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Final Field Sampling Plan/

Quality Assurance Project Plan

Davis Timber Site Lamar County, Mississippi

Prepared By

Linda S. George U.S. EPA Region 4

Science and Ecosystems Support Division Athens, GA

and

Joe Owusu-Yaw Integrated Laboratory Systems, Inc.

Environmental Services Assistance Team Contractor 980 College Station Road

Athens, Georgia

July 21, 2004

10655910

SECTION 1 FIELD SAMPLING PLAN

1.0 Introduction According to the Process Document (USEPA, 1997), the Field Sampling Plan (FSP) and Quality Assurance

Project Plan (QAPP) comprise the Sampling and Analysis Plan (SAP). These two documents, in conjunction

with the Study Design and Data Quality Objectives (DQO) Process or Work Plan (WP) will serve to guide

the site investigations to be conducted at the Davis Timber Site. These three documents, together, comprise

Step 4 of the 8-step process for conducting ecological risk assessments (ERA). U.S. Environmental

Protection Agency (EPA) Region 4 Science and Ecosystems Support Division (SESD) personnel will lead

the site investigations to be performed at the Davis Timber site. They will be assisted by EPA Region 4

Environmental Services Assistance Team (ESAT) contractors. All ofthe field measurements and techniques,

sample collection, sample handling, and sample shipment procedures to be followed by field personnel during

sampling activities are presented in the following sections.

1.1 Project Objectives

The main objectives ofthe site investigations are to collect additional information from the Davis Timber site

to fill data gaps and answer ecological risk questions that were idendfied during the baseline ecological risk

assessment (BERA) problem formulation. The ultimate goal ofthe project is to produce a defensible Record

of Decision (ROD), from an ecological risk standpoint. This SAP serves as a tool to document the procedures

and methods that will be used by the field team members to collect biotic and abiotic samples from the site.

The samples collected will be used to further characterize the site and to answer questions or test hypotheses

conceming the assessment endpoints identified in Step 3.

1.2 Organization of the Document

This document is organized into four main sections. Sections 1 and 2 comprise the FSP and Section 3

represents the QAPP. The QAPP is divided into four main groups as described Ln QA/R-5 "EPA

Requirements for Quality Assurance Project Plans" (USEPA, 2001). Section 4 presents the references cited

in the preparation of this SAP.

1.3 Site Infomiation

The Davis Timber site is located in Lamar County, Mississippi. The facility is a former timber processing

facility that actively debarked and treated timber from 1972 through 1987 (EPA 2002a). Operations

perfonned at the site included removal of bark, treatment of wood with pentachlorophenol (PCP), and product

storage. A scragg mill was operated at the facility to salvage timber that was determined to be unsuitable for

poles or piling. A complete description of the location and history, and previous investigations performed

at the site is provided in the Screening-level Ecological Risk Assessment (Black & Veatch, 2003) and the

Remedial Investigadon (RI) Report (USEPA, 2002a).

1.4 Sampling Program, Rationale, and Locations

The results of problem formulation indicated that there is potential for adverse effects to the ecological

1

receptors from exposure to the chemicals of potential concem (COPCs) at the site. The problem formulation

process identified data gaps or additional data needs required to answer risk questions needed to complete

an ERA for the site. This SAP has been developed to provide the procedures that will be followed during the

collection of samples from the site. The number of samples and locations, and field quality control (QC)

procedures have been determined based on the site history reports and the previous investigations performed

at the site up to this point.

1.4.1 Site Reconnaissance

Prior to the initiation of sample collecdon activities, a site visit will be performed to assess the environmental

conditions and to determine if the FSP is appropriate and can be implemented. This step is important for

ensuring that the DQOs for the site invesdgation are practical and can be met. If site conditions indicate that

the DQOs cannot be achieved, the FSP may have to be revised. At a minimum, the following tasks will be

performed during the field verification of sampling design, which is Step 5 of the 8-step process for ERA:

1. Verify and identify the suitability of the soil, sediment, and surface water sampling locations.

2. Verify and identify access points to aquadc habitats and detemiine the suitability of the proposed

fish sampling locations.

3. Verify suitable reference locations for the collection of biotic and abiotic samples.

4. Verify and review all environmental conditions (i.e., evaluate contaminant migration pathways).

Depending on the existing field conditions one or more of the following activifies or modifications may be

perfonned:

1. The number of samples may be modified (increased or decreased);

2. The sampling locations may be changed;

3. A different reference location may be selected; or

4. Other alterations may be made in order to meet the study objectives.

Any changes to the FSP will be agreed upon and documented by the field project leader and ecological risk

assessment team in consultation with the risk manager prior to implementation.

1.4.2 Surface Soil/Sediment Sampling

Two objectives will be met with the additional collection and analyses of surface soil and sediment samples.

First, surface soil and sediment samples will be collected representing samples Irom the site based on a

contaminant concentration gradient, and these samples will be used to perform solid-phase toxicity and

bioaccumulation tests using laboratory-cultured organisms. Second, where there are data gaps, additional

samples will be collected and analyzed to provide information for use in site characterization. Finally, a

reference sample will be collected for both soil and sediment media. Full scan analyses will be conducted

on both of the reference samples.

Soil and sediment samples for toxicity/bioaccumulation testing and chemical analyses will be homogenized

in the field. The sample collection procedures to be used in the field are specified in the EPA Region 4

Environmental Invesdgations Standard Operating Procedures and Quality Assurance Manual (EISOPQAM)

(USEPA 2001) and Ecological Assessment Standard Operating Procedures and Quality Assurance Manual

(EASOPQAM) (USEPA 2002b). All ofthe samples will be packaged, and shipped offsite to the EPA Region

4 SESD laboratory or Contract Laboratory Program (CLP.) laboratory for chemical analyses. The toxicity

and bioaccuniulafion test samples will be shipped to the EPA Region 4 SESD laboratory for testing, and these

tissues from the bioaccumulation tests will be analyzed at ESD.

The sediment and surface soil samples that are collected for the toxicity tests will be analyzed for Target

Analyte List (TAL) metals, volatile organic compounds (VOC), semivolatile organic compounds (SVOCs),

pesticides/PCBs, dioxins/furans, grain size distribution, pH, and total organic carbon (TOC). The tissue from

the organisms used in the bioaccumulation tests will be analyzed for PCP and dioxins/furans. The analytical

data from these samples will be used to draw conclusions on both the toxicity and bioaccumulation tests.

The surface soil and sediment samples that will be collected from the tenestrial and aquatic habitats at the

site for use in site characterization will be analyzed for PCP and dioxins/furans to determine if the

contaminant concentrations in these habitats are elevated enough to cause adverse ecological effects to the

receptors (i.e., plants and wildlife). The habitats of concem include the surface soils of the open yard, the

small on-site pond to the south of the open yard, wetlands sunounding the open yard, and East and West

Mineral Creek. • -

Surface Soil Toxicity Test Samples

Surface.soil samples will be collected to perform toxicity and bioaccumulation tests in the laboratory. The

soil sampling locations are presented in Figure 4-1. Three soil samples from the site plus a reference sample

will be collected and used for the soil toxicity tests. The soil sampling locations for the toxicity tests were

selected based on a concentration gradient for PCP which are collocated with the dioxins/furans. The

locations selected provide PCP concentrations of approximately 100 mg/kg, 50 mg/kg, 25 mg/kg, and 12.5

mg/kg (all in dry weight) (Table 4-1). Since the second highest concentration was not found during the RI,

the highest PCP concentration will be diluted (with laboratory control or reference soil) to provide the desired

concentration. This concentration gradient was selected to bracket concentrations that are known to cause

adverse effects to ecological receptors. A soil sample for toxicity testing will be collected from the reference

used during the RI that had a target PCP concentration of less than the CLP CRQL.

In addition, a laboratory control or artificial soil will also be used in the toxicity tests. The laboratory control

soil has not been chemically characterized. However, previous studies with the artificial soil, which consists

of clay, sand, and peat moss, have determined that it is nontoxic.

The 14-day solid-phase soil toxicity tests with the earthworm, Eisenia foetida, will be performed using a

modification ofthe procedures described in Greene etal. (1989). The test procedures will be supplemented

with the performing laboratory's standard operafing procedures (SOPs). Adult earthworms, fully clitellate

(>60 days old), and each weighing a minimum 300 mg, will be used. Four replicates of each test or control

soil, each containing 10 E. foetida, will be tested. The worms in each replicate will be checked after seven

days, and the soils will be hydrated, if necessary. At the end of the exposure period, the worms will be

removed form the soils, enumerated, and weighed to determine weight loss (if any).

Soil Bioaccumulation Test Samples

The soil samples for the bioaccumulation tests have been selected based on a concentration gradient for

dioxins/furans. The desired dioxin/furan toxic equivalent (TEQ) concentrations, which are based on

mammalian toxic equivalency factors, will be 1,000 ng/kg, 500 ng/kg, 250 ng/kg, and 125 ng/kg (all in dry

weight). A reference soil and a laboratory control soil will also be used in the bioaccumuladon tests.

The soil bioaccumulation tests will be performed using a modification of the "'Eisenia foetida Toxicity Test

for Soils" described in Greene et al. (1989). Adult earthworms, fully clitellate (>60 days old), will be used

and the duration of the bioaccumuladon tests will be 28 days. The procedures for performing the

bioaccumulation tests are provided in EPA/600/R-99/064 entitled Methods for Measuring the Toxicity and

Bioaccumulation of Sediment-associated Contaminants with Freshwater Invertebrates (USEPA 2000a). In

order to obtain adequate Eisenia foetida tissue for chemical analyses (~ 50 grams wet weight), the

bioaccumulation tests will beniodified to use larger exposure vessels with more soil and organisms. Four

replicates will be set up for each test or control soil (containing approximately 1,000 grams of soil) and a

.minimum of 15 grams of Eisenia foetida (approximately 50 - 75 adult earthworms) will be added to the

sample. At the completion of the 28-day exposure, the earthworms will be collected from the soils,

enumerated, weighed, and pooled (i.e., like samples will be pooled). The worms will then be frozen without

depuration, in preparation for processing and shipment to the analytical laboratory.

Sediment Toxicity Test Samples

Sediment samples will be collected to perform toxicity and bioaccumulation tests in the laboratory. Four

sediment samples and one reference sample will be collected from the riverine habitat and used in the

sediment toxicity tests. The sediment sampling locations are presented in Figure 4-2, and are based on a

concentration gradient for PCP (See Table 4-2). The locations were selected to provide PCP concentrations

of <340 pg/kg (reference), 1,000 pg/kg, 2,000 pg/kg, 4,000 pg/kg, and 8,000 pg/kg (all m dry weight). The

target concentration for the reference location was based on the CLP contract required quantitation limit

(CRQL) (USEPA 2003a).

In addition, a laboratory control sediment will also be used in the toxicity tests. The laboratory control

sediment has not been chemically characterized. However, previous studies with the control sediment have

determined that it is nontoxic. The solid-phase sediment toxicity tests will be performed using the ''Hyalella

azteca 14-day Survival and Growth Test for Sediments" described in EPA Method 100.1 (USEPA 2000a).

The detailed procedures for performing the toxicity tests are provided in EPA/600/R-99/064 Qn\Ai\e&Methods

for Measuring the Toxicity and Bioaccumulation of Sediment-associated Contaminants with Freshwater

Invertebrates (USEPA 2000a). The test procedures will be supplemented with the performing laboratory's

standard operating procedures (SOPs). Eight replicates of each test sediment and laboratory control will be

set up, and approximately 100 grams of sediment and 175 mL of overlying water (i.e., well water) will be

added. At the end of the exposure period, the amphipods will be sieved from the sediment, enumerated and

oven-dried at 60 °C for 24 hours. The dried organisms will then be weighed in order to determine growth (dry

weight).

Sediment Bioaccumulation Test Samples

A review of the previous analytical results indicated that the dioxins/furans are collocated with PCP,

therefore, the same sediment samples will be used for both the toxicity and bioaccumulation tests. A total

of 4 site sediments from the riverine habitat and one reference sediment will be collected for the

bioaccumuladon tests. The reference sediment will be expected to have a dioxin/furan TEQ of less than 2.5

ng/kg. A laboratory control sediment will also be used in the bioaccumulation tests. See Figure 4-2 and

Table 4-2 for sample locations and dioxin/furan concentrations.

The sediment bioaccumulation tests will be performed using the "Lumbriculus variegatus Bioaccumulation

Test for Sediments" described in EPA Method 100.3 (USEPA 2000a). The duration of the bioaccumulation

tests will be 28 days. The procedures for performing the bioaccumuladon tests are provided in EPA/600/R-

99/064 entided Methods for Measuring the Toxicity and Bioaccumulation of Sediment-associated

Contaminants with Freshwater Invertebrates (USEPA 2000a). In order to obtain adequate L. variegatus

Ussue for chemical analyses (~ 50 grams wet weight), the bioaccumulation tests will be modified to use larger

exposure vessels with a proportionate amount of sediment and organisms. Four replicates will be set up for

each test or control sediment (containing a minimum of 1,000 grams of sediment, depending on the organic

carbon content) and approximately 4 Liters of overlying water (i.e., well water) will be added. A minimum

pf 15 grams of L variegatus (containing several thousand oligochaete worms) will be added to each replicate.

The test duration will be 28 days, during which the overlying water in each replicate test or control sample

will be renewed daily. At the completion of the 28-day exposure, the L. variegatus will be sieved from the

sediments, weighed, and pooled (i.e., like samples will be pooled). The oligochaetes will then be frozen

without depuration, in preparation for analysis.

1.4.3 Surface Water Sampling

Three surface water samples will be collected from the fish sampling locafions. These three surface water

samples will be grab samples from the aquatic areas where the fish samples will be collected. The surface

water samples will be analyzed for TAL inorganics, TCL organics, dioxins/furans, and pH. In addition, the

regular field measurements of temperature, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, hardness, conductivity, and pH will

be measured. The sampling procedures for surface water are specified Ln the EISOPQAM (USEPA 2001)

and EASOPQAM (USEPA 2002b).

SECTION 2 Field Sampling Activities and Procedures

The following sampling-related activities will be performed by the field crew:

1. site mobilization;

2. identification of sampling locations;

3. field QA/QC including equipment calibrafions and field measurements;

4. procurement of equipment, supplies, and containers;

5. surface soil/sediment sampling;

6. biota sampling and identification;

7. compledon and review of field logbook documentafion;

8. labeling, packaging, preserving, and shipping of environmental samples;

9. management of investigative derived wastes.

Where applii^able, the subsections in this secfion reference the following EPA Region 4 standard operating

procedures: EISOPQAM, (USEPA 2001), the EASOPQAM (USEPA 2002b), or the Analytical Services

Branch Laboratory Operafions Quality Control Manual (ASBLOQCM) (USEPA 2003b).

2.1 Site Mobilization

The field project leader will identify and provide all ofthe necessary personnel, equipment, and materials for

mobilizafion and demobilization to and from the site for the purpose ofthe sampling acfivities. A temporary

field office will be set up at the site prior to the site investigations. All equipment and supplies will be stored

on-site in the temporary office.

2.2 Control of Equipment, Supplies, and Containers

• All sample containers will be pre cleaned and traceable to the facility that performed the cleaning. Sampling

containers will not be cleaned or rinsed in the field. Sample containers and preservatives will follow EPA

requu-ements (USEPA 2001).

2.3 Sampling Activities

Sampling activities to be performed at the site include environmental sampling of surface soils, sediment,

surface water, and fish. The goal of the sampling activities is to yield quantitative data that accurately depict

the site conditions in a given time period. QA/QC measures specified in the sampling procedures minimize

and quantify the enor in the data. The following secfions describe or reference the samplmg techniques and

procedures to be performed during the site investigation.

2.3.1 Soil/Sediment Sampling

All soil/sedLment sampling will be performed in accordance with guidance provided in the EISOPQAM

(USEPA 2001) and EASOPQAM (USEPA 2002b) using stainless steel augers, shovels, and/or scoops. Soil

samples will be collected from a depth of 0-6 inches below the ground surface. The soil samples will be 5-

point composite samples. The sediment samples will be grab samples, and will be collected from a depth of

0-3 inches below the ground surface. Sufficient sample volume will be collected and split in the field for both

the bioassays and chemical analyses as needed. Sarnples will be homogenized in the field and the necessary

volume of sample will be placed in appropriate sample containers for shipment to the testing laboratory. For

the sediment samples that will be collected at the fish locations, several samples along the stretch of stream

will be composited into one sample. The sample volume requirements, containers, preservafion methods, and

holding times are described in the QAPP (Section 3 of this document), EISOPQAM (USEPA 2001) and

EASOPQAM (USEPA 2002b). See Table 4-3 for the number of samples, analysis methods, sample

containers, preservation methods, and holding times.

2.3.2 Surface Water Sampling

Surface water sampling .will be performed in accordance with the applicable procedures described in the

EISOPQAM (USEPA 2001) and EASOPQAM (USEPA 2002b). At each surface water sampling location,

an adequate volume of sampje will be collected after all in situ water quality measurements have been taken.

See Table 4-3 for the number of samples, analysis methods, sample containers, preservation methods, and

holding fimes.

2.3.3 Biota Sampling

Biota sampling will be performed in accordance with the applicable EPA procedures described in the

EISOPQAM (USEPA 2001) and EASOPQAM (USEPA 2002b). As stated earlier, a presampling site

reconnaissance will be performed to determine the general locations and types of species that may be

available for sampling. See Table 4-3 for the number of samples, analysis methods, sample containers,

preservation methods, and holding times.

Prior to the initiation of any fish collection activities, a scientific collecfion pemiit will be obtained from the

Mississippi Department ofEnvironmental Quality (MDEQ). Detailed instrucfions ofthe sample collection

procedures and sequence will be reviewed with the field manager onsite prior to initiation of sampling. The

samples will be collected and handled in a manner consistent with the guidelines provided in the EISOPQAM

(USEPA 2001) and EASOPQAM (USEPA 2002b).

1. Four site locations and one reference location have been selected for the collection of fish tissue

samples. These include 2 stations in West Mineral Creek, 2 stations in East Mineral Creek, and

one reference station. The exact fish sampling locations will be selected in the field based on

access to the locations, fish availability and the observed field conditions.

2. Fish samples will be collected using backpack electrofishing equipment, seine nets, or minnow

traps. At each sampling station, the level of fishing effort will be recorded along with sampling

reach coordinates.

3. The fish will be sorted by species and preserved on ice in clean plastic bags in the field until they

can be processed. At the command post, or other designated area, fish will be measured for total

length (mm) and weight (g). Fish will be separated into distinct samples ofthe same species and

then frozen. It is anticipated that a total of three different fish species will be caught at each

location and composited by species, for a total of fifteen fish samples.

4. Target Fish Samples - The sampling goal will be to collect whole body samples from each

sampling station. The target weight for analysis is 50 grams for each sample. Fish will be

between 4 and 14-cenfimeters (cm) in length and will most likely include minnows, darters,

sunfish, and juvenile bass or crappie.

5. All fish samples will be kept on wet ice and frozen within 48 hours of collection. Fish tissue

samples will be preserved and transported following guidelines established in USEPA Guidance

for Assessing Chemical Contaminant Data for Use in Fish Advisories, Third Edition (USEPA

2000b).

6. Fish samples will be shipped to the EPA Region 4 SESD laboratory for analysis. Prior to the

analysis, fish will be homogenized using dry ice and pre cleaned blenders. The tissues will

remain frozen throughout the homogenizafion process to avoid fluid loss.

2.4 Sample Identiflcation

The following sample identification codes or similar nomenclature will be used to identify the samples

collected from the Davis Tunber site.

Site code:

Sample media code:

Sample locafion:

DT

SS

SD

SW

RS ##

Davis Timber Site

Surface soil sample

Surface sediment sample

Surface water sample

Rinseate sample Numeric locafion

Additional details of the sample identification procedures are provided in the QAPP (Section 3).

2.5 Field Logbook Documentation

Field logbooks provide a means for recording all data collection activities performed at a site. The field

logbook is a Controlled Evidentiary Document and will be maintained accordingly. The field operations

manager will make logbooks available. Each logbook will be assigned a document control number prior to

use. Entries will be as descripfive and detailed as possible, so that a particular situafion could be

reconstmcted at a later date without reliance on the collector's memory.

All measurements made and a detailed description of each sample collected are recorded. All logbook entries

will be made with indelible ink and legibly written. The language will be factual and objecfive. No erasures

are pemiitted. If an inconect entry is made, the data will be crossed out with a single line, initialed, and

dated. Entries will be organized into tables if possible. The field operafions manager will review the

logbooks at the end of each working day to ensure that the logbooks are complete and conectly filled out.

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The following guidelines will be implemented for all logbooks:

• Each page will be signed, dated, and numbered;

• Blank pages will be marked as such;

• Each entry will be identified with the fime (a 24-hour clock);

• Logbook extensions (field sheets, purge records, etc.) will be recorded in the logbook;

• Logbooks will be retumed to the field operations manager upon completion, during periods of

absence, and at the end of the invesdgation;

• At the beginning of each entry, the following information is recorded: the date, start time,

weather conditions, field personnel present, level of personnel protection in use on site, and the

signature of the person making the entry;

• In addition to sample description information, the logbook should also contain full equipment

data including field equipment used, serial numbers, calibradon information, and pertinent

observations;

• Deviations from this SAP or other plans will be noted;

• Communications with coordmating officials will be recorded; and

• All logic behind field decisions will be supported in the logbook.

2.6 Packaging and Shipping of Environmental Samples

Samples will be packaged for shipment in accordance with the requirements of the U.S. Department of

Transportation (DOT). Samples will be shipped in insulated containers with either freezer forms or ice. If

ice is used, it will be double-bagged in leakproof plasfic bags. Samples will also be packed in plasfic bags.

Delivery of the samples to the analytical laboratory will be by overnight carrier and the containers will be

marked as environmental samples.

A custody seal will be affixed to the outside of each cooler. It will be placed over the cooler seam, and signed

and dated. Nylon-reinforced tape will be placed over the seal to reduce the potential for tampering or

accidental tearing.

A chain-of-custody form will be completed for all samples requiring laboratory analysis. The testing

laboratory will designate its own project number, and the field operations manager will maintam it. The

following information will be needed to complete the chain-of-custody record:

• The project name;

• Sample collector(s) signature;

• Station number (sample code) for each sample;

• Date and time of sample collection;

• Whether the sample was a grab or composite;

• A brief verbal description of the sample collection station;

• Total number of containers;

• Individual number of each type of container under the conesponding analysis;

• Sample tag numbers;

• The sample will be relinquished to the laboratory or shipper. If hand-delivered, the recipient will

sign the chain-of-custody record. Because shipping companies will not sign-off, the name ofthe

shipping company should be recorded under "received by";

• The air bill number will be entered under remarks, if applicable; and

• The serial number for each chain-of-custody form will be recorded in the field logbook.

If samples are sent to CLP laboratories, a sample idenfificafion number will be written in indelible ink on each

sample container. A Sample Traffic Report/Chain-of-Custody Form will then be completed for each cooler

of samples for each designated laboratory. The information that must be entered on the form is detailed in

the User's Guide to the Contract Laboratory Program, December 1988. The Traffic Report/Chain-of-

Custody Form will be secured to the inside of the shipping cooler prior to shipment. Shipping coolers will

be secured with fiber tape, and.custody seals will be placed across cooler openings. Shipping coolers will

be sufficiently secured to avoid the leaking of sample contents, ice or packing material. AdditionaUy, the

outside of the cooler will be cleaned prior to shipment so that no residual packing material, dut, water, etc.,

is present. A copy of the custody record will be retained in the project file. Each time the samples are

transfened to another person, signatures ofthe persons relinquishing and receiving them, as well as the time

and date of transfer will be completed in the appropriate spaces on the Traffic Report/Chain-of-Custody

Forms. This will complete sample transfer.

The following items will be checked by the sampling personnel prior to sample shipment:

• the conect case number is on the traffic report (TR);

• a temperature blank is included in each cooler;

• the collected volume is sufficient for requested analysis, especially matrix spike/ matrix spike

duplicates (MS/MSDs);

• tag and sample numbers conespond on the TR;

• a sample is designated for MS/MSD on the TR, and the sample designated for MS/MSD covers

all requested analyses;

• a retum air bill with address and valid billing number is included in the cooler; and

• the conect copies of the TR are being provided to the laboratory.

When ready to ship samples, sampling personnel will contact the designated Contract Laboratory Analytical

Services Support (CLASS) personnel, with the following informafion:

• case number;

• CLP laboratory name(s);

• number, matrix, and analysis of samples to be shipped;

• air bill numbers;

• oversight personnel name and phone number;

• date shipped;

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• next anticipated shipment;

• case status; and

• problems encountered, special comments, unanticipated issues.

Sampling personnel may contact Debbie Colquitt, EPA Region 4 SESD, at 706-355-8804 for further

information regarding laboratory assignments, sampling problems, shipment delays, etc.

It is the CLP laboratory's responsibility to maintain intemal logbooks and records that provide a custody

record throughout sample preparation and analysis. To track field samples through data handling,

photocopies of all traffic reports and chain-of-custody records will be maintained by the field personnel.

A separate sample label will be completed and secured to each biotic and abiofic sample. The following

guidelines will be used to complete each sample tag:

• Project code refers to the case number designated by the laboratory for each project. This code

may be obtained from the field operations manager.

• Station number refers to the sample code.

• Record the month, day, and year.

• Record the sample time.

• Designate the sample as grab or composite (X).

• Give a verbal descripfion of the sample locafion.

' • Indicate by (X) if preservatives are in the sample.

• Indicate by (X) the type of analyses to be performed on the sample.

• The sample number label from the inorganic or organic traffic report must be stapled to the back

of the tag.

2.7 Equipment Decontamination

Decontamination procedures will not be performed during the field investigation. All equipment will be

retumed to SESD for decontamination.

2.8 Site Mapping/GIS

Aerial photographs depicting the ecological habitats, existing stmctures, wetlands, drainage ditches, settling

ponds, etc. for the Davis Timber site exist. A base map for the site will be developed from the existing aerial

photography. Figures 4-1 and 4-2 indicate the global positioning system (GPS) locations where samples were

collected during the RI. These GPS coordinates, which are in conected datum, will be used to identify the

stations for this field investigation. All sampling locations will be referenced to the NAD 1927. The

procedures for recording the coordinates with the GPS system are provided in the EISOPQAM (USEPA

2001).

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SECTION 3 QUALITY ASSURANCE PROJECT PLAN

GROUP A: PROJECT MANAGEMENT

This QAPP. in conjuncfion with the FSP, supports all of the sampling and analysis activities that will be

performed at the Davis Timber site. The QAPP was prepared in accordance with EPA QA/G-5 "Guidance

for Preparing Quality Assurance Project Plans (USEPA 2002c) and EPA Region 4 requirements. This secfion

covers the basic area of project management, including the project organization, reference and purpose,

project description, quality objectives and criteria, special training, documentafion, and records. EPA Region

4 will provide the necessary technical staff to perform sampling and reporting aspects of the project. The

project organizafional chart is presented in Table 4-4.

Remedial Program Manager (RPM) ~

The remedial project manager (RPM) for the Davis Timber site is Amy Williams. She is legally responsible

for the overall management of the project. It is the responsibility of the RPM to ensure that EPA Region 4

Management, data users, and decision makers (these include potential responsible parties, natural resource

tmstees, local communities, state agencies, etc.) are informed of all field activities and the results ofthe site

investigation. The RPM will ensure access to private land for sampling.

Field Project Leader

The field project leader for the site is Linda George. Some of the responsibilities of the field project leader

include but are not limited to the following:

• overseeing the overall field investigation and sampling phases of the project;

• making all field decisions including monitoring and field quality control;

• scheduling and coordination of work and sample analyses acfivities;

• ensuring that all field activities are properly performed and documented;

• .ensuring that all field activities are properly documented in field logbooks; and

• communicating all site activities with the RPM.

Health and Safety Offlcer

The health and safety officer for the project is Bobby Lewis. He is responsible for ensuring that all field

personnel are up-to-date on their health and safety requirements. He also monitors the health and safety of

all field sampling and investigative personnel.

Quality Assurance Manager

The quality assurance manager, Marilyn Thornton, has the authority and responsibility for managing all QA

activities for this investigafion and within the region in accordance with Section 4.2.2 of the Quality

Management Plan (QMP) for EPA Region 4 (USEPA 2003c).

Field Team Members

Field team members are expected to be EPA personnel and ESAT contractoi^s. All field team members are

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responsible for the following activities:

• collecting and preserving biotic and abiotic samples as described in the FSP and QAPP;

• performing field QA/QC activifies as specified in the FSP, QAPP, and standard operating

procedures (SOPs);

• performing field equipment calibrafions as specified in the QAPP and SOPs;

• scheduling the shipment of investigative samples to the analytical laboratories;

• ensuring that all field measurements are properly performed and documented;

• documenting all field acfivities in field logbooks; and

• conununicating all site activifies with the field project leader.

Al Distribution List

The following personnel will receive copies of the FSP and QAPP.

• RPM, Amy Williams

• Field project leader, Linda George

• The QA manager, Marilyn Thornton

• SESD health and safety officer, Bobby Lewis

• ESAT contractor field team leader, Brian Hemdon

• ESAT lead ecological risk assessor, Joe Owusu-Yaw

A4 Problem Deflnition/Reference

The objecfives of this assignment are discussed in Section 1.1 of the SAP and will not be repeated in detail

in this section. Briefly, the previous activities performed at the Davis Timber site resulted in the

contamination of tenestrial and aquatic habitats at the site. A BERA problem formulation conducted for the

site, using existing data, idenfified several data gaps and risk quesfions. A recommendation was made for

the collection of additional site-specific information to answer risk questions and to fill those data gaps.

These documents (i.e., FSP and QAPP) are being prepared to aid in the collecfion of additional site

information to fill those data gaps and to answer the risk questions. The purpose of this QAPP is to provide

guidance to ensure that all sampling procedures and measurements are scientifically sound and of acceptable

quality for the intended usage.

A5 Project/Task Description

The objectives ofthis investigation are to collect site-specific information to fill in data gaps and answer risk

quesfions in order to complete an ecological risk assessment, and to provide the risk manager a basis to make

a remedial decision. The objectives will be achieved by collecting biotic (i.e., fish) and abiotic (i.e., soil,

sediment, and surface water) samples from the Davis Timber site and vicinity as described in the FSP, and

performing chemical analyses, toxicity and bioaccumulation tests, and other physical/chemical measurements

on the samples. The data obtained will be used as follows:

• to fiirther characterize the site;

• to identify which media and receptors are potentially affected;

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• to answer risk questions identified in the BERA probleni formulation via the Risk

Characterization (Step 7); and

• to assess the ecological risk and provide the results to the RPM.

Project Schedule

At the present fime, it is anticipated that all laboratory analyses will be conducted by EPA Region 4 SESD

or a CLP laboratory. This site investigafion will be conducted the last week of July (i.e., July 26 - 30,2004).

A6 Quality Objectives and Criteria

This section establishes an intemal means of quality control and review to ensure that environmental

measurements and data collected from the site invesdgations are of known quality and suitable for making

sound decisions. To aid in the interpretation of the data, two broad categories of data developed by the EPA

will be used: screening data and definitive data.

• Screening data with definifive confirmation: This category provides rapid, less precise methods of

analysis with less rigorous sample preparation. Analyte identification and quantitation, although

quantitation may be relafively imprecise. At least 10 percent of the screening data are confirmed

using analytical methods and QA/QC procedures and criteria associated with definifive data. Field

data collected using portable field instmments belong to this category. To be acceptable, screening

data must include chain-of-custody, inifial and confinuingcalibrafion, analyte identificafion, and

: analyte quantitation.

• Definitive data: Definitive data includes data generated using rigorous analytical methods. The data

;. are analyte specific with confirmation of the identity and concentration of analytes. These methods

in this category may produce tangible raw data (e.g., chromatograms, spectra, digital values) in the

form of hard-copy printouts or computer-generated electronic files.

The subsections below describe the DQOs and data measurement objectives for the site investigations.

A6.1 Data Quahty Objectives I.

The DQO process is a series of planning steps based on the scienfific method that are designed to ensure that

the type, quantity, and quality of environmental data used in decision-making are appropriate for the intended

purpose. The EPA has issued guidelines to help risk assessors develop site-specific DQOs (USEPA 2000c).

The DQO process is intended to:

• clarify the study objective;

• define the most appropriate type of data to collect;

• determine the most appropriate condifions from which to collect the data; and

• specify acceptable levels of decision enors that will be used as the basis for establishing the

quantity and quality of data needed to support the design.

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The goal of the DQO process is to "help assure that data of sufficient quality are obtained to support remedial

response decisions, reduce overall costs of data sarnpling and analysis activities, and accelerate project

planning and implementation."

The DQO process specifies project decisions, the data quality required to support those decisions, specific

data types needed, data collecfion requirements, and analyfical techniques necessary to generate the specified

data quality. The process also ensures that the resources required to generate the data are justified. The DQO

process consists of seven steps and the output from each step influences the choices that will be made later

in the process. These 7 steps are idenfified as follows:

• Step 1: State the problem;

• Step 2: Identify the decision;

• Step 3: Idenfify the inputs to the decision;

• Step 4: Define the study boundaries;

• Step 5: Develop a decision mle;

• Step 6: Specify tojerable limits on decision enors; and ,

• Step 7: Optimize the design.

During the first six steps ofthe process, the planning team develops decision performance criteria (DQOs)

that will be used to develop the data collection design. The final step ofthe process involves developing the

data collection design based on the DQOs. A brief discussion of these steps and their application to this

project is provided below.

Step 1: State the Problem

Environmental data is required to evaluate the impacts of the contamination at the Davis Timber site to the

ecological receptors. This field investigation will be conducted to supplement the existing data collected at

the site. The combined data will be used to assess the risk to ecological receptors and, if necessary, to

establish clean up goals for the chemicals of concem (COCs) at the site.

Step 2: Identify the Decision

All data generated from collection of environmental samples during this investigafion will be definitive level

data. The data will be used to answer the following questions:

• What is the nature and extent of contamination in the tenestrial and aquatic habitats at the Davis

Timber site?

• Are the contaminants m the soils and sediments at the Davis Timber site bioavailable?

• Are the contaminants accumulating in potential prey (e.g., fish and invertebrates)?

• Does the potential exist for food-web transfer of the site contaminants?

• Are the primary sources of contamination of the tenestrial and aquatic habitats still present?

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The results of the additional sampling (i.e., chemical analyses, site-specific toxicity tests, bioaccumulation

tests, etc.) will be used to answer the above quesfions. If the results are not sufficient to answer any of the

questions, possible explanations will be sought or additional sampling and analyses may be required.

Step 3: Identify the Inputs to the Decision

The decisions listed above are linked to the following activities to provide specific environmental physical

and chemical data.

1. Collect surface soil samples from the open yard areas of the site for soil toxicity tesfing at the

EPA Region 4 SESD laboratory;

2. Collect surface soil samples from the open yard areas of the site for bioaccumulation tesfing at

the EPA Region 4 SESD laboratory;

3. Collect surface soil samples from the open yard areas ofthe site for seed germination testing at

the EPA Region 4 SESD laboratory;

4. Collect surface sediment samples from the aquatic habitats for solid-phase toxicity testing at the

EPA Region 4 SESD laboratory;

5. Collect surface sediment samples from the aquatic habitats for bioaccumulation testing at the

EPA Region 4 SESD laboratory;

6. Collect fish samples from East and West Mineral Creek. The fish samples will be sent to the

EPA Region 4 SESD laboratory for chemical analyses.

7. Collect soil and sediment samples for further characterizafion ofthe site.

Step 4: Deflne the Boundaries of the Study

This step defines the spatial and temporal boundaries ofthe study. Soil samples will be collected from within

the property boundary at a depth of 0 to 6 inches below ground surface (bgs). The locations of the soil

samples are shown in Figure 4-1. Sediment samples will be collected from the aquatic habitats as shown in

Figure 4-2. Surface sediment samples will be collected from 0 to 3 inches bgs. Fish will be collected in both

East and West Mineral Creek, where fish are available. Since these are intermittent streams, the precise

locafions for collecting the fish samples will be identified based on field condifions. Sediment and surface

water samples will be collected in the area where fish are collected.

Step 5: Develop a Decision Rule

The purpose of this step is to define the parameter of interest, specify the acfion level, and integrate previous

DQO outputs into a single statement that describes a logical basis for choosing among altemative actions.

The data collected during this site investigation will be evaluated and compared to toxicity reference values

(TRV) for each constituent. The TRVs may be a permitted limit, reference concentration, toxicity

benchmark, or a risk-based concentration. The primary parameters of interest are the concentrations of PCP

and dioxins/furans. If the data collected exceed any TRVs, then remedial goal opfions (RGO) will be

calculated and presented in Step 7, the Risk Characterization.

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Fish represent a food source for upper trophic-level organisms found in the area and were therefore, selected

for collection and analysis. Tissue concentrations frorn fish samples will be included in food-web models

to evaluate the effects of the site contaminants on the ecological receptors at the site. Invertebrates also serve

as a food source for wildlife. The results of tissue analysis from the bioaccumulation tests will be included

in food-web models to evaluate the effects of the site contaminants on the ecological receptors at the site.

Standard rounding mles will apply. If the next decimal place after the decimal place to be.rounded to is 5:

(a) plus the slightest remainder (i.e., 1.151), then the number will be rounded up (1.2); or (b) with no

remainder (1.150 or 1.450), then the number will be rounded to the nearest even number (1.2 or 1.4,

respectively).

Step 6: Specify Tolerable Limits on Decision Errors

Decision maker's tolerable limits on decision enors, which are used to establish performance goals for the

data collecfion design, are specified in this step. Decision makers are interested in knowing the tme value

of the consfituent concentrations. Since analytical data can only esfimate these values, decisions that are

based on measurement data could be in enor (decision enor). There are two reasons why the decision maker

may not know the tme value of the consfituent concentrafion, and these are:

1. Concentrafions may vary over time and space. Limited sampling may miss some features ofthis

natural variafion because it is usually impossible or impractical to measure every point of a

populafion. Sampling design enor occurs when the sampling design is unable to capture the

complete extent of natural variability that exists in the tme state of the envu-onment.

2. Analytical methods and instmments are never absolutely perfect, hence a measurement can only

estiinate the tme value of an environmental sample. Measurement enor refers to a combination

of random and systematic enors that inevitably arise during the various steps to the measurement

process.

The combination of sampUng design and measurement enor is the total study enor. Since it is impossible

to completely eliminate total study enor, basing decisions on sample concentrafions may lead to a decision

enor. The probability of decision enor is controlled by adopting a scientific approach such that the data are

used to select between one condition (the null hypothesis) and another (the altemative hypothesis). The null

hypothesis is presumed to be tme in the absence of evidence to the contrary. For this project the null

hypothesis is that the tme values of the constituents are at or below background or reference values. The

altemative hypothesis is that the tme values of the constituents are above the reference levels.

A false positive or "Type f decision enor refers to the type of enor made when the null hypothesis is rejected

when it is tme and a false negafive or "Type H" decision enor refers to the type of enor made when the null

hypothesis is accepted when it is false. For this project, a Type I decision enor would result in deciding that

the site was contaminated above reference levels ("dirty") when it is not and a Type II decision enor would

result in deciding that the site was not contaminated above action levels ("clean") when it is. For example,

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if the reference level for a consfituent is 2,300 mg/kg, the reported concentration is 2,200 mg/kg, and the tme

value is 2,400 mg/kg, a Type I enor could easily be made by not applying any decision enor limits. For this

project, a Type n enor is less acceptable (worse case) than a Type I enor because a Type II enor could result

in ecological and/or human harm whereas, a Type I enor could result in spending money for further

investigafing a "clean" site.

The closer the reported concentration is to the reference concentrations, the higher the probability that an

inconect decision will be made and, therefore, tolerable decision limits are established outside the acfion level

to allow decision makers to make a decision based on professional judgment. A tolerable limit has been

identified as the reference concentrafion plus/minus 10%. In this area, the decision makers may decide that

although the reported concentration is below the reference concentration, so as to not make a Type n decision

enor, the null hypothesis is rejected.

Step 7: Optimize the Design for Obtaining Data

This step identifies a resource-effective data collection design for generating data that are expected to satisfy

the DQOs. The data collection design (sampling program) is described in detail in the work plan and SAP.

Precision, Accuracy, Representativeness, Completeness, and Comparabihty Requirements

Precision, accuracy, representativeness, completeness, and comparability (PARCC) parameters are indicators

of data quality. The PARCC goals are established for the site characterization to aid in assessing data quality.

The precision and accuracy criteria for this invesdgation are defined by the EPA CLP Statement ofWork

(SOW). PARCC criteria for field measurements and other non-CLP measurements are discussed in the

_EISOPQAM (USEPA 2001) and in the following sections.

Precision

Precision measures the reproducibility of measurements under a given set of condifions. Specifically, it is a

quantitative measure ofthe variability of a group of measuremeiits compared to their average value. Precision

is usually stated in terras of standard deviation but other estimates such as the coefficient of variation (relative

standard deviation), range (maximum value minus minimum value), and relative range (relative percent

difference) are common. The overall precision of measurement data is a mixture of sampling and analytical

factors. Analytical precision is much easier to control and quantify than sampling precision. Whereas

sampling precision is unique to each site, historical data is related to individual method performance and is

limited to the samples received in the laboratory.

Sampling precision may be determined by collecfing and analyzing collocated or field duplicate samples and

then comparing the results obtained to the results obtained for laboratory duplicates from one or more of the

field samples. The analytical results from collocated or field duplicate samples provide an indication of overall

measurement precision. The analytical results from the laboratory duplicates provide an indication of

analytical precision. Sampling precision may be esfimated by comparing the analytical precision to the

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measurement precision.

Precision will be assessed by the measurement of separate replicates of a particular determination. Generally,

standard deviation (SD), relafive standard deviation (RSD), or relafive percent difference (RPD) are used to

assess precision according to the following formulae. .

Standard deviation:

SD E ( ^ i - ^ ) '

N (n - 1 )

where:

x, = individual measurement

X = average of the individual measurements

n = number of individual measurements

Percent relative standard deviation:

% RSD - ^ X 100

where:

SD = standard deviafion

X = mean of the individual measurements

Relative percent difference

RPD = 'Ai S ^ D )

RPD = I "̂ ^ I X 100

where:

S = result obtained for the original sample

D = result obtained for the duplicate

The objective for precision is to equal or exceed the precision demonstrated for similar samples under similar

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sets of condifions.

Accuracy

Accuracy is the degree of agreement of a measurement (or an average of measurements of the same quality

or quantity) X, with an accepted reference or tme value, T, usually expressed as the difference between the

two yalues, X-T, or the difference as a percentage of the reference or tme value, 100 (X-T)/T, and sometimes

expressed as a ratio, X/T.

t

Accuracy measures the bias in a measurement system, i.e., the enor in a method which systematically distorts

results. Sources of enor include the sampUng process, field contamination, preservafion, handling, sampling

matrix, sample preparation, and analysis techniques. Sampling accuracy may be assessed by evaluating the

results of field/trip blanks. Analytical accuracy may be assessed through the use of known and unknown QC

samples and matrix spikes.

Analytical accuracy shall be assessed from measurements of samples spiked with known concentrations of

reference materials (PE Samples). The assessment for accuracy shall be independent ofthe routine calibration

process. Normally, the percent recovery shall be used to assess accuracy. The following equafion shall be used

under the CLP for determination of percent recovery:

( A: - B: ) Pr = ^—^ — X 100 I

Tl

where:

Pj = percent recovery

Aj = result obtained from the spiked sample

B| = result obtained from the unspiked sample

Tj = tme or known value of the spike

The objective for accuracy is to equal or exceed the accuracy demonstrated for similar samples under similar

sets of conditions.

Representativeness

Representativeness is the degree to which data accurately and precisely represent a characteristic of a

population, a process condition, an environmental condition, or parameter variations at a sampling point.

Representativeness of a data set is a quality objective attributable to both the selection of type and number of

samples to be taken and the analysis to be performed so that the data generated will adequately represent the

conditions found at the site at the time of sample collection. The representativeness criterion is best satisfied

20

by making certain that sampling locafions are selected properly and a sufficient number of samples are

collected. Other concems, such as proper techniques for isolating a portion of sample to be analyzed from the

quantity of sample taken from the field, and isolation of samples from subsequent contamination, may also be

critical. The two concems identified above may be evaluated through an examination of collocated or replicate

data and blank data. By definition, collocated samples are collected so that they are equally representative of

a given point in space and fime. In this way, they provide both precision and representafiveness informafion.

During the data validation process, the factors that shall be evaluated which influence representafiveness

include choice of methods, the level and sources of contamination, accuracy, and precision. Data validators

can assess representativeness best if they have information about field duplicates and other field QC samples.

Comparabihty

Comparability is the measure of whether and to what degree a data set can be compared to other data sets. To

opfimize comparability, standardized analytical procedures and standard reporting units shall be used.

To detemiine whether data are comparable, the sampling methods employed in the site program, the chain-of-

custody methods responsible for the transfer of the sampled items to the analytical laboratories, and the

analytical methodologies implemented at the laboratories shall be evaluated for uniformity and conformity.

Sample data shall be comparable with other measurement data for similar samples and sample condifions.

Knowledge of what methods have been used previously to make measurements at the site can facilitate an

evaluation of comparability during the data validafion process. Comparability is dependent upon the other data

quality parameters because only when precision and accuracy are known can data sets be compared with

confidence.

Completeness

Completeness is a measure of the amount of valid data obtained frpm a measurement system compared to the

amount that was expected to be obtained under normal conditions. If this goal is known by the data validators,

percent completeness shall be calculated by dividing the number of valid sample results by the total number

of results that were expected to have been obtained, and multiplying the result by 100. It is generally

understood that completeness is only jeopardized by rejected data or data not collected.

Selectivity/Sensitivity

The choices of methods made prior to the start of an environmental project are made after considerafion of the

ability ofthe method to identify the analytes of concem (selectivity) and to allow detection of each analyte at

or below some concentration of concem (sensitivity). Certain procedural choices made either in the field or

in the laboratory can have an influence on selecfivity and sensitivity. Losses of target analytes due to improper

sample preservafion or storage shall be assessed by the data validator by examining chain-of-custody

information, laboratory sample receipt and tracking documentafion, and pH measurement results. Choices

made at the laboratory with respect to sample dilutions, based on appearance or initial sample results, directly

affect reportable detection limits. The data validator shall detemiine whether appropriate dilutions were done

21

to optimize method sensifivity, and whether method conditions were adequately followed to ensure method

selectivity to all target analytes.

A7 .Special Training/Certification

There are no specific special training/certification requirements for these investigations. All field sampling

personnel are required to have 40 hours of OSHA mandated hazardous waste site training and subsequent

annual refresher training. Only experienced field sampling personnel with specific knowledge and expertise

in sample collecfion, sample analyses, and safety techniques will be used for these investigafions. All

professional and paraprofessional investigators working at the Davis Timber site shall have the equivalent

of six months field experience before they are pemiitted to select sampling sites on their own initiative. This

field experience shall be gained by on-the-job training using the "buddy" system. Each new investigator

should accompany an experienced employee on as many different types of field studies as possible. During

this training period, the new employee will be pemiitted to perform all facets of field investigafions, including

sampling, under the direction and supervision of senior investigators.

Field and analytical personnel at the EPA Region 4 SESD are also required to undergo a Safety, Health, and

Envu-onmental Management (SHEM) training. All SHEM training shall be performed in accordance with

the SHEM Procedures and Policy Manual (USEPA 2002d). Training records for EPA personnel and ESAT

contractors are on file at the EPA Region 4 SESD office.

A8 Documents and Records

Different documents and records shall be prepared for these investigafions and every effort will be made to

ensure that the appropriate personnel receive the cunent version of the documents. The type of documents

to be produced, the information provided in the documents, procedures for disposition of the records, are

discussed in the following secfions.

Current Version of Documents

It is the responsibility of the field project leader to ensure that all appropriate project personnel possess the

most cunent version of the FSP and QAPP. Each QAPP shall have a document control number and the field

project leader will provide each field team member with the latest edition ofthe QAPP. If revisions are made

to the QAPP, the field project manager may replace only the affected pages (if the changes are minor) or

replace the entire QAPP (if the changes are major). In addition, all project personnel shall have copies or

ready access to the latest revision of the following Regipn 4 quality assurance/quality control (QA/QC)

, documents; EISOPQAM (USEPA 2001), EASOPQAM (USEPA 2002b), and ASBLOQCM (USEPA 2003b).

AU records of personnel receiving copies ofthe project documents (including the FSP/QAPP, work plan, final

reports) shall be documented in the project files.

Data Report Packages

Data report packages produced by EPA Region 4 wiU follow the procedures provided in the appropriate EPA

22

Manuals. Field records will be produced and stored in accordance with EISOPQAM (USEPA 2001) or

EASOPQAM (USEPA 2002b), and analytical records will comply with the Analytical Support Branch

Laboratory Operations and Quality Control Manual (ASBLOQCM) (USEPA 2003b). Contract analytical

laboratories will submit analytical data report packages to the EPA Region 4 SESD field project manager.

Both electronic and hard copy deliverables will be provided. At a minimum, each data report package shall

contain the following items:

• a case nanafive that briefly describes the number of samples, the analyses, and any analytical

difficulties or QA/QC issues associated with the submitted samples;

• raw data (including chromatograms, sample preparation and analysis forms, and other bench

sheets);

• field records;

• signed chain-of-custody forms;

• cooler receipt forms;

• analytical data (including instmment printouts, calibration results, QA/QC results, etc); and

• QC package.

Reports to be Produced

At the end of the investigation, a site investigation report will be produced. The format of the report and

items included in the report wiU contain the following items:

1. Introducfion -When the investigafion was conducted; EPA, state, or other regulatory agency

participation; facility representatives and what their participation included; who requested the

investigafion; and the objectives.

2. ,. Reference ~ Study area descriptions, manufacturing process and waste handling priorities, results

.of previous investigafions, etc. A site map depicting major stmctures and facilities, as well as

sampling locations will be included.

3. Summary — A brief summary of the key results and conclusions of the study. This shall include

any unforeseen items or events.

4. Discussion ~ All aspects pertinent to the investigation, such as analytical results, deficiencies,

a site map showing sampling locations, etc.

5. Methodology - A statement indicating that this SOP was followed and/or reasons why not and

whether or not samples were split and with whom.

6. Conclusions ~ At the discretion of the author, a "Conclusions" section for complex

investigations.

7. Reference and Appendices ~ Laboratory data sheets, checklists, etc.

Final Disposition of Records and Documents

Field records will be disposed of in accordance with EISOPQAM (USEPA 2001) or EASOPQAM (USEPA

2002b) and analytical records disposifion will follow the ASBLOQCM (USEPA 2003b).

23

GROUP B - DATA GENERATION AND ACQUISITION

This section covers sample process design, sampling methods requirements, handling and custody, analytical

methods, QC, equipment maintenance, instmment calibration, supply acceptance, nondirect measurements,

and data management. All data collected during this site investigafion is considered definitive data. The EPA

and/or ESAT data validafion staff shall review and validate all field and laboratory QC data for conectness.

If the QC data indicate sampling or analytical enors, the cause of the enors shall be investigated and

conected, if necessary.

Bl Samphng Process Design

The general goals of the field investigafion are to collect and analyze biotic and abiotic samples from the

Davis Timber site in order to verify and quanfify the presence of COPCs. One of the goals is to obtain a

sediment concentrafion gradient based on PCP concentrations for use in toxicity tests. The concentration

gradient was selected based on PCP concentrations detected from previous site investigations. The field

invesfigafion activifies will comprise several individual tasks. The specific data coUection efforts for the

Davis Timber site will include the following:

1. Surface sediment/soil sampling;

2. Freshwater surface water sampling; and

3. Fish sampUng

The proposed sampUng locafions are presented in Figures 4-1 and 4-2. The number and types of samples,

' sampling locafions, and analyses parameters the site invesdgations are discussed in Section 4 of the Study

Design and DQO Process document (Step 4 of the 8-step process). A summary of the number of samples,

analysis, methods, sample containers, sample preservafion methods, and holding times are described in

Table 4-3.

B2 Samphng Methods

Mechanical equipment will be used to collect soil/sediment and surface water samples. The specific

collection techniques and procedures shall be based on the guidelines in the EISOPQAM (USEPA 2001) and

EASOPQAM (USEPA 2002b). The specific sampling method requirements, backup equipment, and

conecfive actions in terms of equipment failure are described in the EISOPQAM (USEPA 2001)and

EASOPQAM (USEPA 2002b). The field project manager shall ensure that an adequate number of sampling

equipmerit, personnel, and supplies are available for the performance of all sampling activities. Any

deviations from the sampling protocols described in die EISOPQAM (USEPA 2001) and/or EASOPQAM

(USEPA 2002b) shall be approved by the field project leader and shall be documented in the field logbook(s).

B2.1 Sampling Equipment and Preparation

Sampling equipment required for the field program for environmental monitoring, sampling, health and safety

monitoring, equipment and personal decontamination, and general field operations are presented in the

EISOPQAM (USEPA 2001) and EASOPQAM (USEPA 2002b).

24

B2.2 Sample Containers, Preservation Methods, and Holding Times

Properly prepared sample containers that have been cleaned according to EPA standards (certified clean) will

be obtained from the EPA Region 4 SESD Field Equipment Center (EEC), in Athens, Georgia. The samples

will be collected in approved containers and preserved as specified in the EISOPQAM (USEPA 2001). In

order to obtain an adequate volume of sediment for use in the bioaccumulation tests, larger sample containers

shall be used. A 5-gallon bucket or 2-five liter plastic containers shall be used for each bioaccumulation

sample. The sample holding times are provided in Appendix A of the EISOPQAM (USEPA 2001). The

sample containers, preservafion methods, and holdmg times for this site investigation are provided in Table

4-3 of this SAP.

B2.3 Samphng Equipment Decontamination

Field sampling equipment decontamination shall be performed at the EPA Region 4 SESD EEC. The field

and FEC decontamination procedures are described in the EISOPQAM (USEPA 2001).

All investigation-derived waste (IDW) shall be coUected and containerized and properly disposed. Clothing

and miscellaneous trash generated during the investigation shall be bagged and disposed of in a commercial

dumpster. The procedures for coUecfing and disposing of EDW are provided in the EISOPQAM (USEPA

2001) and the EASOPQAM (USEPA 2002b).

B3 Sample Handling and Custody

All field sample collection, handling, and shipment procedures will adhere to those outlined in the

EISOPQAM (USEPA 2001) and EASOPQAM (USEPA 2002b). After collecfion, all sample handling shall

be minimized. Field samplers shall use extreme care to prevent sample contamination. Samplers shall ensure

that if samples are placed in an ice chest, melted ice cannot cause the sample containers to become

submerged, as this may result in sample cross-contamination. Plastic bags, such as Zip-Loc® bags or similar

plastic bags sealed with tape, shall be used when small sample containers (e.g., VOC vials) are placed in ice

chests to prevent cross-contamination. Soil and sediment samples (non-volatile only) shall be mixed

thoroughly to ensure that the sample is as representative as possible of the sample media. The most common

method of mixing is refened to as quartering. The quartering procedure shall be performed as follows:

1. The material in the sample pan shall be divided into quarters and each quarter shall be mixed

individually.

2. Two quarters shall then be mixed to form halves.

3. The two halves shall be mixed to form a homogenous matrix .

This procedure shall be repeated several times until the sample is adequately mixed. If round bowls are used

for sample mixing, adequate mixing is achieved by stirring the material iri a circular fashion, reversing

dkection, and occasionally tuming the material over.

B3.1 Sample Labeling and Identification

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An alphanumeric coding system will uniquely identify each sample collected during the field invesfigation.

A coding system is used to identify each sample collected during the sampling program. This coding system

will provide a tracking procedure to allow retrieval of information conceming a particular sample and assure

that each sample is uniquely identified. Each sample idenfification number is composed of a minimum of

three components (sometimes four) that are described as follows:

Site Code: A two-letter designation will be used to identify the sample collection site. The designation for

this site will be as follows:

DT - Davis Timber

Sample Media Code: A two-letter designation will be used to identify the specific medium being sampled.

The sample media designation for this site invesfigafion are as follows:

SS - Surface soil

SD - Sediment

SW - Surface water

RS -Rinseate

BF - Biota fish

TOX - Toxicity test

BIO - Bioaccumulation test

PB - Preservative blank

Number: A.mulfi-number designation will be used to number the sample according to sample location or,

for trip blanks and rinseate blanks, are numbered sequentially. Samples are numbered consecutively within

the sample type and are not related to the date of collection (i.e., 01,02, etc.). Duplicate samples are indicated

by having a prefix of "5" (e.g., 521 = duplicate of sample 21 for a given media). .

Based on this numbering system, a sample labeled as DT-SD-020-BIO would represent a sediment sample

collected from the Davis Timber site location 20 for use in bioaccumulation testing.

B3.2 Sample Label

A sample tag shall be completed for each sample using waterproof non-erasable ink. Details of the sample

tagging procedures are provided in Secfion 5 of the EISOPQAM (USEPA 2001) and Section 7 of the

EASOPQAM (USEPA 2002b).

B3.3 Sample Seals

Samples shall be sealed as soon as possible following collecfion ufilizing the EPA custody seal (EPA Form

26

7500-2(R7-75)). Details of the use of the sample seals shall be obtained from Secfion 5 of the EISOPQAM

(USEPA 2001) and Section 7 ofthe EASOPQAM (USEPA 2002b). The sample custodian shall date, sign,

and initial the seal.

B3.4 Chain-of-Custody Record

Chain-of-Custody procedures shall be performed as discussed in Section 5 of the EISOPQAM (USEPA,

2001) and Section 8 of the EASOPQAM (USEPA, 2002b), and are briefly described in below. The field

Chain-of-Custody Record shall be used to record the custody of all samples or other physical evidence

collected and maintained by field samplers. This Chain-of-Custody Record documents transfer of custody

of samples from the sample custodian to another person, to the laboratory, or other organizational elements.

A sample is considered in custody if it is:

1. In one's actual possession;

2. In view after being in physical possession;

3. Sealed so that sample integrity will be maintained after being in physical custody; or

4. In a secure area, restricted to authorized personnel.

To simplify the Chain-of-Custody Record as few people as possible shall have custody of the samples or

physical evidence during any field sampling event. The Chain-of-Custody Record also serves as a sample

logging mechanism for the laboratory sample custodian. A Chain-of-Custody Record shall be completed for

all samples or physical evidence collected. A separate Chain-of-Custody Record should be used for each final

destination or laboratory utilized during the investigation. All of the information will be completed in the

indicated spaces on the field Chain-of-Custody Record (see EISOPQAM for copy). The Chain-of-Custody

Record is a serialized document. Once the Record is completed, it becomes an accountable document and

shall be maintained in the project file.

B3.5 Sample Shipment/Transportation

Sample shipment shall be performed in accordance with the procedures described in Appendix D of the

EISOPQAM (USEPA, 2001) and Section 8 of the EASOPQAM (USEPA, 2002b).

B3.6 Sample Receipt/Storage

In the lab, samples shall be received by the EPA sample custodian or designate. Samples that are delivered

after hours by field personnel shall be secured in the custody room by the field personnel and will be received

by the sample custodian or designate the foUowing day. If samples are received after hours, or on weekends

the Facility Guard shall secure the samples in the custody room and then notify the sample custodian or

designate the next business day. EPA personnel sometimes receive samples from the field and after hours.

27

In these instances, the person receiving the sample shall sign the Chain-of-Custody form, check and record

cooler temperature, and give the Chain-of-Custody to the EPA sample custodian. If there are any problems

with the samples, the field program leader shall be notified immediately.

Upon arrival at the SESD laboratory, all samples shall be stored in the EPA custody room. Access to the

custody rooin is controlled by swipe card entry which is monitored by computer. Each time a swipe card is

used, the name of the card user, the date, and time of entry are stored electronically. At the time of receipt,

the sample custodian shall sign the Chain-of-Custody form and record the date and time of sample receipt.

The sample custodian shall be responsible for the inspection of all shipping containers received in the lab for

overall integrity and to ensure that the containers were not altered or tampered with during shipment. He/she

will also check the cooler temperature and ensure that there were no sample container breakages or sample

leaks during shipment. If there are any problems with any of the samples, the sample custodian shall record

the problem and immediately notify the field project leader for further acfion. Details of the sample receipt

and storage procedures are provided in Section 3 of the ASBLOQCM (USEPA, 2003b) and Section 2 of the

EASOPQAM (USEPA, 2002b).

B4 Analytical Methods

Both field and laboratory analytical methods will be performed for this site,investigafion. In addition to

chemical analyses, laboratory analysis will include toxicity and bioaccumuladon testing.

B4.1 Chemistry Laboratory Analytical Methods

AU analyses shall be performed in accordance with the cunent CLP SOW: The analytical methods,

equipment and standards, calibradon procedures, extraction and digestion procedures, laboratory

decontamination procedures, waste disposal procedures, conective actions, and any specific method

performance requirements have been specified in the CLP SOW. The method reporting units and minimum

quantitation limits will be based on the CLP contract requu-ed quantitation limits (CRQL) provided in the

OLM04.3 and ILM05.3 SOW and reproduced in Table 4-5 for TAL inorganic compounds and Table 4-6 for

TCL organic compounds.

If a CLP method is not available for a particular analysis, other EPA-approved methods may be used. Details

of other EPA methods to be used for this site investigation are provided in the ASBLOQCM (USEPA,

2003b). For non-standard method applications, such as for unusual sample matrices and situafions,

appropriate method performance study information shall be used to confum the performance of the method

for the particular matrix as directed by the project manager. If previous performance studies are not available.

28

they shall be developed during the project, as directed by the project manager, and included as part of the

project results.

B4.2 Field Analytical Methods

Field analytical methods will also be used to check the concentrations of selected inorganic species prior to

sampling. The Field Analytical Support Project (FASP) equipment required, and sub-sampling or extraction

methods and quanfitafion limits are provided in the FASP SOPs and in the EISOPSQAM (USEPA, 2001) and

EASOPQAM (USEPA, 2002b).

B4.3 Toxicity Testing Methods

The toxicity test methods, equipment required, and sub-sampling methods shall be obtained from the

EASOPQAM (USEPA, 2002b), toxicity laboratory SOPs, and from the following documents:

• Short-Term Methods for Estimating the Chronic Toxicity of Effluents and Receiving Waters to

Fre5/zwarerOrgcinwms. EPA-600-4-91-002. (USEPA, 1994a);

• Short-Term Methods for Estimating the Chronic Toxicity of Effluents and Receiving Waters to

Marine and Estuarine Organisms. EPA-600-4-91-003. (USEPA, 1994b);

• Methods for Measuring the Acute Toxicity of Effluents to Freshwater and Marine Organisms.

EPA-600-4-90-027F. (USEPA, 1993);

• Methods for Measuring the Toxicity and Bioaccumulation of Sediment-associated Contaminants

wif/i Frei^warer/Mvmefcrato. EPA/600/R-99/064. (USEPA, 2000a);

• Protocols for Short Term Toxicity Screening of Hazardous Waste Sites. EPA/600/3-88/029.

(USEPA, 1989);

• American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) methods (latest revision); and

• Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastes (latest revision).

B5 QuaUty Control

Each sampling, analysis, or measurement technique to be performed for this site investigation has associated

QC requirements. QC activities associated with the field operations include, but are not liniited to the

foUowing: field blanks, field duplicates, split samples, temperature blanks, equipment (rinse) blanks, and rinse

blanks. Laboratory QC acfivities may include use of blanks, matrix spike and matrix spike duplicates,

sunogates, second column confirmation, laboratory control samples, initial and continuing calibration

verifications, etc. The specific QC requirements, acceptance criteria, conective action in case of non­

conformance, and the procedures used to calculate applicable statistics, are provided in the EPA Region 4

field and laboratory SOPs and methods, and in die foUowing QA/QC documents: EISOPQAM (USEPA,

2001), EASOPQAM (USEPA, 2002b), ASBLOQCM (USEPA, 2003b), CLP SOW for organic and inorganic

29

analyses OLM04.3 (USEPA, 2003a) and 1LM05.2 (USEPA, 2002e). The procedures used to calculate

applicable statistics are also presented in Section 3 of this QAPP.

B6 . Instrument/Equipment Testing, Inspection, and Maintenance

Inspecfions and acceptance tesfing of instmments, equipment, and their components affecfing quaUty in the

field and laboratory shaU be performed and documented in field notebooks and in laboratory instmment

logbooks to assure their intended use as specified. Final acceptance ofall instmments, equipment, and suppUes

will be performed by the EPA Project Manager or designee.

B6.1 Field Instruments

Proper testing, inspection, and maintenance of field instmmentation is crifical to ensuring the longevity ofthe

useful life of the instmment, as well as, providing reliable analyses and data. All project field personnel shall

be responsible for ensuring that primary maintenance is carried out on their field instmments. Typical field

instmments will include pH meter, thermometer, specific conductivity meter, turbidity meter, air monitoring

meter, etc. The types of field instmments and procedures for carrying out preventive maintenance on the field

instmments are provided in the EISOPQAM (USEPA, 2001) and the EASOPQAM (USEPA, 2002b).

Critical spare parts shall be kept for field instmments and instmment logs as determined by the EPA Field

Equipment Center (FEC) manager. Records of instmment repairs shaU be kept in field instmment logbooks.

Service agreements shall be in place with the various instmment manufacturers to perform routine maintenance

bf all field instmments as necessary. If any field equipment failure occurs that cannot be readily remedied by

the field personnel, or any required equipment or supplies are unavailable to accomplish requu-ed work, the

field project manager shall take immediate action to resolve the situafion.

B6.2 Laboratory Instruments

Proper tesfing, inspection, and maintenance of laboratory instmmentation is a key ingredient to both the

longevity of the useful life of the mstmment, as well as, providing reliable analyses and data. All project

analysts shall be responsible for ensuring that primary maintenance is carried out on their instmments. A list

of the laboratory instmments requiring periodic mamtenance may be found in the ASBLOQCM (USEPA,

2003b) and the EASOPQAM (USEPA, 2002b). The procedures for carrying out prevenfive maintenance on

all analytical instiiiments are provided in the ASBLOQCM (USEPA, 2003b) and the EASOPQAM (USEPA,

.2002b).

Critical spare parts shall be kept on all of the instmments, and records of instmment repairs shall be kept in

instmment logbooks. Any routine maintenance services on the various instmments shall be maintained, as

30

per service agreements. If any laboratory equipment failure occurs that cannot be readily remedied by the

laboratory personnel, or any required equipment or supplies are unavailable to accomplish required work, the

lab manager shall immediately be notified for further acfion.

B7 Instrument/Equipment CaUbration and Frequency

Laboratory and field instmments and equipment used for data generafion or collection shall be inspected and

calibrated according to the manufacturers' specifications. The frequency ofthe calibrafions is dependent on

the type of instmment/equipment, manufacturer's recommendations, and intended use.

B7.1 Field Instruments

Calibradon procedures and frequency for field instmments such as pH, salinity, conductivity, and dissolved

oxygen meters, turbidimeters, and organ ic vapor analyzers, shall be performed in the field prior to use and after

use, and in accordance with the procedures described in the EISOPQAM (USEPA, 2001) and the

EASOPQAM (USEPA, 2002b).

B7.2 Laboratory Instruments

Calibration procedures and frequency for laboratory instmments shall be performed according to the

procedures described in the ASBLOQCM (USEPA, 2003b) and EASOPQAM (USEPA, 2002b).

B8 Inspection/Acceptance of SuppUes and Consumables

Prior to acceptance, all field and laboratory supplies and consumables will be inspected to ensure that they

are in satisfactory condition and free of defects. The responsible personnel and specific procedures to be used

for the inspection and acceptance of supplies and consumables are specified in the EISOPQAM (USEPA,

2001), EASOPQAM (USEPA, 2002b), and ASBLOQCM (EPA 2003b).

B9 Non-direct Measurements

Non-direct measurement data include information from site reconnaissances, literature searches, and

interviews. The acceptance criteria for such data include a review by someone other than the author. Any

measurement data included in information obtained from the above-referenced sources will determine further

acfion at the site only to the extent that those data can be verified. '

BIO Data Management

All field and analytical data generated from the site invesfigafions shall be managed through the EPA Region

4 data management and document control and security system. Field documents shall be kept in project files

maintained by the Field Project Leader unfil project completion. The Field Project Leader shall track all of

31

the data and maintain the original chain-of-custody records. Details ofthe tracking procedures for managing

all field data shall be based on the EISOPQAM (USEPA, 2001) and EASOPQAM (USEPA, 2002b).

Laboratory data shall be maintained through the Region 4 Laboratory Information Management System

(R4LIMS). R4LIMS shall be used to manage all analytical data, their final use and storage, and to provide

security for all analytical data. Details of the data tracking procedures and data management and security

procedures are specified in the ASBLOQCM (USEPA, 2003b).

EPA Region 4 computer databases shall be used to store, track, and retrieve all project information.

Personnel training records, travel requests, project status, progress reports, meeting records, conespondence,

document control numbers, etc. shall be tracked through these computer databases. Additional details of the

data tracking and management system, as well as the control mechanisms for detecting and controlling enors

are provided in Region 4 QMP (USEPA, 2003c), EISOPQAM (USEPA, 2001) and EASOPQAM (USEPA,

2002b).

BlO.l Data Entry and Corrections

All data entries shall be made in indelible ink and shall be dated on the day of the entry and shall be signed

or initialed by the person entering the data.

Conections to project documents shall be made according to Good Laboratory Practice (GLP) and Good

Automated Laboratory Practice (GALP) guidelines. All records shall be made in indelible ink. Any change

in entries shall be made so as not to obstmct the original entry (a single line through the inconect entry), shall

indicate a reason for such change, and shall be dated and signed or identified at the time of such change.

In automated data coUection systems, the individual responsible for the direct data input shall be identified at

the time of the data input. Any change in automated data entries shall be made so as not to obstmct the

original entry (a single line through the inconect entry), shall indicate a reason for such change, and shall be

dated and signed or identified at the time of such change.

GROUP C: ASSESSMENT AND OVERSIGHT

The elements in this section address the types of assessments and oversight activities to be performed for the

site investigations in order to ensure that the QAPP is implemented as planned.

Cl Assessments and Response Actions

The EPA Region 4 QA Program includes both self-assessments and independent assessments as checks on

quality of data generated for all work assignments. All documents prepared for the project will undergo

32

different levels of review starting from the primary person preparing the document to peer reviews. Roufine

audits of the laboratory activities may be conducted by the organic and inorganic Section Chiefs. The QA

Officer may also perform independent audits of the field and laboratory operations. The Chiefs of the

Hazardous Waste Section and Ecological Assessment Branch may also perfomi audits of the field activifies

pertaining to their sections. Also, QA personnel from the EPA headquarters may perform audits of the

laboratory. If any problems are identified during any of the audits, immediate step shall be taken to conect

them. These steps may include conecting the problem in the presence of the assessor, or if the problem

cannot be immediately cpnected, a memorandum may be sent to the field project leader or responsible party

to conect any identified discrepancies. Further information on assessments and response actions may be

found in Section 2 of the EISOPQAM (USEPA, 2001).

C2 Reports to Management

The SESD QA officer will provide QA reports to management on a monthly basis. The monthly QA reports ^

will include project status, the results of system audits, and periodic quality assessments. In addition,

whenever major quality problems are encountered, a QA report will be prepared to document the quality

problem and proposed conecfive measures. Field staff will note any quality problems in a logbook or other

form of documentation.

GROUP D:DATA VALIDATION AND USABILITY

All of the field and laboratory data collected during the site investigation shaU undergo rigorous review,

verification, and validation processes as discussed in the foUowing sections.

Dl Data Review, Verification, and VaUdation

The EPA Region 4 Office of Quality Assurance (OQA) shall review, verify, and validate all ofthe analytical

data produced from the site investigations. Data generated through the CLP SOW shall be reviewed and

validated based on the National Funcfional Guidelines for data review (organic and inorganic). All other data

shall be reviewed and validated using EPA Region 4 data review SOPs. The specific procedures for

accepting, rejecting, and/or qualifying the data in a consistent and objective manner may be obtained from

the following documents:

1. USEPA Contract Laboratory Program Nafional Functional Guidelines for Organic Data Review.

EPA 540/R-99/008. Office of Emergency and Remedial Response. United States Envu-onmental

Protection Agency, Washington, DC 20460. (USEPA, 1999a).

2. USEPA Contract Laboratory Program National Functional Guidelines for Inorganic Data

Review. Final. EPA 540-R-01-008. United States Environmental Protecfion Agency,

Washington, DC 20460. (USEPA, 2002f).

33

3. Data Validation Standard Operating Procedures for Contract Laboratory Program Routine

Analytical Services, Revision 2.1, Office of Quality Assurance. United States Envu-onmental

Protection Agency, Region 4, SESD, Athens, Georgia. (USEPA, 1999b).

4. Data Validation Standard Operating Procedures for Chlorinated Dioxin/Furan Analysis by High

Resolution Gas Chromatography/High Resolution Mass Spectrometry. Revision 3.0. United

States Environmental Protection Agency, Region 4, SESD, Athens, Georgia. May (USEPA,

2002g).

D2 Verification and VaUdation Methods

Data produced from all site investigafions will be verified through the examination of field notes, field log

books, telephone logs, site photographs, chain-of-custody records, and sample traffic records, which are all

kept in the master project file by the Field Project Leader as part of the Document Control records (see

Section 2 of the EASOPQAM). The data validators will review the sample handling and shipping records,

holding times, laboratory blank analysis, spike recovery, MS/MSD results, performance evaluafion sample

results, and laboratory QC results. They will also verify and perform calculations for the PARCC parameters

as discussed in Group A. Issues involving missing data from the laboratory (e.g., missing results,

chromatograms, forms, or documents, etc.) shall be resolved by the data validators contacting the performing

laboratory for the missing data. Issues regarding the field shall be resolved through the field project leader.

D3 Reconciliation with User Requirements

All ofthe field and analytical data generated from the site investigafions shall be reviewed and validated for

conecmess, and to ensure that the DQOs are met. Any limitafions to the data shall be reported to the decision

makers in the fomi of flags or data qualifiers. A list of data qualifiers, their definition, and their effects on the

reported results will be included in the project deliverables. The Ust of data qualifiers to be used to flag the

data are provided the ASBLOQCM (USEPA, 2003b). After data validation and evaluation, the RPM and risk

assessment group will determine the suitability of the data for their intended usage. This will be done by

reviewing the available data to determine if all of the DQOs idenfified for the site investigations were met.

Any lunitations on the use of the data for the ERA will be communicated to the ecological risk assessor and

discussed m the "Uncertainties" secfion of the project reports and ecological risk assessment.

34

SECTION 4 REFERENCES

r

Black & Veatch, 2003. Screening-Level Ecological Risk Assessment, Steps 1 and 2, Davis Timber Site, Hattiesburg, Lamar County, Mississippi. Revision 1.

Greene, J.C, CL. Bartels, W.J. Wanen-Hicks, B.R. Parkhurst, G.L. Linder, S.A. Peterson, and W.E. Miller. 1989. Protocols for Short Tenn Toxicity Screening of Hazardous Waste Sites. EPA 600/3-88/029. United States Environmental Protecfion Agency. Febmary.

USEPA. 2003a. Multi-Media, Multi-Concentrafion, Organic Analytic Service for Superfund (OLM04.3). EPA 540-F-03-005. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response. Washington, D.C. August.

USEPA. 2003b. Analytical Services Branch Laboratory Operations and Quality Control Manual (ASBLOQCM). United States Environmental Protection Agency. Region 4 Science and Ecosystem Support Division. January.

USEPA. 2003c. Quality Management Plan for EPA Region 4. Revision 2. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Region 4 Science and Ecosystem Support Division. May.

USEPA. 2002a. Davis Timber Site, Remedial Investigafion Report, Hattiesburg, Mississippi. Region 4, Science and Ecosystem Support Division. July.

USEPA. 2002b. Ecological Assessment Standard Operating Procedures and Quality Assurance Manual (EASOPQAM). United States Environmental Protection Agency. Region 4,Science and Ecosystem Support Division. January 2002.

USEPA. 2002c. Guidance for Preparing Quality Assurance Project Plans, EPA QA/G-5. EPA-240-R-02-009. United States Environmental Protection Agency. December.

USEPA. 2002d. Safety, Health and Environmental Management (SHEM) Program Procedures and Policy Manual. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Region 4 Science and Ecosystem Support Division.

USEPA. 2002e. Multi-Media, Mulfi-Concentration, Inorganic Analytic Service for Superfund (ILM05.2). EPA 540-F-02-008. United States Environmental Protecfion Agency. Office of Solid Waste and Emergency Response. Washington, D.C. October.

USEPA. 2002f. Contract Laboratory Program National Functional Guidelines for Inorganic Data Review. Final. EPA 540-R-01-008. United States Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, DC 20460. July.

USEPA. 2002g. Data Validation Standard Operating Procedures for Chlorinated Dioxin/Furan Analysis by High Resolution Gas Chromatography/High Resolution Mass Spectrometry. Revision 3.0. United States Environmental Protection Agency, Region 4, SESD, Athens, Georgia. May.

35

USEPA. 2001. Envu-onmental Investigations Standard Operafing Procedures and Quality Assurance Manual (EISOPQAM). United States Environmental Protection Agency. Region 4 Science and Ecosystem Support Division. November.

USEPA. 2000a. Methods for Measuring the Toxicity and Bioaccumuladon of Sediment-associated Contaminants with Freshwater Invertebrates. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Office of Research and Development. EPA/600/R-99/064. March.

USEPA. 2000b. Guidance for Assessing Sediment Contaminant Data for Use in Fish Advisories, Volume 1. Fish Sarnpling and Analysis. Third Edition. EPA-823-B-007. United States Environmental Protection Agency. Washington, DC.

USEPA. 2000c. Guidance for the Data Quality Objectives Process, EPA QA/G-4. United States Environmental Protection Agency. August.

USEPA. 1999a. Contract Laboratory Program National Funcfional Guidelines for Organic Data Review. EPA 540/R-99/008. Office of Emergency and Remedial Response. United States Environmental Protecfion Agency, Washington, DC 20460. October.

USEPA. 1999b. Data Validation Standard Operating Procedures for Contract Laboratory Program Routine Analytical Services Revision 2.1, Office of Quality Assurance. United States Environmental Protection Agency, Region 4, SESD, Athens, Georgia. July.

USEPA. 1997. Ecological risk assessment guidance for superfund: process for designing and conducfing ecological risk assessments. Interim Final. EPA 540-R-97-006. June.

USEPA. 1994a. Short-Term Methods for Estimating the Chronic Toxicity of Effluents and Receiving Waters to Freshwater Organisms. United States Environmental Protection Agency. EPA-600-4-91-002. July.

USEPA. 1994b. Short-Term Methods for Estimating the Chronic Toxicity of Effluents and Receiving Waters to Marine and Estuarine Organisms. United States Environmental Protection Agency. EPA-600-4-91-003. July.

USEPA. 1993. Methods for Measuring the Acute Toxicity of Effluents to Freshwater and Marine Organisms. United States Environmental Protection Agency. EPA-600-4-90-027F. August.

USEPA. 1989. Protocols for Short Term Toxicity Screening of Hazardous Waste Sites. EPA/600/3-88/029. Febmary.

36

Table 4-1. Concentration Gradient and Locations of Pentachlorophenol Selected for use in the 14-Day SoU Toxicity and 28-Day Bioaccumulation Tests with Eisenia foetida

Sample ID

DT-SS-Ref-1

DT-SS-BIO/TOX-01

DT-SS-BIO/TOX-02

DT-SS-BIO/TOX-03

DT-SS-BIOn'OX-04

Desired PCP Concentration

<2pg/kg

100000 |ig/kg

50000 tig/kg

25000 ng/kg

12500 ng/kg

Measured PCP Concentration

1

NA

68000 ng/kg

28000 pg/kg

8900 ng/kg

100 J ng/kg

Collocated Dioxin/Furan TEQ

NA

393.8 ng/kg

403.72 ng/kg

611.3 ng/kg

317.8 ng/kg

Previous Sampling Location

Reference*

DT002SLA

DT002SLAD**

DT039SLA

DT004SLA

*Reference sample location.

**DT002SLAD is a duplicate of DT002SLA. Will try to achieve concentration similar to 2 values.

NA = Not available.

BIO = Bioaccumulation.

TOX = Toxicity.

Mg/kg = microgram per kilogram. ng/kg = nanogram per kilogram.

37

Table 4-2. Concentrations and Locations of PCP and Dioxins/Furans for use in the 14-Day Sediment Toxicity Tests with Hyalella azjteca and 28- Day Bioaccumulation Tests with Lumbriculus variegatus.

Sample ID

DT-SD-Ref-1

DT-SD-BIO/TOX-01

DT-SD-BlO/TOX-02

DT-SD-BIO/TOX-03

DT-SD-BIOA'OX-04

Desired PCP Concentration

<340 ng/kg

8000 ng/kg

4000 ng/kg

2000 ng/kg

1000 ng/kg

Measured PCP Concentration*

NA '

8200 ng/kg

3700 ng/kg

2500 ng/kg

1400 ng/kg

Collocated Dioxin/Furan TEQ

<2.5 ng/kg

4013.33 ng/kg

2667.3 ng/kg

1549.75 ng/kg

822.98 ng/kg

Previous Sampling Location

Reference

314SD

DT-EMC-SD7

DT-EMC-SD8

DT-EMC-SD6

NA = Not available.

*The measured PCP concentrations and collocated dioxin/furan TEQ for the toxicity/bioaccumulation tests were selected based on

previous analytical results.

BIO = Bioaccumulation.

TOX = Toxicity.

Mg/kg = microgram per kilogram. ng/kg = nanogram per kilogram.

38

Table 4-3. Proposed Number of Abiotic and Biotic Samples, Analysis Methods, Sample Containers, Preservation Methods, and Holding Times, Davis Timber Site, Mississippi

Medium

Sediment

Soil

Sample Type

Toxicity/

Bioaccumulation

and chemical analyses

Toxicity/Bioaccumulation

Toxicity/Bioaccumulation

and general chemistry

Number of Samples

8 (4 for toxicity and

bioaccumulation, 1 reference,

one for site characterization

of West Mineral Creek and 3

from fish sampling locations)

for chemical analyses

- Approximately 3 additional

stations downstream on East

Mineral Creek for pH, TOC,

grain size, PCP, and

dioxin/furan (for

characterization)

5 (based on a PCP and

dioxin/fiiran gradient plus a

reference sample)

5 (4 for toxicity and

bioaccumulation and one

reference) for chemical

analyses. Portion will be

used for seed germination

tests.

- Additional 5 samples for

PCP and dioxin/furan (for

characterization)

Analysis Method

CLP TAL Inorganics SOW ILM05.2

CLP TCL Organics SOW OLM04.3

Dioxins/furans

Grain size (ASTM D421 & D422)

Total Organic Carbon (SW846 Method

9060)

EPA Method 100.1 Hyalella azteca toxicity

test

EPA Method 100.3 Lumbriculus variegatus

bioaccumulation test

CLP TAL Inorganics SOW 1LM05.2

CLP TCL Organics SOW OLM04.3

Dioxins/furans

Total Organic Carbon (SW846 Method

9060)

Sample Container

8-oz wide-mouth jar

8-oz wide-mouth jar

8-oz wide-mouth jar

8-oz wide-mouth jar

, 8-oz wide-mouth jar

1-gallon plastic

bucket

8-oz wide-mouth jar

8-oz wide-mouth jar

8-oz wide-mouth jar

8-6z wide-mouth jar'

Preservative

Ice 4 + 2 "C

Ice 4 + 2 °C

Ice 4 + 2 °C

Ice 4 + 2 "C

Ice 4 + 2 "C

Ice 4 + 2 "C

Ice4 + 2"C

Ice 4 + 2 "C

Ice4 + 2°C

Ice 4 + 2 °C

Holding Time

180 days

Mercury 28 days

14 days to extract

40 days to analyze

NS

28 days '

14 days

180 days

Mercury 28 days

14 days to extract

40 days to analyze

28 days

39

Medium

Surface Water

Fish Tissue

Oligochaete

Tissue

Sample Type

Surface water samples for

chemical analyses

Fish samples for chemical

analyses

Lumbriculus variegatus

tissue

Number of Samples

3 locations (1 composite from

each fish sampling location; 1

from East Mineral Creek, and

1 from West Mineral Creek,

and 1 from reference)

5 locations (2 composites

from each fish sampling

location; 2 from E. Mineral

Creek, and 2 from W.

Mineral Creek, and 1 from

reference)

Max of 15 samples = 5

locations x 3 species/location

= 15 samples for chemical

analyses

6 tissue samples (4 site, I

reference, and 1 lab control,

following the

bioaccumulation tests) for

chemical analyses

Analysis Method

CLP TAL Inorganics SOW 1LM05.2

CLP TCL Organics SOW OLM04.3

Dioxins/furans

Pentachlorophenol

Dioxins/furans

Lipid content

Pentachlorophenol

Dioxins/furans

Lipid content

Sample Container

1 Liter plastic jar

1 Liter Amber bottle

1 Liter Amber bottle

Whole intact fish

wrapped in

aluminum foil

Whole intact fish

wrapped in

aluminum foil

Whole intact fish

wrapped in

aluminum foil

8-oz jar

8-oz jar

8-oz jar

Preservative

Ice4 + 2"C

HNO3 to

pH<2

Ice 4 ± 2 "C

Ice 4 + 2 °C

Freeze with

dry ice

Freeze with

dry ice

Freeze with

dry ice

Freeze wilh

dry ice

Freeze with

dry ice

Freeze with

dry ice

Holding Time

180 days

Mercury 28 days

14 days to extract

40 days to analyze

14 days to extract

40 days to analyze

' 14 days to exuact

40 days to analyze

NS (<28day)

NS (<28day)

NS (<28day)

40

Medium

Earthworm

Tissue

Sample Type

Eisenia foetida tissue

Nnmher of Samples

6 tissue samples (4 site, 1

reference,, and 1 lab control,

following the

bioaccumulation tests) for

chemical analyses

Analysis Method

Pentachlorophenol

Dioxins/furans

Lipid content

Sample Container

8-oz jar

8-oz jar

8-oz jar

Preservative

Freeze with

dry ice

Freeze with

dry ice

Freeze with

dry ice

Holding Time

NS (<28day)

NS (<28day)

NS (<28day)

NOTE: The usual field measurements of temperature, pH, conductivity, dissolved oxygen, hardness, and turbidity will be taken.

CLP = Contract Laboratory Program.

SOW = Statement of Work.

TAL = Target Analyte List.

TCL = Target Compound List.

NS = Not specified. However, for this investigation, hold samples no longer than 28 days.

ASAP = as soon as possible. °C = degrees Celsius. TOC = total organic carbon. PCP = pentachlorophenol.

41

Table 4-4. Davis Timber Data Quahty Management Organizational Chart.

EPA

Project Manager - Amy Williams

Field project leader/ecological risk assessor - Linda George

SESD health and safety officer - Bobby Lewis

The QA manager - Marilyn Thornton

ESAT

ESAT contractor field team leader - Brian Hemdon

Sampling Members Dan Thoman - EPA Sara Taich - EPA Brian Grayer - EPA summer intern Phyllis Meyer - EPA Jerry Ackerman - ESAT contractor

Trustees Trustee representadves from the state will be present for oversight of the sampUng.

42

Table 4-5. Inorganic Target Analyte List (TAL) and Contract Required Quantitation Limits (CRQLs) for ILM05.2

Analyte

1. Aluminum 2. Antimony

3. Arsenic 4. Barium 5. Beryllium 6. Cadmium 7. Calcium

8. Chromium 9. Cobalt 10. Copper ll.h-on 12. Lead

13. Magnesium 14. Manganese

15. Mercury 16. Nickel 17. Potassium 18. Selenium

19. Silver 20. Sodium

21. Thallium 22. Vanadium

23. Zinc 24. Cyanide

ICP-AES CRQL for Water (pg/L)

200 60

10 200 5 5 • •

5000 10

50 . 25

IOO 10

5000 15

0.2 40

5000

35 10

5000 25 50 60 10

ICP-AES CRQL for Soil (mg/kg)

20 6

1 20 0.5 0.5

500 1

5 2.5

10 1

500 L5 0.1 4

500

3.5

. 1 500 2.5 5 6

2.5

ICP-MS CRQL for Water {\iglL)

—

2

1 10 1' 1 —

2

1

. 2 —

1 -1 -1 —

5 1 -

1 1 2

-

43

Table 4-6. Target Compound List (TCL) and Contract Required Quantitation Limits (CRQLs) For OLM04.3*

QUANTITATION LIMITS

VOLATILES 1. Dichlorodinuoromethane 2. Chloromethane 3. Vinyl Chloride 4. Bromomethane 5. Chloroethane 6. Trichlorofluoromethane 7. 1,1-Dichloroethene 8. 1,1,2-Trichloro-1,2,2-trifluoroethane 9. Acetone 10. Carbon Disulfide , 11. Methyl Acetate . 12. Methylene Chloride 13. Hans-1,2-Dichloroethene 14. Methyl tert-Butyl Ether 15. 1,1-Dichloroethane 16. cis-1,2-Dichloroethene 17. 2-Butanone 18. Chloroform 19, 1,1,1-Trichloroethane 20. Cyclohexane 21. Carbon Tetrachloride 22. Benzene 23. 1,2-Dichloroethane 24. Trichloroethene 25. Methylcyclohexane 26. 1,2-Dlchloropropane 27. Bromodichloromethane 28. cis-1,3-Dichlorppropene 29. 4-MethyI-2-pentanone 30. Toluene 31. trans-l,3-Dichloropropene 32. 1,1,2-Trichloroethane 33. Tetrachloroethene 34. 2-Hexanone 35. Dibromochloromethane 36. 1,2-Dibromoethane 37. Chlorobenzene 38. Ethylbenzene

Water (Jig/L)

10 10 10

. 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 ID 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 .

Low Soil (|ig«g)

10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 . 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10

Mod Cal.' (tig/L)

/ 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 10 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 10

0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 10

0.5 0.5 0,-5 0.5 0.5 0.5 10 0.5 0.5

SEMIVOLATILES 49. 50. 51. 52. 53. 54. 55. 56. 57. 58. 59. 60, 61. 62, 63. 64. 65. 66, 67, 68, 69. 70. 71. 72. 73. 74, 75, 76. 77. 78. 79. 80. 81, 82, 83, 84. 85, 86.

Benzaldehyde Phenol bis-(2-Chloroethyl)ether 2-Chlorophenol 2-Methylphenol 2,2'-oxybis (1-Chloropropane) Acetophenone 4-Methylphenol N-Nitroso-di-n -propylamine Hexachloroethane Nitrobenzene Isophorone 2-Nitrophenol 2,4-Dimethylphenol bis-(2-Chloroethoxy)methane 2,4-Dichlorophenol Naphthalene 4-Chloroaniline Hexachlorobutadiene Caprolactam 4-Chloro-3-methylphenol 2-Methyhiaphthalene Hexachlorocyclo-pentadiene 2,4,6-Trichlorophenol 2,4,5-Trichlorophenol l,r-Biphenyl 2-Chloronaphthalene 2-Nitroaniline Dimethylphthalate 2,6-Dinitrotoluene Acenaphthylene 3-Nitroaniline Acenaphthene 2,4-Dinitrophenol 4-Nitrophenol Dibenzofuran 2,4-Dinitrotoluene Diethylphthalate

Water (Ug/L)

10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10. 25 10 10 25 10 10 10 25 10 25 25 10 10

• 10

Low Soil (|ig«g)

330 330 330 330 330 330 330 330 330 . 330 330 330 330 330 330 330 330 330 330 330 330 330 330 330 830 330 330 830 330 330 330 830 330 830 830 330 330 330

-

SEMIVOLATILES 98. Carbazole 99. Di-n-butylphlhalate 100. Fluoranthene 101. Pyrene 102. Butylbenzylphthalate 103. 3,3'-Dichlorobenzidine 104. Benzo(a)anthracene 105, Chrysene 106, bis-(2-Ethylhexyl)phihalate 107, Di-n-octylphlhalate 108. Benzo(b)nuoranthene 109, Benzo(k)nuoranlhene 110, Benzo(a)pyrene 111, hideno( 1,2,3-cd)pyrene 112, Dibenz(a,h)anthracene 113. Benzo(g,h,i)perylene PESTICIDES/AROCLORS (PESTICIDES/PCBs) 114. alpha-BHC 115, bela-BHC 116, delta-BHC 117, gamma-BHC (Lindane) 118. Heptachlor 119. Aldrin 120. Heptachlor epoxide 121. Endosulfan 1 122, Dieldrin 123, 4,4'-DDE 124, Endrin 125, Endosulfan 11 126, 4,4'-DDD 127. Endosulfan sulfate 128. 4,4'-DDT 129. Methoxychlor 130, Endrin ketone 131, Endrin aldehyde 132, alpha-Chlordane 133, gamma-Chlordane

Water iliS/L)

10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10

0.05 0.05 0.05 0,05 0,05 0,05 0.05 0.05 0.10 0,10 0,10

' 0,10 0,10 0,10 0,10 0,50 0.10 0.10 0,05 0,05

Low Soil (lig/Kg)

330 330 330 330 330 330 330 330 330 330 330 330 330 330 330 330

1,7 1.7 1,7 1,7 1,7 1,7 1.7 1.7 3.3

. 3,3 3,3 3,3 3,3 3,3 3,3 17 3,3 3.3 1.7 1,7

Table 4-6 (continued). Target Compound List (TCL) and Contract Required Quantitation Limits (CRQLs) For OLM04.3*

QUANTITATION LIMITS

VOLATILES 39. Xylenes (Total) 40. Styrene 41. Bromoform 42. Isopropylbenzene 43. 1,1,2,2-Tetrachloroethane 44. 1,3-Dichlorobenzene 45. 1,4-Dichlorobenzene 46. 1,2-Dichlorobenzene 47. l,2-Dibromo-3-chloropropane 48. 1,2,4-Triclorobenzene

Water ((igO-)

10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10

Low Soil (|ig/Kg)

10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10 10

. 10

Mod Cal.' Levels (lig/L)

0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0.5 0,5 0,5 0,5 0,5

SEMIVOLATILES 87. Fluorene 88, 4-Chlorophenyl-phenyl elher 89, 4-Nitroanihne 90, 4,6-Dinitro-2-methylphenol 91, N-Nitrosodiphenylamine 92. 4-Bromophenyl-phenylether 93. Hexachlorobenzene 94. Atrazine 95. Pentachlorophenol 96. Phenanthrene 97. Anthracene

Water (ligfL)

10 10 25 25 10 10 10 10. 25 10 10

Low Soil

(|ig/Kg)

330 330 830 830 330 330 330 330 830

. 330 330

PESTICIDES/AROCLORS (PESTICIDES/PCBs) 134. Toxaphene 135. Aroclor-1016 136. Aroclor-1221 137. Aroclor-1232 138. Aroclor-1242 139, Aroclor-1248 140, Aroclor-1254 141, Aroclor-1260

Water (|ig/L)

5,0 1,0

. 2,0 1,0 1,0 1.0 1.0 1.0

Low Soil ((ig/Kg)

170 33 67 33 33 33 33 33 •

*For volatiles, quantitation limits for medium soils are approximately 130 times the quantitation, limits for low soils. For semivolatile medium soils, quantitation limits are approximately 30 times the quantitation limits for low soils.

' Modified quantitation limits are available under the Flexibility Clause.

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