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HomeMy WebLinkAboutAkutan Port Study A Report for the City of Akutan 1981 Akutan Port Study A report for the City of Akutan <<< by —— Peratrovich & Nottingham, Inc. AUGUST 1981 Peratrovich & Nottingham, Inc. Engineering Consultants 1506 W. 36th Ave. e Suite 1017 ¢ Anchorage, Alaska 99503 AKUTAN PORT STUDY A Report for the CITY OF AKUTAN Akutan, Alaska Prepared by: Peratrovich & Nottingham, Inc. with Subconsultants: Ted Smith, Professional Geologist Alaskan Development Consultants August 1981 AKA ov Peratrovich & Nottingham, Inc. Engineering Consultants 1506 W. 36th Ave. « Suite 101 ¢ Anchorage, Alaska 99503 ¢ 907-272-8491 August 3, 1981 P&N 81021 Ms. Nancy Gross, City Administrator City of Akutan *” ; 308 G Street, Room 317 Anchorage, Alaska 99501 Dear Ms. Gross: It is with pleasure that Peratrovich & Nottingham, Inc. submits the Port Study Plan for development of the area at the head of Akutan Harbor. In accordance with the terms of the agreement between the City of Akutan and Peratrovich & Nottingham, Inc. (May 13, 1981), attached are the completed preliminary plans and costs for constructing a city dock and for providing the upland requirements of potential fish processing facilities. In addition, the plan offers supplementary services to assist the City of Akutan in the development of these facilities. We at Peratrovich & Nottingham, Inc. felt that an illustration showing a development perspective and illustrations of land use suitabilities would be helpful in the decision making process. Therefore, the plan contains these extra items for your benefit. The staff of Peratrovich & Nottingham, Inc. has enjoyed serving the City of Akutan in the preparation of this plan and appreciated your assistance in the process. We feel that the interest for this development, as expressed throughout the preparation of this study, in combination with the physical potential of the site will result in a port for fish processing and material transshipment which the City of Akutan can be proud. G (Bed Le oom 4a cet ela fog harder? cred Ea Professional Landscape Architect Assistant Engineer Sincerely yours, PERATROVI President DN:BG/kad/R2-c2 Attachment TABLE OF CONTENTS Page EXECUTIVE SUMMARY TABLE OF CONTENTS. .cccccsccnscccccsccccccccsscccecccssscccccccccesccsccceceved LIST OF DRAWINGS. ....cccccccccccccccccccccccsccccecccesccccccccccccecccesevcdd SECTION 1 -INTRODUCTION UPLAND DEVELOPMENT REQUIREMENTS... ccccsccccccccccccccccccccscccccsscceeesll ADVANTAGES AND DISADVANTAGES OF RECOMMENDED PORT FACILITY SITE AT AKUTAN HARBOR. .ecccccccccccccccccccccccccccceeeel2 SECTION 3 - PROJECT PLANNING PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL LIMITATIONS. ..cccecccccccccccccccccccscecececl 4 LEGAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL PERMITS. .cccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccccceselé SECTION 4 - CONSTRUCTION PHASING AND COST ESTIMATE CONSTRUCTION PHASING. ee ececececcccccccccccccccccccccccccccsccccccecceee lB PRELIMINARY PORT FACILITY COST ESTIMATE... cceccceccccccccccccccsccceeecel9 SECTION 5 - CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS APPENDIX A — DISCUSSION OF FIELD RECONNAISSANCE AND NATURAL CONDITIONS ON SITE APPENDIX B - STUDY METHODS AND ORGANIZATION APPENDIX C — DRINKING WATER ANALYSIS REPORT APPENDIX D - AKUTAN WAVE HINDCASTING DATA BIBLIOGRAPHY b) 2) 3) 4) 5) 6) 7) 8) LIST OF DRAWINGS Long-Term Development Plan Illustrated Perspective of Plan Water Supply and Earth Fill Material Field Reconnaissance Topographic Map Topography and Drainage Analysis Construction’ Suitability — Concept Development Potential Hydropower Potential a SECTION 1 INTRODUCTION Akutan Harbor is located centrally to Alaska's major fishing grounds. The importance of developing seafood processing and dock facilities in close proximity to these fishing grounds cannot be overstated. In addition to Akutan's close proximity to major fishing grounds, Akutan Harbor is one of the most protected harbors in this area. It is Akutan's importance to the development of 4 Bering Sea bottomfishing industry that prompted the City of Akutan to initiate a study which would assess the possibility of developing a bottomfish processing port and dock facility at this location. LOCATION The island of Akutan is located in the Fox Island group of the Aleutian Island Chain, 17 miles east of Unalaska Island and 20 miles west of Unimak Pass. Within a 50-mile radius of Akutan Harbor there exists abundant populations of commercially marketable shellfish and groundfish species. With Akun Island to the east and the protection on three sides by high rock walls, Akutan Harbor provides a safe anchorage from the effects of wind for local fisherman. This circumferential protection may be responsible for limited tsunami occurrence in the Harbor. BACKGROUND The magnitude of commercially harvestable fish stocks in the Bering Sea is yet to be determined, although conservative estimates indicate a sustained yield for cod alone to be approximately 2 billion pounds per year. Of the populations already monitored, the proposed dock site location would be within a fifty mile radius of these concentrations. Although the industry is currently in a marginal state economically, the anticipated upgrading of present processing facilities and the introduction of advanced technology for new facilities should produce a higher quality finished product such that viability for the industry would be forthcoming. Due to the close proximity of Akutan to these fishing grounds, it is conceivable that Akutan could develop into the bottomfish center of the Bering Sea area. The upland requirements for locating a fish processing facility are basically universal. There are on-site materials and resources which need to be available and developed for future demands. Additionally, primary facilities for potential upland users must be identified and estimates for their requirements made. A listing of primary components of a typical development follows: . Power supply . Dock and staging area - Upland area“ , . Fresh water source . Rock and fill material + A reliable potential for fish harvesting efforts Assuming these basic requirements have been located for the Akutan site, the construction of a bottomfish processing port and dock facility may then be attractive for the industry. SCOPE OF WORK The contract between the City of .Akutan and Pevevcevten & Nottingham, Inc., specifies that a study is desired to determine the prefeasibility for developing a major bottomfish plant and related support facilities in Akutan Harbor. These facilities shall radiate from a large vessel dock having the capacity of accommodating ships up to approximately 500 feet in length with a draft of at least 35 feet. The City is to be provided with a conceptual design indicating the placement of the proposed dock processing facilities and such related landward improvements as may be necessary for the dock's successful operation. In addition to basic design plans, a cost estimate for dock construction and for dock facilities necessary for transshipment requirements shall be provided. The final report to the City will encompass the results of all investigations, develop a conceptual port design and summarize the results of the following tasks: 2. 3. 5. Identify the upland requirement of the existing processors in Akutan Harbor. Locate land ownership at head of Akutan Bay. Gather existing topographical, geotechnical, water supply and bathymetric data pertaining to the surface and submerged lands at the head of Akutan - re Harbor. Contact potential port facility users, including; processors, shippers, and related marine personnel to obtain their current, accurate and reliable estimate of their requirements. Ascertain local geology, potential fill material from borrow sites, evaluate upland/wetland boundaries, stream flows, and such other environmental data as may be relevant to future industrial developments. SECTION 2 PORT DESIGN PARAMETERS Primarily this assignment involved the collection of data from State agencies, potential user groups including processors, fishermen and transportation and carrier companies, and on-site investigation of the upland and primary material sources immediately available to the site. LAND OWNERSHIP * Development of the proposed dock and upland facilities by the City of Akutan will require the acquisition of land at the head of Akutan Harbor from the Akutan and Aleutian Native Corporations. A search of surveys by the U.S. Geological Survey Recording District indicates that land ownership for the majority of those lands addressed on our Map of Construction Suitability have been deeded to these corporations. A 5.96-acre parcel, USS 766, is presently held by the State of Alaska, although the Akutan Native Corporation is attempting to acquire ownership. Expected upland development will require immediate use of this acreage for a seaplane ramp and for fishermen gear storage. PROCESSOR REQUIREMENTS The amount of land necessary for a 500,000 1b. (in-the-round) per day capacity processing plant and support systems is between four and six acres, depending on efficiency of layout design. Electrical and freshwater requirements vary with the type of system but should be designed for 1500 KW to 2000 KW, and 600 GPM respectively. The production rate of 25 to 30 percent finished product from the raw fish means a substantial amount of fish waste biproduct. The utilization of this material must be carefully planned as it continues to become more valuable. The finished frozen product should be transported and stored in self- regulating containerized freezer vans. These vans will require upland storage area as well as considerable handling attention during the design of the dock facility. Support facilities for the processor, the community, fishermen and other users will include services such as seaplane transportation, boat repair, equipment maintenance, fuel supplies, general construction and maintenance, and recreational facilities. Housing for 3000 to 3500 people could be expected in the future for support, plant operation and production. Planning for sufficient housing for families as well as cooperative living systems will be necessary. Approximate Housing Requirements (Plant Operation & Production): Labor (processor) 750 Boats (15) - - 200 Administration , 50 Support and maintenance 500 TOTAL 1,500 work force including families Approximately 600 GPM of freshwater is necessary for a bottomfish processing unit at a per day capacity of 500,000 pounds of raw fish. Considering other industrial and domestic users, a total volume of approximately 1,000,000 GPD for freshwater requirements must be found. An additional seawater volume of 1,000,000 GPD for saltwater cooling during crab processing will also be necessary. Further investigation by test drilling will be necessary to confirm the existence of these fresh water quantities at the site. POWER REQUIREMENTS Power requirements for the entire development will vary depending upon final processing capacity design. The following summation is approximate only. 500,000 1b. (in-the-round) per day capacity processing plant 1500-2000 kW 3000 population habitat 3000 KW Dock 300 KW Summation equals approximately 4800-5300 KW Sources for power are essentially undeveloped and therefore, locating and providing for these requirements should involve investigation into hydroelectric, diesel generation, wind generation, and geothermal electrical generation sources available to the site. 2. Diesel Fuel Generator Diesel fuel generation offers a probable major electrical power supply source for development. However, hydropower generation could provide added power supplies during all months, but could decline during the summer. Exclusive of processor power requirements, it is estimated that initial development would possibly require three 850 kw generators. . e - Hydropower During the reconnaissance field trip, a potential hydropower site was discovered in a creek west of Akutan Harbor. It is the main stem of the unnamed creek that flows into the northwest corner of Akutan Harbor. The potential hydropower site is located approximately 1.5 miles upstream from the bay. The water intake would be positioned on top of a bedrock bluff with a 1500- to 2000-foot long penstock feeding the power plant near the valley bottom. Interest was drawn to this site because of the attractive natural features for hydropower and proximity to the proposed development. Basic features are estimated as follows: . Stream drainage area = 1 sq. mi. . Expected flow range: 2 cfs to 10 cfs. . Head potential: 500 to 700 feet. . Potential power output: 100 to 300 KW . Dam site located where exposed bedrock consists of hard welded volcanic tuff. . Some storage regulation available in reservoir. . For run-of-river operation, water intake could substitute costly dam. . Penstock length 1500 to 2000 feet in length assuming a straight line between dam site and power plant. . Penstock route along exposed bedrock outcrops would provide proper foundation. . Power plant and building located near valley bottom and would be accessible by road. - 7 Turbine currently owned by City of Akutan could be installed. e Transmission line would be routed in valley bottom providing easy access and would extend about one mile to center of harbor development. . Flow would be delivered to natural channel at base of falls to avoid fish problems. Attributes of this site are significantly better than those associated with the hydropower site recently investigated near the City of Akutan. We understand that the project was considered infeasible due to high seismic risk, poor foundation conditions and high costs. Although this site will be subject to high seismic activity potential, the competent hard welded volcanic tuff bedrock near the surface should provide a good foundation and ‘avoid the soils liquefaction problem. Innovative designs oriented towards site specific constraints will produce a relatively simple system that would provide reliable power at a reasonable cost. The drainage area is about one square mile, which should provide a more reliable flow for power generation. In order to substantiate flow rates and fluctuations, it would be advisable to establish a continuous flow meter and a precipitation guage. Normally, several years of record are desirable before reliability can be established for water availability for power generation. Since there are virtually no records for the island of Akutan or surrounding area, it is important that basic instrumentation be installed to record data required for design. A flow measurement of 18 cubic feet per 3. second was made on the stream near the mouth on May 25, 1981. This flow is higher than at the potential hydropower site but is indicative of water availability. Figure 1 shows a picture taken at the proposed dam/intake site. It can be seen that flow is over rock outcrops. Figure 2 was taken in the canyon where the stream falls down to the valley bottom from the east bank. Note the rock outcrop along the east canyon wall which would be utilized to found the penstock. On the west valley wall, a skin slide can be seen which indicates that care should be taken in siting all components of the hydropower system. A field investigation should be conducted to determine foundation conditions for the dam/intake, penstock supports, and power plant building. In addition, potential hazards should be identified. Hydropower could provide base power during the initial phases of port development and decrease fuel consumption for the diesel generation plant which would be the basis for determining project economic feasibility. Geothermal Power Generation Hot springs occur at the head of Hot Spring Bay on the northeast side of Akutan Island. Surveys of the geothermal potential of this area are being conducted by Morrison Knudson and are necessary prior to fully accessing the prospect of this energy source. Wind Power Generation Akutan has excellent potential for the use of wind power to generate electricity. Dutch Harbor wind data indicate that equipment with an operating range of 7 to 60 knots that reaches full generating capacity at 22 knots could generate power 60 percent of the time and Operate at full capacity 7 percent of the time. Winds within this operating range occur 50 percent or more of the time in all months except July and August. Figure 2.0 DOCK REQUIREMENTS A multifunctional design is required for a dock at the Akutan site. Consideration for all users and their needs must be addressed. The following is a partial listing of these requirements developed from interviews and observations: DESIGN PARAMETERS FOR DOCK - + Minimum dock face and approach channel water depth should be at least -35 feet MLLW. . Design ship gross tonnage 20,000 tons or dead-weight tonnage 13,000 tons. (General cargo ships in the 500- to 600-foot size have dead-weight tonnage of about 13,000 tons.). . Larger ships prefer up to 1 mile turning radius for unassisted approach. Minimum radius is 1/2 mile without tug assistance. . Design dock for 250-ton mobile cranes, 60- to 80-ton axle forklift carriers, or 600- to 800-psf uniform loads. . Design should provide for water, fuel, waste disposal, and 440-volt 3-phase power (600 amps per large ship), dock lighting, and power for small boats and equipment. . Dock system should be designed for future expansion, future boat haulout addition, and other marine-related uses where possible. . Provide locations for fish unloading and transport to processor equipment. . Fender system to be designed to dock different-sized cargo vessels. . Dock and riprap to be designed to withstand design waves and currents with minimum maintenance. . Design wave is the significant wave which is equal to the average height of the 1/3 highest wave as determined by hindcast studies. Dock breakwater and shore protection must be designed for largest wave forces. . Dock elevation and uplands to be above highest wave and wave runup. . e . Design basic dock structure for 50-year life and fender system for 25-year life. . Orient pierhead line to allow both starboard and port docking depending on winds and currents. + Dock to have navigational lights as required. Specialized equipment will be required to move cargo expeditiously. Container cranes move containers at rates of about 25 units per hour while mobile cranes achieve rates of about 8 units per hour. These latter types of cranes would provide the versatility to perform other work and may be more appropriate for Akutan. Fork lifts will be necessary for movement of gear and supplies to catcher vessels and transport of containers on and off the dock. The design of the face of the dock and mooring dolphins will be such that they will act as a wave barrier forming a protected small boat harbor. This basin will be used for on and off loading and moorage of catcher and small transport vessels. UPLAND DEVELOPMENT REQUIREMENTS Based on the long-term operating needs of a single 500,000-1b. (in-the-round) per day capacity processing facility, the following user and space requirements are projected as shown on the plan: . Initial development should include van storage, cargo dock, staging area, provision for warehousing, and fishermen gear storage. -10- Provide seven acres for industrial use. Provide two acres for cargo storage staging (freezer van). Provide four acres for fishermen gear storage. Provide one acre fuel storage. Depending on the volume stored, a 2 to 3 acre fuel storage area would function more efficiently. Allow gravity feed to ship fueling operations. Assume shipboard pump to fill tank farm. Provide eleven acres for housing. Provide two acres shops/commercial and miscellaneous. Provide adequate greenbelts along anadromous stream. Provide 5,000 linear feet of road. Use gravel surface for initial topping cargo area and roadways, with minimum roadway width of 30 feet. Provide space for future warehousing and related building. Provide one acre for utilities; allow for expansion of future utility system. Provide space for future secondary sewage treatment. Provide pollution-control devices for future tank farm operations to be installed. Provide space for future shop/garage for maintenance and _ operations equipment. Provide design elevation of upland filled areas to be above effects of highest wind-driven waves. -ll- . Provide space for future communications facility. . Provide the same dock loading criteria for design of the upland fill section. . Provide minimum adequate turning area for truck operations at dock and roadway access from dock. ADVANTAGES Qe DISADVANTAGES OF RECOMMENDED PORT FACILITY SITE AT AKUTAN HARBOR Advantages: . Pierhead line at -35 feet MLLW. . Dock configuration meets user requirements at minimum construction cost. . Port location has minimum impact on private owners. . Dock alignment allows for both starboard and port ‘Soteiaes . Port facilities designed to require minimum annual maintenance. ° Dock provides partial protection for future additional small boat harbor and shelter for seaplane facilities. . Dredging is not required. . Port facility has suitable level upland necessary for future required development. . Proposed facility has minimum effect on environment and marine life. -12- Disadvantages: Turning basin less than 1/4 mile radius. . Larger vessels will require tug assistance. . Adjoining upland property is not entirely in the public domain. . Uplands ‘May be “classified as wetlands and therefore, may require an extensive environmental assessment to satisfy regulating agencies. -l 3- DRAWING 1 eae gape Li dsniinbhingpieatl LC AKUTAN PORT STUDY us Industriat ty {3 acres) port ih te Sh sags crv tie || (2) Peratrovich & Nottingham ATV Engineering Gonsutents SSS Drawn te 1506 West 36th Avenue Suite 101, ANCH. AK 9@503 Checked Proj No Gio Zh \ Phone (907) 272-8401 fom ‘f PRELIMINARY a wre) DEVELOPMENT PLAN Naan” ewe SECTION 3 PROJECT PLANNING A study of the construction suitability of the site's uplands indicates that approximately 50 acres are available for future development. Developing this site will require proper planning and preparation of flat land. PHYSICAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL LIMITATIONS Physical and environmental design constraints, including weather, topography and bathymetry will require a harmonious relationship between developer and the natural environment so that efficient and proper land use design can be achieved. Severe high winds are a common phenomena at the site and the direction and magnitude are ever-changing. The highest wind velocities regularly occur out of the south and are parallel to the beach at the head of Akutan Harbor. The most critical wind direction for a dock design would be out of the east-southeast as winds from this direction have been recorded at 80 MPH with considerable duration. The resulting waves occurring at the proposed dock site have been visually estimated to reach 3 to 6 feet. Tsunami (deep waves propagated by underwater land movement) records for Akutan Harbor are nonexistent but the lack of damage to older buildings in the area suggests Tsunami activity has been minor in the recent past. High winds on top of a big, high tide, have been observed to overtop the beach berm and cause partial flooding in the valley. This action will require that fill for the area be leveled to an elevation to avoid flooding. The bathymetry of Akutan Harbor limits the navigational flexibility of large quantity container ships which will support the port development. Defining a minimum navigable depth at -35 feet MLLW for these ships, results in a maneuvering width of approximately 1/3 mile. This available short turning radius will require tug assistance for larger ships. 14s Proper alignment of the dock to -35 feet MLLW will develop a still water mooring basin formed between the dock face and shore. This area can be used as a small boat harbor and staging area for seaplanes. As part of the project planning process, physical and environmental guidelines were established to maximize proper land use design: . Streams with,.anadromous spawning fish species must have buffer zones. e Minimal building development should occur in areas that may be subject to ocean flooding unless special consideration is made. e Wetlands could provide future areas for expansion but should not be considered in the initial development. . The unstable, tundra-covered, steep slopes of the valley walls are not suitable for construction and efforts should be made to minimize use of these areas. . Initial development should be limited to the higher and better drained area of the alluvial plain. . Land use planning should consider the handling of cargo and general operational ability of the dock. . Public storage areas for marine related services should be located away from residential development. . Small boat moorage and boat removal facilities should be provided along side of the commercial dock, but not to disturb operations of the dock. + Area for various types of housing should be provided to suit the local community. . Commercial/office area should be established near industrial development. -15- . Utility and fuel storage should be located away from development on cut borrow fill areas with gravity feed. + Floatplane access should be provided away from dock. . Public reserves should be established to provide areas where future municipal activities may occur. LEGAL AND ENVIRONMENTAL PERMITS In general, the legal requirements for the dock and the port facilities are those pertaining to permits and land ownership. The most crucial permit for this operation is a dredge and fill permit issued by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers. The Corps' objective in considering and issuing such permits is the control of the commerce and safety aspects of navigation and the control of the effect of the activity on the environment. In administering this program, the Corps uses extensively the expertise of other federal and State agencies and the expertise of the public. As a general rule, each regulatory agency requires detailed information in their area of concern before permits and licenses are issued. Due to the fact that the port facility site does not have a coastal management program, federal consistency requirements of the Federal Coastal Zone Management Act will govern regulations and guidelines. A partial listing of regulatory agencies having jurisdiction over Akutan Harbor follows: Army Corps of Engineers: - Wetlands Alaska Department of Environmental Conservation: « Water quality - Solid waste - Wastewater » Air quality -16- « Pesticides - Hazardous material + Food Service + Operation of processing plant Environmental Protection Agency: + General plant operations and disposals State Department of Fish and Game: - Fish dnd game considerations State Department of Natural Resources: + Land, water and mineral development -17- SECTION 4 CONSTRUCTION PHASING AND COST ESTIMATE CONSTRUCTION PHASING The phasing of the Akutan dock and port facilities can be viewed in the long- term of the dock's 50-year life and in the initial minimal development to establish a port facility. Work will begin with construction of the upland area. This will involve the clearing and grubbing and development of borrow sources as needed to develop road and staging areas. This work could begin as a separate contract in advance of the dock contract. The initial upland contract could consist of a 17-acre fill area (or less, depending on need) graded for proper drainage with associated roadways and approach roadways. Initial requirements for water, power and sewage systems could also be performed as part of this contract or with the dock construction. Support buildings could also be constructed any time following the construction of the staging area or as part of the dock contract. Table I indicates a preliminary estimate of the construction of the dock and upland development support facilities as required to support a 500,000-1b. (in- the-round) per day capacity seafood processing facility in 1981 dollars. The upland facilities shall include the cost of providing land suitable for construction, including; fill, utilities (water, sewer, and power) and road access. Fuel storage facility with transport lines will also be necessary. The dock estimate will include direct construction costs as well as support systems, such as water and fuel lines, a front-end loader and large crane for cargo handling, and some initial planning for on-off loading of fishing vessels including hydraulic hoists and supports for vacuum fish unloading machinery Additional costs such as housing and user developments will be based on a final processing capacity and therefore, are not within the scope of this study and will not be presented as part of this construction estimate. -18- TABLE I AKUTAN PORT STUDY PRELIMINARY COST ESTIMATE PHASE I CONSTRUCTION - 1981 DOLLARS Dock Facility $ 3,700,000 Equipment 1,400,000 Other Components + Mobilization 300,000 - Sanitary sewer facilities 800,000 - Water supply facilities 300,000 + Electrical facilities 600,000 - Fuel system an == 400,000 + Fill material 2,000,000 « Seaplane ramp 100,000 + Office & warehouse 300,000 - Drainage 100,000 PHASE I COST $10,000,000 Legal, engineering, construction management and contingencies 3,000,000 TOTAL $13,000,000 Long Term PHASE II CONSTRUCTION - 1981 DOLLARS Equipment $ 300,000 Other Components E . Mobilization : $ 100,000 . Sanitary sewer facilities 400,000 ° Water supply facilities 200,000 ° Electrical facilities 1,500,000 - Fill material 200,000 . Boat haulout 200,000 7 Boat harbor 200,000 . Drainage 100,000 PHASE II COST $ 3,200,000 Legal, engineering, construction management and contingencies 800,000 SUBTOTAL $ 4,000,000 PHASE I $13,000,000 PHASE IL 4,000,000 PROJECT TOTAL $17,000,000 Preliminary cost estimates account for utility development for site facilities only and does not include processor plant requirements. -19- SECTION 5 CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS CONCLUSION The construction of a multifunctional dock and preparation of upland area are the most important actions toward development of a port facility for Akutan Harbor. The existence of a well-planned dock and upland area suitable for construction will rapidly draw potential land leasers. The responsibility for primary development of roads, a community dock, fill, a water supply, sewage disposal system and reliable power source should be that of the City of Akutan. These developments will require adherence by all future leasees and the City of Akutan to a land use plan. Water demands will require further investigation in groundwater quantities. A preliminary investigation suggests the evidence of a substantial groundwater supply. An additional freshwater source could be developed by holding back surface water and piping as needed. Power sources in hydroelectric, and diesel generation should be further investigated, and alternate geothermal and wind generation could possibly contribute to the stability of electrical power needs. The climate and known tectonics of the island suggests some potential of these alternative energy sources. Proper land planning will be necessary for this port, and should be of primary importance to the City of Akutan. The City could develop housing and related support facilities (stores, restaurants, recreation, etc.) and lease them to processors, fishermen, and visitors. In addition, commercial offices and communication systems could be built and managed by the City of Akutan. The backbone of this entire development will be the planning for efficient and adequate upland areas. Initially, a van storage area with support facilities (maintenance, power, trucks, etc.) and a dock for handling containerized cargo -20- would be the minimum development to attract port users. A hydroelectric facility in the area proposed by Peratrovich & Nottingham could supply the electrical requirements necessary for this initial development. When a processor is chosen to work with the City of Akutan and fish production capabilities are finalized, the complete development could proceed as illustrated. The need for upland storage of frozen products is very apparent, as well as dedigating land so fishermen may store their gear. This land could be temporarily leased to these users until a final land use plan was accepted. The development of a bottomfish processing unit and support facilities at the head of Akutan Harbor will require the construction of a multifunctioning dock, utilization of available power source alternatives, and major upland development of lands that are suitable for construction. A year-round industry of this magnitude requires a steady, reliable and trained labor force. Success in this type of development requires planning to be based upon consideration for all the support materials and people. The City of Akutan has the rare opportunity to develop a world class fishing port from the ground up. The mistakes and time losses encountered by other ports throughout the world will be to the City's advantage as further investigations may capitalize on previous port developments. RECOMMENDATIONS This study is intended as an informational guide for the City of Akutan to use in pursuing further interest and involvement possibly with the State of Alaska for the development of a major port facility at Akutan Harbor. With the data presented within this report, the City of Akutan will be able to justify the further required studies so that phased construction may begin as soon as possible. -21- RECOMMENDED ADDITIONAL STUDIES a Determine the cost/benefits of initial and long-term development, prepare a marketing and economic feasibility study and examine the market for potential developers. . Prepare a comprehensive land use plan for future development. + Conduct ‘additional water supply and power source studies, in conjunction with additional soil testing. . Prepare management organization for the Akutan Port as a profit making entity. . If preceeding phases are positive, construct a dock and port facilities in Akutan Bay as illustrated in the Executive Summary. -22- Akutan Port Study { (2). Peratrovich & Nottingham ] | \ATY/ Engineering Consuttants | | 1506 West 36th Avenue Suite 101, ANCH. AK. 99803 | be Phone (907) 272-8401 J DRAWING 2 APPENDIX A DISCUSSION OF FIELD RECONNAISSANCE AND NATURAL CONDITIONS ON SITE This reconnaissance of prospective water supplies and earth fill materials for the proposed port facilities at Akutan was planned to collect preliminary data on freshwater atid fill-materials in the northwest end of Akutan Harbor. The scope of the reconnaissance was restricted to field observations related to available surface and subsurface water and geology in the area of the proposed port facilities. The two major streams entering the harbor in this area were measured for stream flow. Upland slopes were investigated to help make projections of depth of valley fill, and potential groundwater sources for the location. Sources of earth fill material and riprap were investigated. Effects from possible natural hazards were identified. WATER SUPPLY Three locations on each of the two major streams were inspected and estimates of quantity of water flowing were made. Two sets of water samples were taken - one at each stream. The smaller stream on the south side of the end of the bay had a recorded flow of approximately seven (7) cubic feet per second (3140 GPM) on the day ae sampling, while the larger stream on the north side of the bay had approximately eighteen (18) cubic feet per second (8080 GPM) at the same period. Water quality samples were taken at Station 3 on the smaller stream and Station 6 on the larger stream as shown on Drawing 3. The surface water quality is such. that only a minor amount of treatment would be necessary, such as chlorination to be potable. Earth fill material test holes will be only 20 feet deep. It is estimated that 10 to 20 test holes will be required to define satisfactory sand and gravel deposits. If required, the same rig and equipment could be employed to drill geotechnical test holes for foundation system design. Surface Water Projections of valley wall slopes of 30° into the subsurface, along with harbor bottom in the area estimated at 90 to 200 feet, suggest that valley fill thickness could range from 90 to 200 feet at the proposed port facility. Sand and gravels on the beach would indicate that aquifers capable of producing significant water may_exist in the subsurface. Bottom sediments in the existing stream support this contention, in that they range in particle size from medium and coarse sand to gravels with cobbles. The sandy gravel beach at the west end of the harbor provides additional insight into the probable character of the valley fill. Based on these observations it is expected that valley fill sediments would be interbedded sands and gravels with minor amounts of silt. The present "understanding of the valley fill material in the area is taken from surface observations described above. Information from the drilling of auger holes and test pits from previous work supports the information found in this reconnaissance. Several springs were noted in the flat area behind the barrier beach and near the foot of the upland hills (see Drawing 3). These springs support contention that groundwater exists in the valley fill sediments. A test drilling program is recommended to identify and prove groundwater supplies, and define sand and gravel deposits. The same drilling equipment can be used to do both. A track-mounted drill rig could be mobilized to drill both the groundwater and gravel deposits test holes. The drill rig and tools should have the capacity to drill to 200 feet. It is anticipated that a minimum of two deep holes (up to 200 feet) will be required. Additional deep holes (say two more) may be necessary to find or fully test the groundwater system in the valley. Although 200-foot depth capacity is called for, it is expected that the test holes will hit bedrock near 100 feet. FILL SUPPLY Earth Fill Materials Investigation of outcrops on the south and north valley walls disclosed that the steep vertical outcrops are very hard welded volcanic tuffs, dark gray to black in color. Gentle slopes may be supported by volcanic ash deposits. Excavation of the welded tuff material on either side of the end of the harbor would require blasting. The rock material would break up into 1 to 2 foot chunks with a few greater than 2 feet. This material would make good riprap. The non-weld tuff material between the welded tuff ledges would supply very poor fines which would degrade under dynamic loading to fine sands and silts. This material would not be good fill. A rock crusher to provide more acceptable fines from the weld tuff should be investigated. A good gravel source on the valley walls was not found. The only source of gravel and sand is expected to be in the valley floor. Upland areas in the larger stream valley on the north side may have gravel deposits but extensive test drilling would be required to establish such deposits. If acceptable deposits were found in the area, access roads ranging from Y, to 1 mile long would have to be constructed. It is possible that gravel sources exist in the valley bottom adjacent to the proposed development area, however, excavation would cause the development of a lake which would expand the size of the existing backwater pond in the area. Any excavation of gravel sources in the valley bottom would result in the occurrence of lakes at the excavation site. Because of the expected high permeability of the gravels and sands, excavation could be difficult and may require dredging procedures. NATURAL HAZARDS Natural hazards are common in the Aleutian Chain and Akutan Harbor, and proposed facilities are subject to these hazards. The following discussion of possible hazards are assessed in light of observations made during the field reconnaissance. Storms Most storms that hit the North American Continent begin and develop in the Aleutian Chain of which Akutan Island is a part. The landed barrier beach is a product of severe storms which occur at this island and Akutan Harbor. At the end of almost every harbor inlet on Akutan and Unalaska Islands landed barrier beaches are .in ,evidence. This elevated beach, higher than the valley floor behind it, is the result of severe storm effects. This elevated beach area builds up and is added to by storm waves. It is expected at times that storm waves will breach this higher barrier beach. Port facilities should be designed to minimize disastrous effects of these possible sea storms. Flooding Flooding originating from both sea storms and precipitation on the island is possible. Design of port facilities should consider that the top of the landed barrier beach is the expected high water mark for standing flood waters. Land Slides Large massive earth surface movement under gravity is not common in this harbor area. A small area on the upland hill side at Station 12 shown on the map is a thin surface phenomenon. Evidence of deep-seated slope failure is not present. The volcanic tuff that supports the steep topography in this valley does not lend itself to massive slope failures. Steep slopes left from proposed excavation should be dressed and cleared of loose rock. Earthquakes Earthquakes are common in the Aleutian Chain, and Akutan Island in particular. Damage to facilities due to earthquakes is possible. Design of the port facilities should consider possible dynamic seismic forces to be significant, and structural details should be designed to minimize critical damage that would undully endanger port facility personnel. Volcanic Eruptions This island owes its origin to volcanic activity, and an active volcano exists on the west side of the island. Hot springs in the general area and a plume of steam from the crater are ever-present reminders that increased volcanic activity could place existing and proposed facilities in danger. Figure 3.0 shows a view of a recent lava flow reported in 1974 and a small cinder cone. These features exist on the north side of the island. Design of port facilities should anticipate and program for these possibilities: . Earthquakes accompany volcanic activity. + Eruptions of lava and ash can change stream drainage patterns, cause flooding and alter land contours. . Evacuation of port facility personnel in case of advanced volcanism. . Protection of critical survival equipment such as communication and fire fighting equipment. . Fire hazards resulting from volcanic activity. Tsunami (Tidal Wave) Earthquakes and submarine landslides are identified as primary causes of tsunamis. No reports of significant tsunamis in recent history have been established. There was no evidence discovered of wave action above the normal high tide common in the area. It was reported by an observer on a processor near the west end of the harbor that a linear upwelling caused a small surface wave to propagate down the harbor. It is suspected this upwelling was caused by a submarine sediment slide off the steep submarine slope that occurs off the shore of this end of the harbor. No damage was reported from this minor wave. Greater effects may be forecast considering the earthquake and volcanism potential of the area. The east-west orientation of the harbor and Akun Island east of this harbor may protect the harbor from effects of tsunamis which have origins on other than Akutan and Akun Islands. However, tsunamis of local origins could cause significant damage to existing and proposed facilities. Figure 3.0 Recent volcanism on Akutan, upper view looking south at recent lava flow (report in 1974). Lower view looking south at recent cinder cone on north side of island. APPENDIX B STUDY METHODS AND ORGANIZATION In the process of collecting information towards providing the City of Akutan with preliminary plans, costs and recommendations, a variety of methods and sources were utilized. These methods are listed in chronological order: . Previous “Akutan file research . Development of questionnaire . Trip to Akutan (interviews, geotechnical survey) . Trip to Kodiak (groundfish processor interviews, tours) . Collection and review of data . Report and preliminary plans RESEARCH AVAILABLE INFORMATION Collection of data in the early stages of this study entailed the acquisition of maps, a thorough search of our files on Akutan; including a _ previous reconnaissance survey of topography and bathymetry, and also a preliminary dock design for Icicle Seafood, Inc. Peratrovich & Nottingham, Inc. interviewed representatives of the City of Akutan, researched land ownership, and held Numerous telephone conversations. Additionally, major permit and licensing agencies were contacted and a summary of these findings is presented under Section 3 (Legal and Permit Barriers) of this report. USER SURVEY QUESTIONNAIRE In an effort to obtain substantiated information on Akutan Harbor and determine potential user requirements, a questionnaire was prepared for sampling a wide range of users' opinions. The questionnaire was sent to approximately 50 individual organizations with the intention to get corroboration from several sources on pertinent questions to port development. The results have provided information in areas of interest, including processor requirements and fishermen needs. FIELD INTERVIEWS Numerous interviews with processor management representatives and fishermen in Akutan and Kodiak provided the data for plant capacities, unloading necessities, and general supplier-processor relationship requirements. The Kodiak tour included exposure to the highest technology in fish processing methods and equipment. * sone existing processors are converting operations to handle bottomfish, and during our interviews these plans were shared. The conversions involved the introduction of fish filleting machines and large capacity freezers which reduce labor and increase production capabilities. FIELD RECONNAISSANCE In indexing site conditions in this study, a professional geologist and a representative of Peratrovich & Nottingham made a site visitation. Results of this analysis are contained in Appendix A. EXAMPLE AKUTAN PORT STUDY QUESTIONNAIRE NAME TELEPHONE COMPANY ADDRESS - s 1. What minimum draft allowance for approach and at dockside would you recommend? 2. Do you have any knowledge of troublesome winds, currents, or obstructions in the Akutan bayhead area, specifically at proposed dock locations? 3. What normal unassisted turning radius does your ship require? 4. What ship size (length and tonnage) do you foresee as the maximum that may use a facility in Akutan? 5. 6. 10. What method of dock mounted cargo handling machinery do you think is most desirable? What primary dock facilities would your experience indicate to be most valuable? . r Would your ship ever require any of the following? a) Fuel Yes No b) Water (fresh) gallons per trip Yes No (salt) at dockside for washdown Yes No c) Waste Disposal Yes No d) Other Utilities Yes No (if yes, describe) What upland storage area size would be desirable for your use? acres sq.ft. Would you require any special equipment, facilities, ramps, etc., for passengers or freight? If so, please describe. What would be your non-dock transshipment needs (by seaplane)? produce frozen foods transportation misc. gear other ll. 12. 13. 14. 15. 16. 17. 18. What would be your needs for land-based transportation? seaplane truck other What would be your needs for land-based processing facilities? Could you use a facility for waste disposal (oil and/or solid waste)? Yes No Anticipating a reduction of dumping into Akutan Harbor, would you use a fish waste byproduct (carcass) facility? Yes No What would be your needs for land-based storage? equipment type food other What would be your needs for buildings, warehouses or other structures? Would you ever require repair facilities? If so, to what extent? What would be your vessel's processing and/or fish-in-the-round capacity? APPENDIX C CHEMICAL & GEOLOGICAL LABORATORIES Gr ALASKA, INC. t TELEPHONE (907)-279-4014 274-3364 Drinking Water Analysis Report for ANCHORAGE INDUSTRIAL CENTER 5633 B Street Inorganic, Organic, and Radiochemical Contaminants TO BE COMPLETED BY PUBLIC WATER SUPPLIER PUBLIC WATER SYSTEM: | | | a e 1.D. NO. - . Peratrovich & Nottingham, Inc. Public Water System Name 1506 West 36th Avenue, Suite 101 Address Anchorage Alaska 99503 City State Zip Code Note: Check box to left of contaminants listed below for the analyses desired. - - o SAMPLE DESCRIPTION: Collected By__P & N Inc. Large Creek, West Side Akutan Bay Sample Location 0 Ground Water Sample Date O15)". /22e5 [ ali Mo. c Day Year D Untreated Water = O Treated Water Source Type DD Surface Water (% Routine Sample © Special Purpose Sample ~ TO BE COMPLETED BY CERTIFIED LABORATORY CHEMICAL & GEOLOGICAL LABORATORIES OF ALASKA, INC. Station No. Laboratory Name Sample No. 5633 “B” STREET 7698-2 Address Laboratory Analysis No. ANCHORAGE, ALASKA 99502 LMG 6-1-81 City State Zip Code Received by Date ORGANICS Limit Moll INORGANICS O Endrin (0.0002)< 101, 1010/0}2 erst Mall 0 Lindane (0.004)</0}, |O}0\}4 . Limit 9 D Methoxychlor (0.1)<{o}_ 11 = Arsenic (0.05 jO |. 0 {1 O Toxaphene (0.005)<}0}.|O0}O|5 = tn (1K ; JAD 0 2, 4-D (0.1}< 10 1 admium (0.010 0 |. |O }2 |0 D 2,4,5 - TP Silvex 0.01 : D Chromium (0.05K [0]. Jo ]2 oO. ‘ (0-07 10) OU D Fluoride (2.4K | jo}. {110 DB 0 Iron (0.3) < Oke: O Lead (0.05) <|_O} . | O} 2 ~. O Manganese (0.05) <{_|o}.| 0} 1 RADIOACTIVITY Mercury (0.002) <|_O} . | O} O| 1 Limit pCill Nitrate - Nitrogen (10.)< oO}. | 1) 0 t@ Gross Alpha (15) [7]. [stelal st Oo Selenium (0.01) <|_O}. | O} 1 © Radium 226 & 228 (5) : a. (0.05) <|_0} . | O11 0 Gross Beta (50) : on (25) : cd? Q Strontium - 90 (8) Q Turbidity (me) FTP ol tata Sanaa ae | Oo L Oo Seis ND Indicates Not Detected 6-8-81 Archie L. pied at. tn at 6-10-81 Date Analysis Completed Signature of Laboratory Supervisor Date reported CHEMICAL & GEOLOGICAL LABORATORIES Or’ ALASKA, INC. ANCHORAGE INDUSTRIAL CENTER 5633 B Street TELEPHONE (907)-279-4014 274-3364 Drinking Water Analysis Report for Inorganic, Greate and Radiochemical Contaminants TO BE een By PUBLIC WATER SUPPLIER aah abe Le, PUBLIC WATER SYSTEM: SAMPLE DESCRIPTION: yeh 4 JUL 17 1981 PERATROVICH & P_& N Inc. Collected By . e 1.D. NO. ‘Small Creek, West Side Akutan Peratrovich & Nottingham, eee g Public Water System Name Tike A criiiy 2G, Sample Location 1506 West 36th Avenue, Suite 101 Source Type QO Surface Water D Ground Water Address Anchorage Alaska 99503 ‘ ai fe ae ; 1 | ample Date 7 City State Zip Code v8 = << O Untreated Water O Treated Water ~ & Routine Sample 0 Special Purpose Sample Note: Check box to left of contaminants listed below for the analyses desired. 7 TO BE COMPLETED BY CERTIFIED LABORATORY CHEMICAL & GEOLOGICAL LABORATORIES OF ALASKA, INC. Laboratory Name Sample No. Station No. 5633 “B” STREET 7698-1 Address Laboratory Analysis No. ANCHORAGE, ALASKA 99502 IMG 6-1-81 City State Zip Code Received by Date ORGANICS Limit Mgll INORGANICS D Endrin (0.0002)<{ of. | of of of 2] Limit Mgll D Lindane (0.004)<} 0}, | 0} O} 4 5 0 Methoxychlor (0.1)<|.0 aa Arsenic (0.05)<|0| .|0}1 0 Toxaphene (0.005)<] 0}, | | of 5 O Barium (4.)< [0]. 45 D 2, 4-D (0.1)<] Ol. | 1 D Cadmium (0.010)< {0}. JO]1]0 o2 : : ; ; 4,5 - TP Sil d OD Chromium (0.05)< [0]. [0/1] Oo : ao Rove eit O Fluoride (2.4)<{_ {0}. ]1/0 Oo 0 Iron (0.3)<|_ 0}. ]21 D Lead (0.05)< 0} .]O]2 oe (0.05)<|_ JO}. |O0/}1 RADIOACTIVITY Mercury (0.002)< | 0} .|0} 0/1 Limit pCill O Nitrate - Nitrogen (10.)< O}.}1/0 O Selenium (0.01)< {0}. |o}1 XX Gross Alpha (15) (Zlolof#]3 : D Radium 226 & 228 (5) O Silver (0.05)<{0}. | O}1 : D Gross Beta (50) O Sodium (250) Pa: i : O Strontium - 90 (8) Q Color __________(pcu) O|. OD Triti 20,000 O Turbidity (ntu) o].Jils D pea vos 5 Oo ; | ND Indicates Not Detected 6-8-81 Archie L. Green- ie Sint 6-10-81 Date Analysis Completed Signature of Laboratory Supervisor Date reported APPENDIX D “AKUTAN WAVE HINDCASTING Memo to: Bill Fetch = 6.3 nact. miles (from NOAA Chart 16532) “ r Design Wind Velocity for 1 hour duration = 100 mph (using estimates from interviews) 3 et esDesign Wave (fetch-limited) period = 5 secs ® length = 128 £t@ = = .468 - 1 so this is a deep water wave, and fetch is placed at correct distance from north shore. rja eeDesign Wave Height = 8 ft. References: , Ocern- -I-7 “Revised Method for Wave Forecasting in Deep Water” 3/81, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, Coastal Engineering Research Center, Fort Belvoir, VA. Figure 1 (see Gilman). @shore Protection Manual, Vol. 1, 1977, U.S. Army Corps of Engineers, CERC, Fort Belvoir, VA. Pages 2-9, 2-10 (see Gilman). BIBLIOGRAPHY Alaska Department of Community & Regional Affairs, Division of Community Planning. 1979. Community Planning and Development for the Bottomfish Industry: Phase 1 Report. Combs, Earl R., Inc.1980. System strategy for development of public facilities to support seafood production from Alaska-Phase 1 progress report. . e Denconsult A/S ltd. 1978 Alaska Bottomfish Industry-Report to Arthur D. Little, Inc. Denconsult A/S Ltd., 1978 Community Planning for Bottomfish Development - State of Alaska Executive Summary. Little, Arthur D., Inc. 1978. The Development of a Bottomfish Industry: Strategies for The State of Alaska - Executive Summary, Volume One. Little, Arthur D., Inc. 1978. The Development of Bottomfish PSE Strategies for the State of Alaska Technical Appendix, Volume Two. Rodgers, George W. PhD. 1979. Critique of the Arthur D. Little, Inc. Analysis and Recommendations. for State Policy and Directions for Developing a Bottomfish Industry for Alaska. Alaska Legislative Affairs Agency. Shorett & Reilly. 1980. Appraisal of Cannery Sites - Akutan Bay, Akutan, Alaska. Peratrovich & Nottingham, Inc., Preliminary Report, Akutan Site Surveys and Preliminary Dock Design, 1980. DRAWING 3 | AKUTANPORT STUDY ~—_—*iY ____AND PRELIMINARY DESIGN ss) [ 2) Peratrovien & Nottingham \CTY Engineering Constants ot | | 1506 West 36th Avenue Suite 101, ANCH. AK. 99503 Phone (907) 272-8491 Drawn iat i ] at 5 (Water Supply & Ea \ Material Field Reconaissance vt inz | o zy. = || <. ds 4 & a st | Pa sere ys PROPOSED AKUTAN CITY DOCK He 8 ii Bl 3 1) Cu 2 1} Sy) < {} sea 1} Oar? 1) eee iia 3b: Sle? 1 Si 1} @ls ~@ | ey \ eile dethciclake | Phone (907) 272-8491 Nee eee lage dhcp: € \ 4 (Pres —— J —— ——-. {]t eee, . ( | 1. TOPOGRAPHIC MAP LEGEND MM Steep Sloped | Wi Moderately Sioped Areas Subject To Flooding ciate es ete ay ' AKUTAN PORT STUDY .C___AND PRELIMINARY DESIGN __ Cee ewe | >) Peratrovich & Nottingham | Prewwn’ CA) Engineering Consuttants 5 | Lepernes | 1806 West 36th Avenue Suite 101, ANCH. AK 99503 [Proj wo BOZ! J |. Phone (907) 272-8404 fou 2-«2){ | TOPOGRAPHY AND \ (ae Leo item’) | DRAINAGE ANALYSIS “ ~~ AKUTAN PORT STUDY ND PRELIMINARY DESIGN Engineering Consultant s 1506 West 36th Avenue Suite 101, ANCH. AK. 99503 Phone (907) 272 ORR PAT tg aT wa TE fea ee p : j f yy ‘tbe? 2 al a ” AKUTAN PORT STUDY — AND PRELIMINARY DESIGN __ Peratrovich & Nottingham Engineering Consuttants st 36th Avenve Suite 101, ANCH. AK. 99503 907) 272-8401