SANITARY SURVEY PROGRAM FOR
TEXAS BEACHES
TEXAS GENERAL LAND OFFICE
JERRY PATTERSON, COMMISSIONER
1700 N. CONGRESS AVENUE
AUSTIN, TEXAS 78701
QUALITY ASSURANCE PROJECT PLAN
Prepared for:
US Environmental Protection Agency, Region 6
Dallas, Texas
JUNE 2013
Effective :
A publication of the Coastal Coordination Council pursuant to National
Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration Award No. NA11NOS4190107.
This Quality Assurance Project Plan is funded “in part” by a
grant/cooperative agreement from the National Oceanic and Atmospheric
Administration. The views expressed herein are those of the author(s) and do
not necessarily reflect the views of NOAA or any of its sub-agencies.
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MANAGEMENT’S STATEMENT OF APPROVAL
This Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) is specifically designed for the development and
implementation of a Sanitary Survey Program for Texas Beaches to support the Texas Beach
Watch Program that is required by the Beaches Environmental Assessment and Coastal Health
Act of 2000. The QAPP specifies the overall project design and Quality Assurance (QA)
objectives in sufficient detail to ensure program goals are accomplished in a timely, efficient, and
cost-effective manner. The implementation of this QAPP will also ensure the environmental
data collected is the appropriate type and quality for its intended use.
By our signatures below, we hereby approve this Quality Assurance Project Plan:
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TABLE OF CONTENTS
MANAGEMENT’S STATEMENT OF APPROVAL .............................................................................. I
TABLE OF CONTENTS ........................................................................................................................... II
LIST OF ACRONYMS .............................................................................................................................. V
A. PROJECT MANAGEMENT ............................................................................................................... 1
1. Project/Task Organization ................................................................................................................................. 1
Sanitary Survey Project ............................................................................................................................................. 1
Texas Beach Watch Project ....................................................................................................................................... 2
2. Problem Definition/Background ....................................................................................................................... 2
Sanitary Survey Project ............................................................................................................................................. 2
Texas Beach Watch Project ....................................................................................................................................... 3
3. Project/Task Description ................................................................................................................................... 3
Sanitary Survey Project ............................................................................................................................................. 3
Texas Beach Watch Project ....................................................................................................................................... 4
4. Quality Objectives and Criteria for Measured Data ........................................................................................... 5
Sanitary Survey Project ............................................................................................................................................. 5
Texas Beach Watch Project ....................................................................................................................................... 5
5. Special Training/Certification ............................................................................................................................ 5
6. Documentation and Records ............................................................................................................................. 6
B. DATA GENERATON / ACQUISITION ........................................................................................... 7
1. Sanitary Survey Forms ....................................................................................................................................... 7
Marine Beach Routine On-Site Survey ...................................................................................................................... 7
Marine Beach Annual On-Site Survey ....................................................................................................................... 7
Marine Beach Annual Analysis Form ........................................................................................................................ 7
Texas Marine Beaches Sanitary Survey Data Dictionary ........................................................................................... 7
2. Sampling Process Design ................................................................................................................................... 8
Sampling Depth ......................................................................................................................................................... 9
Design Assumptions .................................................................................................................................................. 9
3. Sampling Methods .......................................................................................................................................... 10
Table 1: Marine Beach Routine On-Site Survey Parameters................................................................................... 11
Table 2. Marine Beach Routine/Annual On-Site Survey Parameters. .................................................................... 12
Table 3. Marine Beach Annual On-Site Survey Parameters. .................................................................................. 14
Procedures for Local Contractors ........................................................................................................................... 16
Labeling the Samples .............................................................................................................................................. 18
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4. Sample Handling and Custody Requirements .................................................................................................. 18
5. Analytical Methods Requirements .................................................................................................................. 18
6. Quality Control Requirements ......................................................................................................................... 18
Specifying Measurement Performance Criteria...................................................................................................... 19
7. Instrument Testing, Inspection, Maintenance, Calibration and Frequency ...................................................... 20
8. Inspection/Acceptance of Supplies/Consumables ........................................................................................... 21
9. Data Management .......................................................................................................................................... 21
Data Recording ....................................................................................................................................................... 21
Data Validation ....................................................................................................................................................... 21
C. ASSESSMENT/OVERSIGHT .......................................................................................................... 22
1. Assessment and Response Actions .................................................................................................................. 22
Assessment Activities and Project Planning ........................................................................................................... 22
Documentation of Assessments and Reports to Management .............................................................................. 22
D. DATA VALIDATION AND USABILITY ....................................................................................... 23
1. Data Review, Validation, and Verification Requirements ................................................................................ 23
Sampling Design ...................................................................................................................................................... 23
Sample Collection Procedures ................................................................................................................................ 23
Sample Handling ..................................................................................................................................................... 23
Analytical Procedures ............................................................................................................................................. 23
Quality Control ........................................................................................................................................................ 23
Calibration ............................................................................................................................................................... 23
Data Reduction and Processing .............................................................................................................................. 24
2. Validation and Verification Methods .............................................................................................................. 24
Reconciliation with User Objectives ....................................................................................................................... 24
APPENDIX A - MARINE BEACH SANITARY SURVEY FORMS ................................................ A-1
Marine Beach Routine On-Site Survey ................................................................................................................A-2
Marine Beach Annual On-Site Survey .................................................................................................................A-4
Marine Beach Annual Analysis ............................................................................................................................A-7
APPENDIX B - DATA DICTIONARY ............................................................................................... B-1
Texas Marine Beaches Sanitary Survey Data Dictionary ..................................................................................... B-2
APPENDIX C - UNIQUE LOCAL CONTRACTOR INFORMATION ............................................ C-1
ARANSAS COUNTY .............................................................................................................................................. C-2
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Aransas County Beach Locations .......................................................................................................................... C-3
NUECES COUNTY ................................................................................................................................................. C-4
Nueces County Beach Locations ........................................................................................................................... C-7
SAN PATRICIO COUNTY ..................................................................................................................................... C-18
San Patricio County Beach Location ................................................................................................................... C-19
APPENDIX D - PROJECT MANAGER SIGNATURE PAGE .......................................................... D-1
PROJECT MANAGER SIGNATURE PAGE .............................................................................................................. D-2
APPENDIX E - CONTRACTOR AND DATA REVIEW TEMPLATE ........................................... E-1
CONTRACTOR AND DATA REVIEW TEMPLATE ..................................................................................................... E-2
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LIST OF ACRONYMS
Coordinator Beach Watch Coordinator
CWSS Center for Water Supply Studies
COC Chain of Custody
DQI Data Quality Indicators
EPA U.S. Environmental Protection Agency
FIPS Federal Information Processing Standard
GLO Texas General Land Office
GM Geometric Mean
QA/QC Quality Assurance/Quality Control
QAO Quality Assurance Officer
QAP Quality Assurance Program
QAPP Quality Assurance Project Plan
QMP Quality Management Plan
SSMD Single Sample Maximum Density
SOP Standard Operating Procedure
TCEQ Texas Commission on Environmental Quality
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A. PROJECT MANAGEMENT
1. Project/Task Organization
Sanitary Survey Project
This project proposes to initiate a standard sanitary survey program, currently lacking in Texas,
to characterize and categorize Texas beaches, assess potential sources of pollution and predict
water quality based on existing data. The surveys will provide information for coastal managers
to assess their beaches and make decisions regarding water quality, modeling, beach
categorizations and remediation plans to reduce potential health risks to the public. The project
addresses the CMP funding category, Water Quantity and Quality Improvements, under the
priority “development or implementation of watershed restoration plans/strategies to address
nonpoint source pollution”. It also addresses the category, Information and Data Availability.
The USEPA’s National Beach Guidance and Required Performance Criteria for Grants include
the use of sanitary surveys as a tool for beach managers to meet grant performance criteria for
the BEACH Act Grant Program.
Sanitary surveys are assessments that characterize an area, identify potential sources of pollution
and predict water quality based on existing data and have been used to assess water quality since
the 1920s. These surveys play a key role in beach classifications for the BEACH Act Grant
Program under which beaches are to be classified in an appropriate tier based on the potential
risk to human health presented by pathogens. (which can be assessed through a sanitary survey
and monitoring) and the use of the beach. A beach sanitary survey covers a multitude of factors
at the beach itself, including beach characteristics, number of bathers, amount of algae on beach,
and wildlife present. Data is also gathered at the watershed level, including weather and rainfall
data, storm water outfall locations, and land use data. The data is integrated to determine
possible correlations with water quality measurements performed throughout the year. The
surveys provide a basis for classifying beaches into tiers, identifying appropriate sampling
locations and prioritizing monitoring needs. Recommendations can then be made on how best to
allocate available resources.
Annual sanitary surveys are lacking for Texas beaches monitored through the Texas Beach
Watch program, with field observation sheets completed at time of water sampling only
containing a limited amount of routine information. Currently two beach segments monitored by
the program are listed on the Texas 303 (d) list as impaired for bacteria and sanitary surveys will
provide an additional assessment of pollution risks at area beaches that can be used to generate
information for local government entities for mitigation and best management practices.
The purpose of this project is to initiate sanitary surveys at Coastal Bend beaches based on the
annual sanitary survey template in the 2005 USEPA Great Lakes Beach Sanitary Survey User
Manual, and incorporating guidance from other documents, to assess pollution risks, re-evaluate
the current beach tier designations and determine the best course of action for future beach watch
sampling at current and potential sites. A pilot program will be initiated for beaches in the
Coastal Bend area of Texas to assess the effectiveness of the sanitary survey process, with plans
in place to expand the survey program to all Texas Beach Watch monitored counties. This work
will be coordinated with the support of state and regional agencies.
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Texas Beach Watch Project
The Texas General Land Office (GLO) will contract with local governments, universities, and
commercial laboratories (local contractors) to collect and analyze water samples. The results of
these water samples will be reported to the GLO and the GLO will notify the local government
contacts, identified in the QAPP and contracts, of the results.
The Texas Beach Watch Coordinator (Coordinator) will coordinate contracts between the GLO
and local contractors, consolidate data submitted, provide program oversight, and maintain the
Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP). The Texas General Land Office will maintain the
Quality Management Plan (QMP) and ensure Quality Assurance/Quality Controls (QA/QC) are
in place.
2. Problem Definition/Background
Sanitary Survey Project
The USEPA developed the Beach Sanitary Survey Tool to help beach managers in the Great
Lakes synthesize all contributing beach and watershed information––including water quality
data, pollutant source data, and land use data––so that they can improve Great Lakes water
quality for swimming. This beach sanitary survey tool is tailored to the beach environment in
the Great Lakes. It has, however, been modified to perform sanitary surveys at Coastal Bend
beaches currently being monitored for water quality. In addition, beach managers can use
sanitary survey data (e.g., bacteria levels, source flow, turbidity, rainfall) to develop models to
predict daily bathing beach water quality, if appropriate. State beach program managers can use
the data collected and synthesized by means of a sanitary survey to prioritize which beaches to
monitor as part of a BEACH Act monitoring and notification program. The USEPA BEACH
Act Grant program provides grants to states, territories, and tribes for beach monitoring and
notification programs. As part of the program, states are required to prioritize beaches for
monitoring.
A beach sanitary survey provides a documented historical record of beach and watershed water
quality. It serves as a baseline to which future beach and watershed assessments of the overall
health of the beach and watershed can be compared, and it enables beach managers to perform
long-range water quality and resource planning. The sanitary survey also provides support for
enforcement actions by establishing a record of conditions and operations at a point in time. The
information in the survey also benefits storm water program managers, wastewater facility
managers, local elected officials, local planning authorities, academic researchers, and other
beach and water quality professionals.
Local beach managers and public health officials can use the survey to identify bacterial sources
of pollutants affecting beaches, assess beach health, share information, and conduct watershed
planning. The Beach Sanitary Survey will help beach managers meet the requirements of the
BEACH Act Grant Program, as described in the National Beach Guidance and Required
Performance Criteria for Grants.
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Texas Beach Watch Project
Growing concerns about the health risks posed by polluted bathing beaches, increased beach
closures, and scientific evidence indicating an increase in infectious diseases caused by microbial
organisms in recreational waters prompted the EPA to create the National Beaches
Environmental Assessment, Closure, and Health (BEACH) Program. The goals of the BEACH
Program are to protect public health at the nation's beaches and to ensure the public is notified
when the risk for potential illness and disease is present.
Subsequently, on October 10, 2000, the Beaches Environmental Assessment and Coastal Health
Act (BEACH Act), was passed to reduce the risk of disease to users of the nation’s recreational
waters. The BEACH Act authorizes EPA to award grants to eligible coastal and Great Lake
states and tribes for the development and implementation of programs to monitor coastal
recreational waters for disease-causing microorganisms, and to notify the public when
monitoring indicates a public health hazard exists. EPA allocated funds in fiscal year 2001 and
annually thereafter to help states develop their monitoring programs. To be eligible for
implementation grants, states must establish and operate monitoring and notification programs
consistent with performance criteria provided in the National Beach Guidance and Required
Performance Criteria for Grants document (June 2002, EPA-823-B-02-004).
Between 1999 and 2003, prior to the passage of the BEACH Act and the development of the
National Beach Guidance and Required Performance Criteria for Grants, the GLO secured and
allocated Texas Coastal Management Program (CMP) funds for water quality monitoring at
thirteen of the most heavily used beaches in six counties along the Texas coast.
3. Project/Task Description
Sanitary Survey Project
Because beaches are dynamic systems, they need to be gauged periodically for short- and long-
term health risks. The Center for Water Supply Studies (CWSS) has developed two types of
beach sanitary surveys––the Marine Beach Routine On-site Survey and Marine Beach Annual
On-Site Survey ––to assist with short- and long-term assessments. The Marine Beach Routine
On-site Survey is performed with water quality sample collection. The Marine Beach Annual
On-Site Survey is performed annually to collect beach sanitary data that changes infrequently.
In addition, the Marine Beach Annual Analysis Form and Marine Beaches Sanitary Survey
Database have been developed.
The Marine Beach Routine On-site Survey is designed to be used each time a water sample is
collected during regular bacterial monitoring to supplement information collected during water
quality sampling. The survey will help to provide useful information on water quality to support
the annual surveys. The form will help identify underlying conditions at the beach that can be
observed frequently and that can contribute to microbiological contamination of the recreational
waters and beach areas. The Routine On-Site Sanitary Survey form is in Appendix A.
In the Marine Beach Annual On-Site Survey (Appendix A), beach measurements and
observations, beach materials and sediments, habitat around beach, description of any Shellfish
Growing Areas, bounding structures, description of sanitary and other facilities, and observed
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potential pollution sources are documented. If any photos are taken, the file name and
description of the photo should also be documented.
The Marine Beach Annual Analysis form compiles collected data from the On-site Surveys
(routine and annual) as well as program information collected by telephone interviews with
program administrators and spatial analysis of landscape changes into an annual evaluation of
beach conditions and changes. This survey expands geographically to include the contributing
watershed and surrounding shoreline. The Marine Beach Annual Analysis form is in Appendix
A.
The Texas Marine Beaches Sanitary Survey Database is a Microsoft Access format relational
database system used to store data relating to the location and description of the individual
beaches, water quality parameters, weather conditions, and all other data collected with the
Routine, Annual and annual analysis forms. Each record contains a unique Beach ID along with
the Beach name and Federal Information Processing Standard (FIPS) code. The Texas Marine
Beaches Sanitary Survey Database is described by the Texas Marine Beaches Sanitary Survey
Data Dictionary in Appendix B.
Texas Beach Watch Project
The Texas Beach Watch project involves the collection and testing of water quality samples for
the presence of Enterococcus bacteria. Local contractors will collect water quality samples using
standard collection methods described under Section B, Data Generation and Acquisition,
Subsection 2, Sampling Methods, of this QAPP. Local laboratories will analyze the samples and
enter results in the Texas Beach Watch Program database. The GLO database will be used to
compare sample results to EPA’s recommended criteria. If sample results exceed EPA’s
recommended criteria, the GLO will notify local government representatives immediately. Local
government representatives may then require signs, warning of elevated bacteria levels, be
posted at the affected beaches. In addition, bacteria levels for each sample are posted in real
time on the Texas Beach Watch Program’s public Internet site at www.TexasBeachWatch.com.
In September 2003, pilot implementation of the expanded monitoring program commenced in
the six counties previously participating in the CMP funded Texas Beach Watch Program
(Jefferson, Galveston, Brazoria, Matagorda, Nueces, and Cameron) and continued through the
summer of 2004. In July 2004, nine additional stations were established in Galveston (1),
Brazoria (2), Nueces (2), and Cameron (4) counties, and four new stations were established when
Aransas County began participating in the program. In 2005 sampling was being conducted at
161 stations on beach segments in Jefferson, Galveston, Brazoria, Matagorda, Aransas, Nueces,
and Cameron counties. In 2006, the Texas Beach Watch Program added six new stations in three
counties: four stations in Kleberg County, one station in San Patricio County, and one station in
Nueces County. Beginning in 2011, the GLO added two testing locations at Sylvan Beach
located in the City of La Porte, Harris County and in September ceased testing at all four stations
in Kleberg County.
In 2008, the Texas Commission on Environmental Quality (TCEQ) listed Ropes Park and Cole
Park beaches in Nueces County as impaired. The beaches are included in the state's 303(d) list
and subjected to additional testing in 2010. The Coastal Bend Bays and Estuaries Program and
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the GLO’s Coastal Management Program simultaneously funded a study conducted by Texas
A&M University – Corpus Christi titled “Detection of Human Fecal Contamination in Corpus
Christi Bay with Bacteria Monitoring and Source Tracking in Corpus Christi Bay at Cole and
Ropes Parks”.
Appendix C – Unique Local Contractor Information contains specific information for each local
contractor including maps and GPS coordinates of sampling locations. As new local contractors
are added to the program, Appendix C is updated incorporated into the contract’s Work Plan and
prior to the new local contractor beginning sampling. Appendix C is also updated when
sampling stations are added or deleted. A copy of the QAPP and applicable Appendices is
included in all contracts between the GLO and a local contractor.
4. Quality Objectives and Criteria for Measured Data
Sanitary Survey Project
The goal of the Sanitary Survey Program is to develop a standard sanitary survey tool for Texas
beaches to support the Texas Beach Watch Program that will be available for all the coastal
counties, and to apply the sanitary survey plan to perform sanitary surveys at Coastal Bend
beaches currently being monitored for water quality, make recommendations for appropriate tier
categories for each beach and based on these initial results, adjust the survey tool as needed for
future use.
Texas Beach Watch Project
The goal of the Texas Beach Watch project is to provide the public with information about water
quality at recreational beaches. Development and implementation of a water quality monitoring
and notification program will meet this goal. Water quality samples will be collected and tested
for Enterococcus bacteria and compared to the EPA recommended Single Sample Maximum
Density (SSMD) criteria of 104 colony forming units (cfu)/100 ml. Upon receipt of reliable
data, advisories will be recommended when sample results for Enterococcus exceed EPA’s
recommended criteria. Data is of acceptable quality when it meets the requirements established
in the QAPP under Section B, Data Generation and Acquisition, Subsections 5 thru 8 and
conducted in accordance with the sampling and analytical methods identified in Section B,
Subsections 1 thru 4.
5. Special Training/Certification
No special training or certification is required for the Sanitary Survey project; however, all
samples taken for the Texas Beach Watch Project will be collected under the supervision of
licensed sanitarians or qualified environmental scientists under contract with the Texas General
Land Office’s Texas Beach Watch Program, who have been trained to collect samples in
accordance with the QAPP and the laboratory’s Standard Operating Procedures (SOP). All
laboratory analyses will be conducted at contracted laboratories under the direction of the Project
Manager identified in Appendix C.
Data entry staff will receive training on the proper procedures to enter and validate data by the
Project Manager or their designee.
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This QAPP is intended to apply to multiple labs using multiple EPA approved techniques
(Method 1600 and IDEXX Enterolert) on a regular basis and therefore references laboratory and
manufacturer QA/QC requirements for equipment and is more general in nature consistent with
the EPA Requirements for Quality Assurance Project Plans (EPA QA/R-5) document,
specifically 2.4 General Content And Detail Requirements, 2.4.1 General Content and 2.4.2
Level of Detail.
6. Documentation and Records
The Center for Water Supply Studies and contract laboratories will be responsible for
maintaining all records related to the collection and analysis of data. These records include
Marine Beach Routine On-Site Survey Form, Marine Beach Annual On-Site Survey Form,
Marine Beach Annual Analysis Form, Texas Marine Beaches Sanitary Survey Data Dictionary,
Texas Beach Watch chain of custody forms, sample analysis forms, individual laboratory
QA/QC records, and any other documentation generated. Hard copies and electronic files
containing field and laboratory data will be stored for three years. The GLO will not require the
submission of hard copies, unless specifically requested. When a contract laboratory ceases to
participate in the Beach Watch Program, all records related to the collection and analysis of data
will be provided to the GLO for recordkeeping purposes. The data can be in electronic format or
hard copy.
The GLO is responsible for maintaining the Texas Beach Watch Program database and ensuring
sample data is maintained and backed up in an electronic format. In addition, the GLO is
responsible for submitting annual data results to EPA on or before January 31.
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B. DATA GENERATON / ACQUISITION
1. Sanitary Survey Forms
Marine Beach Routine On-Site Survey
The Marine Beach Routine On-site Survey is designed to be filled out each time a water sample
is taken for bacterial analysis. The information requested in this form is primarily information
that can be gathered locally, at the beach.
In the first section of the Marine Beach Routine On-Site Survey form, list the basic information
about your beach, such as the date of survey, Beach name and ID, sampling station ID, sampler’s
or monitor’s names, and time sample(s) were collected and delivered to the lab.
The subsequent sections of the Marine Beach Routine On-Site Survey outline site conditions,
beach use, bather load, sampling site information or potential pollution sources and presence or
evidence of wildlife and/or domestic animals. The data fields for the Marine Beach Routine On-
Site Survey may be viewed in Appendix A.
Marine Beach Annual On-Site Survey
This form includes fields for types of data you should consider collecting if you are conducting a
Marine Beach Annual On-Site Survey. Make sure that you document all sources of information,
including name of beach/ID, date of survey, city/county/state, name of water body, name of
surveyors, surveyor affiliation and organization STORET ID. In this survey, beach
measurements and observations, beach materials and sediments, habitat around beach,
description of any Shellfish Growing Areas, bounding structures, description of sanitary and
other facilities, observed potential pollution sources are documented. If any photographs are
taken, the file name and description of the photographs should also be documented.
Marine Beach Annual Analysis Form
In the first section of the Marine Beach Annual Analysis form, list the basic information about
your beach, such as the Beach name and ID, city/county/state, period of analysis, name of water
body, sampling station IDs, name of analyst, analyst’s affiliation, number of routine surveys
analyzed and STORET ID.
The Marine Beach Annual Analysis is a very detailed survey that documents information about
average weather conditions, erosion/accretion measurements, lab analysis of beach materials and
sediment, biological (algae, shellfish, snails or other aquatic organisms) survey results,
description of land use in water shed, beach use, activities at the beach, beach cleaning, water
quality sampling, health concerns associated with the beach, advisories/closings and correlation
of parameters and elevated bacteria concentrations.
Texas Marine Beaches Sanitary Survey Data Dictionary
The Texas Marine Beaches Sanitary Survey Data Dictionary is a table used to store data relating
to the location and description of the individual beaches. Each record contains a unique Beach
ID along with the Beach name and FIPS code.
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2. Sampling Process Design
Sanitary Survey Project
The CWSS has developed standard operating procedures (SOPs) for data collected for the
Sanitary Survey project. These SOPs are current and reflect activities as actually performed.
SOPs are maintained in a Laboratory Method Manual document located in NRC 3100. If SOPs
have not been generated by CWSS, other published methods may be used as SOPs. When
collecting data, CWSS employees will follow the SOPS described in the document. All SOPs,
including manuals or published methods, are written clearly and in enough detail to provide
instruction for any person collecting data to easily follow the methods.
Texas Beach Watch Project
Pursuant to the BEACH Act, Texas determined the number of primary and secondary contact
recreation gulf and bay beaches along with the corresponding beach miles. Beaches in each
county were ranked as primary or secondary contact recreation beaches based on frequency and
density of use. With the exception of Cameron, Galveston, Harris, Nueces, and San Patricio
counties, most of the primary contact recreation beaches are located along the Gulf of Mexico,
where there are no direct discharges from land (point sources or stormwater outfalls). All
beaches along the Gulf of Mexico are ranked as high priority (Tier 1) and sampling of coastal
waters will be conducted as sampling costs and funding allows. The most heavily used beaches
are located in Galveston, Nueces, and Cameron counties. These counties contain the most
sampling stations and receive the majority of the funds available.
Data from sample results are used to recommend swimming advisories; therefore, the collection
and analysis of water samples are classified as critical measurements. Critical measurements are
those required to achieve project objectives or limits on decision errors. The project objective
seeks to provide the public with information about the water quality at beaches used for contact
recreation. One sample will be collected at each sampling station. The sample result is
compared to EPA’s recommended criteria. The criteria or “action levels” is the EPA
recommended 104 cfu/100 ml for the SSMD. If the SSMD is exceeded, an advisory will be
recommended by the GLO and a sample will be collected daily until the sample result is below
the recommended criteria.
The SOPs for field sampling are described in sequential steps. The SOP also includes
information pertaining to specific facilities, equipment, materials and methods, and QA/QC
procedures. All local contractors will follow the SOPs described in Part 9000 (Microbial
Examination) of Standard Methods for the Examination of Water and Wastewater (APHA,
AWWA, WEF, 21
st
Edition, 2005 or available online: Standard Methods for the Examination of
Water and Wastewater at www.standardmethods.org).
The proper collection, preservation, and storage of beach water samples are necessary to reduce
analytical errors. Bacteriological samples will be collected in polypropylene bottles with a
volume of at least 125 milliliters (ml), but no more than 1000 ml, to allow for adequate sample
mixing. To avoid contamination, the collection bottles must remain sealed until immediately
prior to sample collection. Initial samples will be collected between sunrise and noon. If results
exceed EPA’s recommended criteria, local contractors are required to collect additional samples
9
within two hours. If results are received late in the day, the additional samples may be collected
the following morning.
Sampling Depth
EPA’s Environmental Monitoring for Public Access and Community Tracking Beaches Project
(EMPACT Beaches Project Results from a Study on Microbiological Monitoring in Recreational
Waters, http://www.epa.gov/microbes/empact.pdf), (EPA 600/R-04/023) recommends samples
be collected in waist deep (~ 3 ft.) water, 0.3 m (~12 inches) from the surface. However,
according to discussions at the 2004 National Beaches Conference, EPA’s recommended
sampling depth may not be appropriate for samples collected in the swash zone. The swash zone
is defined as water one foot deep or less and is the area of water where children, an at risk
population, spend most of their time. In Texas waters, the swash zone usually contains large
amounts of sand and sediment due to wave action. Therefore, the Texas Beach Watch Program
will sample at approximately two feet or knee depth. The two-foot standing depth will apply
unless:
The majority of recreational activity occurs at a depth significantly different from two feet. If
this occurs, samples may be collected at the location of greatest swimmer activity; or
The two-foot standing depth occurs more than 50 meters (164 feet) from shore. If the two-foot
sampling depth occurs more than 50 meters from the shore, samples may be collected at 50
meters from shore or at the location of greatest swimmer activity. The distance shall be
measured from the approximate water line at the time of sampling.
The numbers of microorganisms in marine water samples are susceptible to rapid change due to
growth or death after collection. Therefore, to minimize change, samples will be held for the
shortest time possible. Standard protocol dictates holding times will be no longer than six hours.
Steps for the preservation and transit of collected water samples will be followed precisely or the
sample will not be analyzed and another sample will be collected. Bacteriological samples will
be stored in insulated containers and maintained at a temperature of <10 degrees Celsius as
described in section 8.1.2 of Method 1600 which states in part that "ice or refrigerate water
samples at a temperature of <10 degrees Celsius during transit to the laboratory."
Design Assumptions
When more than one sampling station exists on a beach, the sampling stations will be spaced
approximately 500 meters apart (500 meters = 1640.42 feet). However, due to the variability of
Gulf beach public access points, the 500-meter spacing may not be practicable. The majority of
recreational beach users congregate around public access points; therefore, samples will be
collected near access points.
Sample locations are included as part of the individual appendices for each local contractor. As
counties are added to the Texas Beach Watch Program, appendices will be added to document
sampling locations, contact information, and any other information specific to each county.
Samples will be collected weekly during the beach season (currently May-September) and
biweekly during the off-season (October-April). Circumstances may dictate modifications to
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sampling time and frequency for certain beaches. For example, during March sampling will be
conducted weekly on all Gulf beaches to account for the increase in the number of tourists
visiting during spring break.
Tuesday is the preferred sample collection day. Monday and Wednesday are alternate sample
collection days. This schedule allows time for re-sampling to occur, before the next regular
sampling period, when elevated bacteria levels are detected. Depending on the number of
beaches, stations, and travel distance, local contractors may require several days to collect
samples.
The local contractor’s field personnel currently document rainfall and tidal information on a
Field Observation Form to explain sample collection difficulties (for example: the current was
too strong to enter the water safely). The Sanitary Survey Project will incorporate the Marine
Beach Routine On-Site Survey in Appendix A. If a sample cannot be collected according to the
sampling schedule, field personnel will collect the samples as soon as possible to ensure re-
sampling can be conducted, if necessary, prior to the next sampling period. If sampling cannot
be conducted during the required period, the local contractor must inform the Coordinator during
that sampling period.
Samples must be processed as soon as possible after collection so the holding time limit does not
exceed six hours between collection and initiation of sample analyses.
The Texas Beach Watch Program contracted laboratories will be required to analyze samples
weekly and notify the Coordinator by entering sample results into the Texas Beach Watch
Program’s database within two hours. The database generates detailed email notifications to all
interested parties designated by the Coordinator.
3. Sampling Methods
Sanitary Survey Project
Procedures for CWSS Field Samplers/Monitors
The sampling method requirements for data collected during the Marine Beach Routine On-Site
Survey are listed in Table 1.
11
Table 1: Marine Beach Routine On-Site Survey Parameters.
PARAMETER
UNITS
MATRIX
METHOD
PARAMETER
CODES
Field Parameters
Present weather
1=Clear
2=Partly Cloudy < 50%
3=Cloudy > 50%
4=Rain
5=Drizzle
6=Fog
7=Other/Explain
NA
TCEQ
SOP
47501
Tide stage
1=low
2=falling
3=slack
4=rising
5=high
Water
TCEQ
SOP
84381
Air temperature
°C
Air
TCEQ
SOP
00020
Longshore Current
m/s
Water
NA
70225
Water color
1=Brown
2=Red
3=Green
4=Black
5=Clear
6=Other
Water
TCEQ
SOP
00081
Water Temperature
°C
Water
TCEQ
SOP
00010
pH
su
Water
TCEQ
SOP
00406
Turbidity
NTU
Water
82078
Tidal Pools
Present/Quantity #
NA
Water
NA
C87000
Average Size of Tidal
Pools
m
Water
NA
C87001
Days Since Last Rainfall
Days
NA
TCEQ
SOP
72053
Rainfall (inches past 1 day)
Inches
NA
TCEQ
SOP
82553
Rainfall (inches past 3
days)
Inches
NA
TCEQ
SOP
82371
Rainfall (inches past 7
days)
Inches
NA
TCEQ
SOP
82554
Wind intensity
1=Calm
2=Slight breeze
3=Moderate breeze
4=Strong wind
Slight=5-10 mph, Moderate =10-30 mph, Strong
>30 mph
Water
TCEQ
SOP
00035
Specific Conductance
S/cm
Water
TCEQ
SOP
00094
12
PARAMETER
UNITS
MATRIX
METHOD
PARAMETER
CODES
Dissolved Oxygen
Mg/L
Water
TCEQ
SOP
00300
Salinity
Ppt
Water
TCEQ
SOP
00480
Water Odor
1=Sewage
2=Oily/Chemical
3=Rotten eggs
4=Musky
5=Fishy
6=None
7=Other/Explain
Water
TCEQ
SOP
34773
Depth of Water Sample
ft
Water
TCEQ
SOP
00068
Wind direction
1=North
2=Northeast
3=East
4=Southeast
5=South
6=Southwest
7=West
8=Northwest
Air
TCEQ
SOP
00038
Water Surface or Intensity
1=Calm
2=Ripples
3=Waves
4=white Caps
Water
TCEQ
SOP
46001
mg/L = milligrams per liter; m/s = meters per second; ft = feet; m = meters; C = degrees Celsius; Ppt = parts-per-thousand; su = standard units;
Siemens per centimeter
NA = Not applicable
References for Table 1:
TCEQ SOP – TCEQ Surface Water Quality Monitoring Procedures Volume 1: Physical and Chemical Monitoring Methods for Water, Sediment
and Tissue (October 2008).
The following tables (Tables 2 and 3) contain a listing of the data to be collected during the
Sanitary Survey project during the Marine Beach Routine On-Site and the Marine Beach Annual
On-Site Surveys. SOP document numbers and parameter codes are included. The CWSS has
developed a Laboratory Method Manual, which is a collection of SOPs and other published
methods, containing detailed information on how to collect each parameter listed.
Table 2. Marine Beach Routine/Annual On-Site Survey Parameters.
SOP Number
Parameter
Parameter Code
Beach Use
SOP001
Swimming/Sunbathing
C87002
SOP002
Surfing/Windsurfing
C87003
SOP003
RVs on Beach
C87004
SOP004
Fishing/from Pier
C87005
SOP005
Watercraft
C87006
13
SOP Number
Parameter
Parameter Code
SOP006
Vehicles on Beach
C87007
SOP007
Fishing/from Shore
C87008
SOP008
Overnight Camping
C87009
SOP009
Other Types of Beach Use
C87010
Bather Load
SOP010
Humans on Land
C87011
SOP011
Humans in Water
C87012
SOP012
Total People at Beach
C87013
Sampling Site Information/Potential Pollution
Sources
SOP013
Evidence of Beach Maintenance
C87014
SOP014
Appropriate Removal of Trash
C87015
SOP015
Floatables Present
C87016
SOP016
Type of Floatables Found
C87017
SOP017
Litter Present
C87018
SOP018
Type of Litter / Debris Found
C87019
SOP019
Seaweed (Algae) Present in Water
C87020
SOP020
Seaweed (Algae) Present on Land
C87021
SOP021
Type of Seaweed (Algae) in Water
C87022
SOP022
Type of Seaweed (Algae) on Land
C87023
SOP023
Seagrass Present in Water
C87024
SOP024
Seagrass Present on Land
C87025
SOP025
Type of Seagrass in Water
C87026
SOP026
Type of Seagrass on Land
C87027
Presence or Evidence of Wildlife/Domestic
Animals
SOP027
Presence of Fish Alive
C87028
SOP028
Presence of Fish Dead
C87029
SOP029
Presence of Avian Alive
C87030
SOP030
Presence of Avian Dead
C87031
SOP031
Presence of Avian Fecal Droppings
C87032
SOP032
Presence of Jellyfish Alive
C87033
SOP033
Presence of Jellyfish Dead
C87034
SOP034
Presence of Canine Alive
C87035
SOP035
Presence of Canine Fecal Dropping
C87037
SOP036
Presence of Crabs Alive
C87038
14
SOP Number
Parameter
Parameter Code
SOP037
Presence of Crabs Dead
C87039
SOP038
Presence of Equine Alive
C87040
SOP039
Presence of Equine Dead
C87041
SOP040
Presence of Equine Fecal Droppings
C87042
Beach Measurements/Observations
SOP041
Z1 Width (m)
C87047
SOP041
Z2Width (m)
C87048
SOP041
Z3 Width (m)
C87049
SOP041
Z1 Slope %
C87050
SOP041
Z2 Slope %
C87051
SOP041
Z3 Slope %
C87052
Table 3. Marine Beach Annual On-Site Survey Parameters.
SOP Number
Type
Beach Materials/Sediment
Sediment/Material Type
SOP042
Sand
SOP042
Mud
SOP042
Rock
SOP042
Shell
Habitat Around Beach
Habitat Type
SOP043
Dunes
SOP043
Wetlands
SOP043
River/Stream
SOP043
Forest
SOP043
Park
SOP043
Urban/Boardwalk
SOP043
Protected Habitat or Reserve
Shellfish Growing Areas
Area Type
SOP044
Shellfish Growing Areas
Bounding Structures
Structure Type
SOP045
Jetty
SOP045
Groin
SOP045
Seawall
SOP045
Pier
SOP045
Natural Formation
15
SOP Number
Type
SOP045
Breakwater
Description of Sanitary Facilities
Facility Type
SOP046
Toilets
SOP046
Urinals
SOP046
Sinks
SOP046
Showers
Description of Other Facilities
Facility Type
SOP047
Bathhouse
SOP047
Restroom
SOP047
Portable Sanitary Unit
SOP047
Restaurant
SOP047
Marina
SOP047
Bar
SOP047
Parking Lot
SOP047
Fish cleaning Station
SOP047
Playground
SOP047
Dog Park
SOP047
Boat Pump Out
Disposal of Sanitary Wastes
Disposal Type
SOP048
Public Sewer
SOP048
Septic Field
SOP048
Pump Out
SOP048
On-Site Treatment
Observed Potential Pollution Sources
Source Type
SOP049
Wastewater discharges
SOP049
Sewage Overflows
SOP049
Septic Systems
SOP049
Subsurface Sewage Disposal
SOP049
Unsewered Areas
SOP049
Groundwater Seepage
SOP049
Bathhouse Leakage
SOP049
Drains and Pipes Nearby
SOP049
Stormwater Outfalls
SOP049
Erosion Prone Areas
SOP049
Vacant Areas
16
SOP Number
Type
SOP049
Wetland Drainage
SOP049
Rivers/Streams
SOP049
Landfills, Open Dumps
SOP049
Urban Runoff, Industrial Waste
SOP049
Agricultural Runoff
SOP049
Land Application of Biosolids and Manure
SOP049
CAFOs or AFOs
SOP049
Domestic Animals
SOP049
Wildlife
SOP049
Marinas, Harbors
SOP049
Mooring Boats
Photographs Taken
Image Type
SOP050
Photographs
Litterbins
Type
SOP051
Litterbins
Texas Beach Watch Project
Procedures for Local Contractors
The following procedures for sampling are based upon Appendix J of the National Beach
Guidance and Performance Criteria for Recreational Waters (EPA-823-B-02-004) June 2002.
Identify the sampling site on a chain of custody tag, if required, or on the bottle label and on a
field log sheet.
Remove the bottle covering and closure just before obtaining each sample and protect
them from contamination. Be careful not to touch the inside of the bottle itself or the
inside of the cover.
The first sample to be prepared is the trip blank (at least one per sampling day for routine
sampling is recommended). Open the sampling bottle and fill it with 100 ml of sterile
buffered dilution solution when collecting freshwater, estuarine, or marine water samples.
Cap the bottle and place it in a cooler. The trip blank will be used to verify samples have
been maintained at the correct temperature for transportation.
To collect the water samples, carefully move to the first sampling location. If wading in
the water, try to avoid kicking up bottom material at the sampling station. The sampler
should be positioned downstream of any water current to take the sample from the
incoming flow. Samples shall be collected in approximately two feet of water.
Open a sampling bottle, grasp it at the base with one hand, and plunge the bottle mouth
downward into the water to avoid introducing surface scum. Position the mouth of the
bottle into the current away from the hand of the sampler. The sampling depth should be
15 to 30 centimeters (6 to 12 inches) below the water surface, depending on the depth
17
from which the sample must be taken. Samples collected in less than the two foot
standing depth will collect the sample at the 15-centimeter (six inch) sampling depth to
avoid the collection of sedimentation. Allow time for sediment settling prior to collecting
the sample. If the water body is static, an artificial current can be created by moving the
bottle horizontally with the direction of the bottle pointed away from the sampler. Tip
the bottle slightly upward to allow air to exit and the bottle to fill.
Remove the bottle from the water body.
Pour out a small portion of the sample to allow an air space of 2.5 centimeters (1 to 2
inches) above each sample for proper mixing of the sample before analysis. [NOTE: If
the bottle contains any debris, contaminants, or excessive sediment/sand1, a new bottle
must be used. Do not discard the water sample and refill the bottle.]
Tightly close the stopper and label the bottle.
Enter specific details to identify the sample on a permanent label. Take care in
transcribing sampling information to the label. The label should be clean, waterproof,
non-smearing, and large enough for the necessary information. The label must be
securely attached to the sample bottle but removable when necessary. Preprinting
standard information on the label can save time in the field. The marking pen or other
device must be non-smearing and maintain a permanent legible mark.
Complete a Field Observation Form for each beach to record the full details on sampling
and other pertinent remarks, such as flooding, rain, or extreme temperature, that are
relevant to interpretation of the results. This record also provides a back-up record of
sample identification.
Place the samples in a suitable container and transport them to the laboratory as soon as
possible. Adhering to sample preservation and holding time limits is critical to the
production of valid data. Bacteriological samples should be iced or refrigerated at <10°C
during transit to the laboratory. Use insulated containers such as plastic or Styrofoam
coolers, if possible, to ensure proper maintenance of storage temperature. Take care to
ensure sample bottles are not totally immersed in water during transit or storage. Process
samples as soon as possible after collection. Do not hold samples longer than six hours
between collection and initiation of analysis (US Environmental Protection Agency,
2000). Do not analyze samples that exceed holding time limits.
Collect water samples for analyses of other parameters in separate appropriate containers
at the same time and perform analyses as specified in the particular methods.
After collecting samples from a station, wash hands and arms with alcohol wipes, a
disinfectant lotion, or soap and water, and dry to reduce exposure to potentially harmful
bacteria or other microorganisms.
1
Excessive sand or sediment will clog the filtration process and prevent bacteria colonies from
growing. It will be up to the sampler to determine what is considered excessive based on his or
her own experience.
18
Labeling the Samples
Each sample bottle shall be labeled with the following information:
Date and time of sample collection
Sampler’s name
Sample letters and station number (If more than one sample is collected at a station, identify
the first sample with the letter “A” after the station number, the second sample with the letter
“B” and so forth).
Samples must be processed as soon as possible after collection so the holding time limit does not
exceed six hours between collection and initiation of sample analyses. Samples will only be
delivered to Texas Beach Watch Program contracted laboratories.
4. Sample Handling and Custody Requirements
Chain of Custody (COC) procedures will be followed when samples are collected, transferred,
stored, and analyzed. The local contractor’s staff will follow sampling protocol and deliver
samples directly to a Texas Beach Watch Program contracted laboratory for analysis.
When samples are delivered to the laboratory, the local contractor and laboratory staff will
complete COC records required by the laboratory.
5. Analytical Methods Requirements
Local contractors will analyze the samples for Enterococci bacteria using EPA’s Method 1600:
Enterococci in Water by Membrane Filtration Using membrane-Enterococcus Indoxyl-ß-D-
Glucoside Agar (mEI) or the IDEXX Enterolert™ system. The specific method for each local
contractor is addressed by County in Appendix C, Unique Local Contractor Information.
6. Quality Control Requirements
Local contractors monitor coastal beach water quality. It is the responsibility of the local
contractor’s Project Manager to ensure field staff are properly trained and routinely monitored
for compliance with established protocols. The Project Manager will also be responsible for
periodically verifying the completeness of field sampling records prior to data entry.
The field technician will be responsible for sample handling and custody requirements for each
sample collected and transferred to the laboratory.
The Texas Beach Watch Program database was developed to meet requirements of the BEACH
Act. The database and Web-based data entry form were designed to minimize the possibility of
data entry errors. The Coordinator will periodically review and evaluate results entered into the
database.
The Texas Beach Watch Program will conduct an annual in-depth review of a local contractor’s
records and field sampling techniques to evaluate training methods and documentation
19
procedures. The review will include an assessment of the local contractor's adherence to the
criteria contained in the QAPP. Additional informal reviews of each laboratory may be
conducted during the year.
Specifying Measurement Performance Criteria
Performance criteria or Data Quality Indicators (DQIs) are qualitative and quantitative
descriptors used to interpret the degree of acceptability, or utility of the data. The principal DQIs
include precision, bias, representativeness, comparability, and completeness. Precision and bias
are quantitative measures. Representativeness and comparability are qualitative measures, and
completeness constitutes both a quantitative and qualitative measure.
Precision is the measure of agreement among replicate measurements of the same property,
under prescribed similar conditions. Local contractors will estimate field precision through the
sequential collection and measurement of two samples, 10% of the time. For every 10 stations
sampled, a second sample will be collected for comparison to the first sample. The two samples
will be used to calculate the relative percent difference described below. The second sample will
be entered into the database and used to calculate the station average. Field personnel will assess
precision on a regular basis to determine sampling performance.
The precision of laboratory analyses is estimated by analyzing two or more aliquots (duplicates)
of the same water sample. The precision analysis procedures used by a laboratory are included
in each local contractor’s QA/QC plan. QA/QC is assessed in the laboratory on a regular basis
and the laboratory shall maintain records of the assessment.
The precision DQI is obtained from two duplicate samples by calculating the relative percent
difference (RPD) as follows:
RPD = ((|C1-C2|)/ ((C1+C2)/2)) * 100%
C1 is the first of the two values and C2 is the second value. An RPD of less than or equal to 60
percent between field duplicates microbiological analyses could be considered acceptable
because of the heterogeneity of bacteria populations in surface waters. When laboratory
duplicates are analyzed, precision of the test will be expressed in terms of standard deviation and
the ability to detect the target organism. Analysts should duplicate bacterial colony counts on the
same membrane within five percent, and other analysts’ counts within ten percent; otherwise,
procedures should be reviewed and corrective action implemented.
Bias - is the systematic or persistent distortion of a measurement process that causes errors in
one direction (USEPA 2002a). Bias assessments for environmental measurements are typically
based on analysis of spiked samples, which is not feasible for microbiological samples. It is
assumed bias will be minimized in this study by close adherence to SOPs and QA plans.
Accuracy - is the degree of agreement between an observed value and an accepted reference or
true value. Accuracy is a combination of random error (precision) and systematic error (bias),
both of which are due to sampling and analytical operations (USEPA 2002a). Accuracy is
20
estimated by comparing the measured value to its “true” value. Because microbiological
analysis measures constantly changing living populations, the true values cannot be known.
Accordingly, accuracy, like bias, is difficult to assess for microbiological analyses. However,
because indicator organism density estimates are assumed to have minimum bias, accuracy
equates to precision, which will be rigorously assessed.
Representativeness, comparability, and completeness are of particular concern to field sampling
staff. Representativeness is the degree to which data accurately and precisely represents the
characteristics of a population. One method for ensuring representativeness includes the
evaluation of the sampling design to determine whether the sampled area is typical and
representative of each area of concern. The Texas Beach Watch Program ensures
representativeness by sampling coastal waters near beaches used for public recreation.
Comparability is the qualitative term that expresses the confidence two data sets contribute to a
common analysis and interpolation. Comparability must be evaluated carefully to establish
whether two data sets can be considered equivalent with regard to the measurement of a specific
variable or groups of variables. In laboratory analyses, the term comparability focuses on
method type comparison, holding times, stability issues, and aspects of overall analytical
quantitation. Sampling based on similar geographic and seasonal characteristics; adequate
training of field sampling and laboratory personnel and the use of standardized sampling and
analysis methods ensure comparability.
Completeness is a measure of the amount of valid data obtained from a measurement system.
Completeness is expressed as a percent of the number of valid measurements that should have
been collected (i.e., measurements planned for collection). Every effort is made to avoid sample
and/or data loss through accidents.
Percent completeness (%C) for measurement parameters is defined as follows:
%C = v/T X 100
Where, v = the number of measurements judged valid and T = the total number of
measurements. To recommend an advisory, the Texas Beach Watch Program requires one
sample be collected at a given site. The result is compared to the standard criteria to determine if
an advisory is warranted. The sample collected at the site must be deemed valid prior to an
advisory being recommended. The completeness goal for valid decisions at each site is 100%.
The Texas Beach Watch Program database includes measures to prevent the omission of data
necessary to ensure the completeness measure.
7. Instrument Testing, Inspection, Maintenance, Calibration and Frequency
Testing, inspection, maintenance, and calibration of laboratory equipment will be conducted
according to laboratory QA/QC manuals, and as specified by the equipment manufacturer.
21
Local contractors employing the IDEXX Enterolert™ system for enumerating Enterococcus may
require special equipment including the IDEXX Quanti-Tray® Sealer with insert along with the
required supplies.
8. Inspection/Acceptance of Supplies/Consumables
Project Managers will be responsible for ensuring all supplies and consumables are appropriate
and acceptable. The Texas Beach Watch Program requires all samples to be collected in
sterilized polypropylene bottles with a volume of at least 125 milliliters (ml), but no more than
1000 ml. In addition, laboratories will not accept collection containers if the individual
containers or the delivery container are not properly closed or sealed.
Laboratories that re-use sample bottles should make sure the decontamination procedures are
readily available at the lab and consistent with the practices identified in “EPA Method 1600,
Appendix A”; thoroughly clean with detergent and hot water, hot water rinse conducted to
remove all trace amounts of detergent, and triple rinse with laboratory pure water.
9. Data Management
Data Recording
Water quality results are entered into the Texas Beach Watch Program database via the Web.
The Texas Beach Watch Program will assess the data for completeness and errors on a periodic
basis. The Project Manager will be notified of discrepancies by email or fax as soon as
practicable. The nature of the data and the subsequent analyses must be consistent to allow data
sets to be compared.
Data Validation
Data will be validated and verified based on the following factors:
Completeness of data;
Adherence to proper sample preservation, transport, and handling protocols;
Proper sample collection procedures;
Proper quality control criteria;
Documentation of all data (including QC data);
Ability to reconstruct field sampling procedures through documentation and records;
Ability to trace data to specific sampling sites, dates, and times; and
Appropriateness of the data based on specific data quality objectives / indicators.
Laboratory verification procedures will be outlined for each laboratory in their QA/QC manual,
guidance, or procedural documentation. Validation confirms that requirements for specific
intended uses have been fulfilled and that data is systematically examined to determine technical
usability with respect to planned objectives. Project Managers or their designees are responsible
for reviewing field-sampling reports before data is entered in the system.
22
C. ASSESSMENT/OVERSIGHT
1. Assessment and Response Actions
Assessment Activities and Project Planning
The Coordinator is responsible for the preliminary assessment and oversight of the program,
including contract management procedures for the allocation of BEACH Act funds to local
contractors. Additionally, the Coordinator will periodically review data submitted to the Texas
Beach Watch Program database to identify possible trends and to ensure QAPP requirements are
met. QA assessment results, to include RPD calculations of replicate samples, will be reported
to EPA on an annual basis (in every other semiannual report) as required by the cooperative
agreement between EPA and the GLO.
GLO will perform an annual review of a local contractor’s laboratory to ensure their protocols
are consistent with the QAPP. If the review finds a local contractor not adhering to the QAPP,
the local contractor will be required to take corrective action to address the deficiency. Failure to
do so will result in possible financial penalties (withholding of payment until corrected) or
termination of contract.
Documentation of Assessments and Reports to Management
Data quality will be assessed as part of the annual review to ensure adherence to the QAPP. The
Contractor and Data Review template (Appendix D) will be completed by the Quality Assurance
Officer or Coordinator to document the results of the review and any corrective action taken in
the local contractor’s data file. This information will be included in semiannual reports to EPA.
Supplemental reports will be submitted as warranted.
23
D. DATA VALIDATION AND USABILITY
1. Data Review, Validation, and Verification Requirements
Sampling Design
Changes to sampling location and/or frequency of sampling will occur on a yearly basis or as
needed and will be documented in Appendix B. In addition, as new local contractors are added
to the Texas Beach Watch Program, Appendix B will be updated to include new site locations, in
order of importance, frequency of sampling, number of stations per beach, site maps of all
beaches and stations, contact information and other relevant information.
Sample Collection Procedures
Samples must be collected according to the protocol described in Section B, Data Generation and
Acquisition, Subsection 2, Sampling Methods, of the QAPP. If sampling protocol is not
followed, the samples will not be analyzed and replacement samples will be collected according
to protocol.
Sample Handling
Project Managers will routinely check storage containers to ensure samples are stored and
transported under conditions that will not adversely affect sample quality. Chain of custody
documentation will be conducted according to each local contractor’s QA/QC procedures. If
samples are not handled properly, laboratories shall refuse the samples and collection of
replacement samples will be required.
Analytical Procedures
Texas Beach Watch Program contracted laboratories must have the capability to analyze samples
weekly. Laboratory staff must be qualified to use the required instruments and must be familiar
with techniques necessary to analyze water quality samples. Laboratory SOPs related to COC,
instrumentation, and technique are provided in laboratory QA/QC manuals. Laboratory
personnel will utilize EPA Method 1600
2
or the IDEXX Enterolert™ for the detection of
Enterococci. Laboratory supervisors may request copies from the EPA’s National Service
Center for Environmental Publications (http://www.epa.gov/ncepihom). The Method 1600
document is also available at http://www.epa.gov/waterscience/methods/. Information pertaining
to Enterolert™ may be found at http://www.idexx.com/water/enterolert/.\
Quality Control
Sampling quality control measures will be applied as discussed in Section B, Data Generation
and Acquisition, Subsection 5, Quality Control Requirements, while laboratory quality control
activities will be conducted according to the laboratory’s QA/QC manual.
Calibration
Instruments will be calibrated according to the laboratory’s QA/QC manual and as recommended
by the manufacturer. Data not conforming to sampling protocols or laboratory handling and
2
USEPA. July 2006 or September 2002. Method 1600: Enterococci in Water by Membrane
Filtration Using membrane-Enterococcus Indoxyl-[beta]-D-Glucoside Agar (mEI). U.S.
Environmental Protection Agency, Office of Water, Washington, DC EPA-821-R-06-009.
24
analysis protocols will not be used. Laboratory analysis protocols include the calibration and
verification of instruments to manufacturer and/or method specifications.
Data Reduction and Processing
Loss of detail in data will be avoided by periodically reviewing the data entered and by following
procedures for data reduction and processing activities described in the laboratory’s QA/QC
manual.
2. Validation and Verification Methods
Validation and verification activities will be performed during annual reviews of a local
contractor and as described in Section B, Data Generation and Acquisition, Subsection 8, Data
Management, and the laboratory’s QA/QC manual. The local contractor maintains and reviews
sampling and analytical data as the data is generated.
The GLO will assess and review the online data submitted on a monthly basis. The assessment
activities will include the continual or frequent monitoring of the status of a project and the
analysis of records to ensure specified requirements are being fulfilled. Key project personnel
(Project Managers) are responsible for surveillance of the program under their control; however,
the Texas Beach Watch Coordinator monitors data entry through the various queries that
generate Summary Reports in EPA’s Monitoring and Notification Databases. These Summary
Reports in addition to Summary Reports generated for billing comparisons will be used for
validation and verification of data entered by the Contractors. Any corrective action taken to
remedy deficiencies will be documented.
Reconciliation with User Objectives
The Texas Beach Watch Program is designed to support the intended use of results through the
compilation of water quality data. The Texas Beach Watch Program will analyze data for
correlation between environmental factors and water quality results to determine the feasibility
of predictive models.
If serious deficiencies are noted in data quality, the data may be reported to EPA with an
appropriate data qualifier or not reported with an explanation. The data qualifier will be
identified in the Monitoring Database, Activity table comments field. The appropriate action
will be performed in consultation with EPA Region 6 personnel.
If serious discrepancies are noted, appropriate action may include the cessation of advisories
until the deficiency is resolved. The resolution will consist of written communication to address
and identify a solution and implement correction action. A follow up lab visit may be conducted.
A-1
APPENDIX A - MARINE BEACH SANITARY SURVEY FORMS
A-2
Marine Beach Routine On-Site Survey
Date Time Sample(s) Collected Time Sample(s) Delivered to Lab
Name of Beach / ID Sampling Station ID
Sampler’s / Monitor’s Names
Site Conditions:
PARAMETER
VALUE
PARAMETER
VALUE
Present Weather (47501)
1=Clear, 2=Partly Cloudy < 50% , 3=Cloudy > 50%, 4=Rain,
5=Drizzle, 6=Fog, 7=Other/Explain
Wind Intensity (00035)
1=Calm, 2=Slight Breeze, 3=Moderate Breeze, 4=Strong Wind
Slight (5-10 mph) Moderate (10-30 mph) Strong >30 mph
Tide Stage (84381)
1=Low, 2=Falling, 3=Slack, 4=Rising, 5=High
Water Surface or Intensity (46001)
1=Calm, 2=Ripples, 3=Waves, 4=White Caps
Air Temperature °C (00020)
Wind Direction (00038)
1=N, 2=NE, 3=E, 4=SE, 5=S, 6=SW, 7=W, 8=NW
Longshore Current m/sec (70225)
Depth of Water Sample ft (00068)
Water Color (00081)
1=Brown, 2=Red, 3=Green, 4=Black, 5=Clear, 6= Other
Water Odor (34773)
1=Sewage, 2=Oily/Chemical, 3=Rotten Eggs, 4=Musky,
5=Fishy, 6=None, 7=Other/Explain
Water Temperature °C (00010)
Salinity ppt (00480)
pH SU (00406)
Dissolved Oxygen mg/L (00300)
Turbidity NTU (82078)
Specific Conductance Siemens/cm (00094)
Tidal Pools Present/Quantity # (C87000)
Average size of Tidal Pools m (C87001)
Days Since Last Rainfall (72053)
Rainfall - Inches past 1 day (82553)
Rainfall - Inches past 3 days (82371)
Rainfall - Inches past 7 days (82554)
Comments:
Beach Use (COUNT):
PARAMETER
VALUE
PARAMETER
VALUE
PARAMETER
VALUE
Swimming/Sunbathing (C87002)
Surfing/Windsurfing (C87003)
RVs on Beach (C87004)
Fishing from Pier (C87005)
Watercraft (C87006)
Vehicles on Beach (C87007)
Fishing from Shore (C87008)
Overnight Camping (C87009)
Other (C87010)
Comments:
Bather Load (COUNT):
PARAMETER
VALUE
PARAMETER
VALUE
PARAMETER
VALUE
Humans on Land (A) (C87011)
Humans in Water (B) (C87012)
Total People at Beach (A+B)
(C87013)
A-3
Sampling Site Information/Potential Pollution Sources: Slight =1-20% Moderate =21-50% High >50%
PARAMETER
VALUE
Evidence of Beach Maintenance (C87014)
0=None 1=Sand raked 2=Sand leveled 3=Construction
Appropriate Removal of Trash? (C87015)
0=Yes 1=No, overflowing trash bins 2=No, trash receptacles not present 3=No, trash bins available and unused
Floatables Present? (C87016)
0=None 1=Slight 2=Moderate 3=Heavy
Type of Floatables Found (C87017)
0=None 1=Street litter 2=Food related 3=Medical items 4=Household 5=Sewage related 6=Construction materials 7=Fishing related
8=Tar/Oil 9=Biological 10=Other
Litter Present? (C87018)
0=None 1=Slight 2=Moderate 3=Heavy
Type of Litter/Debris Found (C87019)
0=None 1=Street litter 2=Food related 3=Medical items 4=Household 5=Sewage related 6=Construction materials 7=Fishing related
8=Tar/Oil 9=Biological 10=Other
PARAMETER
In
Water
On
Land
Seaweed (Algae) Present? (C87020 – in water, C87021 – on land)
0=None 1=Slight 2=Moderate 3=Heavy
Type of Seaweed (Algae) (C87022 – in water, C87023 – on land)
0=None 1=Ulva 2= Chaetomorpha 3=Cladophora 4=Acetabularia 5=Sargassum 6=Ectocarpus 7=Digenea 8=Palisada 9=Gracilaria
10=Chondria 11=Jania
Seagrass Present? (C87024 – in water, C87025 – on land)
0=None 1=Slight 2=Moderate 3=Heavy
Type of Seagrass (C87026 – in water, C87027 – on land)
0=None 1=Halodule 2=Halophila 3=Thlassia 4=Cymodoceae
Comments:
Presence or Evidence of Wildlife/Domestic Animals (COUNT):
PARAMETER
Alive
Dead
PARAMETER
Alive
Dead
Fecal Droppings
Degree of Presence
( 1=Low, 2=Moderate,
4=High)
Fish (C87028 – alive,
C87029 – dead)
Avian (C87030 – alive, C87031 - dead,
C87032 – fecal droppings)
Jellyfish (C87033 – alive,
C87034 – dead)
Canine (C87035 – alive, C87036 - dead,
C87037 – fecal droppings)
Crabs (C87038 – alive,
C87039 – dead)
Equine (C87040 – alive, C87041 - dead,
C87042 – fecal droppings)
Other Specify:
Other Specify: (C87043 – alive, C87044 -
dead, C87045 – fecal droppings)
Comments:
A-4
Marine Beach Annual On-Site Survey
Name of Beach/ID Date of Survey
City/County/State Name of Waterbody
Name of Surveyors
Surveyor Affiliation Organization STORET ID
Beach Measurements/Observations:
Length (C87046) ___________(m) Average Width (Z1+Z2+Z3/3) ____________(m) Average beach slope ____________%
Width (m)
Slope %
Latitude
Longitude
Location
Measurement
Location
Measurement
Z1 (C87047)
Z1 (C87050)
Z2 (C87048)
Z2 (C87051)
Z3 (C87049)
Z3 (C87052)
Beach materials/sediment:
Name of Lab Analyzing Sediment Samples________________________________________________________________
Location
Sample ID
Time Sample
Collected
Time Delivered to
Lab
Type of Sediment/Material (C87053)
1=Sand, 2=Mud, 3=Rock, 4=Shell, 5=Other
Z1
Z2
Z3
Habitat around beach: Dunes Wetlands River/Stream Forest Park Urban/Boardwalk
Protected habitat or Reserve Other
Description of any Shellfish Growing Areas including size and distance to swimming areas:
Bounding Structures: (Type*: 1=jetty, 2=groin, 3=seawall, 4=pier, 5=natural formation 6=breakwater, 7=other)
Type of
Structure*
Location
Length
(m)
Orientation
azimuth
How was it
measured?
G=GPS, M=Map,
P=Physical measurement
Description or Comments
Latitude
Longitude
Observation of how the bounding structures affect water circulation at the beach:
A-5
Description of Sanitary Facilities and Other Facilities:
Total number: Toilets Urinals Sinks Showers
(Facility Type* 1=bathhouse, 2=restroom, 3=portable sanitary unit, 4=restaurant, 5=marina, 6=bar, 7=parking lot 8=fish
cleaning station, 9=playground, 10=dog park, 11=boat pump out, 12=other)
Facility
ID
Type*
Sanitary Facilities
Location
Condition
(Good, Fair or
Poor)
Distance
to water
(meters)
Disposal of
sanitary
wastes
1=public sewer
2=septic field
3=pump out
4=on-site
treatment
5=other
How
often it is
Cleaned
(Daily,
Weekly,
Monthly)
Toilet
Urinal
Sink
Shower
Latitude
Longitude
Litterbins: Total number of Litterbins
Number or ID
Location
Condition
(Good, Fair or
Poor)
Distance to
Bathing Area
(m)
Frequency of emptying
(Daily, Weekly, Monthly)
Description or Comments
Latitude
Longitude
Describe whether number and location of sanitary facilities and litterbins are adequate to support beach use:
A-6
Observed Potential Pollution Sources:
Type of source
Level of
Concern (High,
Medium, or Low)
Distance
to Water
line (m)
Location
Estimated
Flow
(ft
3
/s)
Comments
Latitude
Longitude
Wastewater discharges
Sewage overflows
Septic systems
Subsurface sewage disposal
Unsewered areas
Groundwater seepage
Bathhouse leakage
Drains and pipes nearby
Stormwater outfalls
Erosion prone areas
Vacant areas
Wetland Drainage
Rivers/Streams
Type of source
Level of
Concern (High,
Medium or Low )
Distance to
Water line
(m)
Location
Estimated
Flow
(ft
3
/s)
Comments
Latitude
Longitude
Landfills, open dumps
Urban runoff, Industrial waste
Agricultural runoff
Land application of biosolids
and manure
CAFOs or AFOs
Domestic animals
Wildlife
Marinas, harbors
Mooring boats
Other:
Other
Other:
Other:
Photos Taken:
Number
File Name
Description of Photo
Number
File Name
Description of Photo
Additional comments:
A-7
Marine Beach Annual Analysis
Name of Beach/ID
City/County/State Period of Analysis
Name of Waterbody Sampling Station Ids
Number of Routine Surveys Analyzed Name of Analyst
Analyst’s Affiliation Organization STORET ID
Average Weather Conditions:
What are the dates of the beach season? Start: End:
Period
Average Air
Temperature
o
C
Average Water
Temperature
o
C
Rainfall (in)
Number of
significant
rain events
(> 0.1”)
Typical Weather Conditions
1=Clear, 2=Partly Cloudy, 3=Cloudy, 4=Rain,
5=Drizzle, 6=Fog, 7=Other/Explain
Average
Total
Beach Season
Spring
Summer
Fall
Winter
Winds:
Prevailing wind speed: Prevailing wind direction: How does the prevailing wind
blow? From beach to water: From water to beach: Across the beach sand interface:
Waves:
Describe the typical wave conditions during the beach season:
Tides:
Tide extent: Mean High: Mean Low: Do tides create cross current?
How does the tidal flow manifest itself?
Characterize any longshore or nearshore currents:
Do any tidal rivers or streams that discharge near the beach have any correlation to elevated bacteria concentrations? If yes, describe
flow, tidal influence, salinity, proximity to swimming area, etc.:
Describe the relationship of tidal flow to known point or nonpoint pollution sources:
Description of hydrometric network (note that this is a network of monitoring stations that collect data such as rainfall and stream
flow):
A-8
Erosion/Accretion Measurements:
High
Watermark
Location
Identification
Location of High
Watermark
Fixed Object Description (e.g., tree,
building, mile marker, etc.)
Distance from Fixed
Object to High
Watermark (m)
Distance between
High Watermark
Locations (m)
Latitude
Longitude
A
A B
B
B C
C
C D
D (optional)
D E
E (optional)
How do erosion/accretion measurements compare to data from previous years?
Explain how the bounding structures affect water circulation at the beach:
Assess whether the bounding structures might affect bacteria concentrations at the beach:
Lab Analysis of Beach Material/Sediment:
Sample ID
Mean Grain Size
Diameter
Uniformity Coefficient
Date of Collection
Name of Lab Used for Analysis
Average
Describe the results and conclusion of the sediment analysis and potential effects of the sediment distribution at this beach:
Biological Survey Results:
Algae blooms observed during the beach season:
Date
Observed
Species
Color
1= Green 2=Red 3=Brown
Duration of Bloom
Location
1=Nearshore 2=On beach
Percent of beach season where algae was present in significant amounts? 1=None, 2=Low (1-20%), 3=Moderate (21-50%), 4=High
(> 50%) Nearshore water: On Beach:
Types of algae found:
A-9
Describe any shellfish growing areas near the beach, including size, distance to swimming area, condition, issues and results of any
shellfish sanitary surveys:
List any infectious snails or any other dangerous aquatic organisms that were found:
Were a significant number of dead birds found on the beach during the beach season? If so, describe types, numbers found and
possible causes:
Were a significant number of dead fish found on the beach during the beach season? If so, describe types, numbers found and
possible cause:
Description of Land Use in Watershed:
Percentage of current land use in watershed:
Residential: Industrial: Commercial: Agricultural: Other:
Development
Percentage
Description
Undeveloped
Developed
How was land use measured?
Have you performed visual screening to isolate discharge areas during dry and wet weather? If yes, explain:
Are there any discharge reports available for discharges in the watershed? If yes, attach report or pertinent sections and summarize
here, including permit limits for bacteria:
Have any sources been remediated, or have steps been taken to remediate sources? If yes, explain:
A-10
Beach Use:
Is bather load measured? If so, describe how numbers are calculated (i.e., turnstile, counting at noon, photographs etc.):
Frequency of measurements of bathers and beach activities. (e.g. daily, weekly, monthly):
Beachgoer Category
Number of People Per Day Using Beach
Peak Use for the
Season
Seasonal
Average
Holiday
Average
Weekend
Average
Weekday
Average
Off-Season
Average (if
applicable)
Total People In the Water
(A)
Total People Out of the
Water (B)
Total People at the Beach
(A+B)
Examine bather load data along with sampling results for the past beach season. Look at each sampling point or different area of the
beach (light use vs. heavy use).
Does the bather load appear to correlate with bacteria concentrations at any of these areas?
Does the number of people in the water correlate with bacteria concentrations?
Has a statistical analysis been done? Describe:
Breakdown of Activities at Beach (Percentage of time activity was observed on Beach from data collected on Routine On Site
Surveys)
Activity
Percentage of Time Observed
Beach Season
Spring
Summer
Fall
Winter
Swimming/Sunbathing
Fishing/from Pier
Fishing/from Shore
Surfing/Windsurfing
Watercraft
Overnight Camping
RVs on Beach
Vehicles on Beach
Other :
Other:
Other:
Other:
Other:
Notes:
A-11
Beach Cleaning:
Natural or Engineered beach? (include year engineered and source of sand):
Leveling
of Sand
Trimming or
Removing
Vegetation
Removing
Debris
Removing
Trash
Construction and Maintenance
of a Temporary Pathway
Directly to Open Water
Other
Frequency
During Season
(Daily, Weekly,
Monthly)
Equipment used
Description and date of last beach rehabilitation (i.e., new sand including source, nourishment, dredging, etc.):
Water Quality Sampling:
Name of Laboratory Analyzing samples:
NELAC certified. Yes No Distance to laboratory: miles.
Year water quality monitoring began:
What is the normal time frame between sample collection and arrival at the lab?
Where in the water are water quality measurements taken?
Is there a sampling and analysis plan? Is it adequate?
Are sampling staff properly trained on sampling techniques, equipment maintenance and calibration procedures?
Total number of samples collected including resamples?
Did you sample within 3 days of significant rainfall?
A-12
Description of Sample Points (include beach water and any potential pollution sources)
Sample
Point ID
Location
Description
Sampling
Frequency
Collection
Time
Tidal Stage at
Collection Time
Latitude
Longitude
How does the water quality data compare to the data from previous years?
Are water quality annual trend data attached?
Were there any unusual results, such as extremely high or low values detected or unusual trends? If yes, explain what was found and
any potential causes:
Have you tested for stormwater cross-connections within the sanitary sewer? If yes, explain:
A-13
Bacteria samples collected at beach:
Type of Bacteria
Was testing performed?
Analytical Method Used
Yes
No
Escherichia coli
Enterococcus
Fecal coliform
Other:
Other:
Do you composite any bacterial samples? If yes, explain:
How does this past season’s bacteria results compare to that of previous years? (Describe in detail analyses that were performed on
the data):
Have you conducted bacterial source tracking? If yes, explain:
Did you collect bacteria samples from any potential pollution sources, such as streams and outfalls? (Describe in detail analyses that
were performed on the data):
Based on your understanding of the beach, which fecal pollution sources are most likely to impact the levels of bacteria at the beach?
If you have specific concerns about any of the fecal pollution sources as sources of specific pathogens, please describe:
Comments:
A-14
Health Concerns:
Has this beach been associated with any of the following? If so, list further details:
Cases of swimmer’s itch:
Outbreaks of diarrheal disease:
High incidence of skin infections:
High incidence of skin rashes:
High incidence of ear infections:
Other adverse health issues or concerns:
A-15
Advisories/Closings:
Total number of Advisories issued: Total number of Closings issued:
Total number of days under an Advisory: Total number of days beach was Closed:
Is this beach on the 303(d) list or recognized as impaired? If yes, specify.
Type of
Event
1=Advisory
2=Closing
Start
Date
End Date
Length of
Advisory or
Closing (Days)
Did Bacteria
Concentrations
Exceed GM or
SSM Criteria
Reason for Advisory/Closing or Possible Contributing
Factors (e.g. stormwater runoff, sewage spill or wildlife on beach)
Additional comments:
A-16
Correlation of Parameters and Elevated Bacteria Concentrations:
Examine the data collected from the routine surveys over the prior beach season along with the bacteria sampling results. Do the
bacteria concentrations at this beach appear to correlate with any of the following parameters?
Parameter
Correlation
Degree of
correlation
calculated by
statistical
analysis
Further Explanation
Yes
No
Yes
No
Cloud Cover
Air Temperature
Wind Intensity
Water Surface or
Intensity
Wind Direction
Tide Stage
Longshore
Current
Depth Sample
Taken
Rainfall
Tidal Pools
Water
Temperature
Water Color
Water Odor
Salinity
Specific
Conductance
pH
Turbidity
Dissolved
Oxygen
Total People at
Beach
Swimming
/Sunbathing
Fishing / on Pier
Vehicles on
Beach
RVs on Beach
Overnight
Camping
A-17
Parameter
Correlation
Degree of
correlation
calculated by
statistical
analysis
Further Explanation
Yes
No
Yes
No
Watercraft
Surfing/
Windsurfing
Beach
Maintenance
Presence of
Floatables
Litter
Seaweed/ Algae
Seagrass
Gulls
Pigeons
Other Avian
Species
Fishing /from
Shore
Fecal Droppings
Fish
Jellyfish
Crabs
Turtles
Other Marine
Species
Canines
Horses
Other Mammals
Other
A-18
Calculate proximity to bathing area of all Observed Potential Pollution Sources. Analyze and assess impact of source to the bathing
area.
Describe any analyses done:
Modeling and Other Studies:
Are models being used? If yes, list types and descriptions of the models:
A-19
Maps:
List maps and their sources:
Are maps attached? Beach: Watershed:
Do the maps include
locations of:
Yes
No
NA
Comment
Measurement/Sediment
Sample points
Water Sample Points
Hydrometric Network
All Observed Pollutant
Sources
Boat Traffic
Marinas
Boat Dockage
Fishing
Bathing/Swimming
Jetty
Groin
Seawall
Piers
Natural Formations
Breakwater
Other Bounding Structures
Bathhouses
Restrooms
Portable Sanitary Units
Fish Cleaning Stations
Dog Parks
Restaurants/ Bars
Playground
Parking Lot
Shellfish Growing Areas
Other
A-20
Additional Comments:
B-1
APPENDIX B - DATA DICTIONARY
B-2
Texas Marine Beaches Sanitary Survey
Data Dictionary
June 2013
B-3
Beach Table (BEACH)
Description: This table is used to store data relating to the location and description of the individual beaches.
Each record must contain a unique Beach ID along with the Beach name and FIPS code.
FIELD NAME
DATA
TYPE
(SIZE)
REQ’D
INDEXED
DESCRIPTION
BEACH_ID
Text (9)
Yes
Yes (No
Duplicates)
Unique 8-digit alphanumeric code identifying beach
and State. TX111111 format.
The following is a listing of the Beach ID and name of
the corresponding beach analyzed for this project.
TX139394 = NUECES BAY CAUSEWAY #3
TX149569 = UNIVERSITY BEACH
TX199413 = EMERALD BEACH
TX227625 = PACKERY CHANNEL PARK
TX259473 = COLE PARK
TX289381 = KAUFER-HUBERT MEMORIAL PARK #3
TX305317 = CORPUS CHRISTI MARINA
TX314643 = PADRE BALI PARK
TX315916 = PORT ARANSAS-SOUTH
TX339922 = KAUFER-HUBERT MEMORIAL PARK #2
TX396020 = MUSTANG ISLAND
TX442541 = JFK CAUSEWAY-SW
TX471201 = KAUFER-HUBERT MEMORIAL PARK #1
TX536781 = MCGEE BEACH
TX538780 = LIGHTHOUSE LAKE
TX546628 = CORPUS CHRISTI BEACH-MAIN
TX551380 = MUSTANG ISLAND STATE PARK
TX607336 = JP LUBY PARK
TX682648 = POENISCH PARK
TX722300 = PORT ARANSAS PARK
TX748844 = ROCKPORT BEACH PARK
TX821303 = ROPES PARK
TX937228 = LAGUNA SHORES
TX948394 = RIVERIA BEACH PIER
B-4
FIELD NAME
DATA
TYPE
(SIZE)
REQ’D
INDEXED
DESCRIPTION
BEACH_NAME
Text (50)
Yes
Yes (No
Duplicates)
Name of the Beach in alphabetized.
The following is a listing of the name of the beach
identified for this project and the corresponding
Beach ID.
COLE PARK = TX259473
CORPUS CHRISTI BEACH-MAIN = TX546628
CORPUS CHRISTI MARINA = TX305317
EMERALD BEACH = TX199413
JFK CAUSEWAY-SW = TX442541
JP LUBY PARK = TX607336
KAUFER-HUBERT MEMORIAL PARK #1 =
TX471201
KAUFER-HUBERT MEMORIAL PARK #2 = TX339922
KAUFER-HUBERT MEMORIAL PARK #3 = TX289381
LAGUNA SHORES = TX937228
LIGHTHOUSE LAKE = TX538780
MCGEE BEACH = TX536781
MUSTANG ISLAND = TX396020
MUSTANG ISLAND STATE PARK = TX551380
NUECES BAY CAUSEWAY #3 = TX139394
PACKERY CHANNEL PARK = TX227625
PADRE BALI PARK = TX314643
POENISCH PARK = TX682648
PORT ARANSAS PARK = TX722300
PORT ARANSAS-SOUTH = TX315916
RIVERIA BEACH PIER = TX948394
ROCKPORT BEACH PARK = TX748844
ROPES PARK = TX821303
UNIVERSITY BEACH = TX149569
FIPS
Text (6)
Yes
Yes
(Duplicates
OK)
Federal Information Processing Standard - Unique 5-
digit numeric code identifying County and
geographical area.
The following lists the FIPS code and corresponding
County name.
48007 = Aransas County
48273 = Kleberg County
48355 = Nueces County
48409 = San Patricio County
COUNTY
Text (50)
Yes
No
County in which the beach is located in capital
letters.
STATE
Text (3)
Yes
No
Abbreviation of State in which the beach is located in
a capital letter 2-character format.
B-5
FIELD NAME
DATA
TYPE
(SIZE)
REQ’D
INDEXED
DESCRIPTION
WATERBODY
Text (50)
Yes
No
Name of waterbody associated with the beach in
capital letters. If name consists of more than one
word, spaces are populated with an
underscore. Ex. “GULF_OF_MEXICO”.
COMMENTS
Text (255)
No
No
Optional description or comments related to beach.
B-6
Bounding Structures Table (BOUND_STRUC)
Description: This table is used to store data relating to any bounding structures natural or fabricated that
border or exist within a beach’s boundaries. Each record must contain the type of structure, length and location
identified by latitude and longitude.
FIELD NAME
DATA
TYPE
(SIZE)
REQ’D
INDEXED
DESCRIPTION
EVID
Text (27)
Yes
Yes
(Duplicates
OK)
26-character alpha numeric Event ID comprised of
Beach ID, Sample Location ID, Date and Event
Type ID. Ex. – TX748844_ANL000_20130115_2
CODE_TYPE_BND_STRUC
Text(3)
Yes
Yes
(Duplicates
OK)
Numeric code identifying the type of bounding
structure. Refer to REF_TYPE_BND_STRUC
table.
The following lists the codes for the types of
bounding structures and the assigned meanings.
1 = JETTY
2 = GROIN
3 = SEAWALL
4 = PIER
5 = NATURAL FORMATION
6 = BREAKWATER
7 = OTHER
LATITUDE
Text (11)
Yes
No
Latitude of bounding structure in decimal degree
format with 6 decimal places. Ex. DD.dddddd
LONGITUDE
Text (12)
Yes
No
Longitude of bounding structure in decimal
degree format with 6 decimal places. Ex.
DD.dddddd
ORIENTATION_(AZIMUTH)
Number
Yes
No
Orientation of the bounding structure expressed as
the angular direction from true North. Values range
from 0 to 359.
LENGTH
Number
Yes
No
Length of the bounding structure measured in meters
(m). Value expressed to one decimal point.
CODE_BND_STRC_MSRMT
Text (2)
Yes
No
Code referring to how the bounding structure was
measured. Refer to REF_BND_STRC_MSRMT
table
The following lists the codes for the type of method
in which a bounding structure was measured and the
assigned meaning.
G = GPS - Global Positioning System
M = Map
P = Physical measurement
FLOW_IMPACT
Text (255)
No
No
Any observation of how the bounding structure
affects water circulation at the beach.
COMMENTS
Text (255)
No
No
Optional additional description or comments related
to bounding structures and clarification if OTHER
was selected as the type of bounding structure.
B-7
Event Table (EVENT)
Description: This table is used to store data relating to specific events occurring on a beach. Each record must
contain a unique Event ID, Beach ID, Station ID, type of event and date/time.
FIELD NAME
DATA
TYPE
(SIZE)
REQ’D
INDEXED
DESCRIPTION
EVID
Text (27)
Yes
Yes (No
Duplicates)
Unique 26 character alpha numeric Event ID
comprised of Beach ID, Sample Location ID, Date
and Event Type ID.
Ex. – TX748844_ARA001_20130115_1
BEACH_ID
Text (9)
Yes
Yes
(Duplicates
OK)
Unique 8-digit alphanumeric code identifying beach
and state. Ex. TX111111 format. Refer to BEACH
table.
STATION_ID
Text (11)
Yes
Yes
(Duplicates
OK)
Unique 6 digit alphanumeric code identifying county
and sampling station location. Refer to
STATION_LOC table.
EVENT_DATE
Date/Time
Yes
Yes
(Duplicates
OK)
Date event occurred in MM/DD/YYYY format.
TIME
Date/Time
Yes
No
Time event occurred. Ex. 08:22 am format.
SAMPLE_DEPTH
Number
No
No
Depth below surface from which sample was
obtained. Measured in feet with one decimal place.
CODE_TYPE_EVENT
Text (3)
Yes
Yes
(Duplicates
OK)
Numeric code identifying type of event. Refer to
REF_TYPE_EVENT table.
The following lists the codes for the type of event
and the assigned meanings.
1 = ROUTINE
2 = ANNUAL
3 = CONTINUOUS
4 = RESAMPLE
COMMENTS
Text (255)
No
No
Optional additional description or comments related
to event.
B-8
Facilities Table (FACILITIES)
Description: This table is used to store data identifying the type and condition of facilities on each beach. This
table also includes a count of sanitary facilities (toilets, sinks etc.) and identifies how sanitary wastes are
disposed and distance to waterline.
FIELD NAME
DATA
TYPE
(SIZE)
REQ’D
INDEXED
DESCRIPTION
EVID
Text (27)
Yes
Yes
(Duplicates
OK)
26-character alpha numeric Event ID comprised of
Beach ID, Sample Location ID, Date and Event
Type ID. Ex. – TX748844_ANL000_20130115_2
FACILITY_NAME
Text (50)
No
No
Name of the facility (if available) in capital letters.
CODE_TYPE_FAC
Text (3)
Yes
Yes
(Duplicates
OK)
Numeric code identifying the type of facility. Refer
to REF_TYPE_FAC table.
The following lists the codes for the type of facility
and the assigned meanings.
1 = BATHHOUSE
2 = RESTROOM
3 = PORTABLE SANITARY UNIT
4 = RESTRAURANT
5 = MARINA
6 = BAR
7 = PARKING LOT
8 = FISH CLEANING STATION
9 = PLAYGROUND
10 = DOG PARK
11 = BOAT PUMP OUT
12 = OTHER
TOILET
Number
No
No
Count of toilets.
URINAL
Number
No
No
Count of urinals.
SINK
Number
No
No
Count of sinks.
SHOWER
Number
No
No
Count of showers.
LATITUDE
Text (11)
Yes
No
Latitude of facility in decimal degree format with 6
decimal places. Ex. DD.dddddd
LONGITUDE
Text (12)
Yes
No
Longitude of facility in decimal degree format with 6
decimal places. Ex. DD.dddddd
CODE_CONDITION
Text (3)
Yes
Yes
(Duplicates
OK)
Numeric code identifying the condition of the
facility. Refer to REF_CONDITION table.
The following lists the codes for the condition of the
facility and the assigned meanings.
1 = GOOD
2 = FAIR
3 = POOR
B-9
FIELD NAME
DATA
TYPE
(SIZE)
REQ’D
INDEXED
DESCRIPTION
DIST_TO_WATER
Number
Yes
Yes
(Duplicates
OK)
Distance from facility to water, measured in meters.
CODE_DISP_SAN_WSTE
Text (3)
Yes
Yes
(Duplicates
OK)
Numeric code identifying the disposal of sanitary
waste at the facility. Refer to
REF_DISP_SAN_WSTE table.
The following lists the codes for the method of
sanitary waste disposal and the assigned meanings.
1 = PUBLIC SEWER
2 = SEPTIC FIELD
3 = PUMP OUT
4 = ON-SITE
5 = OTHER
CODE_FREQ_PER
Text (3)
Yes
No
Code identifying how often the facility is cleaned.
Refer to REF_FREQ_PER table.
The following lists the codes for the period of
frequency and the assigned meanings.
1 = HOURLY
2 = TWICE DAILY
3 = DAILY
4 = BI-WEEKLY
5 = WEEKLY
6 = BI-MONTHLY
7 = MONTHLY
8 = QUARTERLY
9 = ANNUALLY
10 = OTHER
COMMENTS
Text (255)
No
No
Optional additional description or comments related
to facilities and further explanation if OTHER was
selected as an option in any field.
B-10
Habitat Table (HABITAT)
Description: This table is used to store data relating to the type of habitat at and surrounding a beach.
FIELD NAME
DATA
TYPE
(SIZE)
REQ’D
INDEXED
DESCRIPTION
EVID
Text (27)
Yes
Yes
(Duplicates
OK)
26-character alpha numeric Event ID comprised of
Beach ID, Sample Location ID, Date and Event
Type ID. Ex. – TX748844_ANL000_20130115_2
DUNES
Yes/No
No
No
YES / NO field to indicate presence of dunes at
beach.
WETLANDS
Yes/No
No
No
YES / NO field to indicate presence of wetlands at
beach.
RIVER
Yes/No
No
No
YES / NO field to indicate presence of a river at
beach.
FOREST
Yes/No
No
No
YES / NO field to indicate presence of forested areas
at beach.
PARK
Yes/No
No
No
YES / NO field to indicate presence of parks at
beach.
URBAN
Yes/No
No
No
YES / NO field to indicate presence of urban areas at
beach.
PROTECTED
Yes/No
No
No
YES / NO field to indicate presence of protected
areas at beach.
OTHER
Yes/No
No
No
YES / NO field to indicate presence of other types of
habitat at beach.
COMMENTS
Text (255)
No
No
Additional description of OTHER type of habitat or
comments related to habitat.
B-11
Litterbins Table (LITTERBINS)
Description: This table is used to store data relating to litterbins and trash receptacles at a beach. Each record
must contain an Event ID, location identified by latitude and longitude, condition, emptying frequency and
distance to waterline.
FIELD NAME
DATA
TYPE
(SIZE)
REQ’D
INDEXED
DESCRIPTION
EVID
Text (27)
Yes
Yes
(Duplicates
OK)
26-character alpha numeric Event ID comprised of
Beach ID, Sample Location ID, Date and Event
Type ID. Ex. – TX748844_ANL000_20130115_2
BIN_ID
Text (20)
No
No
Identifying number of litterbin if available.
LATITUDE
Text (11)
Yes
No
Latitude of litterbin in decimal degree format with 6
decimal places. Ex. DD.dddddd
LONGITUDE
Text (12)
Yes
No
Longitude of litterbin in decimal degree format with
6 decimal places. Ex. DD.dddddd
CODE_CONDITION
Text (3)
Yes
Yes
(Duplicates
OK)
Numeric code identifying the condition of the
litterbin. Refer to REF_CONDITION table.
The following lists the codes for the condition of the
litterbin and the assigned meanings.
1 = GOOD
2 = FAIR
3 = POOR
DIST_TO_WATER
Number
Yes
Yes
(Duplicates
OK)
Distance from litterbin to water, measured in meters
(m).
CODE_FREQ_PER
Text (3)
Yes
No
Code identifying how often the litterbin is emptied.
Refer to REF_FREQ_PER table.
The following lists the codes for the period of
frequency and the assigned meanings.
1 = HOURLY
2 = TWICE DAILY
3 = DAILY
4 = BI-WEEKLY
5 = WEEKLY
6 = BI-MONTHLY
7 = MONTHLY
8 = QUARTERLY
9 = ANNUALLY
10 = OTHER
COMMENTS
Text (255)
No
No
Optional additional description or comments related
to Litterbins and clarification if OTHER was
selected as an option for how often the litterbin was
emptied.
B-12
Observed Pollution Sources Table (OBS_POL_SRC)
Description: This table is used to store data relating to any observed pollution sources. Each record must
contain an Event ID, code for the type of pollution source and location identified by latitude and longitude.
Level of concern and distance to the water must also be recorded.
FIELD NAME
DATA
TYPE
(SIZE)
REQ’D
INDEXED
DESCRIPTION
EVID
Text (27)
Yes
Yes
(Duplicates
OK)
26-character alpha numeric Event ID comprised of
Beach ID, Sample Location ID, Date and Event
Type ID. Ex. – TX748844_ANL000_20130115_2
CODE_TYPE_POL_SRC
Text (3)
Yes
Yes
(Duplicates
OK)
Numeric code representing the type of observed
pollution source. Refer to REF_TYPE_POL_SRC
table.
The following lists the codes for the type of pollution
source and the assigned meanings.
1 = WASTEWATER DISCHARGE
2 = SEWAGE OVERFLOWS
3 = SEPTIC SYSTEMS
4 = SUBSURFACE SEWAGE DISPOSAL
5 = UNSEWERED AREAS
6 = GROUNDWATER SEEPAGE
7 = BATHHOUSE LEAKAGE
8 = DRAINS AND PIPES NEARBY
9 = STORMWATER OUTFALLS
10 = EROSION PRONE AREAS
11 = VACANT AREAS
12 = WETLAND DRAINAGE
13 = RIVERS/STREAMS
14 = LANDFILLS, OPEN DUMPS
15 = URBAN RUNOFF, INDUSTTIAL WASTE
16 = AGRICULTURAL RUNOFF
17 = LAND APPLICATION OF BIOSOLIDS AND
MANURE
18 = CAFOs OR AFOs
19 = DOMESTIC ANIMALS
20 = WILDLIFE
21 = MARINAS, HARBORS
22 = MOORING BOATS
23 = OTHER
LATITUDE
Text (11)
Yes
No
Latitude of observed pollution source in decimal
degree format with 6 decimal places. Ex.
DD.dddddd
LONGITUDE
Text (12)
Yes
No
Longitude of observed pollution source in decimal
degree format with 6 decimal places. Ex.
DD.dddddd
B-13
FIELD NAME
DATA
TYPE
(SIZE)
REQ’D
INDEXED
DESCRIPTION
CODE_LEV_CNCRN
Text (3)
Yes
Yes
(Duplicates
OK)
Code for level of concern. Refer to
REF_LEV_CNCRN table.
The following lists the codes for the level of concern
and the assigned meanings.
1 = HIGH
2 = MEDIUM
3 = LOW
DIST_TO_WATER
Number
Yes
Yes
(Duplicates
OK)
Distance from observed pollution source to the
water, measured in meters.
EST_FLOW
Number
No
No
Measurement of estimated flow from any observed
pollutions source where applicable. Measured in
cubic feet per second (ft
3
/s).
COMMENTS
Text (255)
No
No
Optional additional description or comments
related to observed pollution sources.
B-14
Parameter Codes Table (PARM_CODES)
Description: This table is used to store data relating to the Parameter code for each type of data collected.
EPA STORET codes will be utilized if known, otherwise a Parameter code will be created and will begin with
the letter C. Each record will contain a short description with the unit of measurement and an expanded long
description that includes predefined numeric codes for values that are not measured or counted.
FIELD NAME
DATA
TYPE
(SIZE)
REQ’D
INDEXED
DESCRIPTION
PARM_CODE
Text (7)
Yes
Yes (No
Duplicates)
Code assigned to each parameter or type of data collected. 5-digit
numeric EPA STORET codes are utilized if known. In absence of a
STORET code, a 6-digit alphanumeric code beginning with the letter “C”
was created. The following is a listing of the parameter codes to be
collected for this project with the corresponding meanings.
00010 = Water Temperature
00020 = Air Temperature
00035 = Wind Intensity
00038 = Wind Direction
00068 = Depth of Water Sample
00081 = Water Color
00094 = Specific Conductance (water)
00300 = Dissolved Oxygen (water)
00406 = pH (water)
00480 = Salinity (water)
34773 = Water Odor
46001 = Water Surface or Intensity
47501 = Present Weather
70225 = Longshore Current
72053 = Days Since Last Rainfall
82078= Turbidity (water)
82371 = Rainfall - inches past 3 Days
82553 = Rainfall - inches past 1 Day
82554 = Rainfall - inches past 7 Days
84381 = Tide Stage
C87000 = Tide Pools Present/Quantity
C87001 = Average size of Tide Pools
C87002 = Swimming/Sunbathing
C87003 = Surfing/Windsurfing
C87004 = RVs on Beach
C87005 = Fishing / from Pier
B-15
FIELD NAME
DATA
TYPE
(SIZE)
REQ’D
INDEXED
DESCRIPTION
C87006 = Watercraft
C87007 = Vehicles on Beach
C87008 = Fishing / from Shore
C87009 = Overnight Camping
C87010 = Other Types of Beach Use
C87011 = Humans on Land
C87012 = Humans in Water
C87013 = Total People at Beach
C87014 = Evidence of Beach Maintenance
C87015 = Appropriate Removal of Trash?
C87016 = Floatables Present?
C87017 = Type of Floatables Found
C87018 = Litter Present?
C87019 = Type of Litter / Debris Found
C87020 = Seaweed (Algae) Present in Water
C87021 = Seaweed (Algae) Present on Land
C87022 = Type of Seaweed (Algae) in Water
C87023 = Type of Seaweed (Algae) on Land
C87024 = Seagrass present in Water
C87025 = Seagrass present on Land
C87026 = Type of Seagrass in Water
C87027 = Type of Seagrass on Land
C87028 = Presence of Fish Alive
C87029 = Presence of Fish Dead
C87030 = Presence of Avian Alive
C87031 = Presence of Avian Dead
C87032 = Presence of Fecal Droppings Avian
C87033 = Presence of Jellyfish Alive
C87034 = Presence of Jellyfish Dead
C87035 = Presence of Canine Alive
C87036 = Presence of Canine Dead
C87037 = Presence of Fecal Droppings Canine
C87038 = Presence of Crabs Alive
C87039 = Presence of Crabs Dead
C87040 = Presence of Equine Alive
C87041 = Presence of Equine Dead
B-16
FIELD NAME
DATA
TYPE
(SIZE)
REQ’D
INDEXED
DESCRIPTION
C87042 = Presence of Fecal Droppings Equine
C87043 = Presence of Other Live Wildlife/Domestic Animals
C87044 = Presence of Other Dead Wildlife/Domestic Animals
C87045 = Presence of Other Fecal Droppings
C87046 = Beach Length
C87047 = Beach Width Z1
C87048 = Beach Width Z2
C87049 = Beach Width Z3
C87050 = Beach Slope Z1
C87051 = Beach Slope Z2
C87052 = Beach Slope Z3
C87053 = Sediment Type
C87054 = Mean Grain Size
C87055 = Mode Grain Size
C87056 = Median Grain Size
C87057 = Skewness
C87058 = Kurtosis
C87059 = d10
SHORT_DESC
Text (50)
Yes
No
Short description of parameter.
UNIT
Text (20)
Yes
No
Unit of measurement for each parameter.
LONG_DESC
Text
(255)
Yes
No
Expanded description of parameter including predefined numeric codes
for values that are not measured or counted.
COMMENTS
Text
(255)
No
No
Optional additional description or comments related to parameter codes.
B-17
Programs Table (PROGRAMS)
Description: This table is used to store data relating to any program that have occurred on a beach. Each
record must contain an Event ID, type of program and frequency. The organization responsible for the
implementation of the program will also be included along with a contact name, phone number and address.
FIELD NAME
DATA
TYPE
(SIZE)
REQ’D
INDEXED
DESCRIPTION
EVID
Text (27)
Yes
Yes
(Duplicates
OK)
26-character alpha numeric Event ID comprised of
Beach ID, Sample Location ID, Date and Event
Type ID. Ex. – TX748844_ANL000_20130115_2
CODE_TYPE_PROGRAM
Text (3)
Yes
Yes
(Duplicates
OK)
Numeric code identifying the type of beach program.
Refer to REF_TYPE_PROGRAM table.
ORGANIZATION
Text (50)
Yes
Yes
(Duplicates
OK)
Name of the organization in capital letters.
CONTACT_PERSON
Text (50)
Yes
No
Name of the person to contact regarding any
questions related to the beach program.
CONTACT_PHONE
Text (13)
Yes
No
Phone number for contact person of program. Ex.
123-456-1234 format.
ORG_ADDRESS
Text (75)
Yes
No
Address of organization that performs beach
program.
CODE_FREQ_PER
Text (3)
Yes
Yes
(Duplicates
OK)
Code identifying frequency that program is
performed. Refer to REF_FREQ_PER table.
The following lists the codes for the period of
frequency and the assigned meanings.
1 = HOURLY
2 = TWICE DAILY
3 = DAILY
4 = BI-WEEKLY
5 = WEEKLY
6 = BI-MONTHLY
7 = MONTHLY
8 = QUARTERLY
9 = ANNUALLY
10 = OTHER
COMMENTS
Text (255)
No
No
Optional additional description or comments related
to programs.
B-18
Results Table (RESULTS)
Description: This table is used to store data relating to the results of data collected at a beach. Each record
must contain the Event ID, date, parameter code and the value or code for the result.
FIELD NAME
DATA
TYPE
(SIZE)
REQ’D
INDEXED
DESCRIPTION
EVID
Text (27)
Yes
Yes
(Duplicates
OK)
26-character alpha numeric Event ID comprised of
Beach ID, Sample Location ID, Date and Event
Type ID. Ex. – TX748844_ARA001_20130115_1
EVENT_DATE
Date/Time
Yes
Yes
(Duplicates
OK)
Date event occurred in MM/DD/YYYY format.
PARM_CODE
Text (7)
Yes
Yes
(Duplicates
OK)
Code assigned to each parameter or type of data
collected. 5-digit numeric EPA STORET codes are
utilized if know. In absence of a STORET code, a 6-
digit alphanumeric code beginning with a “C” was
created. Refer to PARM_CODE table.
The following is a listing of the parameters to be
collected for this project with the corresponding
assigned parameter code.
Air Temperature = 00020
Appropriate Removal of Trash? = C87015
Average size of Tide Pools
= C87001
Beach Length = C87046
Beach Slope Z1 = C87050
Beach Slope Z2 = C87051
Beach Slope Z3 = C87052
Beach Width Z1 = C87047
Beach Width Z2 = C87048
Beach Width Z3 = C87049
d10 = C87059
Days Since Last Rainfall = 72053
Depth of Water Sample = 00068
Dissolved Oxygen (water) = 00300
Evidence of Beach Maintenance = C87014
Fishing / from Pier = C87005
Fishing / from Shore = C87008
Floatables Present? = C87016
Humans in Water = C87012
Humans on Land = C87011
Kurtosis = C87058
Litter Present? = C87018
Longshore Current = 70225
Mean Grain Size = C87054
Median Grain Size = C87056
Mode Grain Size = C87055
Other Types of Beach Use = C87010
B-19
FIELD NAME
DATA
TYPE
(SIZE)
REQ’D
INDEXED
DESCRIPTION
Overnight Camping = C87009
pH (water) = 00406
Presence of Avian Alive = C87030
Presence of Avian Dead = C87031
Presence of Canine Alive = C87035
Presence of Canine Dead = C87036
Presence of Crabs Alive = C87038
Presence of Crabs Dead = C87039
Presence of Equine Alive = C87040
Presence of Equine Dead = C87041
Presence of Fecal Droppings Avian = C87032
Presence of Fecal Droppings Canine = C87037
Presence of Fecal Droppings Equine = C87042
Presence of Fish Alive = C87028
Presence of Fish Dead = C87029
Presence of Jellyfish Alive = C87033
Presence of Jellyfish Dead = C87034
Presence of Other Dead Wildlife/Domestic Animals
= C87044
Presence of Other Fecal Droppings = C87045
Presence of Other Live Wildlife/Domestic Animals
= C87043
Present Weather = 47501
Rainfall - inches past 1 Day = 82553
Rainfall - inches past 3 Days = 82371
Rainfall - inches past 7 Days = 82554
RVs on Beach = C87004
Salinity (water) = 00480
Seagrass present in Water = C87024
Seagrass present on Land = C87025
Seaweed (Algae) Present in Water = C87020
Seaweed (Algae) Present on Land = C87021
Sediment = C87053
Skewness = C87057
Specific Conductance (water) = 00094
Surfing/Windsurfing = C87003
Swimming/Sunbathing = C87002
Tide Pools Present/Quantity = C87000
Tide Stage = 84381
Total People at Beach = C87013
Turbidity (water) = 82078
Type of Floatables Found = C87017
Type of Litter / Debris Found = C87019
Type of Seagrass in Water = C87026
Type of Seagrass on Land = C87027
Type of Seaweed (Algae) in Water = C87022
Type of Seaweed (Algae) on Land = C87023
Vehicles on Beach = C87007
Water Color = 00081
Water Odor = 34773
Water Surface or Intensity = 46001
Water Temperature = 00010
B-20
FIELD NAME
DATA
TYPE
(SIZE)
REQ’D
INDEXED
DESCRIPTION
Watercraft = C87006
Wind Direction = 00038
Wind Intensity = 00035
RESULT_VALUE
Text (10)
Yes
Yes
(Duplicates
OK)
Results of collected data. Values will either be a
direct measurement, a count or a numeric code
selected from the Routine or Annual data collection
forms.
QUALIFIER
Text (10)
No
No
Optional qualifier further defining result value. Ex.
< or >
COMMENTS
Text (255)
No
No
Optional additional description or comments related
to results.
Shellfish Table (SHELLFISH)
Description: This table is used to store data relating to any shellfish growing areas near a beach. Each record
must contain an Event ID, type of shellfish, size of growing area and distance to swimming area.
FIELD NAME
DATA
TYPE
(SIZE)
REQ’D
INDEXED
DESCRIPTION
EVID
Text (27)
Yes
Yes
(Duplicates
OK)
26-character alpha numeric Event ID comprised of
Beach ID, Sample Location ID, Date and Event
Type ID. Ex. – TX748844_ANL000_20130115_2
CODE_TYPE_SHLFSH
Text (3)
Yes
Yes
(Duplicates
OK)
Type of Shellfish beds growing in area. Refer to
REF_TYPE_SHELFSH table.
The following lists the codes for the type of shellfish
and the assigned meanings.
1 = OYSTER
2 = CLAM
3 = MUSSEL
4 = OTHER
SIZE
Number
Yes
No
Estimated size of shellfish growing areas measured
in square feet (ft
2
)
DIST_SWM_AREA
Number
Yes
No
Distance from shellfish areas to swimming area.
Measured in meters (m).
COMMENTS
Text (255)
No
No
Optional additional description or comments related
to shellfish growing areas.
B-21
Station Location Table (STATION_LOC)
Description: This table is used to store data relating to the location and identification of sampling stations.
Each record must contain the unique Station ID, Station Name, Beach ID, FIPS and latitude/longitude.
FIELD NAME
DATA
TYPE
(SIZE)
REQ’D
INDEXED
DESCRIPTION
STATION_ID
Text (11)
Yes
Yes (No
Duplicates)
Unique 6-digit alphanumeric code identifying the
sampling station location.
The following is a listing of the station location ID
and name of the corresponding site.
ANL000 = ANNUAL BEACH ANALYSIS
ARA001 = ROCKPORT BEACH PARK SOUTH
ARA002 = ROCKPORT BEACH PARK NORTH
ARA003 = ROCKPORT SALTWATER POOL
ARA004 = LITTLE BAY SKI BASIN
KLE001 = RIVERIA BEACH PIER
KLE002 = KAUFER-HUBERT MEMORIAL PARK #1
KLE003 = KAUFER-HUBERT MEMORIAL PARK #2
KLE004 = KAUFER-HUBERT MEMORIAL PARK #3
NUE001 = PORT ARANSAS #1
NUE002 = PORT ARANSAS #2
NUE003 = PORT ARANSAS #3
NUE004 = PORT ARANSAS #4
NUE005 = PORT ARANSAS #5
NUE006 = PORT ARANSAS #6
NUE007 = MUSTANG ISLAND SP #1
NUE008 = MUSTANG ISLAND SP #2
NUE009 = MUSTANG ISLAND SP #3
NUE010 = MUSTANG ISLAND SP #4
NUE012 = MUSTANG ISLAND SP #6
NUE013 = J.P. LUBY PARK #1
NUE014 = J.P. LUBY PARK #2
NUE015 = J.P. LUBY PARK #3
NUE016 = J.P. LUBY PARK #4
NUE017 = BOB HALL PIER/SEAWALL #1
NUE018 = BOB HALL PIER/SEAWALL #2
NUE019 = BOB HALL PIER/SEAWALL #3
NUE020 = BOB HALL PIER/SEAWALL #4
NUE021 = BOB HALL PIER/SEAWALL #5
NUE022 = BOB HALL PIER/SEAWALL #6
NUE023 = BOB HALL PIER/SEAWALL #7
NUE024 = BOB HALL PIER/SEAWALL #8
NUE025 = UNIVERISTY BEACH
NUE026 = POENISCH PARK
NUE028 = ROPES PARK #2
NUE029 = ROPES PARK #3
NUE031 = COLE PARK #2
B-22
FIELD NAME
DATA
TYPE
(SIZE)
REQ’D
INDEXED
DESCRIPTION
NUE032 = COLE PARK #3
NUE033 = COLE PARK #4
NUE035 = COLE PARK #6
NUE036 = MCGEE BEACH #1
NUE037 = MCGEE BEACH #2
NUE038 = COASTAL
NUE039 = BREAKERS
NUE040 = GULFSPRAY
NUE041 = GULDEN
NUE042 = JFK-A
NUE043 = LAGUNA SHORES
NUE044 = PARK ROAD 22
NUE045 = CORPUS CHRISTI MARINA – SOUTH
NUE046 = CORPUS CHRISTI MARINA – CENTER
NUE047 = CORPUS CHRISTI MARINA – NORTH
NUE048 = MUSTANG ISLAND
NUE049 = LIGHTHOUSE LAKE
NUE050 = EMERALD BEACH
SAN001 = NUECES BAY CAUSEWAY #3
BEACH_ID
Text (9)
Yes
Yes
(Duplicates
OK)
Unique 8-digit alphanumeric code identifying beach
and State. TX111111 format. Refer to BEACH
table.
STATION_NAME
Text (50)
Yes
Yes
(Duplicates
OK)
Name identifying Station ID in capital letters.
The following is a listing of the name of the
sampling station and the corresponding station ID.
ANNUAL BEACH ANALYSIS = ANL000
BOB HALL PIER/SEAWALL #1 = NUE017
BOB HALL PIER/SEAWALL #2 = NUE018
BOB HALL PIER/SEAWALL #3 = NUE019
BOB HALL PIER/SEAWALL #4 = NUE020
BOB HALL PIER/SEAWALL #5 = NUE021
BOB HALL PIER/SEAWALL #6 = NUE022
BOB HALL PIER/SEAWALL #7 = NUE023
BOB HALL PIER/SEAWALL #8 = NUE024
BREAKERS = NUE039
COASTAL = NUE038
COLE PARK #2 = NUE031
COLE PARK #3 = NUE032
COLE PARK #4 = NUE033
COLE PARK #6 = NUE035
CORPUS CHRISTI MARINA – CENTER = NUE046
CORPUS CHRISTI MARINA – NORTH = NUE047
CORPUS CHRISTI MARINA – SOUTH = NUE045
EMERALD BEACH = NUE050
GULDEN = NUE041
GULFSPRAY = NUE040
B-23
FIELD NAME
DATA
TYPE
(SIZE)
REQ’D
INDEXED
DESCRIPTION
J.P. LUBY PARK #1 = NUE013
J.P. LUBY PARK #2 = NUE014
J.P. LUBY PARK #3 = NUE015
J.P. LUBY PARK #4 = NUE016
JFK-A = NUE042
KAUFER-HUBERT MEMORIAL PARK #1 = KLE002
KAUFER-HUBERT MEMORIAL PARK #2 = KLE003
KAUFER-HUBERT MEMORIAL PARK #3 = KLE004
LAGUNA SHORES = NUE043
LIGHTHOUSE LAKE = NUE049
LITTLE BAY SKI BASIN = ARA004
MCGEE BEACH #1 = NUE036
MCGEE BEACH #2 = NUE037
MUSTANG ISLAND = NUE048
MUSTANG ISLAND SP #1 = NUE007
MUSTANG ISLAND SP #2 = NUE008
MUSTANG ISLAND SP #3 = NUE009
MUSTANG ISLAND SP #4 = NUE010
MUSTANG ISLAND SP #6 = NUE012
NUECES BAY CAUSEWAY #3 = SAN001
PARK ROAD 22 = NUE044
POENISCH PARK = NUE026
PORT ARANSAS #1 = NUE001
PORT ARANSAS #2 = NUE002
PORT ARANSAS #3 = NUE003
PORT ARANSAS #4 = NUE004
PORT ARANSAS #5 = NUE005
PORT ARANSAS #6 = NUE006
RIVERIA BEACH PIER = KLE001
ROCKPORT BEACH PARK NORTH = ARA002
ROCKPORT BEACH PARK SOUTH = ARA001
ROCKPORT SALTWATER POOL = ARA003
ROPES PARK #2 = NUE028
ROPES PARK #3 = NUE029
UNIVERISTY BEACH = NUE025
FIPS
Text (6)
Yes
Yes
(Duplicates
OK)
Federal Information Processing Standard –
Unique 5-digit numeric code identifying county and
geographical area.
The following lists the FIPS code and the
corresponding county name.
48007 = Aransas County
48273 = Kleberg County
48355 = Nueces County
48409 = San Patricio County
B-24
FIELD NAME
DATA
TYPE
(SIZE)
REQ’D
INDEXED
DESCRIPTION
LATITUDE
Text (11)
Yes
No
Latitude of sampling location in decimal degree
format with 6 decimal places. Ex. DD.dddddd
LONGITUDE
Text (12)
Yes
No
Longitude of sampling location in decimal degree
format with 6 decimal places. Ex. DD.dddddd
LOC_DESC
Text (255)
No
No
Optional further description for identifying location
of sampling site.
COMMENTS
Text (255)
No
No
Optional additional description or comments related
to Sampling Location
Bounding Structures Measurement Reference Table (REF_BND_STRC_MSRMT)
Description: This reference table is used to store data relating to the method in which a bounding structure was
measured. Also includes the code for the type method.
FIELD NAME
DATA
TYPE
(SIZE)
REQ’D
INDEXED
DESCRIPTION
CODE_BND_STRC_MSRMT
Text (3)
Yes
No
Code referring to how the bounding structure was
measured.
The following lists the codes for the type of method
in which a bounding structures was measured and
the assigned meanings.
G = GPS - Global Positioning System
M = Map
P = Physical measurement
BND_STRC_MSRMT
Text (30)
Yes
No
Method by which the bounding structure was
measured.
B-25
Condition of Facilities/Litterbins Reference Table (REF_CONDITION)
Description: This reference table is used to store data relating to the condition of a facility or litterbin. Also
includes the code for the level of condition.
FIELD NAME
DATA
TYPE
(SIZE)
REQ’D
INDEXED
DESCRIPTION
CODE_CONDITION
Text (3)
Yes
No
Code identifying the condition of a facility or
litterbin.
The following lists the codes for the condition of a
facility or litterbin and the assigned meanings.
1 = GOOD
2 = FAIR
3 = POOR
CONDITION
Text (20)
Yes
No
Condition of facility or litterbin
Disposal of Sanitary Waste Reference Table (REF_DISP_SAN_WSTE)
Description: This reference table is used to store data relating to how sanitary wastes are disposed. Also
includes the code for the type of disposal method.
FIELD NAME
DATA
TYPE
(SIZE)
REQ’D
INDEXED
DESCRIPTION
CODE_DISP_SAN_WSTE
Text (3)
Yes
No
Code identifying the method of sanitary waste
disposal.
The following lists the codes for type of method in
which sanitary wastes are disposed and the assigned
meanings.
1 = PUBLIC SEWER
2 = SEPTIC FIELD
3 = PUMP OUT
4 = ON-SITE
5 = OTHER
DISP_SAN_WSTE
Text (20)
Yes
No
Method in which sanitary wastes are disposed.
B-26
Frequency Period Reference Table (REF_FREQ_PER)
Description: This reference table is used to store data relating to the frequency that an event or program
occurs. Also includes the code for the frequency period.
FIELD NAME
DATA
TYPE
(SIZE)
REQ’D
INDEXED
DESCRIPTION
CODE_FREQ_PER
Text (3)
Yes
No
Code identifying how often an event occurred.
The following lists the codes for the period of
frequency and the assigned meanings.
1 = HOURLY
2 = TWICE DAILY
3 = DAILY
4 = BI-WEEKLY
5 = WEEKLY
6 = BI-MONTHLY
7 = MONTHLY
8 = QUARTERLY
9 = ANNUALLY
10 = OTHER
FREQ_PER
Text (20)
Yes
No
Frequency period.
Level of Concern Reference Table (REF_LEV_CNCRN)
Description: This reference table is used to store data relating to the degree of the level of concern. Also
includes the code for the level of concern.
FIELD NAME
DATA
TYPE
(SIZE)
REQ’D
INDEXED
DESCRIPTION
CODE_LEV_CNCRN
Text (3)
Yes
No
Code for the level of concern.
The following lists the codes for the level of concern
and the assigned meanings.
1 = HIGH
2 = MEDIUM
3 = LOW
LEV_CNCRN
Text (20)
Yes
No
Degree of level of concern.
B-27
Type of Beach Material Reference Table (REF_TYPE_BCH_MAT)
Description: This reference table is used to store data relating to the type of material that makes up the beach.
Also includes the code for the type of material.
FIELD NAME
DATA
TYPE
(SIZE)
REQ’D
INDEXED
DESCRIPTION
CODE_TYPE_BCH_MAT
Text (3)
Yes
No
Numeric code identifying the type of beach
material.
The following lists the codes for the type of beach
material and the assigned meanings.
1 = SAND
2 = MUD
3 = ROCK
4 = SHELL
5 = OTHER
TYPE_BCH_MAT
Text (20)
Yes
No
Name of type of beach material.
Type of Bounding Structure Reference Table (REF_TYPE_BND_STRUC)
Description: This reference table is used to store data relating to the type of any bounding structures natural or
fabricated that border or exist within a beach’s boundaries. Also includes the code for the type of bounding
structure.
FIELD NAME
DATA
TYPE
(SIZE)
REQ’D
INDEXED
DESCRIPTION
CODE_TYPE_BND_STRUC
Text (3)
Yes
No
Code identifying the type of bounding structure.
The following lists the codes for the types of
bounding structures and the assigned meanings.
1 = JETTY
2 = GROIN
3 = SEAWALL
4 = PIER
5 = NATURAL FORMATION
6 = BREAKWATER
7 = OTHER
TYPE_BND_STRUC
Text (20)
Yes
No
Name of the type of bounding structure.
B-28
Type of Event Reference Table (REF_TYPE_EVENT)
Description: This reference table is used to store data relating to the type of event occurring at a beach. Also
includes the code for the type of event.
FIELD NAME
DATA
TYPE
(SIZE)
REQ’D
INDEXED
DESCRIPTION
CODE_TYPE_EVENT
Text (3)
Yes
No
Code identifying type of event.
The following lists the codes for the type of event
and the assigned meanings.
1 = ROUTINE
2 = ANNUAL
3 = CONTINUOUS
4 = RESAMPLE
TYPE_EVENT
Text (20)
Yes
No
Name of type of event.
Type of Facility Reference Table (REF_TYPE_FAC)
Description: This reference table is used to store data relating to the type of facility. Also includes the code
for the type of facility.
FIELD NAME
DATA
TYPE
(SIZE)
REQ’D
INDEXED
DESCRIPTION
CODE_TYPE_FAC
Text (3)
Yes
No
Code identifying the type of facility.
The following lists the codes for the type of
facility and the assigned meanings.
1 = BATHHOUSE
2 = RESTROOM
3 = PORTABLE SANITARY UNIT
4 = RESTRAURANT
5 = MARINA
6 = BAR
7 = PARKING LOT
8 = FISH CLEANING STATION
9 = PLAYGROUND
10 = DOG PARK
11 = BOAT PUMP OUT
12 = OTHER
TYPE_FAC
Text (30)
Yes
No
Name of type of facility
B-29
Type of Observed Pollution Source Reference Table (REF_TYPE_POL_SRC)
Description: This reference table is used to store data relating to the type of any observed pollution sources at
a beach. Also includes the code identifying the type of pollution source.
FIELD NAME
DATA
TYPE
(SIZE)
REQ’D
INDEXED
DESCRIPTION
CODE_TYPE_POL_SRC
Text (3)
Yes
No
Numeric code representing the type of observed
pollution source.
The following lists the codes for the type of pollution
source and the assigned meanings.
1 = WASTEWATER DISCHARGE
2 = SEWAGE OVERFLOWS
3 = SEPTIC SYSTEMS
4 = SUBSURFACE SEWAGE DISPOSAL
5 = UNSEWERED AREAS
6 = GROUNDWATER SEEPAGE
7 = BATHHOUSE LEAKAGE
8 = DRAINS AND PIPES NEARBY
9 = STORMWATER OUTFALLS
10 = EROSION PRONE AREAS
11 = VACANT AREAS
12 = WETLAND DRAINAGE
13 = RIVERS/STREAMS
14 = LANDFILLS, OPEN DUMPS
15 = URBAN RUNOFF, INDUSTTIAL WASTE
16 = AGRICULTURAL RUNOFF
17 = LAND APPLICATION OF BIOSOLIDS AND
MANURE
18 = CAFOs OR AFOs
19 = DOMESTIC ANIMALS
20 = WILDLIFE
21 = MARINAS, HARBORS
22 = MOORING BOATS
23 = OTHER
TYPE_POL_SRC
Text (50)
Yes
No
Name of type of pollution source.
B-30
Type of Program Table (REF_TYPE_PROGRAM)
Description: This reference table is used to store data relating to any program occurring on a beach. Also
includes the code for the type of program.
FIELD NAME
DATA
TYPE
(SIZE)
REQ’D
INDEXED
DESCRIPTION
CODE_TYPE_PROGRAM
Text (3)
Yes
No
Numeric code for type of beach program.
TYPE_PROGRAM
Text (50)
Yes
No
Name of type of program.
Type of Shellfish Reference Table (REF_TYPE_SHLFSH)
Description: This reference table is used to store data relating to any shellfish growing areas found at a beach.
Also includes the code for the type of shellfish.
FIELD NAME
DATA
TYPE
(SIZE)
REQ’D
INDEXED
DESCRIPTION
CODE_TYPE_SHLFSH
Text (3)
Yes
No
Numeric code for type of shellfish growing area.
The following lists the codes for the type of shellfish
and the assigned meanings.
1 = OYSTER
2 = CLAM
3 = MUSSEL
4 = OTHER
TYPE_SHLFSH
Text (20)
Yes
No
Name of type of shellfish.
C-1
APPENDIX C - UNIQUE LOCAL CONTRACTOR INFORMATION
C-2
ARANSAS COUNTY
Local Entity/Contractor
Corpus Christi-Nueces County Public Health
District
1702 Horne Road
Corpus Christi, Texas 78416
Project Manager
Annette Rodriguez, Director
Corpus Christi-Nueces County Public Health
District
1702 Horne Road
Corpus Christi, Texas 78416
(361) 826-7203
Laboratory
Donna Rosson, MPH, MT(ASCP)
Laboratory Manager
Corpus Christi-Nueces County Public Health
District
1702 Horne Road
Corpus Christi, Texas 78416
(361) 826-1323
(361) 826-7217 - Fax
Laboratory
Samantha Pollack, B.S.
Microbiologist
Corpus Christi-Nueces County Public Health
District
1702 Horne Road
Corpus Christi, Texas 78416
(361) 826-7218
(361) 826-7217 - Fax
Analysis Method
Enterolert™
Local Government Contacts
Mr. Tom Staley, Director
Parks and Leisure Department
City of Rockport
P.O. Box 1059
Rockport, TX 78381
361-729-2213 ext.134
Brian Smith, M.D., M.P.H.
Regional Medical Director
Texas Department of State Health Services
601 West Sesame Drive
Harlingen, Texas 78550, Mail Code 1907
(956) 423-0130
(956) 444-3298 - Fax
(956) 444-3202
Jace Tunnell, Project Manager
Coastal Bend Bays and Estuaries Program
1305 N. Shoreline, Suite 205
Corpus Christi, TX 78401
(361) 885-6245
(361) 883-7801 - Fax
Aransas County’s most popular beach is the Rockport Beach Park in the City of Rockport. The
Beach Watch Program samples at four locations at this one beach.
C-3
Station
ID
Station Name
Beach Name
EPA
Beach ID
Latitude
Longitude
ARA001
Rockport Beach Park South
Rockport Beach Park
TX748844
28.02859
-97.04233
ARA002
Rockport Beach Park North
Rockport Beach Park
TX748844
28.0302
-97.03763
ARA003
Rockport Saltwater Pool
Rockport Beach Park
TX748844
28.03251
-97.03215
ARA004
Little Bay Ski Basin
Rockport Beach Park
TX748844
28.03064
-97.03961
Aransas County Beach Locations
C-4
NUECES COUNTY
Local Entity/Contractor
Corpus Christi-Nueces County Public Health
District
1702 Horne Road
Corpus Christi, Texas 78416
Project Manager
Annette Rodriguez, Director
Corpus Christi-Nueces County Public Health
District
1702 Horne Road
Corpus Christi, Texas 78416
(361) 826-7203
Laboratory
Donna Rosson, MPH, MT(ASCP)
Laboratory Manager
Corpus Christi-Nueces County Public Health
District
1702 Horne Road
Corpus Christi, Texas 78416
(361) 826-1323
(361) 826-7217 - Fax
Laboratory
Samantha Pollack, B.S.
Microbiologist
Corpus Christi-Nueces County Public Health
District
1702 Horne Road
Corpus Christi, Texas 78416
(361) 826-7218
(361) 826-7217 - Fax
Analysis Method
Enterolert™
Local Government Contacts
Ms. Annette Rodriguez, MPh., Director
Corpus Christi-Nueces County Public Health
District
1702 Horne Road
Corpus Christi, TX 78416
(361) 851-7203
Brian Smith, M.D., M.P.H.
Regional Medical Director
Texas Department of State Health Services
601 West Sesame Drive
Harlingen, TX 78550
(956) 423-0130
(956) 444-3298 - Fax
(956) 444-3202
Michael Morris, Director
Parks & Recreation Department
City of Corpus Christi
1201 Leopard St.
Corpus Christi, TX 78401-2120
(361) 826-3464
Damon Reeves, Park Superintendent
Mustang Island State Park
P. O. Box 326
Port Aransas, TX 78373-0326
(361) 749-5246
Scott Cross, Director
Nueces County Parks & Recreation Department
Derek Herzog, Beach Superintendent
City of Corpus Christi
C-5
Local Government Contacts
P.O. Box 18608
Corpus Christi, TX 78480-8608
(361) 949-8121
(361) 749-6117 – Port Aransas Office
Jace Tunnell, Project Manager
Coastal Bend Bays and Estuaries Program
1305 N. Shoreline, Suite 205
Corpus Christi, TX 78401
(361) 885-6245
(361) 883-7801 - Fax
Nueces County has a very extensive beach area both along the Gulf of Mexico and within
Corpus Christi Bay. Twenty-four stations on the Gulf and twenty-two stations on the Bay will
be sampled.
Station
ID
Station Name
Beach Name
EPA
Beach ID
Latitude
Longitude
NUE001
Port Aransas #1
Port Aransas
TX722300
27.83317
-97.04689
NUE002
Port Aransas #2
Port Aransas
TX722300
27.83144
-97.04943
NUE003
Port Aransas #3
Port Aransas
TX722300
27.82847
-97.05243
NUE004
Port Aransas #4
Port Aransas
TX722300
27.82637
-97.05472
NUE005
Port Aransas #5
Port Aransas
TX315916
27.82207
-97.05867
NUE006
Port Aransas #6
Port Aransas
TX315916
27.8154
-97.06501
NUE007
Mustang Island SP #1
Mustang Island
TX551380
27.67892
-97.1647
NUE008
Mustang Island SP #2
Mustang Island
TX551380
27.67422
-97.16769
NUE009
Mustang Island SP #3
Mustang Island
TX551380
27.67079
-97.17082
NUE010
Mustang Island SP #4
Mustang Island
TX551380
27.66642
-97.17331
NUE012
Mustang Island SP #6
Mustang Island
TX551380
27.64334
-97.18714
NUE013
J.P. Luby Park #1
JP Luby Park
TX607336
27.63635
-97.19066
NUE014
J.P. Luby Park #2
JP Luby Park
TX607336
27.62909
-97.19497
NUE015
J.P. Luby Park #3
JP Luby Park
TX607336
27.62252
-97.19879
NUE016
J.P. Luby Park #4
JP Luby Park
TX607336
27.61649
-97.20199
NUE017
Bob Hall Pier/Seawall
#1
Padre Balli Park
TX314643
27.60959
-97.20562
NUE018
Bob Hall Pier/Seawall
#2
Padre Balli Park
TX314643
27.6047
-97.20822
NUE019
Bob Hall Pier/Seawall
#3
Padre Balli Park
TX314643
27.59873
-97.21126
NUE020
Bob Hall Pier/Seawall
#4
Padre Balli Park
TX314643
27.59484
-97.21354
NUE021
Bob Hall Pier/Seawall
#5
Padre Balli Park
TX314643
27.58956
-97.21601
C-6
Station
ID
Station Name
Beach Name
EPA
Beach ID
Latitude
Longitude
NUE022
Bob Hall Pier/Seawall
#6
Padre Balli Park
TX314643
27.58575
-97.21811
NUE023
Bob Hall Pier/Seawall
#7
Padre Balli Park
TX314643
27.58271
-97.21966
NUE024
Bob Hall Pier/Seawall
#8
Padre Balli Park
TX314643
27.57988
-97.22107
NUE025
University Beach
Ocean Drive
TX149569
27.71535
-97.32116
NUE026
Poenisch Park
Poenisch Park
TX682648
27.72406
-97.34344
NUE028
Ropes Park #2
Ropes Park
TX821303
27.75279
-97.37587
NUE029
Ropes Park #3
Ropes Park
TX821303
27.75477
-97.37623
NUE031
Cole Park#2
Cole Park
TX259473
27.76762
-97.3845
NUE032
Cole Park#3
Cole Park
TX259473
27.76991
-97.38717
NUE033
Cole Park#4
Cole Park
TX259473
27.77199
-97.38829
NUE035
Cole Park#6
Cole Park
TX259473
27.77545
-97.39112
NUE036
McGee Beach #1
McGee Beach
TX536781
27.78406
-97.39376
NUE037
McGee Beach #2
McGee Beach
TX536781
27.78589
-97.39332
NUE038
Coastal
Corpus Christi Beach
TX546628
27.81751
-97.38943
NUE039
Breakers
Corpus Christi Beach
TX546628
27.82167
-97.38636
NUE040
Gulfspray
Corpus Christi Beach
TX546628
27.82666
-97.38307
NUE041
Gulden
Corpus Christi Beach
TX546628
27.83105
-97.37972
NUE042
JFK-A
JFK Causeway
TX442541
27.65808
-97.26189
NUE043
Laguna Shores
Laguna Shores
TX937228
27.63813
-97.28644
NUE044
Park Road 22
Packery Channel Park
TX227625
27.63041
-97.22514
NUE045
Corpus Christi Marina -
South
Corpus Christi Marina
TX305317
27.79056
-97.39167
NUE046
Corpus Christi Marina -
Center
Corpus Christi Marina
TX305317
27.79333
-97.39056
NUE047
Corpus Christi Marina -
North
Corpus Christi Marina
TX305317
27.79667
-97.38778
NUE048
Mustang Island
Mustang Island
TX396020
27.70333
-97.14972
NUE049
Lighthouse Lake
Lighthouse Lakes
Kayak Trail
TX538780
27.860833
-97.082778
NUE050
Emerald Beach
Emerald Beach
TX199413
27.781611
-97.393444
C-7
Nueces County Beach Locations
C-8
Nueces County Beach Locations
C-9
Nueces County Beach Locations
C-10
Nueces County Beach Locations
C-11
Nueces County Beach Locations
C-12
Nueces County Beach Locations
C-13
Nueces County Beach Locations
C-14
Nueces County Beach Locations
C-15
Nueces County Beach Locations
C-16
Nueces County Beach Locations
C-17
Nueces County Beach Locations
C-18
SAN PATRICIO COUNTY
Local Entity/Contractor
Corpus Christi-Nueces County Public Health
District
1702 Horne Road
Corpus Christi, Texas 78416
Project Manager
Annette Rodriguez, Director
Corpus Christi-Nueces County Public Health
District
1702 Horne Road
Corpus Christi, Texas 78416
(361) 826-7203
Laboratory
Donna Rosson, MPH, MT(ASCP)
Laboratory Manager
Corpus Christi-Nueces County Public Health
District
1702 Horne Road
Corpus Christi, Texas 78416
(361) 826-1323
(361) 826-7217 - Fax
Laboratory
Samantha Pollack, B.S.
Microbiologist
Corpus Christi-Nueces County Public Health
District
1702 Horne Road
Corpus Christi, Texas 78416
(361) 826-7218
(361) 826-7217 - Fax
Analysis Method
Enterolert™
Local Government Contacts
The Honorable Terry Simpson
San Patricio County Judge
400 W. Sinton, Rm. 109
Sinton, TX 78387
(361) 364-9301
(361) 364-6118 - Fax
Brian Smith, M.D., M.P.H.
Regional Medical Director
Texas Department of State Health Services
601 West Sesame Drive
Harlingen, Texas 78550, Mail Code 1907
(956) 423-0130
Jace Tunnell, Project Manager
Coastal Bend Bays and Estuaries Program
1305 N. Shoreline, Suite 205
Corpus Christi, TX 78401
(361) 885-6245
(361) 883-7801 - Fax
San Patricio County has one station at a recreational beach that is being sampled. The location is
primarily utilized for wade fishing and a kayak launch.
C-19
Station
ID
Station Name
Beach Name
EPA Beach
ID
Latitude
Longitude
SAN001
Nueces Bay Causeway
#3
Highway 35 - Nueces
Bay Causeway
TX139394
27.854111
-97.358056
San Patricio County Beach Location
D-1
APPENDIX D - PROJECT MANAGER SIGNATURE PAGE
D-2
PROJECT MANAGER SIGNATURE PAGE
By my signature below, I attest that I have read and understand the Quality Assurance Project
Plan for ___________________________ County.
Project Manager
Project Manager (Print Name)
Date
E-1
APPENDIX E - CONTRACTOR AND DATA REVIEW TEMPLATE
E-2
CONTRACTOR AND DATA REVIEW TEMPLATE
The following review was conducted on [insert date] by (insert name), Quality Assurance
Officer, Texas Beach Watch Program during the normal sampling conducted by [insert lab tech
name], [insert name of laboratory], at various sampling points in [insert county name] County.
Sample processing was observed at the laboratory. [Insert lab tech name] performed the sample
processing.
Questions/Documentation
Yes/No
Comments
Sample Collection Containers
Are samples collected in sterilized
polypropylene bottles with a volume of
at least 125 ml, but no more than 1000
ml?
Are collection bottles kept sealed until
immediately prior to taking the sample?
Sample Collection Depth and Location
Are the samples being collected at the
appropriate standing depth? (Knee
depth (~2 ft), this may change if the
majority of the recreational activity
occurs in a significantly different depth
or if the distance to achieve a sampling
depth is greater than 50 meters from the
water line.)
Are samples collected as near as
possible to the access points of a beach?
E-3
Questions/Documentation
Yes/No
Comments
Sample Collection Procedure
Is the sub recipient following the step-
by-step field-sampling methods outlined
under B2 of the QAPP? (From
Appendix J of the National Beach
Guidance and Performance Criteria for
Recreational Water (EPA-823-B-02-
004) June 2002.)
Sample Handling and Labeling
Are sample-holding times (of no longer
than six hours from collection to
delivery) being met?
Are samples being maintained at a
temperature of <10º Celsius (C) and
stored in insulated containers during
transit to the laboratory?
Is each sample bottle properly labeled
with the following information: date and
time of collection, sampler's name,
sample letters, and station number?
Sample Collection Times and Frequency
Is one sample being collected per
station?
Is re-sampling being conducted on a
daily basis when the result value
exceeds the recommended standard?
E-4
Questions/Documentation
Yes/No
Comments
Is sample collection occurring between
sunrise and noon?
Are field replicates being collected and
analyzed by field personnel at the
appropriate frequency?
Does re-sampling occur within two
hours of a count that exceeds standards
(when possible)?
Does sample collection follow the
schedule as outlined in the work plan?
The required collection period is on
Tuesday with Monday and Wednesday
as alternate days (Multiple days may be
needed to collect all of the samples).
Recording and Chain of Custody
Do field personnel document rainfall
and tidal information to explain sample
collection difficulties?
Is the Beach Watch Coordinator
contacted if there are sampling
difficulties?
E-5
Questions/Documentation
Yes/No
Comments
Are Chain of Custody (COC)
procedures followed whenever samples
are collected, transferred, stored, and
analyzed?
Were missed sampling events
(completeness <100%) explained and
documented?
Analytical Method
Are the samples analyzed using either
EPA’s Method 1600: 24 hour
Membrane Filter Test or IDEXX’s
Enterolert™ system?
Are the sample results being entered
into the Beach Watch Database, through
the web, within two hours of receiving
them?
Local Project Manager Duties
Does the sub recipient have a training
manual for new hires on procedures,
protocol, etc? Has a copy been provided
to the Beach Watch Program?
E-6
Questions/Documentation
Yes/No
Comments
Does the project manager periodically
verify the completeness of field
sampling records prior to data entry?
Quality Control Requirements
Has the sub recipient submitted its
QA/QC plan that has been certified and
approved by TCEQ?
Are duplicate lab samples being
conducted in the lab to verify precision?
Is it being conducted for 10% of the
samples?
Is the sub recipient documenting that
sterilization of lab autoclaves occurs?
Is documentation being maintained on
daily incubation temperatures?
Is documentation being maintained on
calibration of lab equipment used?
E-7
Questions/Documentation
Yes/No
Comments
Are testing, inspection, maintenance,
and calibration of laboratory equipment
being conducted as prescribed by
laboratory QA manuals and as specified
by each equipment manufacturer’s
owner’s manual?
Record Keeping
Are both hard copies and electronic files
containing field and laboratory data will
be stored for three years?
*Upon review of the laboratory, the following corrective actions are recommended:
[Insert Name] Date
Texas Beach Watch Quality Assurance Officer
[Insert Name] Date
Texas Beach Watch Program Coordinator
