Aquatic disposal field investigations Galveston, Texas, offshore disposal site. Evaluative Summary.

Date

1978

Authors

Wright, T.D.
Mathis, D.B.
Brannon, J.M.

Journal Title

Journal ISSN

Volume Title

Publisher

U.S. Army Engineer Waterways Experiment Station

Abstract

Investigated in 1975 and 1976, the physical (sedimentological), chemical, and bilogical impacts of dredged material disposal at an authorized disposal site offshore Galveston, Tex. A hopper dredge was used for dredging and disposal, and most of the dredged material consisted of clean sand and sandy silt from the Galveston Bay Channel. A small amount of contaminated material from the Texas City Turning Basin was also placed in the disposal site. Results indicate the authorized disposal site was appropriate for the disposal of material from the dredged areas. Sediment movement after disposal was away from the dredged areas; disposition would not occur in navigation channels. As expected, material deposited in the shallow parts of the disposal site had a rather rapid rate of erosion and dispersal, while that placed in the deeper areas tended to remain in place throughout the study period. The chemical impact of disposal on water quality and sedimentological parameters was minimal. Although some changes were observed, these had little, if any, significance. Biological impacts also appeared to be of marginal significance. Changes in the abundance and types of organisms in disposal areas could not be distinguished from changes in reference areas.

Description

89 pgs.

Keywords

dredging, dredge spoil, waste disposal sites, environmental impact, waste disposal, ocean dumping, sedimentation, deposition, water quality

Citation