Turbidity in Highway Construction Site Runoff: Preparing for Numerical Effluent Limits
Publication: Journal of Environmental Engineering
Volume 140, Issue 4
Abstract
A numerical turbidity limit that will affect highway construction sites to meet a standard turbidity value in the runoff was to be implemented in 2013. Although the limit appears to be deferred to future permits, this study addresses multiple turbidity issues that are relevant in implementations of numerical limits for construction storm water quality. Background turbidity maps are created to graphically present the natural turbidity background levels in the state of Texas, and those maps are compared with the proposed numerical limit; the median value map is interpreted as supportive of a regionally adjusted numerical limit. The water and solids color effect on turbidity measurement is evaluated, in addition to the use of sample dilution to extend instrument range. Substantial turbidity measurement differences between two different types of turbidimeters (field portable and bench) is explored, and a cause is postulated. Two construction sites were monitored to develop a reasonable protocol for self-reporting, should future permits require such activity. The results suggest that adjustable numerical limits should be used in future permits if such permits require monitoring; water and solids color effects are negligible for intended application; sample dilution can extend instrument range, but diluted samples under-report turbidity; and the selection of instrumentation is nontrivial.
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Acknowledgments
The authors would like to acknowledge the support from Amy Foster, the project director at the Texas Department of Transportation, and from Davis Melton at the Lubbock District Office. The authors also acknowledge the contributions from their colleagues Dr. Michael Barrett and Dr. Jett McFalls at the University of Texas and Texas A&M, respectively. This study was supported by the Texas Department of Transportation as part of Project No. 0-6638. The contents of this paper reflect the views of the authors, who are responsible for the facts and accuracy of the data presented. The contents do not necessarily reflect official views or policies of the U.S. Department of Transportation, the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, or the Texas Department of Transportation. This paper does not constitute a standard, specification, or regulation.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Environmental Engineering
Volume 140 • Issue 4 • April 2014
Copyright
© 2014 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Aug 1, 2012
Accepted: Nov 14, 2013
Published online: Feb 5, 2014
Published in print: Apr 1, 2014
Discussion open until: Jul 5, 2014
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