Projects - ÑÇÐǹÙÍø, Inc./projects-blog/Mon, 01 Apr 2024 00:27:02 +0000en-USSite-Server [email protected]@ (http://www.squarespace.com)Sediment Sampling and Analysis in Northwest States MATOCScott MackeyMon, 01 Apr 2024 16:39:00 +0000/projects-blog/sediment-sampling-and-analysis-in-northwest-states-matoc5c8d76358155127099aa5e0c:5c950d2a085229d4d73e3e19:6609fa40bc879a2b5c5bb511Miscellaneous Environmental Services and Sediment Sampling and Analysis in Various Northwest States Multiple Award Task Order Contract

ÑÇÐǹÙÍø was one of three firms selected as a prime contractor under the USACE Seattle District Miscellaneous Environmental Services and Sediment Sampling Analysis MATOC. As a small business, ÑÇÐǹÙÍø prides itself on strong teaming relationships. Each task order required a team of consultants to cover the wide array of project needs. The ÑÇÐǹÙÍø Team had the opportunity to support the Seattle District on six task orders under this contract. These task orders ranged from an archaeological survey, sediment profile imaging survey, and multiple sediment characterization projects.

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Sediment Sampling and Analysis in Northwest States MATOC
Ecological Risk Assessment: Puget Sound Exhaust Gas Cleaning SystemScott MackeyFri, 01 Mar 2024 17:38:00 +0000/projects-blog/ecological-risk-assessment-puget-sound-exhaust-gas-cleaning-system5c8d76358155127099aa5e0c:5c950d2a085229d4d73e3e19:6609fdc55e5cd326f42b7751Washington State Department of Ecology (WDOE) expressed interest in understanding the potential effects of the discharge of the water from the Exhaust Gas Cleaning System (EGCS) associated with large vessels to marine water of the Puget Sound. The goal of this study was to provide empirical and modeled data to better understand these potential ecological risks. This study originated from a cooperative agreement between the Port of Seattle, WDOE, and Cruise Lines International Association (CLIA). The focus of the agreement was to develop a program to perform a risk assessment following U.S. laws, WDOE standards and procedures, and recent IMO recommendations to better understand the potential impacts of EGCS discharges to the Puget Sound.

A combination of analytical determinations (PAHs and metals) in pre- and post-EGCS waters, modeling of overboard discharge toxicity, pre-discharge evaluation of environmental toxicity, and post-discharge evaluation of environmental concentrations were employed. Two engine loads were evaluated, low load (� 50%, represents “in port operations�) and high load (�70% represents normal transit operations). A representative set of samples were collected from six ships operated under low and high engine loads (total of 12 sampling scenarios). Environmental samples were collected from three locations from the EGCS; seawater intake, post-EGCS waters, and overboard discharge for each scenario.

Whole effluent toxicity tests were conducted with the Inland Silverside (Menidia beryllina), mysid shrimp, (Americamysis bahia), and sand dollar (Dendraster excentricus), following Washington Department of Ecology and U.S. EPA methodologies. The Silverside, mysid shrimp, and sand dollar bioassay methods are used by WDOE for monitoring National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permitted discharges to the Puget Sound which are detailed in Whole Effluent Toxicity Testing Guidance and Test Review Criteria. The marine diatom bioassay with, Skeletonema costatum, was added to the test design based on the advice of the external Advisory Panel to decrease the uncertainty of the risk the washwaters would pose to the marine community. This test method followed the bioassay method detailed by the American Society for Testing and Material (ASTM, 2021).

The Target Lipid Model (TLM) was used to predict the toxicity of petroleum components (PAHs) in EGCS overboard discharged waters while evaluation of the toxicity of metal components was evaluated by comparing the chemistry results to the Predicted No Effects Concentrations (PNECs) established for each metal. The MAMPEC model (Marine Antifoulant Model to Predict Environmental Concentrations) was used to assess the fate and distribution of EGCS associated waters when discharged. MAMPEC has the ability to estimate hydrodynamic exchanges in six generalized “typical� environments (i.e., open sea, shipping lane, estuary, commercial harbor, yachting marina, open harbor); two scenarios were evaluated in this study. The Cornell Mixing Zone Model (CORMIX) was used to refine the estimates from the MAMPEC model for the in-port scenario. CORMIX model estimates were simulated under two discharge scenarios, discharge during slack tide and one-hour post slack tide.

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Ecological Risk Assessment: Puget Sound Exhaust Gas Cleaning System
Idaho Cobalt Mining Project Biological MonitoringScott MackeyThu, 01 Feb 2024 17:38:00 +0000/projects-blog/klepfer-mining-idaho-cobalt-project-biological-monitoring5c8d76358155127099aa5e0c:5c950d2a085229d4d73e3e19:6609ff56349cce3ac5baa5b6ÑÇÐǹÙÍø was contracted by an undisclosed client to perform a biological survey to comply with the requirements of NPDES permit which requires that a biological survey be conducted. This biological survey was to include fish tissue metals, benthic macroinvertebrate, and stream and riparian habitat measurements. Three locations were sampled for this project. Two locations were on Big Deer Creek which represented the stream where the NPDES discharge would occur. These locations were sampled for fish tissue, macroinvertebrate communities, and stream habitat. One station was upstream of the discharge and the other was downstream. Fish tissues were also collected at a third location on Upper Blackbird Creek which represented background tissue concentrations.

ÑÇÐǹÙÍø performed the habitat survey and collected all of the samples in the field. IDEQ’s stream habitat index 2 (SHI2) was used to compare the results from the habitat survey. ÑÇÐǹÙÍø processed all of the benthic macroinvertebrate samples and calculated indices following IDEQ stream macroinvertebrate index 2 (SMI2), Hilsenhoff’s biotic index (HBI), and metals tolerance index (MTI). Fish tissue samples were couriered to an analytical laboratory and processed for metals (aluminum, arsenic, cadmium, cobalt, lead, manganese, mercury, nickel, selenium, thallium, and zinc). Results from the macroinvertebrate and fish tissue analyses were used to compare upstream and downstream locations. ÑÇÐǹÙÍø drafted a report that summarized the methods and results of the biological survey.

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Idaho Cobalt Mining Project Biological Monitoring
Yakama Nation Food Web StudyScott MackeyThu, 28 Jan 2021 15:22:39 +0000/projects-blog/yakama-nation-food-web-study5c8d76358155127099aa5e0c:5c950d2a085229d4d73e3e19:6012cfb7d1a7cd676f56aba2

The Yakama Nation was funded by and the Salmon Recovery Board to design, implement and assess a stream habitat restoration project in the headwaters of White Salmon Creek in Washington State. Prior to restoration, the stream channel was incised 4-6 feet. Restoration was accomplished by raising the creek bed (adding fill), particularly in riffle areas, to promote overbank flows in springtime, hold more water, and extend seasonal flow to increase the period that young-of-year steelhead could rear and migrate out of the system. The Tribe investigated potential changes to the food web by sampling riparian invertebrates, benthic invertebrate community, and fish diet to determine if there were any changes attributable to the restoration project.

The Yakama Nation contracted with ÑÇÐǹÙÍø to provide taxonomic identifications and length-mass regressions by taxon on over 1,100 invertebrate samples from this project. Sample types included benthic macroinvertebrates, fish diet analysis, and riparian pan traps and sticky traps. ÑÇÐǹÙÍø sorted and identified invertebrates to the lowest practical taxonomic group, which was often family for riparian samples, and genus/species for aquatic samples. We measured total invertebrate lengths to the nearest 0.05 mm for every sample to allow for calculation of biomass using length-weight regression curves.

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Yakama Nation Food Web Study
TEPUSA Gulf of Mexico 2020Scott MackeyWed, 20 Jan 2021 03:17:53 +0000/projects-blog/tepusa-gulf-of-mexico-20205c8d76358155127099aa5e0c:5c950d2a085229d4d73e3e19:60079f1e981209057f7cccc8An environmental baseline survey (EBS) was conducted to characterize the existing offshore environment and determine existing biological conditions at specific Drilling Lease Blocks designated for potential energy exploration. These Blocks were in the Garden Banks area, roughly 190 miles south of Louisiana. Seafloor at these sites ranged from approximately 4,000 to 7,000 feet below sea level. The baseline survey will help support the development of an Environmental Impact Assessment (EIA) for activities in these areas.

ÑÇÐǹÙÍø processed samples for multiple components for this EBS program. We analyzed nearly 70 unique infaunal samples whereby we performed full sorts and identification of all organisms to the Lowest Practical Taxonomic Level (LPTL). We calculated taxa richness, total abundance, dominance, diversity, evenness, and biomass by major taxonomic groups.

ÑÇÐǹÙÍø also processed ichthyoplankton, zooplankton, and phytoplankton to the LPTL for this project. We analyzed the chlorophyll samples for a, b, and c pigments as well as pheophytin pigments.

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TEPUSA Gulf of Mexico 2020
Fish and Mussel Salvage near Bovill, IdahoScott MackeyFri, 08 Jan 2021 21:32:11 +0000/projects-blog/fish-and-mussel-salvage-near-bovill-idaho5c8d76358155127099aa5e0c:5c950d2a085229d4d73e3e19:5fdfabaea478394ebcbd8b6aRecently, stream flow in 120 lineal feet of Potlatch Creek near Bovill, Idaho was diverted to allow a bridge to be rebuilt. The after consultation with Idaho Fish and Game, required the contractor to perform a fish salvage effort in the area impacted by water diversion. This reach of Potlatch Creek is a small, wadeable stream and is inhabited by ESA listed steelhead and other native fishes and invertebrate species.

To reduce environmental impacts from the project, ÑÇÐǹÙÍø performed a fish and mussel salvage operation. Given less than a 24-hour notice, ÑÇÐǹÙÍø quickly mobilized and provided a fully equipped fisheries crew to assist the client. Using backpack electrofishing methods, we captured, identified, counted, and removed all fish in the project area and placed them, unharmed, in a downstream area. In addition, we relocated over 80 western pearlshell freshwater mussels. Mussels can live for 80 years or more, are an important part of the stream ecosystem, and have become increasingly rare. We provided a summary report of our findings within two weeks of project initiation and final report was submitted by the client to ITD, which reviewed and accepted the results.

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Fish and Mussel Salvage near Bovill, Idaho
NEON Benthic Macroinvertebrate, Algae and Zooplankton Taxonomic IdentificationScott MackeyFri, 08 Jan 2021 21:32:04 +0000/projects-blog/neon-benthic-macroinvertebrate-algae-and-zooplankton-taxonomic-identification5c8d76358155127099aa5e0c:5c950d2a085229d4d73e3e19:5fdfac8ee64f570315449a3cThe National Ecological Observatory Network (NEON) project is funded by the National Science Foundation (NSF) and is managed by . The mission of the NEON project is to design, implement and operate continental scale research infrastructure to open new horizons in ecological science and education, and to enable ecological analyses and forecasts for the benefit of society. There are 81 field sites across 20 ecoclimactic domains.

https://www.neonscience.org/about-neon-field-sites

Since 2014, ÑÇÐǹÙÍø has provided benthic macroinvertebrate and zooplankton taxonomic identification services for the NEON project. In 2019 we began providing algae taxonomy services. Annual sample numbers have increased each year as the project was being implemented. ÑÇÐǹÙÍø worked in close coordination with members of the NEON team to develop appropriate laboratory and data delivery procedures designed to meet the objectives of the project. Once standard operating procedures were approved, they were implemented for the project. Annual audits were conducted for each taxonomic analysis (benthic invertebrate, zooplankton, periphyton, phytoplankton).

As of September 30, 2020 ÑÇÐǹÙÍø has processed 2,296 benthic macroinvertebrate samples, 273 zooplankton samples and 239 algae samples for the NEON project.

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NEON Benthic Macroinvertebrate, Algae and Zooplankton Taxonomic Identification
IDEQ Phytoplankton Community AssessmentScott MackeyFri, 08 Jan 2021 21:31:57 +0000/projects-blog/ideq-phytoplankton-community-assessment5c8d76358155127099aa5e0c:5c950d2a085229d4d73e3e19:5fdfae35ef8e407a9ead921cCoeur d’Alene Lake is fed by two primary river systems, the Coeur d’Alene River which enters the lake in the east, and the Saint Joe River which enters the lake in the south. The outflow of the lake is the Spokane river in the north which ultimately feeds into the Columbia River. The Coeur d’Alene River flows out of the Silver Valley which has a long history of mineral mining while the Saint Joe River mainly flows through wilderness or agricultural use areas. Idaho Department of Environmental Quality (IDEQ) has been monitoring water quality in Coeur d’Alene Lake for many years. IDEQ, in collaboration with the Coeur d’Alene Tribe, developed the Lake Management Plan (LMP) in 2009 to address concerns regarding increasing nutrients in the lake. This LMP included sampling the water column for phytoplankton communities and other environmental factors (e.g. dissolved metals, nutrients, chlorophyll, etc.). IDEQ was interested in exploring correlations between the measured environmental factors and changes to the phytoplankton communities.

ÑÇÐǹÙÍø taxonomists harmonized the entire dataset which included updating any name changes and ensuring that each taxon was identified to a similar level across the dataset. Following the taxonomic harmonization step, 10 yearsâ€� worth of the data from two of the long-term monitoring stations were investigated for both spatial and temporal trends. The investigation included defining the phytoplankton communities during specific season using multivariate techniques and then overlaying results from environmental factors (nutrients, metals, etc.) to investigate correlations between changes to these phytoplankton communities. All analyses were reported to the agency and a presentation of the results was given to the management group.

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IDEQ Phytoplankton Community Assessment
Ichthyoplankton Entrainment MonitoringScott MackeyFri, 08 Jan 2021 21:31:48 +0000/projects-blog/ichthyoplankton-entrainment-monitoring5c8d76358155127099aa5e0c:5c950d2a085229d4d73e3e19:5fedd78f89898a72c71cb2a6Since 2010 ÑÇÐǹÙÍø has analyzed over 3,000 large river samples as part of an impingement and entrainment study for a desalinization plant in Massachusetts. As part of a Clean Water Act 316(b) study, in-river ichthyoplankton samples were collected by the client to characterize baseline fish community populations in the river throughout the year. Entrainment samples were collected by filtering water in the plant behind the intake screen. Water was filtered through a 250-micron mesh sieve, samples were preserved in formalin and were shipped to our taxonomy laboratory for sorting and identification. ÑÇÐǹÙÍø lab technicians fully sorted each sample, removing all larval fish, fish parts, and eggs. The QC process ensured at least 90% of the organisms were removed from every sample. The organisms were then identified by an ichthyoplankton taxonomist to lowest practical taxonomic level. The taxonomic QC component included a 10 percent re-identification of the specimens by an independent, third-party taxonomist. The two taxonomists discussed results via phone, sharing electronic images and specimens, and re-examining specimens if necessary. Using this QC process, 95% taxonomic similarity and enumeration has been maintained on the annual project.

ÑÇÐǹÙÍø has completed several dozen 316(b) ichthyoplankton studies since 2002. Projects have been from lakes, rivers, and estuaries around the contiguous states and Alaska, largely focusing on power plants, manufacturing plants, and desalinization plants. To date we have processed over 23,000 ichthyoplankton samples.

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Ichthyoplankton Entrainment Monitoring
NEON Chlorophyll AnalysisScott MackeyFri, 08 Jan 2021 21:31:41 +0000/projects-blog/neon-chlorophyll-analysis5c8d76358155127099aa5e0c:5c950d2a085229d4d73e3e19:5fdfafc6ef735726d27756ebThe project is funded by the and is managed by . The mission of the NEON project is to design, implement and operate continental scale research infrastructure to open new horizons in ecological science and education, and to enable ecological analyses and forecasts for the benefit of society. https://www.neonscience.org/

ÑÇÐǹÙÍø has been conducting chlorophyll-a, pheophytin, and carotenoid analyses of terrestrial foliage and aquatic algae samples for NEON since 2017. To date we have analyzed 960 algae samples for chlorophyll-a and pheophytin and 748 foliage samples for chlorophyll and carotenoid pigments. Algae samples were processed following a modified version of EPA 445.0 and foliage samples followed a modified version of EPA 446.0. Detection limit was 0.5ug/l and the hold time was 14 days from date of collection. We received algae samples from around the country and hold times were met. Laboratory audits and reports were conducted annually, and all were approved by the client.

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NEON Chlorophyll Analysis
Kitty Hawk WindScott MackeyFri, 08 Jan 2021 21:28:45 +0000/projects-blog/kitty-hawk-wind5c8d76358155127099aa5e0c:5c950d2a085229d4d73e3e19:5fdfa9b142c0045a3315f009 is a proposed wind farm off the coast of North Carolina, United States. The proposed site is 27 miles from the Outer Banks and is projected to produce 2,500 MW of electricity, which could power approximately 700,000 homes with renewable energy. In 2017, BOEM awarded Avangrid Renewables with a 122,405-acre lease which requires a Site Assessment Plan (SAP). Project link Kitty Hawk Offshore.

RPS Group contracted ÑÇÐǹÙÍø to conduct taxonomic identification on over 200 benthic infauna samples as required by the SAP. All samples were collected using a 0.1 m2 grab and processed with a 0.5mm sieve. We provided a complete sorting and identification to lowest practical taxonomic level (LPTL).

 
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Kitty Hawk Wind
Seattle City Light Mill Pond Dam RemovalScott MackeyFri, 08 Jan 2021 21:28:27 +0000/projects-blog/seattle-city-light-mill-pond-dam-removal5c8d76358155127099aa5e0c:5c950d2a085229d4d73e3e19:5fdfa903e64f57031543fc0aIn 2013 ÑÇÐǹÙÍø, Inc. was contracted by Seattle City Light (SCL) to design and implement a benthic macroinvertebrate monitoring program for the Boundary Hydroelectric Project as part of the license implementation phase. ÑÇÐǹÙÍø worked with the Boundary project biologists to select sites throughout tributaries to the Pend O’Reille River. Macroinvertebrate communities are being measured to monitor overall water/habitat quality in the project area, as well as from a fish food availability perspective. During the site selection process we saw an opportunity to evaluate macroinvertebrate community response to removal of Mill Pond Dam on Sullivan Creek, for which we selected a Before-After/Control-Impact (BACI) sampling design.

Mill Pond Dam was constructed in 1909 by the Inland Portand Cement Company for hydroelectric purposes. The dam was located on Sullivan Creek, was 134 feet long by 55 feet tall, and was removed in summer 2018. The purpose of the project was to remove the Mill Pond Dam and restore the natural riverine conditions along Sullivan Creek. Restoring these riverine conditions will benefit the natural habitat by restoring the downstream transport of coarse sediment and large woody debris, riparian and floodplain environments, and benefits to water quality and reduce water temperatures during the summer warm weather.

During the first year of the project, ÑÇÐǹÙÍø conducted the field sampling, laboratory taxonomic analysis of benthic samples, data analysis and a comprehensive report on benthic macroinvertebrate community condition. During the second year, we trained SCL personnel with the field collection of biological samples, and since then SCL staff or affiliates have conducted the field sampling. ÑÇÐǹÙÍø has processed benthic macroinvertebrate samples each year since. Laboratory analysis of benthic macroinvertebrate samples followed Pacific Northwest (PNW) level 2 taxonomic effort level, usually genus or species. Annual macroinvertebrate community data are being accumulated for a full analysis of dam removal impacts once the post-dam removal data collection period is complete.

Crews removing Mill Pond Dam

Boundary Hydroelectric Project from its Vista House

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Seattle City Light Mill Pond Dam Removal
Naval Facilities Engineering Command Southwest: Evaluation of Proposed Dredged MaterialsPort GambleGuest UserSun, 24 Nov 2019 18:06:44 +0000/projects-blog/us-department-of-the-navy-naval-facilities-engineering-command-southwest-naval-base-san-diego-point-loma-and-coronado-evaluation-of-proposed-dredged-materials5c8d76358155127099aa5e0c:5c950d2a085229d4d73e3e19:5ddac6559de5330a90ba19daMarine terminal maintenance and improvements involving the deepening and removal of accumulated sediment were evaluated from US Naval facilities in San Diego, California. The objective of this ongoing program is to characterize the potential dredged materials from navigational and berthing areas from three naval facilities to determine suitability for open ocean disposal (LA-5 Ocean Dredged Material Disposal Site). Sediment evaluations included solid-phase toxicity testing using amphipod and polychaetes species; water-column toxicity testing on fish, mysids, and bivalve embryos; and bioaccumulation potential exposures on bivalve and polychaete species. Projects conducted in support of this program included the shipping of up to 60 discrete sediment core samples over the course of a sampling event. Samples were received within 24 hours of shipping and sample temperature and holding times objectives were met without incident. Individual core samples were combined to create dredging unit composites with sufficient volume to conduct the full suite of biological and chemical evaluations (typically 25-30 gallons). All testing was conducted following the quality control objectives consistent with the National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program.The material under consideration for ocean disposal was evaluated using criteria outlined in the project specific Sampling and Analysis Plans and in accordance with the Ocean Testing Manual (OTM; USEPA/USACE 1991), and the Inland Testing Manual (ITM; USEPA/USACE 1998). In addition, ÑÇÐǹÙÍø staff provided statistical analyses and technical reporting of the toxicity data. Data from all toxicity tests were compared to the interpretation guidelines to determine compliance with the applicable sediment quality standards.

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Naval Facilities Engineering Command Southwest: Evaluation of Proposed Dredged Materials
Chukchi Sea Environmental Assessment and Drilling Discharge Monitoring: Benthic Community Assessment and ToxicologyPort GambleGuest UserSun, 24 Nov 2019 17:59:01 +0000/projects-blog/chukchi-sea-environmental-assessment-and-drilling-discharge-monitoring-benthic-community-assessment-and-toxicology5c8d76358155127099aa5e0c:5c950d2a085229d4d73e3e19:5ddac47bc040f62cf14a27f3Client:  Shell Exploration and Production

ÑÇÐǹÙÍø conducted a baseline benthic community assessment and post-drilling monitoring study in the Chukchi Sea Lease Area for Shell Exploration and Production. Primary objectives were to analyze benthic communities within the lease area before and after drilling to determine if a measurable impact on the benthos occurred that could be attributable to drilling activities, the level of such impact and its spatial effect on community structure, and the extent and timeline of recovery potential that can be expected at effected locations.

ÑÇÐǹÙÍø scientists were involved in every phase of the community assessment program, including field collection of samples, sample sorting, specimen taxonomy, statistical analysis, final reporting and presentation of results to the client. More than 350 benthic samples were collected for the baseline and post-drilling surveys. In addition to analyzing standard biodiversity measures (taxa richness, abundance, evenness, and diversity), multivariate cluster analyses were performed across samples and sampling events to compare spatial and temporal similarities between communities. A detailed photographic benthic community atlas was also created to catalogue collected species and provide information related to habitat, food preferences and position within the tropic food web. 

Additionally, ÑÇÐǹÙÍø conducted a study focused on the evaluation of shipboard discharges for compliance with national discharge guidance following the National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) for Oil and Gas Exploration Facilities on the Outer Continental Shelf (OCS) in the Chukchi Sea, Alaska for Shell Exploration and Production.

A series of rapid screening and chronic toxicity tests were conducted with selected discharges collected from remote locations with stringent 72-hour holding time requirements for sample testing. ÑÇÐǹÙÍø scientists helped develop the testing program by selection and implementation of the rapid screening test, and by conducting additional studies to examine sample holding time and renewal frequency of discharge samples prior to the start of compliance testing. In total, over 100 toxicity tests were conducted during the 3-month monitoring season and all regulatory deadlines for report submittal were met. In addition, samples eliciting a toxic response were further investigated using toxicity identification evaluation (TIE) procedures to identify the cause of any observed toxicity. The TIE process identified a particular suite of compounds were likely responsible for the observed toxicity.

ÑÇÐǹÙÍø personnel presented the results of these studies to the client and the regulatory agency responsible for permit compliance. The results of the testing program may help to inform future permit requirements for discharges in the Arctic.

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Chukchi Sea Environmental Assessment and Drilling Discharge Monitoring: Benthic Community Assessment and Toxicology
Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill, Environmental Data Collection and Laboratory ManagementMoscowGuest UserSun, 24 Nov 2019 17:56:56 +0000/projects-blog/deepwater-horizon-oil-spill-environmental-data-collection-and-laboratory-management5c8d76358155127099aa5e0c:5c950d2a085229d4d73e3e19:5ddac3ce85e3643e177a9372On April 20, 2010, an explosion occurred on the Deepwater Horizon oil rig in the Gulf of Mexico, leading to oil releasing from the ruptured well for 87 days. ÑÇÐǹÙÍø was immediately contracted to provide laboratory services for the purposes of obtaining environmental data. As the resultant natural resource damage assessment progressed in 2011, there was additional need for increased environmental data collection and as a result, ÑÇÐǹÙÍø became the primary laboratory provider and for data collection for assessing coastal wetlands vegetation and marsh edge and sandy shorelines infaunal assessments.

Since the start of the project, ÑÇÐǹÙÍø was retained as a key service provider and member of the project team because of its unique ability to:

·       Rapidly adapt to changing requirements.

·       Develop and execute innovative process for obtaining environmental data while ensuring reproducibility and maintaining the highest standards of data quality.

Due to the complexity and geographic size of the project, the large number of samples being collected, and short turnaround times for data reporting, ÑÇÐǹÙÍøâ€� role expanded to include sourcing of regional and diverse subject matter experts, subcontracting to and managing coordination between subject matter experts and multiple specialized laboratories. Coordination of personnel and laboratories working in different regions in of the country required detailed and adaptive project management, a high level of interaction, and a strong collaborative approach. ÑÇÐǹÙÍø met this challenge and the company’s involvement in the project resulted in a highly defensible biological and analytical sample data available to trustees, the responsible party, and the public.



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Deepwater Horizon Oil Spill, Environmental Data Collection and Laboratory Management
Marine Amphipod Toxicity to Cobalt Spiked into Water and Sediment MoscowGuest UserSun, 24 Nov 2019 17:52:03 +0000/projects-blog/marine-amphipod-toxicitynbsptonbspcobalt-spikednbspintonbspwaternbspandnbspsedimentnbsp5c8d76358155127099aa5e0c:5c950d2a085229d4d73e3e19:5ddac2e2a46d122f382d6419 Client:  Cobalt Development Institute  

Description of Work 

ÑÇÐǹÙÍø staff was hired by the Cobalt Development Institute (CDI) to conduct a laboratory study to determine the toxicity of cobalt to sediment dwelling marine amphipods. The laboratory analysis was undertaken because while there is more information available on the overall toxicity of cobalt to freshwater organisms, less is known about the relative toxicity of cobalt to marine organisms. The toxicity of cobalt to marine organisms was investigated by exposing two different behavioral types of marine amphipods to cobalt. These species of amphipods interact with the sediment differently and those behavioral differences may affect how they are exposed to cobalt. One group of amphipods are free burrowing (Rhepoxynius abronius) and the other (Ampelisca abdita) live in tubes. We hypothesized that the tube dwelling amphipods would be less susceptible to cobalt in the porewater and sediment while the free burrowing amphipods would be more susceptible. The toxicity of cobalt to marine organisms was evaluated over the course of two different testing programs conducted in 2013 using direct spiking methods and again in 2016 using indirect spiking methods (Besser et al. 2011). The study also compared the response of amphipods to freshly spiked sediment versus spiked sediment that is aged under anaerobic conditions prior to exposure of amphipods.  

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Marine Amphipod Toxicity to Cobalt Spiked into Water and Sediment 
Biological Monitoring for Fish Restoration Program: State and Central Valley Water ProjectsMoscowGuest UserSun, 24 Nov 2019 17:31:31 +0000/projects-blog/biological-monitoring-for-fish-restoration-program-tidal-wetland-monitoring-requirements-of-the-usfws-biological-opinion-on-the-operations-of-the-state-and-central-valley-water-projects5c8d76358155127099aa5e0c:5c950d2a085229d4d73e3e19:5ddabe41460bea394443e5caClient: California Department of Water Resources

Project Duration: 2008 - 2013 and 2017 â€� 2019

Role: Contract Laboratory

·       Phytoplankton Analysis (2008 â€� 2013 and 2017- Present), 150 â€� 250 samples per year

·       Zooplankton, Benthic, and Eifaunal Invertebrate Analysis (2018 â€� 2020), 200 samples per year

ÑÇÐǹÙÍø provides taxonomic identification, enumeration, and measurement of phytoplankton, zooplankton, benthic, and epifaunal invertebrate samples collected as part of California Department of Water Resources restoration programs. Restoration programs include: Delta Pumping Plant Fish Protection Agreement (also known as the “Four Pumps Agreementâ€�); Fish Restoration Program Agreement (FRPA); Yolo Bypass Habitat Restoration Program; and, Habitat Expansion Agreement.

The Fish Restoration Program is focused on restoring 8,000 acres of tidal habitat in the Delta and Suisun Marsh to benefit Delta Smelt and 800 acres of low salinity habitat to benefit Longfin Smelt. These actions will also provide benefits for Winter-run and Spring-run Chinook Salmon, Steelhead, Green Sturgeon, and other native species. 

Restoration projects include: Arnold Slough Tidal Habitat Restoration Project; Bradmoor Island Tidal Habitat Restoration Project; Prospect Island Tidal Habitat Restoration Project; Tule Red Tidal Habitat Restoration Project; Winter Island Tidal Habitat Restoration Project; Yolo Flyway Farms Tidal Habitat Restoration Project; and, Wings Landing Tidal Habitat Restoration Project.

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Biological Monitoring for Fish Restoration Program: State and Central Valley Water Projects
Fish and Aquatic Macroinvertebrate Surveys of the Chicago Area WaterwaysMissouriScott MackeySun, 24 Nov 2019 17:24:56 +0000/projects-blog/fish-and-aquatic-macroinvertrebrate-surveys-of-the-chicago-area-waterways5c8d76358155127099aa5e0c:5c950d2a085229d4d73e3e19:5c966b817817f7ed5cf81118JULY 2008 � JUNE 2009

  • Determine fish and invertebrate community composition

  • Fish, Aquatic Macroinvertebrate Sampling

  • Boat Electrofishing, Petite Ponar and Hester Dendy

  • Species Identification, Abundance, Trophic Classification,

  • Species Richness

ÑÇÐǹÙÍø was contracted by LimnoTech in 2008 to conduct biological inventories of fish and macroinvertebrates at 14 stations within the Chicago Area Waterway System (CAWS). The objective of this project was to collect and process fish and aquatic macroinvertebrate samples for the Metropolitan Water Reclamation District of Greater Chicago. The purpose of sampling was to determine fish and macroinvertebrate community composition and density to facilitate development of habitat, fish, and macroinvertebrate community indices for Chicago Area Rivers.

Fieldwork associated with this project was conducted in July 2008. Sites were sampled for fish using a DC-pulse boat mounted electrofisher. Aquatic macroinvertebrates were sampled using a Ponar. In addition to macroinvertebrate samples ÑÇÐǹÙÍø collected, Hester-Dendy samples retrieved by the client were also analyzed.

ÑÇÐǹÙÍø identified, measured, and weighed all fish collected in the field. Species not readily identifiable in the field were returned to the ÑÇÐǹÙÍø laboratory for identification. Community metrics such as species richness and relative abundance were calculated for each site.

Aquatic macroinvertebrate samples were processed in the ÑÇÐǹÙÍø laboratory. Taxa identifications were done to the lowest level possible, including Chironomidae. A total of 28 samples of both Hester Dendy and Ponar sampling methods were sorted, processed, and identified and community metrics calculated included: species richness (discrete taxon only), relative abundance, number and percent Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera, and Trichoptera taxa, number and percent Diptera taxa, and number of Chironimodae with head capsule deformities. ÑÇÐǹÙÍø prepared a technical document that included a summary of the results, raw data sheets, field observations, data summary tables, and methodologies used for the project.

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Fish and Aquatic Macroinvertebrate Surveys of the Chicago Area Waterways
Proposed I-69 Corridor Studies, IndianaMissouriScott MackeySun, 24 Nov 2019 17:24:49 +0000/projects-blog/proposed-i-69-corridor-studies-indiana5c8d76358155127099aa5e0c:5c950d2a085229d4d73e3e19:5c95200d7817f7cc373fa589June 2004 - August 2005

  • Fish, Unionid, and Crayfish Inventories

  • Data Analysis: IBI and Community Metrics

  • QHEI and HHEI Habitat Assessments

  • Large River and Small Stream Ecosystems

The Indiana Department of Transportation and the Federal Highway Administration proposed an Interstate - 69 extension from Indianapolis, Indiana to Interstate 64 near Evansville, Indiana. The extension was portioned into six sections and ÑÇÐǹÙÍø participated as ecological consultants on Sections 2 (Gibson and Pike Counties, Indiana) and 5 (Monroe and Morgan Counties, Indiana). As part of the environmental review for this project, ÑÇÐǹÙÍø surveyed several streams within the construction corridors of Sections 2 and 5 for fish, crayfish, and unionids (freshwater mussels). In addition to the biological aspect of the stream and river surveys, habitat evaluations were also conducted. Biologists participating on this project received additional training by the client in conjunction with Indiana Department of Environmental Management (IDEM) for habitat assessments. This training supplemented our staffsâ€� already vast experience conducting evaluations using the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s Rapid Bioassessment Protocol for Non-Wadeable Streams (EPA-RBP), the Department of Agriculturesâ€� Steam Visual Assessment Protocol (SVAP), IDEMsâ€� Qualitative and Headwater Habitat Evaluation Indexes (QHEI and HHEI).

ÑÇÐǹÙÍøâ€� primary responsibilities as team members for the proposed I-69 extension project were to characterize the habitat and aquatic communities in rivers and streams within the corridor. Field studies focused on fish unionid (freshwater mussel), and crayfish communities within the project corridor. We additionally provided mitigation options for potential impacts of construction activities to unionid and fish communities, and were the liaison between the client and state and federal resource agencies.

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Streams varied in size from headwater to large riverine systems. The fish communities were sampled using backpack, tote barge, and boat electrofishing, and followed state protocols. The Index of Biotic Integrity (IBI) for the eastern Corn Belt region of Indiana was used to assess the fish community within streams in the project corridor. Additionally, state listed species such as the eastern sand darter and blue sucker were targeted during surveys. Streams were surveyed for state and federally listed unionid species and the overall community composition. Habitat within each stream and river was also determined and followed the IDEM QHEI and HHEI protocol. Clients received technical documentation and reporting of our findings that included historical information of the study sites (past survey information), methodologies, mapping, and mitigation suggestions.

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Proposed I-69 Corridor Studies, Indiana
NPS Mid-Atlantic Network Inventory and Monitoring Program and the Shenandoah National Park Biological MonitoringMoscowGuest UserSun, 24 Nov 2019 17:16:38 +0000/projects-blog/nps-mid-atlantic-network-inventory-and-monitoring-program-and-the-shenandoah-national-park-biological-monitoring5c8d76358155127099aa5e0c:5c950d2a085229d4d73e3e19:5ddabab75fd0b302be1e2c37ÑÇÐǹÙÍø has been contracted to analyze over 135 samples per year for the National Park Service Mid-Atlantic Network Inventory and Monitoring Program and the Shenandoah National Park biological monitoring programs. In addition to Shenandoah National Park specific samples, ÑÇÐǹÙÍø provides macroinvertebrate taxonomy for samples collected from 10 National Parks distributed from southern Pennsylvania to southern Virginia.

The Shenandoah National Park has been monitoring streams since 1986 years and ÑÇÐǹÙÍø is the first commercial lab to receive a contract for analyzing the park’s benthic samples. ÑÇÐǹÙÍø has worked closely with biologists and managers to ensure sample processing matches what has been previously done to identify and manage differences between analysts.

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NPS Mid-Atlantic Network Inventory and Monitoring Program and the Shenandoah National Park Biological Monitoring