FOUR MILE CREEK AT LINE 8 Water Sampling Report

Meghan Trimble, Stephanie Hastie & Jessica Neufeld April 21, 2015

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Executive Summary

A water sampling study was conducted in Four Mile Creek at Line 8 and Four Mile Creek Road

in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario on April 8, 2015. The study was completed in order to

determine the quality of the water body, identify current water conditions and further identify

potential sources of contamination from surrounding activities. Further objectives identified for

the study include the following:

1. Assess water quality at the sampling site using field and lab methods, and to compare the

results to applicable guidelines;

2. Determine stream flow and contaminant loadings at the sampling site; and

3. Identify potential contaminant sources that are impacting the sampling site based on

existing land use.

Currently, the site is privately owned and estimated to be used as residential/agricultural

property. The surrounding properties are a mixture of residential homes with domesticated

animals, a construction zone and to the west and northwest aerial photographs provide evidence

of a quarry site. The combination of these activities creates pollutants that drain into the

watershed and are the cause of the contamination found in the sample site.

After further lab analysis, the water sampling study conducted in Four Mile Creek was able to

identify the following:

A high, slightly basic pH and an unusually low conductivity on site

The Quanti-Tray method used to determine E. coli concentrations showed all large wells

with fluorescence and 23 small wells with fluorescence. All four parameters were found

to exceed provincial or Canadian Water Quality Standards.

Phosphorus, Nitrate, Aluminum, Cobalt, Lead, Zinc Copper and Vanadium were all

found to greatly exceed the Provincial Water Quality Standards.

The FU002 site (sampling site) was compared to two other sites downstream in order to

compare results. It was found that the presence of contaminants was much more prevalent

in the FU002 site and in much higher concentrations. It is possible that the high level of

contaminants at FU002 were the result of work activities at the quarry to the northwest,

as well as agricultural activities. Another potential cause for the increased level of

contaminants at FU002 is the rain event that occurred in the hours before and at the time

of sampling.

In summary the water sampling study found that the high concentrations of metals found at the

study site were a result of surrounding agricultural and quarry activities. These concentrations

greatly exceeded the Provincial Water Quality Standards and are therefore considered a danger

to environmental health.

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Table of Contents

1.0 Introduction ................................................................................................................... 1

1.1 Study Objectives ........................................................................................................ 1

1.2 Description of the Study Area.................................................................................... 1

1.2.1 Geographic Information ...................................................................................... 1

1.2.2 Current Land Use ................................................................................................ 1

1.2.3 Historical Land Use............................................................................................. 2

1.2.4 Watershed Information........................................................................................ 2

1.2.5 Soil Type and Surficial Geology ......................................................................... 2

2.0 Methodology .................................................................................................................. 3

2.1 QA/QC ....................................................................................................................... 4

2.1.1 Quality Assurance ............................................................................................... 4

2.1.2 Quality Control.................................................................................................... 4

2.2 Limitations ................................................................................................................. 5

3.0 Results............................................................................................................................ 5

4.0 Discussion ...................................................................................................................... 7

4.1 Results ........................................................................................................................ 7

4.2 Comparison to Similar Sites ...................................................................................... 9

5.0 Conclusion ................................................................................................................... 10

References.......................................................................................................................... 10

Appendices ........................................................................................................................ 11

Appendix A- Field Sheets & Site Sketch....................................................................... 11

Appendix B- Maps ......................................................................................................... 14

Appendix C- Aerial Photographs ................................................................................... 15

Appendix D- Site Photographs ...................................................................................... 18

Appendix E- Lab Photographs ....................................................................................... 31

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1.0 Introduction

A water sampling study was conducted in Four Mile Creek at Line 8 and Four Mile Creek Road

in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. The study was completed in order to assess the quality of the

water in Four Mile Creek as well as to identify potential sources of contamination.

Understanding the quality and composition of water bodies such as streams, rivers, ponds and

lakes is important for the assessment of risks to both ecosystem and human health.

The following report outlines the soil sampling and analysis methodology that was used in Four

Mile Creek and the lab in April of 2015, as well as a discussion of the results. The water sample

was taken on the northern side of Line 8, which is located west of Four Mile Creek Road.

1.1 Study Objectives

The objectives of the study are to:

a. assess water quality at the sampling site using field and lab methods, and to compare the

results to applicable guidelines;

b. determine stream flow and contaminant loadings at the sampling site; and

c. Identify potential contaminant sources that are impacting the sampling site based on

existing land use.

1.2 Description of the Study Area

1.2.1 Geographic Information

The sampling site is located at Four Mile Creek on Line 8 in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario. The

sample was taken from the creek on the north site of Line 8, west of Four Mile Creek Road. The

sampling site has been assigned the site code FU002.

1.2.2 Current Land Use

The property on which the sample was taken is currently privately owned, and is likely used as

residential and/or agricultural land by the property owner. The surrounding land use is mainly

agricultural, with residential homes to the south of the sampling location across the road from

Line 8. From the road, it appeared that one of the residential properties has two or three horses.

Another property on the south side of Line 8 is possibly owned by a dog breeder, as multiple

Great Pyreneese could be seen in a pen at the back of the property. The residential homes

appeared to be relatively new builds, and the construction of a new home was also taking place

on the south side of Line 8. Roadside drainage on both the north and south side of Line 8 runs

directly into Four Mile Creek, and is likely spreading contaminants from the activities and

sources mentioned above.

To the west and northwest of the sampling site is a fenced property. There was no visual

indication of what activities were taking place on the property from the road, however a

warehouse and construction equipment could be seen (See Appendix D – Figures 19 and 20).

From aerial photographs, it is apparent that the property is currently being used as a quarry (See

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Appendix C – Figure 9). Research into the exact activities taking place on the property provided

near nil results; however, an amended environmental compliance approval issued by the Ministry

of the Environment on May 27, 2013 was located. The property is owned by Hanson Brick of

Burlington, Ontario, whom requested approval for an existing sewage works for the collection,

transmission, treatment, and disposal of groundwater and surface water accumulating in the

excavated area of the quarry. The environmental compliance approval requires effluent

monitoring of field pH, discharge flow measurement, total suspended solids, oil, and grease be

completed on a weekly basis (MOECC, 2013). It is very likely that these wastewater ponds are

sources of contamination for Four Mile Creek.

1.2.3 Historical Land Use

A 1934 aerial photograph shows that the sampling area was used primarily for agricultural

purposes (See Appendix C – Figure 5). Residential homes are also visible on the south side of

Line 8. The 2000 aerial photograph reveals that vegetation at the sampling site has overgrown,

and does not change over the next 15 years.

In the 2000 aerial photograph, three settling pond cells are visible on the property to the

northwest of the sampling site (See Appendix C – Figure 6). By 2002, an additional cell can be

seen to the west (See Appendix C – Figure 7). The 2010 aerial photograph reveals that during

that time, the water collected in the cells has decreased. Research into the purpose and activities

associated with the settling pond provided nil results.

1.2.4 Watershed Information

The sample area is located within the Niagara-on-the-Lake watershed planning area, and within

the Four Mile Creek subwatershed. The Niagara-on-the-Lake watershed includes lands drained

by watercourses and municipal drains discharging into the Welland Canal, Lake Ontario, and the

Niagara River. The watershed also drains north of the Niagara Escarpment between the Niagara

River and the Welland Canal (Aquafor Beech Ltd., 2008).

1.2.5 Soil Type and Surficial Geology

The sampling area in Niagara-on-the-Lake, Ontario is part of the Queenston bedrock formation

(Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority, 2005). The sampling site consists of both Toledo

soils and Jeddo soils.

Toledo soils are mainly lacustrine silty clay. These soils occur on poorly drained portions of land

and can be found in mainly the eastern part of the Niagara Region. Toledo soil topography

ranges from level to very gently sloping. Toledo soils developed on medium to deep-water,

glaciolacustrine clay depositions, and usually consist of silty clay but can also contain thin layers

of sandy, silt, or clay loams (Presant and Acton, 1984).

Jeddo soils are mainly reddish-hued clay loam till (Ontario Institute of Pedology, 1989). Like

Toledo soils, Jeddo soils also have poor drainage and its conductivity is typically medium to low.

These soils are typically level, with a simple (1%) slope (Kingston and Presant, 1989).

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Figure 1 Map of the Sampling Area

2.0 Methodology

This experiment was conducted at 4 Mile Creek where it crosses with Line 8 in Niagara-on-the-

Lake, Ontario. The site is located at x: 654005.12, y: 4781821.98. The sampling was done

downstream (North) of the road in order to obtain a more accurate representation of all

tributaries meeting upstream on the southern side of Line 8.

Sampling occurred at FU002 between 2:30 PM and 3:30 PM on April 8, 2015. Upon arrival on

site, observations were taken such as time, temperature and weather. The stream was observed

for: colour, odour, turbidity, riparian buffer, canopy cover, visible erosion, rockiness, algae,

wildlife, surrounding land use and additional observations. After this was completed,

measurements were taken from the stream using portable water quality measurement tools.

Water quality monitoring included: pH, conductivity, temperature of the water, and dissolved

oxygen. Site photos were taken, and a site sketch completed.

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Flow measurements were completed using the ball float method and a tennis ball. The ball was

released in the middle of the stream and time recorded for a 3 meter distance.This was done

instead of the panel method because of limitations such as high flow, and dangerous conditions.

This number was divided by 3 to get the velocity of the water, and the flow calculated using the

velocity and cross section of the stream. The cross section of the stream was calculated by

multiplying the depth and wetted width. Depth of the stream was taken in the middle of the

stream using a meter stick. Bankfull and wetted width were obtained using an approximation and

a meter stick.

All samples were collected wearing nitrile gloves. A clean bottle was used to fill the sample

bottles containing chemicals to prevent overfilling. Times were recorded for each sample, and

placed in a plastic bag for transport. No insulated transportation for the samples was used at the

time of this experiment.

Upon arrival back at the lab, all samples were properly labelled and provided to the instructor

with time of sampling in order to complete a chain of custody before their arrival at the

laboratory. All samples were refrigerated immediately.

Chloride analysis was completed one week after sampling, with the sample refrigerated in the

week prior to analysis. Analysis was done using a spectrophotometer Hach Dr2800, mercuric

thiocyanate, ferric ion solution, pipettes, cuvettes, and nitrile gloves. Nitrate analysis was

completed using the LaMotte Nitrate Nitrogen table kit, which is able to detect between 0-15

ppm. E. Coli analysis was done using the QuantiTray2000 method.

2.1 QA/QC

2.1.1 Quality Assurance

Various quality assurance measures were taken in order to ensure that a high quality sample was

obtained. This includes the following:

● Times were recorded for all sample collection, in accordance with the chain of custody.

● A chain of custody was organized for all samples received by the lab.

● Samples were maintained at close to their original temperature, and placed in the fridge

immediately upon arrival at the lab.

● All bottles were labelled appropriately.

● All personnel were trained to use equipment used for sample collection and analysis

● Gloves were worn during sample collection.

● A clean sample bottle was used to fill sample bottles containing chemicals in order to

prevent overfilling the sample bottles.

2.1.2 Quality Control

A variety of quality control measures were taken to ensure that the data collected was of high

quality with minimal source of error. This includes the following:

● All equipment was appropriately cleaned before and after use in the lab.

● All personnel wore gloves during measurement activities.

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● Any training was completed before entering the lab and using equipment.

2.2 Limitations

Some limitations were observed over the course of this experiment at 4-Mile Creek. It is

important to note any limitations or assumptions made so that the accuracy of the results can be

gauged appropriately. The limitations and assumptions made over the course of this experiment

include the following:

● Particularly high flow due to rainfall event was observed on site at the time of

observation and sampling.

● Possible increased turbidity due to increased flow at the site.

● Due to rainfall, electronics containing time and calculating information could not be in

constant use. Some times are estimated within a 5 minute period.

● Personnel on site were unable to enter stream due to depth, high flow, and slippery

sediment/low rockiness. Depth was taken from an approximate center of the stream using

a meter stick from the edge of the stream. Wetted width and bankfull width are

approximate. Flow was calculated using the float method and a tennis ball.

● Samples were not refrigerated during travel from the site.

3.0 Results

The weather conditions on the day of observation and sampling at 4-Mile Creek on April 8, 2015

included light-medium rain, wind and a temperature of 4˚C. Rainy conditions were present in the

surrounding areas for approximately 24 hours prior to observation and sampling.

Table 1.0 - Field Observations made at 4-Mile Creek

Criteria Description

Colour Light grey-brown

Odour No detectable odour

Turbidity Completely opaque

(Air) Temperature 4˚C (0˚C with wind chill)

Riparian Buffer High levels of vegetation observed on the west bank, and less to none on the steeper east bank.

Canopy Cover Due to season, surrounding trees were bare at the time of sampling and therefore minor to no canopy cover was observed.

Visible Erosion East bank appeared very eroded and steep.

Rockiness 0 rockiness was observed at the site location.

Presence of Algae None observed.

Wildlife Observations No life was observed in the creek at the time of observation.

Additional No riffles were observed on or near site. Site was located directly downstream of a rural road and culvert.

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Water quality monitoring was done on site at the time of observations. This included

measurement of the creek pH, temperature, conductivity and dissolved oxygen. The location was

found to have a high, slightly basic pH and an unusually low conductivity.

Table 2 - 4 Mile Creek Water Quality Monitoring Values Water Quality Parameters Results

pH 7.98

Temperature (˚C) 5.6 ˚C

Conductivity (µS/cm) 932 µS/cm

Dissolved oxygen (mg/L and % sat) 11.39 mg/L 89.9 % sat

Flow was calculated using the float method, stream measurements and some simple calculations.

The resulting stream flow was determined to be 3.77 m3/s (see Table 3).

Table 3 - Stream Measurements and Flow Calculations

Measurement Value/Calculation

Bankfull Width 2.21 meters

Wetted Width 2.15 meters

Stream Depth 0.89 meters

Float Method Measurement 5.92 s to travel 3 meters

Velocity 1.97m/s

Stream Cross Section

= Wetted Width x Depth = 2.15 meters x 0.89 meters = 1.91 m2

Stream Flow = Stream Cross Section x Velocity = 1.91 m2 x 1.97 m/s = 3.77 m3/s

Additional lab analysis was done in order to determine a more thorough analysis of stream

characteristics and health. This included an analysis of metals, total phosphorus, chloride, nitrate,

and E. Coli. The Quanti-Tray method used to determine E. Coli concentrations showed all large

wells with fluorescence, and 23 small wells with fluorescence. All four parameters were found to

exceed provincial or Canadian water quality standards.

Table 4 - 4-Mile Creek Lab Analysis Results Analysis Parameters Standards Results Total Phosphorus 0.03 mg/L (PWQO) 0.40 mg/L

Chloride 120mg/L

(Canadian Water Quality

Guidelines)

120mg/L

Nitrate

2.93mg/L

(Canadian Water Quality Guidelines)

4.4 ppm = 4.4 mg/L

E. Coli 100 bacteria per 100 mL (PWQO) 410.6 bacteria per 100 mL

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Table 5 - Lab Analysis results cont. (Metals and Non-Metal elements)

Analyte PWQO / IPWQO Results Unit

Silver (Ag) 0.0001 <0.0001 mg/L

Aluminum (Al) 0.075 8.92 mg/L

Boron (B) 0.200 0.03 mg/L

Barium (Ba) N/A 0.18 mg/L

Beryllium (Be) 0.011 <0.0005 mg/L

Cadmium (Cd) 0.0002 0.0001 mg/L

Cobalt (Co) 0.0009 0.0051 mg/L

Chromium (Cr) N/A 0.011 mg/L

Copper (Cu) 0.005 0.020 mg/L

Iron (Fe) 0.30 11.8 mg/L

Manganese (Mn) N/A 0.47 mg/L

Molybdenum (Mo) 0.040 <0.005 mg/L

Nickel (Ni) 0.025 0.013 mg/L

Lead (Pb) 0.005 0.014 mg/L

Silicon (Si) N/A 30.7 mg/L

Strontium (Sr) N/A 0.431 mg/L

Titanium (Ti) N/A 0.10 mg/L

Thallium (Tl) 0.0003 <0.0001 mg/L

Vanadium (V) 0.006 0.014 mg/L

Zinc (Zn) 0.02 0.09 mg/L

4.0 Discussion

4.1 Results

The pH of the stream at the time of sampling was 7.98. To compare, pure water at 25 degrees

Celsius has a pH of approximately 7 (US EPA, 2012). A pH range of 6.5 to 9.0 is ideal for the

life of freshwater fish and invertebrates; however, the toxicity of pollutants may be affected by

changes in acidity or alkalinity within this range, making those chemicals more toxic and

therefore dangerous to aquatic life (Burton and Pitt, 2002).

Phosphorus totalled 0.40 mg/L, which is 1900% (0.38 mg/L) higher that the Interim Provincial

Water Quality Objective of 0.02 mg/L. High phosphorus concentrations are associated with the

accelerated eutrophication of water and the saturation of phosphates in soil. Increased nutrients

such as phosphorus and nitrogen in water bodies and streams is often attributed to urban land use

sources such as sewage from septic systems, detergents, and fertilizers (Burton and Pitt, 2002).

Agricultural sources of phosphorus include effluent from agricultural til lines, return flow from

irrigation, and cattle. There are natural sources of phosphorus as well; human bodies, birds, the

decomposition of plants, and atmospheric fallout are also contributors (Burton and Pitt, 2002).

The high levels of Total Phosphorous at the sampling site is likely the result of agricultural and

residential fertilizers, effluent, and animal feces.

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Chloride totalled 120 mg/L, which meets the Canadian Water Quality Guideline of 120 mg/L.

Despite meeting the guideline, the amount of chloride is still a concern as it has the potential to

go above this standard. High chloride concentrations are associated with de-icing applications

(Burton and Pitt, 2002). As the sampling was completed in the early spring, it is likely that the

higher than standard concentration of chloride was the result of leftover road salts entering the

creek through runoff.

The Quanti-Tray method used to determine E. coli concentrations showed all large wells and 23

small wells had high levels of the bacteria. The results totalled 410.6 bacteria per 100 mL of the

sample water, which is more than four times higher than the Provincial Water Quality Objective

of 100 bacterial per 100 mL of water. The high levels of E. coli bacteria are likely the result of

animal fecal waste that has entered the creek through runoff from local properties.

Nitrate totalled 4.4 mg/L, which is a 50.17% (1.47 mg/L) increase from the Canadian Water

Quality Guideline of 2.93 mg/L. Major sources of nitrogen are wastewaters, septic tanks, and

feed lot discharges, however it can be sourced from a number of activities including fertilizer,

animal waste, landfill leachate, atmospheric fallout, automobile exhausts, and losses from natural

sources (Burton and Pitt, 2002). Nitrate and nitrite have the potential to harm human and animal

health, by impairing oxygen transport to the brain (Burton and Pitt, 2002). The increased

concentration of nitrate at the sampling site is likely the result of fertilizers from agricultural and

residential activities, automobile exhaust from local traffic, wastewater from the quarry, and

animal waste from horses and other animals in the area.

Aluminum totalled 8.92 mg/L, which is 11.793% (8.845 mg/L) higher than the Interim

Provincial Water Quality Objective of 0.075 mg/L. Anthropogenic sources of aluminum include

aluminum sulphate compounds in water treatment, effluent discharge from industrial operations

such as paper mills and aluminum manufacturing, water distribution systems made from metallic

pipes and tanks, mining, and acid rain (Butcher, 1988). It is likely that the high aluminum

concentrations are the result of activities at the quarry to the northwest.

Cobalt totalled 0.0051 mg/L. which is 466.6% (0.0042 mg/L) higher than the Provincial Water

Quality Objective of 0.0009 mg/L. Cobalt is present in a variety of ores including nickel, silver,

lead, copper, and iron. Some anthropogenic sources include mining activities, exhaust from

vehicles, sewage effluents, urban runoff and agricultural runoff (Nagpal, 2004). It is likely that

the high levels of cobalt at the sampling site are the result of quarry activities, associated

wastewater, local traffic, and agricultural activities.

Copper totalled 0.020 mg/L, which is 300% (0.015 mg/L) higher than the Provincial Water

Quality Objective of 0.005 mg/L. Increased copper in water bodies and streams is often

associated with urban land use activities such as the wear of moving engine parts, metal plating,

fungicides and insecticides (Burton and Pitt, 2002). It is possible that the high concentration of

copper is associated with local traffic, as well as quarry and agricultural activities.

Iron totalled 11.8 mg/L, which is 3833.3% (11.5 mg/L) higher than the Provincial Water Quality

Objective of 0.30 mg/L. Large amounts of iron in water bodies and streams is often associated

9

with urban land use sources such as rusting automobile parts and steel structures (Burton and

Pitt, 2002). On the south side of Line 8, a vehicle was visible on a residential property’s front

lawn. From Google Map’s street view, it became apparent that the vehicle had been placed there

since at least 2010. It is possible that the rusting of this vehicle and the runoff from the property

is associated with the high iron concentrations, although the quarry seems to be the greatest

culprit.

Lead totalled 0.014 mg.L, which is 180% (0.009 mg/L) higher than the Provincial Water Quality

Objective of 0.005 mg/L. Large amounts of lead in water bodies and streams is often associated

with urban land use sources such as motor oil, lubricants, batteries, bearing wear, paint, and

vehicle exhaust (Burton and Pitt, 2002). Increased lead concentrations are likely associated with

vehicles in the area, farming equipment, and quarry activities.

Vanadium totalled 0.014 mg/L, which is 133.3% (0.008 mg/L) higher than the Interim Provincial

Water Quality Objective of 0.006 mg/L. Vanadium occurs naturally in the environment and is

often the result of deposition, soil erosion, and leaching from rocks and soils. The anthropogenic

sources of vanadium include leaching from ores and clays, slags, sewage sludge, and fertilizers

(USDHHS, 2012). It is likely that the high concentration of vanadium at the sampling site is the

result of quarry activities and its associated wastewater.

Zinc totalled 0.090 mg/L. which is 200% (0.060 mg/L) higher than the Provincial Water Quality

Objective of 0.030 mg/L. Large amounts of zinc in water bodies and streams is often associated

with urban land use sources such as galvanized building materials, tire wear, motor oil, and

grease (Burton and Pitt, 2002). The high levels of zinc at the sampling site are likely associated

with quarry activities, local construction, and local vehicles.

4.2 Comparison to Similar Sites

Two additional sites along Four Mile Creek were also sampled on the same day as the FU002

sampling. FU003 and FU004 are both located downstream from FU002, and were sampled in

the morning between 8:30 and 10:30 AM on April 8, 2015. The results of the water sampling at

both FU003 and FU004 were very similar; however, the results differ greatly from FU002, which

was taken upstream several hours later. Both FU003 and FU004 show above standard levels for

only Aluminum, Iron and Total Phosphorous, and are significantly lower than the results of

FU002 discussed above.

The increased levels of Aluminum, Iron, and Total Phosphorus, as well as other analyses, at

FU002 may be the result of activities taking place around the time of sampling. As FU003 and

FU004 samples were taken in the morning, the water may not have been impacted at the same

intensity by activities that are done during typical work hours. It is possible that the high level of

contaminants at FU002 were the result of work activities at the quarry to the northwest, as well

as agricultural activities.

Another potential cause for the increased level of contaminants at FU002 is the rain event that

occurred in the hours before and at the time of sampling. On April 8, 2015, the rain began

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around 11:00 AM and lasted for a good majority of the day. Therefore, the FU003 and FU004

samples were not impacted by this weather event. Rain has the potential to spread contaminants

from elevated areas to lakes, rivers, and streams, which would explain the increased level of

pollutants in the FU002 sample.

5.0 Conclusion

In summary, the study found significant concentrations of metals at the sampling site, as well as

the presence of E.coli. These findings are suspected to be the result of the agricultural, quarry

and construction activities that are taking place surrounding the site. Section 4.2 supports this

theory as the samples taken downstream reported a lesser concentration of contaminants. The

concentrations found greatly exceeded the Provincial Water Quality Standards and are therefore

considered a danger to environmental health.

References

Burton, G. Allen and Robert E. Pitt. (2002). Stormwater Effects Handbook: A Toolbox for Watershed Managers,

Scientists, and Engineers. Retrieved from:

http://rpitt.eng.ua.edu/Publications/BooksandReports/Stormwater%20Effects%20Handbook%20by%20%20Burton

%20and%20Pitt%20book/lowrezhandbook.pdf

Ministry of Environment and Energy. (1994). Policies, Guidelines, Provincial Water Quality Objectives. Retrieved

from: https://www.ontario.ca/document/water-management-policies-guidelines-provincial-water-quality-objectives

Niagara Peninsula Conservation Authority. (2005). Groundwater Study. Scale: 1:250,000. Retrieved from:

https://niagara.blackboard.com/bbcswebdav/pid-2032669-dt-content-rid-

5765889_1/courses/1151_ENVR9103_AA/Figure_2-8_BedrockGeology.pdf

Ontario Institute of Pedology. (1989). Soils of St. Catharines – Niagara-on-the-Lake. Regional Municipality of

Niagara, Ontario. Sheet 3. Scale: 1:25,000.

U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. (2012). What is pH? Retrieved on November 19, 2014 from

http://www.epa.gov/acidrain/measure/ph.html.

Kingston, M. S. and E. W. Presant. (1989). The Soils of the Regional Municipality of Niagara: Volume 2. The

Ontario Institute of Pedology. Retrieved from: http://sis.agr.gc.ca/cansis/publications/surveys/on/on60/on60-

v2_report.pdf.

Ministry of the Environment and Climate Change (MOECC). (2013). Amended Environmental Compliance Approval: Number 7259-95JQ. Province of Ontario. Retrieved from:

http://www.environet.ene.gov.on.ca/instruments/7708-92VPVC-13.pdf.

Aquafor Beetch Limited. (2008). Niagara-on-the-Lake Watershed Study. Retrieved from: http://www.npca.ca/wp-

content/uploads/NOTLWatershedStudyReportJune2008.pdf.

Butcher, G. A. (1988). Water Quality Criteria for Aluminium - Technical Appendix. Ministry of Environment and

Parks, Province of British Columbia. Retrieved from:

http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wat/wq/BCguidelines/aluminum/aluminumtech.pdf.

Nagpal, N.K. (2004). Technical Report - Water Quality Guidelines for Cobalt. Ministry of Water, Land, and Air

Protection. Retrieved from :http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/wat/wq/BCguidelines/cobalt/cobalt_tech.pdf.

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U.S. Department of Health and Human Services (USDHHS). (2012). Toxicological Profile for Vanadium. Retrieved

from: http://www.atsdr.cdc.gov/toxprofiles/tp58.pdf.

Appendices

Appendix A- Field Sheets & Site Sketch

Figure 1- Field Sheet 1

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Figure 2- Field Sheet 2

13

Figure 3-Site Sketch

14

Appendix B- Maps

Figure 4- Site Map

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Appendix C- Aerial Photographs

Figure 5- Aerial Photograph 1934

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Figure 6- Aerial Photograph 2000

Figure 7- Aerial Photograph 2002

17

Figure 8- Aerial Photograph 2006

Figure 9- Aerial Photograph 2010

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Appendix D - Site Photographs

Figure 10 - Line 8, and an unused car present near the site.

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Figure 11 - Western view of site.

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Figure 12 - Western view of site, with guard rails indicating proximity to the road.

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Figure 13 - Sampling site view downstream

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Figure 14 - Sampling Site view upstream

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Figure 15 - Visible Erosion on Eastern Bank

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Figure 16 - Road-side ditch upstream of the sampling site

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Figure 17 - Upstream of sampling site

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Figure 18 - Surrounding land use including agriculture, a natural gas pipeline (bottom-middle), and unknown material

storage (upper-right)

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Figure 19 - Construction machinery upstream of the sampling site

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Figure 20 - Construction on Delmonte Property upstream of sampling site

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Figure 21 - Agricultural landuse upstream of the sampling site

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Figure 22 - Waste pile upstream of the sampling site

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Appendix E - Lab Photographs

Figure 23 - Quanti-Tray 2000 analysis