HomeMy WebLinkAbout1982 Environmental Baseline Data Collection Program UnalaskaPrepared for
Republic Geothermal,
and
Inc.
Alaska Power Authority
1982 ENVIRONMENTAL BASELINE DATA
COLLECTION PROGRAM
FINAL REPORT
February 1,1983
Dames &oore
fp tekadvw
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND......
2.0 STUDY PLAN AND RESULTS ..1.6 «eo e
2.1 WATER QUALITY e e e e e e e e °e Ld e Ld
2.1.1 Introduction ...._ee 8
2.1.2 Results ...26.«ee ee we
2.2 AQUATIC BIOLOGY ......see we ew
2.2.1 Introduction ....2.«««»
2.2.2 Results ..2.6 6 ee ew we we we
2.3 BIRDS,MAMMALS AND VEGETATION .ee oe
2.35.1 Introduction ....2.2 we we we
2.2 e2 Results e e e °e e e J °°e e e
2 4 ARCHAEOLOGY e e .e e e e os s e CJ e e e
2.4.1 Introduction......eee e
2.4.2 Results e e .e es e e c e e e e
3.0 CONCLUSIONS &RECOMMENDATIONS .....
3.1 ROAD CONSTRUCTION .2.2.2.2 ew we we woe
3.1.1 Water Quality .....-seeee
3.1.2 Aquatic Biology .....s.ee-
3.1.3 Birds and Tererestrial Biology .
3.1.4 Archaeology .....-«e-ce-s
3.2 WELL SITE CONSTRUCTION,WELL DRILLING AN
2.1 Water Quality ......2..
2.2 Aquatic Biology .....2.e.
.2e5 Birds and Terrestrial Biology
2.4 Archaeology ....+.«.2e-e
4.0 REFERENCES .2.6 2 we ee we we we ww
APPENDIX A -ALASKA POWER AUTHORITY UNALASKA
GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED
APPENDIX B =WATER QUALITY
APPENDIX C -AQUATIC BIOLOGY eee@@oo@@ee@@ooeee@ee8@eo@¢@@eee@eoee8@D WELL TESTING..
GEOTHERMAL PROJECT:
FIELD OPERATIONS.
Page
LIST OF TABLES,FIGURES AND PLATES
Table
1 -Classification of Vegetation-Types with Map Codes
Figure
1 -Unalaska Island Vicinity Map ...2...««we.
Sample Station Locations -May...a er er
Sample Station Locations September .......
Makushin Project Area,Unalaska Island
Terrestrial Habitat Types,Access Route,Drill Pad
Locations,and Environmental Sampling Stations,
Makushin Valley
Terrestrial Habitat Types,Access Route,Drill Pad
Locations,and Environmental Sampling Stations,
Driftwood Bay Valley
Terrestrial Habitat Types,Access Route,Drill Pad
Locations,and Environmental Sampling Stations,
Glacier Valley
ii
Page
11
wes
1.0 INTRODUCTION AND BACKGROUND
Republic Geothermal,Inc.(Republic)of Santa Fe Springs,California,is
under a 2-year contract to the Alaska Power Authority (APA)to explore
for geothermal resources on the eastern flanks of Makushin Volcano on
Unalaska Island (Figure 1).Republic has subcontracted with Dames &Moore to
provide permit guidance,logistics coordination,geotechnical engineering
services,and an environmental baseline data collection program in support of
Republic's exploration activities.This report presents the results of the
environmental baseline data collection program conducted by Dames &Moore
during the 1982 field season.
The geothermal resource exploratory operations on Unalaska were designed
to be conducted in three stages:initial geologic exploratory work,temper-
ature gradient hole (TGH)operations,and drilling of one deep exploratory
well.The first two stages were to be conducted during the 1982 field
season,and the third stage was proposed for the 1983 field season.As
originally proposed,all operations were to be supported by helicopter and
personnel were to be stationed in a field camp.The initial geologic explor-
atory work was to be conducted on foot.Eleven alternative locations
for three temperature gradient holes were proposed within the geothermal
exploration area.Three holes were to be drilled by a small drilling rig
from a small pad cleared by hand as necessary.One deep well was to be
drilled in the vicinity of one of the three TGH sites.The deep well would
require a much larger drilling rig,a much larger crew,and a cleared,
leveled pad-of about 2 acres.A more complete description of operations can
be found in Appendix A,"Alaska Power Authority Unalaska Geothermal Project:
General Description of Proposed Field Operations."Plate 1 shows the area of
proposed operations in detail.
In accordance with the APA contract,Dames &Moore was requested by
Republic to design and implement an environmental baseline data collection
program that could:1)provide data useful in the location and design of
proposed operations;2)acquire that environmental information which is,or
may be,required by permit-issuing agencies or other interested parties;and
3)establish an environmental data base upon which to judge the impacts of
operations.Thus,Dames &Moore based design of the program upon the results
of an analysis that combined the known (or assumed)characteristics of the
area's environment,the potential requirements of the regulatory agencies,
and the design and potential impact of the proposed operations.
Preliminary investigations established that data on the existing
environment of Unalaska Island were sparse,and that site-specific informa-
tion was essentially non-existent.It was known that precipitation fell as
snow during the winter months and as drizzle at other times.At elevations
above 2,000 feet the snow accumulation was large and remained on the ground
into late summer.High winds were very common and were more frequent during
fall and early winter.Though few records regarding air quality had been
kept,there were no significant sources of air pollution in the area.
The volcanic rocks of the area were highly dissected by rivers and
streams,so as to create moderately rugged topography.Soils were thought to
be reasonably well developed.The major rivers in the area headed on the
slopes of Makushin Volcano and were fed by snowmelt or melting glacial ice.
Two water samples,collected by geothermal investigators from the Alaska
Division of Geological and Geophysical Surveys,indicated that water quality
in the Glacier Valley and Driftwood Bay rivers was very good.
The area above the 1,000-foot elevation on the slopes of Makushin
Volcano was characterized by a sparse biota.Vegetated areas,consisting
mostly of heath and tundra,were apparently few and scattered.Trees were
apparently nonexistent on the slopes of the volcano or anywhere in the
Aleutians.
Two mammal species,the Arctic fox (Alopex lagopus)and ground squirrel
(Citellus undulatus),and one land bird species,rock ptarmigan (Lagopus
mutus),were thought to be present throughout Unalaska Island.The United
States Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS)was interested in any information
regarding sightings of the marbled murrelet (Brachyramphus marmoratum),which
they thought might be present on the island and nest at these elevations.
The construction of a road up any of the three valleys could produce addi-
tional significant environmental impacts.Road construction and use could
produce additional points of impact to water quality and freshwater aquatic
biology resources.Barge off-loading areas and roadheads could potentially
impact sensitive shoreline resources,such as seabird rookeries,and cultural
resources.Road construction and use could also impact potentially sensitive
terrestrial habitats,such as wetlands,or threatened,rare,or endangered
species.
To continue to meet the three original objectives of the environmental
baseline data collection program,the program's design was expanded in scope
to include significant investigations into the potential for impacts to
terrestrial habitat quality;threatened,rare,or endangered species;and
cultural resources.The scope of the water quality and freshwater aquatic
biology programs was also increased to include the new points of potential
impact.
The following chapters present the environmental baseline data collec-
tion plan and results by discipline (water quality;aquatic biology;birds,
mammals,and vegetation;and archaeology)and conclusions and recommendations
regarding impact mitigation and impact monitoring for the phases of the
operations (road construction,wellsite construction and drilling,and well
testing).Only that information related to the design,implementation,and
results of the environmental baseline data collection program is included in
this report.Information regarding other services provided to Republic by
Dames &Moore,including permit guidance,logistics coordination,and geo-
technical engineering,will be included as a part of Republic's Final Report
of Phase I-B Activities,to be delivered to the APA in 1983.Also included
in Republic's Final Report will be a more comprehensive report on the results
of monitoring the impacts of the TGH drilling operations,and a discussion
of environmental impact monitoring,environmental impact mitigation,and
emergency contingency programs for the 1983 deep well drilling and testing
operations.
SAMPLE STATION LOCATIONS -MAY
A Primary Sample Station
@ Potential Temperature Gradient Hole
@ Camp
DRIFTWOOD
BAYtesAareaegoreatao
hae rife.wmete es .Onoon,
"°
:DW
ev Jonanace BASIN
BOUNDARIESGLACIER(
VALLEY {
Figure 2
UNALASKA ISLAND
-MAKUSHINMVVALLEY wn
f)
ren 57. e, AS8we,oefeaeose
eenn RIVER wd¥efweae
a=
:
0 5 MILESeewereene0§KILOMETERS
secondary sample stations during two field trips.The intent was to
establish primary stations on the major streams downstream from the areas of
potential impact and secondary stations on tributaries of the major streams
closer to the potential TGH.Field parameters -flow,dissolved oxygen,pH,
conductivity,temperature,alkalinity,turbidity,and settleable solids --
were to be measured at both primary and secondary sample stations.The
remaining parameters to be measured at primary sample stations included those
listed in Appendix B,as well as fecal coliform bacteria and chemical oxygen
demand.An Organic Sediment Index (OSI)was measured at each primary
station during the first field trip.Total suspended solids,nitrate,and
orthophosphate,in addition to the field parameters,were to be measured at
secondary stations.
Water quality sample stations were based on potential TGH locations.
Figure 2 presents the 11 potential TGH locations that existed in May 1982,
and the various drainages (Makushin,Driftwood,and Glacier)that would be
affected by drilling at these TGHs.Specific stations were selected in the
field in May based on drainage direction from and proximity to the TGH and on
advice given by Republic.
The proposed scope of the water quality investigation was amended in
the field during the May field trip.Subsequent to inspection flights and
advice from Republic,five primary sample stations were selectedand sampled,
and the secondary stations were eliminated.Upstream secondary stations were
not accessible to sampling because the snow pack above camp (elevation 1250
feet)was deep and most small tributaries were covered with snow.The five
primary stations established were Makushin Valley (MV),below base camp (BC),
Glacier Valley (GV),an eastern Driftwood Bay valley stream (DE),and a more
western Driftwood Bay valley stream (DW)(Figure 2).The proposed scope was
also amended by the addition of eight parameters.Republic recommended that
the streams be analyzed for additional elements potentially found in geo-
thermal waters (lithium,cerium,germanium,lanthanum,antimony,titanium,
vanadium,and bromide).
Figure 3
SAMPLE STATION LOCATIONS -SEPTEMBER
A Primary Sample Station
4 Secondary Sample Station
@ Temperature Gradient Hole
H Camp
DRIFTWOOD
ae BAY oer,
*.(oedes|
wyransf”iyae,wats(Je -"_> am S o _MAKUSHIN Jeony
=VALLEY Bee
-Stuns BASIN \BOUNDARIES :
GLACIER (
VALLEY {
|§MILES
§KILOMETERS
during both field trips are:OW-2.0 to 3.1 cfspsm,MV-4.4 to 21,BC-2.0 to
17,and GV-3.7 to 49,
Water Quality .
The chemical characteristics of the water in all three drainages
changed between May and September.The changes correspond to the changes
in flow.That is,mineralization decreased from May to September,whereas
turbidity and suspended solids increased.These responses are typical when
discharge increases.Turbidity and suspended solids levels were generally
low except at the GV and GW stations,which displayed the highest levels of
these parameters because of glacial influence.The suspended particles were
light weight at GV and GW and did not settle in an Imhoff cone in one hour.
Consequently,settleable solids were less than the detection limit of 0.1
milliliters per liter (ml/1)at these stations and all the other stations.
Also,none of the primary stations exhibited any color.Turbidity and
suspended solids:levels correlate marginally well to each other (Appendix
B).
As noted above,mineralization decreased from May to September
corresponding to an increase in flow.Conductivity,total dissolved solids,
and hardness levels,as well as many trace element concentrations,displayed
a decrease.The GV and BC stations exhibited the highest levels of mineral-
ization.These stations also receive apparently significant inflow from
geothermal manifestations.
Most trace elements and metals exhibited low levels at most of the:
primary sample stations.A number of elements displayed concentrations
equal to or less than their respective detection limits during the May
sample period.These elements were bromide,beryllium,cadmium,cerium,
germanium,lanthanum,mercury,molybdenum,selenium,silver,and titanium.
These elements were not analyzed in samples collected in September because
they typically become diluted when flow increases.Boron concentrations were
13
Nutrient levels were generally low in May.Nitrogen species were
virtually absent at all stations.and:phosphate levels were low everywhere
except at the DE station.Organic nitrogen (the difference between total
Kjeldahl nitrogen and ammonia)and phosphate concentrations were high in
September.This nutrient loading undoubtedly comes from terrestrial runoff.
Fecal coliform bacteria were not detected at any of the primary stations
during either of the two field trips.
2.2 AQUATIC BIOLOGY -
2.2.1 Introduction
Impacts to aquatic biology can result from the discharge or leaching
of liquid or solid waste (e.g.sanitary,drilling mud,geothermal fluid),
runoff from disturbed areas,and from operations near or within the wetted
perimeter (e.g.water withdrawal,fording,culvert placement).The fresh-
water biology issue centers around salmon and other fishes in the streams of
the exploration area.
Pink salmon (Oncorhynchus gorbuscha),silver or coho salmon (oO.
kisutch),and Dolly Varden char (Salvelinus malma)are anadromous members of
the salmon family (i.e.salmonids),returning to streams and rivers to spawn
in late summer and fall.The fry of pink salmon outmigrate directly to the
sea very soon after hatching and emerging from the gravel in the spring.
Silver salmon fry usually remain in fresh water for one year before outmi-
gration.Dolly Varden char spend perhaps 3 years in the stream before
outmigration,or may reside continuously in fresh water (Hart 1973).
Alaska Fisheries Atlas Volumes I and II (State of Alaska 1978a)indicate
that pink salmon spawn in Makushin Valley River,Nateekin River,the streams
of Humpback Bay,and elsewhere on Unalaska Island.However,the upstream
limit to the presence of pink salmon is unknown.Silver salmon and sockeye
salmon (oO.nerka)occur on Unalaska Island,but have not been observed in the
potentially impacted streams.Dolly Varden char are present in the streams
15
The aerial survey,conducted on September 3,1982,indicated that
approximately 43,000 adult pink salmon were present in the Makushin Valley
stream (Appendix C).
Driftwood Bay
The main (western)Driftwood Bay stream flows northward from Makushin
Volcano,emptying into Driftwood Bay (Plate 1).The headwaters flow through
deep canyons on the slope of the volcano,and through V-shaped notches on the
plateau/saddle near Sugarloaf Cone.After descending from the slopes,the
stream flows across a wide valley floor.It appears to meander less than
does the Makushin Valley stream,and much less than does the Glacier Valley
stream.The old road to the airstrip in Driftwood Valley is visible and
driveable for almost all of its length,across the valley floor and up the
slope toward Sugarloaf Cone.The road crosses the stream once.The cul-
verted crossing structure has been washed away,but large pieces of culvert
remain at the site.
During the evolution of the geothermal exploration program,it
developed that the actual site of TGH 1 (Fox Canyon)was in the drainage of
Makushin Valley rather than in Driftwood Bay valley.Nevertheless,it is
possible that 1983 deep well activity may occur in the Driftwood Bay drain-
age.Two stations were sampled in mid-May:Oriftwood West (DW)station was
near the old road crossing in the mainstem of the large stream,which flows
down the middle of the valley floor;Driftwood East (DE)appeared,during bad
weather,to be in the lesser,more eastern stream,but was actually further
downstream on the same river (Plate 3).In early September,only station DW
was sampled;no geothermal exploration activity is anticipated to occur in
the drainage of the smaller stream.Station DW (and most of the stream on
the broad valley floor)was characterized by slower current,smaller sub-
strate and more,larger pools than were any of the other stations in the
other valleys.
Fish passage barriers (e.g.falls)were present in the mainstem and
most tributaries where they descended from the highlands (Plate 3).No
barriers were present between the highlands and tidewater.
19
Fish passage barriers (e.g.falls)occurred in the headwaters,but no
barriers were apparent between TGH 3 and tidewater (Plate 4).
Dolly Varden char were captured and pink salmon were observed in theGlacierValleystream.Records of capture (Appendix C)indicate that Dolly
Varden char were relatively less abundant at station GV than at stations MV
or DW.One juvenile Dolly Varden char was captured in the eastern tributary
below TGH 3:this,plus the absence of barriers,implies that this species
may occur further up both tributaries,closer to the drill site.
The aerial survey indicated that approximately 17,500 adult pink salmon
were present in the clearwater tributaries low in the valley (Appendix C).
2.3 BIRDS,MAMMALS AND VEGETATION
2.3e1 Introduction
Aerial and ground reconnaissance of selected areas on Unalaska Island
was conducted on August 27-30,1982.The baseline survey emphasized identi-
fication of environmentally sensitive areas or other constraints that could
influence the selection of alternative road routes,road alignments,or other
aspects of road use.
Sites of investigation were limited to the following:
)Glacier Valley from tidewater to TGH site 3.
)Driftwood Bay valley from tidewater to TGH site 1.
fs)Makushin Valley from tidewater to TGH site 1.
0 Vicinity of camp and TGH site 2.
At least two aerial helicopter surveys were flown over each of the above
areas.Special emphasis during aerial survey was given to observations of
21
Vegetation along the prospective road routes was mapped using color
aerial photos as a base.Ground-truthing of the vegetation types as inter-
preted from the photos was conducted during the above-described field
observations.Vegetation classifications are from Viereck et al.(1981)with
some modification.
2.3.2 Results
Birds
As anticipated,the greatest number of birds was associated with
coastal habitats.Glaucus-winged gulls (Larus glaucescens),bald eagles
(Haliaeetus leucocephalus),and ravens (Corvus corax)were concentrated at
the mouth and lower stream reaches of the rivers within each of the valleys
investigated.These birds were attracted by spawning pink salmon within the
main streams and tributaries.The greatest concentration of gulls (several
hundred)was observed at the mouth of the Makushin River Valley,whereas the
greatest number of bald eagles (20)was seen in Glacier Valley.Eagles were
also observed roosting on cliffs at the valley margins.
A bald eagle nest was observed near the top of the cliffs that form the
east margin of Glacier Valley.This nest was not observed during aprevious
nest survey conducted by Nysewander et al.(1982).Amother nest observed byNysewanderetal.(1982)on bluffs at the west margin of Glacier Valley
was not seen during this survey.Eagle nests were not observed at any of the
other study areas although suitable habitat exists adjacent to Makushin and
Driftwood Valleys.Cliff nests of bald eagles are often difficult to dis-
tinguish because sticks and other debris that typically distinguish eagle
nests are not readily available to the birds and nests may consist of a
bare rock platform.
Seabirds that nest and/or roost on steep,rocky coastal areas were
observed at several locations.The most notable of these included pelagic
cormorants (Phalacrocorax pelagicus)roosting on rocks and pinnacles at
the south margin of Makushin Valley,puffins (Fratercula cirrhata,F.
23
pincomBald Eagle (Haliaeetus leucocephalus)-Bald eagles were commonly
observed along salmon spawning streams and roosting on sea cliffs.About 20
eagles were seen in the Glacier Valley area,six eagles in the Makushin
Valley,and two eagles in Driftwood Valley.The ratio of mature to immature
birds was about 2:3.An eagle nest was observed near the top of the cliff
that forms the eastern seaside margin of Glacier Valley.
Gyrfalcon (Falco rusticolus)-A pair of these birds was observed near
the camp area and another sighting was made near the Driftwood/Makushin
divide.The birds appeared to be hunting for ground squirrels.-
Shorebird (unidentified,large)-A bird about the size and shape of a
whimbrell (Numenius phaeopus)was observed on alpine tundra near the
Driftwood/Makushin divide.
Common Snipe (Gallinago gallinago)-One bird was observed on the
Glacier Valley floodplain.
Glaucus-winged Gull (Harus glaucescens)-This bird was commonly observ-
ed at all seashore areas and along the lower reaches of streams containing
spawning salmon.The largest concentration (up to 300)was observed on the
beach at the mouth of Makushin River.Smaller groups were seen at the mouth
of Glacier Valley stream and along spawning areas of Driftwood Bay stream.
Black-legged Kittiwake (Rissa tridactyla)-Substantial numbers of these
birds were observed rafted offshore from the Makushin River mouth in Broad
Bay.
Puffin (Fratercula cirrhata,F.corniculata)-Up to 50 puffins were
observed roosting on or flying adjacent to the very high cliffs that mark the
east margin of Driftwood Bay valley.The primary roosting area appeared to
be on the upper portion of the cliff at an elevation of 700 to 1000 feet.
Close observations were not possible.It is likely that the species observed
was the horned puffin rather than the tufted puffin since the latter usually
associates in larger,more concentrated colonies.
25
were also seen in low numbers on the Makushin Valley floodplain in locations
where there was sufficient depth of soil above the water level to allow
burrowing.Use of the latter habitat type by squirrels is atypical and may
suggest that populations are sufficiently high to cause use of marginal
habitats.
Arctic fox tracks were observed within a wide variety of habitats from
sea level to alpine tundra.The only fox actually seen was an animal which
visited the camp on two nights in search of food.Camp personnel were
instructed on how to discourage this activity.-
Marine Mammals
Marine mammals observed during the reconnaissance included Stellar's sea
lions (Eumetopias jubatus)and harbor seals (Phoca vitulina).Four sea lions
were observed swimming in Broad Bay near the mouth of the Makushin River.
Harbor seals were observed at the mouths of Makushin River and Glacier Valley
stream (three animals at each location).The seals were in very shallow
water and one animal was up river a distance of.100 feet.Presumably,the
harbor seals were feeding on salmon.
Vegetation
Vegetation maps of the three primary road corridor alternatives are
presented in Plates 2 through 4.Table 1 describes the vegetation types
used in the mapping.The vegetation mapping is not completely satisfactory
because of the difficulty in distinguishing between different tundra and
meadow vegetation types on the aerial photos.The mapping is,therefore,
very general and should not be used for detailed planning.
The primary road alternatives traverse geomorphologically similar river
valleys before ascending to higher plateaus.Consequently,the patterns of
vegetation are similar for each route.A generalized description of vegeta-
tion types starting at sea level and proceeding inland is as follows:
27
TABLE 1
CLASSIFICATION OF VEGETATION TYPES*WITH MAP CODES
Level I Level II Level III Level IV Map Code
Herbaceous Tall grass Elymus Coastal Elymus TG
Vegetation
Sedge-grass Sedge-grass WM
wet meadow
Midgrass Mesic Midgrass-MM1
midgrass herb (Type 1)-
Midgrass-m2
herb (Type 2)
Sedge-grass Sedge-grass .Tundra
tundra
Shrub land Dwarf shrub Mat and cushion Tundra
:tundra
¥Plant classification system from Viereck et al.(1981).The Viereck system
describes all Alaska plant communities using a five-level hierarchial
classification.Level I,the most general level,describes communities on
the basis of life form,e.g,forest,shrubland,herbaceous vegetation and
aquatic vegetation.Each of the above categories are further subdivided
into more specific categories (Level II),which are in turn subdivided
(Level III)and so on.The above table only repeats from the Viereck
classification those plant formations applicable to the study area.
28
Tall grass dominated by beach rye (Elymus arenarius)occupies a
narrow zone from the upper beach to the inland side of the
foredune.This zone is usually less than 200 feet wide but can be
substantially wider.Beach rye reaches a height of 6 feet in this
distinctive community.
A substantial portion of the seaward end of each river valley
studied was dominated by a wet meadow community with uniform cover
of grasses and sedges.In Driftwood Bay valley the wet meadow
community extends from the inland side of the foredune up the
valley for a distance of about 3/4 mile.In Makushin and Glacier
Valleys the wet meadow type is discontinuous and covers a smaller
proportion of the total area.Wet meadows are the only major
wetland vegetation type encountered by the proposed road corridors.
The dominant vegetation type in the valleys is variable,consisting
of mid-length grasses and a mixture of herbaceous species such as
lupine (Lupinus nootkatensis)and fireweed (Epilobium angusti-
folium).Widely scattered clumps of willows (Salix spp.)to 6 feet
tall are present in upper valley portions of this type.Underlying.
spoils consist of coarse alluvium and standing water is generally
not present;therefore,this vegetation type cannot be considered a
wetland and for purposes of this classification is called mesic
"midgrass-herb (Type 1).
Another type of mesic midgrass-herb vegetation (Type 2)is found
on the slopes ascending from the floodplains.This relatively
uniform vegetation type consists almost entirely of grasses and
sedges and is best typified by the slope overlooking the Driftwood
Bay valley where the existing road begins its ascent up out of the
valley bottom,
The remaining vegetation on Unalaska Island,covering essentially
all vegetated portions of the interior,can be considered as
tundra.The tundra can be divided into two primary types using the
29
burials,stone tools,and carved bone or ivory artifacts of amazing diver-
sity.Sites in the Dutch Harbor/Unalaska region consist of these later site
types.The most comprehensive excavations have been conducted at Chaluka
(Umnak Island)and at several localities on Amchitka Island.Collections
that have only been recently published are taken from Port Moller,the
northern extent of Aleut influence.The beginning dates average about 3500
years B.P.(Dumond 1977).It is these people who first greeted Russian
explorers to the region.
Historic period archaeological investigations,except for the extensive
work of Veltre (1979),are few.The effects of Russian contact are best
assessed from numerous written documents.Contact began with the explor-
ations of Bering and Chirikof in 1741.Unalaska was first contacted in 1759.
These contacts were made and financed with fur pelts taken during each
voyage.Aleut families were harshly affected by the Russian practice of
indenturing native men to hunt sea otters.Unalaska had one of the smallest
garrisons of Russians,but the long-term effect included a sharp decline in
the Aleut population by 1839.Davydov (1977)noted this population drop
in his 1806 assessment.The eventual lack of financial success in the later
years of the Russian-American Company released the native population from
continued adverse effects of this forced contact (Tikmenev 1978).
Continued adverse effects on the Aleut population resulted during the
American Period from World War II.While Unalaska was not taken by the
Japanese,the impact of United States defensive action was swift.Many
archaeological sites on Unalaska were adversely affected by heavy equipment
activities and military personnel who disturbed sites in search of artifacts.
No concentrated program of archaeological preservation is in force in the
Aleutians.Thus,although the post-war population of the archipelago is
less,continued pilfering,coupled with natural erosion forces,are con-
tributing to the further loss of finite archaeological and historical
resources.
The cultural resource evaluations were conducted under Federal
Antiquities Permit #82-AK-242 and Fish and Wildlife Service Special Use
31
2.4.2 Results
Corridor to Driftwood Bay
Both moderate and low altitude helicopter surveys were conducted
along the existing road through the valley to Driftwood Bay.Pedestrian
reconnaissance was undertaken from a point beginning at the cliffs at the
northeast end of the bay along 75 percent of the high energy beach.The
entire length of the road was given pedestrian survey and all adjacent high
points,such as terraces and ridges were examined.Rock outcrops were
examined for potential artifact material quarries,but no preforms were found
nor was the weathered granitic and basaltic rock conducive to such artifact
manufacture.
Deviation from the existing road encompassed no more than 80 to 160 feet
on either side of the roadway.Findings were entirely negative,even though
the existence of vantage points and bedrock outcrops overlooking a productive
salmon stream might be considered of moderate archaeological site potential.
Makushin Valley to Operations Camp
Although the exact route is unknown at this time,the area is of low
archaeological potential.The route would certainly traverse a steep slope.
Reconnaissance consisted of low altitude helicopter survey.Two flat areas
were examined on the ground,but no sites were detected.
Tributary Stream from the Operations Camp
Although no development is planned for this area,survey included
pedestrian examination of several rock overhangs that could have served as
shelters.The reconnaissance route extended about 2 miles downstream from
camp toward Makushin Valley.All overhangs were examined and limited trowel
testing was performed in each,but with no findings that might indicate past
human occupation.
33
Makushin still contains many historic structures.Although the brief
field visit conducted during this project failed to locate an undeniable
prehistoric component,the mass of shellfish remains located along the beach
attest to the potential for such an older occupation.
49-UNL-G16/Nateekin:Also listed as Neveechin (Bank 1968).This
site,first reported by Dall (1873)is the same as reported by Bank (1971).
It is likely a prehistoric locality (McCartney 1972).Two localities astride
a stream are mapped for this site by Bank (1974)which he describes as "an
interesting prehistoric mound,mostly still intact,...situated above the
present beach line."Also see Orth (1971).
This locality was visited during project reconnaissance.The site has
not changed since the visits and description by Bank (1974).The large
midden deposit,located on the north side of the stream,is up to 16 feet
high and heavily vegetated.Aerial review located at least four rectangular
depressions of house remains.Behind these are three or four additional but
smaller and circular depressions that likely served a storage capacity.A
second shell midden is located south and across the stream.
NateekinBay is a well-protected locality and no erosion of the site is
evident at this time.
49-UNL-017/Cheerful:Old village site listed by Sarychev (1826).
See Orth (1971).
49-UNL-019/Eider Point:A large midden site,also called
Pestriakoff (Dall 1873).First noted as occupied by Sarychev (1826)and said
to have five huts and 37 people (Veniaminov 1840).Described and tested by
Bank (1953a,b).Bank (1972)obtained a date of 650 +150 radiocarbon years
B.P.The site was visited by McCartney (1972)and he describes the deposit
as being about 30 feet deep.
Although inclement weather did not permit an aircraft landing,the site
was viewed from the air.McCartney's (1972)assertion of the depth of this
35
ee
weteee49-UNL-067/No Name:Bank (1963)reported a site at this locality.
Also listed by McCartney (1972),who believes this site may be one of the 24
scattered villages reported but not located by Veniaminov at the time of
Russian contact (see Hrdlicka 1945).
Attempts to find this site during this project reconnaissance failed.
Heavy rains cut short any extended aerial review.
49-UNL-079/Holy Nativity of Christ Church:Located at Makushin
Village,this is the site of the former Russian Orthodox Church.Visited
during this project,the church can be identified but is in a state of
disrepair.The walls are collapsed.Two Russian Orthodox style grave
markers are located on the beach side of the church.Other graves are
located on the north site.
49-UNL 087/No Name:Reported as site C-18 by Bank (1974),a small
burial cave at Point Cathedral.This site was located as an ancillary
activity of project reconnaissance.
A small cave is located at the base of a 100-foot cliff face situated to
the south side of Point Cathedral.This locality overlooks a deep rocky bay
with numerous seastacks.The cave is distinguished by an opening about 30
feet high by 16 feet wide.The chamber is recessed into the cliff face by
about 16 feet.
Without testing,this locality could not be confirmed as a burial cave
nor could a relative temporal assignment be made.Up to 24 inches of
undifferentiated cultural midden deposit is present.Bird and mammal bone
was noted,but no human remains were found.The beach in front of the
cave has up to 20 inches of shell debris,likely related to the interior
component.The rear of the chamber has been blackened by smoke from numerous
fires.Fire-altered stone is in evidence.The only artifacts noted were
non-diagnostic lithic flakes.None of these were collected.
37
FaGasowBa
aw
3.0 CONCLUSIONS &RECOMMENDATIONS
This chapter presents conclusions and recommendations based on the
preceeding environmental baseline relative to impact mitigation and impact
monitoring for road construction (Section 3.1)and for well site construc-
tion,well drilling and well testing (Section 3.2).
3.1 ROAD CONSTRUCTION
For the purposes of this report,impacts from road construction are
discussed separately from impacts from drilling operations.It is reasonably
certain that a deep geothermal test well will be drilled in 1983;at the time
of this writing,it is not clear if overland (road)access will be required
to support the deep well operations.Support of the operations by heli-
copter,rather than by road,is environmentally preferable because impact to
sensitive habitats (salmon streams,lowlands,coastal areas,seabird colonies
and raptor nests)would be minimized or avoided.The road,should it be
constructed,will be intended to be used for only one season,and will
probably be abandoned in autumn of 1983.In addition to the discipline-
specific recommendations made in the following subsections,it is advisable
that the actual road route be selected,in the field,with the advice of a
biologist (aquatic and terrestrial).This recommendation would apply more to
the extensive new construction in Glacier Valley or Makushin Valley,rather
than to the upgrading of the existing Driftwood Bay valley route.
3.1.1 Water Quality
Water quality impacts from road construction include increases in
sediments,turbidity,and nutrients,and a decrease in pH and dissolved
oxygen values.These impacts are directly or indirectly related to sedi-
mentation.Road construction may influence the production of sediment by
surface erosion,mass soil movements,and channel erosion.Of these,the
most common and significant water quality impact results from mass soil
movement.
39
oy
Road dust control should use water rather than oil or other synthetic
compounds.Grading and other road maintenance activities should not push
material into streams.Material borrow sites should be located in well-
drained upland areas,or,if this is not possible,in first-level terrace
areas away from active stream channels,to avoid erosion into a stream.
3.1.2 Aquatic Biology
Generally,the potential impacts to aquatic biology from road construc-
tion can occur as results of siltation,direct deletion of sensitive areas
(e.g.salmon spawning area),and presentation of a barrier to fish passage.
These impacts are most easily avoided by minimizing the number of crossings
of a stream,by minimizing the operations within the wetted perimeter (e.g.
fording,culverting),and by selecting the appropriate size of culvert or
depth of ford.From the perspective of aquatic biology,bridges impact the
stream less than culverts,and culverts usually impact less than fords.
However,it often happens that engineering and financial constraints favor
selection of fords over culverts,and culverts over bridges.Also,it is
possible that the permit agencies (Alaska Department of Fish and Game,Alaska
Department of Environmental Conservation,and U.S.Fish and Wildlife Service)
may require the removal of crossing structures and/or the restoration of the
stream channel,at the close of 1983 operations.Once the decision to build
a road is made,and a route corridor is selected,close agency coordination
will be essential.
A road in Driftwood Bay valley would likely follow the existing roadbed
and would,therefore,cross the stream once.The original crossing structure
has been washed away,but pieces of culvert remain at the site.As discussed
in the following section (3.2:Well Site Construction,Well Drilling and
Well Testing),the stream supports three species of anadromous salmonids,and
these fish occur at and above the crossing point,and the passage of fry,
juveniles or adults should not be impeded by a crossing structure.Recom-
mendations relative to stream crossings are made later in this subsection.
41
3.1.3 Birds and Terrestrial Biology
Driftwood Bay Valley
From the standpoint of terrestrial ecology,temporary road access to
drill site areas via Driftwood Bay valley would probably have the least
impact of the three road alternatives.The beach zone appears to be less
used by wildlife than at Makushin or Glacier Valleys,presumably because
Driftwood Bay is more exposed to heavy seas and fewer pink salmon are avail-
able for food than in the other valleys.Sensitive areas would include the
mouth of Driftwood Bay valley stream and the cliffside puffin colony.Both
of these areas are located at the extreme east end of the valley and would be
avoided by siting the landing area and road terminus at the central or west
end of the beach.
The lower portion of Driftwood Bay valley contains extensive wetlands;
however,the existing runway and roadway already traverse these wet meadow
habitats.Use of the existing road would not require a wetlands permit
unless new fill is required within the wetland -area.Little or no impact
to wetlands would occur if the existing roadway is utilized without modifi-
cation.
No significant impacts to wildlife or sensitive habitats would be
expected on the portions of the proposed road route that are on higher
elevation tundra terrain.New roadway required to link the existing road to
the proposed drill site would cross a windblown tundra area with substantial
bare ground.The primary impact would be aesthetic rather than ecological.
Makushin Valley
The beach zone of the Makushin Valley (and its adjacent seaside cliffs)
appears to be highly productive.Numbers of birds and marine mammals
onshore,near shore and offshore were greater at this beach than at the other
_study sites.This abundance was caused at least partially by the large pink
salmon run in the Makushin River and undoubtedly varies depending on season.
43
most sensitive areas from a wildlife standpoint are at the mouth and lower
reaches of the river system and adjacent to the bluffs at each side of the
valley.
Glacier Valley contains less wetland habitat than the other valleys
studied.Wetlands are most extensive on the east side of the lower valley.
The upper valley is vegetated primarily by the mesic midgrass type with
extensive areas of bare alluvial soils adjacent to the main stream.The
upper valley would not be sensitive from the standpoint of wildlife impacts.
A temporary road constructed in Glacier Valley should take a number of
factors into consideration.The presence of nesting bald eagles,spawning
salmon,and wildlife that exploit the salmon indicates that the valley mouth
area is sensitive to disturbance at various times of the year.It is prob-
able that regulatory agencies would impose timing constraints on shoreline
activities.The most sensitive time periods would include late March through
early May (eagle nesting,courtship and egg laying)and mid-August through
mid-September (pink and silver salmon run).The best place for a landing
area would be halfway between the mouth of the river and the bluffs on either
the east or west sides.
Routing of the roadway in the lower valley is also important from an
ecological and aesthetic point of view.Salmon spawning and rearing areas
and wetland areas are most extensive on the east side of the valley.A
route through this area would require wetland permits and permanent drainage
structures designed for fish passage at each stream crossing.Visual impact
would be high because the area is heavily vegetated.A recommended alter-
native would be to route the roadway on the bare alluvial soils of the main
stream.Numerous crossings of the braided stream channels would be required
but could probably be accomplished using shallow fords rather than struc-
tures.The braided main stream is a dynamic system and the channels are
continuously shifting.Therefore,visual impacts would be minimal and no
long-term impact to vegetated terrain or stream hydrology would occur.A
disadvantage to the above recommendation is that permits would be required
from the Alaska Department of Fish and Game.It is almost certain that,if
45
of these localities by all project personnel.This requirement is especially
critical if the Glacier Valley corridor is further considered.
The tidewater terminus of the Glacier Valley route would fall within one
mile of the abandoned village of Makushin.This village still contains
historic and probable prehistoric components.Graves,structures,artifacts,
and any other potential curiosities should remain unmolested.Disturbance of
the site's temporal and spatial integrity is a violation of federal and State
of Alaska statutes and could lead to project requirements for mitigation of
any adverse secondary effects.
If conducted with caution and activity monitoring,this road building
for geothermal exploration should have no adverse primary or secondary
effects on the archaeological or historical sites of Unalaska Island.
3.2 WELL SITE CONSTRUCTION,WELL DRILLING AND WELL TESTING
Because essentially all deep well operations will occur high on the
slopes of Makushin Volcano,wetlands,birds and archaeology will not be major
environmental issues.However,because of the potential for erosion from the
well pad,and the discharge of drilling mud or geothermal fluid,water
quality and aquatic biology are areas of major environmental concern.This
section,therefore,focuses primarily on these two disciplines,but also
discusses the potential for impacts to terrestrial biology and archaeology.
3.2.1 Water Quality
Deep well drilling operations could result in water quality impacts if
drilling mud and/or geothermal fluid accidentally enter or are discharged
into a stream or if erosion from the well site enters a stream.The impact
from geothermal fluid discharge would probably be greatest in Driftwood Bay
valley because it has the least existing influence from geothermal water.
Makushin and Glacier Valley streams are,at present,affected by geothermal
waters;however,the ultimate impact on water quality would depend on the
47
prtereceRpou
8ery
quality of the receiving water should be estimated.This would allow for
the implementation of potential mitigation measures,such as limiting the
discharge volume,as appropriate.
Monitoring of well testing should include sampling for selected water
quality criteria before,during,and after the test at two stations down-
stream from the point of discharge,in areas known to support salmon.In
Makushin Valley,the MV and MR stations could be used.In Glacier Valley,GV
station plus another station further downstream would be suitable.In
Driftwood Valley,DW station plus.another station further upstream would-be
appropriate.
3.2.2 Aquatic Biology
The potential for impacts to water quality resulting from construction,
drilling,and testing operations imply that fish populations downstream
from a drill site may be affected.The most significant potential impact
from construction and drilling is siltation of the stream.Potential impacts
from the discharge of geothermal fluid are related to the fluid's heat and
dissolved constituents (sodium,potassium,chloride,sulfate,turbidity,
metals,etc.).
The Driftwood Bay stream is,perhaps,the most sensitive of the three
streams in the project area.It supports four species of fish,three of
which are anadromous salmonids.It is the only stream where silver salmon
(year-round residents as juveniles)were observed.The channel does not
appear to meander as much as do the channels of the other streams,and no
naturally occurring siltation was observed.However,since no deep well
sites were proposed in this drainage,it seems unlikely that Driftwood Bay
will be impacted by deep well operations.
The Makushin Valley stream appears to support more pink salmon and Dolly
Varden char than do the other two streams.Furthermore,two of the three TGH
sites (now potential deep well sites)are in this drainage.Conversely,the
stream is subject to occasional natural landslides and meandering,with the
49
upper intertidal zone [Rockwell 1956]),it is preferable that any instream
activity or discharge of geothermal fluid occurs during the "window"of late
May through mid-August,if practicable.If this is not practicable,and the
fluid must be discharged during the spawning run,it would be best to:(a)
discharge as early as possible,before most of the adult fish are in the
stream and the eggs are spawned;(b)test the fluid before discharge and
restrict or reduce the flow of geothermal fluid to the stream if an estimate
of the dilution by the receiving stream indicates potential impacts;and (c)
discharge during a period of high stream flow to maximize dilution.
The fish populations should be monitored by observation and limited
sampling before,during and after the discharge.In Glacier Valley,the
monitoring should be done at GV station and in the tributaries and side
channels further downstream.In Makushin Valley,the monitoring should be
done at MV and MR stations.
)
3.2.5 Birds and Terrestrial Biology
If the drilling and testing operations,which will occur high on the
slopes of Makushin Volcano,are supported by helicopter,the impacts to
sensitive lowland habitats will be minimal.Helicopters and gravel removal
activities should avoid seabird colonies,raptor nests and wetlands.
It is environmentally preferable to consolidate earth-disturbing activ-
ities (e.g.pad construction,gravel removal),rather than impacting a large
area.Any vegetated overburden removed for pad construction or gravel
removal should be stockpiled and bermed for later redistribution on the
disturbed area,when the site is abandoned.
It is possible that the lands where this exploration program is taking
place may,someday,be placed into a National Wildlife Refuge.This means
that aesthetic aspects are of concern.Waste and litter should be appro-
priately disposed of.When the site is abandoned,the area should be graded
to prevent runoff and to be consistent with the surrounding topography.It
is possible that the permit-issuing agencies will require revegetation of the
site with native species.
51
4.0 REFERENCES
Aigner,Jean S.,Bruce Fullem,Douglas Veltre,and Mary Veltre,1976.
Preliminary reports on remains from Sandy Beach Bay,a 4300-5600 B.P.
Aleut village.Arctic Anthropology 13(2):83-90.
APHA,1980.Standard methods for the examination of water and wastewater.
15th Edition,American Public Health Association,Washington,D.C.1134
pp.
-Balding,G.O.,1976.Water availability,quality,and use in Alaska.U.S.
Geological Survey Open-File Report 76-513.236 pp.-
Ballinger,D.G.,and G.D.McKee,1971.Chemical characterizaton of bottom
sediments.Journal Water Pollution Control Federation,Vol.43,No.2,
+Bank,Theodore,P.II,1953a.Cultural succession in the Aleutians.
American Antiquity 19(1):40-49.
»1953b.Ecology of prehistoric Aleutian village sites.Ecology
343264-264,
»1963.Past ages of Alaska.Explorers Journal 41(3):32-42.
»1971.Aleutian-Bering Sea institutes and research program.t Mimeographed.
k
»1972.Aleutian Island archaeological radiocarbon dates from
re studies of Prof.Ted P.Bank II.American Institute for Exploration.
Ms »1973.Research proposal for field work in 1973,Aleutian-
os Bering Sea Institutes.Mimeographed.
»1974.Annotations for archaelogical site map:Amaknak Island
and Unalaska Bay area of Unalaska Island.Aleutian-Bering Sea
Institutes.Mimeographed.
Dall,William H.,1873.Notes on prehistoric remains in the Aleutian
Islands.Proceedings of the California Academy of Science 4:283-287.greene;Davydov,G.I.,1977.Two voyages to Russian American,1802-1807.Translated
by C.Bearne,edited by R.Pierce.Materials for the Study of Alaskan
History,10.The Limestone Press.Kingston,Ontario.
Dumond,Don E.,1977.The Eskimos and Aleuts.Thames and Hudson.London.
EPA,1979,Methods for chemical analysis of water and wastes.EPA-600/
Re 4-79-020,U.S.Environmental Protection Agency,Cincinnati,Ohio.
fot 93
Sarychev,Gavrill,1826.Atlas of the northern part of the Pacific Ocean,
compiled in sheets by the Imperial Navy Department from the latest
information and maps,1826,under the direction of Vice-Admiral and
Hydrographer Sarichef..
State of Alaska,Department of Fish and Game,1978a.Alaska fisheries atlas,
Volumes I and II.
,1978b.Alaska's wildlife and habitat,Volume II.
__.»1980,1981.Alaska Peninsula and Aleutian Islands annual
reports.
Timkmenev,Petr A.,1978.A history of the Russian-American Company.
Translated by R.Pierce and A.Donnelly.University of.Washington
Press.Seattle.
Veltre,Douglas W.,1979.Korovinski:The ethnohistorical archaeology of an
Aleut and Russian settlement on Atka Island,Alaska.Ph.D.dissertation
(Anthropology),University of Connecticut.
Veniaminov,Ivan,1840.Notes on the Unalaska district.Human Relations
Area Files translations.
Viereck,L.A.,C.T.Dryness and A.R.Batten,1981.Revision of preliminary
classification system for vegetation of Alaska.U.S.Forest Service,Inst.of Northern Forestry.
55
peaepreeenenom,Weer--APPENDIX A
ALASKA POWER AUTHORITY UNALASKA GEOTHERMAL PROJECT:
GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED FIELD OPERATIONS
February 19,1982
Prepared by:
Republic Geothermal,Inc.
11823 East Slauson Averue
Santa Fe Springs,California 90670
(213)945-3661
and
Dames and Mcore
800 Cordova,Suite 101
Anchorage,Alaska 99501
(907)279-0673
REPUBLIC GEOTHERMAL,INC.
ALASKA POWER AUTHORITY UNALASKA GEOTHERMAL PROJECT:
GENERAL DESCRIPTION OF PROPOSED FIELD OPERATIONS
The Alaska Power Authority (APA)has contracted with
Republic Geothermal,Inc.(Republic)to explore the east-
ern flanks of Makushin Volcano on Unalaska Island for
geotnermal resources.If the exploration is successful,
additional work beyond the scope of this contract mav
eventually lead to the construction of a small geothermal
electric generating facility which would provide electrical
energy from an indigenous source to the villages of UnalaskaandDutchHarbor.The geothermal resource exploratory oper-ations planned by Republic and the APA will be conducted in
basically three stages:initial geologic exploratory Work,temperature gradient hole operations (both conducted Seeing1982),and drilling of one deep exploratory geothermal wel
(drilled in 1983).
The purpose of this document is to present a general
overview of the probable field operations so those indi-viduals and entities which may have permit responsibilities,know of applicable regulations,or have certain environ-
mental concerns with the proposed project.Because many
ef the operations are still in the planning stages,"he ce-scriptions are general and in many instances present a"worst case"situation in terms of environmental impacc.
&is Republic's desire to solicit information and commentsfromallinterestedpartiessothat.envircnmental impact
mitigation measures,which have not been included in thisGescription,can be develcped and incorporated as appropriateinthespecificoperationalproposalsanésermitapplicationsthatwillbesubmittedastheprojectproceeds.
The initial geologic explorationwork wili consis=c=geologic mapping of special areas of interest,water sam-pling of Penge and some streams,gas sampl 25¢of ssrinesanZumarclamercurysoilsurvey,and a seli-potentialsurvey.The.initial exploratory work will probably be con-ducted on Zsot,although helicepters will be utilized sotransporshefieldpeopletodistantsites,and thwheeledall-terrain vehicles may be usec if ceaswillbetwoseopleintheareaconductingtnear ok=a 3 aepre malesandcassampling,and che mercury survey OF approxamaseay
REPUBLIC GEOTHERMAL.INC.
small diameter hole into which is placed a cne=-to two-inch
diameter plastic tube which is capped at both ends and filled
with water.The TGH is left undisturbed for a minimum of cone
week to allow the water to be heated to the temperature of
the surrounding rock.The temperatures are then measured at
various depths with a probe attached to a cable.After the
temperatures are monitored over a period of time,the TGH are
typically abandoned by cutting the pipe three feet below the
surtace,slacing a cement plug in the tep fitteen feet of th
TGH,and then burying the TGH with soil.Abandonment can be
accomplished without the use of a drilling rig.
Each TGH will probably be drilled to a depth of approxi-mately 1500 feet by a continuous wireline coring rig typicalofthoseusedforminingexploration.The rig will likelybetransportedbybargetoUnalaskaIslandandthentrans-
ported by helicopter to and from each drill site.Each site
will probably be located close to a source of drilling fluid
makeup water.The drilling fluids will be contained and re-
circulated in the TGH so that -surface water degradation should
not occur.
An area of approximately 40-feet by 60-feet will be
levelecG as necessary by hand labor for the temperature gra-
dient hole rig.A small steel tank will be used to collect
the rock cuttings and to store the drilling fluid before it
is recirculated.When each TGH is completed the cuttings
and waste drilling fluid (drilling mud and/or water)will
likely be dried and the residue spread on the surface o=theground.The amount of waste drilling fluid is lixely to belessthanfiztygallonssincemostofthe¢rilling fluidgeneratedduringthedrillingoftheTGHwillbeusecto setthecementaroundthecasingduringcompletionofthewell.
Much of the rock cores will be sent to Republic's home office
and to various agencies as samples.The ramainder mav se
boxed and transported Zrom the site by helicopter or it maybeleftatthesite.In the latter case,the amount ci rock
cores left at the site would form a rock pile approximately
lO-feet by 3-feet by 2-fset.
Drilling operations for all three TGH's shoulic taxeapproximatelysixtydays.Drilling will occur 24 hours serGayandwillrequiretwoorthreethree-person crillincrews,one drilling supervisor,and pericdically cone or twosupervisinggeolocists.Food and fuel will be surchasec actDutchHarbortothegreatestextentpossible.The critiincampwillbeatthesamelocasionasthatusedforcheini-tial axmioracion work unless gcor weather conditions sreclucehelicoptereransporsSetweensites.In that case,a smal
'Ces)(
REPUBLIC GEOTHERMAL.INC.
Cleaned by removing all unnecessary equipment and srobablymixingthewastedrillingmudwithnativescilandeitherspreadingitonthegroundorburyingitinthesump.I
the well is successful,the site will be used during testingoperations.If not,final abandonment procedures will be
based on the proposed disposition of the well.
Procedures for testing the well will depend upon the type
of resource encountered.If a dry steam geothermal resource
is found the well will be tested by discharging the steam
through pressure and temperature meters directly into the at-
mosphere.If a liquid geothermal resource is discovered an
initial,short-term flow test (of a few hours to a few days)
will probably be conducted by discharging the resource direct-
ly into the drilling mud sump.A longer-term flow test (of
a few days to a few weeks)would be desired but may only bepossibleifanacceptablemethodtodisposeofthewaste
geothermal fluid can be devised.Potential alternative
waste geothermal fiuid disposal methods could include dis-
charge to the ground,discharge into a stream,or possibly
injection into 2a temperature gradient hole.The method
chosen will depend on the composition of the gecthermal fluid,
environmental concerns,appropriate engineering practices,and available funds.
i
rm
7 _APPENDIX 8
WATER QUALITY
Sampling Methods and Data
rey
1 A
3
5
be
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bYtoot4
Los
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i
ty
kok
rey
bee
Beenor5ho
as
APPENDIX B -
WATER QUALITY,SAMPLING METHODS AND DATA
For the most part,water in the Makushin,Driftwood,and Glacier
drainages was of high quality.Dissolved oxygen concentrations were high,pH
was neutral,concentrations of nutrients and minerals were low,and water
temperatures were cold.Fecal coliform bacteria,total organic carbon,and
settleable solids were not detected and carbon dioxide levels were low.
Concentrations of many parameters varied with discharge.Mineral concén-
trations,alkalinity,and pH decreased with increased flow,whereas suspended
solids and turbidity levels increased with increased flow.All of these
responses to changing discharge levels are normal.
Naturally occurring geothermal waters are present on the flanks of
Makushin Volcano.Two areas of surface manifestation occur upstream from
the BC and GV sample stations.Water quality at these stations is influenced
by geothermal water.Water at the BC amd GV stations exhibited the highest
mineralization and the highest concentrations of calcium and sulfate,as well
as the lowest alkalinity and pH levels,and highest carbon dioxide concen-
trations of the five primary stations.
Sediments at the five primary stations are clean.That is,they do
not create a significant oxygen demand,nor are they major sources of
nutrients in the water.
Water quality data developed during the course of this project appear
below.Five primary stations (MV,BC,DW,DE and GV)were sampled in May,
but no secondary stations were sampled.In September,the primary stations
located at MV,BC,and DW were sampled at essentially the same locations as
in May.Station DE was not sampled in September because it was outside the
potential zone of impact resulting from drilling a deep well and it was also
far removed from the potential road route.Station GV was moved up Glacier
'Valley in September.This move was made possible because of the final
location of the TGH.four secondary stations were sampled in September.GE
Some parameters measured during both field trips displayed levels equal
to or less than their respective detection limits.These parameters were
nitrite-nitrogen (0.01 mg/l),color (5 color units),and fecal coliform
bacteria (0 colonies/100 ml).Also,nitrate-nitrogen was less than 0.10 mg/1
at all primary stations during both field trips with one exception.Nitrate-
nitrogen was 0.12 mg/l at MV in September.
Total Kjeldahl nitrogen was less than 0.1 mg/l at all primary stations
in May.During the September field trip,chemical oxygen demand (1.0 mg/l),
total organic carbon (1.0 mg/l),barium (0.01 mg/l),chromium (0.003 mg/l),
and strontium (0.01 mg/l)were equal to or less than their respective detec-
tion limits at all primary stations.
Table B-4 presents the results of laboratory analyses of samples
collected at primary stations in May.This table does not include the
parameters discussed above.Table B-5 presents the laboratory data from
samples collected in September.
Specific methods of analysis were:
*Dissolved Oxygen -YSI Model 57 0.0.Meter.
*pH -VWR Scientific Model 55 pH Meter.
*Conductivity -YSI Model 33 S-C-T Meter.
Temperature was measured in-situ using a thermometer graduated in
0.1°C increments and having the accuracy within tolerances specified by
A.S.T.M.Values of the above parameters were recorded after they stabilized.
Alkalinity was determined potentiometrically by securing a_sample,
measuring 100 ml with a volumetric flask,and titrating with standard
sulfuric acid to the appropriate endpoint.Settleable solids were determined
*Values were measured by placing probes directly in the water to be tested.
HieigeAmmonia,Bromide,Chloride,and Fluoride:A calibration curve was
prepared using known concentration reference standards.
Metals:EPA trace metal.reference samples were run where possible.
Replicates of 3 to 7 readings were made and averaged from each
metal.
Chemical Oxygen Demand:Samples,standards,and blanks were run in
duplicate or triplicate.
Valley and streambed characteristics for each of the sample stations are
presented below:
MV
BC
MD
MR
DW
DE
GV
"U"shaped valley;streambed consisted of sand,gravel,cobbles,
and boulders,but was predominantly cobbles.
"V"shaped valley;streambed consisted of bedrock and sand to
large boulders.
"V"shaped valley;streambed consisted of sand and gravel.
"U"shaped valley;streambed consisted of sand,gravel,and cobbles.
"U"shaped valley;streambed consisted of sand to large cobbles
with occasional boulders,predominantly gravel.
"U"shaped valley;stream cut through peat layer and bed was
predominantly sand with small gravel with occasional boulders.
"U"shaped valley;streambed varied from sand to large boulders
with a few small areas having sand to cobble size material.The
floodplain was broad and showed evidence of past stream flow in
many areas across the floodplain.At the time of sampling,the
TABLE B-1
FIELD AND OFFICE CALCULATIONS DATA --MA Y
Sample Station
MV BC DW DE GV
Sample Date 05/18/82 05/19/82 05/18/82 05/18/82 05/19/82
Sample Time 1100 0930 1500 1600 1300
Field Parameters (1)
Flow,cfs 58 7.9 31 46 37
Dissolved Oxygen
|
13.1 12.1 13.5 11.7 11.8
Conductivity,pmhos/em @ 25C 150 228 98 186 336
PH,pH Units
.
6.7 7.4 6.5 6.3 7.2
Temperature,C 4.1 5.1 3.1 9.0 7.7
Turbidity,NTU 0.95 1.1 1.2 0.85 3.4
Settleable Solids,ml/1l <0.1 <0.1 <0.1 <O.1 <O.1
Alkalinity,as Caco,14 27 10 22 25
Office Calculations Q)
Hardness,CatMg,as CaCO,45 74 52 34 130
Free Carbon Dioxide 5.6 2.2 6.4 22 3.0
D.O.%Saturation
.
100 98 100 100 100
(1)Values in mg/l unless otherwise noted
TABLE B-2
FIELD AND OFFICE
Continued
CALCULATIONS DATA --SEPTEMBER
Sample Station
GV GW GE
Sample Date 09/01/82 09/01/82 09/01/82
Sample Time 0900 1130 1100
Field Parameters (1)
Flow,cfs 160 73 54
Dissolved Oxygen 12.4 12.7 11.8
Conductivity,wmhos/cm @ 25°C 217 277 160
PH,pH Units .5.7 5.7 6.4
Temperature,we 4.9 4.4 7.1
Turbidity,NTU 30 49 0.43
Settleable Solids,ml/l <0.1 <0.1 <0.1
Alkalinity,as caco,2.3 0.5 5.6
Office Calculations ')
Hardness,Ca+Mg,as caco,76 ------
Free Carbon Dioxide 9.2 2:0 4.5 -
D.O.%Saturation 98 99 99
(1)Values in mg/l unless otherwise noted
ANALYTICAL METHODS AND DETECTION LIMITS
TABLE B-3 'Continued)
Parameter Methoa '1)Detection Limit
METALS (continued)
Nickel -AR 0.005
Potassium AA 0.002
Selenium GF 0.0005
Silver AA 0.002
Sodium AA 0.001
Strontium AA -0.002
Titanium AA 0.04 :
Vanadium AA 0.04
Zine AA 0.0001
INORGANIC,NON=METALLICS
Alkalinity EPA 310.1 2 as Caco,
Bromide EPA 320.1 0.20
Carbon Dioxide SM 406A 0.1
Chloride SM 407C 0.1
Fluoride EPA 340.2 0.2
Nitrogen,Ammonia EPA 350.5 )0.01
Nitrogen,Kjeldahl EPA 351.3 0.05
Nitrogen,Nitrate EPA 352.1 0.1
Nitrogen,Nitrite EPA 354.1 0.01
Oxygen,Dissolved EPA 360.1 0.1
Phosphate,Ortho EPA 365.3 0.01
Phosphate,Total EPA 365.3 0.01
Silica,Dissolved SM 425¢C 1
Silicon AA 0.02
Sulfate SM 426C Ll
Sulfide SM 427D.0.1
(1)SM--Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Waste-
water,15th edition.;
EPA-Methods for Chemical Analysis of Water and Wastes,1979.
GF--Graphite Furnace
AA --Atomic Absorption
ICP -Inductively Coupled Plasma Emission
(2)Values in mg/l unless otherwise noted
TABLE B-4 (Continued)
LABORATORY DATA --MAY
(2)Parameter Sample Station
MV BC Gv DW DE
zinc 0.001 <0.001 <0.001 0.008 0.00€
ORGANIC SEDIMENT INDEX
Total Kjeldahl-N,%<0.01 0.01 0.01 0.08 0.05
Organic Carbon,%0.13 0.12 0.18 1.4 0.9
(1)Parameters in mg/l except organic sediment index.
TABLE B-5 (Continued)
LABORATORY DATA- SEPTEMBER
Sample StationParameter(1)
By
Potassium 0.88
Sodium 6.5
zine 0.040
MR
Tot.Susp.Solids 31
Nitrate-N 0.30
Orthophosphate-P <0.01
0.13
<0.01
(1)All analyses are in mg/l.
NoOe150°
100-4
TotalDissolvedSolids,mg/lwnoOrTTurbidity,NTU50 100 150 200 250 300 350
Conductivity,micromhos/cm @ 25°C
qT t :
0 10 20 30 40 50
Total Suspended Solids,mg/l
FIGURE B-1
RELATION OF CONDUCTIVITY TO TOTAL DISSOLVED
SOLIDS AND TURBIDITY TO TOTAL SUSPENDED SOLIDS
APPENDIX C
AQUATIC BIOLOGY
Sampling Methods
Records of Capture
Angling:
Gill Net:
d
ey
tS Electrofisher:
ry
is
fs Kick Seine:
Beach Seine:
3 Minnow Trap:
'Fry
tas Identification:
Rant
SAMPLING METHODS
Light to medium weight spinning tackle in pools;spoons or
spinners.Active gear --fished by one or more people.
Clear monofilament;30 feet long x 6 feet deep with three
10-foot panels of 1/2,1 and 1-1/2 inch bar mesh;set in
pools as perpendicular to the current as possible.Passive
gear --set overnight.
Smith-Root Model VII (backpack);fished in pools and eddies.
Active gear --one person with backpack and electric wands
plus a second person with dip net to capture stunned fish.
Small seine (6 feet long x 4 feet deep),1/4 inch knotless
mesh.Active gear --one person holds net in current while
second person walks downstream into the net,kicking up
stones,gravel,etc;eggs and small fish are washed into the
net.
30 feet long x 4 feet deep,1/4 inch knotless mesh.Active
gear -two people hold net stretched between them and sweep
through an area.
Small barrel-shaped (1-1/2 feet long x 1/2 foot diameter)
with conical entry on each end;baited with salmon eggs and
set in pool.Passive gear set overnight.
McPhail and Lindsey 1970.
Stream
Makushin Valley
Driftwood Bay
Glacier Valley
TABLE C-1
PRESENCE OF FISH SPECIES AND BARRIERS TO
FISH PASSAGE IN THE STREAMS OF PROJECT AREA
Life Stages
Species Captured or Observed(1)
Fry,Juvenile,Adult
Adult
Dolly Varden Char
Pink Salmon
Dolly Varden Char Juvenile,Adult
Pink Salmon Adult
Silver Salmon Juvenile
Three-spine Stickleback Adult
Fry,Juvenile,Adult
Adult
Dolly Varden Char
Pink Salmon
Barriers to Fish Passage
Between TGH(2)and Tidewater
Yes
Yes
M1)Salmonid eggs and yolk-sac fry were taken in the kick-seine in all three streams;it was not possible
to distinguish the species.
(2)TGH =Thermal Gradient Hole,drilled in 1982;possible site of 1983 deep well operations.
ied
lial
Date Gear;Effort (1)Species(2)Number (3)Life Stage (4)Length(5)
18 May G/N;immediate Dolly 1 A 44
B/S;1 -0 -_
K/S;10 Oolly 10 F 2-3
19 May G/N;44 Dolly 7 A 46
A 41
A 41
A 27
A 13
A 39
A 40
M/T;44 _0 -_
31 Aug.K/S;&Dolly 6 F -
H/L;20 _0 --_
1 Sept.G/N;24 Dolly 13 A 42
42
43
50
44
43
36
30
31
Four
RECORD OF CAPTURE OF FISH:MAKUSHIN VALLEY STATION,1982
2 Sept.E/F;88 Dolly
Dolly
7)H/L =Hook &line;angler-minutes
(2)
(3)
(4)
(5)
(6)
G/N
€/F
K/S
B/S
M/T
Dolly
Pink
Gill net;net-hours
Electrofisher;seconds of current
Minnow trap;trap-hours
Dolly Varden char
Pink salmon
Silver Silver salmon
Stickle =Three-spine stickleback
Number of fish
E =EggFosFryJ=JuvenileA=Adult
Fork lengths;in centimeters
In grams
>15
>15 PuKick seine;number of passes over approximately 1.5m2
Beach seine;number of sweeps over approximately 5.5m
Weight (6)Disposition
Prirraib250
Unmeasured
Released
Retained for
identification
Retained
Retained
Retained
Retained
Retained
Retained
Retained
Released
Retained
Retained
Retained
Retained
Retained
Retained
Retained
Retained
Retained
Released
Released
Released
Date
19 May
20 May
1 Sept
TABLE C-5
RECORD OF CAPTURE OF FISH:DRIFTWOOD VALLEY -WEST STATION,1982
Gear;Effort (1)Species(2)Number(3)Life Stage (4)Length(5)
B/S;2 --0 ---
K/S3 2 --0 --
G/N;19 --0 ---
MT;19 - 0 -_-
E/F;133 Dolly 8 J 8-12
H/L;30 --0 ---
K/S;3 ?4 E -
G/N;22 Pink 12 A --
Dolly 1 A --
Dolly 2 J --
CY H/L =Hook &line;angler-minutesG/N
E/F
K/S
B/S
M/T
(2)polly
Pink
Silver
Stickle
Gill net;net-hours
Electrofisher;seconds of currentKickseine;number of passes over approximately 1.5m?Beach seine;number of sweeps over approximately 5.5m?
Minnow trap;trap-hours
Dolly Varden char
Pink salmon
Silver salmon
Three-spine stickleback
(3)Number of fish
(4)5
F
J
A
(5)Fork length;in centimeters
Egg
Fry
Juvenile
Adult
(6)In grams
Weight (6)Disposition
Released
Released
Most Released
Released
Released
RECORD OF CAPTURE OF FISH:
Date Gear;Ef fort (1)Species(2)Number (3)Life Stage (4)
19 May B/S;2 Dolly 1 F
K/S;2 Dolly 31 F
20 May G/N;43 --0 -
2 Sept.H/L;15 --0 -
K/S;4 --0 -
E/F;38 Dolly 2 A
Dolly 10 J
1)H/L =Hook &line;angler-minutes.
G/N =Gill net;net-hours
E/F =Electrofisher;seconds of currentK/S =Kick seine;number of passes over approximately 1.5m2B/S =Beach seine;number of sweeps over approximately 5.5m2M/T =Minnow trap;trap-hours(2)Dolly =Dolly Varden char
Pink =Pink salmon
Silver =Silver salmon
Stickle =Three-spine stickleback(3)Number of fish
(4)-=Egg
Fo=Fry
J =Juvenile
A =Adult
(5)Fork length;in centimeters
(6)In grams
TABLE C-7
BELOW CAMP STATION,1982
Length')
2-5
2-3
Weight(6)Disposition
Released
Released
Released
Released