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Yadkin Project (FERC No. 2197)
Draft Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring Plan
Alcoa Power Generating Inc.
May 2007
0
ALCOA
Licensee Contact: Gene Ellis
APGI, Yadkin Division
P.O. Box 576
Badin, NC 28009
[phone]
[e-mail]
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Table of Contents
Table of Contents
List of Tables .....,
List of Figures .....
Acronyms ............
1 Introduction .............................................................................................. .
1.1 Project Description ..........................................................................
1.2 Background .....................................................................................
1.3 Purpose of the Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring Plan .......................
1.4 Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring Plan Development .........................
2 Background on Continuous Tailwater Monitoring at the Yadkin Project
3 Continuous Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring ..............................................
3.1 Monitoring Locations ......................................................................
3.2 Methods ...........................................................................................
4 Unit Aeration Technology Evaluation ......................................................
5 Quality Control/Quality Assurance Procedures ........................................
6 Schedule, Implementation, Reporting .......................................................
6.1 Continuous Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring Schedule .....................
6.2 Aeration Technology Evaluation ....................................................
7 References .................................................................................................
Appendices
Appendix A: Quality Assurance Project Plan
Appendix B: Summary of Consultation
Appendix C: Consultation Record
Appendix D: Comments Received on Draft Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring Plan and APGI's
Responses
..i
. ii
iii
iv
.1
.l
.1
.1
.2
.4
.5
.5
.5
11
13
14
14
14
15
Yadkin Project i Draft Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring Plan
FERC No. 2197 May 2007

List of Tables
Table 1: DO Monitoring Plan Specified Instrument Site Locations ............................................... 5
Table 2: Schedule for Continuous Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring ............................................... 14
Yadkin Project ii Draft Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring Plan
FERC No. 2197 May 2007

List of Figures
Figure 1: Yadkin Project Regional Locus Map .............................................................................. 3
Figure 2: Location of High Rock Tailwater Continuous Monitoring Instrument ........................... 7
Figure 3: Location of Tuckertown Tailwater Continuous Monitoring Instrument ......................... 8
Figure 4: Location of Narrows Tailwater Continuous Monitoring Instrument .............................. 9
Figure 5: Location of Falls Tailwater Continuous Monitoring Instrument .................................. 10
Yadkin Project iii Draft Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring Plan
FERC No. 2197 May 2007

Acronyms
APGI
DO
FERC
Licensee
NCDWQ
NCDWR
NCWRC
Plan
Project
QAPP
USEPA
USFWS
Yadkin
Yadkin Project
Yadkin Project
FERC No. 2197
Alcoa Power Generating Inc. or Licensee
Dissolved Oxygen
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission
Alcoa Power Generating Inc. (APGI)
North Carolina Division of Water Quality
North Carolina Division of Water Resources
North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission
Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring Plan
Yadkin Project or Yadkin Hydroelectric Project (FERC No. 2197)
Quality Assurance Project Plan
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
U.S Fish and Wildlife Service
Yadkin Division of Alcoa Power Generating Inc.
Yadkin Hydroelectric Project (FERC No. 2197) or Project
iv Draft Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring Plan
May 2007

1 Introduction
1.1 Project Description
The Yadkin Hydroelectric Project (Yadkin Project or Project) is owned by Alcoa Power
Generating Inc. (APGI), awholly-owned subsidiary of Alcoa Inc. (Alcoa). APGI's Yadkin
Division (Yadkin) is responsible for operation of the Project. The Yadkin Project includes four
hydroelectric developments, the High Rock, Tuckertown, Narrows and Falls developments,
which are located on a 38-mile stretch of the Yadkin River (see Figure 1). High Rock, the most
upstream development, is located at mile 253 on the Yadkin River and serves as the principal
storage facility for the entire Yadkin-Pee Dee River. The Tuckertown, Narrows, and Falls
developments are located approximately 8.7 miles, 16.5 miles, and 19.0 miles downstream,
respectively, of the High Rock Development.
The Yadkin Project is located approximately 60 miles northeast of Charlotte on the Yadkin River
in Davidson, Davie, Montgomery, Rowan, and Stanly counties in central North Carolina. The
Yadkin River and its tributaries are part of the Yadkin-Pee Dee River Basin, which extends from
the eastern slopes of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the Atlantic coast near Georgetown, South
Carolina. The Yadkin River's name changes to the Pee Dee River at its confluence with the
Uwharrie River. The Pee Dee River continues its southeastern flow to Winyah Bay, where it
meets the Atlantic Ocean.
1.2 Background
The Yadkin Project is licensed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC No.
2197). On ,the North Carolina Division of Water Quality (NCDWQ) issued a water
quality certification for the Yadkin Project under Section 401 of the Clean Water Act. On
APGI received a new license for the Project from FERC. In accordance with the conditions
of the 401 Water Quality Certification and the FERC License (Article X), APGI is required to
prepare a Dissolved Oxygen (DO) Monitoring Plan (Plan) and a Quality Assurance Project Plan
(QAPP) for the Project, and to monitor dissolved oxygen and temperature conditions in
accordance with the specifications of the DO Monitoring Plan and the QAPP. The QAPP is
located in Appendix A of this DO Monitoring Plan.
1.3 Purpose of the Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring Plan
The purpose of the Yadkin Project DO Monitoring Plan is to monitor ongoing dissolved oxygen
and temperature conditions in the four Yadkin Project tailwaters and to allow an assessment of
changes to tailwater DO concentrations that occur as aeration equipment is installed and DO
enhancement measures undertaken at the Project, in accordance with the conditions of the 401
Water Quality Certification issued by NCDWQ for the Yadkin Project. The 401 Water Quality
Certification outlines the schedule for the installation of the aeration equipment designed to
increase tailwater DO concentrations and enhance water quality in the four Project development
tailwaters. The DO enhancement program is designed to meet water quality standards for DO
Yadkin Project 1 Draft Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring Plan
FERC No. 2197 May 2007

downstream of each of the hydro developments. The DO enhancement program will first
address DO concentrations below the Narrows and High Rock developments, and then monitor
these results to determine what DO enhancements might be needed in the tailwaters of the
Tuckertown and Falls developments.
1.4 Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring Plan Development
On , a Draft Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring Plan and QAPP were distributed to NCDWQ,
North Carolina Division of Water Resources (NCDWR), North Carolina Wildlife Resources
Commission (NCWRC), U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA), and the U.S Fish and
Wildlife Service (USFWS) for comment and review. Comments were requested by
Comments were received from
A complete record of this consultation is provided in Appendices B, C, and D.
Yadkin Project 2 Draft Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring Plan
FERC No. 2197 May 2007

Figure 1: Yadkin Project Regional Locus Map
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Yadkin Project 3 Draft Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring Plan
FERC No. 2197 May 2007

2 Background on Continuous Tailwater Monitoring at the
Yadkin Project
In August 2001, APGI filed a Dissolved Oxygen Plan developed as required by FERC Order
dated August 2, 2000. FERC's Order approved APGI's license amendment request and
amended the FERC License for the Project to reflect changes in the Project associated with
proposed generating unit upgrades. To address concerns regarding the potential effects of the
proposed unit upgrades on Project water quality, FERC included Article 39 in the amended
license requiring a DO Plan to assess the effect of the generating unit upgrades on DO
concentrations below the Project developments and, if necessary for compliance with state water
quality standards, to develop and implement measures to improve tailwater DO conditions.
Since 2001, APGI has been operating continuous dissolved oxygen and temperature monitors in
the Narrows and Falls tailwaters from May 1 through November 30 of each year. The
monitoring instruments were located to provide a representative sample of DO concentrations
throughout each of the tailwater areas. To confirm the representativeness of the current monitor
locations, APGI conducted several field surveys designed to examine the lateral and longitudinal
change in tailwater DO conditions and to determine if the monitor locations were indicative of
overall tailwater conditions. Results of these studies demonstrated that both monitoring
instruments are located in areas that are generally representative of overall tailwater conditions
(NAI, 2005).
Beginning in 2003, continuous tailwater DO and temperature monitoring instruments were added
to the Tuckertown and High Rock tailwaters. The representativeness of these instrument
locations within the tailwaters was also evaluated through field investigations by APGI (NAI,
2005).
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FERC No. 2197 May 2007

3 Continuous Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring
3.1 Monitoring Locations
One site in each of the four Project tailwaters (High Rock, Tuckertown, Narrows, Falls) will be
monitored. The locations of each monitoring instrument will be the same year to year (see Table
1 and Figures 2-5) unless other conditions require the evaluation of a new location for placement
either on a temporary or permanent basis. However, no change in instrument location will occur
without consultation with NCDWQ.
Table 1: DO Monitoring Plan Specified Instrument Site Locations
Tailwater Latitude Longitude
High Rock N35 35 48.279 W 80 13 54.184
Tuckertown N 35 29 01.739 W 80 10 21.234
Narrows N 35 25 05.637 W 80 OS 28.767
Falls N 35 23 28.734 W 80 04 14.938
The continuous DO monitoring instruments located in the High Rock, Tuckertown and Falls
tailwaters are anchored to buoys and sit approximately one meter below the water surface. The
Narrows tailwater instrument is suspended in a pipe anchored to a bridge abutment. The
Narrows tailwater instrument is approximately one to four meters below the water surface
depending upon discharge from the development.
3.2 Methods
YSI 6920 in situ field instruments will be used for the monitoring in each of the monitoring
locations. A small boat is required to reach each monitoring location. Once the instruments are
deployed and anchored to the existing buoys or pipe at the monitoring locations (see Section
3.1), the instruments will be set to record and store DO and water temperature measurements
every 15 minutes for the period May 1 through November 30, annually.
Weekly site visits will be made to each instrument to download data, check for fouling, and to
calibrate the field instruments in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications and the
attached QAPP (Appendix A). The field instruments will be fully serviced and DO membranes
will be replaced monthly in accordance with the manufacturer's procedures and the QAPP
(Appendix A). At the end of the monitoring season, field instruments will be retrieved, cleaned
and stored.
The instrument model specified above may be modified, as necessary or desired. However, the
Licensee will notify NCDWQ of its intention to change the instrument model before a new
model is deployed.
Yadkin Project 5 Draft Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring Plan
FERC No. 2197 May 2007

If an instrument is lost, stolen, damaged or not functioning properly, it will be replaced with a
backup instrument as soon practicable.
If at any time APGI or its Monitoring Subcontractor determines conditions in the Yadkin Project
tailwaters are unsafe, APGI may at its sole discretion suspend monitoring or related calibration,
data retrieval, and downloading activities until conditions are determined to be safe. If APGI
determines that it is no longer safe to continue monitoring at a specific location, APGI will notify
NCDWQ. The Monitoring Subcontractor will at all times follow APGI's Subcontractor Health
and Safety Plan and all applicable safety requirements required by regulating agencies and
APGI.
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Yadkin Project 7 Draft Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring Plan
FERC No. 2197 May 2007
Figure 2: Location of High Rock Tailwater Continuous Monitoring Instrument

Yadkin Project 8 Draft Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring Plan
FERC No. 2197 May 2007

Yadkin Project 9 Draft Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring Plan
FERC No. 2197 May 2007
Figure 4: Location of Narrows Tailwater Continuous Monitoring Instrument

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FERC No. 2197 May 2007

4 Unit Aeration Technology Evaluation
APGI plans to undertake a series of Project modifications designed to increase DO
concentrations and enhance water quality in the four Project development tailwaters, in
accordance with the DO Enhancement Schedule approved by NCDWQ in the 401 Certification
for the Yadkin Project (Table X). The continuous tailwater DO monitoring will measure
ongoing dissolved oxygen and temperature conditions in the four Yadkin Project tailwaters to
allow an assessment of changes to tailwater DO concentrations that occur as aeration equipment
is installed at each of the refurbished/upgraded units at the Project developments. The DO
enhancement program is designed to meet water quality standards for DO downstream of each of
the hydro developments. The DO enhancement program will first address DO concentrations
below the Narrows and High Rock developments, and then monitor these results to determine
what DO enhancements might be needed in the tailwaters of the Tuckertown and Falls
developments.
In accordance with the DO enhancement schedule set forth in the 401 Water Quality
Certification for the Project, APGI will install aeration technology to Narrows Units 1-3 in
conjunction with a planned unit refurbishment/upgrade program followed by a special DO
monitoring study (up to a period that includes two summer seasons) to assess the effectiveness of
the aeration technology in increasing DO concentrations in the Falls tailwater. At the end of the
study, APGI will prepare and file a study report with NCDWQ and FERC. If the special study
fails to demonstrate that APGI can operate the Yadkin Project so as to meet state dissolved
oxygen standards in the Falls tailwater, APGI shall prepare and file an Action Plan for DO
enhancement in the Falls tailwater with NCDWQ and FERC.
Similarly, in accordance with the DO enhancement schedule set forth in the 401 Water Quality
Certification, APGI will install aeration technology to High Rock Units 1-3 in conjunction with a
planned unit refurbishment/upgrade program followed by a special DO monitoring study (up to a
period that includes two summer seasons) to assess the effectiveness of the aeration technology
in increasing DO concentrations in the Tuckertown tailwater. At the end of the study, APGI will
prepare and file a study report with NCDWQ and FERC. If the special study fails to demonstrate
that APGI can operate the Yadkin Project so as to meet state dissolved oxygen standards in the
Tuckertown tailwater, APGI shall prepare and file an Action Plan for DO enhancement in the
Tuckertown tailwater with NCDWQ and FERC.
For each of the special DO monitoring studies, the existing locations of the continuous
monitoring instruments will be used to evaluate various operating regimes. During each special
study, the DO and temperature measurements will be continuously measured every 15 minutes
and reviewed in the field in "real time." DO concentrations for each scenario will be recorded
throughout the study period or until equilibrium is reached (when three successive DO
measurements are within 0.5 mg/1 of each other). Once equilibrium is reached in the tailwater
under each operating scenario, real time monitoring will continue for at least two hours. At the
end of each day's testing, all data will be downloaded and evaluated to guide the following day's
testing. Various test scenarios will be run on successive days. Field instruments will be serviced
Yadkin Project 11 Draft Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring Plan
FERC No. 2197 May 2007

and calibrated prior to and after testing and checked with an independent instrument at the
beginning and end of each test scenario and in conjunction with each data download.
In addition to the DO and water temperature data measured from the existing continuous
monitoring locations, turbine power output and turbine discharge data will also be needed for
each of the special studies. The turbine power output for each powerhouse, measured with
existing metering equipment, will be recorded in the APGI Operating Center. Water flow
through all turbines will be calculated from power output for the turbine discharge.
Yadkin Project 12 Draft Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring Plan
FERC No. 2197 May 2007

5 Quality ControUQuality Assurance Procedures
In recognition of the requirements for valid and reliable information as the basis for sound
management decisions, APGI and its Monitoring Subcontractor will implement a QAPP
designed to attain desired quality levels in field and reporting activities. The QAPP was
developed in accordance with USEPA guidance documents for QAPPs~ in consultation with
NCDWQ in conjunction with this DO Monitoring Plan. The QAPP as approved by NCDWQ is
included as Appendix A of this Plan and should be referred to for specific details.
~ USEPA guidance documents used included: USEPA Requirements for Quality Assurance Project Plans (EPA
QA/R-5) dated March 2001 and USEPA's Guidance for Quality Assurance Project Plans (EPA QA/G-5) dated
December 2002.
Yadkin Project 13 Draft Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring Plan
FERC No. 2197 May 2007

6 Schedule, Implementation, Reporting
6.1 Continuous Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring Schedule
Upon approval of this DO Monitoring Plan and the QAPP located in Appendix A by NCDWQ,
APGI will modify the ongoing tailwater monitoring in accordance with this Plan and the QAPP.
Tailwater DO and water temperature monitoring will be conducted May 1 through November 30,
annually. Final data and an annual report will be filed with NCDWQ and Progress Energy by
March 31 of each year for the previous monitoring season. Final data and an annual report will
be filed with FERC within 30 days of the filing with NCDWQ. Continuous DO monitoring and
data reporting will be conducted in accordance with the schedule outlined in Table 2.
Table 2: Schedule for Continuous Dissolved Ox en Monitorin
Task Date
DO Monitoring Plan and QAPP effective date upon written approval by NCDWQ
Begin seasonal DO/water temperature May 1, annually
monitoring (measured at 15-minute intervals)
Complete DO/water temperature monitoring for November 30, annually
the season
Provisional data made available upon request to Annually, as requested
NCDWQ
Final data and annual report filed with NCDWQ By March 31, annually
and Progress Energy
Final data and annual report filed with FERC Within 30 days of filing with
NCDWQ
6.2 Aeration Technology Evaluation
In accordance with this Plan (Section 4) and the schedule outlined in the 401 Water Quality
Certification for the Yadkin Project, APGI will conduct two special DO monitoring studies (up
to two-years each during the summer season following installation of aeration technology at the
Narrows and High Rock developments) to evaluate the effectiveness of the aeration technology
installed at the Narrows and High Rock developments. At the completion of each study, APGI
will prepare and file a study report with NCDWQ and FERC. As discussed in Section 4, if the
special studies fail to demonstrate that APGI can operate the Yadkin Project so as to meet state
dissolved oxygen standards in the Tuckertown or Falls tailwater, APGI shall prepare and file an
Action Plan for DO enhancement for that tailwater with NCDWQ and FERC.
Yadkin Project 14 Draft Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring Plan
FERC No. 2197 May 2007

7 References
Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC). 2000. Order Amending License on Project
Number 2197-038. August 2, 2000.
Normandeau Associates, Inc. (NAI). 2005. Yadkin Water Quality Final Study Report. August
2005.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 2001. EPA Requirements for Quality Assurance
Project Plans. EPA QA/R-5. March 2001.
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 2002. Guidance for Quality Assurance Project Plans.
EPA QA/G-5. December 2002.
Yadkin Project 15 Draft Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring Plan
FERC No. 2197 May 2007

Appendix A
Quality Assurance Project Plan
Yadkin Project Draft Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring Plan
FERC No. 2197 May 2007

Yadkin Project (FERC No. 2197)
Tailwater Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring
Draft Quality Assurance Project Plan
Alcoa Power Generating Inc.
May 2007

Al Title and Approval Sheet
Yadkin Project (FERC No. 2197)
Tailwater Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring
Draft Quality Assurance Project Plan
Alcoa Power Generating Inc.
May 2007
Approved By:
Alcoa Power Generating Inc. Project Manager/Project QA Manager
Monitoring Subcontractor Project Manager/QA Manager
Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager
North Carolina Division of Water Quality QA Officer/Approving
Officer
Alcoa Power Generating Inc.
Yadkin Project (FERC No. 2197)
Tailwater DO Monitoring Draft QAPP
Date:
May 2007
Page 1 of 35

A2 Table of Contents
A 1 Title and Approval Sheet ............................................................................ 1
A2 Table of Contents ...................................................................................... .. 2
A3 Distribution List ........................................................................................ .. 4
A4 Project Organization ................................................................................. .. 5
AS Problem Definition/Background ............................................................... .. 7
A.5.1 Background ............................................................................................ ..7
A.5.2 Problem Statement ................................................................................. ..9
A6 Project/Task Description ........................................................................... 11
A7 Quality Objectives and Criteria for Measurement Data ........................... 12
A8 Special Training and Certification ............................................................ 16
A9 Documents and Records ........................................................................... 17
B 1 Sampling Process Design .......................................................................... 19
B2 Sampling Methods .................................................................................... 24
B3 Sample Handling and Custody .................................................................. 24
B4 Analytical Methods ................................................................................... 25
BS Quality Control ......................................................................................... 25
B6 Instrument Testing, Inspection, and Maintenance .................................... 26
B7 Instrument Calibration and Frequency ...................................................... 27
B8 Inspection/Acceptance of Supplies ........................................................... 28
B9 Non-direct Measurements ......................................................................... 28
B 10 Data Management ..................................................................................... 29
C1 Assessments and Response Actions .......................................................... 32
C2 Reports to Management ............................................................................ 32
D1 Data Review, Verification, and Validation ............................................... 33
D2 Verification and Validation Methods ........................................................ 33
D3 Reconciliation with User Requirements ................................................... 34
A u_ _7____ ___~_
Attachment A: Standard Operating Procedures for In Situ Field Instrument
Maintenance/Calibration and Data Downloads ...................................... A-1
Attachment B: Standard Operating Procedures for Calibrating YSI 58 Meters used for
Comparison with In Situ Field Instruments ............................................ B-1
Attachment C: Procedures for Replacing a Dissolved Oxygen Membrane on In Situ
Field Instruments .................................................................................... C-1
Attachment D: DO Calibration Form ............................................................................. D-1
Attachment E: Temperature Check Form ........................................................................E-1
Alcoa Power Generating Inc. May 2007
Yadkin Project (FERC No. 2197) Page 2 of 35
Tailwater DO Monitoring Draft QAPP

List of Tables
Table 1: Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring Plan Schedule .................................................... 11
Table 2: Data Quality Objectives and Criteria .................................................................. 13
Table 3: DO Monitoring Plan Specified Instrument Site Locations ................................. 19
Table 4: Field Measurement Method and Reporting Levels ............................................ 25
List of Figures
Figure 1: Program Organization Chart ............................................................................... 6
Figure 2: Yadkin Project Regional Locus Map .................................................................. 8
Figure 3: Location of High Rock Tailwater Continuous Monitoring Instrument ............. 20
Figure 4: Location of Tuckertown Tailwater Continuous Monitoring Instrument........... 21
Figure 5: Location of Narrows Tailwater Continuous Monitoring Instrument ................ 22
Figure 6: Location of Falls Tailwater Continuous Monitoring Instrument ...................... 23
Figure 7: Data Flow Chart ................................................................................................ 31
Alcoa Power Generating Inc. May 2007
Yadkin Project (FERC No. 2197) Page 3 of 35
Tailwater DO Monitoring Draft QAPP

A3 Distribution List
This Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) will be distributed to the following agencies
and entities with an interest or role in water quality monitoring conducted by Alcoa
Power Generating Inc. (APGI or Licensee) for the Yadkin Hydroelectric Project (FERC
No. 2197).
Gene Ellis, Alcoa Power Generating Inc.
Darlene Kucken, North Carolina Division of Water Quality
John Dorney, North Carolina Division of Water Quality
Todd Ewing, North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission
Ben West, U.S Environmental Protection Agency
Steve Reed, North Carolina Division of Water Resources
Mark Bowers, U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
Matthew Chan, Normandeau Associates, Inc.
Jeff Wollis, Normandeau Associates, Inc.
Wendy Bley, Long View Associates, Inc.
Joyce Brooks, Long View Associates, Inc.
Alcoa Power Generating Inc. May 2007
Yadkin Project (FERC No. 2197) Page 4 of 35
Tailwater DO Monitoring Draft QAPP

A4 Project Organization
The APGI Project Manager is responsible for overseeing all aspects of the continuous
dissolved oxygen (DO) monitoring program in the four Yadkin Project (Project)
tailwaters, including oversight of the subcontractor collecting the data in accordance with
the Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring Plan for the Project and this QAPP. The APGI Project
Manager is responsible for reporting data to the North Carolina Division of Water
Quality (NCDWQ) as described in Section A6.
The APGI Project Manager also acts as the Project QA Manager and is responsible for
maintaining the QAPP and Quality Assurance/Quality Control (QA/QC) files. The APGI
Project Manager/QA Manager is independent from personnel collecting the data and
ensures that the data collected is consistent with this QAPP. Also independent of the data
collection process, the APGI Project Manager/QA Manager is responsible for the final
review of documentation for the continuous DO and water temperature monitoring
QA/QC file.
The Monitoring Subcontractor Project Manager/QA Manager is independent of the data
collection process and is responsible for the review of data and supporting documentation
prior to submittal to the APGI Project Manager/QA Manager. The Monitoring
Subcontractor Project Manager/QA Manager oversees the field collection and
maintenance of equipment in accordance with this QAPP, the DO Monitoring Plan and
all associated Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs). The Monitoring Subcontractor
Project Manager/QA Manager is also responsible for reporting data and any
equipment/calibration issues to the APGI Project Manager/QA Manager and may reject
from reporting due to known equipment/calibration issues.
The Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager is responsible for directly overseeing
Monitoring Subcontractor Field Staff and the day-to-day coordination of field collection
and equipment maintenance in accordance with this QAPP, the DO Monitoring Plan and
all associated SOPs. The Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager is responsible for
reporting any equipment/calibration issues to the Data Processor and for making
decisions related to corrective action related to equipment/calibration issues encountered
by Monitoring Subcontractor Field Staff. The Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager
also makes recommendations for flagging data due to known equipment/calibration
issues.
The Monitoring Subcontractor Field Staff are responsible for downloading data and
maintenance of equipment and field log books in accordance with this QAPP, the DO
Monitoring Plan and all associated SOPS. Field Staff are responsible for reporting any
equipment/calibration issues to the Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager.
The downloaded data are processed into an annual database and electronic spreadsheets
by the Data Processor. The Data Processor is responsible for reviewing selected portions
Alcoa Power Generating Inc. May 2007
Yadkin Project (FERC No. 2197) Page 5 of 35
Tailwater DO Monitoring Draft QAPP

of the individual data files and for maintaining records of changes or flagging of data in
the database.
Several resource agencies have assisted in the development of this monitoring program
and QAPP and will serve as Technical Advisors to the program. These include NCDWQ,
North Carolina Division of Water Resources (NCDWR), North Carolina Wildlife
Resources Commission (NCWRC), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service (USFWS) and the
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA).
Figure 1: Program Organization Chart
APGI Project Manager/QA
Manager
Monitoring Subcontractor
Project Manager/QA Manager
Data Processor W Monitoring Subcontractor
Field Manager
Monitoring Subcontractor
Field Staff
Alcoa Power Generating Inc. May 2007
Yadkin Project (FERC No. 2197) Page 6 of 35
Tailwater DO Monitoring Draft QAPP

A5 Problem Definition/Background
A.5.1 Background
The Yadkin Project is owned by APGI, awholly-owned subsidiary of Alcoa Inc. (Alcoa).
APGI's Yadkin Division (Yadkin) is responsible for operation of the Yadkin Project.
The Yadkin Project includes four hydroelectric developments, the High Rock,
Tuckertown, Narrows and Falls developments, which are located on a 38-mile stretch of
the Yadkin River (see Figure 2). High Rock, the most upstream development, is located
at mile 253 on the Yadkin River and serves as the principal storage facility for the entire
Yadkin-Pee Dee River. The Tuckertown, Narrows, and Falls developments are located
approximately 8.7 miles, 16.5 miles, and 19.0 miles downstream, respectively, of the
High Rock Development.
The Yadkin Project is located approximately 60 miles northeast of Charlotte on the
Yadkin River in Davidson, Davie, Montgomery, Rowan, and Stanly counties in central
North Carolina. The Yadkin River and its tributaries are part of the Yadkin-Pee Dee
River Basin, which extends from the eastern slopes of the Blue Ridge Mountains to the
Atlantic coast near Georgetown, South Carolina. The Yadkin River's name changes to
the Pee Dee River at its confluence with the Uwharrie River. The Pee Dee River
continues its southeastern flow to Winyah Bay, where it meets the Atlantic Ocean.
The Yadkin Project is licensed by the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC
No. 2197). On ,APGI received a new license for the Yadkin Project from FERC.
During the relicensing process, APGI formed an Issue Advisory Group (IAG) composed
of members of federal and state resource agencies and other interested stakeholders to
identify issues related to water resources and to develop study plans for studies to address
potential impacts to water quality. Two specific studies related to water quality issues at
the Yadkin Project were conducted under the guidance of the Water Quality IAG: (1)
Yadkin Water Quality Study and (2) Sediment Fate and Transport Study. Another study
indirectly related to water quality issues, the Tailwater Fish and Aquatic Biota
Assessment, was conducted under the guidance of the Fish and Aquatics IAG whose
focus was to identify issues related to fish and aquatic resources. Data generated from
these studies were used during discussions with NCDWQ regarding the 401 Water
Quality Certification of the Yadkin Project.
On ,the NCDWQ issued a water quality certification for the Yadkin Project under
Section 401 of the Clean Water Act. In accordance with the conditions of the 401 Water
Quality Certification and the FERC License (Article, APGI is required to prepare a
DO Monitoring Plan for the Yadkin Project, and to monitor dissolved oxygen and
temperature conditions in accordance with the specifications of that plan. This QAPP
will become a component of the DO Monitoring Plan.
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Figure 2: Yadkin Project Regional Locus Map
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A.5.2 Problem Statement
The Yadkin Pee-Dee River Basinwide Water Quality Plan (Basinwide Water Quality
Plan), prepared by NCDWQ in March 2003, provides an overview of the Yadkin-Pee
Dee River basin. Increased monitoring of High Rock Reservoir over recent years (1999,
2000, and 2001) by NCDWQ has shown high levels of nutrients, combined with
chlorophyll a, turbidity and percent DO saturation excursions from the state standards.
The Basinwide Water Quality Plan discusses the low DO concentrations below High
Rock Dam, which, according to the Plan, likely result from hypolimnetic (deep water)
releases. The tailwater below High Rock Dam is listed on the impaired waters list (the
303[d] List) due to DO levels that do not meet state water quality standards.
Additionally, portions of High Rock Reservoir are on the 2006 North Carolina draft list
of impaired waters and require the development of Total Maximum Daily Loads
(TMDLs).
APGI began collecting baseline water quality data in the Project reservoirs and tailwaters
in 1999 in accordance with a water quality study plan developed with input from the Water
Quality IAG, APGI conducted monthly water quality sampling at reservoir locations and
at each of the four tailraces below the dams from June 1999 to December 2003 and an
additional station was added in Lick Creek in July 2003. The tailraces of the Falls and
Narrows developments were continuously monitored for DO and temperature for
extended periods (May through November) from 2000 through 2005; while the tailraces
of the High Rock and Tuckertown developments were continuously monitored for DO
and temperature for extended periods (May through November) in 2003 and 2004.
Additional DO and temperature measurements were collected at two sites in the Lick
Creek arm of Tuckertown Reservoir and at seven stations below the High Rock Dam
tailrace beginning in July 2003.
Specific to tailwater water quality, APGI's water quality study generally demonstrated
that nutrient and solids concentrations in the four development tailraces were generally
similar to conditions in the reservoirs immediately upstream of them, but that
temperature, pH, DO, nitrate and ammonia differed considerably. Based on the study
results, a downstream trend in median water quality values was apparent through the
tailraces. Water quality of High Rock and Tuckertown tailraces was fairly similar. These
two tailraces were turbid, nutrient rich, and contain moderate amounts of algal biomass.
Between Tuckertown and Narrows tailraces, there was a moderate reduction of ammonia,
chlorophyll a, nutrients, and solids. Water clarity improved somewhat in the downstream
tailraces. The water quality of Narrows and Falls tailraces was almost identical.
Although median concentrations were above the state standard, all four tailraces
experienced low DO concentrations.
The typical pattern at the High Rock tailrace showed reduced DO concentrations through
the summer period, which was a direct result of low DO in High Rock Reservoir. When
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river flows were high, water in the reservoir was exchanged more rapidly, translating into
relatively higher DO concentrations in the tailrace. The Tuckertown tailrace exhibited
patterns similar to High Rack. In the Narrows tailrace, there were frequent occurrences
of DO below 4 mg/1 from June to October. The study was unable to discern a clear
relationship between hydrometeorologic conditions and the frequency of low DO levels
in Narrows tailrace.
DO concentrations in the Narrows tailrace were generally higher than conditions
observed in either the High Rock or Tuckertown tailrace. The Narrows Unit 4 turbine
has two air injection valves to introduce air into the flow during generation. The aeration
valves on Unit 4 began operating in early 2001 and an initial study of Narrows tailwater
DO, conducted by APGI in 2001, generally demonstrated that with both valves and only
Unit 4 operating, about 2 to 4 mg/1 of DO was added to the tailwater. As part of the
Water Quality Study, APGI conducted additional operational testing in 2004 to further
examine the effect of Narrows Unit 4 air injection on tailwater DO. The 2004 test of the
effect of the two aeration valves on Unit 4 generally confirmed earlier results in 2001 that
with both valves operating, and just Unit 4 operating, about 2 mg/1 of DO was added to
the tailwaters. The tests also demonstrated that increases in Narrows tailwater DO levels
were generally translated into similar increases in DO concentrations below Falls Dam.
Data generated from the Water Quality Study were used during discussions with
NCDWQ regarding the 401 Water Quality Certification of the Yadkin Project.
Throughout the relicensing of the Yadkin Project, NCDWQ expressed concerns about
DO concentrations in each of the four Project tailwaters because they are frequently
below North Carolina's state water standards during periods of warm water temperature
and low river flows.
The Yadkin Project DO Monitoring Plan is being implemented to monitor ongoing DO
and temperature conditions in the four Yadkin Project tailwaters and to allow an
assessment of changes to tailwater DO concentrations that occur as aeration equipment is
installed and DO enhancement measures undertaken at the Yadkin Project, in accordance
with the conditions of the 401 Water Quality Certification issued by NCDWQ for the
Yadkin Project.
The purpose of this QAPP is to provide a quality assurance/quality control program for
the DO monitoring implemented under the DO Monitoring Plan so that the data can be
used by APGI and NCDWQ. The QAPP documents the data collection and the
procedures in place to ensure that the data are valid. This QAPP was developed in
accordance with the USEPA guidance document "Guidance for Quality Assurance
Project Plans, EPA QA/G-5" dated December 2002.
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A6 Project/Task Description
APGI's monitoring subcontractor will monitor DO and water temperature in accordance
with the DO Monitoring Plan at four sites (one in each of the four Yadkin Project
tailwaters), for the term of the Yadkin Project FERC License.
Table 1 summarizes the tasks anticipated to occur under the DO Monitoring Plan and this
QAPP. This QAPP will become part of the DO Monitoring Plan and will be effective
upon written approval by NCDWQ.
Table 1: Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring Plan Schedule
Task Date
QAPP effective date upon written approval by NCDWQ
Deploy field equipment April, annually
Begin seasonal DO/water temperature monitoring May 1, annually
(measured at 15-minute intervals)
Data downloads and field equipment May 1 through November 30,
maintenance/calibration weekly
Data Processor update Annual Database May 1 through November 30, every
two weeks
Monitoring Subcontractor Project Manager/QA May 1 through November 30, every
Manager submit provisional data to APGI Project two weeks
Manager/QA Manager
Complete DO/water temperature monitoring for the November 30, annually
season
Provisional data made available upon request to Annually, as requested
NCDWQ
Retrieve field equipment December, annually
Monitoring Subcontractor Project Manager/QA December-January, annually
Manager and APGI Project Manager/QA Manager
review data
Final data and annual report filed with NCDWQ By March 31, annually
and Progress Energy
Final data and annual report filed with FERC Within 30 days of filing with
NCDWQ
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Task Date
Initiate special study (up to 2 years) to evaluate the 2011
effectiveness of the aeration technology installed at
Narrows development on DO concentrations in the
Falls tailrace
Initiate special study (up to 2 years) to evaluate the 2013
effectiveness of aeration technology installed at
High Rock development on DO concentrations in
the Tuckertown tailrace
A7 Quality Objectives and Criteria for Measurement Data
The dissolved oxygen and temperature data collected in the tailwaters of the four Yadkin
Project developments will be primarily used to assess changes to tailwater DO
concentrations that occur as aeration equipment is installed and DO enhancement
measures undertaken at the Yadkin Project in accordance with the conditions of the 401
Water Quality Certification issued by NCDWQ for the Yadkin Project. The DO and
temperature data will be plotted every two weeks and reviewed for unusual values of DO
and temperature, as well as any period where water quality standards was not met. If
unusual values or periods of DO or temperature are found, the Monitoring Subcontractor
Project Manager/QA Manager will check for notes by the Monitoring Subcontractor
Field Manager regarding the data quality, review watershed conditions during
monitoring, e.g., storm events, and then check for possible effects of Project operations
affecting readings.
Data quality objectives are used to assess the adequacy of data in relation to the intended
use. Implementation and adherence to data quality indicators ensures that data quality
objectives are met. Data quality indicators are measures of quality assurance and include
statements of the precision, bias, and lower reporting limits necessary for the data to
address objectives.
This section focuses on several data quality indicators to ensure that the data collected are
valid and repeatable. Objectives for several of these data characteristics are summarized
in Table 2. Each data quality indicator is discussed briefly below along with how each is
addressed by this QAPP. The following sections of this QAPP provide further detail on
how each indicator is addressed.
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Table 2: Data Quality Objectives and Criteria
Parameter Method Units Measuremen
t Range Accuracy Completeness
Dissolved Electronic mg/L 0 - 50 mg/1 +/- 2% of the 90%
Oxygen meter reading or 0.2
mg/1 (whichever
is greater)/
resolution is 0.01
mg/1
Water Electronic °C -5 to +45 °C +/- 0.15 °C 90%
Temperature meter
Accuracy
Accuracy is a measure of the overall agreement of a measurement to a known value,
including a combination of random error (precision) and systematic error (bias) from
sampling and analytical operations.
In accordance with the SOPS in Attachment A, accuracy of the in situ field instruments
will primarily be assured by calibration and maintenance of the instruments per the
manufacturer's specifications. Each field instrument will be calibrated and checked for
damage before deployment at the beginning of the monitoring season and on a weekly
basis thereafter. The DO membranes will be replaced on each in situ field instrument on
a monthly basis (or more frequently, if necessary). Temperature thermistors will be
verified with a National Institute of Standards and Technology (KIST) certified
thermometer before deployment and upon removal of the instruments at the end of the
monitoring season to ensure the accuracy of the water temperature data.
Accuracy will also be ensured by comparing the in situ field instruments to a comparable
YSI 58 meter prior to the weekly calibration of each field instrument. The YSI 58 meter
will be calibrated according to the manufacturer's specifications and the SOPS in
Attachment B and compared to a NIST certified thermometer. Independent DO and
water temperature measurements using a YSI 58 meter will be compared to the field
instruments to ensure that the field instruments are not drifting (see Attachment A). If the
independent DO differs by more than 0.5 mg/L or the water temperature measurements
differ by more than 0.5 degree, the DO membrane of the in situ instrument will be
replaced or the probes on the field instrument will be replaced or reconditioned. The
Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager will make a note on the data QA transmittal
form instructing the Data Processor to flag measurements as suspect since the last valid
measurements obtained during the comparison.
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Precision
Precision is the measure of agreement among repeated measurements of the same
parameter under identical, or substantially similar conditions.
Prior to the weekly calibration of each in situ field instrument, independent DO and water
temperature measurements using a YSI 58 meter will be compared to the field
instruments. The YSI 58 meter will be calibrated according to the manufacturer's
specifications and the SOPs in Attachment B. The YSI 58 meter will be compared to a
NIST certified thermometer. If the independent DO differs by more than 0.5 mg/L or the
water temperature measurements differ by more than 0.5 degree, the DO membrane of
the in situ instrument will be replaced or the probes on the field instrument will be
replaced or reconditioned. The Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager will make a
note on the data QA transmittal form instructing the Data Processor to flag measurements
as suspect since the last valid measurements obtained during the comparison.
Bias
Bias is the systematic or persistent distortion of a measurement process that causes errors
in one direction.
Measurement bias is minimized by adhering to the standard, written procedures in
Attachments A, B, and C to ensure consistency if different personnel are involved in the
field monitoring. Each site visit is conducted by a field crew of two personnel that
provides an additional level of assurance that the SOPS are followed. The in situ field
instruments will be calibrated and maintained per the manufacturer's specifications.
Prior to the weekly calibration of each field instrument, independent DO and water
temperature measurements using a YSI 58 meter will be compared to the field
instruments to determine if there has been instrument drift. The YSI 58 meter will be
calibrated according to the manufacturer's specifications and the SOPs in Attachment B.
The YSI 58 meter will be compared to a NIST certified thermometer. If the independent
DO differs by more than 0.5 mg/L or the water temperature measurements differ by more
than 0.5 degree, the DO membrane of the in situ instrument will be replaced or the probes
on the field instrument will be replaced or reconditioned. The Monitoring Subcontractor
Field Manager will make a note on the data QA transmittal form instructing the Data
Processor to flag measurements as suspect since the last valid measurements obtained
during the comparison.
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Representativeness
Representativeness is the degree to which data accurately and precisely represent a
characteristic of a population, parameter variations at a sampling location, a process
condition or an environmental condition.
While the continuous DO data collected may not be representative of the watershed, it
will be representative of the stream reach being sampled. The purpose of the monitoring
is to monitor ongoing dissolved oxygen and water temperature conditions in the four
Yadkin Project tailwaters and to allow an assessment of changes to tailwater DO
concentrations that occur as aeration equipment is installed and DO enhancement
measures undertaken at the Yadkin Project, in accordance with the conditions of the 401
Water Quality Certification issued by NCDWQ. To confirm the representativeness of the
current locations, several field surveys were conducted prior to implementing continuous
DO and temperature monitoring. These surveys were designed to examine the lateral and
longitudinal change in tailwater DO conditions and to determine if the locations were
indicative of overall tailwater conditions. Results of these studies demonstrated that the
instruments are located in areas that are generally representative of overall tailwater
conditions (the red lines in Figures 3-6 indicate the transect locations of these surveys).
Additionally, the data is being collected in 15 minute intervals which allows for good
representation of daily trends in the data.
Comparability
Comparability is the measure of confidence that one data set can be compared to another.
The continuous monitoring locations are fixed and the latitude and longitude documented
to ensure that data are comparable spatially. Existing buoys (in the High Rock,
Tuckertown, and Falls tailwaters) and a pipe (in the Narrows tailwater) mark the
locations to ensure consistency. The field instruments are attached to the existing buoys
and pipe and these buoys and pipe are left in place at the end of the monitoring season.
The use of standard, written procedures in Attachments A, B, and C will ensure
consistency if different personnel are involved in the field monitoring. The Monitoring
Subcontractor Field Manager will review the procedures with the Monitoring
Subcontractor Field Staff prior to each monitoring season. Consultation with NCDWQ
will ensure that data collected under this QAPP will be comparable to that collected by
NCDWQ. Before modifying any measurement method, the APGI Project Manager/QA
Manager will review with NCDWQ the effects of such a modification.
' Normandeau Associates Inc. 2005. Water Quality Final Study Report. August 2005.
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Completeness
Completeness is the measure of the amount of valid data needed from a measurement
system.
There may be data gaps caused by unavoidable circumstances such as loss of instruments
due to high water, inoperability of instruments during extreme low water conditions,
instrument theft or destruction, instrument malfunction or instrument
maintenance/servicing and/or calibration. The goal is to have a minimum of 90% of the
expected data measurements usable for analysis. It is expected that at each monitoring
location, DO and water temperature measurements will be taken at 15-minute intervals
from May 1 through November 30 except for gaps due to unavoidable circumstances.
The reason(s) for missing data and data rejected from analysis will be included in the
annual data reports.
Sensitivity
Sensitivity is the capability of the instrument or method to discriminate between
measurement responses representing different levels of the variable of interest.
The instruments used measure the range of expected values for DO and water
temperature under all field conditions. Water temperature is reported to the nearest
hundredth of a degree Celsius. Dissolved oxygen (mg/L) will be calculated by the Sonde
from percent air saturation, temperature and salinity values. Salinity of freshwater will
be considered 0 ppt. The range of the DO sensor is 0 to 50 mg/L. The accuracy (from 0
to 20 mg/L) is plus or minus 2% of the reading or 0.2 mg/L, whichever is greater, and the
resolution of the sensor is 0.01 mg/L. DO values are typically reported to the nearest
hundredth.
A8 Special Training and Certification
All personnel responsible for field monitoring must be familiar with this QAPP and the
attached SOPS.
The Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager will train the Monitoring Subcontractor
Field Staff in field procedures and provide the SOPS in Attachments A, B, and C
(developed in accordance with the manufacturer's specifications for calibration, repair,
and maintenance) prior to each monitoring season. On a monthly basis, the Monitoring
Subcontractor Field Manager will visit each monitoring location for servicing the field
instruments and observe the field techniques of Monitoring Subcontractor Field Staff.
Any issues with technique will be corrected at that time and documented in the
appropriate field log book.
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All personnel responsible for field monitoring must complete a safety training as required
by regulating agencies and APGI. Documentation of completion of this training on an
annual basis will be maintained by the APGI Project Manager/QA Manager.
A9 Documents and Records
All personnel with a role in implementing the DO Monitoring Plan will receive the most
recently approved QAPP and associated documents. These documents will be updated as
necessary by the APGI Project Manager/QA Manager and distributed in electronic format
to all parties listed in Section A3. Any revisions to the QAPP will be noted on the title
page with the revision number and effective date. Only the APGI Project Manager/QA
Manager will have access to making revisions to the electronic copy of the QAPP.
During the monitoring season, the Monitoring Subcontractor Field Staff will maintain
records of calibration and maintenance in a field calibration log book and other field
notes/information in field log books. Each field instrument will be identified by its serial
number (or assigned a unique number if it does not have a serial number) and have its
own field log book. The Monitoring Subcontractor Field Staff will maintain a backup
copy of the field calibration log book and field log books in a separate file location from
the originals. Copies of relevant calibration forms, instrument maintenance records and
other notes related to field issues/observations created by the Monitoring Subcontractor
Field Staff will be transferred to the Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager on a
monthly basis. The Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager will maintain the copies as
backups until the end of each monitoring season.
The Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager will maintain Temperature Check Forms in
a thermistor log book for the comparisons of the thermistors with a NIST certified
thermometer. The Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager will maintain a backup copy
of the thermistor log book until the end of each monitoring season in a separate file
location from the original.
At the end of each monitoring season, the Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager will
provide copies of the field calibration log books, field log books, and the thermistor log
book to the Monitoring Subcontractor Project Manager/QA Manager. The Monitoring
Subcontractor Project Manager/QA Manager will provide copies to the APGI Project
Manager/QA Manager. The APGI Project Manager/QA Manager will maintain copies of
these records in the QA/QC files for this monitoring project for the term of the Yadkin
Project FERC License in a fire-proof cabinet. The APGI Project Manager/QA Manager
will control access to the QA/QC files.
The Monitoring Subcontractor Project Manager/QA Manager will maintain scans of all
forms and all data files in electronic format for five years in a fire-proof cabinet. Access
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to these files is controlled by the Monitoring Subcontractor Project Manager/QA
Manager.
All annual data reports submitted to NCDWQ (see Section A6) will also be maintained in
hard copy and electronic format by the APGI Project Manager/QA Manager for the term
of the Yadkin Project FERC License.
Details of electronic data management are further described in Section B10 of this QAPP.
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B1 Sampling Process Design
Continuous in situ DO/temperature instruments will be used to collect data at locations in
each of the four Yadkin Project tailwaters as specified in the DO Monitoring Plan. The
locations of each instrument will be the same year to year (see Table 3 and Figures 3-6)
unless other conditions require the evaluation of a new location for placement either on a
temporary or permanent basis. However, in accordance with the DO Monitoring Plan, no
change in instrument location will occur without prior consultation with NCDWQ.
Table 3: DO Monitoring Plan Specified Instrument Site Locations
Tailwater Latitude Longitude
High Rock N35 35 48.279 W 80 13 54.184
Tuckertown N 35 29 01.739 W 80 10 21.234
Narrows N 35 25 05.637 W 80 OS 28.767
Falls N 35 23 28.734 W 80 04 14.938
The DO/temperature monitoring instruments located in the High Rock, Tuckertown and
Falls tailwaters are anchored to buoys and sit approximately one meter below the water
surface. The Narrows tailwater instrument is suspended in a pipe anchored to a bridge
abutment. The Narrows tailwater instrument is approximately one to four meters below
the water surface depending upon discharge from the development.
The instruments record DO and water temperature at 15-minute intervals except during
unavoidable circumstances, such as instrument theft or destruction, instrument
malfunction or instrument maintenance/servicing and/or calibration, for the period May 1
through November 30, annually.
The DO and temperature data will be plotted every two weeks and reviewed for unusual
values of DO and temperature, as well as any period where water quality standards was
not met. If unusual values or periods of DO or temperature are found, the Monitoring
Subcontractor Project Manager/QA Manager will check for notes by the Monitoring
Subcontractor Field Manager regarding the data quality, review watershed conditions
during monitoring, e.g., storm events, and then check for possible effects of Project
operations affecting readings.
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Figure 3: Location of High Rock Tailwater Continuous Monitoring Instrument
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Figure 4: Location of Tuckertown Tailwatcr Continuous Monitoring Instrument
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Figure 5: Location of Narrows Tailwater Continuous Monitoring Instrument
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Figure 6: Location of Falls Tailwater Continuous Monitoring Instrument

B2 Sampling Methods
YSI 6920 in situ field instruments will be used for the monitoring in each of the
monitoring locations. A small boat is required to reach each monitoring location. Once
the instruments are deployed and anchored to the existing buoys or pipe (see Section B 1)
at the monitoring locations, the instruments will be set to record and store DO and water
temperature measurements every 15 minutes, for the period May 1 through November 30,
annually.
The Monitoring Subcontractor Field Staff will make weekly site visits to download data,
check for fouling, and to calibrate the field instruments. Field instrument calibration and
weekly data downloads will be conducted in accordance with the manufacturer's
specifications and the attached SOPS (Attachment A). The instruments will be fully
serviced and DO membranes will be replaced monthly in accordance with the
manufacturer's procedures summarized in Attachment C by the Monitoring
Subcontractor Field Manager. At the end of the monitoring season, field instruments will
be retrieved, cleaned and stored.
Instrument models specified in the QAPP may be modified, as necessary or desired.
However, the Licensee will notify NCDWQ of its intention to change the instrument
model before a new model is deployed, and review the QAPP for any necessary changes,
and review the QAPP for any necessary changes.
If an instrument is lost, stolen, damaged or not functioning properly, it will be replaced
with a backup instrument as soon as practicable. This information will be recorded in the
appropriate field log book.
If at any time APGI, the Monitoring Subcontractor Field Staff or the Monitoring
Subcontractor Monitoring Field Manager determines conditions in any of the Yadkin
Project tailwaters are unsafe, APGI may at its sole discretion suspend monitoring or
related calibration, data retrieval, and downloading activities until conditions are
determined to be safe. This will be noted in the appropriate field log books. If APGI
determines that it is no longer safe to continue monitoring at a specific location, APGI
will notify NCDWQ. The Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager and Field Staff will
follow APGI's Subcontractor Health and Safety Plan and all applicable safety
requirements required by APGI.
B3 Sample Handling and Custody
Dissolved oxygen and water temperature measurements collected under this QAPP and
the DO Monitoring Plan are recorded by the monitoring instruments in situ and therefore,
no samples are collected, transported or stored.
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B4 Analytical Methods
Dissolved oxygen and water temperature measurements collected under this QAPP and
the DO Monitoring Plan are made in situ and therefore, no samples are analyzed by a
laboratory. Field measurement methods are summarized in Table 4.
Table 4: Field Measurement Method and Reporting Levels
Parameter EPA Method (if applicable) Reported to Nearest...
Dissolved Oxygen 360.1 0.01 mg/L
Water temperature 170.1 0.01 °C
DO and water temperature measurements are made in accordance with the SOPS in
Attachment A. The instruction manual for the in situ instruments should also be
consulted.
B5 Quality Control
Quality control measures for the DO and water temperature field monitoring primarily
include calibration, comparing instrument performance to an independent calibrated
instrument, and servicing of the instruments (see Sections B6 and B7). The in situ field
instruments will be calibrated for DO prior to deployment at the beginning of the
monitoring season. Weekly calibration of the in situ instruments will be in accordance
with the SOPs in Attachment A and the calibrations for each instrument will be recorded
on a calibration form (Attachment D) contained in the field calibration log book.
Moreover, monthly servicing will include replacement of the DO membrane in
accordance with the SOPs in Attachment C. Documentation of the monthly servicing of
each instrument will be recorded in the field calibration log book.
Prior to deployment at the beginning of the monitoring season, the temperature
thermistors will be compared by the Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager to a NIST
certified thermometer as described in detail in Section B7 and recorded on a Temperature
Check Form (Attachment E) contained in the thermistor log book. If the temperature
measurements differ by more than 0.5 degree, then a thermistor will not be deployed.
After deployment, the thermistors will be compared with the NIST certified thermometer
at the end of the monitoring season. Results of this comparison will be recorded on a
Temperature Check Form contained in the thermistor log book. If the temperature
measurements differ by more than 0.5 degree, the Monitoring Subcontractor Field
Manager will make a note on the data QA transmittal form instructing the Data Processor
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to flag water temperature measurements since the last valid weekly temperature check in
the Annual Database. Weekly DO and temperature checks are described below.
Prior to the weekly calibration of each field instrument, independent DO and water
temperature measurements using a comparable YSI 58 meter (calibrated in accordance
with Attachment B and compared to a NIST certified thermometer) will be compared to
measurements of the in situ field instruments made in a bucket of tailrace water (see
Section B7). This comparison will be recorded in the appropriate field log book and used
to determine if there has been drift in the in situ field instrument measurements. If the
independent DO differs by more than 0.5 mg/L or the water temperature measurements
differ by more than 0.5 degree, the DO membrane of the in situ instrument will be
replaced or the probes on the field instrument will be replaced or reconditioned. The
Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager will make a note on the data QA transmittal
form instructing the Data Processor to flag measurements as suspect since the last valid
measurements obtained during the comparison with the YSI 58 meter in the Annual
Database.
B6 Instrument Testing, Inspection, and Maintenance
Testing, inspection and maintenance of the field instruments is the responsibility of the
Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager and Monitoring Subcontractor Field Staff.
Prior to deployment, all instruments are inspected, calibrated, and loaded with new
batteries. Any non-functioning instrument is taken out of service and shipped to the
manufacturer for repair, if necessary. Instruments that are not in the field are maintained
by the Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager or Monitoring Subcontractor Field Staff.
Continuous in situ field instruments will be inspected and cleaned on a weekly basis
during the May through November monitoring period. The instruments will be serviced
on a monthly basis. Monthly servicing includes replacement of the DO membranes and
batteries and the cleaning, inspection and regreasing of o-rings of the sondes in
accordance with the manufacturer's specifications (Attachment C). The SOPs in
Attachments A and C contain detailed information on the maintenance procedures of the
field instruments.
All maintenance and servicing of the instruments will be documented by the Monitoring
Subcontractor Field Manager and Monitoring Subcontractor Field Staff in the field
calibration log book. Copies of relevant instrument maintenance records will be
transferred to the Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager on a monthly basis. If an
instrument appears to be malfunctioning or damaged, the Monitoring Subcontractor Field
Manager will note data for flagging by the Data Processor when it appears to be
obviously erroneous. The Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager will make a note on
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the data QA transmittal of any suspect data with instructions for the Data Processor for
flagging in the Annual Database.
B7 Instrument Calibration and Frequency
The in situ YSI 6920 field instruments will be calibrated in accordance with the
procedures outlined in Attachment A prior to deployment at the beginning of the
monitoring season and weekly, except in extenuating circumstances. Each field
instrument has its own unique number serial number and calibration information is
recorded on calibration forms (Attachment D) contained in the field calibration log book.
Once the instrument is calibrated on a weekly basis, that measurement serves as a
calibration for measurements that are about to be collected and apost-calibration for
measurements that were collected prior to calibration. Any non-functioning instrument is
taken out of service and shipped to the manufacturer for repair, if necessary.
Copies of relevant instrument calibration forms will be transferred to the Monitoring
Subcontractor Field Manager on a monthly basis. If an instrument appears to be
malfunctioning or damaged, the Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager will make a
note on the data QA transmittal of any suspect data with instructions to the Data
Processor for flagging in the Annual Database.
Moreover, a YSI 58 meter will be calibrated prior to weekly use and post-calibrated at the
end of the field day to document any potential instrument drift in accordance with
Attachment B. Calibration information will be recorded on a calibration form
(Attachment D). The YSI 58 meter will also be compared to a NIST certified
thermometer before and after weekly use (at the beginning and end of the field day) and
the results recorded on a Temperature Check form (Attachment E). The YSI 58 meter
will be used for comparison measurements in conjunction with the weekly site visits to
the in situ field instruments. Prior to the weekly calibration of each in situ field
instrument, independent DO and water temperature measurements from a YSI 58 meter
will be compared to measurements of the in situ field instruments made in a bucket of
tailrace water. If the independent DO differs by more than 0.5 mg/L or water
temperature measurements differ by more than 0.5 degree, the DO membrane of the in
situ field instrument will be replaced or the probes on the field instrument will be
replaced or reconditioned and the issue will be recorded in the field log book for that field
instrument. If replacing the DO membrane, servicing the probe, or replacing the probe
does not resolve the problem, the in situ field instrument will be replaced and returned to
the office for further analysis and repair. The Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager
will also make a note on the data QA transmittal form for the Data Processor to flag the
suspect data in the Annual Database and a note on the amount of the difference for
potentially correcting the data.
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The Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager will compare thermistors in the office with
a NIST certified thermometer prior to deployment at the beginning of the monitoring
season and at the end of the monitoring season using atwo-point calibration with high
and low temperatures. Results of this comparison will be recorded on a Temperature
Check Form contained in the thermistor log book. If the temperature measurements
differ by more than 0.5 degree, then a thermistor will not be deployed. After
deployment, the thermistors will be compared with the NIST certified thermometer at the
end of the monitoring season. Results of this comparison will be recorded on a
Temperature Check Form contained in the thermistor log book. If the temperature
measurements differ by more than 0.5 degree, the Monitoring Subcontractor Field
Manager will make a note on the data QA transmittal form instructing the Data Processor
to flag water temperature measurements since the last valid weekly temperature check in
the Annual Database.
B8 Inspection/Acceptance of Supplies
Routine supplies such as DO membranes, electrolyte (KCl), deionized water, and
batteries are purchased from vendors by the Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager.
Supplies and packages are inspected for damage upon receipt from vendors. Any
damaged supplies will be returned to the vendor and not accepted for use. DO
membranes are visually inspected prior to use. Deionized water and the electrolyte are
visually inspected prior to use for discoloration, debris, or other contaminants.
Supplies are stored with both the Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager and
Monitoring Subcontractor Field Staff in waterproof cases indoors under controlled
temperatures. DO probes will be stored in a moist environment when not in use.
B9 Non-direct Measurements
Measurement data not obtained directly under the DO Monitoring Plan and this QAPP,
including hydro plant generating data, reservoir elevation data, National Weather Service
weather data, and U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) gage stream flow data, may be used
for interpretation of continuous DO monitoring data. Data collected by regulatory and
governmental agencies will be used and considered as valid data since these agencies
have independent QA/QC programs to ensure valid data. Yadkin Project discharge and
generation data will be obtained from APGI operations staff.
Data from universities, non-governmental organizations, or industries may be used to
analyze continuous monitoring results depending upon methods, sampling design, and
QA/QC limitations. Citations will be made when such data are used.
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B10 Data Management
The continuous DO and water temperature data are stored on the YSI 6920 instruments
upon measurement. The Monitoring Subcontractor Field Staff or Monitoring
Subcontractor Field Manager will download data from the in situ instruments on a
weekly basis (the Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager will do this on a monthly
basis while the Monitoring Subcontractor Field Staff will download data the other weeks)
to a laptop or hand held device (YSI 650 MDS) as described in Appendix A. Data files
are archived on up to two disks in addition to the hard drive on the laptop. In addition,
the Monitoring Subcontractor Field Staff or Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager
saves all data on each field instrument during the monitoring season in case it is
necessary to retrieve previous data. At the end of the monitoring season, the data files
will be deleted from each of the field instruments as one of the last steps in demobilizing
each of the field instruments.
Once data files are downloaded on a weekly basis, the Monitoring Subcontractor Field
Staff will transfer the files to the Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager. Applicable
calibration forms and maintenance records contained in the field calibration log books
will be transferred to the Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager on a monthly basis.
The Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager will review the data for completeness and
any obvious errors and will instruct the Data Processor to flag suspect data on the data
QA transmittal form. These data files are transferred electronically to the Data Processor
along with a data QA transmittal form weekly. Supporting calibration forms and
maintenance records will be transferred to the Monitoring Subcontractor Project
Manager/QA Manager and Data Processor monthly. The Monitoring Subcontractor Field
Manager will maintain two archived copies of all data files transferred to the Data
Processor, one on disk and the other on the hard drive of a laptop.
Data files are stored for the duration of the project on the Data Processor computer
server, which is backed up electronically on a daily basis. The Data Processor reviews
data files individually, inspecting the beginning and end data points for omissions or
anomalies related to removing the in situ field instruments from the tailwater monitoring
locations for download and servicing. Suspect data are flagged and omitted from
analysis.
The Data Processor processes the data into electronic spreadsheets using the YSI
software interface program, Ecowatch, custom SAS programs, Microsoft Excel software.
A series of SAS macros developed specifically for this study, process the data and
prepare graphical representation of the data. This graphical presentation allows
additional visual inspection to identify issues with the data and allow for immediate
problem identification and resolution, if necessary.
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As the data is reviewed, only the Data Processor or the Monitoring Subcontractor Project
Manager/QA Manager will be able to make any changes to the data. All changes are
documented on the data QA transmittal form.
The Monitoring Subcontractor Project Manager/QA Manager will provide the provisional
data to the APGI Project Manager/QA Manager every two weeks after it is processed and
the Data Processor will update the Annual Database. Only the Data Processor and the
Monitoring Subcontractor Project Manager/QA Manager have access to the database.
The Monitoring Subcontractor Project Manager/QA Manager will provide the APGI
Project Manager/QA Manager with a copy of the final Annual Database at the end of the
field monitoring season. The APGI Project Manager/QA Manager will file a copy of the
Annual Database in electronic format with the project files.
Throughout the entire monitoring season the database is archived daily to ensure no loss
of data and to guarantee database integrity. At the end of the field monitoring season, all
forms, original data, and the database will be archived in electronic format on digital
media; the Data Processor will maintain a copy in a fire-proof vault and the Monitoring
Subcontractor Project Manager/QA Manager will maintain a copy in the project files.
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Figure 7: Data Flow Chart
Data downloaded
weekly
Monitoring
Subcontractor Project
Manager/QA Manager
provides provisional
data to the APGI
Project Manager/QA
Manager every two
weeks
0
Data Processor
finalizes and
incorporates data in
Annual Database

Data downloaded by
Monitoring
Subcontractor Field Staff
are transferred to the
Monitoring
Subcontractor Field
Manager weekly

Monitoring
Subcontractor Field
Manager reviews data
and makes notes on the
data QA transmittal form
instructing the Data
Processor to flag suspect
data
0
Data processed and
reviewed by Data
Processor and
Monitoring
Subcontractor Project
Manager/QA Manager

Monitoring Subcontractor
Project Manager/QA
Manager provides copy of
final Annual Database to
APGI Project Manager/QA
Manager at end of
monitoring season for project
files
Monitoring
Subcontractor Field
Manager transfers data
and data QA
transmittal form to
Data Processor weekly
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Cl Assessments and Response Actions
The Monitoring Subcontractor Project Manager/QA Manager, or a qualified QA/QC
auditor appointed by the Monitoring Subcontractor Project Manager/QA Manager, will
perform an annual (after the field monitoring season) internal self-assessment of the QA
program to ensure the QA/QC records are complete and accountable. The Monitoring
Subcontractor Project Manager/QA Manager is independent of the data collection
process. The self-assessment results will be documented and provided to the APGI
Project Manager/QA Manager for the project QA/QC files. Any corrective actions, as
required, will be implemented and documented.
The APGI Project Manager/QA Manager provides additional oversight through the
review of the QA/QC records generated for the continuous DO and water temperature
monitoring. The APGI Project Manager/QA Manager will review and verify field data
collection, data processing and data file submittals; submittal of QA records to the
QA/QC file; corrections or revisions to data files and any subsequent documentation in
the QA/QC file; and self-assessment results.
Moreover, the Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager will accompany and observe
Monitoring Subcontractor Field Staff monthly. This field assessment is to ensure that
Monitoring Subcontractor Field Staff are performing activities in accordance with this
QAPP and the associated SOPS and to determine if there are any other issues that need to
be addressed. Concerns or irregularities will be documented and procedures will be
reviewed with any Monitoring Subcontractor Field Staff in need of performance
improvement.
C2 Reports to Management
The Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager reports significant issues to the Monitoring
Subcontractor Project Manager/QA Manager via email. Issues are then reported to the
APGI Project Manager/QA Manager as part of the reports accompanying data submittals.
The APGI Project Manager/QA Manager will receive reports from the annual internal
self-assessment of the QA program, and copies of all QA documentation, including field
log books and calibration forms. The APGI Project Manager/QA Manager is responsible
for maintaining these records in the continuous DO and water temperature monitoring
QA/QC file.
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D1 Data Review, Verification, and Validation
Continuous DO and water temperature data are accepted or flagged as suspect based on
instrument performance and calibrations. Instruments are calibrated for DO and
compared to a calibration table to ensure accurate DO measurements. Any questionable
instrument is replaced by a backup instrument, as soon as practical, until the issue can be
corrected. In some cases, replacement of the DO membrane or a probe may correct the
issue. As described in Sections B6 and B7, if an instrument appears to be malfunctioning
or damaged, the Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager will make a note on the data
QA transmittal form instructing the Data Processor to flag data, and not include that data
in reports when it appears to be obviously erroneous. The DO and water temperature
data are reviewed by the Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager for anomalies prior to
transfer to the Data Processor. The Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager will make
notes on the data QA transmittal form instructing the Data Processor to flag suspect data
based upon instrument performance and professional judgment.
Once the data have been processed by the Data Processor, the DO and water temperature
data are reviewed by the Monitoring Subcontractor Project Manager/QA Manager and
the Data Processor as described in further detail in Section D2. Any changes or flagged
data will be documented on the data QA transmittal form. The Monitoring Subcontractor
Project Manager/QA Manager is responsible for final review, verification and validation
of all monitoring results prior to submittal to the APGI Project Manager/QA Manager.
Data QA transmittal forms documenting data flagging situations and rejections of data for
reporting will also be provided to the APGI Project Manager/QA Manager along with
data submittals for the QA/QC file.
D2 Verification and Validation Methods
As described in further detail in Section B 10, continuous DO and water temperature
monitoring data are downloaded in the field from the in situ instruments to a laptop or
hand held device (YSI 650 MDS). The Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager will
review data for completeness and any obvious errors prior to transfer to the Data
Processor. The DO and water temperature data are reviewed by the Monitoring
Subcontractor Field Manager for anomalies prior to transfer to the Data Processor and the
Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager will make a note on the data QA transmittal
form to the Data Processor on whether to flag data as suspect based upon instrument
performance and professional judgment.
The Data Processor also reviews data files individually, inspecting for data omissions or
anomalies.
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The Data Processor processes the data into electronic spreadsheets using an YSI software
interface program (Ecowatch). Data continue to be inspected for completeness and
accuracy via the use of custom programs in SAS and Microsoft Excel. A series of
macros developed specifically for this study process the data, and prepare graphical
representation of the data. Additional visual inspections may identify issues with the data
and allow for immediate problem identification and resolution, if necessary.
In preparation for the annual reporting of continuous DO and water temperature
monitoring, the SAS software analysis allows opportunity for identification of areas of
concern and permits immediate resolution of data anomalies. Additional tools, such as
Microsoft Excel, afford further analysis and data presentation capabilities.
Once the data have been processed by the Data Processor, the DO and water temperature
data are reviewed by the Monitoring Subcontractor Project Manager/QA Manager and
the Data Processor. The DO and temperature data will be plotted every two weeks and
reviewed for unusual values of DO and temperature, as well as any period where water
quality standards was not met. If unusual values or periods of DO or temperature are
found, the Monitoring Subcontractor Project Manager/QA Manager will check for notes
by the Monitoring Subcontractor Field Manager regarding the data quality, review
watershed conditions during monitoring, e.g., storm events, and then check for possible
effects of Project operations affecting readings.
Any changes, flagged data, or deletions of data from reporting will be documented by the
Data Processor or Monitoring Subcontractor Project Manager/QA Manager on the data
QA transmittal form. Data QA transmittal forms documenting non-reporting, corrections
to the data based on calibration records, or suspect data will also be provided to the APGI
Project Manager/QA Manager along with data submittals for the QA/QC file. Once the
data are finalized, the data files will be incorporated into the Annual Database and any
accompanying documentation will be incorporated into QA/QC file for the continuous
DO and water temperature monitoring.
D3 Reconciliation with User Requirements
The continuous DO and water temperature monitoring data will be used for an
assessment of changes to tailwater DO concentrations that occur as aeration equipment is
installed and DO enhancement measures undertaken at the Yadkin Project in accordance
with the conditions of the 401 Water Quality Certification issued by NCDWQ for the
Project.
The DO and temperature data will be plotted every two weeks and reviewed for unusual
values of DO and temperature, as well as any period where water quality standards was
not met. If unusual values or periods of DO or temperature are found, the Monitoring
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Subcontractor Project Manager/QA Manager will check for notes by the Monitoring
Subcontractor Field Manager regarding the data quality, review watershed conditions
during monitoring, e.g., storm events, and then check for possible effects of Project
operations affecting readings.
As described in Section A6 and the DO Monitoring Plan, data will be reviewed at the end
of the monitoring season and provided to NCDWQ, Progress Energy and FERC in an
annual report. Any data limitations will be documented in the report. Any sampling
design modifications considered for future annual monitoring will be done in consultation
with NCDWQ.
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Attachment A: Standard Operating Procedures for In Situ
Field Instrument Maintenance/Calibration and Data
Downloads
Alcoa Power Generating Inc. May 2007
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YADKIN HYDROELECTRIC PROJECT
SOP for WEEKLY DOWNLOADS OF YSI 6920 Sondes
A. Post-Calibration of YSI 6920 prior to weekly download of data.
1. Approach each buoy or pipe.
2. Place buoy on the boat, unlock the cap on the pipe and remove cap and
YSI 6920 Sonde from the pipe. Record the time of Sonde removal from
the water using the clock on the YSI 650.
3. Tie off the Sonde.
4. Connect the 650MDS to the sonde using the cable and turn the unit "on"
5. Select "Sonde Menu" using the arrow buttons and enter.
6. Select "Run" and enter
7. Select "Unattended Sample" and enter
8. Using arrow button, scroll down to bottom of the page to highlight "Stop
Logging" and enter. (If the instrument asks you "are you sure", select
"yes" and enter)
9. Use the "Esc" to escape back to the main menu and then turn off the
650MDS
10. Fill a 5 gallon bucket with tailrace water.
11. Place the Sonde and the probe for the YSI 58 meter in the bucket.
12. Record DO and water temperature readings from both meters in the field
log book, while gently swirling water in the bucket. If differences are
more than 0.5 mg/L for DO and 0.5 degree for water temperature, make a
note to the Data Processor to flag the data as suspect for further review.
Additionally, differences more than the criteria noted here require that at a
minimum the DO membrane will need to be changed.
B. Weekly Maintenance and Calibration
1. Remove the lock and ring of the YSI 6920 Sonde.
2. Clean the YSI 6920 Sonde and inspect buoy cable attachment points.
3. Clean lock and ring and spray with WD40.
4. Rinse probes 3 time with water. Water can be lake, tap, or deionized
water.
5. Dry (dab) off dissolved oxygen probe and place in calibration cup with
just a little bit of water at the bottom of the cup. Put the cup back on the
YSI 6920 Sonde with just a couple of turns. This will allow the air in the
cup to saturate with water.
6. Let the YSI 6920 Sonde sit for 10 minutes.
7. After 10 minutes, connect the handheld YSI 650MDS to the YSI 6920
Sonde using the download cable and turn on the YSI 650MDS.
8. Using the arrow buttons to select "sonde run", press "Enter" button. This
is an enter button just like a computer has.
9. Record the DO (%) and temperature in the field calibration log book.
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10. Hit "Esc" to back to the main menu.
11. Using the arrow keys, select "sonde menu" and hit "Enter" button.
12. Select "calibrate" and hit "Enter" button
13. Select "dissolved oxygen" and press "Enter" button.
14. Select "DO %" and again hit the "Enter" button.
15. Enter the correct barometric pressure reading and press "Enter", IF the
reading is close to the one in the lower right corner (less than 0.2mmHg of
a difference), hit "Enter". If the barometric pressure differs by more than
0.2mmHg use the arrows to enter the correct barometric pressure. Note,
barometric pressure changes are normal since it is not totally stable and
especially since the instrument is recording down to the tenths of a
millimeter of Hg.
16. The YSI 650MDS will count down and display the calibrated reading.
Record the calibrated reading in the field calibration log book.
17. Use the escape (Esc) key to go backwards and get into the "sonde menu"
and select "run"
18. Select "unattended sample"
19. Use the arrow to move down to file and enter the proper file name. (The
file name will be the first letter of the tailrace; F=Falls, N=Narrows,
T=Tuckertown, H=High Rock and the 6 digit date - mo/day/year). Then,
hit enter key to make sure meter accepts the file name.
20. Record the new file you started under the date in the field log book.
C. Pre-Data Collection Calibration
1. Check battery voltage, time etc. Record battery voltage in field calibration
log book. Batteries are changed on a monthly basis along with the DO
membrane. If battery voltage is below 8.0, change the batteries.
2. Fill a 5 gallon bucket with fresh tailrace water.
3. Place the YSI 6920 Sonde and the probe for the YSI 58 meter in the
bucket.
4. Record DO and water temperature readings, while gently swirling water in
the bucket, from both meters in the field log book
5. If the difference in DO is more than 0.5 mg/L between meters or the water
temperature is more than 0.5 degree difference between meters, then re-
perform this check with fresh tailrace water; remember to swirl the water
in the bucket.
6. If differences in readings remain higher than 0.5 mg/L or 0.5 degree,
replace the DO membrane or the probe.
7. If large differences in readings exist after replacing the DO membrane,
then recondition the probe using the reconditioning instructions and if that
does not work replace the YSI 6920 Sonde probe(s).
8. If replacing the probe does not resolve the issue, replace the YSI 6920
Sonde with a backup unit and take the problem Sonde to the office for
further analysis and repair.
D. Re-starting Data Collection
1. Once the Sonde readings are comparable to the YSI 58, the Sonde may be
re-installed.
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2. Using arrow move down to "start logging" and push enter key
3. The meter will ask you if you are sure and select "yes" using enter key
4. Use escape key to go back to main menu
5. Unhook cable from Sonde and place cap back on and re-tape the small
bulkhead cap that allows communication from 650MDS/computer to the
sonde. Taping is a redundant way to protect the prongs inside the
bulkhead.
6. Re-attach the YSI 6920 Sonde to the buoy using the lock and ring, and
place the buoy back in the water. Record the time you reset the YSI 6920
in the filed log book. Sonde using the clock on the YSI 650MDS.
E. Daily Post-Calibration Check of the handheld YSI 58
1. At the end of the day, or back at the office after a day trip, compare water
temperature readings of the YSI 58 against a NIST thermometer. Record
the readings on the Temperature Check form for that unit. If the
difference exceeds more than 0.5 degree at either the high or low check
points, then make a note to the Data Processor on the data QA transmittal
form.
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Attachment B: Standard Operating Procedures for Calibrating
YSI 58 Meters used for Comparison with In Situ Field
Instruments
Alcoa Power Generating Inc. May 2007
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CALIBRATING DISSOLVED OXYGEN METER
Meter Used to Compare Data Point at Retrieval of Sonde
(This should be done before and after sampling)
1. Rinse off membrane and dry off with kim wipe.
2. Insert probe into cup and let sit for 15 minutes (make sure towel at bottom of cup is
moist)
3. While waiting for 15 minutes to elapse, turn on machine and "zero" using zero knob -
you can leave the instrument on after this has been done.
4. After 15 minutes has elapsed, turn knob to "temp" and record temperature on the
calibration form for the corresponding YSI 58 meter contained in the field calibration
log book along with your initials, date, and the barometric pressure from the 650MDS
5. Turn the knob to O.Olmg/L and get a reading. Place this reading in "Uncalibrated
Reading" column of the calibration form
6. Using the barometric pressure, find the correct dissolved oxygen reading on the back
of the meter and record in "Calibrated Reading" column of the calibration form
7. Unlock the 02 knob and dial in the correct value then lock the button
9. Turn off meter.
Note -This instrument is to be used for comparing against long term monitors (sonde) in
each tailrace for dissolved oxygen and temperature.
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Attachment C: Procedures for Replacing a Dissolved Oxygen
Membrane on In Situ Field Instruments
Alcoa Power Generating Inc. May 2007
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Procedures for Replacing a Dissolved Oxygen Membrane on the
YSI 6920s
1. Remove the probe guard from the sonde and hold it in a vertical position such that
the sensors are upright.
2. Remove o-ring and old DO membrane and then clean probe tip with water and
lens cleaning tissue.
3. Remove any debris/deposits from the o-ring groove.
4. Using the supplied bottle of electrolyte (KCl), place electrolyte on the DO probe
until a high meniscus is formed.
5. Position the membrane parallel to the probe making sure all corners are
supported. Using one continuous downward motion, stretch the membrane over
the probe face.
6. Install o-ring by placing one side of the o-ring in the groove and rolling into place
across the membrane and into the groove on the opposite side of the probe face.
Avoid touching the probe face with your fingers. Make sure o-ring is securely in
place by squeezing it every 90 degrees to equalize the tension.
7. Trim the excess membrane away with a scalpel or scissors making sure to stay 1/8
inch below the o-ring.
8. The finished product should have no bubbles or wrinkles.
9. Record the time and date of DO membrane replacement in the maintenance
records section of the field calibration log book.
Alcoa Power Generating Inc. May 2007
Yadkin Project (FERC No. 2197) Page C-2
Tailwater DO Monitoring Draft QAPP

Attachment D: DO Calibration Form
Alcoa Power Generating Inc. May 2007
Yadkin Project (FERC No. 2197) Page D-1
Tailwater DO Monitoring Draft QAPP

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Attachment E: Temperature Check Form
Alcoa Power Generating Inc. May 2007
Yadkin Project (FERC No. 2197) Page E-1
Tailwater DO Monitoring Draft QAPP

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Appendix B
Summary of Consultation
Yadkin Project Draft Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring Plan
FERC No. 2197 May 2007

Appendix C
Consultation Record
Yadkin Project Draft Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring Plan
FERC No. 2197 May 2007

Appendix D
Comments Received on Draft Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring Plan
and APGI's Responses
Yadkin Project Draft Dissolved Oxygen Monitoring Plan
FERC No. 2197 May 2007