Concentrations of Selected Radionuclides and Chemicals
in Fish, Sediment, and Water Collected from
the Putah Creek Near the
Former Laboratory for Energy-Related Health Research
Davis, CA
Prepared by:
Clinton Cox, PhD
USEPA-NAREL
540 South Morris Avenue
Montgomery, AL 36115-2601
Reviewed by:
Scott Telofski, PE
USEPA-NAREL
Prepared for:
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
1600 Clifton Road, NE
Atlanta, GA 30333
NAREL
31 March 1997
INTRODUCTION
The Laboratory for Energy-Related Health Research (LEHR) was a research facility located on the University of California-Davis campus from 1958 to 1988. The Department of Energy (DOE) and its predecessor, the Atomic Energy Commission (AEC), funded the operation of the LEHR primarily to research the long-term effects of low exposure doses of Ra-226 and Sr-90 in beagles. Today, the University of California-Davis operates the Institute of Toxicology and Environmental Health at the location of the former LEHR site.
In December 1995, The Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR) released a report entitled "Site Summary, Laboratory for Energy-Related Health Research, Davis, California." In this report, ATSDR recommended that "the fish in Putah Creek should be sampled." In January 1996, ATSDR asked NAREL to conduct a study of fish collected from Putah Creek which flows east about 250 ft from the southern boundary of the former LEHR site (see Figure 1).
BACKGROUND
During August 1996, NAREL in conjunction with ATSDR, USEPA Region 9, and other stakeholders authored sampling and analysis guidelines entitled "Sampling and Analysis Guidelines for Fish, Sediment, and Water Samples from the Putah Creek Adjacent to the Former Laboratory for Energy-Related Health Research, Davis, CA" with the final version dated August 24, 1996. These Guidelines are included herein as Appendix A. Within these Guidelines selected radionuclides, pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), and metals were identified for analysis. During the period from August 27, 1996 to September 12, 1996, USEPA Region 9 field personnel collected fish, sediment, and water samples from three locations downstream from the former LEHR site. Also, background samples were collected from one location upstream from the site. Table 1 shows the latitude and longitude for each sampling site, and Figure 1 shows the geographical locations of the sampling sites.
Table 1. Sampling Locations in Putah Creek Adjacent to the LEHR Site, Aug 27-Sep 12, 1996
|
Sampling Locations for Fish, Sediment , and Water |
||
|
Sampling Location |
Latitude |
Longitude |
|
1 |
N 38o 31' 2.0" |
W 121o 45' 22.1" |
|
2 |
N 38o 31' 1.6" |
W 121o 43' 58.0" |
|
3 |
N 38o 31' 0.7" |
W 121o 42' 46.8" |
|
4 (background) |
N 38o 31' 34.4" |
W 121o 48' 42.9" |
Figure 1. Map of LEHR Site and Putah Creek with Locations of the Four Sampling Sites
For the above sampling locations, the species and weights of fish collected are presented in Table 2. Putah Creek is a small creek with a limited fish population that is in close proximity to the former LEHR site. Because of the limited fish population, the large number of analyses requiring separate aliquots, and the low detection limits required, it was necessary to composite many of the fish samples to obtain an analytical sample large enough to perform all requested analyses. Even with compositing, it was not possible to perform all the requested analyses on some fish samples. Although it is preferable to composite only the same species of fish within a length (i.e., age) range, it was not possible to do so in this study for the reasons stated above. The fish species and composited samples with whole and fillet wet weights are shown in Table 2.
Table 2. Fish Collected from Putah Creek near the Former LEHR Facility, Aug 27-Sep 12, 1996
|
Location |
Fish Species (#) |
Whole Wet Weight (g) |
Fillet Wet Weight (g) |
|
1 |
Black Crappie (2) |
489 |
168 |
|
Bluegill (1) |
136 |
37 |
|
|
Large Mouth Bass (2) |
1122 |
421 |
|
|
Composite 1 (5) |
1747 |
626 |
|
|
Crayfish (10) |
413 |
38 |
|
|
Black Bullhead (4) |
1115 |
209 |
|
|
White Catfish (2) |
1492 |
262 |
|
|
Composite 2 (16) |
3020 |
509 |
|
|
2 |
Carp (1) |
1564 |
367 |
|
Black Bullhead (1) |
212 |
46 |
|
|
Composite (2) |
1776 |
413 |
|
|
Large Month Bass (1) |
650 |
188 |
|
|
3 |
Black Crappie (2) |
364 |
92 |
|
Large Mouth Bass (1) |
1234 |
362 |
|
|
Composite 1 (3) |
1598 |
454 |
|
|
Crayfish (9) |
289 |
26 |
|
|
Carp (1) |
1696 |
495 |
|
|
Composite 2 (10) |
1985 |
521 |
|
|
White Catfish (1) |
2624 |
670 |
|
|
4(background) |
Bluegill (78) |
1906 |
394 |
|
Green Sunfish (13) |
627 |
127 |
|
|
Large Month Bass (3) |
192 |
45 |
|
|
Crayfish (8) |
221 |
42 |
|
|
White Catfish (1) |
89 |
12 |
|
|
Composite (103) |
3035 |
620 |
METHODOLOGY
Fish, water, and sediment samples were collected and shipped under chain-of-custody following the above referenced Guidelines (see Appendix A and B). Samples were received, analyzed, and subsequent results reported following the above referenced Guidelines (see Appendix A), NAREL standard operating procedures (SOPs), and the NAREL Quality Assurance Plan (QAP). The definition of terms and acronyms used in the SOPs and the reporting of the results are located in Guidance for Assessing Chemical Contaminant Data for Use in Fish Advisories (8).
RESULTS
The results for this study are reported in the following tables. These tables were generated from Data Quality Packages (DQPs) produced from the radiological and chemical analyses performed for this study. The DQPs (9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17) noted only minor quality assurance exceptions, which did not affect the reported data values, e.g., not enough sample to perform analysis. For specific exceptions, qualifiers, and QA/QC results, see DQP references 9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 15, 16, 17. [NOTE: These DQPs can be obtained from NAREL by contacting Dr. John Griggs at 334-270-3450.] General information regarding gamma spectrometry and gross alpha/beta results is presented in Appendix C. Tables 3 through 5 present the analytical results for the water samples. Tables 6 through 8 present the analytical results for the sediment samples. Tables 9 through 11 present the analytical results for the fish samples.
Table 3. Radiological Results for Water Collected from Putah Creek near the Former LEHR Facility
|
|
Site #1 |
Site #2 |
Site #3 |
Site #4 |
||
|
Gross Alpha |
2.57±1.93 |
3.18±2.19 |
5.71±2.75 |
NA |
4.57±2.54 |
1.76±1.73 |
|
Gross Beta |
3.63±2.20 |
5.29±2.46 |
4.41±2.39 |
NA |
6.87±2.67 |
2.76±2.22 |
|
U-238 |
0.2709±0.0699 |
NA |
0.3430±0.0798 |
0.3819±0.0813 |
0.3737±0.0698 |
0.2737±0.0678 |
|
U-234 |
0.6306±0.1101 |
NA |
0.5139±0.0984 |
0.6414±0.1075 |
0.6465±0.0937 |
0.6238±0.1055 |
|
Th-230 |
0.0414±0.0289 |
NA |
0.0624±0.0340 |
0.0456±0.0326 |
0.0480±0.0267 |
0.0411±0.0282 |
|
Ra-226 () |
77.5 |
74.3 |
78.0 |
NA |
79.2 |
85.6 |
|
Ra-226 |
0.26±0.03 |
0.22±0.05 |
0.07±0.01 |
NA |
0.09±0.02 |
0.11±0.02 |
|
U-235 |
0.0463±0.0310 |
ND |
0.0423±0.0309 |
0.0209±0.0221 |
0.0835±0.0350 |
0.0599±0.0361 |
|
Th-227 |
0.0095±0.0291 |
NA |
0.0090±0.0275 |
0.0639±0.0635 |
0.0123±0.0214 |
0.0364±0.0364 |
|
Th-232 |
0.0238±0.0238 |
NA |
0.0101±0.0156 |
0.0118±0.0182 |
0.0455±0.0268 |
0.0103±0.0158 |
|
Ra-228 () |
17.0 |
17.1 |
16.8 |
NA |
16.2 |
24.0 |
|
Ra-228 |
2.9±1.0 |
1.0±1.0 |
0.35±0.75 |
NA |
-0.12±0.78 |
0.88±0.73 |
|
Th-228 |
0.0202±0.0680 |
NA |
0.0240±0.0651 |
0.0284±0.0718 |
0.0231±0.0555 |
-0.0330±0.0518 |
|
Tl-208 |
ND |
ND |
1.67±3.06 |
NA |
ND |
ND |
|
Pu-238 |
0.0072±0.0131 |
NA |
0.0286±0.0317 |
-0.0077±0.0292 |
0.0640±0.0564 |
0.0263±0.0358 |
|
Pu-239/240 |
-0.0012±0.0024 |
NA |
0.00136±0.0090 |
0.0124±0.0164 |
0.0021±0.0137 |
0.0000±0.0101 |
|
K-40 |
51.6 |
54.9 |
51.6 |
NA |
51.9 |
33.2±62.8 |
|
C-14 |
-80±82 |
-72±82 |
-96±81 |
NA |
-77±82 |
NA |
|
Ba-140 |
99.9 |
101 |
96.2 |
NA |
99.0 |
161 |
|
Co-60 |
5.84 |
5.28 |
6.43 |
NA |
5.62 |
8.44 |
|
Cs-137 |
4.52 |
4.31 |
4.16 |
NA |
4.48 |
6.58 |
|
I-131 |
79.7 |
79.0 |
79.4 |
NA |
80.2 |
101 |
|
Sr-89 |
-3.01±4.76 |
NA |
3.78±4.80 |
NA |
2.08±4.80 |
1.90±4.41* |
|
Sr-90 |
0.571±0.717 |
NA |
-0.400±0.755 |
NA |
0.0112±0.757 |
-0.134±0.667* |
() -- measured by gamma spectrometry with a corresponding radiochemical analysis. ND -- not detected.
NA -- not available or not analyzed. X -- designates a replicate analysis.
* Replicate analysis: Sr-89, 7.47±4.96 pCi/L; Sr-90, -0.750±0.740 pCi/L.
Note: Values in this table were extracted from LEHR Data Quality Packages (9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 17). "Less than value" is equal to the Minimum Detectable Concentration (MDC); see Appendix C.
Table 4. Inorganic Results For Water Collected From Putah Creek Near The Former LEHR Facility
|
|
|
Site #1 |
Site #2 |
Site #3 |
Site #4 |
|
|
Antimony |
7440-36-0 |
2.48B |
4.43B |
2.24B |
2.52B |
1.94B |
|
Arsenic |
7440-38-2 |
3.08B |
2.03B |
2.29B |
3.08B |
1.31B |
|
Barium |
7440-39-3 |
190.0B |
260.0B |
530.0B |
570.0B |
400.0B |
|
Cadmium |
7440-43-9 |
0.36 |
0.36 |
0.36 |
0.36 |
0.36 |
|
Chromium |
7440-47-3 |
60.0B |
60.0B |
30.0B |
50.0B |
30.0B |
|
Cobalt |
7440-48-4 |
2.5 |
2.5 |
2.5 |
2.6B |
2.5 |
|
Lead |
7439-92-1 |
3.02 |
1.57B |
1.26 |
1.52B |
1.26 |
|
Mercury |
7439-97-6 |
0.05 |
0.05 |
0.05 |
0.05 |
0.05 |
|
Nickel |
7440-02-0 |
7.1B |
8.07B |
5.5 |
17.8B |
5.5 |
|
Selenium |
7782-49-2 |
1.07 |
1.07 |
1.07 |
1.07 |
1.07 |
|
Silver |
7440-22-4 |
0.18 |
0.18 |
0.18 |
0.18 |
0.21B |
|
Thallium |
7440-28-0 |
0.80 |
0.80 |
2.01B |
0.80 |
0.80 |
|
Vanadium |
7440-62-2 |
7.8B |
7.5B |
7.2B |
12.5B |
6.1B |
|
Zinc |
7440-66-6 |
70.0 |
80.0 |
60.0 |
70.0 |
60.0 |
B
The value is less than the Reporting Limit but greater than or equal to the Instrument Detection Limit (IDL).X
The values in the second column are from a replicate analysis.Note: The "less than value" is the IDL, i.e., analyte was analyzed for but not detected. Values in this table were extracted from LEHR Data Quality Packages (15, 17).
Table 5. Organic Results For Water Collected From Putah Creek Near The Former LEHR Facility
|
|
|
Site #1 |
Site #2 |
Site #3 |
Site #4 |
|
Chlordane (Total) |
57-74-9 |
0.05 |
0.05 |
0.05 |
0.05 |
|
4,4"-DDT |
50-29-3 |
0.10 |
0.10 |
0.10 |
0.10 |
|
Dicofol |
115-32-2 |
0.20 |
0.20 |
0.20 |
0.20 |
|
Dieldrin |
60-57-1 |
0.10 |
0.10 |
0.10 |
0.10 |
|
Endosulfan I |
959-98-8 |
0.05 |
0.05 |
0.05 |
0.05 |
|
Endosulfan II |
33213-65-9 |
0.10 |
0.10 |
0.10 |
0.10 |
|
Endrin |
72-20-8 |
0.10 |
0.10 |
0.10 |
0.10 |
|
Heptachlor Epoxide |
1024-57-3 |
0.05 |
0.05 |
0.05 |
0.05 |
|
Hexachlorobenzene |
118-74-1 |
0.05 |
0.05 |
0.05 |
0.05 |
|
Lindane |
58-89-9 |
0.05 |
0.05 |
0.05 |
0.05 |
|
Toxaphene |
8001-35-2 |
5.0 |
5.0 |
5.0 |
5.0 |
|
Aroclor 1016 |
12674-11-2 |
1.0 |
1.0 |
1.0 |
1.0 |
|
Aroclor 1221 |
11104-28-2 |
2.0 |
2.0 |
2.0 |
2.0 |
|
Aroclor 1232 |
11141-16-5 |
1.0 |
1.0 |
1.0 |
1.0 |
|
Aroclor 1242 |
53469-21-9 |
1.0 |
1.0 |
1.0 |
1.0 |
|
Aroclor 1248 |
12672-29-6 |
1.0 |
1.0 |
1.0 |
1.0 |
|
Aroclor 1254 |
11097-69-1 |
1.0 |
1.0 |
1.0 |
1.0 |
|
Aroclor 1260 |
11096-82-5 |
1.0 |
1.0 |
1.0 |
1.0 |
Note: The "less than value" is the Reporting Limit, i.e., analyte was analyzed for but not detected. Values in this table were extracted from LEHR Data Quality Packages (16, 17).
Table 6. Radiological Results for Sediment Collected from Putah Creek near the Former LEHR Facility
|
|
Site #1 |
Site #2 |
Site #3 |
Site #4 |
||
|
Gross Alpha |
7.17±5.25 |
5.91±5.01 |
8.00±5.21 |
10.2±5.70 |
7.42±5.53 |
NA |
|
Gross Beta |
14.8±3.31 |
13.4±3.16 |
17.1±3.38 |
12.6±3.06 |
12.4±3.19 |
NA |
|
U-238 |
0.343±0.0779 |
0.435±0.0904 |
0.631±0.102 |
0.459±0.0727 |
0.523±0.0971 |
NA |
|
Th-234 |
ND |
NA |
0.399±0.150 |
ND |
ND |
ND |
|
U-234 |
0.555±0.101 |
0.544±0.101 |
0.627±0.100 |
0.565±0.0810 |
0.431±0.088 |
NA |
|
Th-230 |
0.369±0.0707 |
0.387±0.0682 |
0.576±0.0843 |
0.488±0.0753 |
0.549±0.0863 |
NA |
|
Ra-226 () |
0.698±0.145 |
NA |
1.30±0.223 |
0.860±0.207 |
1.06±0.216 |
1.24±0.201 |
|
Ra-226 |
0.43±0.04 |
0.41±0.03 |
0.92±0.04 |
0.59±0.03 |
0.71±0.04 |
NA |
|
Pb-214 |
0.314±0.0158 |
NA |
0.481±0.0214 |
0.385±0.0198 |
0.484±0.0219 |
0.561±0.0209 |
|
Bi-214 |
0.286±0.0169 |
NA |
0.458±0.0230 |
0.369±0.0212 |
0.445±0.0238 |
0.518±0.0219 |
|
U-235 |
0.0285±0.0275 |
0.0684±0.0400 |
0.0806±0.0400 |
0.0483±0.0250 |
0.0698±0.0392 |
0.0755±0.0122 |
|
U-235 () |
ND |
NA |
0.0799±0.0134 |
ND |
ND |
ND |
|
Th-227 |
0.0183±0.0254 |
0.0414±0.0308 |
0.0256±0.0248 |
0.0207±0.0207 |
0.0502±0.0366 |
NA |
|
Ra-223 |
ND |
NA |
0.0681±0.0448 |
ND |
ND |
ND |
|
Th-232 |
0.290±0.0624 |
0.326±0.0624 |
0.587±0.0851 |
0.545±0.0795 |
0.477±0.0802 |
NA |
|
Ra-228 () |
0.296±0.0210 |
NA |
0.594±0.0316 |
0.420±0.0296 |
0.483±0.0313 |
0.532±0.0295 |
|
Ra-228 |
1.1±0.56 |
0.99±0.52 |
1.7±0.54 |
0.94±0.56 |
0.99±0.65 |
NA |
|
Th-228 |
0.314±0.0654 |
0.332±0.0638 |
0.676±0.0919 |
0.414±0.0699 |
0.510±0.0831 |
NA |
|
Ra-224 |
0.223±0.155 |
NA |
0.470±0.218 |
0.276±0.219 |
0.477±0.230 |
0.578±0.207 |
|
Pb-212 |
0.304±0.0165 |
NA |
0.675±0.0236 |
0.432±0.0202 |
0.562±0.0230 |
0.574±0.0217 |
|
Bi-212 |
0.349±0.0901 |
NA |
0.627±0.126 |
0.488±0.105 |
0.591±0.121 |
0.501±0.117 |
|
Tl-208 |
0.113±0.00936 |
NA |
0.216±0.0127 |
0.154±0.0117 |
0.173±0.0128 |
0.199±0.0127 |
|
Pu-238 |
-0.00486±0.0335 |
-0.00272±0.0265 |
0.00475±0.0369 |
0.0000±0.0075 |
0.0224±0.0416 |
NA |
|
Pu-239/240 |
0.0227±0.0215 |
0.00818±0.0147 |
0.00317±0.0098 |
0.00606±0.0084 |
0.00203±0.0132 |
NA |
|
K-40 |
8.35±0.193 |
NA |
13.7±0.271 |
9.83±0.253 |
9.87±0.266 |
9.92±0.239 |
|
Cs-137 |
0.0140±0.0057 |
NA |
0.0167 |
0.0245±0.0079 |
0.0186 |
0.0179 |
|
Ba-140 |
0.308 |
NA |
0.360 |
0.337 |
0.405 |
3.64 |
|
Co-60 |
0.0171 |
NA |
0.0211 |
0.0194 |
0.0224 |
0.0201 |
|
I-131 |
0.250 |
NA |
0.292 |
0.246 |
0.330 |
11.6 |
|
Sr-89 |
6.38±4.78+ |
NA |
1.29±3.76 |
1.70±4.14 |
0.673±4.01 |
2.35±3.84 |
|
Sr-90 |
-0.662±0.659 |
NA |
-0.128±0.561 |
-0.329±0.656 |
0.0351±0.612 |
0.187±0.561 |
Note: Values in this table were extracted from LEHR Data Quality Packages (9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 17). "Less than value" is equal to the Minimum Detectable Concentration (MDC); see Appendix C. -- measured by gamma spectrometry. ND - not detected. NA - not analyzed. + -- less than MDC; see Appendix C. X - designates replicate analysis.
Table 7. Inorganic Results for Sediment Collected from Putah Creek near the Former LEHR Facility
|
Analyte |
CAS Number |
Site #1 |
Site #2 |
Site #3 |
Site #4 |
||
|
Antimony |
7440-36-0 |
0.64B |
0.54B |
1.11B |
0.92B |
1.36 |
NA |
|
Arsenic |
7440-38-2 |
6.19 |
NA |
10.12 |
5.92 |
12.09 |
12.35 |
|
Barium |
7440-39-3 |
49.36 |
57.22B |
98.05B |
82.77B |
127.01B |
NA |
|
Cadmium |
7440-43-9 |
0.09 |
NA |
0.09 |
0.10 |
0.48 |
0.19B |
|
Chromium |
7440-47-3 |
239.94 |
292.32 |
89.79 |
220.18 |
173.32 |
NA |
|
Cobalt |
7440-48-4 |
20.9 |
20.91 |
15.0 |
16.2 |
21.3 |
NA |
|
Lead |
7439-92-1 |
7.22 |
NA |
9.93 |
9.06 |
9.27 |
9.52 |
|
Mercury |
7439-97-6 |
0.15 |
0.18 |
0.03 |
0.03 |
0.03 |
NA |
|
Nickel |
7440-02-0 |
248 |
247.69 |
65.1 |
175 |
177 |
NA |
|
Selenium |
7782-49-2 |
0.29B |
NA |
0.31B |
0.37B |
0.40B |
0.33B |
|
Silver |
7440-22-4 |
0.42 |
NA |
0.07B |
0.25B |
0.11B |
0.05B |
|
Thallium |
7440-28-0 |
0.21 |
NA |
0.23B |
0.22 |
0.22B |
0.22B |
|
Vanadium |
7440-62-2 |
42.00 |
42.02 |
56.9 |
43.1 |
59.3 |
NA |
|
Zinc |
7440-66-6 |
102.45 |
150.32 |
162.04 |
116.99 |
105.32 |
NA |
B
The value is less than the Reporting Limit but greater than or equal to the Instrument Detection Limit (IDL).X
The values in the second column are from a replicate analysis. NA -- not analyzed.Note: Units are on a dry basis. The "less than value" is the IDL, i.e., analyte was analyzed for but not detected. Values in this table were extracted from LEHR Data Quality Packages (15, 17).
Table 8. Organic Results for Sediment Collected from Putah Creek near the Former LEHR Facility
|
Analyte |
CAS Number |
Site #1 |
Site #2 |
Site #3 |
Site #4 |
|
Chlordane (Total) |
57-74-9 |
2.2 |
2.2 |
2.3 |
2.2 |
|
4,4"-DDT |
50-29-3 |
4.3 |
4.2 |
4.5 |
4.4 |
|
Dicofol |
115-32-2 |
8.6 |
8.4 |
9.0 |
8.7 |
|
Dieldrin |
60-57-1 |
4.3 |
4.2 |
4.5 |
4.4 |
|
Endosulfan I |
959-98-8 |
2.2 |
2.2 |
2.3 |
2.2 |
|
Endosulfan II |
33213-65-9 |
4.3 |
4.2 |
4.5 |
4.4 |
|
Endrin |
72-20-8 |
4.3 |
4.2 |
4.5 |
4.4 |
|
Heptachlor Epoxide |
1024-57-3 |
2.2 |
2.2 |
2.3 |
2.2 |
|
Hexachlorobenzene |
118-74-1 |
2.2 |
2.2 |
2.3 |
2.2 |
|
Lindane |
58-89-9 |
2.2 |
2.2 |
2.3 |
2.2 |
|
Toxaphene |
8001-35-2 |
220 |
220 |
230 |
220 |
|
Aroclor 1016 |
12674-11-2 |
43 |
42 |
45 |
43 |
|
Aroclor 1221 |
11104-28-2 |
86 |
84 |
92 |
88 |
|
Aroclor 1232 |
11141-16-5 |
43 |
42 |
45 |
43 |
|
Aroclor 1242 |
53469-21-9 |
43 |
42 |
45 |
43 |
|
Aroclor 1248 |
12672-29-6 |
43 |
42 |
45 |
43 |
|
Aroclor 1254 |
11097-69-1 |
43 |
42 |
45 |
43 |
|
Aroclor 1260 |
11096-82-5 |
43 |
42 |
45 |
43 |
Note: Units are on a dry basis. The "less than value" is the Reporting Limit, i.e., analyte was analyzed for but not detected. Values in this table were extracted from LEHR Data Quality Packages (16, 17).
Table 9. Radiological Results for Fish Collected from Putah Creek near the Former LEHR Facility
|
|
Site #1, Comp 1/Comp 1/Comp 2 |
Site #2, Comp/LMB |
Site #3, Comp 1, Comp 2, WCF |
Site #4, Comp |
|||||
|
Gross Alpha |
0.0933±0.0792 |
NA |
0.0917±0.0859 |
0.00825±0.0547 |
NA |
0.000±0.0580 |
-0.00285±0.0403 |
0.0207±0.0408 |
0.0476±0.0732 |
|
Gross Beta |
3.36±0.142 |
NA |
3.13±0.143 |
3.12±0.135 |
NA |
3.44±0.149 |
3.13±0.135 |
3.29±0.128 |
3.14±0.165 |
|
U-238 |
0.000524±0.000349 |
NA |
0.00122±0.000521 |
0.000646±0.000421 |
0.000540±0.000473 |
0.000863±0.000490 |
0.000876±0.000471 |
0.000102±0.000187 |
0.00131±0.000528 |
|
Th-234 |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
|
U-234 |
0.000475±0.000353 |
NA |
0.00110±0.000500 |
0.000855±0.000475 |
0.000731±0.000546 |
0.00177±0.000639 |
0.00170±0.000636 |
0.000408±.0.000314 |
0.00150±0.000570 |
|
Th-230 |
0.000099±0.000114 |
NA |
0.00177±0.000554 |
0.000812±0.000334 |
0.000222±0.000216 |
0.000711±0.000379 |
0.000562±0.000308 |
0.000546±0.000368 |
0.00113±0.000674 |
|
Ra-226 () |
0.0907 |
0.0891 |
0.198 |
0.181 |
0.279 |
0.354 |
0.108 |
0.0799 |
0.0910 |
|
Ra-226 |
0.03±0.01 |
NA |
0.03±0.01 |
0.07±0.01 |
0.03±0.01 |
-0.01±0.01 |
0.01±0.01 |
0.04±0.01* |
0.02±0.01 |
|
Pb-214 |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
|
Bi-214 |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
|
U-235 |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
|
U-235 () |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
|
Th-227 |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
|
Ra-223 |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
|
Th-232 |
0.000154±0.000149 |
NA |
0.00475±0.000907 |
0.00410±0.000753 |
0.000±0.000110 |
0.000152±0.000211 |
0.000288±0.000217 |
-0.0000494±0.000262 |
0.000354±0.000391 |
|
Ra-228 () |
0.0203 |
0.0317 |
0.0506 |
0.0469 |
0.0619 |
0.0685 |
0.0340 |
0.0289 |
0.0223 |
|
Ra-228 |
0.18±0.15 |
NA |
0.07±0.15 |
0.06±0.13 |
0.10±0.18 |
0.19±0.18 |
0.16±0.17 |
0.40±0.20 |
0.20±0.19 |
|
Th-228 |
-0.00195±0.000263 |
NA |
0.00348±0.00102 |
0.00351±0.000902 |
-0.00290±0.000538 |
-0.000510±0.000633 |
0.000679±0.000414 |
-0.000368±0.000639 |
0.000607±0.00121 |
|
Ra-224 |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
|
Pb-212 |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
0.0209±0.0216 |
ND |
ND |
ND |
|
Bi-212 |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
|
Tl-208 |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
|
Pu-238 |
-0.000387±0.000415 |
0.0000362±0.000114 |
-0.000169±0.000313 |
0.0000107±0.000126 |
NA |
0.0000516±0.000103 |
0.000387±0.000485 |
0.000192±0.000339 |
0.000215±0.000625 |
|
Pu-239/240 |
0.000±0.000141 |
0.0000362±0.000114 |
0.0000563±0.000172 |
0.0000321±0.0000641 |
NA |
0.0000861±0.000150 |
0.0000738±0.000165 |
0.000±0.000 |
-0.0000537±0.0000760 |
|
K-40 |
3.11±0.101 |
3.04±0.147 |
2.54±0.224 |
2.84±0.174 |
3.41±0.229 |
2.94±0.211 |
2.99±0.166 |
3.01±0.137 |
2.62±0.0948 |
|
C-14 |
4.9±1.8 |
NA |
5.4±1.7 |
3.9±1.9 |
2.4±2.1 |
3.6±2.8 |
4.8±1.6 |
3.8±1.6* |
20±14 |
|
Cs-137 |
0.00538 |
0.00739 |
0.0157 |
0.0132 |
0.0175 |
0.0192 |
0.00929 |
0.00657 |
0.00571 |
|
Ba-140 |
0.251 |
0.594 |
0.565 |
1.13 |
0.268 |
0.861 |
0.356 |
0.0907 |
0.398 |
|
Co-60 |
0.00665 |
0.0100 |
0.0129 |
0.0151 |
0.0221 |
0.0248 |
0.0131 |
0.0106 |
0.00802 |
|
Hg-203 |
0.0137±0.00431 |
0.0109±0.0054 |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
ND |
|
I-131 |
0.298 |
0.989 |
0.711 |
2.45 |
0.188 |
1.08 |
0.387 |
0.0550 |
0.575 |
|
Sr-89 |
0.0824±0.0691+ |
0.0561±0.0954 |
-0.00365±0.0625 |
-0.0208±0.0477 |
NA |
0.0369±0.0664 |
-0.0123±0.0634 |
0.000216±0.0537 |
-0.0537±0.113 |
|
Sr-90 |
-0.00903±0.00954 |
-0.00366±0.0133 |
0.00217±0.0103 |
0.00618±0.00686 |
NA |
-0.00717±0.0111 |
0.00417±0.0107 |
0.00300±0.00882 |
0.0139±0.0163 |
-- measured by gamma spectrometry with a corresponding radiochemical analysis. ND -- not detected. NA -- not analyzed. + -- less than Minimum Detectable Concentration (MDC); see Appendix C. X -- designates a
replicate analysis. *-- Replicate analysis, C-14, 15±1.8; Ra-226, 0.03±0.01; Ra-228, 0.64±0.28. Note: Values in this table were extracted from LEHR Data Quality Packages (9, 10, 11, 12, 13, 14, 17). "Less than value" is equal to the MDC; see Appendix C.
Table 10. Inorganic Results for Fish Collected from Putah Creek near the Former LEHR Facility
|
|
|
Site #1, Comp 1/2 |
Site #2, LMB/Comp |
Site #3, WCF/WCF/Comp 1/Comp 2 |
Site #4, Comp |
|||||
|
Antimony |
7440-36-0 |
0.38B |
0.49B |
0.70 |
0.44B |
0.75 |
0.52 |
0.53 |
0.41B |
0.84 |
|
Arsenic |
7440-38-2 |
0.06 |
0.06 |
0.06 |
0.06 |
0.06 |
0.06 |
0.06 |
0.11B |
0.06 |
|
Barium |
7440-39-3 |
12.0 |
12.0 |
12.0 |
12.0 |
12.0 |
12.0 |
12.0 |
12.0 |
12.0 |
|
Cadmium |
7440-43-9 |
0.02 |
0.02 |
0.02 |
0.02 |
0.02 |
0.02 |
0.02 |
0.02 |
0.02 |
|
Chromium |
7440-47-3 |
9.10 |
9.10 |
9.10 |
9.10 |
9.10 |
9.10 |
9.10 |
9.10 |
9.10 |
|
Cobalt |
7440-48-4 |
0.25 |
0.25 |
0.45 |
0.25 |
0.25 |
0.25 |
0.25 |
0.29B |
0.25 |
|
Lead |
7439-92-1 |
0.28B |
1.06 |
0.20B |
0.17B |
0.17B |
0.08 |
0.24B |
0.19B |
0.08 |
|
Mercury |
7439-97-6 |
0.69 |
0.15 |
0.25 |
0.16 |
0.48 |
0.46 |
0.24 |
0.13 |
0.13 |
|
Nickel |
7440-02-0 |
0.55 |
0.90B |
0.55 |
0.55 |
0.55 |
0.55 |
0.55 |
0.55 |
0.55 |
|
Selenium |
7782-49-2 |
0.27B |
0.08 |
0.25B |
0.25B |
0.08 |
0.08 |
0.23B |
0.36B |
0.33B |
|
Silver |
7440-22-4 |
0.04B |
0.03B |
0.65 |
0.02B |
0.03B |
0.03B |
0.01B |
0.01B |
0.01B |
|
Thallium |
7440-28-0 |
0.06 |
0.06 |
0.06 |
0.06 |
0.12B |
0.10B |
0.06 |
0.06 |
0.06 |
|
Vanadium |
7440-62-2 |
0.17 |
0.17 |
0.17 |
0.17 |
0.17 |
0.17 |
0.17 |
0.17 |
0.17 |
|
Zinc |
7440-66-6 |
9.80 |
8.70 |
12.0 |
13.4 |
6.10 |
11.6 |
8.70 |
15.3 |
17.60 |
B
The value is less than the Reporting Limit but greater than or equal to the Instrument Detection Limit (IDL).X
The values in the second column are from a replicate analysis.Note: The "less than value" is the IDL, i.e., analyte was analyzed for but not detected. Values in this table were extracted
from LEHR Data Quality Packages (15, 17).
Table 11. Organic Results for Fish Collected from Putah Creek near the Former LEHR Facility
|
|
|
Site #1, Comp 1/2 LEHR96.05987/8 |
Site #2, LMB/Comp |
Site #3, WCF/ Comp 1/Comp 2 |
Site #4, Comp |
||||
|
Chlordane (Total) |
57-74-9 |
5.1 |
5.1 |
5.1 |
5.1 |
5.1 |
5.1 |
5.1 |
5.1 |
|
4,4"-DDT |
50-29-3 |
10.0 |
10.0 |
10.0 |
10.0 |
20.0 |
10.0 |
10.0 |
10.0 |
|
Dicofol |
115-32-2 |
20.0 |
20.0 |
20.0 |
20.0 |
20.0 |
20.0 |
20.0 |
20.0 |
|
Dieldrin |
60-57-1 |
10.0 |
10.0 |
10.0 |
10.0 |
10.0 |
10.0 |
10.0 |
10.0 |
|
Endosulfan I |
959-98-8 |
5.0 |
5.0 |
5.0 |
5.0 |
5.1 |
5.0 |
5.0 |
5.0 |
|
Endosulfan II |
33213-65-9 |
10.0 |
10.0 |
10.0 |
10.0 |
10.0 |
10.0 |
10.0 |
10.0 |
|
Endrin |
72-20-8 |
10.0 |
10.0 |
10.0 |
10.0 |
10.0 |
10.0 |
10.0 |
10.0 |
|
Heptachlor Epoxide |
1024-57-3 |
5.1 |
5.1 |
5.1 |
5.1 |
5.1 |
5.1 |
5.1 |
5.1 |
|
Hexachlorobenzene |
118-74-1 |
5.1 |
5.1 |
5.1 |
5.1 |
5.1 |
5.1 |
5.1 |
5.1 |
|
Lindane |
58-89-9 |
5.1 |
5.1 |
5.1 |
5.1 |
5.1 |
5.1 |
5.1 |
5.1 |
|
Toxaphene |
8001-35-2 |
510 |
510 |
510 |
510 |
510 |
510 |
510 |
510 |
|
Aroclor 1016 |
12674-11-2 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
|
Aroclor 1221 |
11104-28-2 |
200 |
200 |
200 |
200 |
200 |
200 |
200 |
200 |
|
Aroclor 1232 |
11141-16-5 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
|
Aroclor 1242 |
53469-21-9 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
|
Aroclor 1248 |
12672-29-6 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
|
Aroclor 1254 |
11097-69-1 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
|
Aroclor 1260 |
11096-82-5 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
100 |
Note: The "less than value" is the Reporting Limit, i.e., analyte was analyzed for but not detected. Values in
this table were extracted from LEHR Data Quality Packages (16, 17).
DISCUSSION OF RESULTS
In Table 3, radionuclide concentrations for water samples collected from Putah Creek down-stream from the LEHR are presented. When compared to the radionuclide concentrations for the background location (Site #4), the radionuclide concentrations for the downstream sample locations are not appreciably greater than those for the background location. Also, when the radionuclide concentrations for downstream and the background location are compared to relevant standards and guidelines presented in Table 12 below, the radionuclide concentrations for the samples are not greater than the standards and guidelines.
Table 12. Relevant Standards and Guidelines for Acceptable Radionuclide Concentrations in Water
|
Analyte |
USEPA Drinking Water Standards (1) |
Other Standards and Guidelines |
|
Gross Alpha |
15 pCi/L |
|
|
Gross Beta |
30 pCi/L |
|
|
U-238 |
30 pCi/L (7 pCi/L) (total U)+ |
|
|
U-234 |
30pCi/L (7 pCi/L) (total U)+ |
|
|
Th-230 |
|
7000 pCi/L (2) |
|
Ra-226 |
20 pCi/L |
|
|
U-235 |
30 pCi/L (7 pCi/L) (total U)+ |
|
|
Th-227 |
|
|
|
Th-232 |
|
2000 pCi/L (2) |
|
Ra-228 |
20 pCi/L |
|
|
Th-228 |
|
2000 pCi/L (2) |
|
Tl-208 |
|
|
|
Pu-238 (soluble) |
|
5 pCi/L (2) |
|
Pu-239/240 (soluble) each |
|
5 pCi/L (2) |
|
K-40 |
|
|
|
C-14 |
|
|
|
Ba-140 |
90 pCi/L |
|
|
Co-60 |
100 pCi/L |
|
|
Cs-137 |
200 pCi/L |
|
|
I-131 |
3 pCi/L |
|
|
Sr 89/90 |
8 pCi/L |
|
+
In the 1991 USEPA Proposed Drinking Water Regulations for Radionuclides, the Minimum Concentration Limit (MCL) allowed for total U is 20 g/L which is equivalent to 7 pCi/L; however, in Figure 2 (of the proposed regulations) to determine compliance, the total U MCL is 30 pCi/L.In Table 4, metal concentrations for water samples collected from Putah Creek downstream from the LEHR are presented. When compared to the metal concentrations for the background location (Site #4), metal concentrations for the downstream sample locations are not appreciably greater than those for the background location except for lead at Site #1, 3.02 ppb compared to 1.26 ppb. However, when the metal concentrations for downstream and the background location are compared to relevant standards and guidelines presented in Table 13, the metal concentrations for the samples are not greater than the standards and/or guidelines including the comparison action level for lead, 3.02 ppb compared to 15 ppb.
Table 13. Relevant Standards and Guidelines for Acceptable Metal Concentrations in Water
|
Analyte |
CAS Number |
USEPA Drinking Water Standard (1) |
Other Standards and Guidelines |
|
Antimony |
7440-36-0 |
6 ppb |
|
|
Arsenic |
7440-38-2 |
50 ppb |
|
|
Barium |
7440-39-3 |
2000 ppb |
|
|
Cadmium |
7440-43-9 |
5 ppb |
|
|
Chromium |
7440-47-3 |
100 ppb |
|
|
Cobalt |
7440-48-4 |
|
|
|
Lead |
7439-92-1 |
15 ppb (action level) |
|
|
Mercury |
7439-97-6 |
2 ppb |
|
|
Nickel |
7440-02-0 |
|
100 ppb (3) |
|
Selenium |
7782-49-2 |
50 ppb |
|
|
Silver |
7440-22-4 |
|
50 ppb (4) |
|
Thallium |
7440-28-0 |
2 ppb |
|
|
Vanadium |
7440-62-2 |
|
|
|
Zinc |
7440-66-6 |
5000 ppb |
|
In Table 5, organic concentrations for water samples collected from Putah Creek downstream from the LEHR are presented. No concentrations were detected above the Reporting Limit for all analytes at all sample locations. In addition, the organic concentrations for downstream and the background locations are not greater than the relevant standards and guidelines presented in Table 14 below. [Note: The Reporting Limits for 4,4"-DDT, Endosulfan II, and total PCBs are not adequate to determine if concentrations are below respective standards and/or guidelines.]
Table 14. Relevant Standards and Guidelines for Acceptable Organic Concentrations in Water
|
Analyte |
CAS Number |
USEPA Drinking Water Standard (1) |
Other Standards and Guidelines |
|
Chlordane (Total) |
57-74-9 |
2 ppb |
|
|
4,4"-DDT |
50-29-3 |
|
0.59 ppt (5) |
|
Dicofol |
115-32-2 |
|
|
|
Dieldrin |
60-57-1 |
|
|
|
Endosulfan I (total) |
959-98-8 |
|
56 ppt (6) |
|
Endosulfan II (total) |
33213-65-9 |
|
56 ppt (6) |
|
Endrin |
72-20-8 |
2 ppb |
|
|
Heptachlor Epoxide |
1024-57-3 |
0.2 ppb |
|
|
Hexachlorobenzene |
118-74-1 |
1 ppb |
|
|
Lindane |
58-89-9 |
0.2 ppb |
|
|
Toxaphene |
8001-35-2 |
3 ppb |
|
|
PCBs (total aroclors) |
|
0.5 ppb |
|
In Table 6, radionuclide concentrations for sediment samples collected from Putah Creek down-stream from the LEHR are presented. When compared to the radionuclide concentrations for the background location (Site #4), radionuclide concentrations for the downstream sample locations are not appreciably greater than those for the background location except for Th-234, Ra-226, Pb-212 and K-40 at Site #2 and Cs-137 at Site #1 and #3. However, these slightly elevated concentrations when compared to respective typical radionuclide concentrations in soil are not appreciably different. The typical soil concentrations (7) for Th-234, Ra-226, Pb-212, K-40, and Cs-137 are 1.0 (based on U-238), 1.0, 1.0 (based on Th-228), 10, 0.7 pCi/g, respectively.
In Table 7, metal concentrations for sediment samples collected from Putah Creek downstream from the LEHR are presented. When compared to the metal concentrations for the background location (Site #4), metal concentrations for the downstream sample locations are not appreciably greater than those for the background location except for chromium, mercury, nickel, silver, and zinc at Site #1, zinc at Site #2, and chromium at Site #3. However, the chromium, nickel, silver, and zinc concentrations were only slightly elevated; all of these metals are present naturally in soil. Mercury, however, is not normally present in soil except where mercury-containing minerals are found. The elevated concentrations of mercury found at Site#1 could result in bioconcentration of mercury in fish and other aquatic animals and plants.
In Table 8, organic concentrations for sediment samples collected from Putah Creek downstream from the LEHR are presented. No concentrations were detected above the Reporting Limit for all analytes at all sample locations. Based on these organic analyses, there is no indication of elevated organic concentrations in the Putah Creek sediment.
In Table 9, radionuclide concentrations for fish samples collected from Putah Creek downstream from the LEHR are presented. When compared to the radionuclide concentrations for the background location (Site #4), radionuclide concentrations for the downstream sample locations are not appreciably greater than those for the background location except for Hg-203 measured in Composite 1 and 2 at Site #1, and Th-232 and Th-228 measured in Composite 2 at Site #1 and the Composite at Site #2. Th-232 and Th-228 are naturally occurring radionuclides, and these concentrations are not appreciably elevated. However, Hg-203 is a man-made radionuclide and does not appear naturally in the environment. The half-life for Hg-203 is 46.61 days; therefore, the Hg-203 release(s) would have had to occurred within about one year or less before September 1996. Note that elevated mercury concentrations were also found in the sediment collected from Site #1; this was the only sediment location with elevated mercury concentrations. However, dose calculations based on the highest Hg-203 concentration plus two standard deviations resulted in 0.0011, 0.0024, and 0.0013 mrem/y for adult-residential, adult-recreational, and child-(5-9y), respectively. These Hg-203 dose concentrations are orders of magnitude below any radiological dose standards such as the USEPA drinking water regulations (1) for gamma emitters of 4 mrem/y. The potential Hg-203 dose from eating fish taken from Putah Creek is of no biological significance and presents no health hazard.
In Table 10, metal concentrations for fish samples collected from Putah Creek downstream from the LEHR are presented. When compared to the metal concentrations for the background location (Site #4), metal concentrations for the downstream sample locations are not appreciably greater than those for the background location except for mercury and lead at Site #1, #2 and #3 and silver at Site #2. The highest mercury concentration, 0.69 ppm, and the highest lead concentration, 1.06 ppm, were measured in fish collected from Site #1. It was noted above that mercury found in the sediment at Site #1 could result in bioconcentration of mercury in fish and other aquatic animals and plants. These results support that statement. Also, when the metal concentrations for down-stream and the background location are compared to the relevant USEPA screening values for fish (8) presented in Table 15, the metal concentrations for the samples are not greater except for the comparison for mercury -- 0.69 ppm compared to 0.6 ppm, and lead -- 1.06 ppm compared to 0.3 ppm. It appears that potential doses of mercury and lead from eating fish taken from some areas of Putah Creek could present a health hazard.
In Table 11, organic concentrations for fish samples collected from Putah Creek downstream from the LEHR are presented. No concentrations were detected above the Reporting Limit for all analytes at all sample locations. In addition, when the organic concentrations for downstream and the background locations are compared to the relevant USEPA screening values for fish (8) presented in Table 15, the organic concentrations for the samples are not greater than those screening values except for dicofol, dieldrin, toxaphene and total PCBs. However, this is an artifact of the NAREL analytical method since the Reporting Limit for each of these three contaminants is
Table 15. Screening Values for Selected Metal and Organic Contaminants in Fish
|
Analyte |
CAS Number |
Screening Values from Table 5-2 (8) (ppm) |
Calculated Screening Values by Equation 5-4 (8) (ppm) |
|
Arsenic (inorganic) |
7440-36-0 |
3 |
|
|
Cadmium |
7440-43-9 |
10 |
|
|
Mercury |
7439-97-6 |
0.6 |
|
|
Lead |
7439-92-1 |
|
0.3 (18) [see Appendix D] |
|
Selenium |
7782-49-2 |
50 |
|
|
Silver |
7440-22-4 |
|
32 (19) |
|
Chlordane (total) |
57-74-9 |
0.08 |
|
|
4,4"-DDT |
50-29-3 |
0.3 |
|
|
Dicofol |
115-32-2 |
10 |
|
|
Dieldrin |
60-57-1 |
0.007 |
|
|
Endosulfan I and II (total) |
959-98-8 33213-65-9 |
60 |
|
|
Endrin |
72-20-8 |
3 |
|
|
Heptachlor Epoxide |
1024-57-3 |
0.01 |
|
|
Hexachlorobenzene |
118-74-1 |
0.07 |
|
|
Lindane |
58-89-9 |
0.08 |
|
|
Toxaphene |
8001-35-2 |
0.1 |
|
|
PCBs (total aroclors) |
|
0.01 |
|
greater than the respective screening value. The dicofol, dieldrin, toxaphene, and PCBs Reporting Limits are 20, 0.01, 0.51, and 0.8 ppm compared to the screening values of 10, 0.007, 0.1, and 0.01 ppm, repectively. Nevertheless, based on these organic analyses, there is no indication of elevated organic concentrations in the fish collected from Putah Creek.
CONCLUSIONS
The radionuclide, metal, and organic concentrations in the water collected from Putah Creek are not appreciably elevated as compared to background concentrations or relevant standards and guidelines.
The radionuclide, metal, and organic concentrations in the sediment collected from Putah Creek are not appreciably elevated as compared to background concentrations or typical radionuclide concentrations in soil except for mercury found at Site #1 which could be the source for bioconcentrated mercury in fish and other aquatic animals and plants.
The radionuclide, metal, and organic concentrations in the fish collected from Putah Creek are not appreciably elevated as compared to background concentrations and screening values except for Hg-203 at Site #1 and mercury and lead at Site #1, #2, and #3. Bioconcentrated Hg-203, mercury, and lead are present in the collected fish. The potential radiation doses from Hg-203 by eating fish taken from Putah Creek present no health hazard. However, potential doses of mercury and lead from eating fish taken from Putah Creek present a possible health hazard.
RECOMMENDATIONS
We recommend that the appropriate agency:
Conduct an additional fish study to define the concentration of lead and mercury in different fish species within selected length ranges, i.e., age ranges, so as to determine which fish species should be in a fish advisory, if any, for Putah Creek. [Note: Unlike this initial screening study which investigated many different contaminants (i.e., requires a large number of different analyses and large sample weights), the next study should only address mercury and lead contamination which requires only one aliquot of 50 g-wet for the lead/mercury analysis. Even with a small fish population, a study is then possible based on individual species and length ranges.]
In the interim, consider addressing the possible health hazard associated with the elevated concentrations of lead and mercury found in the fish collected from areas of Putah Creek near the former LEHR site.
Consider investigating whether Hg-203, mercury, and lead are presently being released and, if so, that the releases meet applicable environmental regulations.
REFERENCES
(1) United States Environmental Protection Agency. Code of Federal Regulations. 40 CFR 141.
(2) Nuclear Regulatory Commission. Code of Federal Regulations. 10 CFR 20.
(3) Food and Drug Administration. Federal Register. 58 FR 41612 (1993).
(4) United States Environmental Protection Agency. Federal Register. 45 FR 79318-79319 (1980).
(5) United States Environmental Protection Agency. Code of Federal Regulations. 40 CFR 261, Appendix VIII.
(6) United States Environmental Protection Agency. Ambient Water Quality Criteria Document: Endosulfan. Washington, DC: USEPA, OWRS, CSD. EPA 440/5-80-046 (1980).
(7) United States Environmental Protection Agency. Technical Support Document for the Development of Radionuclide Cleanup Levels for Soil. Washington, DC: USEPA, ORIA. EPA 402-R-96-011A (1994).
(8) United States Environmental Protection Agency. Guidance for Assessing Chemical Contaminant Data for Use in Fish Advisories, Volume 1, Fish Sampling and Analysis, 2nd ed. Washington, DC: USEPA, OW. EPA 823-R-95-007 (1995).
(9) United States Environmental Protection Agency. National Air and Radiation Environmental Laboratory, LEHR, Gamma Spectrometry Results (fish--NB#96-00067, sediment--NB#96-00052, and water--NB#96-00051). Montgomery, AL: USEPA, OAR, ORIA, NAREL, MASB (1997).
(10) United States Environmental Protection Agency. National Air and Radiation Environmental Laboratory, LEHR, Gross Alpha and Beta Analytical Results (fish--NB#96-00067, sediment--NB#96-00052, and water--NB#96-00051). Montgomery, AL: USEPA, OAR, ORIA, NAREL, MASB (1997).
(11) United States Environmental Protection Agency. National Air and Radiation Environmental Laboratory, LEHR, Plutonium Radiochemical Analytical Results (fish--NB#96-00067, sediment--NB#96-00052, and water--NB#96-00051). Montgomery, AL: USEPA, OAR, ORIA, NAREL, MASB (1997).
(12) United States Environmental Protection Agency. National Air and Radiation Environmental Laboratory, LEHR, Strontium Radiochemical Analytical Results (fish--NB#96-00067, sediment--NB#96-00052, and water--NB#96-00051). Montgomery, AL: USEPA, OAR, ORIA, NAREL, MASB (1997).
(13) United States Environmental Protection Agency. National Air and Radiation Environmental Laboratory, LEHR, Thorium Radiochemical Results (fish--NB#96-00067, sediment--NB#96-00052, and water--NB#96-00051). Montgomery, AL: USEPA, OAR, ORIA, NAREL, MASB (1997).
(14) United States Environmental Protection Agency. National Air and Radiation Environmental Laboratory, LEHR, Urainium Radiochemical Analytical Results (fish--NB#96-00067, sediment--NB#96-00052, and water--NB#96-00051). Montgomery, AL: USEPA, OAR, ORIA, NAREL, MASB (1997).
(15) United States Environmental Protection Agency. National Air and Radiation Environmental Laboratory, LEHR, Inorganic Analytical Results (fish--NB#96-00067, sediment--NB#96-00052, and water--NB#96-00051). Montgomery, AL: USEPA, OAR, ORIA, NAREL, MASB (1997).
(16) United States Environmental Protection Agency. National Air and Radiation Environmental Laboratory, LEHR, Organic Analytical Results (fish--NB#96-00067, sediment--NB#96-00052, and water--NB#96-00051). Montgomery, AL: USEPA, OAR, ORIA, NAREL, MASB (1997).
(17) Sanford Cohen and Associates, Inc. LEHR Analytical Report -- Ra-226, Ra-228, C-14, Co, Ni, and V (fish, sediment, and water). Montgomery, AL: Sanford Cohen and Associates Southeastern Regional Laboratory (1997).
(18) United States Environmental Protection Agency. Risk Assessment Guidance for Superfund, Volume I: Human Health Evaluation Manual, Supplement Guidance "Standard Default Exposure Factors" (Interim Final). Washington, DC: USEPA, OERR, TIB. OSWER Directive 9285.6-03 (1991).
(19) United States Environmental Protection Agency. Integrated Risk Information System (IRIS). Cincinnati, OH: USEPA (1989).
APPENDIX A
Sampling and Analysis Guidelines for the LEHR Site
Sampling and Analysis Guidelines for Fish, Sediment, and Water Samples from the Putah Creek Adjacent to the Former Laboratory for Energy-Related Health Research
Davis, CA
Prepared by:
Clinton Cox, PhD
USEPA-NAREL
540 South Morris Avenue
Montgomery, AL 36115-2601
Prepared for:
Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry
1600 Clifton Road, NE
Atlanta, GA 30333
NAREL
National Air and Radiation Environmental Laboratory
August 24, 1996
1.0 Purpose
In a Site Summary Report entitled "Laboratory for Energy-Related Health Research, Davis, California" dated December 1995, prepared by the Agency for Toxic Substances and Disease Registry (ATSDR), a recommendation was made to conduct a screening analysis survey of fish from the Putah Creek. This document provides guidance in the selection, collection, and analysis of fish samples (and collocated sediment and water samples) to be collected from the Putah Creek. It is intended to provide general guidance to personnel who are familiar with and have procedures in place for the collection of fish, sediment and water samples from streams such as that being studied. Directions for packing and shipping of the samples obtained are included. Further, it identifies the radiological and chemical analyses to be performed on the collected and processed samples.
2.0 Potential Contamination of Concern
ATSDR has requested the National Air and Radiation Environmental Laboratory (NAREL) to collect biota (e.g., fish and crayfish) that is present in Putah Creek near the former Department of Energy (DOE) Laboratory for Energy-Related Health Research (LEHR) at Davis, CA. We anticipate that the samples [projected to be 8 fish, 4 crayfish plus collocated waters (and possibly water filters) and sediments of 4 samples each] will be collected during the week of 26 August 1996. Analyses for the fish and crayfish will be performed on fillets and tails, respectively. We anticipate that the samples will be available for analysis on about 3 September 1996. The following analyses will be performed on all samples.
Metals
1. Antimony
2. Arsenic (inorganic)*+
3. Barium+
4. Cadmium*+
5. Chromium (total)+
6. Lead+
7. Mercury*+
8. Selenium*+
9. Silver+
10. Thallium
11. Zinc
12. Vanadium
13. Cobalt
14. Nickel
*
USEPA Fish Advisories Metal+
USEPA RCRA MetalOrganochlorine Pesticides
1. Chlordane, total
2. DDT, total
3. Dicofol (kelthane)
4. Dieldrin
5. Endosulfan (I and II)
6. Endrin
7. Heptachlor Epoxide
8. Hexachlorobenzene
9. Lindane
10. Toxaphene
PCBs
1. Total Aroclors (reported as seven individual aroclors, i.e., Aroclor 1016, 1221, 1232, 1242, 1248, 1254, and 1260)
Radionuclides
1. Sr
2. C-14
2. Ra, Th, U, Pu
3. Gross Alpha
4. Gross Beta
5. Gamma Spectrometry
Analytes From EPA's Fish Advisories' Recommended Target Analytes List NOT NEEDED:
1. Metal: Tributyl Tin*
2. Organochlorine Pesticide: Mirex
3. Organophosphate Pesticides
4. Chlorophenoxy Herbicides
5. Dioxins/furans
6. PAHsThe Reporting Limits for the non-rad analytes are presented in Table 1, and the Minimum Detectable Concentrations (MDCs) for the radionuclides of interest are presented in Tables 2 and 3.
TABLE 1. Reporting Limits of Mixed Waste Analytes for LEHR Environmental Samples
|
|
Water |
SW-846 Method #'s |
Soil |
SW-846 Method #'s |
Fish/Crayfish |
SW-846 |
|
Antimony |
60 µg/L |
3015/7041 |
12 mg/Kg* |
3051/7041 |
12 mg/Kg* |
3051/7041 |
|
Arsenic |
10 µg/L |
3015/7060A |
2 mg/Kg* |
3051/7060A |
2 mg/Kg* |
3051/7060A |
|
Barium |
200 µg/L |
3015/7080A |
40 mg/Kg* |
3051/7080A |
40 mg/Kg* |
3051/7080A |
|
Cadmium |
5 µg/L |
3015/7131A |
1 mg/Kg* |
3051/7131A |
1 mg/Kg* |
3051/7131A |
|
Chromium |
10 µg/L |
3015/7190 |
2 mg/Kg* |
3051/7190 |
2 mg/Kg* |
3051/7190 |
|
Lead |
3 µg/L |
3015/7421 |
0.6 mg/Kg* |
3051/7421 |
0.6 mg/Kg* |
3051/7421 |
|
Mercury |
0.2 µg/L |
7470A |
0.1 mg/Kg* |
7471A |
0.1 mg/Kg* |
7471A |
|
Selenium |
5 µg/L |
3015/7740 |
1 mg/Kg* |
3051/7740 |
1 mg/Kg* |
3051/7740 |
|
Silver |
10 µg/L |
3015/7761 |
2 mg/Kg* |
3051/7761 |
2 mg/Kg* |
3051/7761 |
|
Thallium |
10 µg/L |
3015/7841 |
2 mg/Kg* |
3051/7841 |
2 mg/Kg* |
3051/7841 |
|
Zinc |
20 µg/L |
3015/7950 |
4 mg/Kg* |
3051/7950 |
4 mg/Kg* |
3051/7950 |
|
Pesticides/PCBs |
Water |
SW-846 Method #'s |
Soil |
SW-846 Method #'s |
Fish/Crayfish |
SW-846 Method #'s |
|
Chlordane (total) |
0.05 µg/L |
3510B/3640A/8081 |
1.7 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
5.1 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
|
4,4' - DDT |
0.10 µg/L |
3510B/3640A/8081 |
3.3 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
10.0 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
|
Dicofol |
0.20 µg/L |
3510B/3640A/8081 |
6.6 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
20.0 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
|
Dieldrin |
0.10 µg/L |
3510B/3640A/8081 |
3.3 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
10.0 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
|
Endosulfan I |
0.05 µg/L |
3510B/3640A/8081 |
1.7 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
5.1 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
|
Endosulfan II |
0.10 µg/L |
3510B/3640A/8081 |
3.3 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
10.0 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
|
Endrin |
0.10 µg/L |
3510B/3640A/8081 |
3.3 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
10.0 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
|
Heptachlor Epoxide |
0.05 µg/L |
3510B/3640A/8081 |
1.7 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
5.1 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
|
Hexachlorobenzene |
0.05 µg/L |
3510B/3640A/8081 |
1.7 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
5.1 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
|
Lindane |
0.05 µg/L |
3510B/3640A/8081 |
1.7 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
5.1 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
|
Toxaphene |
5.0 µg/L |
3510B/3640A/8081 |
170 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
510.0 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
|
Aroclor 1016 |
1.0 µg/L |
3510B/3640A/8081 |
33.0 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
100.0 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
|
Aroclor 1221 |
2.0 µg/L |
3510B/3640A/8081 |
67.0 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
200.0 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
|
Aroclor 1232 |
1.0 µg/L |
3510B/3640A/8081 |
33.0 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
100.0 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
|
Aroclor 1242 |
1.0 µg/L |
3510B/3640A/8081 |
33.0 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
100.0 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
|
Aroclor 1248 |
1.0 µg/L |
3510B/3640A/8081 |
33.0 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
100.0 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
|
Aroclor 1254 |
1.0 µg/L |
3510B/3640A/8081 |
33.0 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
100.0 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
|
Aroclor 1260 |
1.0 µg/L |
3510B/3640A/8081 |
33.0 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
100.0 µg/Kg* |
3550A/3640A/8081 |
* All soil and fish/crayfish units are based on wet weight. Soil samples will be reported on a dry weight basis.
Fish/crayfish samples will be reported on a wet weight basis.
TABLE 2. Minimum Detectable Concentration (MDC) for Gamma Emitters Using Gamma
Spectrometry with a Ge Detector
|
Selected Gamma Emitters |
MDC (pCi/L) |
MDC (pCi/gwet) |
MDC (pCi/gwet) |
MDC (pCi/gwet) |
MDC (pCi/gwet) |
|
Am-241 |
17.7 |
0.0179 |
0.0842 |
0.168 |
0.0177 |
|
Cd-109 |
83.0 |
0.0749 |
0.424 |
0.901 |
0.0830 |
|
Th-234 |
52.5 |
0.0468 |
0.270 |
0.578 |
0.0525 |
|
U-235 |
56.7 |
0.0470 |
0.294 |
0.684 |
0.0567 |
|
Ra-226 |
86.1 |
0.0710 |
0.446 |
1.05 |
0.0861 |
|
Th-229 |
65.6 |
0.0540 |
0.340 |
0.799 |
0.0656 |
|
Pb-212 |
8.45 |
0.00689 |
0.0439 |
0.104 |
0.00845 |
|
Ra-224 |
91.0 |
0.0742 |
0.473 |
1.12 |
0.0910 |
|
Ra-223 |
26.7 |
0.0216 |
0.139 |
0.329 |
0.0267 |
|
Pb-214 |
11.4 |
0.00919 |
0.0601 |
0.143 |
0.0114 |
|
I-131 |
5.84 |
0.00468 |
0.0307 |
0.0730 |
0.0584 |
|
Rn-219 |
69.6 |
0.0556 |
0.367 |
0.873 |
0.0696 |
|
Be-7 |
45.4 |
0.0360 |
0.241 |
0.574 |
0.0454 |
|
Ba-140 |
22.2 |
0.0175 |
0.119 |
0.282 |
0.0222 |
|
Rn-220 |
7110 |
5.6 |
38.0 |
90.4 |
7.11 |
|
Tl-208 |
6.42 |
0.00504 |
0.0344 |
0.0818 |
0.00642 |
|
Cs-134 |
6.67 |
0.00523 |
0.0357 |
0.0850 |
0.00667 |
|
Bi-214 |
13.1 |
0.0103 |
0.0704 |
0.167 |
0.0131 |
|
Cs-137 |
7.26 |
0.00567 |
0.0391 |
0.0929 |
0.00726 |
|
Bi-212 |
89.4 |
0.0696 |
0.483 |
1.15 |
0.0894 |
|
Pb-211 |
188 |
0.145 |
1.02 |
2.42 |
0.188 |
|
Mn-54 |
7.03 |
0.00543 |
0.0382 |
0.0909 |
0.00703 |
|
Ra-228 |
24.4 |
0.0188 |
0.133 |
0.317 |
0.0244 |
|
Pa-234m |
950 |
0.728 |
5.20 |
12.4 |
0.950 |
|
Co-60 |
10.3 |
0.00782 |
0.0566 |
0.135 |
0.0103 |
|
Na-22 |
9.38 |
0.00712 |
0.0519 |
0.123 |
0.00938 |
|
K-40 |
99.3 |
0.0749 |
0.552 |
1.31 |
0.0993 |
NOTE: MDCs will vary depending on activity in the sample, density of sample matrix, efficiency of detector, and other counting parameters. The above MDCs were calculated based on a 1000-min count of a 1.0-L Marinelli of deionized water.
Table 3. NAREL Minimum Detectable Concentration (MDC) for Selected Radionuclides Using
Various Radiochemical Analyses
|
Radionuclide |
Matrix |
Typical Aliquot Size |
Count Time (min) |
Method |
MDC |
|
Carbon-14 |
Solid |
0.5 g |
100 |
LS |
3 pCi/g |
|
Water |
10 mL |
100 |
LS |
250 pCi/L |
|
|
Gross Alpha |
Water |
250 mL |
100 |
GFP |
6 pCi/L |
|
Gross Beta |
Water |
250 mL |
100 |
GFP |
3 pCi/L |
|
Radium-226 |
Water |
1 L |
1000 |
SC |
0.02 pCi/L |
|
Solids |
0.5 g |
1000 |
SC |
0.04 pCi/g |
|
|
Radium-228 |
Water |
1 L |
100 |
GFP |
1 pCi/L |
|
Solids |
0.5 g |
100 |
GFP |
2 pCi/g |
|
|
Uranium-234, 235, 238 Thorium-230, 232 Plutonium-238, 239/240 |
Water |
1L |
1000 |
AS |
0.1 pCi/L |
|
Solids |
0.5 g |
1000 |
AS |
0.2 pCi/g |
|
|
Thorium-227 |
Water |
1L |
1000 |
AS |
0.2 pCi/L |
|
Solids |
0.5 g |
1000 |
AS |
0.35 pCi/g |
|
|
Thorium-228 |
Water |
1L |
1000 |
AS |
0.15 pCi/L |
|
Solids |
0.5 g |
1000 |
AS |
0.3 pCi/g |
AS Alpha Spectrometry GFP Gas-Flow Proportional Counting
LS Liquid Scintillation Counting SC Scintillation Counting
3.0 Sample Collection
3.1 Fish Species
Putah Creek contains an excellent collection of both native and introduced species. There are trout in the upper reaches of Putah Creek, but the LEHR site is low down in the system and the water is warmer. As a result, a background site, where the same warm-water fish may be captured, will be selected near the site. The fish categories and target species are as follows:
Game Fish Category
1) Bluegill, Lepomis Macrochirus
2) Largemouth Bass, Micropterus Salmoides
Bottom-Feeders Category
1) Common Carp, Cyprinus Carpio
2) Catfish, Ictalurus Species
Other Category
1) Crayfish, Astacidae
3.2 Sample Sites
Presently, there is a lot of water in the creek which continues to flow several miles downstream of the site. In recent years, this was not the case during late summer months. Two locations on the South Fork, one at the site and one downstream one or two miles are easily accessible. The North Fork is really not connected to the South Fork (only at high water and by a storm water culvert) or related to it from a contamination standpoint - it is actually a stagnant, ponded stretch. The North Fork was not identified for sampling.
For background sampling, the creek is accessible for several miles upstream. The background site selected is above all influence from the University which is several miles downstream. Several potential sources of pollution are at or near the site including: the UC Davis waste water treatment plant which discharges immediately upstream of the site at the Old Davis Road bridge crossing, a storm channel which cuts through the old landfill which is part of the site on the downstream side (it is usually dry), other departments of the University located upstream, and the University landfill located near the County Road 98 crossing of Putah Creek.
The following four sampling locations (one a background location) were selected:
Location #1 - South Fork Putah Creek - downstream of Old Davis Road and adjacent to the site.
Location #2 - South Fork Putah Creek - 1 mile downstream of Old Davis Road and 0.6 miles downstream of storm drain on eastern edge of LEHR site.
Location #3 - South Fork Putah Creek - 2 mile downstream of Old Davis Road and 1.6 miles downstream of storm drain on eastern edge of LEHR site.
Location #4 - South Fork Putah Creek - a background site located upstream, west of Davis off Putah Creek Road near Stevenson Bridge Road crossing.
3.3 Sampling Method
Fish, sediment and water samples will be collected and shipped, under chain-of-custody, by documented procedures currently in use by USEPA Region 9. The fish samples may be, depending upon availability, composites of different species from a single sample location. However, identifiers and records of individual species should be maintained during sampling and on the chain-of-custody form. If composites are necessary, they will be performed at the laboratory. If possible, it is desirable to have 1 kg of each fish species collected to be included in the composites.
3.3.1 Fish Sampling
Sampling for fish will be accomplished with a seine. If seining success is poor due to snags, a backpack electroshocker will be used from a 13-ft boat. Seining should work well upstream, but habitat at the site and downstream may make seining difficult. Crayfish will be captured in baited crayfish traps. A minimum of 2 kg of each fish category will be required. The level of effort, gear used, and fish sampling information will be recorded in field logbooks.
3.3.2 Water Sampling
Grab surface water samples will be collected directly into sample container (at least 2 L for metals, 2 L for pesticides/PCBs, and 8 L for rad) near the stream center in proximity of the locations where the crayfish samples were collected. Field duplicates and collocated samples will also be collected at Sample Location #1. If particulate is visible in the metal or rad water samples, the particulate will be removed with a 0.45-m filter. Each container (and 0.45-m filter, if present) will be clearly marked as to the analysis to be performed. Filters will not be analyzed unless greater than 5 g of particulate is present. Nitric acid will be used to adjust the pH of the metal and rad water samples (after filtering) to 2. Water sampling information will be recorded in field logbooks.
3.3.3 Sediment Sampling
Grab sediment samples (at least 800 g for metals, 400 g for pesticides/PCBs, and 2000 g for rad) will be collected to a sediment depth of about 15 cm using a dredge such as an Eckman, Ponar, or Petersen dredge or, if appropriate, a coring device can be used. The sediment samples will be collected in proximity of the locations where the crayfish and water samples were collected. Sediment samples will be transferred to the appropriate container and clearly marked as to the analysis to be performed. Field duplicates and collocated samples will also be collected at Sample Location #1. Sediment sampling information will be recorded in field logbooks.
3.3.4 Sample Containers, Storage, and Shipment
Sample containers, acid preservative, and packaging will be selected to suit the analytical needs and to follow sampling and analysis procedures. Samples should be maintained at 4±2oC and shipped to NAREL for next day delivery. Peter Husby, John Griggs, and Mike Clark will coordinate the sample volumes, containers, preservative, storage, and shipping requirements for this survey.
4.0 Analyses
The fish collected from Putah Creek will be analyzed per NAREL standard analytical procedures for radioactive and target analytes listed in Guidance for Assessing Chemical Contamination Data For Use in Fish Advisories, Volume 1, Fish Sampling and Analysis, Second Edition, September 1995 and Section 2.0 Potential Contamination of Concern above. Analyses will be performed on the fish fillets and crayfish tails. The QAPP applicable to this project is Quality Assurance Project Plan for Radiochemical Measurements to Provide Technical Support for NAREL Environmental Evaluation at Department of Energy Sites.
5.0 Shipping Instructions
The samples are to be maintained at 4±2oC while waiting for shipment to NAREL. Sediment and water samples will be shipped in picnic coolers, along with chain-of-custody forms. Each fish sample obtained should be placed whole in labeled, zip-lock freezer bags, along with the chain-of-custody forms, packed in ice inside a picnic cooler of sufficient size and shipped via overnight delivery to:
USEPA-NAREL
540 South Morris Avenue
Montgomery, AL 3611-2601
Contact: Susan Baker, Sample Prep
(334) 270-7052
Sample Prep at NAREL should be informed a minimum of three days in advance of the impending arrival of the samples. If needed, NAREL will provide shipping containers, survey supplies, and shipping invoices.
6.0 Data Reporting
NAREL will produce a data quality package which includes the QA/QC data for the project. Also, a NAREL Technical Report will be written that includes the survey results in table form, a discussion of the results, conclusions and recommendations, as appropriate.
Appendix B
Field Sampling Summary for Sampling from Putah Creek Adjacent to the Former Laboratory for Energy-Related Health Research
Davis, CA
Prepared by:
Peter Husby
USEPA Region 9 Laboratory
337 S. 46th St.; Building 201
Richmond, CA 94804
INTRODUCTION
Background
This sampling event near the Former Laboratory for Energy-Related Health Research (LEHR) Site in Davis, CA was performed to assist the USEPA-National Air and Radiation Environmental Laboratory (NAREL) in conducting a screening analysis survey of fish from Putah Creek. The sampling was performed by personnel from the USEPA Region 9 Laboratory. Sampling was performed in accordance with the Sampling and Analysis Guidelines (see Appendix A) document dated August 24, 1996. These Guidelines provided general guidance in the selection, collection, and analysis of fish samples (and collocated sediment and water samples) to be collected from the Putah Creek. This document outlines the specific methods used and the dates and times of all collections. Sampling occurred between August 27 and September 12, 1996.
Sample Locations
The following four locations were sampled:
Site #1 - South Fork Putah Creek - downstream of Old Davis Road and adjacent to the site.
Lat/Lon - N 38O 31'2.0" W 121O 45'22.1"
Site #2 - South Fork Putah Creek - 1 mile downstream of Old Davis Road and 0.6 miles downstream of storm drain on eastern edge of LEHR site. Lat/Lon - N 38O 31' 1.6" W 121O 43'58.0"
Site #3 - South Fork Putah Creek - 2 mile downstream of Old Davis Road and 1.6 miles downstream of storm drain on eastern edge of LEHR site. Lat/Lon - N 38O 31' 0.7" W 121O 42'46.8"
Site #4 - South Fork Putah Creek - a background site located upstream, west of Davis upstream of Pedrick Road crossing. Lat/Lon - N 38O 31'34.4" W 121O 48'42.9"
SAMPLING METHODS
Fish Sampling
Fish collection occurred over several days and involved various methods, as required by the habitats and conditions encountered at each site. Electrofishing occurred over larger reaches, while netting was limited to specific locations, near the crayfish traps and sediment and water collection points. The fish which were collected or trapped were stored on ice during the day in the field and placed in the freezer upon return to the Region IX Lab. Identifications were made in the field and verified in the lab prior to shipment. See Table B-1 for dates of sampling, and Table B-2 for a summary of the fish species collected and the total lengths and weights of the specimens collected. Specific information on collection methods used at each site is outlined below:
Site #1 - Due to the depth of the reach, seining was not possible. Electroshocking was attempted, using a backpack shocker mounted on a 13-foot boat, with no success. Finally, sufficient sample was collected with two Fyke nets. The nets were set on 9/11 and the fish collected on 9/12.
Site #2 - Due to the depth and width of the reach, seining was not possible. Electroshocking was attempted using a backpack shocker mounted on a 13-foot boat. Although success was limited, minimum tissue for both game and bottom-fish was collected.
Site #3 - This site was also too deep and wide for seining or backpack electroshocking. In addition, there was no access point for a boat and access upstream and downstream of the location was obstructed by thick brush. Therefore, a large mesh (6 inch) gill net and a hoop net were set. These nets were set on 9/10 and checked on 9/11 and 9/12. Adequate sample of both game and bottom fish were obtained in that time frame.
Site #4 - This background site was initially sampled by seine on 8/27 with no success. As a result of the shallow, fast moving nature of most of the reach, backpack electroshocking was the easiest method of collection and was used exclusively at this site. The upper end of the reach was too deep and wide for electroshocking on foot and no boat access was available. Adequate game fish sample was collected after several days effort (8/27-28 and 9/3-4), but sufficient bottom-feeder tissue was not collected.
Crayfish were captured in baited crayfish traps. One trap was set at each site on 8/27. An additional trap was set at Sites 1 and 4. The two traps at Site 4 were removed on 9/4 and placed at Sites 2 & 3. All traps at Sites 1, 2 & 3 were removed on 9/12. Traps were baited with canned cat food and were checked each day samplers were on site. All crayfish collected were live and were placed on ice while in the field, then frozen at the Region 9 Lab until shipment to NAREL.
Surface Water Sampling
Grab surface water samples were collected directly into the sample containers. The samples were collected in the stream flow near the locations where the crayfish traps were set, and the sediment samples were collected. Field duplicates were collected at Site #1. As no visible particulate matter was noted in the samples, filtration was performed. All samples were kept on ice until shipment to NAREL. See Table B-1 for dates and times.
Sediment Sampling
A hand core was used to collect multiple sediment cores which were composited and then placed in sample containers. The sediments collected were soft sediments in close proximity to the crayfish traps and water sample locations. Field duplicates and collocated samples were collected at Site #1. All samples were kept on ice until shipment to NAREL. See Table B-1 for dates and times.
TABLE B-1
Sample Collection Summary
|
Location |
Fish Date |
Crayfish Date |
Sediment Date/Time |
Water Date/Time |
|
Site # 1 |
9/11-12/96 |
8/27 - 9/12/96 |
8/28/96 13:30 |
8/28/96 13:30 |
|
Site # 2 |
9/9/96 |
8/27 - 9/12/96 |
8/28/96 15:30 |
8/28/96 15:30 |
|
Site # 3 |
9/10-12/96 |
8/27 - 9/12/96 |
8/29/96 11:45 |
8/29/96 11:15 |
|
Site # 4 |
8/27-28, 9/3-4/96 |
8/27 - 9/4/96 |
8/27/96 11:10 |
8/27-28/96 10:35 |
TABLE B-2
Fish Species Summary
|
Location |
Common Name |
Scientific Name |
Number Collected |
Total Length |
Weight |
|
Site # 1 |
Black crappie |
Pomoxis nigromaculatus |
2 |
23.6 26.9 |
191 280 |
|
Largemouth bass |
Micropterus salmoides |
2 |
27.2 35.0 |
312 764 |
|
|
Bluegill |
Lepomis macrochirus |
1 |
17.0 |
118 |
|
|
White catfish |
Ameiurus catus |
2 |
33.5 38.9 |
638 783 |
|
|
Black bullhead |
Ameiurus melas |
4 |
22.1 22.4 26.9 27.7 |
204 219 362 312 |
|
|
Crayfish |
|
10 |
--- |
394 |
|
|
Site # 2 |
Largemouth bass |
Micropterus salmoides |
1 |
33 |
580 |
|
Black bullhead |
Ameiurus melas |
1 |
22.9 |
194 |
|
|
Carp |
Cyprinus carpio |
1 |
--- |
1500 |
|
|
Crayfish |
|
9 |
--- |
288 |
|
|
Site # 3 |
Largemouth bass |
Micropterus salmoides |
3 |
27.9 29.0 31.8 |
308 346 520 |
|
Black crappie |
Pomoxis nigromaculatus |
2 |
22.4 23.4 |
172 173 |
|
|
Carp |
Cyprinus carpio |
1 |
52.1 |
1621 |
|
|
White catfish |
Ameiurus catus |
1 |
60.4 |
2538 |
|
|
Crayfish |
|
9 |
--- |
265 |
|
|
Site # 4 |
Largemouth bass |
Micropterus salmoides |
3 |
6.1 14.2 20.6 |
3 49 120 |
|
Bluegill |
Lepomis macrochirus |
78 |
--- |
1845 |
|
|
Green Sunfish |
Lepomis cyanellus |
43 |
--- |
578 |
|
|
White catfish |
Ameiurus catus |
1 |
17.0 |
67 |
|
|
Crayfish |
|
8 |
--- |
203 |
Appendix C
General Information for Various NAREL Analytical Methods
Gamma Spectrometry:
The reporting format in the NAREL Data Quality Packages lists the gamma emitters in alphabetical order. The activity and 2-sigma uncertainty for radionuclides measured by gamma spectroscopy are reported only if the nuclide is detected. Nuclides that are not detected do not appear in the report, with the exception of Ba-140, Co-60, Cs-137, I-131, K-40, Ra-226 and Ra-228. If one of these seven nuclides is undetected, NAREL reports it as "Not Detected" or "ND" and provides a sample-specific estimate of the Minimum Detectable Concentration (MDC).
Due to potential spectral interferences and other possible problems associated with the determination of the activity of certain radionuclides, the activities for Th-234, Pa-234m, Ra-226, and U-235 are subject to greater possible error than other commonly reported radionuclides. Note that this potential error is not included in the 2-sigma counting error which is reported with each activity. Although in NAREL reports, the calculated activities for these radionuclides are provided, it is recommend that the results be used only as a qualitative means of indicating the presence of these radionuclides and not as a quantitative measure of their concentration. The results for these nuclides are not used in the evaluation of quality control samples. Furthermore, because of mutual interference between Ra-226 and U-235, NAREL's gamma analysis software tends to overestimate the amounts of these nuclides whenever both are present in a sample. Lower estimates for Ra-226 activities can be obtained from the reported activities of its decay products, Pb-214 and Bi-214, which are likely to be somewhat less than the Ra-226 activity because of the potential escape of radon gas.
NAREL's gamma spectroscopy software corrects activities and MDCs for decay between collection and analysis, but only up to a limit of ten half-lives. So, if the decay time for a sample is more than ten half-lives of a radionuclide, that nuclide will almost always be undetected and the reported MDC will be meaningless. This is usually a problem only for short-lives radionuclides, such as I-131 and Ba-140, when there is a long delay between collection and analysis.
Gross Alpha and Beta Analysis:
In comparison to the methods employed to determine radionuclide-specific activities, the method employed by NAREL to determine gross alpha and beta activity in water samples has the potential for greater analytical bias. It should be noted that this potential analytical error is not included in the 2-sigma counting error term. Therefore, gross alpha and beta results should be used as gross approximations of the alpha and beta activity present.
Thorium Radiochemical Analysis:
In analyzing samples for U-234 and U-238, U-232 is used as a tracer to determine the chemical recovery. Th-228 is produced from the radioactive decay of U-232 and since it is one of the thorium isotopes of concern, the small amount of Th-228 present once the tracer has been prepared for use, along with its ingrowth from the time of preparation to its use, is substracted from the Th-228 activity measured. Occasionally, our estimate of the Th-228 originally present in the tracer is too high. If the sample Th-228 activity is very low, overestimation of the Th-228 present in the tracer may result in a negative Th-228 activity for the sample.
Appendix D
Screening Value Calculation for Consumption of Lead-Contaminated Fish
The USEPA has established a safe action level of lead in drinking water of 0.015 mgPb/L (1) using default values of 2.0 L/day for water intake and 70 kg for the weight of an adult male. Within the USEPA Guidance for Assessing Chemical Contaminant Data for Use in Fish Advisories (8), a Screening Value (SVPb) for lead was not specified. Presented below are the assumptions and calculations used to estimate a SVPb for comparative use in this study.
Assumptions:
(1) The same Reference Dose (RfD) is applicable regardless whether the lead intake is from drinking water or eating contaminated fish. [Note: This assumption is conservative toward the protection of the public.]
(2) The most sensitive sub-population is children 9-12 yr of age who are likely to fish a small creek and eat the fish taken (parents and siblings may do the same for the family).
(3) The weight of 9-12 yr old children is 36 kg (8).
(4) The daily intake for locally caught fish is 54 g/day (18). [Note: This assumption is conservative toward the protection of the public.]
Calculations:
(1) RfD = (0.015 mgPb/L x 2.0 L/day)/70 kgm = 0.00043 mgPb/kgm-day
(2) SVPb = (0.00043 mgPb/kgm-day x 36 kgm)/(54 gf/day x kgf/1000 gf) = 0.3 mgPb/kgf
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