2.3 Fundamentals of Testing and Evaluation

the typical range of variation is a reasonable target. Natural cycles should be

considered when evaluating recovery potential.

2.3 Fundamentals of Testing and Evaluation

This section includes a discussion of some fundamental principles of testing

and evaluation that are common to multiple pathways. These include sampling

considerations, use of water quality standards, mixing/attenuation/dispersion

principles, and control and reference materials for testing. Specific application of

these principles is also mentioned as needed within the tiered framework for each

of the pathways in Chapters 4 through 9.

2.3.1 Sampling and Chemical Analysis

The evaluations in Tiers II and III for all pathways involve sediment

characterization and testing. Representative samples of the sediments under

consideration must be used for the testing program. Samples of channel sediment,

water from the dredging site, and receiving waters at the CDF location may be

required, depending on the pathways of concern. The levels of effort, including

number of sampling stations, quantity of material, and any schemes used for

compositing samples, are highly project-specific. If at all possible, the sampling

operations required for sediment characterization (both physical and chemical),

design and evaluation of the disposal site, and contaminant pathway tests should be

well coordinated to avoid unnecessary duplication of effort. A well-designed

sampling plan is therefore essential.

Chemical analyses of sediment, water, and tissue may be required, depending

on the contaminant pathways of concern. Accepted techniques for chemical

analysis should be used. Detection limits are also an important consideration. The

detection limits specified for the tests should be set sufficiently low to allow

comparison of tests results with applicable standards.

Supporting guidance regarding sediment sampling, sample collection,

handling, preservation and storage, and physical and chemical analyses is

available (EPA/USACE 1995 which is included in Appendix K) and should be

followed in conducting evaluations in the UTM.

2.3.2 Applicable Standards

Several of the pathway evaluations may involve comparison of contaminant

concentrations to applicable standards, such as water quality standards or

groundwater standards. If applicable standards are not met, it is assumed that an

ROC is at risk. Although standards are abiotic ROC, they are derived from

considerations of effects on biotic ROC and are designed to protect biotic ROC.

Applicable standards should be evaluated with regard to ambient concentrations

of a particular COC in the environment outside the CDF. Additional discussions

of specific types of standards are found in the respective pathway chapters.

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Chapter 2 Structure and Approach of the UTM