McDowell Co. - Mackey Creek

Division of Water Quality
Environmental Sciences Branch
Biological Assessment Unit-rr
October 25, 2002
MEMORANDUM
To: Jimmie Overton
F
A
OCT 3 p 2VI
From: Trish MacPherson
Bryn H. Tracy
Subject: Fish Community and Benthic Macroinvertebrate Assessment of Mackey Creek Below the
Discontinued Discharge from Metal Industries, Inc. (McDowell County, Catawba River
Basin, Subbasin 30, NPDES Permit No. NC0057819)
INTRODUCTION
On March 25, 1998, biological monitoring was conducted at two sites on Mackey Creek, McDowell
County, (Stream Classification Index No. 11-15-(3.5)), to investigate the impacts of a discharge from
Metal Industries, Inc. Only two white suckers were collected below the discharge and the fish community
was rated Poor; this contrasted to the diverse community above the discharge which was rated Good.
Benthic m acroi nve rteb rates rated the stream Good above the discharge and Fair below (BAU 980415).
In July 2000, the 0.01 MGD discharge from the metal plating facility was discontinued and the permit was
rescinded in June 2001. As part of the 2002 Catawba River Basinwide Monitoring Program and as
requested by the Asheville Regional Office, the fish and benthos communities were resampled to
determine if there was any recovery following the discontinuance of the discharge. This memorandum
summarizes the results from this monitoring.
SITE DESCRIPTION
Mackey Creek is a Class C tributary to the upper Catawba River and enters the Catawba River
approximately 0.8 miles below the US 70 bridge crossing (Figure 1). The primarily forested watershed is
in the Eastern Blue Ridge Foothills ecoregion; for fish community and benthos assessment purposes, the
stream is considered to be in the mountains. The drainage area of the watershed is 7.7 square miles at
the US 70 bridge crossing. At this site, there is still a discharge pipe which carries well water for a
geothermal heat pump condenser for the refrigerating units from a nearby service station. This
noncontact cooling water discharge enters the stream from a small pipe on the west bank and mixes
immediately with water flowing over a concrete dam -like structure (Figure 2). The effluent is completely
mixed with the receiving stream within a short distance below its discharge. A benthos sample was also
collected at an upstream site at SR 1453.
FISH METHODS
A distance of 600 ft. below the US 70 bridge (beginning about 150 ft. below the dam) was sampled on
April 29, 2002 following all methods (including physical -chemical and habitat assessments) in the existing
North Carolina Index of Biotic Integrity (NCIBI) protocols (NCDENR 2001 a). The fish within the
delineated stretch were collected using two backpack electrofishing units with each unit accompanied by
one person netting fish. A seine was also used to effectively sample the boulder and cobble riffles. After
collection, all readily identifiable fish were examined for sores, lesions, fin damage, and skeletal
anomalies, measured (total length to the nearest 1 mm), and then released. Once the first 50 specimens
of each species were measured, the remaining fish of each particular species were just counted and then
also released. Those fish that were not readily identifiable in the field were preserved in 10% formalin
and returned to the laboratory for identification, examination, and total length measurement. These fish
were then deposited as voucher specimens with the North Carolina State Museum of Natural Science in
Raleigh.

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Figure 1. Sampling sites below US 70 (fish and benthic macroinvertebrates) and above at SR
1453 (benthic macro invertebrates only) on Mackey Creek, McDowell County.
Figure 2. Upstream view of Mackey Creek below US 70,McDowell County (A) and location
and size of noncontact cooling water discharge from nearby service station (B),
April 29, 2002.
2

BENTHOS METHODS
Benthic macroinvertebrates were collected using the NC DWQ's standard qualitative (Full Scale) method
at Mackey Creek below US 70 and using the EPT method at SR 1453. The standard qualitative sampling
procedure is comprised of 10 composite samples, and includes 2 kicks, 3 sweeps, 1 leaf pack, 2 rock/ log
washes, 1 sand sample, and visual collections. The EPT method consists of 1 kick, 1 sweep, 1 leaf pack,
and visuals (NCDENR 2001 b). The purpose of these collections is to inventory the aquatic fauna and
produce an indication of the relative abundance for each taxon. Organisms are classified as Rare (1-2
specimens, "R"), Common (3-9 specimens, "C"), or Abundant (z 10 specimens, "A" ).
Several data summaries (metrics) can be produced from benthos samples to detect water quality
problems. These metrics are based on the idea that unstressed streams and rivers have many
invertebrate taxa and are dominated by intolerant species. Conversely, polluted streams have fewer
numbers of invertebrate taxa and are dominated by tolerant species. The diversity of the fauna is
evaluated using taxa richness counts; the tolerance of the community is evaluated using a biotic index.
EPT taxa richness (EPT S) criteria have been developed by DWQ to assign water quality ratings
(bioclassifications) for Full Scale and EPT samples. "EPT" is an abbreviation for Ephemeroptera +
Plecoptera + Trichoptera, insect groups that are generally intolerant of many kinds of pollution. Higher
EPT taxa richness values usually indicate better water quality. Bioclassifications for Full Scale samples
are also based on the relative tolerance of the macroinvertebrate community as summarized by the North
Carolina Biotic Index (NCBI). Both tolerance values for individual species and the final biotic index•values
have a range of 0-10, with higher numbers indicating more tolerant species or more polluted conditions.
EPT abundance (EPT N) and total taxa richness calculations also are used to help examine between -site
differences in water quality.
A Not Impaired rating is given if a stream is less than four meters wide and would receive a
bioclassification of Good -Fair or better using DWQ EPT criteria developed for larger streams, if the
stream is not in an undisturbed mountain watershed.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
FISH
On April 29, 2002, the flow in Mackey Creek (based upon the USGS gauge at the Catawba River near
Pleasant Gardens (SR 1221, McDowell County) was approximately 40% of the median flow (historical
median flow -275 cfs, actual flow �_-113 cfs). On March 25, 1998, the flow was approximately 100% of the
historical mean flow (historical monthly mean flow = 371 cfs, actual flow = 375 cfs). Much of the state in
2002 was in a severe to exceptional drought that had started in 1998. Instream and riparian habitats
were of high quality in 2002 and in 1998 (habitat scores = 87 and 81, respectively) (Table 1). Colder
water temperatures in 1998 than in 2002 accounted for the slight differences in dissolved oxygen
concentrations and saturations; specific conductance and pH were similar for both dates (Table 2).
Table 1. Habitat assessment scores at Mackey. Creek at US 70, McDowell County, March 25,
1998 and April 29, 2002.
Habitat characteristic
Sample Date
March 25, 1998 Aril 29, 2002
Possible score
Channel modification
5 4
5
Instream habitat
18 18
20
Bottom substrate
15 12
15
Pool variety
6 8
10
Riffle habitats
16 16
16
Bank stability and vegetation
Left bank
3 6
7
Right bank
3 6
7
Light penetration
7 9
10
Riparian vegetative zone width
Left bank
3 3
5
Right bank
5 5
5
Total habitat score
81 87
100
3

Table 2. Physical and water quality characteristics for Mackey Creek at US 70 below Metal
Industries, Inc., McDowell County, March 25, 1998 and April 29, 2002.
Sample Date
Physical and Water Quality Characteristic
March 25, 1998
Aril 29, 2002
Temperature (°C)
8.0
16.3
Dissolved oxygen (mg/L)
11.9
8.5
Dissolved oxygen saturation (%)
101
87
Specific conductance (pmhos/cm)
17
22
pH (standard units) -
6.3
6.9
Water clarity
Clear
Clear
Seventeen species of fish were collected on April 29, 2002; only one species was collected on March 23,
1998 (Table 3). The most abundant species in this diverse community were the central stoneroller and
the greenhead shiner. A majority of the species were represented by multiple age groups and there was
no incidence of disease. The community was rated Good, NCIBI = 52 (Table 4). Although central
stonerollers were fairly abundant and the trophic structure slightly skewed towards omnivores and
herbivores (both indicative of some slight enrichment from upstream nonpoint sources), the fish
community has recovered quickly from the toxic metals discharge. The fish community and its
components are now typical of those found in mountain and foothills streams in the upper Catawba River
basin.
Table 3. Scientific and common names, tolerance ratings, adult trophic guild assignments,
and abundance of the individual species collected from Mackey Creek at US 70
below Metal Industries, Inc., McDowell County, March 25, 1998 and April 29, 2002.
Family/Species
Common Name
Tolerance
Rating
Adult
Tro hic Status
Sample Date
March 25, April 29,
1998 2002
Cyprinidae
Minnows
Campostoma anomalum
Central stoneroller
Intermediate
Herbivore
236
Clinostomus funduloides
Rosyside dace
Intermediate
Insectivore
26
Luxilus coccogenis
White shiner
Intermediate
Insectivore
65
Nocomis leptocephalus
Bluehead chub
Intermediate
Omnivore
79
Notropis chlorocephalus
Greenhead shiner
Intermediate
Insectivore
164
N. scepticus
Sandbar shiner
Intermediate
Insectivore
7
Catostomidae
Suckers
Catostomus commersoni
White sucker
Tolerant
Omnivore
2 5
Hypentilium nigricans
Northern hogsucker
Intermediate
Insectivore
23
Scartomyzon rupiscartes
Striped jumprock
Intermediate
Insectivore
11
Ictaluridae
Catfishes
Noturus insignis
Margined madtom
Intermediate
Insectivore
17
Centrarchidae
Sunfishes and Bass
Lepomis auritus
Redbreast sunfish
Tolerant
Insectivore
7
Micropterus salmoides
Largemouth bass
Intermediate
Piscivore
1
Percidae
Darters and Perches
Etheostoma flabellare
Fantail darter
Intermediate
Insectivore
6
E. olmstedi
Tessellated darter
Intermediate
Insectivore
11
E. thalassinum
Seagreen darter
Intolerant
Insectivore
2
Perca flavescens
Yellow perch
Intermediate
Piscivore
14
Percina crassa
Piedmont darter
Intolerant
Insectivore
7
4

Table 4. North Carolina Index of Biotic Integrity values and scores for Mackey Creek at US
70 below Metal Industries, Inc., McDowell County, March 25, 1998 and April 29,
2002.
Metric Value (metric score within parentheses)
March 25, 1998
April 29, 2002
Number of Species
1(1)
17 (5)
Number of Fish
2 (1)
681 (5)
Number of Species of Darters
0 (1)
4 (5)
Number of Species of Sunfish, Bass, and Trout
0 (1)
2 (3)
Number of Species of Suckers
1 (3)
3 (5)
Number of Intolerant Species
0 (1)
2 (3)
Percentage of Tolerants Fish
100 (1)
2 (5)
Percentage of Omnivores + Herbivores
100 (1)
47 (3)
Percentage of Insectivores
0 (1)
51 (3)
Percentage of Piscivores
0 (1)
2.2(5)
Percentage of Diseased fish
0.0(5)
0.0(5)
Percentage of Species with Multiple Age Groups
0 (1)
88 (5)
Total North Carolina Index of Biotic Integrity Score 18 52
North Carolina Index of Biotic Integrity Class Poor Good
BENTHOS
Results of the benthos sampling and a complete taxa list are given in Table 5 and Appendix 1. The
benthic macroinvertebrate community also showed a marked improvement following removal of the
.discharge. Different sampling techniques were used in 1998 and 2002, so direct comparisons of taxa
richness values cannot be made. However, the bioclassification improved from Fair in 1998 to Good in
2002, as was found above the, discharge in 1998. EPT taxa richness doubled from 15 to 30. This
increase was not attributable to the sampling method. Intolerant or long-lived taxa such as the stoneflies,
Acroneuria abnormis and Paragnetina immarginata, and mayflies, Epeorus rubidus and Leucrocuta, were
abundant, and were absent of rare in 1998. Water levels during the August benthos sampling were much
lower than during the fish sampling in spring. The reduced flow may have had some effect on the
benthos.
The higher gradient, upstream site at SR 1453 was only three meters wide, probably due to the drought
conditions, so it was not assigned a bioclassification. It was considered Not Impaired because a rating of
Good -Fair would be given, based on the EPT taxa richness value of 23, if it were a larger stream. This
site had an Excellent rating in 1992 and a Good rating in 1997. The low water levels reduced the edge
habitat available.' A layer of silt over the rocks was noted, as well as accumulations of sand in slow areas.
[Note: The source of sediment has been identified as originating from land disturbing activities on
property on Guy Road near the mouth of Knife Branch, a small tributary to Mackey Creek. The land
quality violations have lead to enforcement actions against the property owner.]

Table 5. Summary of benthos sampling results for two sites on Mackey Creek, McDowell
County, August 2002.
Sample Site and Date
Below US 70, August 06, 2002 SR 1453, August 08, 2002
COMMUNITY
Ephemeroptera
17
11
Plecoptera
4
5
Trichoptera
9
7
Coleoptera
6
Odonata
5
Megaloptera
3
Diptera: Chironomidae
18
Misc. Diptera
0
Oligochaeta
2
Crustacea
1
Mollusca
2
Other
0
Total Taxa Richness
67
EPT Richness
30
28
EPT Abundance
169
134
Biotic Index
4.25
--
Bioclassification
Good
Not Impaired
Sample Type
Full Scale
EPT
HABITAT
Stream Width (m)
6
3
Depth -Average (m)
0.1
0.1
Canopy (%)
80
30
Substrate (%)
Boulder
35
0
Rubble
35
0
Gravel
10
10
Sand
20
80
Silt
0
10
Habitat Score
77
79
CHEMISTRY
Temperature (°C)
25
22
Dissolved oxygen (mg/L)
7.2
7.5
Specific conductance (pmhos/cm)
43
30
H standard units
---
---
REFERENCES
BAU. 1998. Biological monitoring of Mackey Creek at US 70 and SR 1413, McDowell County, above
and below the Metal Industries, Inc. discharge, March 25, 1998. Memorandum. Biological
Assessment Unit. North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources. Division
of Water Quality. Water Quality Section. Environmental Sciences Branch. Raleigh, NC.
NCDENR. 2001a. Standard operating procedure. Biological monitoring. Stream fish community
assessment and fish tissue. Ibid.
. 2001 b. Standard operating procedures for benthic macroinvertebrates. Ibid.
c: LaWFmst (Asheville Regional Office)
Darlene Kucken (Basinwide and Estuary Planning Unit)
Winthrop Taylor (District 8, North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission)
Forrest Westall (Asheville Regional Office)
N.

Appendix 1. Benthic macroinvertebrate taxa list, Mackey Creek, McDowell County, August 2002.
Sample Site and Date
Below US 70, August 06, 2002 SR 1453, August 08, 2002
Sample Type
Full Scale
EPT
Taxon
EPHEMEROPTERA
Acentrella sp
C
C
Baetis flavistriga
A
A
Baetis intercalaris
A
C
Baetis pluto
R
A
Baetis propinquus
R
Caenis spp
C
Centroptilum spp
R
Epeorus rubidus
A
A
Eurylophella spp
R
Heptagenia marginalis
C
R
Isonychia spp
A
A
Leucrocuta spp
A
A
Paraleptophlebia spp
R
Procloeon spp
R
Stenonema ithaca
A
C
Stenonema modestum
A
A
Serratella deficiens
C
Stenacron pallidum
A
PLECOPTERA
Acroneuria abnormis
A
'A
Leuctra spp
A
C
Paragnetina immarginata
A
'C
Pteronarcys spp
R
Tallaperla spp
C
A
TRICHOPTERA
Cheumatopsyche spp
A
A
Chimarra spp
C
R
Dolophilodes spp
A
Glossosoma spp
R
Hydropsyche betteni
C
Lype diversa
R
Neophylax oligius
A
C
Polycentropus spp
C
Rhyacophila fuscula
C
R
Symphitopsyche sparna
C
A
Triaenodes ignitus
C
COLEOPTERA
Helichus sp
R
Macronychus glabratus
R
Optioservus spp
R
Promoresia spp
R
Psephenus herricki
A
Stenelmis spp
R
ODONATA
Argia spp
C
Boyena vinosa
R
Calopteryx spp
C
Gomphus spp
C
Stylogomphus albistylus
C
MEGALOPTERA
Corydalus comutus
C
Nigronia serricomis
C
Sialis spp
R
M

. �a
Appendix 1 (continued).
Sample Site and Date
Below US 70, August 06, 2002 SR 1453, August 08, 2002
Sample Type
Full Scale EPT
Taxon
DIPTERA: CHIRONOMIDAE
Ablabesmyia annulata
R
Ablabesmyia mallochi
C
Cricotopus varipes gr: c% sp 6
C
Cladotanytarsus spp
C
Conchapelopia group
R
Corynoneura spp
R
Cryptochironomus fulvus
R
Microtendipes sp 1
C
Nilotanypus spp
R
Polypedilum fallax
R
Polypedilum illinoense
R
Polypedilum scalaenum
C
Phaenopsectra spp
C
Proctadius spp
R
Stenochironomus spp
R
Stictochironomus spp
C
Tanytarsus spp
C
Thienemaniella spp
R
MISC. DIPTERA
Anopheles spp
R
Empididae
R
CRUSTACEA
Cambaridae
R
GASTROPODA
Elimia sp
A
Ferrissia spp
C

Division of Water Quality
Environmental Sciences Branch
Biological Assessment Unit
October 25, 2002
MEMORANDUM 29
OCR 3
To: Jimmie Overton �q ER . UALIiY SEC ION
Awal WEE REGION
From: Trish MacPherson_
Bryn H. Tracy Q>k'r�
Subject: Fish Community and Benthic Macroinvertebrate Assessment of Mackey Creek Below the
Discontinued Discharge from Metal Industries, Inc. (McDowell County, Catawba River
Basin, Subbasin 30, NPDES Permit No. NC0057819)
INTRODUCTION
On March 25, 1998, biological monitoring was conducted at two sites on Mackey Creek, McDowell
County, (Stream Classification Index No. 11-15-(3.5)), to investigate the impacts of a discharge from
Metal Industries, Inc. Only two white suckers were collected below the discharge and the fish community
was rated Poor; this contrasted to the diverse community above the discharge which was rated Good.
Benthic m acroi nverteb rates rated the stream Good above the discharge and Fair below (BAU 980415).
In July 2000, the 0.01 MGD discharge from the metal plating facility was discontinued and the permit was
rescinded in June 2001. As part of the 2002 Catawba River Basinwide Monitoring Program and as
requested by the Asheville Regional Office, the fish and benthos communities were resampled to
determine if there was any recovery following the discontinuance of the discharge. This memorandum
summarizes the results from this monitoring.
SITE DESCRIPTION
Mackey Creek is a Class C tributary to the upper Catawba River and enters the Catawba River
approximately 0.8 miles below the US 70 bridge crossing (Figure 1). The primarily forested watershed is
in the Eastern Blue Ridge Foothills ecoregion; for fish community and benthos assessment purposes, the
stream is considered to be in the mountains. The drainage area of the watershed is 7.7 square miles at
the US 70 bridge crossing. At this site, there is still a discharge pipe which carries well water for a
geothermal heat pump condenser for the refrigerating units from a nearby service station. This
noncontact cooling water discharge enters the stream from a small pipe on the west bank and mixes
immediately with water flowing over a concrete dam -like structure (Figure- 2). The effluent is completely
mixed with the receiving stream within a short distance below its discharge. A benthos sample was also
collected at an upstream site at SR 1453.
FISH METHODS
A distance of 600 ft. below the US 70 bridge (beginning about 150 ft. below the dam) was sampled on
April 29, 2002 following all methods (including physical -chemical and habitat assessments) in the existing
North Carolina index of Biotic Integrity INCOI) protocols (NCDENR 2001a). Thle fish v.,ithin the
delineated stretch were collected using two backpack electrofishing units with each unit accompanied by
one person netting fish. - A seine was also used to effectively sample the boulder and cobble riffles. After
collection, all readily identifiable fish were examined for sores, lesions, fin damage, and skeletal
anomalies, measured (total length to the nearest 1 mm), and then released. Once the first 50 specimens
of each species were measured, the remaining fish of each particular species were just counted and then
also released. Those fish that were not readily identifiable in the field were preserved in 10% formalin
and returned to the laboratory for identification, examination, and total length measurement. These fish
were then deposited as voucher specimens with the North Carolina State Museum of Natural Science in
Raleigh.

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Figure 1. Sampling sites below US 70 (fish and benthic macro! nverteb rates) and above at SR
1453 (benthic macroinvertebrates only) on Mackey Creek, McDowell County.
Figure 2. Upstream view of Mackey Creek below US 70,McDowell County (A) and location
and size of noncontact cooling water discharge from nearby service station (B),
April 29, 2002.
rrncr-

BENTHOS METHODS
Benthic macroinvertebrates were collected using the NC DWQ's standard qualitative (Full Scale) method
at Mackey Creek below US 70 and using the EPT method at SR 1453. The standard qualitative sampling
procedure is comprised of 10 composite samples, and includes 2 kicks, 3 sweeps, 1 leaf pack, 2 rock/ log
washes, 1 sand sample, and visual collections. The EPT method consists of 1 kick, 1 sweep, 1 leaf pack,
and visuals (NCDENR 2001 b). The purpose of these collections is to inventory the aquatic fauna and
produce an indication of the relative abundance for each taxon. Organisms are classified as Rare (1-2
specimens, "R"), Common (3-9 specimens, "C"), or Abundant (>_ 10 specimens, "A").'
Several data summaries (metrics) can be produced from benthos samples to detect water quality
problems. These metrics are based on the idea that unstressed streams and rivers have many
invertebrate taxa and are dominated by intolerant species. Conversely, polluted streams have fewer
numbers of invertebrate taxa and are dominated by tolerant species. The diversity of the fauna is
evaluated using taxa richness counts; the tolerance of the community is evaluated using a biotic index.
EPT taxa richness (EPT S) criteria have been developed by DWQ to assign water quality ratings
(bioclassifications) for Full Scale and EPT samples. "EPT" is an abbreviation for Ephemeroptera +
Plecoptera.+ Trichoptera, insect groups that are generally intolerant of many kinds of pollution. Higher
EPT taxa richness values usually indicate better water quality. Bioclassifications for Full Scale samples
are also based on the relative tolerance of the macroinvertebrate community as summarized by the North
Carolina Biotic Index (NCBI). Both tolerance values for individual species and the final biotic index values
have a range of 0-10, with higher numbers indicating more tolerant species or more polluted conditions.
EPT abundance (EPT N) and total taxa richness calculations also are used to help examine between -site
differences in water quality.
A Not Impaired rating is given if a stream is less than four meters wide and would receive a
'bioclassification of Good -Fair or better using DWQ EPT criteria developed for larger streams, if the
stream is not in an undisturbed mountain watershed.
RESULTS AND DISCUSSION
FISH
On April 29, 2002, the flow in Mackey Creek (based upon the USGS gauge at the Catawba River near
Pleasant Gardens (SR 1221, McDowell County) was approximately 40% of the median flow (historical
median flow -275 cfs, actual flow =113 cfs). On March 25, 1998, the flow was approximately 100% of the
historical mean flow (historical monthly mean flow = 371 cfs, actual flow = 375 cfs). Much of the state in
2002 was in a severe to exceptional drought that"had started in 1998. Instream and riparian habitats
were of high quality in 2002 and in 1998 (habitat scores = 87 and 81, respectively) (Table 1). Colder
water temperatures in 1998 than in 2002 accounted for the slight differences in dissolved oxygen
concentrations and saturations; specific conductance and pH were similar for both dates (Table 2).
Table 1. Habitat assessment scores at Mackey Creek at US 70, McDowell County, March 25,
1998 and April 29, 2002.
Habitat characteristic
Sample Date
March 25, 1998 April
29, 2002
Possible score
Channel modification
5
4
5
Instream habitat
18
18
20
Bottom substrate
15
12
15
Pool variety
6
8
10
Riffle habitats
16
16
16
Bank stability and vegetation
Left bank
3
6
7
Right bank
3
6
7
Light penetration
7
9
10
Riparian vegetative zone width
Left bank
3
3
5
Right bank
5
5
5
Total habitat score
81
87
100
3

Table 2. Physical and water quality characteristics for Mackey Creek at US 70 below Metal
Industries, Inc., McDowell County, March 25, 1998 and April 29, 2002.
Sample Date
Physical and Water Quality Characteristic March 25, 1998 Aril 29, 2002
Temperature (°C) 8.0 16.3
Dissolved oxygen (mg/L) 11.9 8.5
Dissolved oxygen saturation (%) 101 87
Specific conductance (pmhos/cm) 17 22
pH (standard units) 6.3 6.9
Water clarity Clear Clear
Seventeen species of fish were collected on April 29, 2002; only one species was collected on March 23,
1998 (Table 3). The most abundant species in this diverse community were the central stoneroller and
the greenhead shiner. A majority of the species were represented by multiple age groups and there was
no incidence of disease. The community was rated Good, NCIBI = 52 (Table 4). Although central
stonerollers were fairly abundant and the trophic structure slightly skewed towards omnivores and
herbivores (both indicative of some slight enrichment from upstream nonpoint sources), the fish
community has recovered quickly from the toxic metals discharge. The fish community and its
components are now typical of those found in mountain and foothills streams in the upper Catawba River
basin.
Table 3. Scientific and common names, tolerance ratings, adult trophic guild assignments,
and abundance of the -individual species collected from Mackey Creek at US 70
below Metal Industries, Inc., McDowell County, March 25,1998 and April 29, 2002.
Family/Species
Common Name
Tolerance
Rating
Adult
Tro hic Status
Sample Date
March 25, April 29,.
1998 2002
Cyprinidae
Minnows
Campostoma anomalum
Central stoneroller
Intermediate
Herbivore
236
Clinostomus funduloides
Rosyside dace
Intermediate
Insectivore
26
Luxilus coccogenis
White shiner
Intermediate
Insectivore
65
Nocomis leptocephalus
Bluehead chub
Intermediate
Omnivore
79
Notropis chlorocephalus
Greenhead shiner
Intermediate
Insectivore
164
N. scepticus
Sandbar shiner
Intermediate
Insectivore
7
Catostomidae
Suckers
Canostomus commersoni
White sucker
Tolerant
Omnivore
2 5
Hypentilium nigricans
Northern hogsucker
Intermediate
Insectivore
23
Scartomyzon rupiscartes
Striped jumprock
Intermediate
Insectivore
11
Ictaluridae
Catfishes
Noturus insignis
Margined madtom ,.
Intermediate
Insectivore
17
Centrarchidae
Sunfishes and Bass
Lepomis auritus
Redbreast sunfish
Tolerant
Insectivore
7
Micropterus salmoides
Largemouth bass
Intermediate
Piscivore
1
Percidae
Darters and Perches
Etheostoma flabellare
Fantail darter
Intermediate
Insectivore
6
E. olmstedi
Tessellated darter
Intermediate
Insectivore
11
E. thalassinum
Seagreen darter
Intolerant
Insectivore
2
Perca flavescens
Yellow perch
Intermediate
Piscivore
14
Percina crassa
Piedmont darter
Intolerant
Insectivore
7
4

Table 4. North Carolina Index of Biotic Integrity values and scores for Mackey Creek at US
70 below Metal Industries, Inc., McDowell County, March 25, 1998 and April 29,
2002.
Metric Value (metric score within parentheses)-
March 25, 1998
April 29, 2002
Number of Species
1(1)
17 (5)
Number of Fish
2 (1)
681 (5)
Number of Species of Darters
0 (1)
4 (5)
Number of Species of Sunfish, Bass, and Trout
0 (1)
2 (3)
Number of Species of Suckers
1 (3)
3 (5)
Number of Intolerant Species
0 (1)
2 (3)
Percentage of Tolerants Fish
100 (1)
2 (5)
Percentage of Omnivores + Herbivores
100 (1)
47 (3)
Percentage of Insectivores
0 (1)
51 (3)
Percentage of Piscivores
0 (1)
2.2(5)
Percentage of Diseased fish
0.0(5)
0.0(5)
Percentage of Species with Multiple Age Groups
0 (1)
88 (5)
Total North Carolina Index of Biotic Integrity Score 18 52
North Carolina Index of Biotic Integrity Class Poor Good
BENTHOS
Results of the benthos sampling and a complete taxa list are given in Table 5 and Appendix 1. The
benthic macroinvertebrate community also showed a marked improvement following removal of the
discharge. Different sampling techniques were used in 1998 and 2002, so direct comparisons of taxa
richness values cannot be made. However, the bioclassification improved from Fair in 1998 to Good in
2002, as was found above the discharge in 1998. EPT taxa richness doubled from 15 to 30. This
increase was not attributable to the sampling method. Intolerant or long-lived taxa such as the stoneflies,
Acroneuria abnormis and Paragnetina immarginata, and mayflies, Epeorus rubidus and Leucrocuta, were
abundant, and were absent of rare in 1998. Water levels during the August benthos sampling were much
lower than during the fish sampling in spring. The reduced flow may have had some effect on the
benthos.
The higher gradient, upstream site at SR 1453 was only three meters wide, probably due to the drought
conditions, so it was not assigned a bioclassification. It was considered Not Impaired because a rating of
Good -Fair would be given, based on the EPT taxa richness value of 23, if it were a larger stream. This
site had.an Excellent rating in 1992 and a Good rating in 1997. The low water levels reduced the edge
habitat available. A layer of silt over the rocks was -noted, as well as accumulations of sand in slow areas.
[Note: The source of sediment has been identified as originating from land disturbing activities on .
property on Guy Road near the mouth of Knife Branch, a small tributary to Mackey Creek: The land
quality violations have lead to enforcement actions against the property owner.]
5

Table 5. Summary of benthos sampling results for two sites on Mackey Creek, McDowell
County, August 2002.
Sample Site and Date
Below US 70, August 06, 2002 SR 1453, August 08, 2002
COMMUNITY
Ephemeroptera
17
11
Plecoptera
4
5
Trichoptera
9
7
Coleoptera
6
Odonata
5
Megaloptera
3
Diptera: Chironomidae
18
Misc. Diptera
0
Oligochaeta
2
Crustacea
1
Mollusca
2
Other
0
Total Taxa Richness
67
EPT Richness
30
23
EPT Abundance
169
134
Biotic Index
4.25
---
Bioclassification
Good
Not Impaired
Sample Type
Full Scale
EPT
HABITAT
Stream Width (m)
6
3
Depth -Average (m)
0.1
0.1
Canopy (%o)
80
30
Substrate (%)
Boulder
35
0
Rubble
35
0
Gravel
10
10
Sand
20
80
Silt
0
10
Habitat Score
77
79
CHEMISTRY
Temperature (2C)
25
22
Dissolved oxygen (mg/L)
7.2
7.5 .
Specific conductance (pmhos/cm)
43
30
H standard units
---
REFERENCES
BAU., 1998. Biological monitoring of Mackey Creek at US 70 and SR 1413, McDowell County, above
and below the Metal Industries, Inc. discharge, March 25, 1998. Memorandum. Biological -
Assessment Unit. North Carolina Department of Environment and Natural Resources. Division
of Water Quality. Water Quality Section. Environmental Sciences Branch. Raleigh, NC.
NCDENR. 2001a. Standard operating procedure. Biological monitoring. Stream fish community
assessment and fish tissue. Ibid.
. 2001 b. Standard operating procedures for benthic macroinvertebrates. Ibid.
c: Larry Frost (Asheville Regional Office)
Darlene Kucken (Basinwide and Estuary Planning Unit)
Winthrop Taylor (District 8, North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission)
F�orresbW,estalla(Asheville Regional Office)
6

Appendix 1. Benthic macroinvertebrate taxa list, Mackey Creek, McDowell County, August 2002.
Taxon
EPHEMEROPTERA
Acentrella sp
Baetis flavistriga
Baetis intercalaris
Baetis pluto
Baetis propinpus
Caenis spp
Centroptilum spp
Epeorus rubidus
Eurylophella spp
Heptagenia marginalis
Isonychia spp
Leucrocuta spp
Paraleptophlebia spp
Procloeon spp
Stenonema ithaca
Stenonema modestum
Serratella defidens
Stenacron pallidum
PLECOPTERA
Acroneuria abnormis
Leuctra spp
Paragnetina immarginata
Pteronarcys spp
Tallaperla spp
TRICHOPTERA
Cheumatopsyche spp
Chimarra spp
Dolophilodes spp
Glossosoma spp
Hydropsyche betteni
Lype diversa
Neophylax oligius
Polycentropus spp
Rhyacophila fuscula
Symphitopsyche spama
Triaenodes ignitus
COLEOPTERA
Helichus sp
Macronychus glabratus
Optioservus spp
Promoresia spp
Psephenus herricki
Stenelmis spp
ODONATA
Argia spp
Boyeda vinosa
Calopteryx spp
Gomphus spp
Stylogomphus albistylus
MEGALOPTERA
Corydalus cornutus
Nigronia serricomis
Sialis spp
Below US 70, August 06. 2002
C
A
A
R
R
C
R
A
C
A
A
R
R
A
A
C
A
A
A
A
C
A
C
C
R
A
C
C
C
C
R
R
R
R
A
R
C
R
C
C
C
C
C
R
SR 1453, August 08, 2002
EPT
C"
A
C
A
A
R
R
A
A
C
A
A
C
C
R
A
A
R
A
R
C
R
A
7

Appendix 1 (continued).
Sample Site and Date
Below US 70, August 06, 2002 SR 1453, August 08, 2002
Sample Type
Full Scale EPT
Taxon
DIPTERA: CHIRONOMIDAE
Ablabesmyia annulata
R
Ablabesmyia mallochi
C
Cricotopus varlpes gr. c% sp 6
C
Cladotanytarsus spp
C
Conchapelopia group
R
Corynoneura spp
R
Cryptochironomus fulvus
R
Microtendipes sp 1
C
Nilotanypus spp
R
Polypedilum fallax
R
Polypedilum illinoense
R
Polypedilum scalaenurn
C
Phaenopsectra spp
C
Procladius spp
R
Stenochironomus spp
R
Stictochironomus spp
C
Tanytarsus spp
C
Thienemaniella spp
R
MISC. DIPTERA
Anopheles spp
R
Empididae
R
CRUSTACEA
Cambaridae
R
GASTROPODA
Elimia sp
A
Fenissia spp
C

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® North Carolina Wildlife Resources Commission
512 N. Salisbury Street, Raleigh, North Carolina 27604-1188, 919-733-3391
Charles R. Fullwood, Executive Director
April 19, 1999
Linda Forehand
Nondischarge Compliance/Enforcement Unit
Division of Water Quality
Post Office Box 29535
Raleigh, NC 27626-0535
Subject: Mackey Creek Fish Kill
McDowell County
April 6, 1999
Dear Ms. Forehand:
The Mackey Creek fish kill investigation has been completed. The fish replacement costs
and investigative costs for Wildlife Resources Commission staff are $873.95 and $268.14,
respectively. The total amount allocable to this agency is $1,142.09.
Thank you for your assistance. If you have questions concerning this report, please
contact me at [phone] ext. 283.
Sincerely,
Frank McBride, Manager
Habitat Conservation Program
Division of Inland Fisheries
C: Mark Hale, DWQ
1:yavfiwWMQ.
Kin Hodges, WRC
Richard Guire, WRC

FISH KILL REPORT
Date. (s): 6 April 1999
Time Reported: 6 April 1999, approximately 3:30 p.m.
Counties: McDowell
Stream or Lake: Mackey Creek, CAT 7-22
Location: Mackey Creek, immediately below bridge at U.S. 70 downstream to
the confluence with the Catawba River at river km 238.5.
Type of Investigation: Formal
Observations: Approximately 125 dead silver redhorse. Some distressed fish.
Effluent flowing from PVC pipe into Mackey Creek immediately
below U.S. 70 bridge.
Type of Pickup: Partial; to obtain average weight for cost estimate.
Additional Comments: No dead fish found above U.S. 70 or in tributary creek, Stillhouse
Branch. No other fish of any type seen in creek alive or dead. Stream
segment appeared to be severely degraded.
EXPENSES
Total Subsistence:
Miscellaneous:
Douglas A. Besler:
Mallory Martin:
None
None
13 hours, 40 miles
2 hours, 20 miles
OBSERVATIONS REPORTED
On 6 April 1999 I was notified of a resident reporting a fish kill in progress on Mackey Creek
(CAT 7-22), a tributary to the Catawba River at river km 238.5. I responded to the resident,
Joyce McKinney, and met her on site. Upon initial investigation of the scene it was discovered
that dead and dying fish were found immediately below the U.S. 70 bridge downstream to the
confluence with the Catawba River. I then contacted Liz Dickson, DWQ, and reported the fish
kill to her. Liz advised me that DWQ would proceed with an investigation and to begin
estimating the extent of the kill.

Mackey Creek Fish Kill Report 2 4/6/99
e
No dead or distressed fish were found upstream of U.S. 70 or in the tributary to Mackey Creek,
Stillhouse Branch. Immediately below the U.S. 70 bridge I noticed a clear effluent flowing from
a white PVC pipe directly into Mackey Creek. Over 100 silver redhorse (Moxostoma anisurum)
were found dead along the approximately 800 in downstream to the confluence with the Catawba
River. Several silver redhorse were found in the process of dying and could readily be captured
by hand. All dead fish appeared to have died within the prior 24 hours. Only adult silver
redhorse >350 min total length were found. No other species of fish were noticed alive or dead;
the creek appeared to have been substantially impacted over time. Many of the dead silver
redhorse had free -flowing eggs and milt and probably moved up the tributary to spawn.
After assessing the situation with Liz Dickson, I then contacted Mallory Martin, NCWRC, and
he met me on site with the necessary equipment to estimate the size and number of dead fish.
Mallory began at the U.S. 70 bridge and collected the first 10 silver redhorse encountered
downstream and enumerated the remainder. I began at the confluence with the Catawba River
and repeated the exact process upstream until I encountered Mallory. The total number of silver
redhorse enumerated was 128. Several silver redhorse were seen floating into the Catawba River
and it is likely that our estimate was substantially low. Total lengths (mm) and weights (g) were
recorded for each fish collected. The average weight of the 20 fish collected were used to
estimate the total weight of all silver redhorse killed and provide the fish cost estimate.
Replacement costs for fish were derived from Investigation and Valuation of Fish Kills
(American Fisheries Society special Publication 24, 1992).
On 8 April 1999 I returned to the site and walked the entire length of Mackey Creek from the
U.S. 70 bridge downstream to the confluence of the Catawba River. Only a few dead fish were
spotted and appeared to be over 24 hours old. I collected two dead silver redhorse, one northern
hogsucker (Hypentelium nigricans), two central stonerollers (Campostoma anomalum), and two
bluehead chubs (Nocomis leptocephalus). These specimens were sent to Mark Hale, DWQ, for
tissue analysis.

V
Field Investigation Costs
INLAND FISHERIES
Name Hours
Salaries
Mileage
Subsistence Misc.
Mallory Maartin 2
$41.42
$ - 5.60
$0.00 $0.00
Doug Besler 8
$126.72
$ 15.20
$0.00
Subtotal Inland Fish. 10
$168.14
$ 20.80
$0.00 $0.00
Report And Evaluation Preparation
Name Hours
Salaries
Doug Besler 5
$79.20
Subtotal 5
$79.20
Grand Total 15
$247.34
Cost Summary:
Inland Fish.
B. Fish Replacement
$873.95
C. Fish Transportation
D. Fish Investigation
Salaries
$247.34
Mileage
$20.80
Subsistence
$0.00
Boat Rental
$0.00
Miscellaneous
$0.00
Total Fish Investigation
$268.14
GRAND TOTAL
$ 19142.09

Complete only one block of cells
INCOMPLETE ACCESS
Length of stream segments (yds)
Stratum I
Number of segments sampled in Stratum I
Number of segments in kill area in Staturn I
Expansion Factor
Segment
Length Count
NO
2
X.
3
4
5
IN
Sample Totals
Sample SE
Sample PSE
Expanded Totals
MOR
Expanded SE
Stratum 11
Number of segments sampled in Stratum 11
Number of segments in kill area in Staturn 11
Expansion Factor
Segment
Length Count
2
3
4
5
Sample Totals
Sample SE
REMAIN=
Sample PSE
Expanded Totals
MEN 111'00,
Expanded SE
Stratum III
Number of segments sampled in Stratum 11
Number of segments in kill area in Staturn III
Expansion Factor
Expanded Totals
[,anm
Expanded SE
Grand Totals
Expanded Totals
Expanded SE (+/-)
Value
Value
COMPLETE ACCESS
Length of individual stream segment (yds)
Number of segments sampled
Length of kill area (yds) [Note: 1,760 yds/mile]
Expansion Factor
Segment
Length Count
1
Q-0"RE
2
3
HE
4
5
Sample Totals
Sample SE (+/-)
Sample PSE
Expanded Totals
Expanded SE
R ,:EF
Value

This workbook is for use with the narrow streams protocols described in "Investigation and Valuation of Fish Kills" (AFS Special Publication 24, 1992).
This workbook (STREAMS.XLS) is one of three for estimating fish kill totals and values. The others are for open water situations (LAKES.XLS),
and for wide streams and rivers (RIVERS.XLS).
The following mathematical and statistical criteria and limitations apply to using this workbook:
This workbook can be used for streams with complete access (pg 19) or incomplete access (pg 21).
Single day pick up only. Multiple day pickups must be treated as series of single days (pg 30).
Subsampling of a species or segment (pg 51) must be expanded prior to entering data in the workbook.
Corrections for drifting fish (pg 24) must be made prior to entering data in the workbook.
Expanded numbers of fish are generated by multiplying the total count by an expansion factor (pg 19).
Expanded estimates are for all species combined, not for individual species or inch -classes. If you want more detailed information
you must do so in a different workbook.
Rename the file for the stream and year using the "File/Save As..." command.
The first 6 digits should be for the stream name, the last 2 digits for the year (e.g., stony97.xis)
Complete the Stratum 1, (Stratum 2) and Statistics worksheets
Select the appropriate sampling method for narrow streams (pg 18-25). c
In the blue cell to the right type a "C" (Complete Access method) or an "I" (Incomplete Access method).
If you don't use an acceptable letter, the worksheets will not compute any values.
Narrow streams with complete access.
Segment lengths must be uniform (pg 19).
Fill in appropriate cells on Stratum 1 worksheet only.
On the Statistics worksheet, fill in blue cells in the Complete Access block.
Narrow streams with incomplete access.
**' If using stratum 1 and 2 (bottom pg 21):
Fill in appropriate cells on Stratum 1 and Stratum 2 worksheets.
On the Statistics worksheet, fill in blue cells in the Incomplete Access block.
Note - the expansion factor = number of segments in stratum / number of segments sampled in stratum (pg 19).
*** If using stratum 1 only (top pg 21):
May be treated in same manner as complete access provided that segment lengths are uniform. Use letter "C" above.
Complete the Summary worksheet
Select appropriate valuation scenario (pg 54-63) and type the scenario number in the blue cell to the right. 2
If you don't use an acceptable number/letter, the worksheets will not compute any values.
Scenario 1:
Restocking with fish like those killed
Scenario 2:
Natural production
Scenario 3:
Restocking with selected immature fish
Scenario 4a:
Closure with restocking fish like those killed
Scenario 4b:
Closure with natural production
Scenario 4c:
Closure with restocking selected immature fish
Notes on each worksheet
All Worksheets
The worksheets are protected to prevent changes to formulas, etc.
Blue cells To be completed by District Biologist
Yellow cells To be completed by Program Manager
Gray cells Contain formulas
Red cells Highlight totals
Stratum 1 and Stratum 2 Worksheets
If you have an unlisted species, use the last table. You must also provide the fish values.
If you collect more detailed information (e.g., species specific data), it must be combined into the given groups.
Statistics Worksheet
The Standard Error formulas are NOT corrected for finite populations. If you wish to do so, follow AFS methods (pg 51).

FISH DILL REPORT
Date (s): 6 April 1999
Time Reported: 6 April 1999, approximately 3:30 p.m.
Counties: McDowell
Stream or Lake: Mackey Creek, CAT 7-22
Location: Mackey Creek, immediately below bridge at U.S. 70 downstream to
the confluence with the Catawba River at river km 23 8.5.
Type of Investigation: Formal
Observations: Approximately 125 dead silver redhorse. Some distressed fish.
Effluent flowing from PVC pipe into Mackey Creek immediately
below U.S. 70 bridge.
Type of Pickup: Partial; to obtain average weight for cost estimate.
Additional Comments: No dead fish found above U.S. 70 or in tributary creek, Stillhouse
Branch. No other fish of any type seen in creek alive or dead. Stream
segment appeared to be severely degraded.
EXPENSES
Total Subsistence
Miscellaneous:
Douglas A. Besler:
Mallory Martin:
None
None
13 hours, 40 miles
2 hours, 20 miles
OBSERVATIONS REPORTED
On 6 April 1999 I was notified of a resident reporting a fish kill in progress on Mackey Creek
(CAT 7-22), a tributary to the Catawba River at river km 238.5. I responded to the resident,
Joyce McKinney, and met her on site. Upon initial investigation of the scene it was discovered
that dead and dying fish were found immediately below the U.S. 70 bridge downstream to the
confluence with the Catawba River. I then contacted Liz Dickson, DWQ, and reported the fish
kill to her. Liz advised me that DWQ would proceed with an investigation and to begin
estimating the extent of the kill.

No dead or distressed fish were found upstream of U.S. 70 or in the tributary to Mackey Creek,
Stillhouse Branch. Immediately below the U.S. 70 bridge I noticed a clear effluent flowing from
a white PVC pipe directly into Mackey Creek. Over 100 silver redhorse (Moxostoma anisurum)
were found dead along the approximately 800 in downstream to the confluence with the Catawba
River. Several silver redhorse were found in the process of dying and could readily be captured
by hand. All dead fish appeared to have died within the prior 24 hours. Only adult silver
redhorse >350 mm total length were found. No other species of fish were noticed alive or dead;
the creek appeared to have been substantially impacted over time. Many of the dead silver
redhorse had free -flowing eggs and milt and probably moved up the tributary to spawn.
After assessing the situation with Liz Dickson, I then contacted Mallory Martin, NCWRC, and
he met me on site with the necessary equipment to estimate the size and number of dead fish.
Mallory began at the U.S. 70 bridge and collected the first 10 silver redhorse encountered
downstream and enumerated the remainder. I began at the confluence with the Catawba River
and repeated the exact process upstream until I encountered Mallory. The total number of silver
redhorse enumerated was 128. Several silver redhorse were seen floating into the Catawba River
and it is likely that our estimate was substantially low. Total lengths (mm) and weights (g) were
recorded for each fish collected. The average weight of the 20 fish collected were used to
estimate the total weight of all silver redhorse killed and provide the fish cost estimate.
On 8 April 1999 I returned to the site and walked the entire length of Mackey Creek from the
U.S. 70 bridge downstream to the confluence of the Catawba River. Only a few dead fish were
spotted and appeared to be over 24 hours old. I collected two dead silver redhorse, one northern
hogsucker (Hypentelium nigricans), two central stonerollers (Campostoma anomalum), and two
bluehead chubs (Nocomis leptocephalus). These specimens were sent to Mark Hale, DWQ, for
tissue analysis.
FISH . 9 ? 3. 4 5.
2wrv&_5T76A,-nvt CWS: a61r• Iy
�1,/'12.U`1

11/04/1990 04:17 7047249421
14ETAL INDUSTRIES
PAGE 02
So rnp le lesn
sri%Tc
T.3 bt AJ)TS
007
3,38
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------------

Date: y /� Pages =7`U1�K FA/\ m6// ceAffi :
To: 11,W_C,kA r,EErS EK-
From: Liz J IC<1J,�,
Co./Dept.
Co./Dept.
Fax:
Fax:
Phone:
Phone:
Note:. CrL �i= T¢% Drjc.�rSS (
E-Mail:
Fish Dill Under Investigation
By RAGAN ROBINSON :<
Staff Writer
Two Pleasant Gardens boys made a grue-
some discovery Tuesday as they waded
through Mackey Creek — a creek bed full of
dead sucker fish.
Adam McKinney and his cousin, Jessie
McKinney, were wading upstream when
they began to notice the fish lying on the bot-
tom.
"I counted about 50," said Adam
McKinney. "They go up through there to
spawn every year and then go back but
they're not getting back so well."
His mother, Joyce McKinney, took one
look at the mess before calling N.C. Wildlife
Resources and the Environmental Protection
Agency.
"It's horrifying when you can't even wade
a clear stream like this without having to
worry what killed the fish," she said. "I just
Officials will try to determine what
caused a fish kill in Mackey Creek.
(Photo by Bonnie Byrd)
wonder what could be in this water."
Doug Besler of N.C. Wildlife Resources
made a trip to P.G. to find out whether the
matter warranted investigation by the N.C.
(See FISH, Page 2A)
Fish Kill Under Investigation
(Continued from Page 1A)
Division of Water Quality.
He said it is possible that the
fish could be dying as the result of a
natural occurrence, but it was high-
ly unlikely.
"Usually when you have some-
thing localized like this, it's some-
thing someone's put in the water,"
he noted.
The fish he saw in the water
were Golden Redhorses, said
Besler, which are sucker fish that
feed from the bottom of the creek
bed.
The Division of Water Quality
will assess any civil penalties or
fines once they determine whether
anything was put into Mackey
Creek.
The McDowell News, Wednesday, April 7, 1999

COUNTY MCDOWELL
RIVER BASIN :
REPORT TO ARO Regional Office
Other :
COLLECTOR(S) : DICKSON
Estimated BOD Range:
DIVISION OF WATER QUALITY
Chemistry Laboratory Report / Water Quality
PRIORITY
AMBIENT QA
COMPLIANCE CHAIN OF CUSTODY
EMERGENCY
Seed: Chlorinnted:
Ration q Dale Begin (yy/mm/dd) Date End (3,34nun/dd)
990406
BOD 310 mg/L
COD High 340 mg/L
COD Low 335 mg/L
Coliform: AIF Fecal 31616 /IOOmI
Coliform: MF Total 31504 /1 OOmI
Coliform. tube Fecal 31615 - /IOOmI
Coliform: Fecal Strep 31673 /I001"1
Residue: Total 500 mg/L
Volatile 505 mg/L
Fired 510 ntgiL
Residue: Suspended 530 mg/L
Volatile 535 mg/L
Fixed 54o mNL
PH 403 units
Acidity to pH 4.5 436 nw/L
Acidity 10 pH 8.3 433 ntg/L
o pH 8.3 415 me/L
o p114.5 410 mg/L
EAlkalinity
1n�
NTU
tal Tube "11001n1s
COAIAIENTS :
L
Station Location: MACKEY CRK
Remarks:
WO SAMPLETYPE
M STREAM
EFFLUENT
LAKE
INFLUENT
El ESTUARY
Time Begin Time End Depth - DDI, DB, DBM
0710
Chloride 940 mr/L
Chi a: Tri 32217 ug/L
Chl a: Corr 32209 u¢/L
Pheophytin a 32213 - u_e/L
Color: True 80 C.U.
Color: (pH) 83 p11.= C.U.
Color: pH T6 82 C.U.
Cyanide 720 mg/L
Fluoride 951 mg/L
Formaldehvde 71880 mg/L
Grease and Oils 556 mg/L
Hardness Total900 mg/L
SpecificCond 95 unihos/cnt2
MBAS 38260 mg/L
Phenols 32730 ug/L
Sulfate 945 mg/L
Sulfide 745 mg/L
Boron
Tannin & Lignin ug/L
Hem%alent Chromium ug/L
Value Type - A, H, L
NH3 as N 610
me/L
TKN an N 625
mg/L
NO2 plus NO3 as N 630
mg1L
P: Total as P 665
mg/L
1104 as P 70507
mg/L
P: DissolI cd as P 666
mg/L
K-Potassium
mg/L
Cd- Cadmium 1027
<2.0 um/L
N
Cr-Chro.,,u n Total 1034
<25 ug/L
Cu- Copper 1042
28.0 ug/L
X
Ni-Nickel 1067
<10 ug/L
X
Pb- Lead 1051
<10 ug/L
X
7-n- Zinc 1092
<10 ug/L
V-Vanadium
ug/L
X
Ag-Silver 1077
<5.0 ug/L
AI- Aluminum 1 105
ug/L
Be- Beryllium 1012
ug/L
Ca- Calcium 916
mg/L
Co- Cobalt 1037
ug/L
Fe. Iron 1045
uy%L
Lab Number :
9W2143
Date Received:
4/12/99
Time Received :
9:50 AM
Received By
HMW
Data Released AR
Date Reported : 4123/99
Composite-T, S, I Sample Type

DIVISION OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT WATER QUALITY FIELD -LAB FORM (DM1For Lab Use ONLY
�OUIVTY�)w�'rii � 0 c�.l�
)
PRIORITY SAMPLE TYPE
RIV& BASIN CA--17.h A�Jr
REPORT TO: ARO RO MRO RRO WaRO WIRO WSRO TS
❑AMBIENT ❑ Qp
I� STREAM
❑EFFLUENT
Other BM
Ot
❑COMPLIANCE ❑ CHAIN
❑ LAKE
INFLUENT
Shipped by: Bus Courier, Staff, Other
OF CUSTODY
EMERGENCY
R
❑ESTUARY
COLLECTOR(S): L4 Z f)rLIL S
Lab Number: 31
Date Received-/�
Tlme0 0
Rec'd by:
From: Bus ours -Hand Del
DATA ENTRY BY: CK:
DATE REPORTED:
Estimated BOD Range. 0-5/5-25/25-65/40-130 or 100 plus STATION LOCATION: fhaC'I('e-7 C"?-
Seed: Yes ❑ No El Chlorinated: Yes ❑ No ❑ REMARKS: Es ti (-�:t.C, Lr%v!~-iZ (q•�,.`)
h
Station # Date Begin (yy/mm/dd) Time Begin Date End Time End Depth DM DS DBM Value
Lill P Type Composite Sample Type
i^� A H L T S B C G GNXX
BODS 310
1
2
3
4
55
mg/I
Chloride 940 mg/1
COD High 340 rng/I
Chi a: Trl 32217 ug/I
COD Low 335 mg/1
Chi a: Corr 32209 ug/I
Coliform: MF Fecal 31616 /100m1
Pheophytln a 32213 ug/1
Coliform: MF Total 31504 /100m1
Color: True 80 Pt -Co
6
7
81
9
10
11
12
13
Coliform: Tube Fecal 31615 /100m1
Color:(pH ) 83 ADMI
Coliform: Fecal Strep 31673 /100m1
Color: pH 7.6 82 ADMI
Residue: Total 500 mg/I
Cyanide 720 mg/I
Volatile 505 m9/I
Fluoride 951 mg/1
Fixed 510 mg/I
Formaldehyde 71880 mg/1
Residue: Suspended 530 mg/I
Grease and Oils 556 mg/I
Volatile 535 mg/I
Hardness -Total 900 mg/1
Fixed 540 mg/1
Specific Cond. 95 2
14
pH 403 units
hos/cr
MBAS 38260 mg/I
15
Acidity to pH 4.5 436 mg/1
Phenols 32730 ug/1
16
Acidity to pH 8.3 435 mg/I
Sulfate 945 mg/1
17
Alkalinity to pH 8.3 415 mg/1
Sulfide 745 mg/I
18
Alkalinity to pH 4.5 410 mg/1
19
TOC 680 mg/I
9n
Turbidity 76 NTU
Sampling Point %
2
0"c-
DMI/Revised 10/86
:onductance at 25 C Water Temperature (C) D.O. mgA
94 10 I r%, o &' S
300 1 .
Salinity R Preclpltlon On/day) Cloud Cover R
NH3 as N 610
mg/I
TKN as N 625
mg/1
NO2 plus NO3 as N 630
m9/1
P: Total as P 665
mg/I
PO4 as P 70507
mgA
P: Dissolved as P 666
mg/I
V
CdCadmium 1027
ugA
K
CrChromfum:Totid 034
ugA
X
Cu-Copper 1042
ug/I
NI -Nickel 1067
ug/I
7(
Pb-Lead 1051
ug/1
Zn-Zlnc 1092
ugA
Ag Ilver 1077
ug/I
AI -Aluminum 1105
ug/I
Be-Berylllum 1012
ug/I
Ca-Calclum 916
mgA
Co -Cobalt 1037
ug/1
Fe -Iron 1045
ugA
LI-Lithium 1132 ug/I
Mg -Magnesium 927 mg/1
Mn-Manganese 1055 ug/I
Na-Sodlum 929 mg/I
Arsenlc:Total 1002 ug/1
Se-Selenlum 1147 ug/I
Hg-Mercury 71900 ug/I
Organochlorine Pesticides
Otganophosplwrus Pesticides
Acid Herbicides
PH Alkalinity Acidity Air Temperature (C)
s7
.47
pH 8.3 pH 4.5 pH 4.5
pH 8.3
400 1 . 82244 1431 82243 182242 20
Wind Direction (Deg) Stream Flow. Severity Turbidity Severity Wind Velocity M/H t4ean Stream Depth ft. Stream Width ft.
480 145 132 r 136
r 11350
4

COUNTY MCDOWELL
RIVER BASIN:
REPORT TO ARO Regional Office
Other
COLLECTOR(S) : DICKSON
Estimated DOD Range:
Seed: Chlorinated:
Station N Dale Begin (y)-humhld)
990406
BOD 310 mg/L
COD Ilieh 340 mg/L
COD Low 335 mu/L
Colifonn: NIF Fecal 31616 IlGoml
Coliforn: MF Total 31504 /100ml
Colifonn. unbc Fecal 31615 /loom]
Coliform: Fecal Strep 31673 /100ml
Residue: Total 500 me/L
Volatile 505 MOL
Fixed 510 mg/L
Residue: Suspended 530 mg/L
Volatile 535 mg/L
Fixed 540 mg/L
PH 403 units
Acidity to pH 4.5 436 mg/L
Acidity to pH 8.3 435 mg/L
Alkalinity to pH 8.3 415 m_Q/L
Alkalinity to pH 4.5 410 mg/L
TOC 680 me/L
Turbidity 76 NTU
Coliform Total Tube "/100 mis
DIVISION OF WATER QUALITY
Chemistry Laboratory Report / Water Quality
PRIORITY
AMBIENT QA
COMPLIANCE CHAIN OF CUSTODY
❑ EMERGENCY
W❑ SAMPLE TYPE
STREAM El EFFLUENT
El LAKE INFLUENT
El ESTUARY
Station Location: METAL INDUSTRIES EFFLUENT
Remarks:
Date End (yphnn✓dd) Time Begin Time End Depth - DM, DD, DBNI Value Type- A, 11, L
0630
Lab Number 9W2144
Date Received : 4/12199
Time Received: 8:50 AM
Received By : HMW
Data Released : AR
Date Reported : 4/23/99
Composite-T, S, I Smuple Type
CODIMENTS:
Aul

DIVISION O►myF� ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT WATER QUALITY FIELD -LAB FORM (DM1)
dol(ir IY ►/ I cou L')C'L— PRIORITY
SAMPLE TYPE
RIVER BASIN CtkT7k%-434'
0
REPORT TO: RO RO MRO RRO WaRO WIRO WSRO TS ❑ QA ' ❑ STREAM .�
❑AMBIENT EFFLUENT
P., t wh rte.. n+ar v
Lab Number:
Date Received: Time:
Rec'd by: HAW I From: Bus- ourle Hand Del
AT BM
Other ❑COMPLIANCE El CHAIN ❑ LAKE ❑ INFLUENT DATA ENTRY BY: CK: Other
OF CUSTODY
Shipped by: Bus Courier, Staff, Other EMERGENCY ❑ ESTUARY DATE REPORTED:
COLLECTOR(S): L IZ. ljICtc_aw
Estimated BOD Range: 0-5/5-25/25-65/40-130 or 100 plus STATION LOCATION: Mt ni L T NA k S l2� CS /V G U U S -7 (�
.Seed: Yes ❑ No ❑ Chlorinated: Yes ❑ No ❑ REMARKS: FPS" ic,, L . zeyl/t=5i1 uPrni -)
Station
ate Begin (yy/mm/dd) Time Begin Date End Time End Depth DM DB DBM Value Type
9 9
`1 Cl U( 06 i A H L
1
.... .. .0 sir
2
COD High 340 mg/1
3
COD Low 335 mg/1
4
Colltorm: MF Fecal 31616 /100ml
5
Colltorm: MF Total 31504 /100ml
6
Colltorm: Tube Fecal 31615 /100ml
7
Colltorm: Fecal Strep 31673 /100ml
8
Residue: Total 500 mg/I
9
Volatile 505 mg/I
10
Fixed 510 mg/1
11
Residue: Suspended 530 mg/l
12
Volatile 535 mg/I
13
Fixed 540 mg/1
14
pH 403 units
15
Acidity to pH 4.5 436 mg/1
16
Acidity to pH 8.3 435 mg/I
17
i,
Alkalinity to pH 8.3 415 mg/1
18
Alkalinity to pH 4.5 410 mg/1
19
TOC 680 mg/1
20
Turbidity 76 NTU
Chloride 940 mg/1
Chi a: Trl 32217 ug/I
Chi a: Corr 32209 ug/I
Pheophytin a 32213 ug/I
Color: True 80 Pt -Co
Coior:(pH ) 83 ADMI
Color: pH 7.6 82 ADMI
Cyanide 720 JU mg/1
Fluoride 951 m9/I
Formaldehyde 71880 mg/I
Grease and Oils 556 mg/I
Hardness Total900 mg/1
a
Specific Cond. 95 hos/cm2
MBAS 38260 mg/1
Phenols 32730 ug/I
Sulfate 945 mg/1
1/
Sulfide 745
mg/1
1
NH3 as N 610 mgA
TKN as N 625 mg/1
NO2 plus NO3 as N 630 mg/I
P: Total as P 665 mg/1
PO4 as P 70507 mgA
P. Dissolved as P 666 mg/1
CdCadmlum 1027 ug/I
)(
Cr-Chromlum:Total1034 ug/I
Cu-Copper 1042 ug/I
NI-Nlckel 1067 ugA
X
Pb-Lead 1051 ug/l
Zn-Zinc 1092 ug/I
Ag-Sliver 1077 ug/I
AI -Aluminum 1105 ug/I
Be -Beryllium 1012 ug/I
Ca-Calclum 916 mgA
Co -Cobalt 1037 ug/1
Fe -Iron 1045 uil/i
Composite
T S B
Sample Type
C G, GNXX
Li -Lithium 1132 ug/I
Mg -Magnesium 927 mg/1
Mn-Manganese 1055 ug/I
Na-Sodium 929 mg/1
Arsenic -Total 1002 ug/I
Se -Selenium 1147 ug/I
Hg-Mercury 71900 ug/I
Organochlorine Pesticides
Organophosphorus Pesticides
Acid Herbicides
Base/ Neutral Extractable Organics
Acid Extractable Organics
Purgeable Organics (VOA bottle reg'd)
Phytoplankton
Sampling Point %
Conductance at 25 C
Water Temperature (C)
D.O. mgA
pH (/
Alkalinity
Acidity
Air Temperature (C)
pti8.3 pti4.5
pH 4.5 pH 8.3
2
94
10
300 1•
400
82244 431
82243 182242
20
Salinity %
Precipitlon On/day)
Cloud Cover %
Wind Direction Meg)
Stream Flow Severity
Turbidity Severity
W Ind Velocity M/H
can Stream Depth ft.
Stream Width it
M
l/
C,
480
45
32 1
36
1351
1350 r
35
64
4
:/7
1
DMI/Revlsed 10;86

1
.12
11/85/1998 05:17 7047249421
14ETAL INDUSTRIES PAGE 01
APR 09 99
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G.�"' f n4�2
5 :.34 NO.001 P.01
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SPEC'TALIZBp AeaXY0 EW-TROt*CNTIIL
2960 roster ereighton Drive
ANALYTICAL REPORT
W"hvil.ld, Tenn0giace 37204
01'iginal report; and a copy o
the
v14Ain raf cuutod will ftr�lam y '
T8' STAMERICA 37.g1
by ms►il.
DINAH TRAI rj,
3-22 LYAW MEXT
AGREVILLE, IW 288t11
Number: 99-A48509
Sample ID; FINAL EYFYriJENT
FY`t> j act; ;
Date C011c0ted: 4/ 5/gp
Time Collected;
Froj*1Qt Naa;e: METAL INDUS'TRT_I;S,:XC-
Aairc R4ceivad: 9/ 5/g9
Simpler: JO7IN BIDVIx
f31 gtC Cam 3 ficat ion . :3Ai
Time Rec!0irred : y ; pG
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11104,11998 04:17 7047249421 METAL INDUSTRIES PAGE 91
10METAL
1 IINDusr IES
SELVER-GOLD -7TN-NICKEL -BLECIROLESSNICKEL -F WVERCOATING
April 3, 1999
To: Liz Dickson
From: Riebie Biddix
Subject: Fish Kill Mackeys Creek
Liz,
Our investigation are as fflllows;
P.O. Box 1210, ZE5- 70 West
Marion, North Carolina 28752
[phone]
Fax [phone]
AN 8 W9
1- Metal Industries plant did not operate from I I pm on 4-1-99 through 7 am Monday
4-5-99. We had a partial operation on Monday 4-5-99. 25% capacity. We pumped
less than 2,000 gallons Monday.
2- AD personnel have been interviewed,
3- A routine water sample was taken
Results are pending.
Test results by M_I- lab, from the
limits.
A routine toxicity sample was pic
are pending,
no unusual events omwTed.
Monday 4-5-99 at 10 am by Test America Labs.
sample are attached. All items tested: are within state
up ou Tuesday 4-6-99 at 9 and Face .Analytical- Results
4- Liz Dickson advised M.I. 2°d shift supervisor Tuesday at approximately 7 pm.
Wednesday morning M.I. personnel N walked Mackeys Creek from Hwy 70 to Catawba River
Junction. Some pelletized materials had been broadcast in a hayfield along .Mackeys Creek
just up from the Catawba River Jun on.
5- No dead fish were observed within 1 00-2000 feet of the effluent discharge poi at. 90°l0 of
the dead fish were observed on the nl rth side of the hayfield to Catawba River Junction-
I
i
,
Metal Industries
ice. f
Richie Biddix
Plant Manager

NC DWQ WQ ENVSCI Fax:[phone]
pp� G
Apr 28 '99 14:09 P. C11/0&2
State of North Carolina
Department of Environment
and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor
Wayne McDevitt, Seoretary
A. Preston Howard, Jr., P.E., Director
. Division of We
i=nvironmental So
4401 Reedy C
Raleigh, NC
Phone [phone] F
M15TA
4
Adft*���
D E N R
Quality
Branch
k Road
r607
[phone]
FAX TO: Liz Dixon FAX MU.iV0411: 828 251-6452
FROM; MARK HAIZ , BIOASSBSS UNIT
DATE: 4128/99 7
PAGES XNCLUDING TMS S)f-11+,ET ,
COMMENTS:
Z_.iz:
Here are some quick numbm on copper toxicity it
are questions. Thanks. 733 -6946
i
i fish. Hope this helps. Call me if there

NC E1WQ WQ ENVSCI Fax:[phone] Apr 28 '99 14:09 P.
COMM
, A5
L v u
the study shows that organic 9absianCe
can bind Cu
deflx►ed; nometheless, Ei ¢I 1974).
Cu fo4city in trout (Brown,
in estabiisl►ing
xic C+1 levels
and decrease
of testing solutions is im►p�ortant
effect.
For example,
S$liniip
salinity— eacerts an ameliorative
. Increased sal} Y ( chz
ius Iirtus)
in pse juvellile pompano
amd Avavlt (1971) agP o H 7.".2, and
C,
,46$ pp m total
zrdaong p
i salinity (20^25
Y,C50 values for Cu are
to Cu at 10, 20, or 30 PP
mat 10 t i
1.42�erefore, } .:
at about 30 PPt)• e 9G-b
(pEfl.fl1) (Tabl
1).
hardness t salinity
at 30 PP
rn
mortalities in P4mpartD.
ppt salinity anti 1.97 pP
hea salinities reduce Cu-induced
hig
ater haranea8, ;
gpeo" of fi aged ou or,.-), LC50 datm.
in V�o"s
ably k. �ppeT twnc'ty riled
are Pro $s6 temp- P�
gQ erence
and tempergture
u e u 9i3•b t`C)
Comn+n am 150 ( bl (F CaCO3a g.g T.
10-12
Lori &?
1976
pccieA , Q9--88
f>0-74
lyjcp}�eYFor1,
Coho salmon
p,uwrhynchug JerAutch
go$les &
96
Perimuttsr,1977
Blus gauromi
Ttfcho8uster #richOPter"'8
7.5
Itgr{jm
45 ID.6
xoo
Benoit,1971
Brooit trout
.�
Salveiinus fwttjnnlia 18-21 &
.7 Wila01),1972
• � 5--10
Atlantic Balm- .
$almo HOW$yungu
5-•25 7,51973
eC a�,
Brow, bullbaBd '170--190 2D2
jct�us you;osuv 7.1
�5
jjiXon, ],981a&b
3.74
s3a 10
'Rainbow trtw865t 2so-s$0
1"Hu,1976
Sairi'w gain*'' i
20
_ ILYdY &
Wis.in6',1968
rantsnl darter 33(92
Otheostoma f it7"u"*rG
196
9 M°w't" 196977
9g77
ckerinS
Asa .20-2s 7
FakhIgRaminnow �(}-49d �a 2D z
s-a.2
pimephalts P' —l—
I)Ydy &988
Wissing,
doh�tny �tBS 4B.�Q2
rthmstema "•`g "- 2D-75
8.2 S,rdsong. 197].
i970 �'a
Pompano
TruchinotuJ carolinuS
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M
NC DWQ WQ ENVSCI Fax:[phone]
Apr 28 '99 14:00 P.01104
State of North Carolina
Department of Environment
and Natural Resources
Division of Water Quality
James B. Hunt, Jr., Governor
Wayne McDevitt, Secretary
A. Presion Howard, Jr., P.E., Director
Division of Water
Environmental Scien
4401 Reedy Cree
Raleigh, NC
Phone [phone] Fax:
FAX TO: Liz pixon FAX
FROM: MARTS HALE ,
DATE: 4/28/99
PAGES INCLM.NG THIS SXXF-ET �k i
COMMENTS;
Liz:
Here are some quick numbers on coppm toxicity u
are questions. 'Thanks. 733 -6946
RT IK .
4j
D E N R
luality
-s Branch
Road
507
[phone]
829 251-6452
r LTNrr
00
r
t
fish. Trope this helps. Call me if thieM

J•arnes W. Moore S. Ramatx oorthy
..:.... eat .. metals
i Natural Waters
Applied Monitoriaag and Impact assessment
With a Contribution by E.E. HaUpiyne
With 48 Figures
Springer-Verlag
New York Berlin Heid0berg Tokyo

'rtion of nee tons In sulnuvu, w.µ11", W b.—.. _ --- -
sic waters. Although combinations of copper/lead and copper/cadmium
an wTlisew in their effects on algae, combinations of copperfnick3d act
nctgistically. Synergism has also been noted for combinations of copper
d iiouride, copper and manganese, and copper and zinc.
Many algal species can adapt to high copper levels W water. Tolerant
W accumulate high levels (600 mg kV-1 dry weight) of copper while still
awing and 4ividing (Stokes, 1975), thereby increasing the amount of
Pper in the food chain in polluted waters. Ernst (1975) found no resistant
zymes specific to tolerant populations of mosses and higher Plants.Inc
nested that tolerance depended on the presence of compkxing agents
rich were not organic acids, however, some species can produce a metal-
hionein-like protein for detoxification.
invertebrates
, per is highly toxic to most ft 6lwater and n m"W invertebrates. LC,c's
generally less than 0*5 rag L-1, though they may range from 0.006 to
225A mg L-L under certain conditions. Toxicity is generally greater is
sl�water than in marine waters, reflecting the relative proportion of the
do free copper ion in solution.
Water hardness plays a role in determining tazicity. The LCm for the
gochaete Tub fex (why -ex increased by a factor of 150 when water
hard -increased from 0.1 to 261 mg CaCO3 L ' (Brkovi&Papovic and Popa-
:, 1977). Simiiady, toxicity of Daphnia magna was directly related to
ivities of cationic Cue , CuoH+ and Cuz(O'H)J+ over wide ranges in total
r, dissolved copper, and inorganic chelator concentration (Andrew. et
. 1977). Variation in buffering
�l effect
ntiaon the availability of Cu(+-2). Although the high
,acity of sea water keeps pH above neutrality, toxicity to invertebrates
ea increases at law pH and salinity (< 50/oo) - due he
to the rise in t
portion of free copper•
The presence of organic chelators in solution significantly increases
of
-vival. Following exposure to 0.020 mg Cu L ', motet}' in ember
pacific oyster Crays
ostrea gigas exceeded 97% (Knezovich et al., 198 0.
the addition of humic matter and EDTA reduced mart lity •to
)wever, vely. Furthermore sod copper from solution,
.8 and 1the respecti
!reby decreasing availability of copper to the test organisms.
Some species can adapt to high levels of copper. Brown (1976) reported
1t the 48h. Lqo for the isopod Asellus meridicanus was 2.5 mg ;-' for
imals collected from a highly polluted river and 1.2 mgL-' forthose from
s polluted sites. Growth of the tolerant isapods was not influenced by
peer -levels which restricted non -tolerant animals and their pm8eay
nearly; 5udo and Aiba (19") demonstrated that the mean inhibitor?
In general, sensitivity is inversely retatedt to sae agef sun ul auu uw. X % -v%L
ration, and population density were directly correlated with LC3o s in the
copepod Acartia tonsa (Sosnowsld et al., 19779). Although this latter study
suggested that sublethal cflects occur at or slightly above ambient levels in
the sea, the ability of wild populations to adapt to copper probably MW-
mims such effects. Sosnowski and Gentile (197S) concluded that LC -%data
for wild populations were significantly more variable than those for cultured
stocks. While changes in food supply under natural conditions probably
E
account for these differences, the toxicity of copper also depends an the
vD
genetic strain of animal under investigation.
EZ
Treatment of the polychaeteEudisiyltavaneoveriwith 0.010 mgCu. L 1
caused a shortening and clubbing of the pinnules on the gills (Young et aL,
1981). There was loss of cellular adhesion in the gills -and sMwtaral derange-
n
meat that lead to cell necrosis and death. Exposure of the whelk Busjvon
cat a ictdafvm to copper in dilated efferent blood sinuses and blood lacunae
in the leaflets of the gills (Better and Yevich,1975), There was a progxmve
increase in the swelling of the leaflets, hallowed by necrosis and sloughing of
the epithelium of the osphrad iam and gills. George et al. (1978) suggested
M
that oysters Ostrea edtdis could compartmentalize capper, following sub.
iD
lethal exposures. It was concluded that toxicity is reduced by active uptake
o
from Ecrum into granular amoebocytes. These cells may contain as much as
13,OW mg k-1 copper.
Lo
;Dish
tD
1D
Copper is usually more toxic to freshwater fish than any other heavy metal
except mercury (Eigare 541 LC o!s range from 0.017 to 1.0 mg L-1 under
most conditions. However, unusually high water hardness may increase We
gbh LC50 to 3.0 mg L 1. Copper is much less toxic to marine fish due to the
high complexiug capacity of salt water. Approximately 30% mortality
oeourrud in. mummicbog following exposure at 8.0 mg Cu L ' for 96h
23
(Eisler and Gardner,1973).
Acute toxicity to freshwater fish depends largely on water hardness
(Figures 54, 5-5). Ionic capper (Cunt) and ionized hydroxides (CuOH+,
Cu2oU2+) are most toxic, with a combined 96h LC5c of 0.00009 -0.23 mg
L ', At low water hardness (12 mg L 1) the incipient Lethal concentration
(1LC)• of dissolved Cu to rainbow trout was not affected by a change in
b
alkalinity of 10 - 50 mg 1.71(Miller and Mackay,1980). However, the same
change in alkalinity in hardwater (98 mg L c) iesulted in a l .8-fold increase
in the iLC. Toxicity of combinations of Cur+fCuOH+/Cur and H} were
antagonistic to rainbow trout at pH <SA, whereas at pH > 5.4 there was
synergissm betwem.capper toxicity and pH (Miller and Mackay, 1980).
8y-nergistic have also been noted for combinations of Cu/Cd/Za.
r�
effects

95
•n in some
is thtrty-
In& and
p i8:345—
oomplex-
309-315.
Ailey-Inter-
0 of metals
1:144-2a7.
en Necker-
. aberrheia-
ium specia-
stai Marine
iealatutn L
tially mixed
:he stability
101),,Up (•I1),
L dr$'crential
1980: Traoa
.0:523-541.
pond oyster
Variations of
Erin Science
survival and
rvirowwnud
s meridiano
of poisons to
Pon BuRetia.
Lechanism of
POPP#r
o.
16 2b 30 E00 200 5W
Total HOADOOe , mq 1-1 ae -cocoa
Figure 8.4. Correlation between total hardness of water and the 48h I,C,e for
-ainbow trout of aiclael, lead, zinc. cadmium, and capper. (From Brown, I O
l
1
60 0
� 1
goo
a
s s6i zoo I I
i I
380
far 100 7 a
�Q gp��lyOrQ 30 g a pH
R
CO
d
Bianca 5•SA. Lzabal concentrations of tOtal dissolved copper to rainbow trout at
carious combinations of water hardness and 14 (From Howarth and Spra2110,
978.) -
v 4a0
1
o I t
a V 200 i 1
i 1
A * 1
War L00
a
�o.f Of01- 30
cOC
a
Figure 5-5B. Lethal concentrations of total dissolved copper to rainbow trout for
any combination of water hardness from 30 to 360 mg L 1 and pH from 5 to 9.
(From Howarth and Sprague, 1979.)
�rni4K 400
N
V too -
IC x I I E
ami ci 360 � _
Wa I0�. _� 6 6
lot)
fd
piP tp araR 9 0 St Et p }1
CO C �a
�3
Figure S-SC. Lethal concentmttons of ionic copper (CO-) plus CuOH; and
C1r2OH1+to rainbow trout at any combination of water hardness from 30 to 360 mg
L I and pH from 5 to 9. (From Howarth and Sprague, 1978).
i
n

94
S. Copper Reces
Cu/Zn, CujZn jNi, Cugn/phenol, Cu/phenol and Cu jchloroamiucs/linear
alkyisulfonate. Anlagonistic effects occur following aamplexation with or-
ganic material, sewage and CaC 0;.
Inter -species variability may account for a 30-fold difference in the
toxicity of copper under constant test conditions. Some of the more send-
tivf• species include fathead minnows, guppies, and golden shiner (Smith
and Heath, 1979; Pickering and Henderson, 1966). Newly -hatched alevins
of steelhead trout were less sensitive than the swim -up and parr stages
(Chapman, 1978). However, in chinook salmon, alevins and parr showed
a equal sensitivity to copper. Dixon and Sprague (1981) found that lethal
tolerance by rainbow trout increased 60-106% fallowing exposures to
29 - 59% of the mean incipient lethal limit. However, acclimation to copper
was not permanent.
Exposure to chroniolsablethal levels (0.02-0.2 mg L-1) of cooper r*-
daces survival, growth, and rate of reproduction in a variety of species. In
soft water, fecundity and egg survival may be inhibited at conoentrations as
lov as 0.004 mg L L. Furthermore, the hetuatocrit for a range of species
increases with copper levels in the environment. Oxygen consumption,
blood pH, and eaetgy expenditure may also increase. whereas feeding rate
may decline (Waiwood and Beamish, 1979; Utt et at., 1976). Sublethal
exposures also result in behavioural changes, such as decreased concealmeat
.,,,a ahit;ry to nrirnt This partially reflects depression in olfactory response
following treatment with copper. There is also a marked change in preferred
temperature, which could in turn produce an immediate decrease in sur-
viud. Although not demonstrated, it is likely that salinity preferenda in fish
would Change, again reducing survival.
Copper ions precipitate gill secretions, causing death by asphyxiation
('Tsai, 1979). There is also an impairment of haem4opoetic tissue in gill
filaments which results in a reduction of oxidative activity. Necrotic kidney
cells, fatty degeneration of the liver, and brain hemorrhage have been
reported for acutely exposed fish. Eisler and Gardner (1973). found that
nuclei of affected squamous epithelial cells of the oral cavity in mummi-
chV appeared pyknotic and hyperchromatic. There was also a marked
increase iu the number of dividing cells in the respiratory epithelium. These
changes are largely similar to those producedby salts of other heavy metals.
Humans
Copper is not acutely toxic to humans. This is due to the interutodiate
coordinate character of copper between hard and soft acids. Hence copper
seldom interferes with sulfur -containing proteins. By contrast the moderate
toxicity to aquatic animalsresults from its sequestering and precipitating the.
essential carboxylic acids. In some. instances, copper deficiency in humans
iraitates chronic copper intoxication. There is no indication that copper is
References
AWL Y Y„ N.B. Bhosle, and A.G. Untawale. 1978. Metal eoncentrWo
seaweeds of Goa (India). Botmica Marina 21:247-250.
Anderson, R.Y. 1977. Concentration ofcadmium, capper, lead, and ft
five poem of freshwater macrobavertebrates from the Fox River, A
Wisconsin. Bulletin of.EnvirunmenW Contamination and T'oxicoks
349.
Andres, R.W, K-E. Biedngler, and G.E. Glass. 1977- Effects of lnorganb
ing on the toxicity of copper to Daphnia magna. Water Research t is
Saes, C.F Jr., and R.E. Mesta = 1976. The hydrolysis of cations. Vf
science, New York. 489 pp.
Banat, K., U. Forstner, And G. Muller. 1974, Experimental mObUizatiol
&am aquatic sediments by nitdictriacetic acid. Chemical Geology 14
Bam t, van R-D., and U. Fbrstaer.1977. Schwamctalle im staugmvgdt
untersuchwipa and sedimenten, algen and wassorpmbea. Aber. Mitt
geol. Yer. 59:247 -263.
Batley, G.B., and D. Ciatdaer. 1978. A study of copper, lead and cadmi
lion in some a wine and coastal marine voters. Estwrine and Cos
Science 739-70.
6evL% S.B, and P.P. favirb. 1975. Copper' taA ty in Bu*wn canal
Biological Bulletin 148:16-25.
Beavers, J.M and P.A. Yeats. 1978. Trace metals in the waters of a par
estuary, Estuarine and Coastal j artne science
BiilinAL H., R. Huston, and W. Stumm. 1976. Dowminatioa of i
constants of some hydroxo and carbonato complexes of PNIi), Q
and Zn(Il) in dilute solutions by anode stripping voltammerry and
pulse polarography. Analwica Chemica Acta 84:157.
Boomer, M.H, P.I. Aruscavage, W.M. Feaebee, and P.A. Baedecker.
metal conctntrzWons•in sediment cores from the Cotdaeatal 5
south-eastern United States. Estuarine and Coastal Martin science t
Boyden, C.R., and M.G. Romeril. 1974. A trace metal problem in
culture. Marine Pollution Bulletin 9.74-78.
Boyden, C.R., S.R. Aston, and 1. Thornton. 1979. Tidal and seasonal `
trace elements in two Cornish estuaries. Estuarine and Coaslal Mc
9.303- 317.
Brkovi6-Popevik l., and M. Popovi%.1977. Effects of heavy metals On
re*ratian rate of tubificid wormer Part I. Elects on survival. E?
Polhalor 13-65--72.
Bmw•n; B.E. 1976, observations an the tolerance of the isopod Asellu
Rao. to copper and lead Water Research 10:555 -S 59. '
Brown, Y.M. 196& The calculation of the acutte toxicity of 301xtures
rainbow trout. Water Research 2:723-733.
l314ma m; L. 1981. Heavy metals in the Baltic Sea. Martne Polim
12:214-218.
Cedeno-Maldonado, A., and J.A. Swader. 1974. 3tedies oa the tr
cappFloxicityiu.ChforeUa.Weed ScienceU,443-449.--,-

a e rcumu auon a copper in w a e
y uss o
ra .M
possr a p . iempetatuta to
t (ascle
ss as
3) art ven.
Concentrarioat values em wetted (where
ble) on the basis of wet wd
t (ww of ` wei
tlloab
p ardn
a erence
g�
,Sposutve
Pasure
What¢ Body
1,lvar Kidnep
(pPM) (PP-)
�PPmi
(PPm)
(4Pm1
°C
Time
Level
'PPm)
7
17
-14419.6
Mey h da ]ienoit.1974
9mok trout
74 tno
b
238
234
16
?A
5
15
-14419•6
3 pP
490
44
13
f45J13-28
Benn311975
Blucgill
2$rno
162gpb
i.2
445113-29
°
72ppb
7
22
3
-145113-28
3PPb"
'
!mzcn&Mobanald,1987b
Rainbow trans
28 d
55 ppb
-7ww
i10ww
-
-1.6ww
7.7f374115
Dixon & 5pngue,1981b
Reinbowtrout
21 d
30Ppb
2ww
_
7.71374115
„
58 PPb
6 ww
-
7,7i374115
94--194ppb
7-8 ww
2�30d
14©ppb
�320 dw
-11 dw
-8 dw
OSO
Buckley el a1.,1982
"
CA,, salmw
70 ppb
-
.-110 dw
-9 dw
-5 dw
0,5(1
,-,a ppb*
-
70 dw
-'9 dw
-3 dw
4A7
25dw
7.5R0215-2<
Bmngserof..19'fS'
Brown
29 rno
� ppb
]30dw
.
bullhead
ppb t
29 dw
. 4 dw
71J20215-25
7.612i12l3-25
30 d
104 ppb
116 dw
23 dw
34 dw
-
7.bR0215-25
_Oppb r
23dw
8dw
Gdw
25
7.81207115.5
O'Neill,1981
Brown trout
39 wk
2w PPb
-
_
44
7.81207115.5
Mamr omP
-39 wk
290 ppb
-
Bluefish F3nvW* 3 Ppb}
ww
- Frazier, 1984
3
Striped bass Fmvirsl - ww '
White Parch
'CanUol levels for !a Cory studicsrar narrnal tc eranoe levels far env ronrnetuai smvdies *'> nv1r, envttanmctua!!)1 exposed.
n
n
0
0
n
H
71
X
tD
LD
ti
W
LD
lD
i.
n
0