Braun Intertec conducted sediment sampling for a proposed dry dock to be constructed on the Houston Ship Channel in Harris County, Texas. Approximately 15,000 cubic yards of dredge spoil was anticipated to be generated to deepen the ship channel and provide ample space for the dry dock, which is used to lift barges from the water prior to maintenance and/or cleaning. Sediment sample data was used to determine dredge spoil management needs and demonstrate compliance with U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) requirements and associated USACE Section 10 permitting. In preparation of dredge spoil management, sampling and analysis of the in situ sediment was required to meet USACE regulations.
Braun Intertec was retained to collect, analyze and evaluate the sediment samples which were used to adequately characterize the proposed dredge materials. Sampling locations, collection protocols and analytical requirements were detailed and negotiated with the Client based on USACE requirements. Each sample represented approximately 5,000 CY of dredge spoil. Samples were collected and analyzed for Resource Conversation and Recovery Act (RCRA) metals, volatile organic compounds (VOCs), semi-volatile organic compounds (SVOCs), total petroleum hydrocarbons (TPH), pesticides, polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs), total organic carbon (TOC), percent moisture, and dioxins/furans.
We evaluated the field data and laboratory analytical results and produced the permit for the USACE, in compliance with Section 10 of the Rivers and Harbors Act, including details of the sediment investigation and summary reporting. Project deliverables were provided to the Client on time and on budget and the USACE approved the Client’s application.
