HomeMy WebLinkAboutFeasibility Study Data Collection Program for the Proposed Hydroelectric Project at Atka Alaska 1984FINAL REPORT
FEASIBILITY STUDY OAT A COLLECTION PROGRAM
FOR THE PROPOSED HYDROELECTRIC PROJECT AT
ATKA, ALASKA
Prepared For
ALASKA POWER AUTHORITY
By
NORTHERN TECHNICAL SERVICES, INC.
and
V AN GULIK & ASSOCIATES, INC.
NORTHERN TECHNICAL SERVICES
ANCHORAGE,ALASKA
FINAL REPORT
FEASIBILITY STUDY DATA COLLECTION PROGRAM
FOR THE PROPOSED HYDROELECTRIC PROJECT AT
ATKA, ALASKA
Prepared For
ALASKA POWER AUTHORITY
By
NORTHERN TECHNICAL SERVICES, INC.
and
VAN GULIK & ASSOCIATES, INC.
June 6, 1984
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS •
LIST OF TABLES •••
. . .
. . . . . . . .
Page
i
• iii
LIST OF FIGURES • v
1.0 INTRODUCTION •••••••••••••••
1.1 Description of the Proposed Project •
• • • 1-1
1-1
1-10 1.2 Project Scope and Objectives ••••••
2.0 PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS. • • • 2-1
3.0
2.1 General ••••••••••• • 2-1
2.2 Geology and Soils • • • • • •• • • 2-1
2.2.1 Study Methods.. • ••••••••• 2-1
2.2.2 Results. • • • • • • • •• • •••• 2-2
2.3 Climate and Meteorology •••••••••••• 2-19
2.3.1 Study Methods. • • • • • • • 2-19
2.3.2 Temperature Data. • • • • • 2-21
2.3.3 Precipitation Data ••
2.4 Hydrology ••••••••••••
• • 2-34
• 2-46
2.4.1 Field Methods. • • • •• •• • . 2-46
2.4.2 Channel Characteristics. • ••••• 2-49
2.4.3 Stage/Discharge Rating Curve •••••• 2-52
2.4.4
2.4.5
2.4.6
Stream Hydrograph Data •
River Icing Observations
Discussion of Results ••
BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT •
3.1 General •••••
• 2-56
2-57
• 2-61
• 3-1
• 3-1
3.2 Terrestrial Environment • • •••••• 3-1
3.2.1 Soils .................. 3-1
3.2.2 Vegetation •• . . . . . .
3.2.3
3.2.4
Terrestrial Mammals •• . . . . . .
Birds ••.••••••• . .
i
• • • 3-4
• • • 3-16
• 3-29
3.3
TABLE OF CONTENTS (Cont'd)
Aquatic Environment •
3.3.1 Fisheries ••••
3.3.2 Marine Mammals.
3.3.3 Marine Algae ••
3-36
• • • 3-36
• 3-46
• • 3-46
4.0 ARCHAEOLOGY. • • • • • • • • • • • • • • • •• • 4-1
5.0
4.1 Overview of Aleutian Prehistory. • 4-1
4.2 History of Atka Island ••••••••••••• 4-2
4.3 Archaeological Sites on Atka Island. • 4-2
PERMITTING CONSIDERATIONS •••• . . . . . 5-1
5.1 General •••••• • • • 5-1
5.2 Permits for Field Studies • • • 5-1
5.3 Construction Permitting •••••••••• 5-1
5.3.1 Local Government Permits. • •• 5-1
5.3.2 State Government Permits •••••••• 5-2
5.3.3 Federal Government Permits. • ••• 5-5
6.0 REFERENCES CITED •••••••••••••••••• 6-1
APPENDIX A PERMIT DOCUMENTATION
ii
. l t
Table 1-1.
Table 2-1.
Table 2-2.
Table 2-3.
Table 2-4.
Table 2-5.
Table 2-6.
Table 2-7.
Table 2-8.
Table 2-9.
Table 2-10.
Table 2-11.
LIST OF TABLES
Summary of alternatives reviewed for hydro-
power development at Chuniisax Creek • • • • 1-9
Maximum, minimum and mean air temperatures
( 0 F) at Atka, Alaska for December, 1982. · · 2-22
Maximum, minimum and mean air temperatures
( 0 F) at Atka, Alaska for January, 1983 · · · 2-23
Maximum, minimum and mean air temperatures
( 0 F ) at Atka, Alaska for February, 1983. · · 2-24
Maximum, minimum and mean air temperatures
( 0 F) at Atka, Alaska for r1ay, 1983 . · · · · 2-25
Maximum, minimum and mean air temperatures
( 0 F) at Atka, Alaska for June, 1983. · · · · 2-26
Maximum, minimum and mean air temperatures
( 0 F) at Atka, Alaska for July, 1983. · · · · 2-27
Maximum, minimum and mean air temperatures
( 0 F) at Atka, Alaska for August, 1983. · · · 2-28
r1aximum, minimum and mean air temperatures
(oF) at Atka, Alaska for September, 1983 · · 2-29
Maximum, minimum and mean air temperatures
( 0 F) at Atka, Alaska for October, 1983 · · · 2-30
I>iaximum, minimum and mean air temperatures
( 0 F) at Atka, Alaska for November, 1983. · · 2-31
Maximum, minimum and mean air temperatures
( 0 F) at Atka, Alaska for December, 1983. · · 2-32
Table 2-12. Daily precipitation (inches) at Atka,
Alaska for December, 1982 •••••••.•• 2-35
Table 2-13. Daily precipitation (inches) at Atka,
Alaska for January, 1983 •••••••••• 2-36
Table 2-14. Daily precipitation (inches) at Atka,
Alaska for February, 1983 •••••••••• 2-37
Table 2-15. Daily precipitation (inches) at Atka,
Alaska for May, 1983 •••••••••••. 2-38
iii
Table 2-16.
Table 2-17.
Table 2-18.
Table 2-19.
Table 2-20.
LIST OF TABLES (Cont'd)
Daily precipitation (inches) at Atka,
Alaska for June, 1983 •••••••••
Daily precipitation (inches) at Atka,
Alaska for July, 1983. . · · · · · · ·
Daily precipitation (inches) at Atka,
Alaska for August, 1983. · · · · · · ·
Daily precipitation (inches) at Atka,
Alaska for September, 1983 · · · · · ·
Daily precipitation (inches) at Atka,
Alaska for October, 1983 · · · · · · ·
2-39
· · · 2-40
· · · 2-41
· · · 2-42
· · · 2-43
Table 2-21. Daily precipitation (inches) at Atka,
Alaska for November, 1983. • • • • •• • 2-44
Table 2-22. Stream discharge data for Chuniisax Creek
Table 3-1.
Table 3-2.
Table 3-3.
Table 3-4.
Table 3-5.
Table 3-6.
near Atka, Alaska. • • • • • . • . • • • • . 2-55
Description of histosols for Amchitka
Island (Everett, 1971) ••••••••
A listing of vascular plant species iden-
tified from Atka Island arranged according
to families following the nomenclature and
3-3
arrangement in Hulten (1968) ••••.• 3-17
Bird species observed within the Chuniisax
Stream area ••••••
u.S. Fish and Wildlife bird species list
and species occurrence for Atka Island,
Alaska . • • . • • •• •• • • •
Fishes observed within the Chuniisax Stream
• 3-31
3-32
area on Atka Island. • ••••••• •• 3-39
Marine algae of the Chuniisax Estuary ••.• 3-41
iv
LIST OF FIGURES
Page
Figure 1-1. Location map for the originally proposed
Chuniisax Creek hydropower project 1-2
Figure 1-2. Location map for Alternative 2 for the
Chuniisax Creek hydropower project 1-3
Figure 1-3. Location map for Alternative 3 for the
Chuniisax Creek hydropower project 1-4
Figure 1-4. Location map for Alternative 4 for the
Chuniisax Creek hydropower project 1-5
Figure 1-5. Location map for Alternative 5 for the
Chuniisax Creek hydropower project 1-6
Figure 1-6. Location map for Alternative 6 for the
Chuniisax Creek hydropower project 1-7
Figure 1-7. Location map for Alternative 7 for the
Chuniisax Creek hydropower project 1-8
Figure 2-1. Location Map of Soil Sampling Sites. · 2-3
Figure 2-2. Conditions at Soil Site #1 · · · · · · · · 2-4
Figure 2-3. Conditions at Soil Site #2 · · · · · · 2-5
Figure 2-4. Conditions at Soil Site #3 · · · · 2-6
Figure 2-5. Conditions at Soil Site #4 · · · · · · · · 2-7
Figure 2-6. Conditions at Soil Site #5 · · · · · · · · 2-8
Figure 2-7. Conditions at Soil Site #6 · · · · · · · · 2-9
Figure 2-8. Conditions at Soil Site #7 · · · · · · 2-10
Figure 2-9. Conditions at Soil Site #8 · · · · · · 2-11
Figure 2-10. Conditions at Soil Site #9 · · · · 2-12
Figure 2-11. Conditions at Soil Site #10. · · · · · · · 2-13
Figure 2-12. Gradation curve for soil sample between
Soil Sites #2 and #5 . . . · · · · · · · · 2-14
v
J
LIST OF FIGURES (Cont'd)
Page
Figure 2-13. Gradation curve for soil sample at Soil
Site #8. · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 2-15
Figure 2-14. Gradation curve for soil sample at Soil
Site #9. · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 2-16
Figure 2-15. Gradation curve for soil sample at Soil
Site #10 · · · · · · · · · · · · · 2-17
Figure 2-16. Configuration of the meteorological data
collection system. · · · · · · · · · · · · 2-20
Figure 2-17. Plot of measured air temperatures at Atka
and long-term means at Adak. · · · · · · · 2-33
Figure 2-18. plot of measured precipitation at Atka and
long-term means at Adak. · · · · · · · 2-45
Figure 2-19. Configuration of the water level recorder
installation · · · · · · · · · · · · · · · 2-48
Figure 2-20. Channel configuration of Chuniisax Creek
(looking downstream) in the vicinity of
Figure 2-21.
Figure 2-22.
Figure 2-23.
Figure 2-24.
Figure 2-25.
Figure 3-1.
Figure 3-2.
the gauging station. • • • • • • • 2-50
Determination of Manning's lin II for
Chuniisax Creek. · · · · · · · ·
Rating curve for Chuniisax Creek near
Atka, Alaska · · · · · · · ·
Mean monthly discharge for Chuniisax
Creek nea r Atka, Al aska. • • • • • •
Maximum instantaneous discharge for
Chuniisax Creek near Atka, Alaska ••
Minimum instantaneous discharge for
Chuniisax Creek near Atka, Alaska. •
·
·
The Chusiisax survey area. • · . . . .
Vegetation communities along the Chuniisax
2-51
2-53
2-58
2-59
2-60
3-2
stream corridor. • • • • •• ••••• 3-6
vi
LIST OF FIGURES (Cont'd)
Figure 3-3. Bird habitats of the survey area on Atka
Island • • . •• •••• •• ••. 3-30
Figure 3-4. Waterfalls affected by the proposed
project. . • • • • • . • •. 3-37
Figure 3-5. Important habitat areas of the Chuniisax
project. • • • • • . • •• •••••• 3-43
Figure 4-1. Archaeological site within the Chuniisax
stream area. • . • • • •• •• • • •. 4-4
vii
/ '
1.0 INTRODUCTION
1.1 Description of the Proposed Project
Construction of a hydropower project on Chuniisax Creek is being
considered in order to meet the existing and projected power
requirements at Atka, Alaska. The original project as proposed
included an impoundment above Falls F on Chuniisax Creek and a
2,300 to 2,500 ft long penstock to a powerhouse located at tide
water (see Figure 1-1). It was believed that this configuration
could provide the necessary head (103 ft) and flow (10 cfs) re-
quired to operate an existing turbine at Atka. Since this
alternative would potentially adversely affect anadromous fish
present in the stream below the dam site (particularily below
Falls B), this alternative is no longer being considered. Con-
sequently, six other alternatives were examined. These included
various combinations of intake structure design, intake and
outlet structure locations, and penstock locations. These are
as indicated on Figures 1-2 through 1-7 and are summarized in
Table 1-1.
Based on analyses by Northern Technical Services, Inc. and Van
Gulik and Associates, Inc. two alternatives were believed to be
preferable. Alternative 2 (Figure 1-2)included a dam or wier
located above Falls F, a 1,500 to 1,800 ft long penstock follow-
ing the northeast side of Chuniisax Creek, and powerhouse and
tailrace located at Falls B. A second alternative (Alternative
4) on Figure 1-4 included a wier above Falls D, a 950 ft long
penstock along the southwest side of the Creek, and a powerhouse
and tailrace located on the east bank of Chuniisax Creek ap-
proximately 300 ft below Falls B. This latter alternative
appears to be preferable from the standpoint of engineering
constructability and costs.
1-1
I-'
I
N
Note· L . etters d fall' enote
s locations.
o 600 ~oo
Icala In feel
Figure 1-1
GAUGING CROSS S STATION ECTION-~I
Q
/ /~
I-'
I
w
Note' L • etters d falls' I enote ocations.
o 500 . ~.I 1,000
e In feet
o
/
/
Note' L • etters d fall' enote
s locations.
o 1500 ~oo
lea Ie In feet
Figure 1-3.
/ /~
c
I-'
I
U1
Note· L . etters d f enote
ails' locat" Ions.
/ /~
o
PENSTOCK \ ALIGNMENT ___ ' B
\
......
I
en
. etters d Note· L fall' enote
s locations.
o 500 ~oo
acale In feel
I--'
I
-.....J
Note· L • etters de f' note
ails locat" Ions.
o 1100 ~oo
acale In feet
/
/
f-'
I
OJ
Note· L • etters d falls' I enote ocations.
o 1500 ~oo
acala In feet
Figure 1-7.
Q
Table 1-1. Summary of alternatives reviewed for hydropower development at Chuniisax Creek.
Intake Intake Tailrace Powerhouse Approximate Estimated
Alternative Location Structure Location Location Penstock Length Potential Head
Above Dam or Tidewater Offstream 2,300-2,500 ft 200 ft ( est. )
Falls F Wier
2 Above Dam or At or Above Northeast 1,500-1,800 ft 100-110 ft
Falls F Wier Falls B bank
3 Above Dam or 300 ft down-Northeast 2,200 ft 140 ft
Falls F Wier stream of bank
Falls B
I-'
I 4 Above Wier 300 ft down-Northeast 950 ft 105-125 f t I..D
Falls D stream of bank
Falls B
5 Above Wier 300 ft down-Southwest 850 ft 85-90 ft
Falls D stream of bank
Falls B
6 Above Wier Below Southwest 500 ft 80-85 ft
Falls D Falls B bank
7 Above Wier Above Southwest 250 ft 35 ft
Falls D Falls C bank
The final configuration for the proposed project is still being
reviewed and may change in response to further information
regarding fisheries impact.
Other alternatives considered were not deemed suitable either
for construction difficulties (Alternative 3) or for failure to
meet the head requirements for the existing turbine
(Alternatives 5, 6 and 7).
1.2 Project Scope and Objectives
Northern Technical Services, Inc. (NORTEC) was contracted by the
Alaska Power Authority (APA) in August, 1982 to collect data
necessary to determine whether to proceed with a feasibility
study for a hydroelectric project at Chuniisax Creek near Atka,
Alaska. NORTEC was assisted by Van Gulik and Associates, Inc.
for various engineering and design related aspects of the pro-
ject. Specifically NORTEC was contracted to perform the
following tasks:
Task 1 -Obtain requisite permits for conducting field
programs.
Task 2 -Install a stream gauge on Chuniisax Creek and
collect one year of strea~ flow data.
Task 3 -Perform a reconnaissance evaluation of environ-
mental factors pertinent to the proposed project.
Task 4 -Evaluate local archaeological sites in the vicini-
ty of the proposed project.
Task 5 -Install a recording precipitation gauge and tem-
perature recording station at the site and collect
one year of data.
1-10
Task 6 -Assess future permitting and land status as it
relates to the project.
Task 7 -Perform an analysis of the potential use of waste
heat captured from the community's new diesel
generators.
Task 8 -Prepare progress, draft and final reports as
required.
The purpose of this document is to fulfill the requirements for
a final report (Task 8) which summarizes the results of studies
and analyses related to the aforementioned tasks. Chapter 2.0
primarily addresses Tasks 2, 3 (partial) and 5. Chapter 3.0
covers biological aspects of Task 3. Chapter 4.0 discusses the
archaeology of the area (Task 4). Task 6 is covered in Chapter
5.0, and referenced material is indicated in Chapter 6.0.
Results of studies for Task 7 have been reported separately at
the direction of the Alaska Power Authority.
1-11
2.0 PHYSICAL ENVIRONMENTAL CONSIDERATIONS
2.1 General
Atka Island is 240 miles west of Nikolski, 100 miles east of
Adak and 1,100 miles west of Anchorage. Atka village is located
at the head of Nazan Bay on the east coast of Atka Island. The
island, one of the Andreanof group of the Aleutian Island Chain
lies in an area of intense seismic activity. Atka's landforms
include rugged mountains, deep bays, and rocky cliffs. The
coastal village is surrounded by undulating topography with
steep ravines carved by small streams.
Chuniisax Creek, situated approximately 0.6 miles to the
southwest of the present location of Atka Village, is being
investigated for the proposed hydroelectric project. The
drainage area is approximately nine square miles and is
characterized by very steep topographic relief with undulating
hills, accounting for a "multiple order" catchment basin.
Physical conditions evaluated as part of this study include the
geology and soils, climate, meteorology, and hydrology of the
general region and of the Chuniisax Creek Basin. Methods used
in the evaluation of these conditions as well as data collected
and analyzed are presented in the following sections.
2.2 Geology and Soils
2.2.1 Study Methods
Soils and geological conditions at the proposed dam site area
were investigated December 9-14, 1982. Proposed penstock
alignments were selected as well as staging areas, powerhouse
locations and road access. A location map for the various
2-1
project components as well as the area to be inundated by the
impoundment were presented in Figures 1-1 through 1-7.
Ten (10) soil sampling locations were investigated at the
proposed inundation area, staging area and dam site locations
(see Figure 2-1). Maximum depth of investigation at any site
was approximately 6.5 ft; however, cut banks along sharp mean-
ders provided soil profiles as thick as 12 ft. Soil samples
were also collected at selected locations and subjected to
mechanical analysis using dry sieve techniques.
2.2.2 Results
Physical relief in the area of the proposed project is very
steep and a planned ground survey is recommended to delineate
exact penstock alignments. The two proposed penstock alignments
and road access alignments will have to cross steep slopes,
which during construction, could feasibly bring the slopes past
the angle of repose, due to vegetation removal and loss of
support.
The area of inundation is covered with thick maritime tundra
underlain with organics and silty sand underlain with weather
andesite bedrock at depths from 1.5 ft to possibly 12.0 ft deep.
Stable bedrock prevail below these depths. Soils within the
inundation area were consistently similar, with depth to bedrock
being the only significant difference between sites (see Figures
2-2 through 2-11).
Results of mechanical analysis on selected samples using a dry
sieve technique are presented in Figures 2-12 through 2-15.
Results indicated that the original visual Unified Soil
Classifications were accurate as observed in the field.
Gradation curves show that the soil analyzed was slightly
coarser than initially believed; however, the samples tested
2-2
l>J
I
W
LEGEND
o 1i00 ~OO
ecele In feet
Figure 2-1.
a
I /
I-
ILl
ILl ..J
"-0
[l)
Z :E
>-
(/') :r
I-..J a.
ILl 0
0 (/')
0
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
II
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
<S:
ILl a::
<S:
z
ILl
N
0 a::
"-
BORING NUMBER : ____ ....:;#:.......;...1 ____ _
OAT E OF BOR 1 NG : ___ ..:..:12=---.::::..9_--=.8.=2 ___ _
TOTAL OEPTH: ___ ~S~U~R~F~A~C=E _____ ___
501 L OEseR I PT ION
TOP OF HILL. EXPOSED ANDES ITE BEDROCK WI 0.0" -10.0" OF
ORGANI C MOSS MAT.
LOCATION:
SITE # 1 -APPROX. 400 ft. UPSTREAM OF PROPOSED DAM SITE,
ON TOP OF HILL.
SOIL PROF I L£ :
~EXPOSED BEDROCK
Figure 2-2. Conditions at Soil Site #1.
2-4
I-
ILl <t ILl ....J ILl "-0 a:: CD <t Z ~ ->-
(f) Z
I ILl
I-....J N a. -0
ILl 0 a::
0 (f) \"-
o -
-SM
f 1 -
w z
2 -0 z
-ML I 3 -
-
4
-
5 -
-
6 -
-
7 -
-
8 -
-
9 -
-
10 --
II -
-
12 --
13 -
-
14 --
15 -
-
16 -
-
17 -
-
18 -
-
19 -
-
Figure 2-3.
BORING NUMBER: ________ #~2~ ______ __
OAT E OF BOR I NG : ____ ...:..:12::..-_9:::...--::..82=-___ _
TOTAL DEPTH: _______ 4~.~O_f~t~. ______ _
501 L OEseR I PT ION
3" OF GRASS ROOTS AND ORGANICS, GRADING TO FINE SAND wi SOME
SILTS wi 30 % ORGANICS TO 1.5 ft.
GRADING TO SILTS WITH SOME SAND AND APPROX. 15% ORGANICS
TO 3.0 ft. VERY MOIST.
EASILY POUNDED REBAR TO 4.0 ft. WITHOUT HITTING BEDROCK
LOCATION:
SITE # 2 -APPROX. 200 ft. 'UPSTREAM OF PROPOSED DAM SITE.
APPROX. 70 ft. FROM LE FT EDGE OF WATER. APPROX.
15 ft. ABOVE STREAM WATER SURFACE.
SOIL PROFILE:
\l; 'u \V J; J; VI ....... .. . . :., .... >f;:. .•. . '":T .. . .. ~: ..
FINE SAND WI SOME SILTS; 30% ORGANICS (SM)
____ 1.5'
SILT wi SOME SAND; 15 % ORGANICS (ML)
--__ 3.0'
LL----4.0·
DEPTH TO BEDROCK UNKNOWN
Conditions at Soil Site #2.
2-5
····T··
I-
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W oJ LL.. 0
CD
Z ::iE r
fJ')
::I:
I-oJ a.. w 0
0 (/)
0--
1 -SM
-
2 -
3-
-
4-
-
5 -
-
6 --
1 --
8-
-
9--
10 -
-
II --
12 --
13 -
-
14 --
15 --
16 -
-
11 -
-
18 -
-
19 -
-
<l
W a:
<l
z
W
N
0 a:
\LL.. ,
W z
0 z
!
BOR 1 NG NUMBER : ___ ....:#:......:::3 _____ _
DATE OF BORING: ___ 12_-9_-_8_2 ___ _
TOTAL DEPTH: ____ ~2~.~0_f~t_. ___ __
SOIL DESCRIPTION
3.0" OF GRASS ROOTS AND ORGANICS. 1.15 ft. OF SILTY SANDS
WI 25 % ORGANICS TO 2.0 ft.
HIT WEATHERED BEDROCK AT 2.0 ft.
LOCATION:
SITE # 3 -APPROX. 100 ft. UPSTREAM OF PROPOSED DAM SITE
AND 10.0 ft. FROM RIGHT EDGE OF WATER.
APPROX. 4.0 ft. ABOVE STREAM WATER SURFACE.
SOIL PROFILE.'
BEDROCK
Figure 2-4. Conditions at Soil Site #3.
2-6
I-
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W I.L.
z -
:r:
I-a.
W c
0-
-
1 -
-
2 -
-
3 --
4
-
5 -
-
6 -
-
7 -
-
8 -
-
9-
-
10 -
-
II -
-
12 -
-
13 -
-
14 -
-
15 -
-
16 -
-
17 -
-
18 -
-
19 -
-
< ...J W 0 a:: III < :::E
~
(/) z
w
...J N -0
0 a::
(/) \I.L.
SM t
w z
0 z
SM I
BORING NUMBER: _____ ~#~4 ________ __
OAT E OF BORI NG : ___ '_2_-_9_-_8_2 ___ -
TOTAL DEPTH: _______ 4_.0 __ f_t. ______ __
SOl L OEseR I PT ION
3.0 in. OF GRASS ROOTS AND ORGANICS, GRADING TO FINE SAND wI
SOME S IL TS wI 20 % ORGAN I CS TO I. 5 ft.
FINE SAND WI SOME SILTS W!15 % ORGANICS TO 3.0 ft.
VERY MOl ST.
VERY EASILY POUNDED REBAR TO 4.0 ft. WITHOUT HITTING BEDROCK
LOCATION:
SITE # 4 -APPROX. 400 ft. -450 ft. UPSTREAM OF PROPOSED DAM
SITE ON SMALL ISLAND TO BE PARTIALLY INUNDATED.
APPROX. 25 ft. FROM RIGHT EDGE OF WATER
SOIL PROFILE: LOOK ING UPSTREAM
ICE* L
ISLANO""
~.-'---......
FINE SANOS
wI SOME SILT -
NOTE: NO FLOW IN RIGHT CHANNEL (LOOKING DOWNSTREAM) PAST
SMALL ISLAND. COMPLETELY FROZEN TO CHANNEL BED.
Figure 2-5. Conditions at Soil Site #4.
2-7
I-
W c{ W ...J W u.. 0 a: m c{ z ::::: ->-
tn Z :I: W
I-...J N a... 0 w 0 a:
0 tn \u..
0-
-SM
1 -
2 -t -ML UJ
3 -z
0 z
4 -
-ML? I
5 -
-
6 -
7 -
-
8 -
-
9 -
-
10 --
II -
-
12 --
13 -
-
14 -
-
15 --
16 -
-
17 -
-
18 -
-
19 -
-
BORING NUM8ER: ____ ::...#....::5~ ___ _
DATE OF BOR I NG : ___ :....:12=--_9=---..:.8..:.2 ___ _
TOTAL DEPTH: ________ ~6~.5~ft~. ______ ___
SOIL DESCRIPTION
SOIL PROFILE SIMILAR TO SITE # 2. APPROX. 3.0 in. OF GRASS ROOTS
AND ORGAN ICS GRADING TO MED. SANDS WI SOME SILTS WI 30 %
ORGANICS TO 1.5 ft.
GRADING TO SANDY SILTS Wi 15 % ORGANICS TO 3.5 ft.
WEATHERED BEDROCK
EASILY POUNDED REBAR TO 4.0 ft., HIT WEATHERED BEDROCK AT
5.0 ft., COULD NOT POUND REBAR AFTER 6.5 ft. -BEDROCK.
LOCATION:
SITE # 5 -APPROx. 250 ft. UPSTREAM OF PROPOSED DAM SITE,
AND APPROX. 200 ft. FROM RIGHT EDGE OF WATER.
APPROX. 20 ft. ABOVE STREAM WATER SURFACE.
SOIL PROFILE.'
I. 5'
·: .. t:·: .;-.t, .. :, { J/ ,r GRADE
....... :' ... :;:.: .... , •. ..:::. MED. SANDS wI SOMETSILTS, 30% ORG.
SANDY SILTS WI 15 % ORGANICS
3.5'
SANDY SILTS W/15% ORGANICS
WEATHERED BEDROCK
BEDROCK
Figure 2-6. Conditions at Soil Site #5.
2-8
.....
ILl <l ILl ....J ILl I.L.. 0 a:: CD <l Z ~
>-
(/) z :x: ILl ..... ....J N
Cl. 0
ILl 0 a::
CI (f) I.L..
0
2
3 :x: u
0
4 a::
CI
ILl
CD
5
6
7
8
9
10
/I
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
BORING NUMBER: #6
DATE OF BORING: 12-9-82
TOTAL DEPTH: SURFACE-EXPOSED
SOIL DEseR I PT ION
EXPOSED WEATHERED BEDROCK ON BOTH SIDES OF STREAM.
NEARLY VERTICAL WALLS 1 JUST ABOVE WATER FALLS.
LOCATION:
SITE # 6 -DAM SITE AREA.
PROFIL£ :
Figure 2-7. Conditions at Soil Site #6.
2-9
BEDROCK
~
UJ
UJ
~
z -
J:
~ a..
UJ
0
o -
-
1 -
-
2 -
-
3
-
4
-
5 -
-
6 -
-
7 -
-
8 -
-
9 -
-
10 -
-
II -
-
12 --
13 -
-
14 -
-
15 -
-
16 -
-
17 -
-
18 -
-
19 -
-
c:(
..J UJ 0 0:: CD c:( :E
>-
(/') Z
UJ
..J N
0
0 a::
(/') \~
Pt
f---I
\AI z SM 0 z
I
SW?
BOR I NG NUMBER : ____ #_7 _____ _
DATE OF BORING: __ ~12~-_9~-_8~2~ ___ _
TOTAL DEPTH: ___ 4~.O~f~t~. _____ _
501 L DEseR I PT ION
SOILS WERE GENERALLY FINE TO MED. SANDS wi SOME SILTS
WI THE UPPER PORTION CONTAINING CONSIDERABLY MORE
ORGAN I CS (GRASSES 4.0 ft. TALL), WITH THE LOWER PORTION
INDICATING A MORE ROCKY STRUCTURE, THE SITE BEING NEAR
THE BEACH.
POUNDED REBAR 4.0 ft. WITH SOME RESISTANCE, DID NOT APPEAR
TO HIT BEDROCK.
LOCATION:
SITE #: 7 -PROPOSED STAGING AREA AND POWER HOUSE
LOCATION.
SEE PLAN VIEW -LOCATION MAP
Figure 2-8. Conditions at Soil Site #7.
2-10
-
~
UJ
UJ
~
z -
:I:
~
0..
UJ
0
o -
-
1 -
2 -
-
3 -
-
4-
5 -
-
6 -
-
7 -
-
8 -
-
9 -
-
10 -
-
II -
-
12 -
-
13 -
-
14 -
-
15 -
-
16 -
-
17 -
-
18 -
-
19 -
-
« .J UJ 0 a:: CD « :2:
>-
If) Z
UJ
.J N -0 0 a::
If) \~
SM I
w z
0 z
ML !
BORING NUMBER: ___ ....:#:.:........::8~ ____ _
DATE OF BORING: __ ....:.1=.2_-...:...14~-..:.8=.2 ___ _
TOTAL DEPTH: ____ 4~.5~ft~. ____ __
SOIL DESCRIPTION
3.0 in. OF GRASS ROOTS AND ORGANICS, GRADING TO FINE SAND
WITH SOME SILTS wi 30 % ORGANICS TO 1.5 ft.
GRADING TO SILTS WITH SOME SAND wi 15 -20 % ORGANICS
TO 3.5 ft.
EASILY POUNDED REBAR TO 4.5 ft. WIOUT HITTING BEDROCK
LOCATION:
SITE # B -APPROX. 550 ft. UPSTREAM OF PROPOSED DAM SITE,
APPROX. 75.0 ft. FROM LEFT EDGE OF WATER, AND
APPROX. 12.0 ft. ABOVE STREAM WATER SURFACE
SOIL PROFILE.'
···::V·
FINE SAND WI SOME SILT, 30°/0 ORGANICS
--1.5'
SILTS wi SOME SAND, 15 -20 % ORGANICS
DEPTH TO BEDROCK UNKNOWN
Figure 2-9. Conditions at Soil Site #8.
2-11
....
W
W .J
10.. 0
CD
Z :2 ->-
U)
J: .... .J Il.
W 0
0 U)
o -
-
1 -SM
-
2
-
3 -
-
4 -
-
5 -
-
6 --
7 -
-
8 -
-
9 -
-
10 -
-
\I -
-
12 --
13 --
14 -
-
15 -
-
16 --
17 -
-
18 -
-
19 -
-
<t
W
0::
<t
Z
W
N
0
0::
\10..
t
w z
0 z
!
BOR I NG NU MBER : ___ ---..:#:........:::9 _____ _
DATE OF BORING : ___ 12_-_1_4_----...:...8_2 ___ _
TOTAL DEPTH: ___ ~2~.~0~f~t.___...:... ___ _
SOIL DESCRIPTION
APPROX. 2.0 in. OF GRASS ROOTS AND ORGAN ICS, APPROX. I. 75 ft.
OF FINE SANDS W/ SOME SILTS. VERY DARK TURNING RED/ MAROON
2.0 ft. WEATHERED BEDROCK AT 2.0 ft.
POUNDED REBAR 2.0 ft. HITTING WEATHERED BEDROCK.
INTERSECTED THE WATER TABLE AT 1.5 ft.
LOCATION:
SITE # 9 -APPROX. 3.0 ft. FROM LEFT EDGE OF WATER. AND
APPROX. 3.0 ft. ABOVE STREAM WATER SURFACE
SOIL PROFILE:
V~~ .. +: .... :?;f.' ..
FINE SANDS wi SOME SILT
___ -1.5' WATER TABLE
_/~ ~~ 2.0' WEATHERED BEDROCK <fj7ji;; // 'i~'l' \......_-~-_.../
Figure 2-10. Conditions at Soil Site #9.
2-12
I-
W
W ..J LL 0
III
Z :::: ->-en r
I-...J Il. -
W 0
0 en
o -
-
1 -
-
2 -SM
-
3 -
-
4 -
-
5
-
6 -
-
7 -
-
8 -
-
9 -
-
10 -
-
II -
-
12 --
13 -
-
14 -
-
15 -
-
16 -
-
17 -
-
18 -
-
19 -
-
~
W a::
~
Z
W
N
0 a::
\LL
1
w z
0 z
1
BOR I NG NUMBER : ___ ....:#:.-1:..;::0 _____ _
DATE OF BORING: __ --'-1~2_---'-1....:.4_-....:::8:..=2~ __ _
TOTAL DEPTH: ____ 5~.:..:::O_ft_. ____ __
SOIL DESCRIPTION
3.0 in. OF 'GRASS ROOTS AND ORGANICS, GRADING TO FINE SAND WI
SOME SILT WI 30% ORGANICS TO 1.5 ft.
GRADING TO SILTS WI SOME SAND AND 15 -20 % ORGANICS
TO 5.0'
EASILY POUNDED REBAR TO 5.0 ft. WI OUT HITTING BEDROCK
LOCATION:
SITE # 10 -APPROX. 6.0 ft. ABOVE STREAM WATER SURFACE 1
APPROX. 10.0 ft. FROM RIGHT EDGE OF WATER
SOIL PROFILE:
---------l\--___ ~"--_f
'-----=--'./
'.:.!,:.:. . -: .. ~.; , ... ::.6-:.'.' .. ~?i:::" .
FINE SAND WI SOME SILT
r--I.S'
SILTS WI SOME SAND
-S.D'
DEPTH TO BEDROCK UNKNOWN
Figure 2-11. Conditions at Soil Site #10.
2-13
SAMPLE # 1, BETWEEN SITES 2 a 5
U.S. Standard Sieve Numb." Hydrom.ter
100
, 4 . '-I) ..... 20 !:t 40 SO 60 70 100 140· ZOO ITO
I I I I I 1 I I II 0
90 1\ 10
80 \
\
20
-, -.I:. 70 '" \ •
30 ~
0 • ~ ,
>-60
.0 ~
~
40 ,." .a .. .. \ • 50 c \ ~
.. •
50 ..
0
Q
U , -
IV -40 c \ I • I-' u .. \ ~ • Cl. 30 \
60 c • u .. • Cl.
70
20 "'\ eo
10 90
100
I O.OQ
1
0 10 , I 105 0.1 10.05 I 0.01 10005
I : Grain Size in Millimeters I I
I I
GRAVEL I SAND SILT CLAY
fine Coarse l Medium I fine I Coar .. Medium I fine I Coarse I
M.I.T. Classification
Unified Soil Classification: SM -medium to fine sands wI some silts
Figure 2-12. Gradation curve for soil sample between Soil Sites #2 and #5.
SOIL SAMPLE #2 AT SITE 8
u. S. Standard .Sieve Numb.rs Hydrometer
100
, .. • • I) 14 " o ~o 40 06010 100 140 200 ITO 0 I , , I I I I
90 10
" 80 , 20
-\ -~ 70 30 z:
CII CII
• ~ • ~ \ ~
60 40 ,....
>-D
D 1\ ...
\ .. ... • ... • 50 50 0 c \ 0
~ u
\ -N -40 60 c
c • I \ u • ... I-' u • VI .. \ ~ • ~ 30 ~ 70
20 80
10 90
0 10
100 , I I 0.' 0.1 o.~ I 0.01 10005 0,001
I l Grain Sin 'in Millimeters ! I
I
GRAVEL I SAND I SILT CLAY I
Fine. I Coorse Medium I Fin. I Coar .. I Medium I Fine ICoorseJ
M.I.T. elossific:ation
Unified Soil Classification: SM -silty sands
Figure 2-13. Gradation curve for soil sample at Soil Site #8.
SOIL SAMPLE # 3 AT SITE 9
U. S. Standard Sieve Number~ Hydrometer
100 nn~'~4r.r·nr·~T-~K~'·~~rro~~~;O~~~7TO-~~~1~40nnmr)~~r°'-~ __ ~ ____ Mn~~~~~~----~ I I II I II I o
10
"
~ 70 1-Hf+-1-+-+-+-+---+++++-+--+-\f\-+--H-iI+-H-+-+--t----f++++++-+--t----1 30
• ~ ~ ~ 60 t+lf-+-t-+-+-+-+---+++++-+--f-""'""\-i---HI-H-+-+-+-+--+---++++4-+-If---'I---+------4 40
.. \ ~ 50 I-HHrr;-T~--~----rH~r;-T-+~,~----+++T+-~~~_+----~~~+_~+__+----4 50
~ 40 HH~r1~~--~----rH~r1-+~--~\----++~+-+-I~I---+-----+++44-+-~+--4----~ 60
: 30 \
\ 70
20 \ 80 ,
10 90
o l~oLL~~'~~~-+I----~~~I~O.~S~~--+---~O~I~~~~~~~I-..-+I-----~OL1~L+,o-o~o~,~L--4I----o.-J~OO
l l Groin Size in Millimeters ! ! !
GRAVEL SAND I SILT I CLAY J
Fine I Coarse I Medium I Fine Coarse Medium I Fine Coarse I
M.I.T. Classification
Unified Soil Classification: SM -medium to fine sands wI trace of slit
Figure 2-14. Gradation curve for soil sample at Soil Site #9.
:...
.D ..
II • .. a a u -c • u .. • CL
SOIL SAMPLE # 4 AT SITE 10
Hydrometer
o
10
20
30 -.I:
gI • ~
40 ~ .a ... .. • 50 ... a a u -60 c • u ... • a..
70
80
90
0 10 5 I I 0.5 01 o.~ I 0.01 10005 : : Groin Size in Millimeters ~ I
100
I 0.00t
!
GRAVEL I SAND SILT CLAY
Fine Coarse Medium I Fine I Coarse I Medium I Fine I Coarse I
M.I.T. Classification
Unified Soil Classification: SM -very fine sand wI silt.
Figure 2-15. Gradation curve for soil sample at Soil Site #10.
were from shallow depths (1.5 -2.5 ft) while visual observa-
tions of cut banks were obtained to slightly greater depths.
Hydraulic conductivities for the shallower soils are estimated
to be in the order of magnitude from 0.3 -1.0 ft/hr (8.3xlO-5
-2.8xlO-4 ft/sec).
These samples and observations are indicative of shallow depths
only, and test drilling will be necessary to adequately define
soil characteristics for significant structural foundation
loads.
Bedrock in the dam site area is believed to be andesite, having
an extremely high hardness of 8.5. Bedrock is generally exposed
and weathered near the dam site.
In terms of soils/foundation capabilities to estimate stability
and load bearing characteristics at the proposed dam and power-
house sites, the preliminary soils analysis estimates these
values:
Organics -very soft, compressible and are not reliable in
terms of load bearing capabilities and stabil-
ity.
Sands and Silts -can support static vertical loads on the
order of 2,000 -3,000 pounds/ft 2 •
Andesite rock -is very competent and stable, and can
support static vertical loads on the
order of 10,000 -12,000 pounds/ft 2 •
Dam and powerhouse foundations will require placement within the
andesite rock for adequate stability; however, deeper bore holes
are required to adequately evaluate the structure of the
2-18
andesite rock both at the proposed dam site and powerhouse loca-
tions.
2.3 Climate and Meteorology
2.3.1 Study Methods
A meteorological data collection station was installed at the
terminus of a small access road which leads from the village
of Atka to the present location of the village's generator power
house. This location was selected to afford some protection
from high winds and facilitate access to a 110 volt power outlet
required for the heated precipitation gauge. The data collect-
ion site is situated 50 to 60 ft from the shoreline of Nazan Bay
and approximately 15 to 20 ft above mean sea level (MSL). Most
of the area surrounding the installation is covered with thick
maritime tundra while adjacent areas are tide affected rocky
shorelines. Extreme winds in excess of 120 mph have been
recorded at Atka and this phenomenon directly affected
installation specifications.
A standard National Weather Service louvered weather shelter
installation was required to house the continuous readout therm-
ograph and precipitation event recorder (see Figure 2-16). The
louvered weather shelter prevents direct radiation from imping-
ing on the thermograph and allows free air circulation. The
weather shelter was assembled in the field and rigidly installed
in order to withstand high velocity winds. Four metal legs were
buried 1.0 ft into the ground and anchored to an adjacent
storage building.
A continuous readout thermograph (Weathermeasure's Model T6llS)
was installed to record temperatures throughout the data
collection period. The instrument was calibrated in the field
using two high accuracy mercury thermometers. The thermograph
2-19
THERMOGRAGH
I
5.0'
Figure 2-16.
1--------NOT LESS THAN 100'---------1
LOUVERED SHELTER
COUNTER FOR
RAIN GAUGE
4.0'
, I , ,
. , ' , , ,
Configuration of the meteorological data
collection system.
2-20
TIPPING BUCKET
RAIN GAUGE
provided a continuous readout of temperature (in degrees Fahren-
heit) by means of a bimetalic strip mechanism, a spring wound
clock, and a seven-day revolving drum with interchangeable
charts.
A tipping bucket rain/snow gauge with an internal heating
element (Weathermeasure's model P511-E) was installed to record
precipitation (in all forms) for the data collection period.
The instrument was securely fastened to a 12" X 12" x 7' block
of lumber which was anchored by rebar. The instrument operates
by means of a tipping bucket thus reducing any evaporation
losses. The internal heating element melts precipitation in
solid forms and allows for the volume to be recorded. The
heating element is connected to a 110 volt AC outlet within the
village's generator powerhouse. A second (two conductor) wire
leads to a continuous readout event recorder, and the current
was completed by means of a 6 volt alkaline battery. The event
recorder records each tilt of the bucket and was calibrated in
the field to tilt for each 1/100 of an inch of precipitation.
The instrument operates by means of a spring-wound clock and a
seven-day revolving drum with interchangeable charts.
An Atka resident was hired to change the weather instrument
charts and send all data to NORTEC's Anchorage office for
analysis.
2.3.2 Temperature Data
Temperature data was obtained from the thermograph charts and
are presented in Tables 2-1 through 2-11 on the following
pages. Mean monthly values for the year indicate the annual
variations of temperature through the seasons. Figure 2-17
provides the annual variations of mean monthly temperatures for
the selected site. Long-term means from Adak are also provided
for purposes of comparison. The lowest daily minimum temper-
ature recorded was 15.0°F on December 29, 1982 and the
2-21
Table 2-1. Maximum, minimum and mean air temperatures (OF) at
Atka, Alaska for December, 1982.
DAY MAX MIN tlEAN
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
23
24
25 29.0 21.0 25.0
26 30.0 23.5 26.8
27 26.0 22.0 24.0
28 23.5 18.0 20.8
29 19.0 15.0 17.0
30 34.0 17.5 25.8
31 34.0 32.0 33.0
MEAN 27.9 21 .3 24.6
Extreme I1aximum 34.0°F
Extreme Hinimum 15.0°F
2-22
Table 2-2. Maximum, m1n1mum and mean air temperatures (oF) at
Atka, Alaska for January, 1983.
DAY MAX MIN MEAN
1 33.5 30.0 31 .8
2 34.5 30.0 32.3
3 35.0 28.5 31 .8
4 37.5 35.0 36.3
5 36.5 34.5 35.5
6 35.0 29.0 32.0
7 34.5 31.0 32.8
8 34.5 32.0 33.3
9 35.0 32.0 33.5
10 35.5 32.5 34.0
11 36.5 34.0 35.3
12 34.0 32.0 33.0
13 34.0 28.0 31.0
14 30.0 23.0 26.5
15 25.5 19.0 22.3
16 30.0 20.0 25.0
17 30.0 23.0 26.5
18 30.0 23.0 26.5
19 31.0 23.5 27.3
20 31.5 22.0 26.8
21 30.0 24.5 27.3
22 33.0 25.0 29.0
23 36.0 32.0 34.0
24 34.5 28.0 31.3
25 33.0 26.0 29.5
26 32.0 24.0 28.0
27 37.0 30.0 33.5
28 37.5 29.0 33.3
29 33.5 27.0 30.3
30 37.5 29.0 33.3
31 37.5 34.0 35.8
MEAN 33.7 28.1 30.9
Extreme Maximum 37.5°F
Extreme Minimum 19.0°F
2-23
Table 2-3. Maximum, minimum and mean air temperatures (oF) at
Atka, Alaska for February, 1983.
DAY MAX MIN MEAN
1 38.0 34.5 36.3
2 38.0 36.0 37.0
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11 32.0 23.0 27.5
1 2 35.5 23.5 29.5
13 35.5 26.0 30.8
14 36.5 26.0 31.3
15 37.5 30.0 33.8
16 40.0 35.5 37.8
17 40.0 36.0 38.0
18 36.5 34.0 35.3
19 34.0 29.5 31 .8
20 33.0 28.5 30.8
21 29.5 26.0 27.8
22 31 .5 26.0 28.8
23 38.5 30.5 34.5
24 36.0 33.0 34.5
25 36.0 30.0 33.0
26 37.0 34.0 35.5
27 37.0 32.0 34.5
28
MEAN 35.9 30.2 33.1
Extreme Maximum 40.0°F
Extreme Minimum 23.0°F
2-24
Table 2-4. Maximum, mlnlmum and mean air temperatures (OF) at
Atka, Alaska for May, 1983.
DAY MAX rUN MEAN
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11 42.0 38.0 40.0
12 43.0 38.0 40.5
13 41.0 37.0 39.0
14 42.5 37.5 40.0
15 46.0 38.0 42.0
16 48.0 37.5 42.8
17 46.0 37.5 41.8
18 46.5 39.0 42.8
19 42.5 40.0 41.3
20 44.0 36.0 40.0
21 45.5 37.0 41.3
22 42.5 35.0 38.8
23 45.5 35.5 40.5
24 43.0 39.0 41.0
25 43.0 39.5 41.3
26 42.5 38.0 40.3
27 42.5 37.5 40.0
28 42.5 38.5 40.5
29 40.0 36.0 38.0
30 42.0 36.5 39.3
31 40.0 37.5 38.8
MEAN 43.4 37.5 40.5
Extreme Maximum 48.0°F
Extreme Minimum 35.0°F
2-25
Table 2-5. Maximum, minimum and mean air temperatures (OF) at
Atka, Alaska for June, 1983.
DAY MAX MIN MEAN
1 44.0 38.0 41.0
2 44.0 38.0 41 .0
3 43.5 38.5 41 .0
4 42.0 37.5 39.8
5 46.5 39.0 42.8
6 42.0 40.5 41 .3
7 41 .5 40.0 40.8
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16 44.5 39.0 41.8
17 42.5 38.5 40.5
18 43.5 40.0 41 .8
19 47.0 41.0 44.0
20 48.0 42.0 45.0
21
22 49.5 44.5 47.0
23 46.0 41 .5 43.8
24 50.0 42.0 46.0
25 46.0 41 .0 43.5
26 43.5 41.0 42.3
27
28
29 44.5 42.0 43.3
30 50.0 41 .5 45.8
MEAN 45.2 40.3 42.8
Extreme Maximum 50.0°F
Extreme Minimum 37.5°F
2-26
Table 2-6. Maximum, minimum and mean air temperatures (oF) at
Atka, Alaska for July, 1983.
DAY MAX MIN MEAN
1 49.5 41.5 45.5
2 48.0 41 .5 44.8
3 50.0 42.0 46.0
4 51 .0 42.0 46.5
5 46.0 41.5 43.8
6 47.0 42.0 44.5
7 46.0 42.5 44.3
8 46.5 43.0 44.8
9 50.5 42.0 46.3
10 54.0 44.0 49.0
11 50.0 44.0 47.0
1 2 46.0 44.5 45.3
13 49.0 45.0 47.0
14 50.5 43.0 46.8
15 52.5 39.5 46.0
16 49.0 44.0 46.5
17 55.5 45.5 50.5
18 51.0 46.5 48.8
19 52.0 45.0 48.5
20 57.0 45.0 51.0
21 58.0 46.0 52.0
22 56.5 47.0 51.8
23 52.0 46.0 49.0
24 53.0 45.0 49.0
25 56.0 45.5 50.8
26 52.0 44.0 48.0
27 50.0 46.0 48.0
28 48.5 44.5 46.5
29 50.0 43.0 46.5
30 48.5 43.5 46.0
31 50.5 44.5 47.5
MEAN 50.8 43.8 47.4
Extreme Maximum 58.0°F
Extreme Minimum 39.5°F
2-27
Table 2-7. Maximum, minimum and mean air temperatures (oF) at
Atka, Alaska for August, 1983.
DAY MAX MIN MEAN
48.5 44.0 46.3
2 48.5 45.0 46.8
3 55.5 45.5 50.5
4 55.0 49.0 52.0
5
6
7
8
9
10 56.0 44.5 50.3
1 1 59.5 46.0 52.8
12 60.0 45.0 52.5
13 70.0 49.0 59.5
14 60.0 51.0 55.5
15 62.0 48.0 55.0
16 56.0 48.0 52.0
17 56.5 50.0 53.3
18 67.5 50.0 58.8
19 56.0 44.0 50.0
20 59.5 43.0 51.3
21 64.0 44.0 54.0
22 52.0 42.0 47.0
23 61.0 49.0 55.0
24 52.5 48.0 50.3
25 58.0 47.0 52.5
26 52.0 46.0 49.0
27 49.0 46.0 47.5
28 55.0 48.0 51.5
29 54.5 49.0 51.8
30 54.0 45.5 49.8
31 50.0 46.0 48.0
MEAN 56.6 46.6 51.7
Extreme Maximum 70.0°F
Extreme Minimum 42.0°F
2-28
Table 2-8. Maximum, minimum and mean air temperatures (oF) at
Atka, Alaska for September, 1983.
DAY MAX MIN MEAN
1 50.0 46.5 48.3
2 51 .0 39.5 45.3
3 51 .0 43.0 47.0
4 51.5 40.5 46.0
5 51.0 37.5 44.3
6 48.0 43.0 45.5
7 52.0 45.0 48.5
8 50.5 43.5 47.0
9 50.0 43.0 46.5
10 49.0 43.0 46.0
11 50.5 43.0 46.8
12 47.0 40.0 43.5
13 48.5 40.5 44.5
14 49.0 42.5 45.8
15 46.0 44.0 45.0
16 49.0 45.5 47.3
17 49.0 45.5 47.3
18 54.0 46.0 50.0
19 48.0 42.5 45.3
20 48.0 40.0 44.0
21 48.0 37.0 42.5
22 49.0 37.0 43.0
23 48.5 35.5 42.0
24 46.0 38.5 42.3
25 47.5 44.0 45.8
26 52.0 46.0 49.0
27 50.5 47.5 49.0
28 50.0 41.5 45.8
29 48.5 44.0 46.3
30 46.0 41.5 43.8
r·mAN 49.3 42.2 45.8
Extreme Maximum 54.0°F
Extreme Minimum 35.5°F
2-29
Table 2-9. Maximum, minimum and mean air temperatures (Op) at
Atka, Alaska for October, 1983.
DAY MAX r.1IN MEAN
1 46.0 42.0 44.0
2 49.0 37.0 43.0
3 53.5 46.0 49.8
4 49.0 46.0 47.5
5 49.0 45.0 47.0
6 45.0 33.5 39.3
7 47.5 44.5 46.0
8 50.0 41.0 45.5
9 48.5 38.0 43.3
10 44.5 34.0 39.3
11 45.5 32.5 39.0
12 46.5 37.0 41.8
13 46.5 36.0 41.3
14 42.0 36.0 39.0
15 43.5 36.0 39.8
16 40.5 38.5 39.5
17 41 .5 37.5 39.5
18 39.5 34.0 36.8
19 40.0 33.0 36.5
20 39.0 33.0 36.0
21 36.0 32.0 34.0
22 36.5 30.0 33.3
23 38.5 32.0 35.3
24 41 .0 33.5 37.3
25 46.5 34.0 40.3
26 44.0 35.5 39.8
27 42.0 36.0 39.0
28 38.0 32.5 35.3
29 41.0 32.5 36.8
30 40.0 31 .5 35.8
31 40.0 36.0 38.0
MEAN 43.5 36.3 40.0
Extreme Maximum 53.5°p
Extreme Minimum 30.0 o p
2-30
Table 2-10. Maximum, minimum and mean air temperatures (OF) at
Atka, Alaska for November, 1983.
DAY MAX MIN MEAN
1 37.0 33.0 35.0
2 37.0 30.5 33.8
3 35.0 28.0 31.5
4 41.0 31.0 36.0
5 42.0 37.0 39.5
6 39.5 32.5 36.0
7 37.0 30.5 33.8
8 38.0 30.0 34.0
9 39.0 25.5 37.3
10 33.0 27.5 30.3
1 1 34.0 28.0 31.0
1 2 33.0 29.0 31.0
13 32.0 24.0 28.0
14 29.5 23.5 26.5
15 32.5 25.0 28.8
16 34.5 30.0 32.3
17 32.0 26.5 29.3
18 32.0 26.0 29.0
19 38.0 31.5 34.8
20 37.0 33.5 35.3
21 33.5 27.0 30.3
22 36.5 25.0 30.8
23 40.0 35.0 37.5
24 38.0 35.5 36.8
25 37.0 33.0 35.0
26 37.0 29.0 33.0
27 34.0 30.0 32.0
28 34.5 32.0 33.3
29 35.0 30.5 32.8
30 34.5 29.5 32.0
MEAN 35.8 30.0 32.9
Extreme Maximum 42.0°F
Extreme Minimum 23.5°F
2-31
Table 2-11. Maximum, minimum and mean air temperatures (oF) at
Atka, Alaska for December, 1983.
DAY MAX MIN MEAN
1 34.5 30.0 32.3
2 39.5 33.5 36.5
3 39.0 32.5 35.8
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
MEAN 37.7 32.0 34.9
Extreme Maximum 39.5°F
Extreme Minimum 30.0°F
2-32
80°
70°
L:
III 60° w w a:
C> w 50° Cl
z
w 40°
a:
~
~ 30° a: w a.
:::!: w
I-20°
10°
Figure 2-17.
(ATKA MAXIMUM
/".
ADAK MEAN /.::.. .~.
(22 years of record) """" ••• ~: •••....................• '.'.
\ -:............ ..... ~ .... -......... /..... ":~ .... . .. ·····7·· ..... -............. ATKA/ ..... , •••• , .~ .... 7-.. 'I':.. •••••• MINIMUM ........
/' _--'----ATKA '
,," MEAN
"
DEC JAN MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV I
1982 1-1------------1983 --------------l.
plot of measured air temperatures at Atka and
long-term means at Adak.
2-33
highest daily maximum was 70.0°F on August 13, 1983. The
warmest month recorded was August with a mean monthly tempera-
ture of 51.7°F, and the coldest month recorded was December
(1982) with a mean monthly temperature of 24.6°F. The mean
annual temperature for the selected site was approximately
39.0°F. By comparison, the long-term mean for Adak is 40.9°F
(U.S. National Ocean Survey, 1979).
According to the local residents, the winter of 1982-83 was one
of the coldest in recent years. Many residents had noted that
it was the first year that they had observed Chuniisax Creek
completely frozen over with river ice.
2.3.3 Precipitation Data
Precipitation data, measured in hundreds of an inch, are
presented in Tables 2-12 through 2-21 on the following pages.
Daily, as well as monthly precipitation totals, are presented.
Figure 2-18 illustrates the annual precipitation regime for the
recording station.
The month of June appears to be the driest month of the year
with only 1.13 inches of precipitation. This monthly recording
was however, missing six days of data. Based on long-term
records for Adak, the period June through August is likely to be
the dry season for the region (Figure 2-18). The months from
October through January bring substantial precipitation to the
area, however, it is expected that some precipitation during
this period would occur as snow. The maximum monthly precipita-
tion at Atka occurred in October, 1983, during which 7.76 inches
were measured.
2-34
Table 2-12. Daily precipitation (inches) at Atka, Alaska for
December, 1982.
DAY
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
TOTAL
PRECIPITATION
( IN. )
0.09
0.10
1. 93
0.02
0.03
O. 14
o. 16
0.07
0.04
0.09
0.04
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.08
0.01
2.80
Days missing: December 1-15, 1982
Maximum Daily Precipitation: 1.93 inches
2-35
Table 2-13. Daily precipitation (inches) at Atka, Alaska
for January, 1983.
DAY
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
1 1
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
TOTAL
PRECIPITATION
( IN. )
0.12
0.23
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.03
0.05
0.10
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.06
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.40
0.31
0.22
O. 14
0.02
0.01
0.49
0.00
0.08
0.01
0.24
0.04
0.00
0.00
0.39
2.94
Maximum Daily Precipitation: 0.40 inches
2-36
Table 2-14. Daily precipitation (inches) at Atka, Alaska for
February, 1983.
DAY
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
1 1
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
TOTAL
PRECIPITATION
( IN. )
0.00
0.20
0.09
o. 12
0.48
0.04
0.00
0.06
0.01
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.04
0.24
0.34
0.09
0.38
0.52
0.12
2.73
Days Missing: February 4-10, 1983
Maximum Daily Precipitation: 0.52 inches
2-37
Table 2-15. Daily precipitation (inches) at Atka, Alaska for
May, 1983.
DAY
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
1 1
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
TOTAL
PRECIPITATION
( IN. )
0.00
O. 14
0.36
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
1. 07
O. 12
0.07
o .01
0.03
0.07
0.01
0.03
0.53
0.98
0.35
0.72
0.45
5.00
Days Hissing: May 1-10, 1983
Maximum Daily Precipitation 1.07 inches
2-38
Table 2-16. Daily precipitation (inches) at Atka, Alaska for
June, 1983.
DAY
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
1 2
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
TOTAL
PRECIPITATION
( IN. )
0.03
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.28
0.06
0.01
0.00
0.03
0.29
0.35
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.02
0.00
0.00
0.06
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
1 • 1 3
Days Missing: June 9-14, 1983
Maximum Daily Precipitation: 0.35 inches
2-39
Table 2-17. Daily precipitation (inches) at Atka, Alaska for
July, 1983.
DAY
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
1 1
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
TOTAL
PRECIPITATION
( IN. )
0.02
0.01
0.00
0.36
O. 13
0.00
0.50
0.16
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.25
0.04
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.10
0.03
0.66
0.00
0.23
0.55
0.84
0.01
0.03
0.05
0.37
0.02
0.00
0.00
0.00
4.36
Maximum Daily Precipitation: 0.84 inches
2-40
-,'
Table 2-18. Daily precipitation (inches) at Atka, Alaska for
August, 1983.
DAY
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
TOTAL
PRECIPITATION
( IN. )
0.00
0.03
o • 11
0.09
0.04
0.32
0.05
0.07
0.00
0.03
0.00
0.00
0.01
0.33
0.36
0.47
0.65
0.22
0.01
0.00
0.00
0.35
0.01
0.22
0.21
0.01
0.28
0.49
0.00
0.00
0.01
4.37
Maximum Daily Precipitation: 0.65 inches
2-41
Table 2-19. Daily precipitation (inches) at Atka, Alaska for
September, 1983.
DAY
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
1 2
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
TOTAL
PRECIPITATION
( IN. )
0.02
0.08
0.02
0.01
0.00
0.08
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.09
0.24
0.00
0.02
0.22
0.44
0.49
0.05
0.00
0.01
0.00
0.00
0.00
0.00
1. 38
0.37
0.07
0.45
0.27
1. 28
5.59
Maximum Daily Precipitation: 1.38 inches
2-42
Table 2-20. Daily precipitation (inches) at Atka, Alaska for
October, 1983.
DAY
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
TOTAL
PRECIPITATION
( IN. )
0.51
0.00
0.02
0.00
0.45
0.07
0.07
0.41
0.00
0.17
0.01
1. 26
o. 16
0.33
0.91
0.25
0.23
0.04
0.39
0.02
0.41
0.00
0.21
0.03
0.73
0.39
0.56
O. 13
7.76
Days Missing: October 29-30, 1983
Maximum Daily Precipitation: 1.26 inches
2-43
Table 2-21. Daily precipitation (inches) at Atka, Alaska for
November, 1983.
DAY
1
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
1 1
12
13
1 4
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
TOTAL
PRECIPITATION
( IN. )
0.01
0.05
0.16
0.91
0.17
0.00
0.04
1 .04
0.32
0.15
O. 19
0.00
0.00
0.01
0.01
0.00
0.00
0.78
0.13
0.01
O. 17
0.93
0.42
0.14
0.00
0.07
0.03
0.00
0.00
5.74
Days Missing: November 1, 1983
Maximum Daily Precipitation: 1.04 inches
2-44
6.0 , ,
7.0
II)
11.1
::I: 6.0 u
~
~ 5.0 z
0 ;::
~ l-4.0
a..
u
11.1 3.0 a:: a..
2.0
1.0
Figure 2-18.
,~ADAK MEAN
( 22 years of record) , , 1\ , / , , ~ \
\, ~ , , ., ......... I
I
I
,.,.1 ~ATKA MEAN ..... ' -
Plot of measured precipitation at Atka and long-
term means at Adak.
2-45
2.4 Hydrology
2.4.1 Field Methods
A hydrological data collection program was established to
evaluate the feasibility of a hydroelectric project at Atka,
Alaska. The hydrological data collection station consisted of a
stream gauging station, staff gauge and a water level recorder.
Details of the installation a~ instrument specifications are
discussed in the following paragraphs.
A representative stream cross-section, meeting specific require-
ments, was selected for stream gauging to determine typical
channel configuration and geometry. Selection criteria for the
stream channel included: selecting a straight reach perpen-
dicular to flow with minimal bank migration, uniform flow, and
few channel bed obstructions. A stable channel bed was required
to accurately develop a stage/discharge rating curve. The
selected reach was surveyed by placing a temporary bench mark
(TBM) on the left bank looking downstream (D.S.) and obtaining
the change in relief and distance to top of bank and left edge
of water (LEW). The channel bed profile was obtained by sound-
ing the partial flow areas during the discharge measurements.
Distance to right edge of water (REW) was then calculated. A
TBM was placed on the right bank and the change in relief and
distance to this TBM obtained. Elevations of the slopes were
surveyed to the highest point of possible inundation or high
water mark.
A staff gauge consisting of two-inch steel pipe was driven into
the bed of the channel as close to the thalweg as possible and
anchored to the left bank using two eight-foot lengths of 2" X
2" lumber attached to rebar for support. Graduated enamel-
plated staff gauges were clamped vertically to the steel pipe
2-46
and served as the stage reference point for the development of a
stage/discharge rating curve.
After the completion of the cross-sectional survey, a tag line
consisting of 1/8" steel cable was drawn across the stream and
anchored to both banks using rebar supports. The tag line was
set perpendicular to flow and serves as a station positioning
indicator for stream gauging. Temporary flagging was tied to
the tag line at 15 locations and the stream was gauged from
these stations. Upon verification that no vertical section
contained more than 10 percent of the total flow, the temporary
flagging was replaced with permanent markers at the 15 partial
vertical gauging stations.
A water level recorder was installed adjacent to the stream on
the left bank according to specifications as shown on Figure
2-19. A hole was dug approximately 3.5 feet deep where bedrock
was encountered. The bedrock hindered setting the culvert pipe
deep enough so the intake pipe would be submerged to a suffi-
cient depth below the water surface at times of low flow. How-
ever, this was the optimum location in terms of all requirements
for the installation, and depth of bedrock was a problem at all
possible installation sites. The depth at which the intake pipe
was placed made the water level recorder inoperative at a stage
of 1.74 feet or lower. However, discharge at this stage would
be less than 10 cubic feet/second.
The recording device works as follows. A spring wound clock
drives a pen across a seven-day chart giving continuous stage
recordings by means of a float and counter balance weight sus-
pended over a pulley and lowered into the culvert pipe (See
specifications on following pages). With the development of a
rating curve, discharge can be determined from the water level
recorder charts showing continuous stage readings.
2-47
STEVENS H2 0
LEVEL RECORDER
METAL PLATE
4.5'
3.5'
WOODEN CABINET
IRON WELDED TO C.M.P
1------12" CORRUGATED METAL PIPE
FLOAT AND COUNTER
BALANCE WEIGHT
~ .l.-.:-i=r==~'-'V~'lIJ~&/!.., J,.....-
~ '-------THALWEG
WELDED TO C.M.P INTAKE PIPE
Figure 2-19. Configuration of the water level recorder
installation.
,.,' 2-48
GRADE L)
Beginning with the initial data collection program on December
12, 1982, on-site stream gauging measurements were initiated.
Chuniisax Creek was subsequently gauged by NORTEC personnel on
four other occasions during reconnaissance trips to Atka,
Alaska. A local resident was instructed on the methodology of
stream gauging procedures and conducted stream gauging measure-
ments on a weekly basis throughout the duration of the data
collection program. The local resident's measurements were
reduced in the NORTEC Anchorage office and were cross-checked
with NORTEC's hydrologist's measurements for accuracy.
Standard United States Geological Survey (USGS) stream gauging
procedures were followed. Techniques for stream gauging can be
found in "Discharge Measurements at Gauging Stations", by
Buchanan and Somers (1969).
2.4.2 Channel Characteristics
The Chuniisax Creek channel is characterized by a series of
steep to near vertical gradients with short meandering reaches
with low gradients between each waterfall. Channel slope for
the entire length of the stream from lake source headwaters to
mouth is approximately 0.028 ft/ft or 1.60 degrees. However, on
the reach that was surveyed, including one waterfall reach,
channel slope was determined to have a gradient of 0.065 ft/ft
or 3.72 degrees. Channel slope for a stream having large near
vertical waterfalls must be analyzed in terms of available
"head" rather than overall stream slope.
The channel cross-section at the gauging station is provided in
Figure 2-20. In this reach the channel floodplain is relatively
narrow (approximately 60 ft). Mannings Un", a useful roughness
factor in hydraulic calculations, was estimated to be 0.039 in
the active channel and 0.034 in the overbank areas (Figure
2-21).
2-49
,t-
v
N
I
U1
0
4
2
0
~ w w 2 lL.
Z
W
-' 4 <{
u
If)
6
8
10
" l>J>
DRAWN TO SCALE: I" HORIZONTAL = 10 1
I" VERTICAL = 4 1
/> '>'". ,..--DATUM -TBM
J>..X
o
L.B.~~
STAGE 1.96 ft.
DISCHARGE 16.9 cfs ~
( 12 -12 -82) '-'--R.B.
'~ _____________ ~v~~--.
~.~ = 0------L.E.W. . R.EW.
10 20 30 40
SCALE IN FEET
50 60
Figure 2-20. Channel configuration of Chuniisax Creek (looking downstream) in the
vicinity of the gauging station.
tv
I
Ul
I-'
NT NO. f»> I~
.~ ~ f','
M.P.
/ ~ ~ ~ f',~
STREAM ATKA, AK.
r~ ~ ..,( "\."
X-SEC 1
,
V/ "/ 1/7/ ~ ~ ~" """ " ,"-
S.M. In
r~ ) i'--
ASSUME() DEPrH 0.8'
BASIC "N FIRM EARTH CONSISTENT ACROSS CHAN· FIRM EARTH NEl BED. GRAVEL, PEB·
BED . SAND wi SOME SilT BlES TO 3"-4': COARSE SAND wi SOME SilT
MATERIAL 0.025 SAND 0.035 0.025
X-SEC IJ)AEGUlARITY
SCALLOPS
OUT C'ROPS
SlUFFtING
CHANtiES IN SHAPE
VEGETATION
TREEf THICK MARITIME TUNDRA SLIGHT VEGETATION THICK MARITIME TUNDRA
BRUSH GRASSES ON BANKS
GRASSES
GRASS V2" SNOW ON GRASS 1/2 " SNOW ON GRASS
DENSITY 0.009 0.004 0.009
SEASON WINTER WINTER WINTER
ALIGNMENT
BENDS
lOOPS
OTHER
TOTALS 0.034 0.039 0.034
Figure 2-21. Determination of Manning's "n" for Chuniisax Creek.
2.4.3 Stage/Discharge Rating Curve
Respective discharge measurements, in correlation with associ-
ated stage (water level) readings were used to develop a
rating curve; whereby, estimated daily discharge could be cal-
culated from continuous readout charts on the water level
recorder.
A measurement of discharge is applicable only to those stream
conditions and flow levels existing at the time of the measure-
ments. Inasmuch as flow levels in natural streams usually
change with time, a relationship of discharge to some other
variable is desirable. In practice, the "stage" or depth of
water above a given datum at a specific stream cross-section is
used. When a sufficient number of stage readings and their
associated discharges have been measured, a stream rating curve
can be constructed. This relationship, along with a record of
the stage of the stream, can be used to estimate discharge for
those periods when the stage is not constant.
A water level recorder and staff gauge were installed on
Chuniisax Creek. Stream discharge measurements and observed
stage (water level) readings were used to develop the rating
curve. Figure 2-22 illustrates the relationship between stage
and discharge. Estimated daily discharge was obtained from
continuous stage readings on the water level recorder and deter-
mined by means of the rating curve.
On several occasions following heavy rainfall, stage readings
were observed on the water level recorder which required extra-
polation on the rating curve to estimate peak flow discharge.
The accuracy of discharge estimates from rating curve extrapola-
tions should be considered fair to the greatest extent; whereas,
discharge estimates within the measured range of the rating
curve can be considered good estimates.
2-52
1.40
RATING CURVE ... "
1.20
1.00
.....
w
W
LL.
0.8 z
w
(!) « 0.6 .....
U)
0.4
0.2
CHUNIISAX CREEK -ATKA, ALASKA
O.O~~~--L-~~--~~~~--~~~--~~~--~~~--~~~~~
4.0 8.0 12.0 16.0 20.0 24.0 28.0 32.0 36.0 40.0 44.0
DISCHARGE IN CUBIC FEET / SECOND
Figure 2-22. Rating curve for Chuniisax Creek near Atka,
Alaska.
2-53
Tabulated stream discharge data for Chuniisax Creek are provided
in Table 2-22. The watershed is characterized by a very quick
response to the effects of liquid precipitation (e.g., rain-
fall). Rainfall distributed over the watershed rapidly produces
an increasing stage, usually occurring immediately with the
commencement of rainfall. Little or no lag time between rain-
fall and runoff is noticed. Alternately, stream stage and
discharge rapidly decline following the cessation of rainfall.
Two small lakes within the watershed provide some surface water
runoff by means of snowpack runoff. The short drainage basin
retention time is characteristic of an andesite bedrock water-
shed having shallow soil profiles which, following infiltration,
direct ground water to the main channel where it surfaces to
become surface water runoff.
During periods of little or no rainfall, stream flow decreases
rapidly; however, base flow or ground-water flow into the main
channel is contributed at a slow rate (0.3 to 1.0 feet/hour) due
to the low hydraulic conductivity of the soils. This slow con-
tribution of base flow generally maintains discharge above 5
cubic feet/second. To summarize the effects of base flow on
surface water runoff, it can be stated that ground water veloci-
ties are of a low order of magnitude, but due to the shallow
depths of bedrock underlying soil horizons, ground water is
quickly directed to the main channel following infiltration.
The discharge data closely correlate to that of the u.s. Geo-
logical Survey where they estimate approximately 4.0 cubic
feet/second per square mile of watershed for the area (Balding,
1976). Mean annual peak runoff rates average approximately 25
cubic feet/second per square mile of watershed. The low month
mean runoff is probably greater than 1 cubic foot/second per
square mile. Low flow can occur during any month in which
precipitation is light.
2-54
s
Table 2-22. Stream discharge data for Chuniisax Creek near
Atka, Alaska.
Location.--Latitude 52° 12', Longitude 174 0 12', Township 92S, Range 176 W, Seward
Meridian, Approx. 0.6 miles S.\~. of Atka Village and Approx. 0.5 miles from
mouth on Left Bank Above Fourth Waterfalls.
Drainage Area.--4.0 mi.2 (15.54 Km.2 )
Period of Record.--Partial and Discontinuous Data from Dec. 12-14, 1982; No Data from
Dec. 15, 1982 -May 8, 1983; Continuous Data from May 9, 1983 -Nov.
24, 1983.
Gage.--Water-Stage Recorder. Altitude of Gage is 175 Ft. (53.4 m) from Topographic Map.
Remarks.--Records Good Except for those Determined by Extrapolation which are Fair.
Extremes for Period Record.--Maximum Discharge, 190 ft 3 /s (5.38 m3 /s) on November
DAY
-1-
2
3
4
5
6
7
8
9
10
11
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21
22
23
24
25
26
27
28
29
30
31
TOTAL
MEAN
MAX.
MIN.
CFSM
IN.
AC-FT.
22, 1983, Gage Height 3.16 ft (0.96 m) from Rating Curve
Extended Above 43 ft 3 /s (1.22 m3 /s); Minimum Discharge,
2 cfs (estimated) in late February, 1983.
DISCHARGE, IN CUBIC FEET PER SECOND, FOR PERIOD OF RECORD, MEAN VALUES
DEC
16.9*
12. 1 *
29.0
14.5
16.9
12. 1
3.6
JAN FEB MAR APR MAY
26.1*
31.0
40.0
40.0
32.8
31.5
37.0
38.4
35.6
99.0
56.0
40.0
27.6*
340.0
41.2
99.0
26.1
10.3
24.7*
22.9*
23.0
20.0
18.0
18.0
16.5
14.9
18.8
23.3
16.4
15.7
14.8
17.9
15.4
14.3
13.2
13.1
12.7
11 .9
11.3
10.9
10.7
421.5
17.6
43.1
10.7
4.4
3.9
836.0
JUL
1""0."3
9.9
9.7
1 5. 1
12.7
11.0
15.6
14.0
12.3
11.8
11.3
14.0
14.6
13.2
12.3
11.5
15.9*
33.2*
248.4
13.8
33.2
9.9
3.5
2.3
492.7
AUG
16.0
14.3
13.5
15.6
14.3
13.3
12.6
12.0
11.5
10.8
10.6
11.4
13.2
24.2
34.6
26.2
22.3
19.5
17.7
22.0
17.3
17.7
17.7
15.3
19.5
41.0
20.3
18.4
17.7
520.5
17.9
41.0
10.6
4.5
4.8
1032.4
SEP
l""6"":"7
1 5.3
14.0
12.8
12.0
11.3
11.0
10.6
9.8
9.3
9.3
9.3
8.8
7.4*
12.3
33.0
27.3
21.4
18.4
16.5
15.3
14.0
12.6
12.0
45.8
27.2*
49.3
43.0
75.0
580.7
20.0
75.0
7.4
5.0
5.4
1151.8
OCT
101 .0
59.7
40.5
31.0
45.5
25.6
24.6
30.2
24.0
22.7
36.3
38~4
39.2*
42.4
38.4
32.3
36.3
28.4
46.3*
47.5
28.4
32.8
34.6
29.0
31 .0
49.2
995.3
38.3
101 .0
22.7
9.6
9.3
1974.0
NOV
""""41.3
33.3
27.3
44.3
65.0
31.0
26.8
25.6
28.4
25.6
25.0
21.4
25.0
26.8
17.3
15.6
17.0
18.8
22.3
22.7
15.0
89.0
90.0
754.5
32.8
90.0
15.0
8.2
7.0
1496.5
In stream measurement, all others from rating curve.
2-55
2.4.4 Stream Hydrograph Data
A hydrograph is the graphical representation of the instan-
taneous rate of discharge of a stream with time. A hydrograph
includes the integrated contribution from surface water runoff,
interflow, ground-water flow and channel precipitation. The
time distribution of runoff (the shape of the hydrograph) is
influenced by climatic factors, and by the topographic and
geologic features of the basin; thus the final hydrograph is
affected by all three factors. However, it may be stated that
climatic factors predominate in producing the rising limb, while
the recession limb is largely independent of the storm
characteristics producing the runoff.
The geological factors, which affect the shape of the runoff
hydrograph, are primarily those which govern the flow of ground
water and inter flow to a stream. For example, an impervious
formation (andesite bedrock) or layer close to the surface would
effect the amount of interflow (flow through the surface soil
layers), hence the resulting hydrograph. The hydraulic
conductivity of the surface layers affects the infiltration to
lower levels, and thus determines the ground water and inter flow
contributions to runoff. It should be mentioned that subsurface
formations can make the ground-water drainage area to a stream
much larger or much smaller than the surface drainage area.
That is, the phreatic divide need not correspond, and in many
cases does not conform to the topographic divide; hence a stream
may show a proportionately high or low ground-water contribution
depending on the subsurface formations. It is also possible
that the ground-water table is normally at such a level that the
stream continually supplies water (influent stream) to
subsurface aquifers. The stream may also be effluent, receiving
2-56
a continuous supply of ground water; or influent at high stages
and effluent at low stages.
Tabulated mean daily discharge data are useful for making hydro-
logical interpretations involving single events, whereas hydro-
graphs illustrate monthly and seasonal trends and variations for
the selected watershed. Figures 2-23, 2-24 and 2-25 exemplify
mean, maximum and minimum monthly discharge rates for Chuniisax
Creek. The minimum monthly discharge rate is of importance;
however, ultimately the major concern will be to identify the
times and durations when discharge falls below the design gener-
ation power levels.
2.4.5 River Icing Observations
River icing observations were made on several occasions during
the data collection program. Most of· the observations were
made during the second reconnaissance trip to Atka during the
month of December, 1982. During the first trip to Atka in mid-
November, 1982, no ice was observed on Chuniisax Creek. On the
second trip to Atka during mid-December, 1982, ice had started
to form and observations are as follows:
December la, 1982 -Anchor ice was observed approximately 2.0
inches thick along the banks in areas of slow water or eddies.
The anchor ice extended 2 to 3.5 feet from the banks in these
areas. The channel was open in all other reaches having occa-
sional ice flows. The water contained considerable amounts of
frazil ice suspended in the water with some ice adhering to the
channel bed in rocky areas.
December 11, 1982 -The stream was completely frozen over in
many reaches with 1 to 3 inches of ice. Anchor ice had develop-
ed in most other reaches, and was covered wi th 1 to 2 inches of
snow.
2-57
45.-.-----.----r----.---_.----~--_.----~--~----,_--_,----~_,
40 I
I
I
35 I
I
30 I
I
I on I -(.) 25
w I
(!) I a::
<I: I J: 20 u
(/) I -0 I
15 I , I
\ I
\ I
10 \ I , / , /
5 ',,/ MEASURED
---ESTIMATED
0 DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV _I
19821· 1983
Figure 2-23. Mean monthly discharge for Chuniisax Creek
near Atka, Alaska.
2-58
CII -u
w
C)
a::
<t
:I:
U
(f) -0
'i
200
180
160
140
I
I 120 I
I
100 I
I
80 I
I
60 I
I
40 I
J
/
20 / MEASURED --,,'
- - -ESTIMATED ----, "
o~~--~----~--~----~--~----~--~--~----~--~----~~
DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL AUG SEP OCT NOV
1982 1-o1·~----------1983 ----------~ .. I
Figure 2-24. Maximum instantaneous discharge for Chuniisax
Creek near Atka, Alaska.
2-59
-III -<.J
W
(!)
Q::
<t
I
U
(/)
0
40
35
30
25
20
15
10
5 ",
--~ ., " -" "..,-"
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
I
,,1
MEASURED
- - -ESTIMATED
o L-~ __ -L __ ~ ____ ~ __ -L __ ~ ____ L-__ ~ __ ~ __ ~~ __ ~ __ ~~
DEC JAN FEB MAR APR MAY JUN JUL
1982 1-o1=4t---------------------1983 ------------------------i
Figure 2-25. Minimum instantaneous discharge for Chuniisax
Creek near Atka, Alaska.
(,:; 2-60
December 14, 1982 -The stream was completely frozen over in
many reaches with 1 to 3 inches of ice. Ice development was
progressing with water freezing around exposed bedrock surfaces
at all waterfalls.
Chuniisax Creek did, in fact, completely freeze over with river
ice on all reaches during the following months of January and
February, 1983. Deep drifting snow prevented access to the
stream by the local resident during much of this period. The
river ice also made the water level recorder inoperative during
this time. Stream flow under the river ice cover could not be
determined within the scope of the work; however, discharge was
believed to approach zero as little or no water was observed at
the waterfalls during the latter part of February. Pools of
fresh water probably remained unfrozen in deeper reaches along
Chuniisax Creek. The complete river ice cover and deep drifting
snow were thought to be an uncommon occurrence by the local
residents.
2.4.6 Discussion of Results
Hydrological data analyses for proposed projects are most
efficiently made with long-term continuous data collection
programs. This particular site specific hydrological investiga-
tion was deemed necessary to provide some baseline data from
which to make an appropriate decision related to the hydrolo-
gical feasibility of the project. One year of data collection
answers many questions pertaining to stream flow and its
associated parameters; however, a single year of hydrological
data cannot be viewed as normal or average conditions for the
watershed of interest. The discharge data correlate very well
with u.s. Geological Survey water resources data for the
Aleutian Islands. Therefore, extreme variations from the data
presented are not anticipated.
2-61
\
An attempt was made to find a statistical correlation between
discharge and rainfall durations and intensities; whereby, mean
daily discharge could be reasonably estimated using a regression
analysis between discharge and precipitation. The purpose of
such an attempt was to provide stream flow data for periods of
no record.
Exponential, logarithmic, power and linear regression analyses
curves were developed using measured precipitation and discharge
data. None of the curves however, produced a coefficient or
determination which could be used with any confidence or
accuracy to estimate stream discharge. Many variables,
including unknown ground-water parameters, prevented correlating
discharge and precipitation. Therefore, mean daily discharge
estimates were not made without a known stage which could be
used with the rating curve.
Attempts to find other correlations such as discharge and
drainage area were researched, but lack of data for the Aleutian
Islands prevented the development of statistical plots to
estimate discharge or provide confidence intervals.
An important point to be made is that minimum discharge can
occur in any month that precipitation is light. Alternately,
in any winter month in which temperatures remain below 32.0op
for extended periods, solid forms of precipitation can remain in
storage and, consequently, substantially decrease discharge
for that period.
Discharge data for Chuniisax Creek do show diurnal, monthly and
seasonal variations, with discharge quickly responding to
rainfall durations and intensities. The water level recorder
readily illustrates the instantaneous response seen with the
commencement and cessation of rainfall. The fact that a minimum
2-62
measured discharge of 7.4 cubic feet per second and a maximum
discharge of 184.0 cubic feet per second, occurred on September
14th and the 30th, respectively, exemplifies the substantial
impact of precipitation variability on the stream hydrograph.
Following a high discharge of 184.0 cubic feet per second on
September 30, 1983 discharge had receded to 31.0 cubic feet per
second (even with additional rainfall) within four days.
Similarly, on several occasions, discharge was observed to
decline 50 percent within a 24-hour period, thus illustrating
the low drainage basin retention time. Having determined that
maximum and minimum discharge rates can occur within any month,
the prediction of stream discharge with high confidence
intervals becomes exceedingly difficult.
The lowest in-stream discharge measurement of 7.4 cubic feet per
second, does not constitute the lowest annual low flow for
Chuniisax Creek. This was merely the lowest flow measured
during open water with no river ice cover. Annual low flows
generally occur in June or throughout the summer months into
September, as noted. However, during winters having extensive
river ice cover, low flow probably approaches 4 cubic feet per
second, and as previously noted, may approach 0.0 cubic feet per
second for short durations.
Discharge and precipitation data for the month of May were
perhaps the most outstanding in terms of deviation from normal
conditions. A mean monthly discharge of 34.0 cubic feet per
second was a result of extensive snowpack runoff and nearly
three times as much precipitation as normal. Atmospheric
conditions were generally near normal except for the months of
July through October which all received above average rainfall.
2-63
Stream discharge in Chuniisax Creek will be the limiting factor
in terms of the available durations in which the stream will
meet and maintain design power generation levels for the
hydroelectric facility. The existing turbine operates at its
most efficient level with 10 cubic feet per second stream flow
and 103 feet of head, generating 50 K\'l with these parameters.
Various penstock alignments will achieve the 103 foot design
head; however, stream discharge is considerably more variable,
falling below 10 cubic feet per second during various times of
the year. Although Chuniisax Creek follows monthly and seasonal
variations in discharge, it has been observed flowing below 10
cubic feet per second for short durations during months when the
estimated mean monthly discharge is well in excess of design
power generation levels.
An important point when considering the discharge data is that
in many months, although the mean monthly discharge exceeded 10
cubic feet per second, daily discharge fell below 10 cubic feet
per second on several occasions. Since there will be no
storage other than a small diversion impoundment to regulate
flow, on days when discharge falls below 10 cubic feet per
second the turbine system will produce less than the 50 KW
design level. On these days, diesel generation will have to
prov ide the additional demand. An integrated power system could
be put into operation which would provide diesel backup whenever
the stream discharge falls below the 10 cubic feet per second
level.
Daily and monthly discharge data (as shown in Table 2-22) for
the period of record, illustrate that the minimum design power
generation level of 10 cubic feet per second can be maintained
approximately eight months throughout the year (April through
December); however, within these eight months there were at
least 8 days in which mean daily discharge fell below the design
power generation level. Inasmuch as mean monthly discharge may
2-64
well exceed the minimum design power generation level, it should
be noted that within these months, minimum daily discharge
frequently fell below the minimum.
Albeit no stage measurements could be made from mid-December
through mid-March due to river ice cover, field observations
concluded that discharge fell below 10 cubic feet per second for
most of this period. The month of May had unusually high
discharge rates, produced from extensive snow pack runoff at
higher elevations. The month of June is generally the driest
month of the year and can be considered the fourth month
throughout the year when discharge is expected to remain below
10 cubic feet per second for most of the month. The mean
monthly discharge rate for June was slightly higher than
expected due to high discharge rates in the first part of the
month which were a continuation of snow pack runoff following
high flows in Hay. The month of July is considered a marginal
month in terms of available discharge with approximately one
third of the days falling below 10 cubic feet per second during
some time of the day. All other months bring substantial
rainfall to meet design power generation levels with only short
durations when discharge falls below 10 cubic feet per second.
2-65
3.0 BIOLOGICAL ENVIRONMENT
3.1 General
The purpose of this chapter is to describe the terrestrial and
aquatic environments of the Chuniisax Creek area located on the
southeast side of Atka Island near the village of Atka. Data
contained herein are based primarily on results of surveys of
areas as indicated in Figure 3-1.
3.2 Terrestrial Environment
3.2.1 Soils
The soils of Atka Island as they relate to the biological
environment are classified as histosols. These soils develop in
an environment where the soils remain saturated throughout the
year and are characterized by their high organic content (Brady,
1974).
The most detailed study of soils for the central Aleutian
Islands was conducted by Everett (1971) on Amchitka Island.
Soils on Amchitka Island are similar to those on other Aleutian
Islands. Everett (1971) identified four organic soil types
based upon differences in the relative proportions of peat,
field moisture and bulk density. Soils are arranged toposequen-
tially from thick, raw fibrous peat in low, very poorly drained
areas to thinner sequences of very highly decomposed organic
material on better drained steep slopes and near crest posi-
tions. A summary of the four organic soil types with associated
vegetation, topography and drainage are presented in Table 3-1.
3-1
~~.
#;'
4.
-~~
''''~ ~. '\',a"
NOT E IND ICATE SURVEY
UMBERS SHOWN N FI SHER I ES. ~EE SECTION 0
~~~~~~~~~S:U:R~V/EEY AREA THE CHUN II SAX
AREAS;
TECHN I CAL SERV ICES NORTHERRrN~~~ __ ~::~~~_ I
-FIGURE 3.1 I . r 1\ = 250 SCALE·
w
I w
Table 3-1. Description of histosols for Amchitka Island (Everett, 1971).
TYPE OF SOILa
Cyril Soil
Lake Soil
VEGETATION
Sedge, heath and
mosses -including
some sphagnum
Mostly heath, lichen,
scattered sedges
Constantine Soil Heath, grasses
TOPOGRAPHY
Found in old lake beds,
slight depressions in
broad valley floors where
ponding is frequent
Covers large areas of
relatively poorly
drained uplands
Slopes usually 30°
or more (mid-slope)
Ivakin Soil Heath, lichens, Slopes between 2° and 15°
grasses (Calamagrostis
nutkaensis), mosses
(Rhacomitrium
lanuginosum)
DRAINAGE
Poor to very
poor, periodic
standing water
Poorly drained
Poorly to mod-
erately well-
drained
Moderately
well-drained
aSoils are arranged along a sequence from the least decomposed, highest organic
matter content, and highest moisture in Cyril soils to the most highly decomposed,
lowest organic matter content in Ivakin soils.
In the Chuniisax drainage, Constantine and Ivakin soil types
dominate the river mouth and proposed damsite since this area is
mainly characterized by well-drained steep slopes and rounded
hilltops. The large sedge marsh region to be inundated by the
reservoir is likely underlain by Cyril soils.
In general, the upper part of the watershed has a higher propor-
tion of Cyril and Lake soil types. The topography of the upper
part of the watershed consists of both broad valley floors with
frequent ponding and relatively poorly drained uplands, indica-
ting regions in which both of these soil types occur.
3.2.2 Vegetation
The ecosystems of the Aleutian Islands have been described as
belonging to a terrestrial maritime tundra (Shear, 1964). The
Aleutian Islands support a vegetation composed predominantly of
Pacific coastal species. The combined effect of climate and a
surficial material made chiefly of volcanic ash has retarded
tree and other plant growth on the islands (Hein, 1976). The
climate is characterized by a short growing season and low
average summer temperatures. Atka Island, part of the Andreanof
Islands of the central Aleutians, lacks many of the arctic
montane circumpolar plants that are present in both the eastern
and western islands of the chain. Dwarf willows, herbaceous
plants, graminoids and mosses dominate Atka's vegetation.
Vegetation Communities of the Project Area
The following descriptions of the vegetation communities for
the Chuniisax watershed are based on the vegetation
classification scheme developed by Viereck and Dyrness (1980).
The names of communities correspond to Viereck's and Dyrness'
Level IV classes. Below each community type listed is a
generalized description of species usually found within the
3-4
community. Locations of specific communities are mapped in
Figure 3-2.
Herbaceous vegetation -Tall Grass
Bluejoint Meadow -This community occurs throughout the study
area on gentle to moderate, well-drained slopes. The most
common grasses are Calamaqrostis canadensis var. Langsdorffii or
C. nutkaensis. These were practically pure grass stands with
occasional club mosses.
Bluejoint-Mixed Herbs -This very variable community occurs
throughout the study area on gentle to moderate slopes. While
the two bluejoint grass species make up the majority of the
plant cover, they may grow with a wide variety of herbaceous
species such as geranium, dwarf cornel, orchids, cow parsnip,
willow herbs and lupines. Other grasses which are often present
in these communities include Deschampsia beringensis, Festuca
rubra and Calamagrostis lapponica.
Mixed Herbs -This class has been described by Viereck and
Dyrness (1980) as occurring on mesic slopes and streambanks. It
was recognized along lower parts of the stream valley and found
to be composed of Fritillaria camschatcensis (chocolate lily),
Aconitum maximum (monkshood) and Angelica lucida. Often, stands
of vegetation predominantly made up of ferns are found along
steep streambanks and ravines. The dominant species is usually
lady fern (Athyrium ~ilix-femina), accompanied by other herbs
such as twisted stalk (Streptopus amplexifolius) and monkshood.
Cow Parsnip -This community is dominated by Heracleum lanatum
(cow parsnip) frequently growing with Angelica lucida and
Athyrium filix-femina. It is reported to be found in moist to
wet areas, often along drainages of small streams and was
frequently seen in the lower portions of the watershed.
3-5
W
I
m
ARBITRARY STREAM ~
CORRIOOR BOUNOARY---\
o 600 1.000
~
.cal. in teet
o SEOGE MARSH
-LEGEND -
o HALOPHYTIC SEOGE ~ INLANO SHORE ELYMUS
[S;I COASTAL EL YMUS -HERB
~ MIXEO ELYMUS ANO TALL GRASS
11m CROWBERRY TUNORA
o
/
/
o _ 00 0 0 ..
o /}o<>, 0 () ?Jo <:>
• f7 00 () Q' a
Q
a
Atka
o BLUEJOINT MIXEO HERB MEAOOW
[TI AQUATIC VEGETATION
Figure 3-2. vegetation communities along the Chuniisax stream corridor.
Coastal Elymus-Herb -These communities are found on beaches
and river deltas. They continue along riverbanks eventually
grading into more inland grass communities. Elymus arenarius
(lyme grass) is most frequently observed growing with Claytonia
sibirica and Senecio pseudoarnica (groundsel).
An additional community type not described in Viereck and
Dyrness but recognized on Atka Island is Coastal Elymus -Mixed
Tall Grass. This community is found in the vicinity of the
stream delta and stream banks. The tall grasses are generally
composed of Elymus spp., Calamagrostis canadensis, Deschampsia
beringensis, Festuca altaica, Bromus sitchensis and Hordeum
brachyantherum.
Inland Shore Elymus -This community occurs on lake beach
ridges of larger lakes in the watershed. Lyme grass is some-
times mixed with herbs such as monkshood in these habitats.
Herbaceous Vegetation -Mesic Midgrass
Midgrass Herb -This community occupies a variety of sites,
from alpine meadows to streambanks. Festuca altaica grows near
the mouth of the survey stream with herbs such as cow parsnip
and other tall grasses.
Herbaceous Vegetation -Sedge Grass -wet Sedge Grass
Sedge Marsh -These are wet areas which occur in depressions
or flat, poorly drained areas. Some small sedge marshes are
found above Chuniisax Creek in flat areas which collect drainage
from the slopes around them. In other areas, large sedge
marshes occur in old lake beds. Large sedge marshes are more
common in the poorly drained uplands of the watershed.
Species are variable in this community type. One or several
species of Carex may be present in a particular marsh.
3-7
Sometimes an entire sedge marsh may be made up of one of two
cottongrass species: Eriophorum russeolum or E. scheuchzeri.
Sedges and associated herbs which are present in a marsh seem to
vary according to moisture. Carex saxatilis and Plantago macro-
carpa grow in areas of standing water while other sedges such as
C. pluriflora and rushes (Juncaceae) grow in moist terrain.
Herb Marsh -This community covers narrow areas along small
rivulets in the lower watershed and larger areas in poorly
drained regions of the upper watershed. Species which comprise
this community include Caltha palustris (marsh marigold),
Angelica lucida, and Platanthera spp. (bog orchis).
Herbaceous Vegetation -Saline Sedge Grass
Halophytic Sedge -Dense stands of Carex lyngbyaei were found
along protected portions of the shoreline of the Chuniisax
estuary.
Halophytic Herbs -Herb communities comprised of seabeach sand-
wort (Honckenya peploides), scurvy grass (Cochlearia offici-
nalis), and bedstraw (Galium aparine) grow along the peninsula
bordering thp. Chuniisax delta. These plants grow in fairly ex-
posed locations.
Herbaceous Vegetation -Mesic Sedge Grass
Sedge Grass -Communities consisting of a sedge grass mixture of
Carex macrochaeta and Calamagrostis nutkaensis are found with-
in small hollows between hillsides of predominantly bluejoint
vegetation. Communities of Carex macrochaeta and Deschampsia
beringensis with herbs such as fleabane and bog orchis were
found to grow on low lying, flat river terraces.
3-8
Aquatic Vegetation -Freshwater
Floating and Submerged Vegetation -The two aquatic species
Ranunculus trichophyllus (white water crowfoot) and Hippuris
vulgaris (mares tail), grow in slow flowing portions of
Chuniisax Creek and in lake and pond margins.
Tundra -Alpine Herbaceous Tundra
Alpine Herbs -This vegetation type begins to appear in ex-
posed areas over 200 m in the alpine regions of Chuniisax
watershed and refers to a sparse vegetation on talus and block-
fields. Some of the fellfield species include Geum rossii,
Silene acaulis (moss campion), and Oxyria digyna (mountain
sorrel).
Tundra -Shrub Tundra
Crowberry Tundra -The heath community occurs throughout the
study area wherever small knolls or hilltops are present. In
this variable community, crowberry (Empetrum niqrum), may be
present alone or with any combination of other heaths such as
blueberry (Vaccinium uliginosum) or lingonberry (Vaccinium
vitis-idaea). Willows (Salix spp.) may make up a large portion
of the cover. Other herbs, such as arnica and bellflower
(Campanula sp.) are included in this community.
Veqetative Description of Chuniisax Watershed
The following paragraphs describe habitats encountered in the
Chuniisax watershed beginning at the seashore and proceeding in-
land.
The Nazan Bay shoreline contains both low sandy beaches and
steep rock cliffs with boulders at the base. In the crevices of
these boulders are the most salt tolerant species such as
Honckenya peploides (seabeach sandwort), Sagina crassicaulis
3-9
(seashore pearlwort), Plantago maritima, Puccinellia nutkaensis
and Potentilla villosa. Under steep rock cliffs grow ferns such
as Polypodium vulgare. Stands of lyme grass mixed with herbs
such as Heracleum lanatum (cow parsnip), Claytonia sibirica, and
Senecio pseudoarnica (groundsel) grow on flat sand beaches and
dune areas.
The vegetation along more exposed shorelines of the Chuniisax
Delta is composed mainly of Elymus-herb community species. Most
of the peninsula cover bordering the stream delta is of this
type. As the delta narrows and more sheltered habitats become
present, patches of pure dense stands of a halophytic sedge
(Carex lynqbyaei) become interspersed with the Elymus-herb com-
munity.
The stream flows around a small island at its mouth. The ocean
side of the island is covered by a dense stand of lyme grass
which is replaced on the inland side by a stand of predominantly
mixed tall grasses~ Calamagrostis canadensis, Deschampsia berin-
gensis, Festuca altaica, Bromus sitchensis and Hordeum brachyan-
therum with some sedges such as C. macrochaeta and C. pluri-
flora. Rushes (Juncus castaneus) grow in depressions in the
middle of the island.
The mixed tall grass community described above for the island
also occurs on almost every flat terrace above the stream. In
addition to the grasses mentioned above, there are willow herbs
(Epilobium sp.), monkshood and some wood rushes (Luzula
multiflora).
At approximately the location of the first falls, flat ledges
disappear and the banks become more sloping. The mixed tall
grass community then grades into the bluejoint mixed-herb meadow
community. Characteristic plants include Calamagrostis
nutkaensis, geranium, dandelion and lousewort.
3-10
The topography on either side of the stream in this portion of
the watershed consists of small knolls or plateaus with
sheltered valleys or hollows between them. This topography is
characterized by a mosaic of heath and meadow communities.
Heaths are found on all exposed places, while the meadows occur
in the sheltered hollows between the small hills (Hulten, 1960).
Hulten explains the vegetation pattern in the following way, "If
an imaginary plane ran parallel to the general topographical
curves of the land so that it cut off the protruding parts above
and left small hollows below, this would be the boundary line
between heath and meadow." Hulten refers to this plane as the
wind plane. He attributes the vegetational differences to the
snow cover, which is swept away in exposed places and
accumulates in unexposed places. Because the photograph of the
stream (Figure 3-1) used in this report was taken in winter, it
clearly delineates the wind plane in this region and thus
defines the heath/meadow mosaic. Heath areas appear black
(snow-free) and meadows appear white (snow covered).
The heath or crowberry tundra community is quite variable in the
Chuniisax watershed. In some areas, crowberry is the Only heath
species present while in others crowberry is mixed with other
heath plants su'ch as bl ueberry and 1 ingonberry. Other plants
which may make up the crowberry tundra include Lycopodium spp.,
Carex macrochaeta, Carex pluriflora, Erigeron peregrinus,
Anemone narcissiflora and the lichen, Cladonia spp. (Bank, 1951;
Everett, 1971; Byrd and vloolington, 1977). Willows (Salix sp.)
are often very common in the crowberry tundra. During late
summer, the large yellow blossoms of Arnica unalaschcensis are
very conspicuous.
The dominant grass of the bluejoint meadows is sometimes
Calamagrostis canadensis var. Langsdorffii and sometimes C.
nutkaensis. Bank (1951) describes the herbaceous components of
these meadows as being composed of invaders from the heaths
3-11
above such as lupines and anemones and invaders from the wet
habitats below such as fleabane, bog orchis and chocolate lily.
Some of the more specialized habitats within the heath/meadow
mosaic include very steep ravine banks where tall patches of
lady ferns (Athyrium filix-femina), twisted stalk (Streptopus
amplexifolius) and monkshood (Aconitum maximum) grow.
The wettest of these specialized habitats are boglike areas
located in the sides of hills. These seepage slopes are
essentially oozing underground drainages from the hills above
(Bank, 1951). These areas are dominated by mosses with willow
herbs (Epilobium sp.), yellow monkey flowers (Mimulus guttatus),
speedwell (Veronica americana) and horsetails (Equistum spp.).
Dense stands of marsh marigold (Caltha palustris) may conceal
flowing surface water.
Some wet patches are located in depressions which collect
drainage from the meadow slopes above them. Carex saxatilis,
often with Plantago macrocarpa, grows in areas of standing
water. Areas surrounding these very wet depressions are covered
by cotton grass (Eriophorum sp.), rushes, horsetail and
orchids (Platanthera sp.). Small crowns of the marsh fern
(Thelypteris limbosperma) are located in slight drained depres-
sions which occur downslope.
Vegetation of Proposed Damsite
The topography of the area immediately surrounding the
streambed does not vary greatly up to the area of the proposed
damsite which also lies within the heath/meadow mosaic. At the
damsite, the stream flows through a notch between two rock
bluffs approximately six meters high. Crowberry and other heath
plants such as Rhododendron camtschaticum (rhododendron),
3-12
Loiseleuria procumbens (alpine azale~), Cassiope lycopodioides
and Phyllodoce aleutica (mountain heather) cover the tops of the
bluffs and extend down over some of the rock ledges. Growing in
the rock crevices and closer to the spray of the stream, the
vascular plant species include fragile ferns (Cystopteris
fragilis), false asphodel (Tofieldia coccinea), hemlock parsley
(Conioselinum chinense), pussy toe (Antennaria dioica), and
primrose (Primula cuneifolia).
Vegetation of Inundation Area
The vegetation community is predominantly bluejoint meadow
along the sloping banks which are immediately upstream from the
damsite. The stream valley then broadens and the inundation
area consists of low-lying regions generally covered by mixed
sedge and grass, Carex macrochaeta and Deschampsia beringensis.
Small wet depressions hold Juncus sp. and Carex aquatilis.
Because the stream's west bank remains fairly flat, potential
inundation here may include the large lake west of the stream.
Bluejoint mixed-herb meadow surrounds most of the lake although
dense stands of inland shore Elymus grow on some lakeshore
ridges. Stands of mixed herbs such as ladyfern and monkshood
are located in protected draws.
Growing submerged in the lake are mats of white water crowfoot
(Ranunculus trichophyllus) and mare's tail (Hippuris vulgaris).
The lakeshore is gentle and gravelly. Plants commonly found are
Equisetum sp. (horsetail), Carex aquatilis (water sedge), Juncus
sp., Sibbaldia procumbens and Rumex fenestratus (dock).
The major area to be impounded by the reservoir is a large,
flat, marshy area about 250 by 200 m. It is believed that this
area will be inundated by no more than one meter of water as a
3-13
result of the dam. The vegetation of this region is wet sedge
marsh dominated by cotton grass (Eriophorum russeolum).
Horsetail, cow parsnip and another sedge, Carex lyngbyaei are
also present in small proportions.
Upstream from the impound regions, the stream meanders through a
broad valley of usually poor drainage and frequent ponding. The
plant communities here are composed of sedge marshes and herb
marshes. Frequent patches of sphagnum moss are also present.
The better drained hillsides continue to be vegetated by the
heath/meadow mosaic.
The source of Chuniisax Creek is at the outlet of a large lake
at approximately 180 m elevation. The hillsides above the lake
are mostly vegetated by crowberry tundra which becomes mixed
with alpine herbaceous tundra in exposed areas above 250 m.
Some of the common alpine species include willow (Salix
rotundifolia), Geum rossii, hawkweed (Hieracium triste), moss
campion (Silene acaulis) and mountain sorrel (Oxyria dygina).
Species with Threatened or Endangered Status in the
Watershed
There exist some plant taxa which are endemic only to the
middle and western Aleutian Islands (Murray, 1980; Hulten,
1960). A small shield fern, Polystichum ~leuticum, has been
recommended for endangered species status (Murray, 1980) since
it was known from just its type locality on Atka Island, and
only recently from neighboring Adak Island. This fern was
reported to be growing on Adak at an altitude of about 213-244 m
under a northfacing rock outcrop in a "rock seepage" area
(Amundson, personal communication). Several ferns possessing
some of the characteristics of P. aleuticum were found within
the Chuniisax watershed at the base of some rock outcrops at
3-14
about 91-122 m elevation. One found was collected and it is
possible that this specimen is the Aleutian shield fern; how-
ever, positive identification could not be verified by Murray
and at this time, the specimen is being sent to other experts.
The plant was collected near a small lake which is located at
least 0.8 km from any sites associated with potential project
features. These sites were carefully examined for the occur-
rence of this fern although these areas did not contain "rock
seepage" habitat and it is highly unlikely that the plant would
be growing along a stream bed (Amundson, personal communica-
tion).
Because botanical studies have been so infrequent in the
Aleutian Islands, there exist certain taxa from remote habitats
whose numbers and distribution are not well understood and whose
status is therefore undetermined. Included in this category is
the Aleut Saxafrage, Saxafraga aleutica. This plant occurs
rarely on the high peaks of the western and middle Aleutians
(Hulten, 1960). If this plant were not found to occur in any
additional areas, Murray (1980) would consider threatened status
for this plant. A single population of about 80 individuals was
observed in blossom in the alpine zone (310 meters) of the
Chuniisax watershed. Although a few diminutive individuals were
seen in other portions of the watershed during the survey, no
further large patches were located. The occurrence of Saxafraga
aleutica was found at least 5 km upstream from any proposed
project features.
A third notable species seen during the survey was Cerastium
aleuticum, Aleutian Mouse-ear Chickweed. Although the range of
this species is limited to mountain slopes of the Aleutian
Islands, its occurrence has been found to be more common than
previously thought and the species has been withdrawn from
threatened or endangered status (Murray, 1980). This plant was
found to occur frequently on the alpine slopes of the Chuniisax
watershed.
3-15
Species List
Vascular plant species identified during the survey have been
summarized in Table 3-2, according to the nomenclature and
arrangement of Hulten (1968). Species identified from other
parts of Atka Island but not Chuniisax watershed are indicated
by an asterisk.
Identified during the reconnaissance visit to Atka from
September 2 through September 17, 1982, were 161 vascular plant
species belonging to a total of 41 families. Of the species
identified, a total of six were not found in the Chuniisax
watershed. Most of these species have been introduced and grow
near the village or along World War II ruins.
Certain plant genera and species have likely been overlooked
during the course of this survey because field work was con-
ducted late in the growing season. Many plants could not be
readily identified without flowers or fruit (e.g., genera of
orchids and members of the lily family).
3.2.3 Terrestrial Mammals
Almost all terrestrial mammals on Atka Island have been intro-
duced by man. Reindeer (Rangifer tarandus)were introduced to
Atka Island in 1913 and 1914 to provide a subsistence food
source for the Atkans. In the early 1970's there were reported
to be between 2,500 and 3,500 reindeer on the island (Byrd and
Trapp, 1973).
The Arctic fox (Alopex lagopus) has been introduced on 77
islands in the Aleutian Archipelago (Trapp, personal communica-
tion). Fox trapping was important to Atkans before new policies
governing refuge fox-farming permits were adopted in 1937.
3-16
Table 3-2. A listing of vascular plant species identified from
Atka Island arranged according to families following the
nomenclature and arrangement in Hulten (1968).
SPECIES
Lycopodiaceae -Club Moss Family
Lycopodium alpinum L.
L. annotinum L.
L. clavatum L.
L. sabinaefolium Willd.
L. selago L.
Equisetaceae -Horsetail Family
Equisteum arvense L.
E. variegatum Schleich.
Thelypteridaceae -Marsh Fern Family
Thelypteris limbosperma (All.) Fuchs
Athyriaceae -Lady Fern Family
Athyrium filix-femina (L.) Roth
Cystopteris fragilis (L.) Bernh.
Aspidiaceae -Shield Fern Family
Polystichum aleuticum Christens.
Dryopteris dilatata (Hoffm.) Gray
Gymnocarpium dryopteris (L.) Newm.
3-17
COHMON NAME
Alpine Club Moss
Stiff Club Moss
Common Club iwtoss
Fir Club Hoss
Lady Fern
Fragile Fern
Table 3-2. A listing of vascular plant species identified from a
Atka Island arranged according to families following the
nomenclature and arrangement in Hulten (196B) (Cont'd).
SPECIES
Polypodiaceae -Licorice Fern Family
Polypodium vulqare L.
Pinaceae -Pine Family
*Picea sitchensis (Bong.) Carr.
Gramineae -Grass Family
Agrostis exarata Trin.
Agrostis borealis Hartm.
Alopecurus alpinus Sm.
Bromus sitchensis Trin.
Calamagrostis nutkaensis
(Presl) Steud.
C. canadensis (Michx.) Beauv.
~ Langsdorffii (Link) Hult.
~ lapponica (Wahlenb.) Hartm.
Deschampsia beringensis Hult.
Elymus arenarius L. subsp.
mollis (Trin.) Hult.
Festuca altaica Trin.
F. brachyphylla Schult.
F. rubra L.
Hordeum brachyantherum Nevski
3-18
COMMON NAME
Sitka Spruce
Bentgrass
Bentgrass
Alpine Foxtail
Brome Grass
Reed Bent Grass
Lyme Grass
Fescue Grass
Table 3-2. A listing of vascular plant species identified from a
Atka Island arranged according to families following the
nomenclature and arrangement in Hulten (1968) (Cont'd).
SPECIES
Phleum commutatum Gandoger var.
americanum (Fourn.) Hult.
Phleum pratense L.
Poa alpina L.
P. arctica R. Br.
P. turneri Scribn.
P. lanata Scribn. & Merr.
Puccinellia langeana (Berl.) Sorens.
~ nutkaensis (Presl) Fern. & Weath.
Trisetum spicatum (L.) Richter
Cyperaceae -Sedge Family
Carex aquatilis Wahlenb.
C. lyngbyaei Hornem.
C. macrochaeta C. A. Mey.
C. pluriflora Hult.
C. saxatilis L.
C. sp.
Eriophorum russeolum E. Fries
E. scheuchzeri Hoppe
Juncaceae -Rush Family
Juncus arcticus Willd.
J. ensifolius Wikstr.
J. castaneus Sm.
J. mertensianus Bong.
3-19
COMMON NAME
Mountain Timothy
Timothy
Cotton Grass
Table 3-2. A listing of vascular plant species identified from a
Atka Island arranged according to families following the
nomenclature and arrangement in Hulten (1968) (Cont'd).
SPECIES
Luzula multiflora (Retz.) Lej.
L. parviflora (Ehrh.) Desv.
L. wahlenbergii Rupr.
Liliaceae -Lily Family
Fritillaria camschatcensis
(L.) Ker-Gawl.
Streptopus amplexifolius (L.) DC.
Tofieldia coccinea Richards.
Iridaceae -Iris Family
Iris setosa Pall.
Orchidaceae -Orchid Family
Coeloglossum viride (L.) Hartm.
Dactylorhiza aristata (Fisch.) Soo
Listera cordata L. R. Sr.
L. convallarioides (Sw.) Nutt.
Platanthera convallariae-
folia (Fisch.) Lindl.
P. dilatata (Pursh) Lindl.
Salicaceae -Willow Family
3-20
COMMON NAME
Wood Rush
Kamchatka
Fritillary
Twisted-Stalk
False Asphodel
Wild Flag
Frog Orchis
Key Flower
Twayblade
Twayblade
Bog Orchis
Table 3-2. A listing of vascular plant species identified from a
Atka Island arranged according to families following the
nomenclature and arrangement in Hulten (1968) (Cont'd).
SPECIES
Salix arctica Pall. ssp.
(Trautv.)Skvortz.
S. cyclophylla Rydb.
S. rotundifolia Trautv.
Polygonaceae -Buckwheat Family
Oxyria digyna (L.) Hill
Polygonum viviparum (L.) S.F. Gray
Rumex fenestratus Greene
Portulacaceae -Purslane Family
Claytonia arctica Adams
C. sibirica L.
Caryophyllaceae -Pink Family
Cerastium aleuticum Hult.
C. beeringianum Cham. & Schlecht.
C. fischerianum Sere
Honckenya peploides (L.) Ehrh.
Sagina crassicaulis S. Wats.
S. intermedia Fenzl
Silene acaulis L.
Stellaria calycantha (Ledeb.) Bong.
3-21
COMMON NAME
Arctic Willow
Mountain Sorrel
Dock
Spring Beauty
Mouse-ear Chickweed
Seabeach Sand wort
Seashore Pearlwort
Moss Campion
Chickweed
Table 3-2. A listing of vascular plant species identified from
Atka Island arranged according to families following the
nomenclature and arrangement in Hulten (1968) (Cont'd).
SPECIES
Ranunculaceae -Crowfoot Family
Aconitum maximum Pall.
Anemone narcissi flora L.
subsp. villosissima (DC.) Hult.
Caltha palustris L. subsp.
asarifolia (DC.) Hult.
Coptis trifolia (L.) Salisb.
Ranunculus eschscholtzii Schlecht.
R. grandis Honda
R. occidental is Nutt.
R. reptans L.
R. trichophyllus Chaix.
Papaveraceae -Poppy Family
Papaver alaskanum Hult.
Cruciferae -Mustard Family
*Barbarea orthoceras Ledeb.
Cardamine umbellata Greene
Cochlearia officinalis L.
Saxifragaceae -Saxifrage Family
Chrysosplenium wrightii Fr. & SaVe
3-22
COMMON NAME
Monkshood
Marsh Marigold
Goldthread
Creeping Spearwort
White Water Crowfoot
Alaskan Poppy
winter Cress
Bitter Cress
Scurvy Grass
Table 3-2. A listing of vascular plant species identified from a
Atka Island arranged according to families following the
nomenclature and arrangement in Hulten (1968) (Cont'd).
SPECIES
Leptarrhena pyrolifolia
(D.Don) Ser.
Parnassia kotzebuei Cham. &
Schlecht.
Saxifraga aleutica Hult.
S. bracteata D. Don
S. rivularis L.
S. punctata ssp. pacifica L.
S. unalaschcensis Sternb.
Rosaceae -Rose Family
*Fragaria chiloensis (L.)
COMMON NAME
Leatherleaved
Saxifrage
Grass-of-Parnassus
Aleut Saxifrage
Brook Saxifrage
Cordate-Leaved
Saxifrage
Duchesne Beach Strawberry
Geum calthifolium Menzies
G. macrophyllum Willd.
~ rossii (R. Br.) Ser.
Potentilla villosa Pall.
Rubus arcticus L.
R. chamaemorus L.
Sibbaldia procumbens L.
*Sorbus sambucifolia (Cham. &
Schlecht.) Roem.
3-23
Caltha Leaf Avens
Large Leaf Avens
Nagoonberry
Cloudberry
Table 3-2. A listing of vascular plant species identified from a
Atka Island arranged according to families following the
nomenclature and arrangement in Hulten (1968) (Cont'd).
SPECIES
Leguminosae -Pea Family
Lathyrus maritimus L.
Lupinus nootkatensis Donn
*Trifolium pratense L.
*T. repens L.
Geraniaceae -Geranium Family
Geranium erianthum D.C.
Violaceae -Violet Family
Viola langsdorfii Fisch.
Onagraceae -Evening Primrose Family
Epilobium anagallidifolium Lam.
E. angustifolium L.
E. behringianum Haussk.
E. glandulosum Lehm.
E. latifolium L.
E. sp.
Halorag aceae -\vater Mil foil Family
Hippuris vulgaris
H. montana Ledeb.
3-24
COMMON NAME
Beach Pea
Lupine
Clover
Clover
Willow Herb
Fireweed
River Beauty
Mare's Tail
Table 3-2. A listing of vascular plant species identified from a
Atka Island arranged according to families following the
nomenclature and arrangement in Hulten (1968) (Cont'd).
SPECIES
Umbelliferae -Parsley Family
Angelica lucida L.
Conioselinum chinense (L.) BSP.
Heracleum lanatum Michx.
Ligusticum scoticum L.
Cornaceae -Dogwood Family
Cornus canadensis L. x suecica L.
pyrolaceae -Wintergreen Family
pyrola minor L.
Empetraceae -Crowberry Family
Empetrum nigrum L.
Ericaceae -Heath Family
Cassiope lycopodioides (Pall.) D.Don
Loiseleuria procumbens (L.) Desv.
Phyllodoce aleutica (Spreng.) Heller
Rhododendron camtschaticum Pall.
Vaccinium uliginosum L.
V. vitis-idaea L.
3-25
COMMON NAME
Hemlock Parsley
Cow Parsnip
Beach Lovage
Dwarf Cornel
Crowberry
Alpine Azalea
Mountain Heather
Kamchatka Rhododendron
Blueberry
Lingonberry
Table 3-2. A listing of vascular plant species identified from a
Atka Island arranged according to families following the
nomenclature and arrangement in Hulten (1968) (Cont'd).
SPECIES
Primulaceae -Primrose Family
Primula cuneifolia Ledeb.
Trientalis europaea L.
subsp. arctica (Fisch.) Hult.
Gentianaceae -Gentian Family
G. amarella L.
Scrophulariaceae -Figwort Family
Euphrasia mollis (Ledeb.) Wettst.
Mimulus guttatus DC.
Pedicularis chamissonis Steve
Rhinanthus minor L.
Veronica americana Schwein.
~ serpyllifolia L. ~
humifusa (Dickson) Syme
V. stelleri Pall.
Lentibulariaceae -Bladderwort Family
Pinguicula vulgaris L.
Plantaginaceae -Plantain Family
3-26
COMMON NAME
Starflower
Eyebright
Yellow Monkey Flower
Lousewort
Yellow Rattle
Brooklime
Speedwell
Butterwort
Table 3-2. A listing of vascular plant species identified from a
Atka Island arranged according to families following the
nomenclature and arrangement in Hulten (1968) (Cont'd).
SPECIES COMMON NAME
Plantago macrocarpa Cham. & Schlecht.
P. maritima L. subsp.
juncoides (Lam.) Hult.
Rubiaceae -Madder Family
Galium aparine L.
Caprifoliaceae -Honeysuckle Family
Linnaea borealis L.
Campanulaceae -Bluebell Family
Campanula chamissonis Fedorov
C. lasiocarpa Cham.
Compositae -Composite or Sunflower Family
Achillea borealis Bong.
Anaphilis margaritacea (L.) Benth. &
Hook. f.
Antennaria dioica (L.) Gaertn.
Arnica unalaschcensis Less.
Artemisia tilesii Ledeb.
Erigeron peregrinus (Pursh) Greene
Hieracium triste Willd.
3-27
Bedstraw
Twinflower
Bellflower
Yarrow
Pearly Everlasting
Pussy toe
Wormwood
Coastal Fleabane
Hawkweed
Table 3-2. A listing of vascular plant species identified from a
Atka Island arranged according to families following the
nomenclature and arrangement in Hulten (1968) (Cont'd).
SPECIES
Petasites frigidus (L.) Franch.
Senecio pseudoarnica Less.
Taraxacum sp.
T. trigonolobum Dahlstedt
COHr10N NAME
Sweet Coltsfoot
Groundsel
Dandelion
*Species identified from Atka Island, but not found in Chuniisax
watershed.
3-28
Trapping activities were ended in the Aleutians by World War II.
Since the end of the war, trapping was conducted on a major
scale only in 1947 but by that time, the market for fox pelts
had declined.
The Norway rat (Rattus norvegicus) has been accidentally intro-
duced into all of the larger human settlements. The rat has
been so abundant on Atka Island that gardens are not possible
and villagers must plant gardens on adjacent Amlia Island.
During the course of the survey, very few direct observations of
mammals were made. Probably due to the proximity of the village
to the lower part of the watershed, little fresh reindeer sign
was found. Older sign, such as jaw bones and antlers were seen
to the west of the dam site. During the reconnaissance to the
upper part of the watershed, large amounts of fresh reindeer
tracks and scat were encountered. Neither foxes nor their den
sites were observed during the study.
3.2.4 Birds
The Chuniisax Creek area provides habitat for a large number of
seabirds, waterfowl and other birds found throughout the
Aleutian Chain (Figure 3-3).
A complete list of bird species in the area is included in Table
3-4.
The birds noted in Table 3-3 within the Chuniisax area were
common sightings during the mid-September survey. Although no
birds were nesting during the survey period, an abandoned
Turners Rock Ptarmigan nest was found above and to the east of
the inundation area. The nest was likely from a population of
approximately 10 birds seen daily in the area of the dam site.
3-29
w
I
w
o
o liDO 1,000
~ oca .. In _
I.tl SHORE BIRDS
-LEGEND-
f> ~~ WATERFOWL ~ SEA BIRDS
Figure 3-3. Bird habitats of the survey area on Atka Island.
o
/
/
o
-DOO <>0;10. 0
"01 Lr U C3 C) J'-...--...-• {;I 00 () • c:;;,' 0
o
o
UPLAND BIRDS
AND PASSERINES
()
D
Atka
Table 3-3. Bird species observed within the Chuniisax Stream area.
SPECIES
Bald Eagle (mature)
Bald Eagle (immature)
Merlin
Rock Ptarmigan
Gray-Crowned Rosy Finch
Green-Winged Teal
Glaucous-Winged Gull
Cormorant sp.
Horned Puffin
Tufted Puffin
Raven
Lapland Lonspur
3-31
LOCATION
Entire stream
Entire stream
Above the inundation area
Entire stream
Entire stream
Entire stream
Stream mouth
Stream mouth
Stream mouth
Stream mouth
Entire stream
Entire stream
Table 3-4. u.s. Fish and Wildlife bird species list and species
occurrence for Atka Island, Alaska.
SPECIES
LOONS
Common Loon*
Arctic Loon
Red-throated Loon*
GREBES
Red-necked Grebe
Horned Grebe
TUBENOSES
Black-footed Albatross
Laysan Albatross
Northern Fulmar*
Sooty Shearwater
Short-tailed Shearwater
Scaled Petrel
Fork-tailed Storm Petrel*
Leach's Storm Petrel*
CORMORANTS
Pelagic Cormorant*
Red-faced Cormorant*
SWANS
\\lhooper Swan
GEESE
Canada Goose (Aleutian)*
Black Brant
Emperor Goose
DUCKS
Mallard*
Gadwall
Pintail*
Green-winged Teal* (Aleutian)
Green-winged Teal*
European Wigeon
American Wigeon
Northern Shoveler
3-32
OCCURRENCE
U-PR
U-WR
U-PR
R-SR, U-vlR
U-WR
[U-SR, R-vlR]
[U-SR, R-\~R]
C-SR, [U-WR]
[U-SR]
[A-SR]
[R-SR]
A-SR
A-SR
C-PR
C-SR, [U-\\lR]
R-M
R-V
A-WR
U-PR
R-WR
U-PR
C-PR
O-V
U-M, O-WR
R-V
O-t1
Table 3-4. u.s. Fish and Wildlife bird species list and species
occurrence for Atka Island, Alaska (Cont'd).
SPECIES
Canvasback
Greater Scaup*
Tufted Duck
Common Goldeneye
Bufflehead
Old squaw
Harlequin Duck
Steller's Eider
Common Eider*
King Eider
White-winged Scoter
Surf Scoter
Black Scoter
Smew
Common Merganser
Red-Breasted Merganser*
HAWKS AND FALCONS
Rough-legged Hawk*
Bald Eagle*
Marsh Hawk
Gyrfalcon
Peregrine Falcon* (Peale's)
Merlin
PTARMIGAN
Rock Ptarmigan*
CRANES
Sandhill Crane
SHOREBIRDS
Black Oystercatcher*
American Golden Plover
Black-bellied Plover
Ruddy Turnstone
Whimbrel
Wood Sandpiper*
Wandering Tattler
Lesser Yellowlegs
3-33
OCCURRENCE
R-WR
C-WR, U-SR
O-PR
C-\'1R, U-SR
C-WR
C-HR, R-SR
C-PR
R-WR
C-PR
R-WR
C-WR, O-SR
R-V
C-WR, R-SR
R-M
O-WR
U-SR, C-WR
R-M
C-PR
R-V
U-WR, R-SR
C-PR
R-V
C-PR
O-M
C-PR
U-M
R-H
C-H, U-SR
R-M
R-SR, O-H
U-H
R-V
Table 3-4. U.S. Fish and Wildlife bird species list and species
occurrence for Atka Island, Alaska (Cont'd).
SPECIES
Rock Sandpiper*
Pectoral Sandpiper
Baird's Sandpiper
Dunlin
Western Sandpiper
Bar-tailed Godwit
Sanderling
PHALAROPES
Red Phalarope
Northern Phalarope*
JAEGERS
Pomarine Jaeger
Parsitic Jaeger*
Long-tailed Jaeger
GULLS AND TERNS
Glaucous Gull
Glaucous-winged Gull*
Slaty-backed Gull
Herring Gull
Mew Gull
Black-headed Gull
Black-legged Kittiwake*
Red-legged Kittiwake*
Sabine's Gull
Arctic Tern*
Aleutian Tern*
ALCIDS
Common Murre*
Thick-billed Murre*
pigeion Guillemot*
Marbled Murrelet
Kittlitz's Murrelet*
Ancient Murrelet*
Cassin's Auklet*
Parakeet Auklet*
Crested Auklet*
3-34
OCCURRENCE
C-PR
O-M
R-M
R-r1, R-\'1R
R-V
U-M
U-WR
C-N
U-SR, C-M
[U-M, U-SR]
C-SR
[R-M]
O-WR
C-PR
R-V
R-WR
O-~'1R
R-M
C-SR, [U-WR]
[R-M]
[R-M]
C-SR
U-SR
A-PR
A-PR
A-PR
U-PR
U-SR, R-WR
C-SR, R-WR
U-SR
C-SR, O-~'1R
A-SR, u-vm
Table 3-4. U.S. Fish and Wildlife bird species list and species
occurrence for Atka Island, Alaska (Cont'd).
SPECIES
Least Auklet*
Whiskered Auklet*
Horned Puffin*
Tufted Puffin*
OWLS
Snowy Owl*
Short-eared Owl*
CORVIDS
Common Raven*
WRENS
Winter Wren*
THRUSHES AND PIPITS
Water Pipit*
SHRIKES
Northern Shrike
FINCHES AND SPARROWS
Gray-crowned Rosy Finch*
Common Redpoll *
Song Sparrow*
LONGSPURS and BUNTINGS
Lapland Longspur*
Snow Bunting*
A = Abundant
C = Common
U = Uncommon
0 = Occasional
R = Rare
M = Migrant
PR
SR
WR
V
[ ]
*
3-35
=
=
=
=
=
=
OCCURRENCE
A-SR,
C-SR
C-SR,
A-SR,
R-VlR
U-M
C-PR
C-PR
R-V
R-V
A-PR
O-V
C-PR
A-SR
C-PR
Permanent
O-WR
U-V-lR
U-WR
Resident
Summer Resident
l-Hnter Resident
Vagrant
Offshore
Known Breeder
3.3 Aquatic Environment
3.3.1 Fisheries
Species Present
Chuniisax Creek contains indeginous pink salmon (Onchorhynchus
gorbuscha) and silver salmon (0. kisutch) as well as Dolly
Varden trout (Salvelinus malma) in both anadromous and landlock-
ed forms. Al though no chum salmon (£:.. keta). have as yet been
recorded, they are present in other area streams (Holms, person-
al communication) and are said to frequent Chuniisax Creek in
the late fall.
Pink salmon were seen in the largest numbers during the survey
with an estimated 11,500 fish at the peak of the 1982 run
recorded during mid-September. Pink salmon in Chuniisax Creek
are not able to surmount the first falls above the stream mouth
and this is the limit of their movement upstream.
Silver salmon were seen in smolt and large fry stages of the
1981 and 1982 year classes, respectively. Silver salmon seen
were found within both the main stream (Chuniisax) and the small
side tributary flowing into Chuniisax from the east. All fish
seen were below the first falls from the stream mouth.
Villagers mentioned that a few silvers had been known to
surmount the first falls and reach the second falls (Figure
3-4,b).
Chum salmon although not seen in Chuniisax, were noted in
adjacent streams. The villagers reported that chum have been
known to spawn in the creek. If chum salmon do spawn in
Chuniisax Creek, they would be capable of surmounting the first
3-36
KEY TO FALLS
A 1 st FALLS
B 2 nd FALLS
C 3rd FALLS
o 4th FALLS
E 5 th FALLS
F 6 th FALLS
'., .... ""'.,:-'. I
I,:f J A.i.:.~:_ 'I""'Q-
,
FFECTED BY WATERFALLS S~D PROJECT THE PROPO
SERVICES ~_T~E~C~H~N~IC_A_L~~~~~~_ I NORTHERN
FIGURE 3.4 I • \11 = 250 SCALE·
I:
t~ .,
falls (Figure 3-4,a), but not the second (Figure 3-4,b). This
species, however, prefers lower stream areas and spawn in much
the same habitat as the pinks (Hart, 1973), utilizing the whole
stream below the first falls and preferring the areas where the
streambanks are undercut.
Sockeye salmon are not known to occur in Chuniisax Creek because
there are no suitable nursery lakes in the lower reaches and
sockeye salmon would not be able to negotiate the lower falls.
King salmon were not noted in Chuniisax Creek nor are they known
to occur in area streams.
Dolly Varden trout were seen in the stream from the mouth to the
seventh falls. This species inhabits the main stream as well as
many small tributaries and a large lake to the east (Figure 3-1,
4) and downstream of the proposed dam site. Members of this
species found below the second falls are assumed to be anadro-
mous while those noted above the second falls and up to the
seventh falls are landlocked (Figure 3-1, 2 through 5). Of the
adult Dolly Varden seen, no members of the landlocked population
exceeded 20 cm in length (fork length). The largest fish were
seen in a small tributary within the proposed inundation area
(Figure 3-1, 6).
The Chuniisax estuary provides habitat for numerous fishes, many
of which are edible and taken periodically by the villagers.
Among the more abundant fishes are kelp greenlings (Hexagrammos
decagrammus), rock soles (Lepidopsetta bilineatta), spotted
snailfish (Liparis callyodon), and great sculpins (Myoxocephalus
polyacanthocephalus) (Table 3-5). Among the more sought after
fishes such as Pacific halibut and salmon, only salmon use the
estuary, while halibut frequent the deeper waters.
3-38
Table 3-5. Fishes observed within the Chuniisax Stream area on
Atka Island.
SPECIES
Kelp Greenling
Rock Sole
Spotted Snail fish
Great Sculpin
Three-Spined Stickleback
Silver Salmon
Churn Salmon
Pink Salmon
Dolly Varden (anadromous form)
Dolly Varden (landlocked form)
3-39
LOCATION
Stream mouth and estuary
Stream mouth and estuary
Stream mouth and estuary
Stream mouth and estuary
Known to fist falls from
stream mouth
Known to second falls from
stream mouth
Known to second falls from
stream mouth
Known to first falls from
stream mouth
Known to first falls from
stream mouth
Known to seventh falls from
mouth, including lake on
east side and tributaries
Within the intertidal area of the estuary (Figure 3-1,1) a
developing delta is present at the stream mouth, the surface of
which is exposed at low tide. The delta is covered with clumps
of algae (Table 3-6) and provides suitable habitat for inverte-
brates including shellfish. However, according to accounts by
the villagers, this area is not used for the collection of
shellfish for food.
Spawning Habitat
The area of stream bed within the intertidal zone (Figure 3-1,
1) is not preferred spawning habitat for any of the salmonids
found in Chuniisax Creek. Some pink salmon were seen here
although no fish were found to be digging redds or spawning.
Directly above the intertidal, the gradient increases and the
stream flows around a small island (Figure 3-1,2). In the
vicinity of the island, pinks were spawning in large numbers.
upstream is a large hole which provides a resting area for
migrating fish and is fished by the villagers. This area
provides good spawning habitat and is comprosed of small gravel
(2 to 32 mm diameter) which cover the entire northwest shore.
Suitable spawning habitat in the deeper areas are restricted to
a few crevasses.
Continuing upstream is an area where the streambed consists of
rock with little gravel, and is not suitable spawning habitat.
Above this area the channel is straight until above the first
falls. This straight portion of the stream bottom is made up
almost entirely of larger gravel (average 15 cm diameter).
The entire stream is utilized by spawning salmon with small
pockets of suitable spawning substrate (gravel from 2 to 60 mm
diameter) in riffles behind larger rocks and under the stream
banks.
3-40
Table 3-6. Marine algae of the Chuniisax Estuary.
GENERA LOCATION
Fucus Upper intertidal
Halosaccion Upper intertidal
Ulva Upper intertidal
Porphyra Upper intertidal
Enterornorpha Upper intertidal
Odonthalia Upper intertidal
Soranthera (Epiphytic on Odonthalia)
Gigartina Upper and lower intertidal
ptilota Lower intertidal
Rhodornynea Lower intertidal
Desrnarestia Lower intertidal
Alaria Lower intertidal
Iridaea Lower intertidal
Mernbranoptera Lower intertidal
Cryptonernia Lower intertidal
3-41
The most productive spawning area is a small side tributary
flowing into Chuniisax Creek from the north. Although the
stream is only 2 feet wide the streambed affords ideal spawning
habitat, the majority of which is underground, below the cutbank
of the channel. Within this area silver salmon smolt and fry,
Dolly Varden fingerlings, and pink salmon adults were found.
Immediately downstream of the first falls the streambed is rocky
except for isolated riffles and a local pocket of fine gravel on
the north bank. The rocky area is unsuitable for spawning. The
riffles are marginal but gravels along the north bank are
ideal.
Amongst the first falls some excellent spawning habitat exists
most noteably in a hole approximately 5 feet deep just prior to
the stream's second bend. Above this area and up to the next
rapids, the bottom provides poor spawning substrate except for a
few restricted areas along the north stream bank (Figure 3-5,f).
The rapids encountered downstream of the second falls (Figure
3-4,b) are interspersed with pockets of good to excellent habi-
tat. However, most of the area is quite rocky and unsuitable
for spawning. The most notable area exists within the first
part of the rapids amongst the larger rocks and in a hole ap-
proximately 8 feet deep along the north bank in the bend below a
large rock wall (Figure 3-5,g). None of these areas were larger
than 3 feet by 5 feet, but the substrate (2 to 60 mm diameter)
affords ideal spawning habitat.
The second falls (Figure 3-4,b) are the limit of any known
anadromous fishes. These falls are approximately 15 feet high
dropping 90 degrees to a shallow pool only 2 feet deep.
Directly above the second falls and up to the sixth falls and
damsite (Figure 3-4,f), the stream meanders through a series of
3-42
r'~ .. ,
Jt1
, i,,'
a
b
c
d
e
f
9
h
i
J
k
DELTA INTERTIDAL
SMALL ISLAND
DEEP HOLE
BOTTOM ROCKY STREAM
FROM NORTH SIDE CHANNEL
BANK NOR TH STREAM BANK
G NORTH BOTTOM ALON
DEEPER FROM LAKE
SMALL STREAM
AK E TO LARGE L
FLOWING
T OF STREAM EAS
MA LL TRIBUTARlg~M I~ITE S ABOVE
VALLEY TO WEST OF
LARGE LAKE STREAM
~L....-:::. ... · -:-::-. TAT AREAS
IMPORTANT N~~~X PROJECT OF THE CHU
~ORTHERN SERVICES TECHNICAL .
ALE · III = 250 SC . I FIGURE 3.5
rapids and riffles which are interspersed with some excellent
spawning habitat. This portion of the stream is broken by four
more sets of falls, three of which are impassable to the
upstream migration of fish (Figure 3-4,c-f).
Dolly Varden likely utilize many of the small gravel bars found
throughout this area, in particular, near the mouth of a small
tributary (Figure 3-5,h) flowing into Chuniisax from the large
lake to the east of the creek (Figure 3-5,i). A rather large
population of Dolly Varden are present here and in the lake as
well. Spawning Dolly Varden also utilize the streams flowing
into this lake and in fact one adult fish in spawning colors was
noted here near the mouth of a creek at the east end of the
lake.
The stream above the dam site up to the seventh falls provides
excellent spawning habitat for salmonids and it appears that
Dolly Varden utilize the area (Figure 3-1, 5 and 6). The most
notable feature of the spawning areas within the inundation area
include a number of small streams flowing through the valley
from the north into the main creek (Figure 3-1, 6 and 3-5,j).
These streams are semi-subterranean in nature and are inhabited
by a large population of Dolly Varden. None of these streams
are wider than 2 feet, or deeper than 3 feet. However, the
streams are of interest in that they contain excellent spawning
habitat for the fish present, with substrate gravels ranging
from 2 to 20 mm diameter.
Based on this field survey it is apparent that these small
streams are the preferred spawning habitat for the trout. How-
ever, it should be noted that this habitat type is common in the
area both within and beyond the impoundment area and that pres-
ent population levels would be sustained in the event that a
reservoir is created.
3-44
The lake west of the inundation area (Figure 3-5,k) may become a
part of the final reservoir as it is presently separated from
the inundation area by less than a one foot rise in the topo-
graphy. Should this lake become included within the new reser-
voir, the existing ~ malma population would then be introduced
here where presently no fish exist. The villagers said that the
lake is quite deep, and soundings are not available. There are
no large streams flowing into this lake and those which are
present would not be used by S. malma for spawning purposes.
However, the lake's shore is composed of gravel substrate which
is suitable spawning habitat for S. malma (Blackett, 1968).
Above the inundation area, but still below the seventh falls,
the stream bottom is quite suitable for the continued spawning
of ~ malma and in fact provides excellent areas of stream
bottom for the protection of young fish. These areas are matted
with luxuriant growth of underwater mosses and White Water
Crowfoot. The pool directly below the seventh falls is at least
8 feet deep and gravel substrate around the edges of this pool
provides good spawning substrate for S. malma. The falls are 15
feet high at an angle of 90 degrees and quite impassable to any
upward migration of fish. Above the seventh falls, Chuniisax
does not appear to contain any fish. The small lakes flowing
into the stream do not contain fish either.
The stream meanders about 2 miles to a large lake approximately
1500 feet long and 700 feet wide, of unknown depth, which feeds
the head waters of Chuniisax. This lake provides excellent
habitat for salmonids and contains fresh water shrimp. However,
no fish appear to be present.
3-45
3.3.2 Marine Mammals
While Sea Otter (Enhydra lutris) and Harbor Seal phoca
vitulina) are found in large numbers throughout the Atka region,
the sighting of either animal within the Chuniisax estaury is
rare. This is probably due to the heavy hunting pressure near
the village.
3.3.3 Marine Algae
Rich communities of marine algae are found in the Chuniisax
estuary. The most notable communities are comprised of
Halossaccion glandiforme, Fucus gardneri, and Ulva lactuca on
the delta (Figure 3-S,a).
The remaining areas of shoreline are quite rocky. The communi-
ties of algae growing in these areas are quite dense and provide
good habitat for fishes during high tide. Intertidal zonation
is quite evident in these areas and algal zonation appears to
follow the benchmark distance outline presented by Lebednik et
al. (1971).
A list of the more abundant algae is presented in Table 3-6.
3-46
4.0 ARCHAEOLOGY
4.1 Overview of Aleutian Prehistory
The Aleutian Islands are located between and inclusive of Attu
Island in the west (172°W Longitude) and Unimak Island in the
east (163°W Longitude) and lie between Latitudes 51°N and 55°N
(Collins, 1945). The Commander Islands are usually not consid-
ered as part of the Aleutian Chain owing to their distance from
Attu Island (288km) and the lack of known prehistoric occupation
by human groups (Aigner, 1978).
North of the Aleutian Island Chain is the Bering Sea. To the
south is the Pacific Ocean. The Aleutian Chain is a series of
110 islands sometimes likened to stepping stones between Asia
and North America. Although they only encompass some 37,840
km 2 of land, this area represents 68.5% of the total land mass
in the Bering Sea today (Lisitsyn, 1966). No other island chain
of the circumpolar zone lies between two continents, separates
two large bodies of water and has a record of being a route for
the migration of plants and animals during the Pleistocene
(Lindroth, 1963). This makes the Aleutian Chain a unique
environmental setting with a distinctive cultural history.
There has been no record found of human populations in the
Aleutian Islands prior to 8500 B.P., before present (Laughlin,
1980). The oldest known site in the Aleutians is Anangula
(Black and Laughlin, 1964) located near Umnak Island in the
eastern part of the Chain. Although no older archaeological
sites have been found, there is evidence that the occupants of
the Anangula site were marine oriented (Black and Laughlin,
1964) and possessed boats (Black, 1975). Throughout the ensuing
8,400 years, the Aleuts continued to occupy, and culturally
4-1
dominate the Aleutian Chain (Aigner, 1978). The Aleuts were so
successful at occupying their niche in the Aleutians that they
reached population densities as high as one person per square
habitat kilometer of maritime exploitation (Laughlin, 1975).
The basis of Aleut subsistence has always been the sea with
villages located on the coast (Laughlin, 1975). The majority of
nutrients available for use by humans come from littoral, sub-
littoral, or batho-zones on the shores, bays, inlets, rills,
insular shelves, and streams promoting this marine-oriented
subsistence pattern which is reflected in the archeological and
anthropomorphic record.
4.2 History of Atka Island
The Aleutian Islands were first recorded in a historical context
in 1741 with vitus Bering's voyage to Alaska. The first
encounter Russians made with Aleuts on Atka Island was around
1750 and 1752 when Trapennikov's vessel kidnapped a native with
the goal of instructing him in the Russian language (Bergsland,
1959). The Russians used the Aleuts in hunting sea otters for
their valuable pelts. By 1821, Russians had established a per-
manent settlement, including a church, on Atka. In 1872, the
village was moved to the east side of Nazan Bay with a popula-
tion of around 130 people (native and mixed-blood). In 1942,
the people were removed to Southeastern Alaska along with Aleut
refugees from Attu Island. They remained there until 1945 when
they returned to the rebuilt village of Atka.
4.3 Archaeological Sites on Atka Island
Existing knowledge of the archaeological sites within the survey
area is rather obscure. However, there are three known sites
east of the Chuniisax Creek mouth and estuary (Veltre, 1979).
4-2
These areas are recorded as State Site ATK-017, Latitude
52°12 1 45"N and Longitude 175°13 1 15"W.
The first of these areas is adjacent to the stream (Figure 4-1)
and consists of a low rise approximately 19 m above sea level
and 40 m (N/S) x 30 m (E/W) in size. There are three to four
oval depressions and one rectangular depression. The
rectangular depression is composed of two rooms, one
approximately one-third the size of the other and immediately
adjacent to the latter. Both depressions are approximately 1 m
below the surface (Veltre, 1979).
The second area is located next to the first but northwest of it
along the bluff overlooking the bay. This area is composed of 5
to 6 shallow oval depressions of approximately 12 m by 60 m
total area (Veltre, 1979).
The third area is located northeast of the first and is composed
of a 12.3 m by 5.6 m rectangular building depression and a small
1 m deep depression 1 m to the southeast (Veltre, 1979).
There are no recorded detailed archaeological field surveys
upstream from Site No. 13 described by Veltre (1979). The field
team did not record any further possible sites, however, site-
specific field checking should be undertaken once the project
structures have been detailed in the engineering feasibility
study.
4-3
/
/
I
5.0 PERMITTING CONSIDERATIONS
5.1 General
The following sections describe activities related to permitting
as outlined in Chapter 1. Section 5.2 describes permits re-
quired and obtained to conduct the field investigations as part
of this project (Task 1). Section 5.3 assesses the land status
of the proposed project location and future permitting require-
ments for continuation of the project. Copies of the appropri-
ate permits are provided in Appendix A.
5.2 Permits for Field Studies
The entire creek, from lake source to mouth, lies within town-
ship 928 176W, Seward Meridian. The land status is IC (In-
terim Conveyance) 159 to the Atxam Village Corporation, who
control all surface rights. The watershed lies within the
Aleutian Islands Unit, Alaska Maritime National Wildlife Refuge.
Subsurface rights are managed by United States Fish and Wildlife
Service.
Both of the above groups were contacted and appropriate authori-
zations were received to conduct the field studies.
5.3 Construction Permitting
The following sections describe the land status and permits re-
quired from the various local, state and federal agencies.
5.3.1 Local Government Permits
The local governing body of Atka, Alaska is the Atka Village
Council. The Council has presented its letter of non-objection
5-1
to proceed with all preliminary studies and permitting require-
ment work. The Atka Village Council must be contacted when all
preliminary work is complete. A request for permission to begin
construction procedures must be submitted to the village. The
surface estate of the project lands around the village of Atka
are controlled by Atxam Corporation (a profit corporation organ-
ized under the Alaska Native Claims Settlement Act of 1971).
The land status is IC (Interim Conveyance) 159 to the Atxam
Corporation.
5.3.2 State Government Permits
A Master Application (A-18) was sent to the Department of En-
vironmental Conservation on January 3, 1983 outlining the pre-
liminary specifications for construction of the proposed hydro-
electric project. The Department of Environmental Conservation
sent copies to all state agencies for their review. The state
departments had 15 days in which to respond with permitting
requirements. Following is a su~narization of permit informa-
tion from all state agencies that was provided through DEC.
A) Departments that did not respond:
1) Department of Administration
2) Department of Law
B) Departments with no permitting requirements:
1) Department of Commerce and Economic Development
2) Department of Community and Regional Affairs
3) Department of Education
4) Department of Health and Social Services
5) Department of Labor
6) Department of Military Affairs
7) Governor's Office
8) Department of Public Safety
9) Department of Revenue
10) Department of Transportation and Public Facilities
5-2
C) Departments with permitting requirements:
1 ) Department of Environmental Conservation
a) Certification of Reasonable Assurance
b) Food Service Permit (for construction camp)
c) Plan Review of iiater and Wastewater Facilities
(for construction camp)
d) Solid Waste Disposal Permit
e) Water Quality Short Term Variance
(see review sheet for explanation)
Note: The Department of Environmental Conservation's
Certificate of Reasonable Assurance permit proce-
dure will run concurrently with the Corps of
Engineers' permit review (Section 5.3.3). A con-
struction siltation plan must be presented during
this time period.
2) Department of Fish and Game
Habitat Protection Permit under AS 16.05.870 for
AS 1 6 • 0 5 • 84 0 •
3) Department of Natural Resources (DNR)
a) Water Rights Permit
b) Application to Modify or Construct a Dam
4) Division of Policy Development and Planning
a) Certificate of "Consistency Determination"
(see explanation this section)
It has been noted by DNR that a large archeological site,
ATK-017, is located just south of the staging area/powerhouse.
The boundaries of the site are approximate, but construction in
the area would very likely damage the site. The Division of
Parks strongly recommends that the staging area and powerhouse
be located at least 200 feet further north and that construction
traffic avoid the area. The U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
archeologist, Mr. Chuck Ditus, should be contacted on this
matter.
5-3
The DNR also required a statement of Beneficial Use of water
once the hydroelectric project is complete and a request for
periodic permit extensions as required.
The Department of Labor has noted that the description of work
on this project indicates that surface mining will be performed
and explosives will be used. The persons who are employed to do
the explosives blasting work will be required to have an
"Explosive Handler's Certificate of Fitness" issued by the
Department. Information about the certificate can be obtained
from the Chief of Voluntary Compliance, Division of Labor Stan-
dards and Safety, Occupational Safety and Health Section, Pouch
7-022, Anchorage, Alaska 99510.
Also, the Atxam Corporation and the contractors who work on this
project, should be aware of the Wage and Hour, Mechanical
Inspection, and Occupational Safety and Health regulations that
will apply to this project.
The Department of Policy Development and Planning (DPDP) and
some local governments have developed coastal management pro-
grams which are aimed at achieving a balanced use of coastal
resources. DPDP will review the Corps permit application (Sec-
tion 5.3.3) to ensure the proposed project is acceptable under
its coastal management program and issue or deny a "Consistency
Determination." The Corps cannot issue a permit without a
favorable consistency determination.
The Department of Transportation/public Facilities has indicated
that a public hearing would be in the public interest. This is
the only agency which indicated such a request.
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5.3.3 Federal Government Permits
The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers will require a permit under
Section 404 of the Clean Water Act prior to the discharge of
fill material into Chuniisax Creek. A permit would also be
required under Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act of 1899
if any work would occur seaward of the mean highwater mark and
as extended upstream on Chuniisax Creek to that elevation.
The application is evaluated by various agencies to determine
probable impacts associated with the proposed activities. If
there are no objections to the project, a permit usually will be
issued within 60 to 90 days.
The Department of Energy (Federal Energy Regulatory Commission)
also has not responded to permitting requirements but generally
requires a license for a major or minor hydroelectric power pro-
ject when federal lands or navigable waterways are involved.
The U.S. Fish and wildlife Service governs sub-surface rights in
the vicinity of the proposed project as it is part of the
National wildlife Refuge. They will require a "Special Use
Permit" for easements, roads, utilities, etc. in Wildlife Refuge
lands.
Federal Agencies which responded and do not require a permit are
as follows:
1) U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
2) U.S. Department of the Interior
(Bureau of Land Management)
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