows for quick differentiation 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-Fa10-

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 Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 11.0, Element B2: Sampling and Methods Requirements 

42 

Table 10-4. Tissue Sample Identifications and Station Coordinates 

Sample ID1

Replicate2

ID 

(2/Station) Sample Type & Description

Latitude 

(Dec. Degrees) 

Longitude 

(Dec. 

Degrees) 

JAX-Fa10-N02-TIS A 

B 

Candidate Site 3: 

1 Invertebrate and 1 Fish Sample 

from Stations N02 and N08, + 

Invertebrate and Fish Samples 

from Either Station N04 or N06 

(6 Total Samples for this Site) 

30.50840910 81.3429191 

JAX-Fa10-N04-TIS A 

B 30.49248986 81.3085738 

JAX-Fa10-N06-TIS A 

B 30.47249195 81.3357043 

JAX-Fa10-N08-TIS A 

B 30.46626911 81.2858312 

JAX-Fa10-N10-TIS 

(field split3

) A 1 Tissue Sample Field Split 

(from any Site 3 Sample) TBD in Field TBD in Field 

JAX-Fa10-S02-TIS A 

B 

Candidate Sites 1 & 2: 

1 Invertebrate and 1 Fish Sample 

from Stations S02, S08, S12, and 

S13 + Invertebrate and Fish 

Samples from Either Station S04 

or S05 

(10 Total Samples for this Site) 

30.36311619 81.2873387 

JAX-Fa10-S04-TIS A 

B 30.32153037 81.2966211 

JAX-Fa10-S05-TIS A 

B 30.32230372 81.2841042 

JAX-Fa10-S08-TIS A 

B 30.46626911 81.2858312 

JAX-Fa10-S12-TIS A 

B 30.33336315 81.29842003 

JAX-Fa10-S13-TIS A 

B 30.35000853 81.28421537 

JAX-Fa10-S14-TIS 

(field split3

) A 

1 Tissue Sample Field Split 

(from any Sample from Sites 1 

And 2) 

TBD in Field TBD in Field 

1

The ‘Fa’ portion of the sample ID stands for fall and allows for quick differentiation 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-Fa10-

N02-TIS-A’ written or typed on the label. This code system is intended to allow easy differentiation 

between samples. 

3

A field split will be taken from one tissue sample and will be coded in a way that disallows the laboratory 

from learning which sample it was taken from. 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 11.0, Element B2: Sampling and Methods Requirements 

43 

Table 10-4. In Situ (CTD-profiler) and Water Chemistry Station Identifications and 

Station Coordinates 

Station ID1 Sample Type 

Longitude 

(Dec. 

Degrees) 

Longitude 

(Dec. 

Degrees) 

JAX- Fa10-N02-CTD A 

B Candidate Site 3: In Situ Water 

Column (Ctd-profiler) has 1 Station 

within the Site And 2 Stations Outside 

the Site Boundaries 

(Ebb and Flood Tides per Station) 

30.50840910 81.3429191

JAX- Fa10-N05-CTD A 

B 30.48289339 81.3224904

JAX- Fa10-N09-CTD A 

B 30.44531565 81.2929732

JAX- Fa10-S02-CTD A 

B Candidate Sites 1 & 2: In Situ Water 

Column (Ctd-profiler) has 1 Station 

Within the Site and 4 Stations Outside 

the Site Boundaries 

(Ebb and Flood Tides per Station) 

30.36311619 81.2873387

JAX- Fa10-S04-CTD A 

B 30.32153037 81.2966211

JAX- Fa10-S08-CTD A 

B 30.27672924 81.2879808

JAX-Fa10-N05-WC AT 

BT 

Candidate Site 3: 

Water Chemistry taken at Station 

N05 during Flood Tide

Water Chemistry taken at Station 

N09 during Ebb Tide 

2 Samples per Station [1 Sample 

Above Thermocline (‘AT’) and 1 

Sample Below Thermocline (‘BT’)] 

30.48289339 81.3224904 

JAX-Fa10-N09-WC AT 

BT 30.44531565 81.2929732 

JAX-Fa10-[xxx]-WC 

(field split2

) AT 1 Water Chemistry Field Split (from 

any Sample) TBD in Field TBD in Field

JAX-Fa10-S02-WC AT 

BT 

Candidate Sites 1 & 2: 

Water Chemistry Taken at Station 

S02 during Ebb Tide

Water Chemistry Taken at Station 

S04 During Flood Tide 

2 Samples per Station [1 Sample 

Above Thermocline (‘AT’) and 1 

Sample Below Thermocline (‘BT’)]

30.36311619 81.2873387 

JAX-Fa10-S04-WC AT 

BT 30.32153037 81.2966211 

1

The ‘Fa’ portion of the sample ID stands for fall and allows for quick differentiation between the two sampling 

events based on sample ID. 

2

A field split will be taken from one sample and will be coded in a way that disallows the laboratory from learning 

which sample it duplicates. 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 11.0, Element B2: Sampling and Methods Requirements 

44 

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 Analyses

Parameters 

Water 

Chemistry 

Samples 

Tissue 

Samples 

Infaunal & 

Large Bivalve 

Samples 

Epifaunal 

Samples 

Chemistry/Analyses 

Metals Y Y — —

Pesticides Y Y — —

Organotins — Y — — 

PCB Congeners N Y — —

PAHs 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. 

N = Parameters previously sampled in June 2009 around Jacksonville ODMDS (USEPA 2010a) and found not to 

exceed detection levels. Also PCBs are non-polar, making them practically insoluble in water (Patnaik 1999). 

— = 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. Clam dredge samples will focus solely on large bivalves. Non-bivalve organisms will only be 

identified/enumerated if time permits. 

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 and USEPA prior to implementation. 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 11.0, Element B2: Sampling and Methods Requirements 

45 

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. In the absence of published clam 

dredge sampling guidance, the procedures for trawl sampling will be modified for use with the 

clam dredge. General field methodologies and procedures follow those outlined in the Green 

Book (USACE/USEPA 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 

Sampling was performed in a span of four days at sea during the spring 2010 sampling event, 

and it is expected to take a similar amount of time 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 USEPA 

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 USEPA to ANAMAR for inclusion in the draft and final reports. For sediment and infaunal 

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

chemistry samples will be taken within 200 m of the sampling station. Epifaunal and clam 

dredge transect starting points (i.e., when the trawl or dredge 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 

Sediment sampling was conducted during the spring 2010 survey. No further sediment 

sampling will be done during the fall 2010 survey. 

Infaunal Sampling 

USEPA and USACE, in coordination with ANAMAR personnel, will collect a total of 54 infaunal 

replicate samples (18 stations x 3 replicates per station) during the fall 2010 sampling event. 

Samples will be collected with a Young-modified Van Veen grab with an internal volume of 

approximately 0.04 m2

. 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 resampled. 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 wet-sieved 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 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 11.0, Element B2: Sampling and Methods Requirements 

46 

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 USEPA), or a 10% buffered formalin solution (supplied by ANAMAR) will be used as 

a fixative in infaunal sample buckets. Buckets will be labeled to identify the samples contained 

within each. 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 Barry A. Vittor 

& Associates, Inc. for sorting and analysis following completion of each sampling event. 

Clam Dredge Sampling 

Large bivalves (e.g., clams, mussels, scallops) will be collected in a 56-cm wide by 86-cm long 

and 36-cm high rocking chair dredge with an estimated dredge depth of 7.6 cm, but with 

adjustable tynes which allow a variety of penetration depths. The stretch mesh size of the bag 

will be determined during mobilization onboard the Bold. If the rocking chair dredge proves 

inoperable, a hydraulic dredge will be substituted. Sampled stations will be the same as for 

epifaunal (trawl) stations. 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 830 m2

 to 1,100 

m2

 of seafloor coverage per 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, allowing sample loss. At least one dredge sample will be taken per station, but an 

additional sample will be taken per station if time permits. 

Spatial coordinates will be recorded at the beginning and end of each tow, along with the 

direction of travel, water depth, tide sequence, estimated substrate based on trawl wear/catch, 

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

thoroughly removed from the dredge trawl. Each dredge sample will then be weighed (wet 

weight) using a 19-liter 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. Bivalves will 

be sorted, enumerated, and field-identified. A sub-sample of each bivalve species will be 

measured if logistically feasible (valve length in selected clam and scallop species). Non-bivalve 

organisms are of lesser importance during the clam dredge survey, but may be recorded if time 

allows. 

It is possible that some specimens may be ideal for tissue sampling. If deemed desirable, 

tissue samples will be extracted from specimens using methods discussed in the epifaunal 

tissue sampling section that follows. 

Upon completion of field sorting and identification of dredged specimens, representative bivalve 

specimens will be retained for later identity confirmation. Specimens will be relaxed (if 

appropriate) using magnesium chloride solution, or with the addition of clove oil and then 

placed in 50–70% ethanol for long-term storage. Preserved specimens and associated field 

data will later be deposited and archived at the Florida Museum of Natural History Invertebrate 

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

Epifaunal Sampling 

During both the spring and fall 2010 sampling events, 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. A total of two 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 11.0, Element B2: Sampling and Methods Requirements 

47 

tows will be conducted per sampled station. 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 

3,390 m2

 to 4,500 m2 of seafloor coverage per tow, provided the trawl doors are positioned 7.3 

m apart with the lead line touching the seafloor throughout the 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 end of each tow, along 

with the direction of travel, water depth, tide sequence, estimated substrate based on trawl 

wear/catch, 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 19-liter 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. If time permits, the 

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

consist of standard length for teleosts, stretch total 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 16 tissue samples (invertebrates and fishes) plus 2 

field splits will be taken. 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, soft 

portions of clam or scallop). Samples are measured as wet weights of tissue. A 4-gram portion 

of tissue will be used for metal analysis, a 30-gram portion for PCBs, chlorinated pesticides, and 

organotins; and a 10-gram portion will be taken to test for PAHs [totaling 44 grams (1.6 

ounces) minimum needed for analysis]. If a specimen does not allow for at least 44 grams of 

tissue, multiple specimens of the same species and similar size classes may be used from the 

same trawl sample. At least one of the tissue samples (ideally two samples) will need to weigh 

at least 270 grams (9.5 ounces) for use in laboratory quality control and triplicate runs of 

various analytes. 

Taxa will be selected for tissue sampling and analysis based on a series of criteria including 

criteria given in Pequegnat et al. (1990), which suggests chosing edible taxa over inedible ones, 

and the sampling of both fish and shellfish. Additional considerations include choosing taxa not 

known to undertake extensive migrations into other habitats, choosing taxa having longer life 

spans over shorter life spans, and picking taxa having enough biomass to extract enough tissue 

for analysis. Finally, taxa closely related to those sampled during the Fernandina ODMDS 

October 1985 study may be useful for purposes of comparison. Taxa suitable for tissue 

sampling include, but are not limited to, the following: 

3⁄4 Mantis shrimp (Gibbesia neglecta) 

3⁄4 Rock shrimp (Sicyonia spp.) 

3⁄4 Portunid crabs (Portunus spp.) 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 11.0, Element B2: Sampling and Methods Requirements 

48 

3⁄4 Spotted hake (Urophycis regia) 

3⁄4 Weakfish (Cynoscion regalis) 

3⁄4 Spot (Leiostomus xanthurus) 

3⁄4 Kingfish (AKA Whiting) (Menticirrhus spp.) 

3⁄4 Atlantic croaker (Micropogonias undulatus) 

Stainless steel fillet knives and forceps will be used to extract muscle on specimens selected for 

tissue analysis. Equipment contacting tissue samples will be first cleaned and decontaminated 

as described in Florida Department of Environmental Protection Cleaning/Decontamination 

procedures (FC 1000). Tissue sample methods and materials will follow the guidance of 

Pequegnat et al. (1990), but will differ in terms of the mass needed for analysis and in the use 

of Teflon® material in partial replacement of aluminum foil. Efforts will be made to extract as 

much muscle tissue as possible from each sampled individual in an effort to allow for laboratory 

splitting of samples and/or archiving of extra tissues for later use. Upon extraction of tissues, 

each sample will be wrapped in a portion of pre-cleaned Teflon® bag and weighed using a 100-

gram Micro Line hanging scale having an accuracy of within 0.3% of maximum weight. The 

Teflon®-wrapped sample will then be wrapped in clean aluminum foil. The wrapped sample will 

then be double-bagged in labeled Ziploc® bags and stored frozen within a freezer onboard the 

ship. The temperature within the freezer will be monitored using a thermometer and recorded 

on a temperature log. Upon conclusion of the offshore survey, the tissue samples will be kept 

frozen for later delivery to the CAS laboratory. 

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

from each trawl will be labeled and placed in Ziploc® bags with drain holes (one bag per trawl 

sample) and the bags immersed in a 19 liter 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. Each bucket will then be sealed using a securefitting, 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. Sample codes will 

be written on the lid of each bucket using an oil pencil or permanent ink marker. 

Invertebrate specimens will be relaxed (if appropriate) using a chemical supplied by the Florida 

Museum of Natural History, Invertebrate Zoology Collection, and placed in individual labeled 

containers containing 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 

Just as in the spring survey, the fall 2010 sampling event will include in situ water parameters 

such as temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, and photosynthetically active 

radiation. These parameters will be recorded throughout the water column in each candidate 

site. Additional water profiles 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-
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 11.0, Element B2: Sampling and Methods Requirements 

49 

profiler) supplied by USEPA. Data obtained using the CTD-profiler will be given to ANAMAR for 

post-processing using 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, a total of eight water chemistry samples (plus 1 field split) will be 

collected during the fall 2010 survey. At each station, samples will be collected from above the 

thermocline and below the thermocline near the substrate. The field split sample can be taken 

from any of the other samples. Four 10-L Niskin 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 CAS. ANAMAR will decontaminate the Niskin bottles with trace-metal-grade 

nitric acid and pesticide-grade methanol. Efforts will be made to contain all rinsate and to avoid 

leakage of these chemicals. All water samples will be stored at less than 4 ̊C on wet ice inside 

coolers and/or in a refrigerated unit for preservation. Samples will be delivered to CAS 

laboratory following completion of the fall 2010 survey. 

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. 

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 sample-handling equipment will occur before mobilization and between 

sampling stations in order to prevent any contamination of samples. 

Decontamination Procedures (Except Niskin Bottle Decontamination)

• 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. 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 11.0, Element B2: Sampling and Methods Requirements 

50 

Niskin Bottles 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 

• Rinse with trace-metal-grade nitric acid (contain rinsate in sealed container) 

• Rinse with pesticide grade methanol (contain rinsate in sealed container) 

• 2X Rinse with deionized water 

• Air dry 

Field Splits/Duplicates 

One water chemistry field split sample will be collected during the fall 2010 sampling event. A 

total of two field split tissue samples will be collected during the fall 2010 sampling event. The 

field split samples will each be given unique identification codes from that of the native sample 

to ensure the samples are blind to the laboratories conducting the analyses. 

Sample Homogenization 

No homogenization will be necessary during the fall 2010 survey. 

Sample Handling Prior to Shipment to Laboratories 

After collection, the water chemistry 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 ensure compliance with USEPA 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. 

Tissue samples will be stored at or below 0 ̊C (frozen) inside a freezer onboard the OSV Bold. 

Infaunal samples will be stored without thermal preservation, within an aqueous solution of 

NOTOXhisto fixative. Representative fish specimens from the trawl sampling will be stored in a 

solution of 10% buffered formalin within 19-L plastic buckets, while representative invertebrates 

from the trawls will be stored in either 50–70% ethanol, or frozen, based on specimen sizes. 

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

preservation 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 use 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. 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 11.0, Element B2: Sampling and Methods Requirements 

51 

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

19-Liter plastic buckets with tight-fitting lids during transport to ANAMAR headquarters. 

Invertebrates captured during epifaunal surveys will be stored and transported in 50–70% 

ethanol inside 19-Liter plastic buckets with tight-fitting lids. Infaunal samples will be stored and 

transported in undiluted NOTOXhisto fixative inside 19-liter buckets. Infaunal samples will then 

be shipped to Barry A. Vittor & Associates, Inc. Epifaunal 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 are 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 USEPA 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 

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, infauna, and epifauna samples. Onboard facilities include laboratories 

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

protected sample storage (USEPA 2010b). 

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

epifauna, and water chemistry along with recording in situ water column readings. ANAMAR 

will provide stainless steel pans, sample containers, taxonomic literature, cameras, scales, 

measuring devices, certain fixatives, labels, field sheets, and coolers for use with various 

samples. 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 11.0, Element B2: Sampling and Methods Requirements 

52 

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 USEPA 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 

No sediment sampling is planned for the fall 2010 survey. 

Infauna 

Refer to Section 11.1. Table 11-5 lists container requirements for infaunal taxonomic analysis. 

Clam Dredging 

Refer to Section 11.1. Table 11-7 lists container requirements for clam dredge sample identity 

verification. 

Epifauna 

Refer to Section 11.1. Table 11-4 lists the minimum volume needed for analysis of tissue 

chemistry and Table 11-6 lists container requirements for epifaunal identification verification. 

Physicochemical Studies of the Water Column 

Refer to Section 11.1. Table 11-2 lists the minimum volume needed for analysis of water 

chemistry, and Table 11-3 listes container requirements for water sample analysis. 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 11.0, Element B2: Sampling and Methods Requirements 

53 

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

A

For purposes of matrix spike analysis in the laboratory, one sample will consist of at least 12.5 liters of 

water about three times the normal amount needed for metal and organic analyses). This is in addition 

to the one field split. 

B

For purposes of quality control in the laboratory, one sample will consist of a >270-gram portion of 

tissue (more than seven times the normal amount needed for metal and organic analyses). This is in 

addition to the one field split sample. 

C

Only tissue will be tested for PCBs and organotins (water will not be tested for these analytes). 

Table 11-3. 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 

(3.5 L for Lab 

QC of One 

Sample) 

Nitric Acid to 

pH < 2 

6 Months for All Metals 

Except Mercury; 14 Days 

for Mercury 

Organics (Pesticides, 

PAHs) Amber Glass 

3 L 

(9 L for Lab 

QC for One 

Sample) 

Cool to <4 ̊C 

7 days for Sample 

Extraction, 40 Days After 

Extraction for Analysis 

Table 11-4. Container Requirements for Tissue Samples for Chemical Analysis

MATRIX - TISSUE 

Parameters Container Type and Size Preservation Holding Time 

Metals 

Teflon®, And 

Aluminum Foil, 

DoubleBagged in 

Ziploc® Bags 

Small Ziploc®

(Size Not 

Critical) 

Frozen Up to 1 Year if Kept Frozen 

(<0°C) 

Organics (Pesticides, 

PAHs, Organotins, PCBs)

Teflon®, and 

Aluminum Foil, 

Doublebagged in 

Ziploc® Bags 

Small Ziploc®

(Size Not 

Critical) 

Frozen Up to 1 Year if Kept Frozen 

(<0°C) 

Analytical Group 

Volume Water 

per Sample 

Volume Tissue per 

Sample 

Metals 1.5 LA 4 g Wet WeightB

Organics (Pesticides, PAHs, PCBsC, OrganotinsC) 3 LA 40 g Wet WeightB
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 11.0, Element B2: Sampling and Methods Requirements 

54 

Table 11-5. Container Requirements for Infaunal Samples for Taxonomic Analysis

Parameters Container Type and Size Preservation Holding Time 

Benthic Infauna 

(Invertebrates) 

Cloth Bag 

Contained 

within a 19-

Liter Bucket 

Ca. 1 L Bag 

Undiluted 

NOTOXhisto 

or 

10% Buffered 

Formalin 

Indefinite 

Table 11-6. Container Requirements for Epifaunal Samples for Identity Verification 

and Possible Vouchering

Parameters Container Type and Size Preservation Holding Time 

Epifaunal 

Invertebrates 

Various Ziptie 

Bags, Small 

Containers 

Based on 

Specimen 

Size 

50–70% 

Ethanol 

Solution or 

Frozen (if 

Large) 

Indefinite 

(Suitable for Long-term 

Storage) 

Epifaunal 

Small/Medium Fishes 

Ziploc® bags 

Contained 

Within 19-liter 

Plastic bucket 

4 L Ziploc®

10% Buffered 

Formalin or 

Undiluted 

NOTOXhisto 

Change to 70% Ethanol 

Within 1 Month 

Larger Fishes too Big 

for 19-liter Bucket 

Large Plastic 

Bags 190 Liter Bag Frozen or on Wet Ice 

Eventually Fix in 10% 

Buffered Formalin, and 

Change to 70% Ethanol 

Within 1 Month 

Table 11-7. Container Requirements for Clam Dredge Samples for Identity 

Verification and Possible Vouchering

Parameters Container Type and Size Preservation Holding Time 

Bivalves, Other 

Invertebrates 

Various Ziptie 

Bags, Small 

Containers 

Based on 

Specimen 

Size 

50–70% 

Ethanol 

Solution or 

Frozen (if 

Large) 

Indefinite 

(Suitable for Long-term 

Storage) 

Non-bivalve 

Invertebrates 

(Optional) 

Various Ziptie 

Bags, Small 

Containers 

Based on 

Specimen 

Size 

50–70% 

Ethanol 

Solution or 

Frozen (if 

Large) 

Indefinite 

(Suitable for Long-term 

Storage) 

All water samples will be preserved in cold storage or on wet ice to <4 ̊C. All epifaunal tissue 

samples will be kept frozen (<0 ̊C) in a freezer or (briefly) on wet ice. A refrigerated trailer will 

be used to transport samples from the field to ANAMAR headquarters prior to shipment to 

laboratories. 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), if applicable. 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 12.0, Element B3: Sample Handling and Custody Requirements 

55 

12.0 ELEMENT B3 – SAMPLE HANDLING AND CUSTODY REQUIREMENTS 

Sample Handling 

All sample containers will be labeled accurately and properly. 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 applicable 

 

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 

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, 

File Name Purpose 

 

Water Chemistry 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. 

Clam Dredge 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 Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 12.0, Element B3: Sample Handling and Custody Requirements 

56 

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 and tracking number. The laboratory will be contacted 

to confirm receipt of samples. 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 

USEPA 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 USEPA 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 (i.e., tissues, water, infauna) 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 Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 14.0, Element B5: Quality Control Requirements 

57 

13.0 ELEMENT B4 – ANALYTICAL METHODS REQUIREMENTS

13.1 Subsampling

Not applicable. 

13.2 Preparation of the Samples

Not applicable. 

13.3 Analytical Methods

13.3.1 Physical and Chemical Analysis

No sediment samples for physical analysis will be taken during the fall 2010 survey. CAS uses 

a reductive precipitation procedure to reduce the interferences from salts for metals analysis. 

Organic compounds are not affected by salt interferences. Epifaunal tissue sample analyses 

will be reported by CAS on both a wet and dry weight basis. In the resultant report, the 

tissue sample analyses will be summarizes on only a wet weight basis. 

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 and USEPA is required. 

Tables 13-1 and 13-2 summarize analyses, methods and target detection limits for chemical 

parameters. Parameters in red within the tables indicate deviations from SERIM guidance. 

These deviations have been approved by the USACE and USEPA. 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 details. 

Table 13-1. Analytes, Methods, and Target Reporting Limits: Water Chemistry

Test Parameter Test Method Reporting Limit 

METALS/OTHERS 

 Arsenic 6010b/200.8 1 μg/L 

 Beryllium 6010b/200.8 1 μg/L 

 Cadmium 6010b/200.8 1 μg/L 

 Chromium 6010b/200.8 1 μg/L 

 Copper 6010b/200.8 1 μg/L 

 Lead 6010b/200.8 1 μg/L 

 Mercury 7470 0.2 μg/L 

 Nickel 6010b/200.8 1 μg/L 

 Selenium 6010b/200.8 2 μg/L 

 Silver 6010b/200.8 1 μg/L 

 Zinc 6010b/200.8 1 μg/L 

Total Suspended Solids 160.1 5 mg/L 

PESTICIDES 

 Aldrin 8081 0.5 μg/L 

 Chlordane & derivatives 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 14.0, Element B5: Quality Control Requirements 

58 

Table 13-1. Analytes, Methods, and Target Reporting Limits: Water Chemistry

Test Parameter Test Method Reporting Limit 

 Technical Chlordane 8081 0.5 μg/L 

 α (cis)–Chlordane 8081 0.5 μg/L 

 γ (trans)–Chlordane 8081 0.5 μg/L 

 Oxychlordane 8081 0.5 μg/L 

 Cis-Nonachlor 8081 0.5 μg/L 

 Trans-Nonachlor 8081 0.5 μg/L 

 DDT & derivatives 

 o,p’ (2,4’)-DDD 8081 0.05 μg/L 

 p,p’ (4,4’)-DDD 8081 0.05 μg/L 

 o,p’ (2,4’)-DDE 8081 0.05 μg/L 

 p,p’ (4,4’)-DDE 8081 0.05 μg/L 

 o,p’ (2,4’)-DDT 8081 0.05 μg/L 

 p,p’ (4,4’)-DDT 8081 0.05 μg/L 

 Dieldrin 8081 0.01 μg/L 

 Endosulfan & derivatives 

 Endosulfan I 8081 0.01 μg/L 

 Endosulfan II 8081 0.01μg/L 

 Endrin & derivatives 

 Endrin 8081 0.01μg/L 

 Endrin aldehyde 8081 0.01μg/L 

 Endrin ketone 8081 0.01μg/L 

 Heptachlor & derivatives 

 Heptachlor 8081 0.01μg/L 

 Heptachlor epoxide 8081 0.01μg/L 

 Hexachlorocyclohexane (BHC) 

 α-BHC 8081 0.01μg/L 

 β-BHC 8081 0.01μg/L 

 δ-BHC 8081 0.01μg/L 

 γ-BHC (Lindane) 8081 0.01μg/L 

 Methoxychlor 8081 0.01μg/L 

 Mirex© 8081 0.01μg/L 

 Toxaphene 8081 0.2 μg/L 

POLYNUCLEAR AROMATIC HYDROCARBONS 

 Acenaphthene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 μg/L 

 Acenaphthylene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 μg/L 

 Anthracene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 μg/L 

 Benzo(a)anthracene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 μg/L 

 Benzo(b)fluoranthene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 μg/L 

 Benzo(k)fluoranthene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 μg/L 

 Benzo(a)pyrene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 μg/L 

 Benzo(g,h,i)perylene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 μg/L 

 Chrysene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 μg/L 

 Dibenzo(a,h)anthracene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 μg/L 

 Fluorene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 μg/L 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 14.0, Element B5: Quality Control Requirements 

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Table 13-1. Analytes, Methods, and Target Reporting Limits: Water Chemistry

Test Parameter Test Method Reporting Limit 

 Fluoranthene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 μg/L 

 Indeno(1,2,3-cd)pyrene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 μg/L 

 1-Methylnaphthalene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 μg/L 

 2-Methylnaphthalene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 μg/L 

 Naphthalene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 μg/L 

 Phenanthrene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 μg/L 

 Pyrene 8270SIM/8310 0.005 μg/L 

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

Test Parameter Test Method 

Reporting Limit 

(Wet Weight) 

METALS/OTHERS 

 Antimony1 6010b/200.8 0.5 mg/kg 

 Arsenic 6010b/200.8 0.2 mg/kg 

 Beryllium1 6010b/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 

 Selenium1 6010b/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 μg/kg 

 Acenaphthylene 8310/8270 SIM 20 μg/kg 

 Anthracene 8310/8270 SIM 20 μg/kg 

 Benzo(a)anthracene 8310/8270 SIM 20 μg/kg 

 Benzo(b)fluoranthene 8310/8270 SIM 20 μg/kg 

 Benzo(k)fluoranthene 8310/8270 SIM 20 μg/kg 

 Benzo(a)pyrene 8310/8270 SIM 20 μg/kg 

 Benzo(g,h,i)perylene 8310/8270 SIM 20 μg/kg 

 Chrysene 8310/8270 SIM 20 μg/kg 

 Dibenzo(a,h)anthracene 8310/8270 SIM 20 μg/kg 

 Fluorene 8310/8270 SIM 20 μg/kg 

 Fluoranthene 8310/8270 SIM 20 μg/kg 

 Indeno(1,2,3-cd)pyrene 8310/8270 SIM 20 μg/kg 

 1-Methylnaphthalene 8310/8270 SIM 20 μg/kg 

 2-Methylnaphthalene 8310/8270 SIM 20 μg/kg 

 Naphthalene 8310/8270 SIM 20 μg/kg 

 Phenanthrene 8310/8270 SIM 20 μg/kg 

 Pyrene 8310/8270 SIM 20 μg/kg 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 14.0, Element B5: Quality Control Requirements 

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

Test Parameter Test Method 

Reporting Limit 

(Wet Weight) 

PESTICIDES

 Aldrin 8081 1.7 μg/kg 

 Chlordane & derivatives 

 Technical Chlordane 8081 4.1 μg/kg 

 α (cis)–Chlordane 8081 1.7 μg/kg 

 γ (trans)–Chlordane 8081 1.7 μg/kg 

 Oxychlordane 8081 1.7 μg/kg 

 Cis-Nonachlor 8081 1.7 μg/kg 

 Trans-Nonachlor 8081 1.7 μg/kg 

 DDT & derivatives 

 o,p’ (2,4’)-DDD1 8081 1.7 μg/kg 

 p,p’ (4,4’)-DDD 8081 1.7 μg/kg 

 o,p’ (2,4’)-DDE1 8081 1.7 μg/kg 

 p,p’ (4,4’)-DDE 8081 1.7 μg/kg 

 o,p’ (2,4’)-DDT1 8081 1.7 μg/kg 

 p,p’ (4,4’)-DDT 8081 1.7 μg/kg 

 Dieldrin 8081 1.7 μg/kg 

 Endosulfan & derivatives 

 Endosulfan I 8081 1.7μg/kg 

 Endosulfan II 8081 1.7μg/kg 

 Endrin & derivatives 

 Endrin 8081 1.7 μg/kg 

 Endrin aldehyde 8081 1.7 μg/kg 

 Endrin ketone 8081 1.7 μg/kg 

 Heptachlor and derivatives 

 Heptachlor 8081 1.7 μg/kg 

 Heptachlor epoxide 8081 1.7 μg/kg 

 Hexachlorocyclohexane (BHC) 

 α-BHC 8081 1.7μg/kg 

 β-BHC 8081 1.7 μg/kg 

 δ-BHC 8081 1.7 μg/kg 

 γ-BHC (Lindane) 8081 1.7 μg/kg 

 Methoxychlor 8081 1.7 μg/kg 

 Mirex© 8081 1.7 μg/kg 

 Toxaphene 8081 167 μg/kg 

 Total Chlorinated Pesticides 8081 10 μg/kg 

SEMI-VOLATILES 

Pentachlorophenol2 8151 Modified or 

8270C SIM 100 μg/kg 

ORGANOTINS 

Monobutyltin SERIM (USEPA and 

USACE 2008)3

10 μg/kg 

Dibutyltin SERIM (USEPA and 

USACE 2008)3

10 μg/kg 

Tributyltin SERIM (USEPA and 10 μg/kg 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 14.0, Element B5: Quality Control Requirements 

61 

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

Test Parameter Test Method 

Reporting Limit 

(Wet Weight) 

USACE 2008)3

PCB CONGENERS

 PCB-8 8082 1 μg/kg 

 PCB-18 8082 1 μg/kg 

 PCB-28 8082 1 μg/kg 

 PCB-44 8082 1 μg/kg 

 PCB-49 8082 1 μg/kg 

 PCB-52 8082 1 μg/kg 

 PCB-66 8082 1 μg/kg 

 PCB-77 8082 1 μg/kg 

 PCB-87 8082 1 μg/kg 

 PCB-101 8082 1 μg/kg 

 PCB-105 8082 1 μg/kg 

 PCB-118 8082 1 μg/kg 

 PCB-126 8082 1 μg/kg 

 PCB-128 8082 1 μg/kg 

 PCB-138 8082 1 μg/kg 

 PCB-153 8082 1 μg/kg 

 PCB-156 8082 1 μg/kg 

 PCB-169 8082 1 μg/kg 

 PCB-170 8082 1 μg/kg 

 PCB-180 8082 1 μg/kg 

 PCB-183 8082 1 μg/kg 

 PCB-184 8082 1 μg/kg 

 PCB-187 8082 1 μg/kg 

 PCB-195 8082 1 μg/kg 

 PCB-206 8082 1 μg/kg 

 PCB-209 8082 1 μg/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). 

3

The SERIM lists the method as ‘Krone et al., 1989’ but lacks the citation in the References section. This 

method refers to the Grignard reaction, gas chromatograph and flame photometric detector methods. 

13.3.2 Taxonomic Analysis of Benthic Infauna

Biological characterization of benthic infauna 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 practical identification level. The contractor will also provide 

analysis and interpretation of the results for comparison between candidate sites using 

approaches designed to identify any differences in community structure between stations and 

sites. 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 14.0, Element B5: Quality Control Requirements 

62 

The contractor shall calculate the following numerical indices for each station and site: 

• Infaunal abundance (total number of individuals per station) 

• Infaunal density (total number of individuals per square meter) 

• Taxonomic richness (total number of taxa represented per station) 

• Taxonomic diversity (distribution of individuals over species) 

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 a list of macroinvertebrate 

taxa for the surveys. 

13.3.3 Taxonomic Analysis of Benthic Epifauna

Characterization of trawl-caught invertebrates and fishes will be performed by an ANAMAR 

biologist. Invertebrates and fishes will be enumerated and determined to the lowest practical 

taxonomic level (usually to species level, unless badly damaged during collection). Time 

permitting, select invertebrates will be measured. 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. The first 10 individuals of each fish species from each 

trawl will be measured to the nearest millimeter. Teleosts will be measured in standard 

length, while elasmobranch metrics will be taken using the most widely used and accepted 

methods (i.e., stretch total 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. 

For tissue chemistry samples, stainless steel fillet knives and forceps will be used to extract 

muscle tissues from epifauna. Equipment contacting tissue samples will be first cleaned and 

decontaminated as described in Florida Department of Environmental Protection 

Cleaning/Decontamination procedures (FC 1000). Tissue sample methods and materials will 

follow the guidance of Pequegnat et al. (1990), but will differ in terms of the mass needed for 

analysis and in the use of Teflon® material in partial replacement of aluminum foil. Efforts will 

be made to extract as much muscle tissue as possible from each sampled individual in an effort 

to allow for laboratory splitting of samples and/or archiving of extra tissues for later use. Upon 

extraction of tissues, each sample will be wrapped in a portion of pre-cleaned Teflon® bag and 

weighed using a 100-gram Micro Line hanging scale having an accuracy of within 0.3% of 

maximum weight. The Teflon®-wrapped sample will then be wrapped in clean aluminum foil. 

The wrapped sample will then be double-bagged in labeled Ziploc® bags and stored frozen 

within a freezer onboard the ship. The temperature within the freezer will be monitored using a 

thermometer and recorded on a temperature log. Upon conclusion of the offshore survey, the 

tissue samples will be kept frozen for later delivery to the CAS laboratory. Prior agreement by 

the USACE project officer must be obtained before project methods are allowed to diverge from 

that of the procedural 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 19-liter plastic bucket 

containing 10% buffered formalin solution, or undiluted NOTOXhisto for fixation. Large fishes 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 14.0, Element B5: Quality Control Requirements 

63 

too big for a bucket will be frozen in large bags or kept on ice in a cooler. A label containing 

pertinent information shall be placed inside the bucket or bag and another label will be affixed 

to the outside of the bucket. Representative invertebrates collected in the trawl survey will be 

relaxed using magnesium chloride or clove oil supplied by the Florida Museum of Natural History 

Ichthyology Collection and later 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 

• Numbers of individuals per major group (e.g., gastropods, shrimps, crabs, fishes) 

• Numbers of most abundance taxa per station, and per site 

• Numbers of federally-managed taxa per station and per site 

• Community composition 

• Notes on non-native introduced species, if found 

• Taxonomic diversity and richness of benthic epifauna 

• Results and discussion of tissue analyses 

13.3.4 Taxonomic Analysis of Clam Dredge Samples

Characterization of clam-dredged organisms will be will be performed by an ANAMAR biologist 

with the assistance of staff of the Florida Museum of Natural History. Bivalves will be 

weighed (collective wet weight), enumerated, and determined to the lowest practical 

taxonomic level (usually to species level, if possible without using genetic analysis 

techniques). If logistically feasible, a sub-sample of each bivalve species (such as 10 

individuals/species) could be measured (valve length) and these measurements recorded in 

the field log. 

Non-bivalve organisms are not of primary interest during clam dredge sampling and the 

recording of these data is optional. It would be useful to keep any macrophyte specimens 

(e.g., rhizomes) collected for later identification, as these may represent nonindigenous 

species (e.g., Caulerpa brachypus, C. prolifera, C. taxifolia) and such data is of pertinence to 

the site designation survey and may also be useful in verifying certain sidescan signatures. 

It is possible that invertebrates captured during the clam dredge sampling may be useful for 

tissue sampling. If this is determined to be the case, tissue samples will be collected as in 

epifaunal sampling (see Section 13.3.3 above). 

Representative bivalves (and any optional non-bivalve organisms) will be relaxed (if 

appropriate) using magnesium chloride or clove oil supplied by the Florida Museum of Natural 

History Ichthyology Collection and later placed in 50–70% ethanol for long-term storage. All 

field data will be recorded on field logs. After Representative invertebrate and fish specimens 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 14.0, Element B5: Quality Control Requirements 

64 

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 clam 

dredge samples: 

• Estimation of area sampled per dredge tow, and all tows combined 

• GIS figure showing dredge-sampling locations and directions of travel 

• Wet weight biomass per tow sample 

• Numbers of individuals of each bivalve taxa per station, and per site 

• Numbers of federally-managed bivalves (if any) per station and per site 

If non-bivalve data is collected, optional analyses may include: 

• Federally-managed non-bivalve organisms 

• Species not collected in epifauna or infaunal sampling 

• Community composition 

• Notes on nonindigenous introduced species, if found 

• Taxonomic diversity and richness of invertebrates 

14.0 ELEMENT B5 - QUALITY CONTROL REQUIREMENTS

All chemical analyses of water and tissues will be performed by CAS, 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 infaunal samples will be analyzed by Barry A. Vittor & Associates, Inc. and will 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 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 

re-sorted 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. 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 14.0, Element B5: Quality Control Requirements 

65 

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. Epifaunal and dredge sample field 

sorting may be assisted by trained individuals associated with the Florida Museum of Natural 

History at 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 will 

be completely documented and included in the final report to the client. 

USACE-Specific Data Quality Objectives 

All 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 contaminants of concern 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 USEPA. 

Table 14-1 shows a list of common quality control activities that will be performed on project 

samples. 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 14.0, Element B5: Quality Control Requirements 

66 

Table 14-1. Quality Control Activities Performed for Field Activities 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 Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 15.0, Element B6: Instrument/Equipment Testing, Inspection, and Maintenance Requirements 

67 

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 

USEPA aboard the Bold. Most calibration, operation, and maintenance will be the responsibility 

of Bold personnel, USEPA. Calibration of hanging scales, for use in measuring biomass, will be 

the responsibility of ANAMAR. 

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 Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 16.0, Element B7: Instrument Calibration and Frequency 

68 

16.0 ELEMENT B7 – INSTRUMENT CALIBRATION AND FREQUENCY

Field Instruments 

All calibration of field instruments will be performed by USEPA 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 QAM, 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 QAM and 

SOPs. 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 17.0, Element B8: Inspection/Acceptance Requirements for Supplies and Consumables 

69 

17.0 ELEMENT B8 – INSPECTION/ACCEPTANCE REQUIREMENTS FOR SUPPLIES 

AND CONSUMABLES

Pre-cleaned glass bottles and Nalgene® or equivalent bottles will be used for the storage of 

water chemistry samples. 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, 7.3 meter wide otter trawl, rocking chair dredge, CTD-profiler (sensors: 

conductivity, temperature, depth, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, PAR), with rosette of four 10-L 

Niskin bottles, sorting trays, temperature controlled freezers, and refrigerator. Expendable 

Supplies from the OSV Bold are expected to include writeable compact disks, cable ties, ice, 

paper towels, and de-ionized water. 

The following equipment and supplies are expected to be provided by USEPA, Region 4. Data 

logging laptop, navigation laptop, DGPS, DGPS antennae with mounting pole, removable hard 

drive for data storage, sieve buckets, and cloth infaunal sample bags. 

The 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 Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 18.0, Element B9: Data Acquisition Requirements (Non-Direct Measurements) 

70 

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 USEPA upon request. 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 20.0, Element C1: Assessments and Response Actions 

71 

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

Reduction of chemical and physical data in the final report will be done as discussed in the 

Green Book and the SERIM. See Sections 13.3.2 through 13.3.4 for data analysis and 

interpretation for infaunal, epifaunal, and clam dredge sampling data. 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

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 USEPA representative prior to any deviation from the procedures 

documented in this SAP/QAPP. 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

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 USEPA. These documents will be available 

to ANAMAR’s management for technical review before delivery to USACE. 

Infauna Report

Table 21-1. Minimum Report Requirements 

1. Introduction including summary of project background and study objectives. 

2. Field methods including sample collection and handling and laboratory infaunal sample 

analysis. 

3. Presentation of sediment physical and chemical analyses, with a comparison between 

stations and sites. 

4. Presentation of water chemistry analyses, with a comparison between stations and 

sites. 

5. Presentation of in situ water parameters with a comparison between stations and sites. 

3. Analytical and statistical 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 infauna, epifauna, and dredge samples by taxonomic group. 

8. Comparisons of stations within and adjacent to candidate sites. 

9. Summary and discussion of federally managed taxa captured. 

10.Comparisons to previous surveys (if applicable). 

11. Brief discussion of quality assurance/quality control steps. 

12. Results discussion 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 21.0, Element C2: Reports to Management 

74 

13. 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. 

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 Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

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. USEPA and USACE will have the final authority to 

determine the acceptability of the project data. 
Sampling and Analysis Plan for Jacksonville ODMDS Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

Section 23.0, Element D2: Validation and Verifications Methods 

76 

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 Fall 2010 Site Designation Survey

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. 

Naval Facilities Engineering Command, Southeast. 2008. Draft EIS for the Proposed 

Homeporting of Additional Surface Ships at Naval Station Mayport, FL.

Patnaik, P. 1999. A Comprehensive Guide to the Hazardous Properties of Chemical Substances 

Second Edition. John Wiley & Sons, Inc., New York, NY. 

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. 

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 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. 

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 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. 

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 2002. Guidance for Quality Assurance Project Plans (G5) [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. 

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 2006. National Recommended Water Quality Criteria: 

2006. November. EPA-822-R-02-047. Accessed online at: 

www.epa.gov/waterscience/criteria/nrwgc-2006.pdf. 

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 2010a. Jacksonville, Florida Ocean Dredged Material 

Disposal Site (ODMDS) Survey, June 18–19, 2009. Final Report. April 15, 2010. USEPA 

Region 4, Science and Ecosystem Support Division, Athens, GA. 

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 2010b. Ocean Survey Vessel (OSV) Bold. Accessed 

online at: www.epa.gov/bold/brochure.html. 

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency 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. 

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency and U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. 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 

CTD-profiler & Water Chemistry Sampling Log 

Infaunal Sampling Log 

Clam Dredge Sampling Log 

Epifaunal (Trawl) Sampling Log 

Chain-of-Custody Form 

Daily Quality Control Report 

Temperature Log
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