ASTM E3344-23
(Guide)Standard Guide for Developing Representative Sediment Background Concentrations at Sediment Sites-Selection of Background Reference Areas
Standard Guide for Developing Representative Sediment Background Concentrations at Sediment Sites-Selection of Background Reference Areas
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE
4.1 Intended Use-This guide may be used by various parties involved in sediment corrective action programs, including regulatory agencies, project sponsors, environmental consultants, toxicologists, risk assessors, site remediation professionals, environmental contractors, and other stakeholders.
4.2 Importance of the CSM-The CSM should be continuously updated and refined to describe the physical properties, chemical composition and occurrence, biologic features, and environmental conditions of the sediment corrective action project (Guide E1689).
4.3 Reference Material-This guide should be used in conjunction with other ASTM guides listed in 2.1 (especially Guides E3242 and E3382); this guide should also be used in conjunction with the material in the References at the end of this guide (including 3). Utilizing these reference materials will direct the user in developing representative sediment background concentrations.
4.4 Flexible Site-Specific Implementation-This guide provides a systematic but flexible framework to accommodate variations in approaches by regulatory agencies and by the user based on project objectives, site complexity, unique site features, regulatory requirements, newly developed guidance, newly published scientific research, changes in regulatory criteria, advances in scientific knowledge and technical capability, and unforeseen circumstances.
4.5 Regulatory Frameworks-This guide is intended to be applicable at a broad range of local, state, tribal, federal (such as CERCLA), or international jurisdictions, each with its own unique regulatory framework. As such, this guide does not provide a detailed discussion of the requirements or guidance associated with any of these regulatory frameworks, nor is it intended to supplant applicable regulations and guidance. The user of this guide will need to be aware of the regulatory requirements and guidance in the jurisdiction where the work is being performed.
4.6 Systematic Project Plan...
SCOPE
1.1 This guide focuses on the selection of sediment background reference areas from aquatic environments for the purpose of developing representative sediment background concentrations. These concentrations are typically used in contaminated sediment corrective actions performed under various regulatory programs, including the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA). Although many of the references cited in this guide are CERCLA-oriented, the guide is applicable to remedial actions performed under local, state, tribal, federal, and international cleanup programs. However, this guide does not describe the requirements for each jurisdiction.
1.1.1 The sediment background reference areas chosen using this guide will need to be approved by the regulatory agency having jurisdiction (or they should take no exception to the areas chosen), especially if the representative background sediment concentrations will potentially be used to develop sediment remedial criteria.
1.2 This guide provides a framework to select appropriate sediment background reference areas for the collection of sediment data in the development of representative sediment background concentrations. It is intended to inform, complement, and support, but not supersede, local, state, tribal, federal, or international guidelines.
1.2.1 This guide is designed to apply to contaminated sediment sites where sediment data have been collected and are readily available. Additionally, it assumes that risk assessments have been performed, so that the potential contaminants of concern (PCOCs) that exceed risk-based thresholds have been identified. This guide can be applied at multiple points within the project life cycle (such as site assessment and remedial design).
1.2.2 Furthermore, this guide presumes that the identified risk-based thresholds are low enough to pose corrective action implementation challenges or that th...
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Frequently Asked Questions
ASTM E3344-23 is a guide published by ASTM International. Its full title is "Standard Guide for Developing Representative Sediment Background Concentrations at Sediment Sites-Selection of Background Reference Areas". This standard covers: SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 4.1 Intended Use-This guide may be used by various parties involved in sediment corrective action programs, including regulatory agencies, project sponsors, environmental consultants, toxicologists, risk assessors, site remediation professionals, environmental contractors, and other stakeholders. 4.2 Importance of the CSM-The CSM should be continuously updated and refined to describe the physical properties, chemical composition and occurrence, biologic features, and environmental conditions of the sediment corrective action project (Guide E1689). 4.3 Reference Material-This guide should be used in conjunction with other ASTM guides listed in 2.1 (especially Guides E3242 and E3382); this guide should also be used in conjunction with the material in the References at the end of this guide (including 3). Utilizing these reference materials will direct the user in developing representative sediment background concentrations. 4.4 Flexible Site-Specific Implementation-This guide provides a systematic but flexible framework to accommodate variations in approaches by regulatory agencies and by the user based on project objectives, site complexity, unique site features, regulatory requirements, newly developed guidance, newly published scientific research, changes in regulatory criteria, advances in scientific knowledge and technical capability, and unforeseen circumstances. 4.5 Regulatory Frameworks-This guide is intended to be applicable at a broad range of local, state, tribal, federal (such as CERCLA), or international jurisdictions, each with its own unique regulatory framework. As such, this guide does not provide a detailed discussion of the requirements or guidance associated with any of these regulatory frameworks, nor is it intended to supplant applicable regulations and guidance. The user of this guide will need to be aware of the regulatory requirements and guidance in the jurisdiction where the work is being performed. 4.6 Systematic Project Plan... SCOPE 1.1 This guide focuses on the selection of sediment background reference areas from aquatic environments for the purpose of developing representative sediment background concentrations. These concentrations are typically used in contaminated sediment corrective actions performed under various regulatory programs, including the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA). Although many of the references cited in this guide are CERCLA-oriented, the guide is applicable to remedial actions performed under local, state, tribal, federal, and international cleanup programs. However, this guide does not describe the requirements for each jurisdiction. 1.1.1 The sediment background reference areas chosen using this guide will need to be approved by the regulatory agency having jurisdiction (or they should take no exception to the areas chosen), especially if the representative background sediment concentrations will potentially be used to develop sediment remedial criteria. 1.2 This guide provides a framework to select appropriate sediment background reference areas for the collection of sediment data in the development of representative sediment background concentrations. It is intended to inform, complement, and support, but not supersede, local, state, tribal, federal, or international guidelines. 1.2.1 This guide is designed to apply to contaminated sediment sites where sediment data have been collected and are readily available. Additionally, it assumes that risk assessments have been performed, so that the potential contaminants of concern (PCOCs) that exceed risk-based thresholds have been identified. This guide can be applied at multiple points within the project life cycle (such as site assessment and remedial design). 1.2.2 Furthermore, this guide presumes that the identified risk-based thresholds are low enough to pose corrective action implementation challenges or that th...
SIGNIFICANCE AND USE 4.1 Intended Use-This guide may be used by various parties involved in sediment corrective action programs, including regulatory agencies, project sponsors, environmental consultants, toxicologists, risk assessors, site remediation professionals, environmental contractors, and other stakeholders. 4.2 Importance of the CSM-The CSM should be continuously updated and refined to describe the physical properties, chemical composition and occurrence, biologic features, and environmental conditions of the sediment corrective action project (Guide E1689). 4.3 Reference Material-This guide should be used in conjunction with other ASTM guides listed in 2.1 (especially Guides E3242 and E3382); this guide should also be used in conjunction with the material in the References at the end of this guide (including 3). Utilizing these reference materials will direct the user in developing representative sediment background concentrations. 4.4 Flexible Site-Specific Implementation-This guide provides a systematic but flexible framework to accommodate variations in approaches by regulatory agencies and by the user based on project objectives, site complexity, unique site features, regulatory requirements, newly developed guidance, newly published scientific research, changes in regulatory criteria, advances in scientific knowledge and technical capability, and unforeseen circumstances. 4.5 Regulatory Frameworks-This guide is intended to be applicable at a broad range of local, state, tribal, federal (such as CERCLA), or international jurisdictions, each with its own unique regulatory framework. As such, this guide does not provide a detailed discussion of the requirements or guidance associated with any of these regulatory frameworks, nor is it intended to supplant applicable regulations and guidance. The user of this guide will need to be aware of the regulatory requirements and guidance in the jurisdiction where the work is being performed. 4.6 Systematic Project Plan... SCOPE 1.1 This guide focuses on the selection of sediment background reference areas from aquatic environments for the purpose of developing representative sediment background concentrations. These concentrations are typically used in contaminated sediment corrective actions performed under various regulatory programs, including the Comprehensive Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA). Although many of the references cited in this guide are CERCLA-oriented, the guide is applicable to remedial actions performed under local, state, tribal, federal, and international cleanup programs. However, this guide does not describe the requirements for each jurisdiction. 1.1.1 The sediment background reference areas chosen using this guide will need to be approved by the regulatory agency having jurisdiction (or they should take no exception to the areas chosen), especially if the representative background sediment concentrations will potentially be used to develop sediment remedial criteria. 1.2 This guide provides a framework to select appropriate sediment background reference areas for the collection of sediment data in the development of representative sediment background concentrations. It is intended to inform, complement, and support, but not supersede, local, state, tribal, federal, or international guidelines. 1.2.1 This guide is designed to apply to contaminated sediment sites where sediment data have been collected and are readily available. Additionally, it assumes that risk assessments have been performed, so that the potential contaminants of concern (PCOCs) that exceed risk-based thresholds have been identified. This guide can be applied at multiple points within the project life cycle (such as site assessment and remedial design). 1.2.2 Furthermore, this guide presumes that the identified risk-based thresholds are low enough to pose corrective action implementation challenges or that th...
ASTM E3344-23 is classified under the following ICS (International Classification for Standards) categories: 13.060.99 - Other standards related to water quality. The ICS classification helps identify the subject area and facilitates finding related standards.
ASTM E3344-23 has the following relationships with other standards: It is inter standard links to ASTM E3344-22, ASTM E3242-23, ASTM E3242-20, ASTM E3382-23, ASTM E3164-23. Understanding these relationships helps ensure you are using the most current and applicable version of the standard.
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Standards Content (Sample)
This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization established in the Decision on Principles for the
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
Designation: E3344 − 23
Standard Guide for
Developing Representative Sediment Background
Concentrations at Sediment Sites—Selection of Background
Reference Areas
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E3344; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope 1.2.2 Furthermore, this guide presumes that the identified
risk-based thresholds are low enough to pose corrective action
1.1 This guide focuses on the selection of sediment back-
implementation challenges or that the sediment site is subject
ground reference areas from aquatic environments for the
to recontamination from ongoing anthropogenic or natural
purpose of developing representative sediment background
sources (or both) that are not controlled. In either case,
concentrations. These concentrations are typically used in
representative sediment background concentrations are useful
contaminated sediment corrective actions performed under
for determining the extent of corrective remedial actions (when
various regulatory programs, including the Comprehensive
used as remedial goals), evaluating risks posed by representa-
Environmental Response, Compensation, and Liability Act
tive background concentrations, and establishing appropriate
(CERCLA). Although many of the references cited in this
post-remedial monitoring plans.
guide are CERCLA-oriented, the guide is applicable to reme-
1.2.3 A case study for selecting a background reference area
dial actions performed under local, state, tribal, federal, and
using a tiered decision analysis approach is presented in
international cleanup programs. However, this guide does not
Appendix X1. It compares various characteristics of a hypo-
describe the requirements for each jurisdiction.
thetical sediment site associated with a former upland manu-
1.1.1 The sediment background reference areas chosen
factured gas plant (MGP) facility to three candidate back-
using this guide will need to be approved by the regulatory
ground reference areas and identifies the background reference
agency having jurisdiction (or they should take no exception to
area that best satisfies the decision analysis objectives.
the areas chosen), especially if the representative background
sediment concentrations will potentially be used to develop
1.3 Methodologies used to develop representative back-
sediment remedial criteria.
ground concentrations at contaminated sediment sites are not
discussed in this guide—refer to Guide E3242 for a discussion
1.2 This guide provides a framework to select appropriate
of these methodologies.
sediment background reference areas for the collection of
sediment data in the development of representative sediment
1.4 Related ASTM Standards—This guide is related to
background concentrations. It is intended to inform,
Guide E3382, which provides the overarching framework for
complement, and support, but not supersede, local, state, tribal,
the development of representative background concentrations
federal, or international guidelines.
at contaminated sediment sites, including Conceptual Site
1.2.1 This guide is designed to apply to contaminated
Model (CSM) considerations. This guide is also related to
sediment sites where sediment data have been collected and are
Guide E3242, which provides a detailed framework for devel-
readily available. Additionally, it assumes that risk assessments
oping representative sediment background concentrations, in-
have been performed, so that the potential contaminants of
cluding statistical and geochemical considerations as well as
concern (PCOCs) that exceed risk-based thresholds have been
background threshold values. This guide is also related to
identified. This guide can be applied at multiple points within
Guide E3164, which addresses corrective action monitoring
the project life cycle (such as site assessment and remedial
before, during, and after sediment remediation activities, as
design).
well as Guide E3163, which concerns sediment sampling and
analytical techniques used during sediment corrective action
projects. Guide D4823, which concerns sediment core
sampling, is also related to this guide.
This guide is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E50 on Environmental
Assessment, Risk Management and Corrective Action and is the direct responsibil-
1.4.1 Specifically, this guide is intended to be used under the
ity of Subcommittee E50.04 on Corrective Action.
overarching framework of Guide E3382, in conjunction with
Current edition approved Sept. 1, 2023. Published November 2023. Originally
the detailed framework to develop representative background
approved in 2022. Last previous edition approved in 2022 as E3344–22. DOI:
10.1520/E3344–23 values outlined in Guide E3242, to help ensure appropriate
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E3344 − 23
background reference areas are chosen for use in representative land-use characteristics as the site being investigated, but are
background concentration development. not affected by site-related releases and/or activities. E3242
1.5 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded 3.1.3 candidate background data set, n—a raw (that is,
unprocessed) background data set obtained either by the
as the standard. No other units of measurement are included in
this guide. collection of data from a background reference area(s), or by
the extraction of background data from the sediment site date
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the
set, or a combination of both. E3382
safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the
responsibility of the user of this standard to establish appro-
3.1.3.1 Discussion—The candidate background data set
priate safety, health, and environmental practices and deter-
must first be evaluated using the steps described in Guide
mine the applicability of regulatory limitations prior to use.
E3242 and Section 5 to obtain a representative background
1.7 This international standard was developed in accor-
data set, which can then be used to develop representative
dance with internationally recognized principles on standard-
background concentrations for the sediment site.
ization established in the Decision on Principles for the
3.1.4 cleanup level, n—the prescribed average or point
Development of International Standards, Guides and Recom-
sediment concentration of a chemical that shall not be ex-
mendations issued by the World Trade Organization Technical
ceeded at the remediated site. E3242
Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
3.1.5 contaminant of concern (COC), n—substances identi-
fied as posing a risk based on a tiered risk assessment and that
2. Referenced Documents
may warrant corrective action. E3382
2.1 ASTM Standards:
3.1.5.1 Discussion—Typically, all PCOCs identified for a
D4823 Guide for Core Sampling Submerged, Unconsoli-
sediment site are evaluated in the risk assessment process.
dated Sediments
PCOCs that have sediment concentrations greater than risk-
E178 Practice for Dealing With Outlying Observations
based thresholds identified in the risk assessment process are
E1689 Guide for Developing Conceptual Site Models for
defined as COCs. Thus, the COCs identified for a sediment site
Contaminated Sites
are a subset of the PCOCs identified for that site.
E3163 Guide for Selection and Application of Analytical
Methods and Procedures Used during Sediment Correc- 3.1.6 conceptual site model (CSM), n—the integrated rep-
resentation of the physical and environmental context, the
tive Action
E3164 Guide for Contaminated Sediment Site Risk-Based complete and potentially complete exposure pathways and the
potential fate and transport of potential contaminants of con-
Corrective Action – Baseline, Remedy Implementation
and Post-Remedy Monitoring Programs cern at a site. E3242
E3240 Guide for Risk-Based Corrective Action for Contami- 3.1.6.1 Discussion—The CSM should include both the cur-
nated Sediment Sites rent understanding of the site and an understanding of the
potential future conditions and uses for the site. It provides a
E3242 Guide for Determination of Representative Sediment
Background Concentrations method to conduct the exposure pathway evaluation, inventory
the exposure pathways evaluated, and determine the status of
E3382 Guide for Developing Representative Background
Concentrations at Sediment Sites — Framework the exposure pathways as incomplete, potentially complete, or
complete.
Overview, Including Conceptual Site Model Consider-
ations
3.1.7 population, n—in statistics, a comprehensive set of
values consisting of all possible observations or measurements
3. Terminology
of a certain phenomenon from which a sample is to be drawn.
3.1 Definitions: E3242
3.1.1 background (aka “reference”), adj—a term applied to
3.1.8 potential contaminant of concern (PCOC), n—a con-
substances, conditions, or locations that are similar to those
taminant whose sediment concentrations at the site may exceed
found at a sediment site but not influenced by current or
applicable screening levels; this includes chemicals of potential
historical releases or activities from the sediment site; these are
environmental concern (COPECs) and chemicals of potential
usually a combination of naturally occurring (consistently
concern (COPCs). E3242
present in the environment but not influenced by human
3.1.9 representative background data set, n—a background
activity) and anthropogenic (influenced by human activity but
data set obtained by evaluating candidate background data
not related to specific current or historical releases or activities
using the steps described in Guide E3242. E3382
at the sediment site) components. E3382
3.1.9.1 Discussion—The evaluation determines if there are
3.1.2 background reference areas, n—sediment areas that
any data points in the candidate background data set that are
have similar physical, chemical, geological, biological, and
not representative of sediment site background conditions.
These data points are then removed from the candidate
background data set (using technically justifiable rationale) to
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or
obtain a representative background data set, which is then used
contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM
to develop representative background concentrations for the
Standards volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on
the ASTM website. sediment site using methodologies described in Guide E3242.
E3344 − 23
3.1.10 representative background concentrations, n—a consultants, toxicologists, risk assessors, site remediation
chemical concentration that is inclusive of naturally occurring professionals, environmental contractors, and other stakehold-
sources and anthropogenic sources similar to those present at a ers.
site, but not related to site releases and site-related activities.
4.2 Importance of the CSM—The CSM should be continu-
3.1.11 sediment(s), n—a matrix of porewater and particles ously updated and refined to describe the physical properties,
including gravel, sand, silt, clay, and other natural and anthro- chemical composition and occurrence, biologic features, and
pogenic substances that have settled at the bottom of a tidal or
environmental conditions of the sediment corrective action
non-tidal body of water. E3163 project (Guide E1689).
3.1.12 sediment site, n—the area(s) defined by the likely 4.3 Reference Material—This guide should be used in
physical distribution of COC(s) from a source area and the
conjunction with other ASTM guides listed in 2.1 (especially
adjacent areas required to implement the corrective action. A Guides E3242 and E3382); this guide should also be used in
site could be an entire water body or a defined portion of a
conjunction with the material in the References at the end of
water body. E3240 this guide (including 3). Utilizing these reference materials will
direct the user in developing representative sediment back-
3.1.13 trace element, n—an element defined as generally
ground concentrations.
being present at less than 0.1 weight percent in the sediment
sample; its natural concentrations are typically one or more 4.4 Flexible Site-Specific Implementation—This guide pro-
orders of magnitude lower than those of the reference
vides a systematic but flexible framework to accommodate
elements. E3242
variations in approaches by regulatory agencies and by the user
based on project objectives, site complexity, unique site
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
features, regulatory requirements, newly developed guidance,
3.2.1 anthropogenic background, n—human-made sub-
newly published scientific research, changes in regulatory
stances present in the environment due to human activities, not
criteria, advances in scientific knowledge and technical
specifically related to current or historical site-related releases
capability, and unforeseen circumstances.
or activities (1).
3.2.1.1 Discussion—The definition of “anthropogenic back- 4.5 Regulatory Frameworks—This guide is intended to be
applicable at a broad range of local, state, tribal, federal (such
ground” varies with jurisdiction. In some jurisdictions, the
as CERCLA), or international jurisdictions, each with its own
regulator defines anthropogenic background as having both
unique regulatory framework. As such, this guide does not
human-made and naturally occurring substances. In this guide,
provide a detailed discussion of the requirements or guidance
the definition of anthropogenic background includes only the
human-made substances. associated with any of these regulatory frameworks, nor is it
intended to supplant applicable regulations and guidance. The
3.2.2 biological reference areas, n—a location that is rep-
user of this guide will need to be aware of the regulatory
resentative of background conditions resulting from localized
requirements and guidance in the jurisdiction where the work
and regional pollutant inputs but is not affected by site-related
is being performed.
releases or activities, which is used to collect biological
samples (such as fish and shellfish tissue, benthic community 4.6 Systematic Project Planning and Scoping Process—
When applying this guide, the user should undertake a system-
organisms) and sediment for laboratory bioassay testing (such
as toxicity or bioaccumulation testing). atic project planning and scoping process to collect information
to assist in making site-specific, user-defined decisions for a
3.2.2.1 Discussion—A biological reference area can also
particular project, including assembling an experienced team
serve as a background reference area, if sediment samples are
of project professionals (that is, experienced practitioners
also submitted for chemical analysis of PCOCs.
familiar with current sediment site characterization and reme-
3.2.3 natural background, n—naturally occurring sub-
diation techniques, as well as geochemistry and statistics).
stances present in the environment in forms (and at concentra-
These practitioners should have the appropriate expertise to
tions) that have not been influenced by human activity (1).
scope, plan, and execute a sediment data acquisition and
3.2.4 urban runoff, n—a non-point source of contaminants
analysis program. This team may include, but is not limited to,
to the water body.
project sponsors, environmental consultants, toxicologists, site
3.2.4.1 Discussion—Typically, this is stormwater from city
remediation professionals, analytical chemists, geochemists,
streets and adjacent properties that carries contaminants into
and statisticians.
receiving waters directly, or indirectly via sewer systems (2).
4.6.1 Depending on the regulatory requirements in a
jurisdiction, the choice of background reference areas may
4. Significance and Use
need to consider critical habitats and ecological receptors.
4.6.2 In this guide, sediment (3.1.11) is defined as material
4.1 Intended Use—This guide may be used by various
being found at the bottom of a water body. Upland soils of
parties involved in sediment corrective action programs, in-
sedimentary origin are excluded from consideration as sedi-
cluding regulatory agencies, project sponsors, environmental
ment in this guide.
4.7 Other Considerations—This guide does not cover all
components of a program to develop representative sediment
The boldface numbers in parentheses refer to the list of references at the end of
this standard. background concentrations.
E3344 − 23
4.7.1 Sediment sampling and laboratory analyses are not contribution of contamination at sediment sites is typically
covered in this guide. Guides E3163 and E3164 contain attributed to current or historical site releases or activities.
extensive information concerning sediment sampling and labo- However, contamination can also result from natural and
ratory analyses. ongoing anthropogenic sources not related to site releases or
4.7.2 Data quality objectives are not covered in this guide. activities. Discharges from combined sewer overflows (CSOs),
Data quality objectives are described in (4). industrial outfalls, and storm sewer systems (municipal and
4.7.3 Background study design considerations are not cov- private), as well as surface runoff, are examples of ongoing
ered in this guide but are described in other references, anthropogenic sources that may be unrelated to site releases or
including Guides E3163 and E3164, as well as (5). activities.
4.7.4 The use of data evaluation methodologies to obtain
5.1.2 Off-site contamination not associated with site re-
representative background data sets from candidate back-
leases or activities is considered a component of representative
ground data sets is not covered in detail in this guide but is
background concentrations and will continue to be a source of
discussed in more depth in Guide E3242.
contamination to the sediment site, unless all transport path-
4.7.4.1 Identification and removal of high nondetect values
ways onto the sediment site are eliminated. A primary objective
from candidate background data sets are discussed in detail in
of determining representative background concentrations is to
Guide E3242.
account for any background chemical input (both natural and
4.7.4.2 Identification and removal of outliers from candidate
anthropogenic) that is expected to continue migrating onto the
background data sets are discussed in detail in Practice E178,
sediment site after the completion of corrective actions. It is
as well as Guide E3242.
recognized that one of the important principles for manage-
4.7.4.3 Geochemical methodologies used in evaluating can-
ment of contaminated sediment sites is the control of back-
didate background data sets to obtain representative back-
ground sources of contamination, to the greatest extent
ground data sets are discussed in detail in Guide E3242; their
practicable, prior to the initiation of corrective actions at the
applications during background reference area selection are
sediment site. However, it is rarely practicable to control all
discussed in this guide.
background sources.
4.7.4.4 Chemical forensics methodologies used in evaluat-
5.1.3 Technically defensible representative background con-
ing candidate background data sets to obtain representative
centrations are those that reflect chemical inputs to a sediment
background data sets are discussed in detail in Guide E3242;
site from ongoing natural and anthropogenic sources unrelated
their applications during background reference area selection
to site releases or activities. In addition to informing or
are discussed in this guide.
establishing technically defensible cleanup levels, representa-
4.7.5 The use of statistical methods to develop BTVs from
tive background concentrations can assist in determining
representative background data sets and to compare such data
sediment site boundaries, understanding risks at a sediment site
sets (or the developed BTVs) to the sediment site data sets are
due to background concentrations, establishing and optimizing
discussed in detail in Guide E3242.
realistic post-remedy monitoring plans, and assessing the
4.7.6 Geospatial analysis considerations are not thoroughly
effectiveness of corrective actions (Guides E3164 and E3242).
discussed in this guidance but are discussed in more depth
5.1.4 In the absence of technically defensible representative
relative to environmental evaluations in (6), which focuses on
background concentrations, risk-based cleanup levels may be
quality assurance concerns relative to geospatial analyses.
used inappropriately at sediment sites where representative
4.7.7 In this guide, only the concentrations of PCOCs are
background concentrations are actually greater than the risk-
considered to be in scope. Residual background radioactivity is
based cleanup levels. Similarly, if the representative back-
out of scope.
ground concentrations have been erroneously calculated, inap-
4.8 Structure and Components of this Guide—The user of propriately low cleanup goals could be used in the corrective
this guide should review the overall structure and components
action evaluation process. Under both circumstances, sediment
of this guide before proceeding with use, including: sites will eventually return to representative background con-
centrations after corrective actions are completed and cleanup
Section 1 Scope
Section 2 Referenced Documents
goals will again be exceeded. Due to exceedances of the
Section 3 Terminology
inappropriately low cleanup goals, the corrective actions would
Section 4 Significance and Use
be perceived as a failure.
Section 5 Overview of Representative Background
Concentrations and Calculation Process
5.1.5 Attempting to implement corrective actions to achieve
Section 6 Background Reference Area Selection Criteria
concentrations less than representative background is not
Section 7 Keywords
Appendix X1 Case Study sustainable over the long-term and can require considerable
References
expenditures that serve no environmental or public health
purpose (Guide E3382). The process described in Guide E3382
5. Overview of Representative Background
is intended to help promote a scientifically sound approach for
Concentrations and Calculation Process
establishing representative background concentrations, leading
5.1 Importance of Representative Background Concentra-
to corrective action decisions that avoid costly perceived
tions: corrective action failures at sediment sites. The subject of this
5.1.1 Multiple sources may contribute to the nature and guide, the selection of suitable background reference areas, is
extent of contamination at many sediment sites. The largest a critical component of the process outlined in Guide E3382.
E3344 − 23
5.2 Overview of Process to Develop Representative Back- various regulatory agencies for the development of represen-
ground Concentrations in Sediment: tative background concentrations for contaminated sediment
5.2.1 Application of background guidance for soil and
sites.
groundwater at upland sites may not be appropriate at sediment
5.2.3 Fig. 1 presents the overall framework to develop
sites. Sediment sites have many different characteristics that
representative background concentrations at a sediment site;
are not present at upland sites (Guide E3242), including
this process is presented in detail in Guide E3382. As a first
physical characteristics, geochemical characteristics, biologi-
step, a thorough understanding of the sediment site is necessary
cal characteristics, and different contaminant emplacement and
before developing representative background concentrations.
transport mechanisms.
This can be accomplished by developing a CSM (refer to
5.2.2 This guide and its associated guides (Guides E3163,
Guides E3240 and E3382). As part of this CSM, the sediment
E3164, E3240, E3242, and E3382) have been developed (in
site PCOCs must be identified.
part) to fill a gap due to the absence of existing guidance from
FIG. 1 Process to Develop Representative Sediment Background Concentrations (Modified from Guide E3382)
E3344 − 23
5.2.4 Once the preliminary sediment site CSM has been possible, without being affected by any site-related impacts.
developed, a suitable background reference area (or areas) can Background reference areas farther away from the sediment
be identified for sampling (that is, the second step in Fig. 1); site may have a different set of ambient conditions compared to
this second step is the focus of this guide. conditions nearby (or adjacent to) the sediment site.
5.2.5 Once analytical data are available for the background
6.2.2 In addition to off-site background reference areas, it
reference area sediment samples, the methodologies described
may be helpful to include background samples from unim-
in detail in Guide E3242 can be utilized to develop represen-
pacted areas of the sediment site, if available. This methodol-
tative background concentrations for the COCs.
ogy is known as “background extraction” and is discussed in
detail in Guide E3242.
6. Background Reference Area Selection Criteria
6.2.3 Notably, selection of a background reference area can
6.1 Selection Rationale—Sediment sites are dynamic in
be complicated because sediment background concentrations
nature; they are constantly receiving suspended sediment from
often represent mixtures of naturally occurring and anthropo-
off-site sources. The background reference area (or areas) used
genic influences. In some cases, these mixtures yield geo-
to calculate representative sediment background concentra-
graphically distinct background populations, such that the
tions should have physical, geological, anthropogenic (land-
background reference area has sub-areas with varying degrees
use), chemical, and biological characteristics that are as similar
of anthropogenic influences. Under such situations, the portion
as possible to the sediment site. Importantly, the background
of the targeted background reference area (or sub-areas) most
reference areas should not be influenced by current or historical
analogous to the sediment site must be selected as the
site-related activities and releases, but they should include
background reference area. Any other choice would result in
ongoing sources that contribute to regional contamination,
unrepresentative background data sets.
including ongoing sources at the sediment site. Typically, any
6.3 Sediment Properties—Specific example characteristics
selected background reference area should not have been
related to this category are listed in Table 1 and discussed in
designated as a contaminated sediment site (that is, contami-
detail in Table 3, which also provides references to related
nated from its own current or historical site-related activities
ASTM documents and the scientific literature.
and releases) by a regulatory agency.
6.1.1 When there are multiple characteristics to consider, 6.3.1 Sediment properties strongly influence the distribution
categorizing and ranking important characteristics can aid in of naturally occurring and anthropogenic background chemi-
background reference area selection decisions. Examples of the cals in the environment; these properties are described in detail
in Table 3. Sediment properties have a direct influence on the
characteristics where the similarity between sediment site and
the candidate background reference areas could be evaluated fate and transport of chemicals, so properties in the background
are summarized in Table 1; these are grouped into three reference area should be as similar as possible to those at the
categories in the table and the characteristics in each category sediment site.
are discussed in more detail in the following sub-sections. The
6.3.2 The sediment properties in Table 3 can be used to
characteristics used in the evaluation process will depend on
inform background reference area selection decisions. It is
site-specific project goals; they could include all of these
important to recognize that site-specific differences related to
example characteristics, some of these example characteristics,
sediment properties such as hydrodynamics, sediment
or characteristics not listed in Table 1.
transport, naturally occurring modifying features, and sediment
geochemistry are inherently spatially and temporally variable.
6.2 Location—Specific example characteristics related to
this category are listed in Table 1 and discussed in detail in 6.3.3 Sediment site and candidate background reference
Table 2, which also provides references to related ASTM area geochemistry should be as similar as possible. Determin-
documents and the scientific literature. ing the degree of similarity is complex and should be done by
6.2.1 Pragmatically, the candidate background reference experienced geochemists in support of background reference
area (or areas) should be as close to the sediment site as area selection.
TABLE 1 Example Sediment Background Reference Area Characteristics
Characteristic Category Characteristics
Location • Proximity to sediment site (distance between sediment site and geographic location)
• Geologic setting (compared to sediment site geology)
• Proximity to contaminated upland property (where the upland property is not
adjacent to the subject sediment site)
Sediment Properties • Hydrodynamics and sediment transport (sediment movement and stratification)
• Sediment source material (PCOC concentrations)
• Naturally occurring modifying features (such as sediment deposition rates)
• Geochemistry (PCOC concentrations)
Land Use and Other • Type of land use (degree of urbanization)
Anthropogenic Impacts • Permitted point sources (industrial outfalls, CSOs, stormwater sewer outfalls)
• Diffuse sources (stormwater runoff, atmospheric deposition)
• Anthropogenic modifying features (such as shoreline infrastructure)
E3344 − 23
TABLE 2 Background Reference Area Selection Characteristics – Location
References from ASTM
Characteristic Description Considerations Documents and the
Scientific Literature
• It is advantageous to have the candidate • Increases chances candidate background Section 6.2 of this guide
Proximity to background area be located in close proximity reference areas will have similar geology
sediment site to the sediment site, in the same watershed. and other ambient conditions to the
sediment site.
• The underlying geology of an area, to a large • Sediment particle size and chemistry are Section 6.2 of this guide; E3242
degree (and depending on the climate), related to chemical transport and fate.
determines the physical and chemical makeup Ensuring similar geologic settings at the
of sediment particles. Different geological sediment site and candidate background
formations have different rock types (examples reference areas minimizes differences
include sandstone, basalt, and gneiss), which that may affect the natural component of
Geologic
contain different mineral assemblages and representative background chemical
setting
different elemental concentrations. concentrations.
• Physical and chemical weathering of these • Background reference areas with signifi-
rocks results in different dominant particle sizes cantly different geology from the sediment
(such as clay versus sand), as well as different site should be avoided.
geochemistry (such as trace metal concentra-
tions).
• Sediment adjacent to a contaminated upland • Sediment contaminated by an upland Section 6.2 of this guide; (7)
site that is not associated with the subject sedi- property that is not adjacent to the subject
ment site may have elevated concentrations of sediment site may not be suitable for use
Proximity to
some PCOCs associated with that upland site. as a background reference area. Concen-
contaminated
trations of some PCOCs in the candidate
upland site
background reference area may be el-
evated relative to representative back-
ground values.
6.3.3.1 For example, sediment at the site and candidate 6.4.3 In general, direct discharges are associated with in-
background reference areas might have similar total organic dustrial facilities or municipally owned systems discharging
carbon concentrations. However, if the organic carbon at the
wastewater or stormwater to waterbodies via discharge points
sediment site is primarily composed of soot carbon from fuel
such as industrial outfalls, stormwater outfalls (industrial and
combustion, while the organic carbon at the candidate back-
municipal), and CSOs connected to conveyance systems.
ground reference area is primarily composed of labile organic
Chemical loading from stormwater and wastewater discharges
material from CSOs, then the chemical differences between the
are typically regulated by regulatory programs (such as the
two organic carbon types might be significant enough that this
Clean Water Act in the United States) that may set limits for
would weigh against the selection of this candidate background
chemical concentrations (or chemical loadings) from these
reference area as a background reference area.
conveyance systems but will not completely eliminate chemi-
6.3.3.2 Guide E3242 provides a detailed discussion of
cals from within the discharge. Additionally, the regulatory
geochemical processes relevant to background data evaluation,
programs associated with waterbody discharges may not mea-
including association of elements with minerals, sorption of
sure or exercise authority over contaminants associated with
elements on mineral surfaces, and water–mineral interactions.
contaminated sediment sites (such as PCBs).
Element concentrations in sediments are typically controlled
6.4.4 Urban runoff is a non-point source that is a significant
by adsorption/desorption (“sorption”), as well as dissolution/
contributor of contamination to sediments. In addition to
precipitation reactions and other processes.
contaminants washed off impervious surfaces during precipi-
6.4 Land Use and Anthropogenic Impact—Specific example
tation events that make their way to the water body, urban
characteristics related to this category are listed in Table 1 and
runoff also contains contaminants from different air/dust depo-
discussed in detail in Table 4, which also provides references to
sition sources including global emissions, regional
related ASTM documents and the scientific literature.
contributions, and local contributions. Urban runoff contains
6.4.1 Historical and current upland property land use in the
those contaminants most commonly found at sediment sites
vicinity of the sediment site contributes to sediment PCOC
(PCBs, PAHs, and metals), as detailed in Table 4.
concentrations, so it is important to understand and articulate
6.4.5 Anthropogenic modifying features (such as bulkheads
these features in the CSM to help guide the selection of
and dredged navigation channels) may change the
appropriate background reference areas.
geomorphology, sediment source material, and sediment trans-
6.4.2 Sediment sites are often affected by legacy contribu-
port dynamics. Generally, if the type and level of anthropo-
tions and point-source releases within the watershed. Sediment
genic modifying features of the candidate background refer-
sites are often located within urban areas, with multiple
potential sources of additional ongoing contaminant inputs ence area are similar to the sediment site, then this is favorable
for the selection of that candidate background reference area as
from point and non-point sources that are unrelated to the
sediment site. a reference area.
E3344 − 23
TABLE 3 Background Reference Area Selection Characteristics – Sediment Properties
References from ASTM
Characteristic Description Considerations Documents and the
Scientific Literature
• Sediment suspension and settling are a function of the • Similar hydrodynamic features at background Section 6.3 of this guide;
physical configuration of the waterbody, hydrodynamics, reference areas indicates that there may be E3163
and particle size. Shoreline configuration, current velocity some consistency with the sediment particle
and direction, water depth, and sediment surface distribution at the sediment site.
geomorphology all influence sediment transport.
• In general, coarse-grained sediments are deposited in rela- • Sediment transport informs an understanding
tively high-energy environments (such as beaches and river of how background concentrations are dis-
Hydrodynamics
channels), whereas fine-grained sediments deposit in lower tributed by depth.
and sediment
energy areas (such as offshore, lakes, and more quiescent
transport
areas of rivers and streams).
• Changes in the hydrodynamic environment and sediment • Fine-grained sediments, which typically have
sources can result in distinct sediment stratification. a greater sorption capacity than coarse-
Change in land use over time, such as increasing grained sediments, will be enriched in more
urbanization, may produce distinct sediment layers with dif- quiescent sediment environments.
ferent compositions, particle size distributions, and PCOC
concentrations.
• Erosion of upland soil is a sediment source to the water • Upland soils with similar composition for the Section 6.3 of this guide; (8)
Sediment body. Erosion can be enhanced by land disturbance and sediment site and candidate background ref-
source increase solids and PCOC loading to the water body. erence area indicate that the physical/
material chemical properties may be somewhat con-
sistent.
• The rates of sediment deposition, erosion and removal, and • Naturally occurring modifying features for the Section 6.3 of this guide
mixing can vary widely. During these processes, PCOCs sediment site and candidate background ref-
present in sediments may be redistributed by the physical erence areas that are as similar as possible
mixing of surface and deeper sediments. should be a consideration for selecting a
Naturally
• Sediment mixing may also occur through bioturbation, background reference area.
occurring
which is a function of benthic community structure.
modifying
• Natural changes to vegetation within a watershed may alter
features
the concentration and types of organic carbon in sediment
layers. These can influence the distribution of PCOCs at
the sediment site and within candidate background refer-
ence areas.
• Geochemical processes act on sediment to influence • Geochemical conditions of the candidate Section 6.3 of this guide;
chemical forms and can vary with environmental param- background reference areas should be as E3242
eters such as water depth and dissolved oxygen content. similar as possible to the sediment site when
Geochemistry • Fine-grained sediment minerals and organic carbon are selecting a background reference area. More
strongly associated with greater organic and inorganic than one background reference area may be
PCOC concentrations in most aquatic systems. needed to capture the range of geochemical
conditions at the sediment site.
6.4.5.1 Anthropogenic maritime activities can also affect 6.5.1 CSMs guiding biological reference area selection for
sediment conditions; propeller wash and other events that
ecological risk assessments typically address the relationships
disturb the sediment surface will redistribute the sediment and
of the performance of biological endpoints versus physical
the associated PCOCs.
(such as sediment grain size and water depth), water quality
6.4.6 For sediment sites in urban areas with multiple,
(such as hardness), and sediment conditions (such as organic
temporally variable anthropogenic inputs like CSOs, industrial
carbon type and concentrations).
discharges, stormwater discharges, and surface runoff, samples
6.5.2 For human health risk assessment, biological refer-
from several background reference areas located across the
ence area fish and shellfish tissue samples are important for
region may be useful to help differentiate between sediment
establishing consumption advisories, calculating incremental
site and representative background conditions.
risk from ingestion, and deriving future tissue target concen-
6.5 Purpose of Biological Reference Areas—Physical char-
trations.
acteristics not only impact the transport and fate of anthropo-
6.5.3 There is an extensive set of literature concerning
genic contamination, but also control the characteristics of the
selection of biological reference areas for Superfund Ecologi-
aquatic biota present at the sediment site. This is important for
cal Risk Assessments, focusing on the selection of ecologically
putting the selection of suitable background reference areas
similar areas unaffected by the Superfund site releases (10, 11).
into the context of the ecological and human health risk
The biological reference area does not need to be entirely
assessment, as well as establishing baseline conditions and
unimpacted; in some cases, it may be the least contaminated
goals for post-remedy monitoring of corrective actions (refer to
area of the sediment site (11).
Guide E3164).
E3344 − 23
TABLE 4 Background Reference Area Selection Characteristics – Land Use and Other Anthropogenic Impacts
References from ASTM
Characteristic Description Considerations Documents and the
Scientific Literature
• The type and intensity of upland property land use, • The type and intensity of upland property land use Section 6.4 of this
and land cover patterns adjacent to a sediment site adjacent to a candidate background reference area guide; E3242; (9)
(and candidate background reference areas) should be as similar as possible to those of the
correlate to increased sediment contaminant sediment site, to account for chemical inputs that
concentrations; this is referred to as the “degree of are associated with the degree of urbanization.
urbanization.” Historical and current upland This will ensure that anthropogenic background
property land use within a watershed have a major concentrations approximate the level of
influence on the contaminant concentrations in contamination in the environment typically
anthropogenic background at both the candidate associated with land use adjacent to the sediment
Upland property background reference areas and the sediment site. site.
land use • Land use can be evaluated using Geographic Infor-
mation System (GIS) layers of geographical fea-
tures (for example, topography, forests, farms,
cities, watersheds) and other information (for
example, historical photographs, and maps).
• Current off-site sources of contamination can con-
tribute similar contaminants to the watershed as
legacy contributions, making it difficult to discern
sediment site-related releases and inputs from
background sources.
• Direct discharges of permitted wastewater and • The type, number, and contaminant loading of per- Section 6.4 of this guide
stormwater are PCOC sources that can be major mitted discharges affecting sediment in the vicinity
contributors to background, even after sediment of the sediment site and candidate background ref-
Permitted site remediation. erence area should be as comparable as possible.
point sources • If the permitted sources in the sediment site vicinity
are numerous and substantial, more than one
background reference area may be needed to cap-
ture the different types of direct discharges.
• Urban runoff contains contaminants that are associ- • Chemical inputs from runoff to a sediment site and Section 6.4 of this guide
ated with impervious surfaces (such as paved sur- its background reference area should be as similar
faces and building roofs). as possible, including recognizing similar inputs
such as urban stormwater.
• Agricultural runoff contains PCOCs related to farm- • In the absence of an obvious local or regional point
Non-point ing activities. source that contributes sediment contamination to
stormwater • Atmospheric deposition (direct, or from urban run- the sediment site via atmo
...
This document is not an ASTM standard and is intended only to provide the user of an ASTM standard an indication of what changes have been made to the previous version. Because
it may not be technically possible to adequately depict all changes accurately, ASTM recommends that users consult prior editions as appropriate. In all cases only the current version
of the standard as published by ASTM is to be considered the official document.
Designation: E3344 − 22 E3344 − 23
Standard Guide for
Selection of Background Reference Areas for Determination
of Representative Sediment Background
ConcentrationsDeveloping Representative Sediment
Background Concentrations at Sediment Sites—Selection of
Background Reference Areas
This standard is issued under the fixed designation E3344; the number immediately following the designation indicates the year of
original adoption or, in the case of revision, the year of last revision. A number in parentheses indicates the year of last reapproval. A
superscript epsilon (´) indicates an editorial change since the last revision or reapproval.
1. Scope
1.1 This guide focuses on the selection of sediment background reference areas from aquatic environments for the purpose of
determiningdeveloping representative sediment background concentrations. These concentrations are typically used in contami-
nated sediment corrective actions performed under various regulatory programs, including the Comprehensive Environmental
Response, Compensation, and Liability Act (CERCLA). Although many of the references cited in this guide are CERCLA oriented,
CERCLA-oriented, the guide is applicable to remedial actions performed under local, state, tribal, federal, and international
cleanup programs. However, this guide does not describe the requirements for each jurisdiction.
1.1.1 The sediment background reference areas chosen using this guide will need to be approved by the regulatory agency having
jurisdiction (or they should take no exception to the areas chosen), especially if the representative background sediment
concentrations will potentially be used to develop sediment remedial criteria.
1.2 This guide provides a framework to select appropriate sediment background reference areas for the collection of sediment data
in the determinationdevelopment of representative sediment background concentrations. It is intended to inform, complement, and
support, but not supersede, local, state, tribal, federal, or international guidelines.
1.2.1 This guide is designed to apply to contaminated sediment sites where sediment data have been collected and are readily
available. Additionally, it assumes that risk assessments have been performed, so that the potential contaminants of concern
(PCOCs) that exceed risk-based thresholds have been identified. This guide can be applied at multiple points within the project
life cycle (such as site assessment and remedial design).
1.2.2 Furthermore, this guide presumes that the identified risk-based thresholds are low enough to pose corrective action
implementation challenges or that the sediment site is subject to recontamination from ongoing anthropogenic or natural sources
(or both) that are not controlled. In either case, representative sediment background concentrations are useful for determining the
extent of corrective remedial actions (when used as remedial goals), evaluating risks posed by representative background
concentrations, and establishing appropriate post-remedial monitoring plans.
1.2.3 A case study for selecting a background reference area using a tiered decision analysis approach is presented in Appendix
This guide is under the jurisdiction of ASTM Committee E50 on Environmental Assessment, Risk Management and Corrective Action and is the direct responsibility
of Subcommittee E50.04 on Corrective Action.
Current edition approved Aug. 1, 2022Sept. 1, 2023. Published September 2022November 2023. Originally approved in 2022. Last previous edition approved in 2022 as
E3344–22. DOI: 10.1520/E3344–2210.1520/E3344–23
Copyright © ASTM International, 100 Barr Harbor Drive, PO Box C700, West Conshohocken, PA 19428-2959. United States
E3344 − 23
X1. It compares various characteristics of a hypothetical sediment site associated with a former upland manufactured gas plant
(MGP) facility to three candidate background reference areas and identifies the background reference area that best satisfies the
decision analysis objectives.
1.3 Methodologies used to determinedevelop representative background concentrations at contaminated sediment sites are not
discussed in this guide—refer to Guide E3242 for a discussion of these methodologies.
1.4 Related ASTM Standards—This guide is related to Guide E3382, which provides the overarching framework for the
development of representative background concentrations at contaminated sediment sites, including Conceptual Site Model (CSM)
considerations. This guide is also related to Guide E3242, which provides a detailed framework for determination of developing
representative sediment background concentrations, including statistical and geochemical considerations. considerations as well as
background threshold values. This guide is also related to Guide E3164, which addresses corrective action monitoring before,
during, and after sediment remediation activities, as well as Guide E3163, which concerns sediment sampling and analytical
techniques used during sediment corrective action projects. Guide D4823, which concerns sediment core sampling, is also related
to this guide.
1.4.1 Specifically, this guide is intended to be used under the overarching framework of Guide E3382, in conjunction with the
detailed framework to calculatedevelop representative background values outlined in Guide E3242, to help ensure appropriate
background reference areas are chosen for use in representative background concentration calculations.development.
1.5 Units—The values stated in SI units are to be regarded as the standard. No other units of measurement are included in this
guide.
1.6 This standard does not purport to address all of the safety concerns, if any, associated with its use. It is the responsibility
of the user of this standard to establish appropriate safety, health, and environmental practices and determine the applicability of
regulatory limitations prior to use.
1.7 This international standard was developed in accordance with internationally recognized principles on standardization
established in the Decision on Principles for the Development of International Standards, Guides and Recommendations issued
by the World Trade Organization Technical Barriers to Trade (TBT) Committee.
2. Referenced Documents
2.1 ASTM Standards:
D4823 Guide for Core Sampling Submerged, Unconsolidated Sediments
E178 Practice for Dealing With Outlying Observations
E1689 Guide for Developing Conceptual Site Models for Contaminated Sites
E3163 Guide for Selection and Application of Analytical Methods and Procedures Used during Sediment Corrective Action
E3164 Guide for Contaminated Sediment Site Risk-Based Corrective Action – Baseline, Remedy Implementation and
Post-Remedy Monitoring Programs
E3240 Guide for Risk-Based Corrective Action for Contaminated Sediment Sites
E3242 Guide for Determination of Representative Sediment Background Concentrations
E3382 Guide for Developing Representative Background Concentrations at Sediment Sites — Framework Overview, Including
Conceptual Site Model Considerations
3. Terminology
3.1 Definitions:
3.1.1 background conditions (aka reference conditions), (aka “reference”), n—adj—a term applied to substances, conditions, or
locations that are similar to those found at a sediment site but not influenced by releases from a site; are usually current or historical
releases or activities from the sediment site; these are usually a combination of naturally occurring (consistently present in the
environment,environment but not influenced by human activity) orand anthropogenic (influenced by human activity,activity but not
related to specific current or historical releases or activities at the site).sediment site) components. E3164E3382
3.1.2 background reference areas, n—sediment areas that have similar physical, chemical, geological, biological, and land-use
characteristics as the site being investigated, but are not affected by site-related releases and/or activities. E3242
For referenced ASTM standards, visit the ASTM website, www.astm.org, or contact ASTM Customer Service at service@astm.org. For Annual Book of ASTM Standards
volume information, refer to the standard’s Document Summary page on the ASTM website.
E3344 − 23
3.1.3 candidate background data set, n—a raw (that is, unprocessed) background data set obtained either by the collection of data
from a background reference area(s), or by the extraction of background data from the sediment site date set, or a combination of
both. E3382
3.1.3.1 Discussion—
The candidate background data set must first be evaluated using the steps described in Guide E3242 and Section 5 to obtain a
representative background data set, which can then be used to develop representative background concentrations for the sediment
site.
3.1.4 cleanup level, n—the prescribed average or point sediment concentration of a chemical that shall not be exceeded at the
remediated site. E3242
3.1.5 contaminant of concern (COC), n—substances identified as posing a risk based on a tiered risk assessment and that may
warrant corrective action. E3382
3.1.5.1 Discussion—
Typically, all PCOCs identified for a sediment site are evaluated in the risk assessment process. PCOCs that have sediment
concentrations greater than risk-based thresholds identified in the risk assessment process are defined as COCs. Thus, the COCs
identified for a sediment site are a subset of the PCOCs identified for that site.
3.1.6 conceptual site model (CSM), n—the integrated representation of the physical and environmental context, the complete and
potentially complete exposure pathways and the potential fate and transport of potential contaminants of concern at a site. E3242
3.1.6.1 Discussion—
The CSM should include both the current understanding of the site and an understanding of the potential future conditions and uses
for the site. It provides a method to conduct the exposure pathway evaluation, inventory the exposure pathways evaluated, and
determine the status of the exposure pathways as incomplete, potentially complete, or complete.
3.1.7 population, n—in statistics, a comprehensive set of values consisting of all possible observations or measurements of a
certain phenomenon from which a sample is to be drawn. E3242
3.1.8 potential contaminant of concern (PCOC), n—a contaminant whose sediment concentrations at the site may exceed
applicable screening levels; this includes chemicals of potential environmental concern (COPECs) and chemicals of potential
concern (COPCs). E3242
3.1.9 representative background data set, n—a background data set obtained by evaluating candidate background data using the
steps described in Guide E3242. E3382
3.1.9.1 Discussion—
The evaluation determines if there are any data points in the candidate background data set that are not representative of sediment
site background conditions. These data points are then removed from the candidate background data set (using technically
justifiable rationale) to obtain a representative background data set, which is then used to develop representative background
concentrations for the sediment site using methodologies described in Guide E3242.
3.1.10 representative background concentrations, n—a chemical concentration that is inclusive of naturally occurring sources and
anthropogenic sources similar to those present at a site, but not related to site releases and site-related activities. E3164
3.1.11 sediment(s), n—a matrix of porewater and particles including gravel, sand, silt, clay, and other natural and anthropogenic
substances that have settled at the bottom of a tidal or non-tidal body of water. E3163
3.1.12 sediment site, n—the area(s) defined by the likely physical distribution of COC(s) from a source area and the adjacent areas
required to implement the corrective action. A site could be an entire water body or a defined portion of a water body. E3240
3.1.13 trace element, n—an element defined as generally being present at less than 0.1 weight percent in the sediment sample; its
natural concentrations are typically one or more orders of magnitude lower than those of the reference elements. E3242
3.2 Definitions of Terms Specific to This Standard:
E3344 − 23
3.2.1 anthropogenic background, n—for the purposes of this guide, human-made substances present in the environment due to
human activities, not specifically related to current or historical site-related releases or activities (1).
3.2.1.1 Discussion—
The definition of “anthropogenic background” varies with jurisdiction. In some jurisdictions, the regulator defines anthropogenic
background as having both human-made and naturally occurring substances. In this guide, the definition of anthropogenic
background includes only the human-made substances.
3.2.2 biological reference areas, n—for the purposes of this guide, a location that is representative of background conditions
resulting from localized and regional pollutant inputs but is not affected by site-related releases or activities, which is used to
collect biological samples (such as fish and shellfish tissue, benthic community organisms) and sediment for laboratory bioassay
testing (such as toxicity or bioaccumulation testing).
3.2.2.1 Discussion—
A biological reference area can also serve as a background reference area, if sediment samples are also submitted for chemical
analysis of PCOCs.
3.2.3 natural background, n—for the purposes of this guide, naturally occurring substances present in the environment in forms
(and at concentrations) that have not been influenced by human activity (1).
3.2.4 urban runoff, n—for the purposes of this guide, a non-point source of contaminants to the water body.
3.2.4.1 Discussion—
Typically, this is stormwater from city streets and adjacent properties that carries contaminants into receiving waters directly, or
indirectly via sewer systems (2).
4. Significance and Use
4.1 Intended Use—This guide may be used by various parties involved in sediment corrective action programs, including
regulatory agencies, project sponsors, environmental consultants, toxicologists, risk assessors, site remediation professionals,
environmental contractors, and other stakeholders.
4.2 Importance of the CSM—The CSM should be continuously updated and refined to describe the physical properties, chemical
composition and occurrence, biologic features, and environmental conditions of the sediment corrective action project (Guide
E1689).
4.3 Reference Material—This guide should be used in conjunction with other ASTM guides listed in 2.1 (especially GuideGuides
E3242 and E3382); this guide should also be used in conjunction with the material in the References at the end of this guide
(including 3). Utilizing these reference materials will direct the user in derivingdeveloping representative sediment background
concentrations.
4.4 Flexible Site-Specific Implementation—This guide provides a systematic but flexible framework to accommodate variations in
approaches by regulatory agencies and by the user based on project objectives, site complexity, unique site features, regulatory
requirements, newly developed guidance, newly published scientific research, changes in regulatory criteria, advances in scientific
knowledge and technical capability, and unforeseen circumstances.
4.5 Regulatory Frameworks—This guide is intended to be applicable at a broad range of local, state, tribal, federal (such as
CERCLA), or international jurisdictions, each with its own unique regulatory framework. As such, this guide does not provide a
detailed discussion of the requirements or guidance associated with any of these regulatory frameworks, nor is it intended to
supplant applicable regulations and guidance. The user of this guide will need to be aware of the regulatory requirements and
guidance in the jurisdiction where the work is being performed.
4.6 Systematic Project Planning and Scoping Process—When applying this guide, the user should undertake a systematic project
planning and scoping process to collect information to assist in making site-specific, user-defined decisions for a particular project,
including assembling an experienced team of project professionals (that is, experienced practitioners familiar with current sediment
The boldface numbers in parentheses refer to the list of references at the end of this standard.
E3344 − 23
site characterization and remediation techniques, as well as geochemistry and statistics). These practitioners should have the
appropriate expertise to scope, plan, and execute a sediment data acquisition and analysis program. This team may include, but
is not limited to, project sponsors, environmental consultants, toxicologists, site remediation professionals, analytical chemists,
geochemists, and statisticians.
4.6.1 Depending on the regulatory requirements in a jurisdiction, the choice of background reference areas may need to consider
critical habitats and ecological receptors.
4.6.2 In this guide, sediment (3.1.83.1.11) is defined as material being found at the bottom of a water body. Upland soils of
sedimentary origin are excluded from consideration as sediment in this guide.
4.7 Other Considerations—This guide does not cover all components of a program to derivedevelop representative sediment
background concentrations.
4.7.1 Sediment sampling and laboratory analyses are not covered in this guide. GuideGuides E3163 containsand E3164 contain
extensive information concerning sediment sampling and laboratory analyses.
4.7.2 Data quality objectives are not covered in this guide. Data quality objectives are described in (4).
4.7.3 Background study design considerations are not covered in this guide but are described in other references, including Guides
E3163 and E3164, as well as (5).
4.7.4 Data extraction The use of data evaluation methodologies to obtain representative background concentrations from sediment
site data sets are not covered here, but are explained in Guidedata sets from candidate background data sets is not covered in detail
E3242. Identification and removal of outliers from data sets are discussed in detail in this guide but is discussed in more depth in
Guide E178, as well as Guide E3242. Other statistical and geochemical methods used in deriving representative background
concentrations are also discussed in Guide E3242.
4.7.4.1 Identification and removal of high nondetect values from candidate background data sets are discussed in detail in Guide
E3242.
4.7.4.2 Identification and removal of outliers from candidate background data sets are discussed in detail in Practice E178, as well
as Guide E3242.
4.7.4.3 Geochemical methodologies used in evaluating candidate background data sets to obtain representative background data
sets are discussed in detail in Guide E3242; their applications during background reference area selection are discussed in this
guide.
4.7.4.4 Chemical forensics methodologies used in evaluating candidate background data sets to obtain representative background
data sets are discussed in detail in Guide E3242; their applications during background reference area selection are discussed in this
guide.
4.7.5 The use of statistical methods to develop BTVs from representative background data sets and to compare such data sets (or
the developed BTVs) to the sediment site data sets are discussed in detail in Guide E3242.
4.7.6 Geospatial analysis considerations are not thoroughly discussed in this guidance but are discussed in more depth relative to
environmental evaluations in (6), which focuses on quality assurance concerns relative to geospatial analyses.
4.7.7 In this guide, only the concentrations of PCOCs are considered to be in scope. Residual background radioactivity is
considered to be out of scope for this guide.out of scope.
4.8 Structure and Components of this Guide—The user of this guide should review the overall structure and components of this
guide before proceeding with use, including:
E3344 − 23
Section 1 Scope
Section 2 Referenced Documents
Section 3 Terminology
Section 4 Significance and Use
Section 5 Overview of Representative Background Concentrations and Calculation Process
Section 6 Background Reference Area Selection Criteria
Section 7 Keywords
Appendix X1 Case Study
References
5. Overview of Representative Background Concentrations and Calculation Process
5.1 Importance of Representative Background Concentrations:
5.1.1 Multiple sources may contribute to the nature and extent of contamination at many sediment sites. The largest contribution
of contamination at sediment sites is typically attributed to current or historical site releases or activities. However, contamination
can also result from natural and ongoing anthropogenic sources not related to site releases or activities. Discharges from combined
sewer overflows (CSOs), industrial outfalls, and storm sewer systems (municipal and private), as well as surface runoff, are
examples of ongoing anthropogenic sources that may be unrelated to site releases or activities.
5.1.2 Off-site contamination not associated with site releases or activities is considered a component of representative background
concentrations and will continue to be a source of contamination to the sediment site, unless all transport pathways onto the
sediment site are eliminated. A primary objective of determining representative background concentrations is to account for any
background chemical input (both natural and anthropogenic) that is expected to continue migrating onto the sediment site after the
completion of corrective actions. It is recognized that one of the important principles for management of contaminated sediment
sites is the control of background sources of contamination, to the greatest extent practicable, prior to the initiation of corrective
actions at the sediment site. However, it is rarely practicable to control all background sources.
5.1.3 Technically defensible representative background concentrations are those that reflect chemical inputs to a sediment site
from ongoing natural and ongoing anthropogenic sources unrelated to site releases or activities. In addition to informing or
establishing technically defensible cleanup levels, representative background concentrations can assist in determining sediment site
boundaries, understanding risks at a sediment site due to background concentrations, establishing and optimizing realistic
long-termpost-remedy monitoring plans, and assessing the performanceeffectiveness of corrective actions (Guide(Guides E3164
and E3242).
5.1.4 In the absence of technically defensible representative background concentrations, risk-based cleanup levels may be used
inappropriately at sediment sites where representative background concentrations are actually greater than the risk-based cleanup
levels. Similarly, if the representative background concentrations have been erroneously calculated, inappropriately low cleanup
goals could be used in the corrective action evaluation process. Under both circumstances, sediment sites will eventually return
to representative background concentrations after corrective actions are completed and cleanup goals will again be exceeded. Due
to exceedances of the inappropriately low cleanup goals, the corrective actions would be perceived as failures.a failure.
5.1.5 Attempting to implement corrective actions to achieve concentrations less than representative background is not sustainable
over the long-term and can require considerable expenditures that serve no environmental or public health purpose. purpose (Guide
E3382). The process described in Guide E3242E3382 is intended to help promote a scientifically sound approach for establishing
representative background concentrations, leading to corrective action decisions that avoid costly perceived corrective action
failures at sediment sites. The subject of this guide, the selection of suitable background reference areas, is a critical component
of the process outlined in Guide E3242E3382.
5.2 Overview of Process to CalculateDevelop Representative Background Concentrations in Sediment:
5.2.1 Application of background guidance for soil and groundwater at upland sites may not be appropriate at sediment sites.
Sediment sites have many different characteristics that are not present at upland sites (Guide E3242), including physical
characteristics, geochemical characteristics, biological characteristics, and different contaminant emplacement and transport
mechanisms.
5.2.2 This guide and its associated guides (Guides E3163, E3164, E3240, E3242, and E3382) have been developed (in part) to
fill a gap due to the absence of existing guidance from various regulatory agencies for the development of representative
background concentrations for contaminated sediment sites.
E3344 − 23
5.2.3 Fig. 1 presents the overall framework to calculatedevelop representative background concentrations at a sediment site; this
process is presented in detail in Guide E3242E3382. As a first step, a thorough understanding of the sediment site is necessary
before calculatingdeveloping representative background concentrations. This can be accomplished by developing a CSM (refer to
GuideGuides E3164E3240 and E3382). As part of this CSM, the sediment site PCOCs must be identified.
5.2.4 Once the preliminary sediment site CSM has been developed, a suitable background reference area (or areas) can be
identified for sampling (that is, the second step in Fig. 1); this second step is the focus of this guide.
5.2.5 Once analytical data are available for the background reference area sediment samples, the methodologies described in detail
in Guide E3242 can be utilized to calculatedevelop representative background concentrations for the PCOCs.COCs.
6. Background Reference Area Selection Criteria
6.1 Selection Rationale—Sediment sites are dynamic in nature; they are constantly receiving suspended sediment from off-site
FIG. 1 Process to DetermineDevelop Representative Sediment Background Concentrations (Modified from Guide E3242E3382)
E3344 − 23
sources. The background reference area (or areas) used to calculate representative sediment background concentrations should
have physical, geological, anthropogenic (land-use), chemical, and biological characteristics that are as similar as possible to the
sediment site. Importantly, the background reference areas should not be influenced by current or historical site-related activities
and releases, but they should include ongoing sources that contribute to regional contamination, including ongoing sources at the
sediment site. Typically, any selected background reference area should not have been designated as a contaminated sediment site
(that is, contaminated from its own current or historical site-related activities and releases) by a regulatory agency.
6.1.1 When there are multiple characteristics to consider, categorizing and ranking important characteristics can aid in background
reference area selection decisions. Examples of the characteristics where the similarity between sediment site and the candidate
background reference areas could be evaluated are summarized in Table 1; these are grouped into three categories in the table and
the characteristics in each category are discussed in more detail in the following sub-sections. The characteristics used in the
evaluation process will depend on site-specific project goals; they could include all of these example characteristics, some of these
example characteristics, or characteristics not listed in Table 1.
6.2 Location—Specific example characteristics related to this category are listed in Table 1 and discussed in detail in Table 2,
which also provides references to related ASTM documents and the scientific literature.
6.2.1 Pragmatically, the candidate background reference area (or areas) should be as close to the sediment site as possible, without
being affected by any site-related impacts. Background reference areas farther away from the sediment site may have a different
set of ambient conditions compared to conditions nearby (or adjacent to) the sediment site.
6.2.2 In addition to off-site background reference areas, it may be helpful to include background samples from unimpacted areas
of the sediment site, if available. This methodology is known as “background extraction” and is discussed in detail in Guide E3242.
6.2.3 Notably, selection of a background reference area can be complicated because sediment background concentrations often
represent mixtures of naturally occurring and anthropogenic influences. In some cases, these mixtures yield geographically distinct
background populations, such that the background reference area has sub-areas with varying degrees of anthropogenic influences.
Under such situations, the portion of the targeted background reference area (or sub-areas) most analogous to the sediment site
must be selected as the background reference area. Any other choice would result in unrepresentative background data sets.
6.3 Sediment Properties—Specific example characteristics related to this category are listed in Table 1 and discussed in detail in
Table 3, which also provides references to related ASTM documents and the scientific literature.
6.3.1 Sediment properties strongly influence the distribution of naturally occurring and anthropogenic background chemicals in
the environment; these properties are described in detail in GuideTable 3E3164. Sediment properties have a direct influence on the
fate and transport of chemicals, so properties in the background reference area should be as similar as possible to those at the
sediment site.
6.3.2 The sediment properties in Table 3 can be used to inform background reference area selection decisions. It is important to
TABLE 1 Example Sediment Background Reference Area Characteristics
Characteristic Category Characteristics
Location • Proximity to sediment site (distance from sediment site and geographic location)
• Geologic setting (compared to sediment site geology)
• Proximity to contaminated upland property (where the upland property is not
adjacent to the subject sediment site)
Location • Proximity to sediment site (distance between sediment site and geographic location)
• Geologic setting (compared to sediment site geology)
• Proximity to contaminated upland property (where the upland property is not
adjacent to the subject sediment site)
Sediment Properties • Hydrodynamics and sediment transport (sediment movement and stratification)
• Sediment source material (PCOC concentrations)
• Naturally occurring modifying features (such as sediment deposition rates)
• Geochemistry (PCOC concentrations)
Land Use and Other • Type of land use (degree of urbanization)
Anthropogenic Impacts • Permitted point sources (industrial outfalls, CSOs, stormwater sewer outfalls)
• Diffuse sources (stormwater runoff, atmospheric deposition)
• Anthropogenic modifying features (such as shoreline infrastructure)
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TABLE 2 Background Reference Area Selection Characteristics – Location
References from Other ASTM
Characteristic Description Considerations Documents and the
Scientific Literature
• It is advantageous to have the candidate • Increases chances candidate background E3164 X2.2.5 and X2.2.6
Proximity to background area be located in close proximity reference areas will have similar geology
sediment site to the sediment site, in the same watershed. and other ambient conditions to the
sediment site.
• It is advantageous to have the candidate back- • Increases chances candidate background Section 6.2 of this guide
Proximity to ground area be located in close proximity to reference areas will have similar geology
sediment site the sediment site, in the same watershed. and other ambient conditions to the sedi-
ment site.
recognize that site-specific differences related to sediment properties such as hydrodynamics, sediment transport, naturally
occurring modifying features, and sediment geochemistry are inherently spatially and temporally variable.
6.3.3 Sediment site and candidate background reference area geochemistry should be as similar as possible. Determining the
degree of similarity is complex and should be done by experienced geochemists in support of background reference area selection.
6.3.3.1 For example, sediment at the site and candidate background reference areas might have similar total organic carbon
concentrations. However, if the organic carbon at the sediment site is primarily composed of soot carbon from fuel combustion,
while the organic carbon at the candidate background reference area is primarily composed of labile organic material from CSOs,
then the geochemicalchemical differences between the two organic carbon types might be significant enough that this would weigh
against the selection of this candidate background reference area as a background reference area.
6.3.3.2 Guide E3242 provides a detailed discussion of geochemical processes relevant to background data evaluation, including
association of elements with minerals, sorption of elements on mineral surfaces, and water–mineral interactions. Element
concentrations in sediments are typically controlled by adsorption/desorption (“sorption”), as well as dissolution/precipitation
reactions and other processes.
6.4 Land Use and Anthropogenic Impact—Specific example characteristics related to this category are listed in Table 1 and
discussed in detail in Table 4, which also provides references to related ASTM documents and the scientific literature.
6.4.1 Historical and current upland property land use in the vicinity of the sediment site contributes to sediment PCOC
concentrations, so it is important to understand and articulate these features in the CSM to help guide the selection of appropriate
background reference areas.
6.4.2 Sediment sites are often affected by legacy contributions and point-source releases within the watershed. These sediment
Sediment sites are often located within urban areas, with multiple potential sources of additional ongoing contaminant inputs from
point and non-point sources that are unrelated to the sediment site.
6.4.3 In general, direct discharges are associated with industrial facilities or municipally owned systems discharging wastewater
or stormwater to waterbodies via discharge points such as industrial outfalls, stormwater outfalls, and outfalls (industrial and
municipal), and CSOs connected to conveyance systems. Chemical loading from stormwater and wastewater discharges are
typically regulated by regulatory programs (such as the Clean Water Act) Act in the United States) that may set limits for chemical
concentrations (or chemical loadings) from these conveyance systems but will not completely eliminate chemicals from within the
discharge. Additionally, the regulatory programs associated with waterbody discharges may not measure or exercise authority over
contaminants associated with contaminated sediment sites (such as PCBs).
6.4.4 Urban runoff is a non-point source that is a significant contributor of contamination to sediments. In addition to contaminants
washed off impervious surfaces during precipitation events that make their way to the water body, urban runoff also contains
contaminants from different air/dust deposition sources including global emissions, regional contributions, and local contributions.
Urban runoff contains those contaminants most commonly found at sediment sites (PCBs, PAHs, and metals), as detailed in Table
4Guide .E3164 Appendix X2.
6.4.5 Anthropogenic modifying features (such as bulkheads and dredged navigation channels) may change the geomorphology,
sediment source material, and sediment transport dynamics. Generally, if the type and level of anthropogenic modifying features
of the candidate background reference area are similar to the sediment site, then this is favorable for the selection of that candidate
background reference area as a reference area.
E3344 − 23
References from Other ASTM
Characteristic Description Considerations Documents and the
Scientific Literature
• The underlying geology of an area, to a large • Sediment particle size and chemistry are E3242 7.3.1 and E3163
degree (and depending on the climate), related to chemical transport and fate.
determines the physical and chemical makeup Ensuring similar geologic settings at the
of sediment particles. Different geological sediment site and candidate background
formations have different rock types (examples reference areas minimizes differences
include sandstone, basalt, and gneiss), which that may affect the natural component of
contain different mineral assemblages and representative background chemical
different elemental concentrations. concentrations.
• The• Sed- Section 6.2 of this
un- iment
der- par-
ly- ticle
ing size
ge- and
ol- chem-
ogy is-
of try
an are
area, re-
to lated
a to
large chem-
de- ical
gree trans-
(and port
de- and
pend- fate.
ing En-
on su-
the ring
climate), sim-
de- ilar
ter- geo-
mines logic
the set-
phys- tings
ical at
and the
chem- sed-
ical iment
makeup site
of and
sed- can-
iment di-
par- date
Geologic
ticles. back-
setting
Dif- ground
fer- ref-
ent er-
geo- ence
Geo- log- ar-
logic ical eas
set- for- min-
ting mations im-
have izes
dif- dif-
fer- fer-
ent en-
rock ces
types that
(ex- may
am- af-
ples fect
in- the
clude nat-
sandstone, ural
basalt, com-
and po-
gneiss), nent
which of
con- rep-
tain re-
dif- sen-
fer- tative
ent back-
min- ground
eral chem-
as- ical
sem- con-
blages cen-
and tra-
dif- tions.
fer-
E3344 − 23
References from Other ASTM
Characteristic Description Considerations Documents and the
Scientific Literature
• Sediment adjacent to a contaminated upland • Sediment contaminated by an upland E3164 X2.2.5
site that is not the subject sediment site may property that is not adjacent to the subject Geiselbrecht et al. (7)
have elevated concentrations of some PCOCs sediment site may not be suitable for use
Proximity to
associated with that upland site. as a background reference area.
contaminated
Concentrations of some PCOCs in the
upland site
candidate background reference area
may be elevated relative to representative
background values.
• Sediment adjacent to a contaminated upland • Sediment contaminated by an upland Section 6.2
site that is not associated with the subject sedi- property that is not adjacent to the subject of this guide; (7)
ment site may have elevated concentrations of sediment site may not be suitable for use
Proximity to
some PCOCs associated with that upland site. as a background reference area. Concen-
contaminated
trations of some PCOCs in the candidate
upland site
background reference area may be el-
evated relative to representative back-
ground values.
6.4.5.1 Anthropogenic maritime activities can also affect sediment conditions; propeller wash and other events that disturb the
sediment surface will redistribute the sediment and the associated PCOCs.
6.4.6 For sediment sites in urban areas with multiple, temporally variable anthropogenic inputs like CSOs, industrial discharges,
stormwater discharges, and surface runoff, samples from several background reference areas located across the region may be
useful to help differentiate between sediment site and representative background conditions.
6.5 Purpose of Biological Reference Areas—Physical characteristics not only impact the transport and fate of anthropogenic
contamination, but also control the characteristics of the aquatic biota present at the sediment site. This is important for putting
the selection of suitable background reference areas into the context of the ecological and human health risk assessment, as well
as establishing baseline conditions and goals for post-remedy monitoring of corrective actions (refer to Guide E3164).
6.5.1 CSMs guiding biological reference area selection for ecological risk assessments typically address the relationships of the
performance of biological endpoints versus physical (such as sediment grain size and water depth), water quality (such as
hardness), and sediment conditions (such as organic carbon type and concentrations).
6.5.2 For human health risk assessment, biological reference area fish and shellfish tissue samples are important for establishing
consumption advisories, calculating incremental risk from ingestion, and deriving future tissue target concentrations.
6.5.3 There is an extensive set of literature concerning selection of biological reference areas for Superfund Ecological Risk
Assessments, focusing on the selection of ecologically similar areas unaffected by the Superfund site releases (10, 11). The
biological reference area does not need to be entirely unimpacted; in some cases, it may be the least contaminated area of the
sediment site (11).
E3344 − 23
TABLE 3 Background Reference Area Selection Characteristics – Sediment Properties
References from Other
ASTM
Characteristic Description Considerations
Documents and the
Scientific Literature
• Sediment suspension and settling are a function of the • Similar hydrodynamic features at background E3164 X2.2.6.3 and X2.2.8
physical configuration of the waterbody, hydrodynamics, reference areas indicates that there may be
and particle size. Shoreline configuration, current velocity some consistency with the sediment particle
and direction, water depth, and sediment surface distribution at the sediment site.
geomorphology all influence sediment transport.
• Sed- • Sim- Section 6.3 of this
iment ilar
sus- hy-
pen- dro-
sion dy-
and namic
set- fea-
tling tures
are at
a back-
func- ground
tion ref-
of er-
the ence
phys- ar-
ical eas
con- in-
figu- di-
ra- cates
tion that
of there
the may
waterbody, be
hydrodynamics, some
and con-
par- sis-
ticle tency
size. with
Shore- the
line sed-
configuration, iment
cur- par-
rent ticle
ve- dis-
loc- tri-
ity bu-
and tion
direction, at
wa- the
ter sed-
depth, iment
and site.
sed-
iment
sur-
face
geo-
mor-
phol-
ogy
all
in-
flu-
Hydrodynamics
ence
and sediment
sed-
transport Hy-
iment
dro-
trans-
dy-
port.
nam-
• In • Sed-
ics
general, iment
and
coarse- trans-
sed-
grained port
iment
sed- in-
trans-
iments forms
port
are an
de- un-
pos- der-
ited stand-
in ing
rela- of
tively how
high- back-
en- ground
ergy con-
en- cen-
E3344 − 23
References from Other
ASTM
Characteristic Description Considerations
Documents and the
Scientific Literature
• Erosion of upland soil is a sediment source in the water • Upland soils with similar composition for the Rosgen (8),E3164 X2.2.8
Sediment
body. Erosion can be enhanced by land disturbance and sediment site and background reference area and E3163
source
increase solids and PCOC loading to the water body. indicate that the physical/chemical properties
material
may be somewhat consistent.
• Erosion of upland soil is a sediment source to the water • Upland soils with similar composition for the Section 6.3 of this guide; (8)
Sediment body. Erosion can be enhanced by land disturbance and sediment site and candidate background ref-
source increase solids and PCOC loading to the water body. erence area indicate that the physical/
material chemical properties may be somewhat con-
sistent.
6.5.4 Biological reference areas and background reference areas are not mutually exclusive; the same locations may be suitable
for addressing both biological and sediment chemistry data needs.
7. Keywords
7.1 background reference area; representative background concentrations; sediment
E3344 − 23
References from Other
ASTM
Characteristic Description Considerations
Documents and the
Scientific Literature
• The rates of sediment deposition, erosion and removal, and • Naturally occurring modifying features E3164 X2.2.5.2
mixing can vary widely. During these processes, PCOCs between the sediment site and candidate
present in sediments may
...
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