2011 Quality Assurance Report
Standards and Assessment Section
Division of Environmental Assessment and Restoration
Florida Department of Environmental Protection
April 23, 2012
2600 Blair Stone Road, MS 3000
Tallahassee, Florida 32399-2400
www.dep.state.fl.us
Florida Department of Environmental Protection, 2011 Quality Assurance Report
Table of Contents
I.
Introduction .......................................................................................................................... 4
II. Annual Report Summary ................................................................................................... 5
III. Regulatory Programs......................................................................................................... 10
Division of Environmental Assessment and Restoration ................................................. 10
Bureau of Assessment and Restoration Support............................................................ 10
Standards and Assessment Section .............................................................................. 10
Watershed Assessment Section ..................................................................................... 13
Watershed Monitoring Section ..................................................................................... 15
Bureau of Laboratories....................................................................................................... 18
Bureau of Watershed Restoration .................................................................................... 20
Ground Water Management Section............................................................................ 21
Watershed Data Services STORET ............................................................................... 22
Watershed Evaluation and TMDL Section .................................................................. 23
Division of Waste Management ........................................................................................... 24
Bureau of Petroleum Storage Systems ............................................................................. 25
Bureau of Solid and Hazardous Waste............................................................................ 25
Bureau of Waste Cleanup .................................................................................................. 26
Division of Water Resource Management .......................................................................... 27
Bureau of Mining and Minerals Regulation ................................................................... 27
Phosphate Management Program ................................................................................ 27
Bureau of Water Facilities Regulation ............................................................................. 27
Wastewater Compliance Evaluation Section .............................................................. 28
Underground Injection Control Program.................................................................... 29
Drinking Water Section .................................................................................................. 29
Florida Geological Survey ..................................................................................................... 29
Geological Investigations Section ................................................................................. 30
Applied Geoscience Services Section ........................................................................... 30
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Florida Department of Environmental Protection, 2011 Quality Assurance Report
IV. Land and Recreation Programs ....................................................................................... 31
Office of Coastal and Aquatic Managed Areas .................................................................. 32
Division of Recreation and Parks ......................................................................................... 34
Division of State Lands .......................................................................................................... 35
V. Water Policy and Ecosystem Restoration Programs.................................................... 38
Office of Ecosystem Projects ................................................................................................. 38
Program Coordination and Regulation Section ......................................................... 38
VI. Department District Offices ............................................................................................ 40
Central District........................................................................................................................ 40
Central District Potable Water Program ...................................................................... 40
Central District Groundwater Section ......................................................................... 41
Central District Wastewater Section Quality Assurance Program .......................... 42
Central District Watershed Management and Monitoring Program ...................... 43
Northeast District ................................................................................................................... 44
Northwest District .................................................................................................................. 45
South District .......................................................................................................................... 46
Southeast District.................................................................................................................... 47
Southwest District .................................................................................................................. 49
Bioassessment Group ..................................................................................................... 50
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Florida Department of Environmental Protection, 2011 Quality Assurance Report
I.
Introduction
This inaugural Annual Quality Assurance (QA) Report to the Secretary of the Florida
Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) has been compiled by the QA staff of the
Standards and Assessment Section (SAS) within the Division of Environmental Assessment
and Restoration (DEAR), in coordination with the Quality Assurance Officers (QAOs) for
DEP’s programs and districts. Preparation of the annual QA report is the responsibility of the
SAS, as required by the DEP QA Directive (DEP 972), which was formally promulgated to
agency staff in October 2010. The report does not address QA activities for DEP’s Division of
Air Resource Management, which administers a separate QA program.
This report consists of the executive summaries extracted from individual QA reports
prepared by the program and district QAOs and submitted to SAS for this annual report. This
“self-reporting” approach allows each district or program area to best describe the QA
activities and issues in terms specific to DEP organizational units included in each report.
Additional details about the QA program for each of the reporting units may be found by
visiting DEP’s Web page listing of the associated reports.
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Florida Department of Environmental Protection, 2011 Quality Assurance Report
II.
Annual Report Summary
The vast majority of DEP’s organizational units whose programmatic responsibilities involve
the generation or use of environmental data have submitted information for the annual QA
report. Additionally, QA activities for responsibilities not related to the generation or use of
environmental data have also been described in this report by some of the units. The level of
QA activity varies according to the work functions of each unit or program, the degree to
which environmental data are produced or consumed in executing those functions, and the
extent to which a QA management system has been established for the unit. With the
implementation of the QA Directive, DEP now has an established internal policy for
distributing the management of the QA program throughout all levels of responsibility within
the agency. This annual report contains many examples of how the duties outlined in the QA
directive are implemented by DEP’s programs according to the framework of quality system
management provided by DEP Directive 972.
DEP’s programs and district offices provided a significant contribution for this first report,
which illustrates the benefit of an annual reporting process for evaluation, corrective action,
and planning for future activity in managing the agency’s data quality system and QA
program. With this report, it is evident that both technical and management staff are
committed to implementing and improving internal procedures for carrying out the various
functions of DEP’s QA program, while also seeking to provide service and outreach to
stakeholders outside of the agency concerning QA matters.
This report summarizes the activities comprising various functions of DEP’s QA program that
were performed by staff in 2011 and highlights QA issues of concern as identified by staff.
These include, in relative order of frequency of mention in the report:
•
QA Training – Training is the most common activity mentioned in the report. DEP staff
have delivered and received QA training on a variety of topics associated with field
activities, data review and assessment (including determinations of usability) and other
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Florida Department of Environmental Protection, 2011 Quality Assurance Report
miscellaneous procedures. Training was provided via hands-on instruction, guidance
documents, and other written information, some of which was produced by program
staff for use by other technical staff within the program or for the regulated public.
Planned or needed future training on certain topics has also been identified by some of
DEP’s work units.
•
Audits – Some organizational units within DEP performed QA assessments of
procedures and/or recordkeeping for field activities, laboratory analysis, and other
activities essential for environmental data collection or other efforts associated with
program responsibilities. These audits included evaluations of the performance of field
samplers, review of data associated with specific projects or facilities, and assessments
of quality systems at the program level. Audits of internal staff and systems as well as
those of external stakeholders were conducted by DEP units. DEP’s Bureau of
Laboratories was audited by external entities on several occasions during the year.
Some work units are also planning audits for 2012 in the areas of field procedures, lab
analysis and data QA assessments.
•
QA Coordination and Communication – DEP staff engaged in a variety of
coordination activities in their QA efforts. Communications with internal staff and
public stakeholders addressed areas of QA concern specific to the programs and
included such topics as standardized data reporting and compliance with mandated
QA requirements. Three of DEP’s district offices hosted public workshops for QA rule
development (Chapter 62-160, Florida Administrative Code [F.A.C.]). Areas where
additional QA coordination and outreach are planned or needed were also discussed by
some units that provided information for this report. DEP’s designated QAOs regularly
participated in scheduled teleconferences to facilitate coordination of the QA program
with SAS.
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Florida Department of Environmental Protection, 2011 Quality Assurance Report
•
Data Review and Assessment – QA review of data was conducted by various DEP
units to assess compliance with data quality objectives and the usability of data for
specific purposes. This included the use of the Automated Data Processing Tool
(ADaPT) data evaluation software by DEP’s Division of Waste Management. Planned or
needed data review activities are also discussed.
•
Development and Revision of QA Documents – Many units reviewed and revised
internal documents describing standard operating procedures (SOPs) and guidance
materials or created new QA documents for specific topics. Required quality plans were
updated or developed for some offices. Some units are also planning document
creation, reviews and updates in 2012. DEP staff also submitted comments for QA rule
development initiated in the fall of 2011
•
Identification of Deficiencies and Implementation of Corrective Actions – Many
organizational units within DEP identified minor deficiencies during the course of
audits, data assessments, document reviews or other operational reviews, and
subsequently implemented appropriate corrective actions for those QA findings. The
corrective actions involved both internal DEP activities and those of external
stakeholders. Typically, issues concerning data quality, procedures and documentation
were addressed. Some units also reported planned corrective actions to be implemented
for 2012. The following are examples of deficiencies noted in this report by DEP units
for which corrective actions were carried out:

A few sampling teams did not consistently meet documentation requirements,
used sampling equipment of inappropriate material construction, failed to have
back-up equipment, and did not use protective eyewear when using acid to
preserve water samples.
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Florida Department of Environmental Protection, 2011 Quality Assurance Report

Audit processes were implemented to ensure data systems were updated with
valid facility information and to confirm that Discharge Monitoring Report
(DMR) data were accurately entered.

Routine field reconnaissance noted a mistake in the ARC GIS layer for the
location and direction of a stream. An unknown permanent stream and two
unknown, intermittent streams were also found, and the trajectory for the
original reckoned stream was corrected.

Numerous QA issues were identified during the development of the Group 5,
Cycle 2 basin assessment lists. As a result, several water quality parameters were
excluded from multiple basins that directly affected the Group 5 assessments.

Internal audit and review identified new items to be documented in the 2012
quality plan for some of the current, operational practices utilized in a work unit.
These include the criteria and process by which data may be included or
excluded in data sets used for data evaluations, statistical analyses and data
usability determinations.

Internal review noted the documentation and tracking of changes to water body
identification (WBID) and station lists as procedures to improve. A series of
meetings were held using the Rapid Process Improvement (RPI) method to
streamline WBID and station metadata processing and to standardize technical
revisions made by staff. As a result, a series of corrective actions were planned
and an “RPI WBID/Station Tracking Sheet” was implemented.

QA review identified a series of contaminated nitrate/nitrite field blanks
associated with ambient monitoring data. Examination of the sampling process
identified the probable cause as the use of the same transfer pipette for both
nitric and sulfuric acids when preserving samples. Subsequently, all nutrient
samples preserved with the contaminated sulfuric acid were properly coded in
the data set, and corrective action was put in place to prevent future
contamination.
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Florida Department of Environmental Protection, 2011 Quality Assurance Report

Compliance inspections for drinking water and wastewater systems revealed
that some system operators were not following DEP SOPs for the calibration of
chlorine meters for compliance measurements. This testing procedure is now
being targeted during inspections, and information about this issue will now be
provided at operator workshops and DEP program meetings.

As a result of an audit finding, a work unit implemented a corrective action to
link the identification of individual water quality meters to water quality report
forms, field records, and meter calibration/verification logs, so that sample
measurements can be properly validated by inspection of documentation.

Regular review of data quality and associated documentation was conducted to
ensure compliance with program rules and procedures, facilitate proper contract
management and make corrective actions to improve work unit effectiveness and
the public’s ability to utilize DEP resources. These actions were also in part
initiated as a result of user commentary, complaints or other reports and requests
received from data users and the public. Errors in archival documents that had
been previously scanned and entered into Oculus were identified and corrected.

Improper reporting or poor data quality in reports submitted by regulated
entities was observed and has been addressed through compliance assistance,
but further outreach is needed.
•
Technical Assistance – Many units within DEP provide technical assistance to other
agency staff and programs and typically provide assistance to the regulated public and
other stakeholders concerning compliance with rules, permits, orders, contracts and
other requirements. Technical assistance specifically related to DEP’s QA program is
discussed in this report. The provision and interpretation of guidance information,
criteria and published requirements constitute the typical activities reported for 2011 or
planned for 2012. Some units developed customized assistance for targeted audiences
for the report year or are planning to do so in the coming year.
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Florida Department of Environmental Protection, 2011 Quality Assurance Report
III.
Regulatory Programs
Division of Environmental Assessment and Restoration
The Division of Environmental Assessment and Restoration (DEAR) conducts extensive water
quality monitoring, implements the statewide basin management/Total Maximum Daily Load
(TMDL) program, evaluates the water quality impacts of point source discharges from
domestic or industrial sources, reviews and analyzes mixing zone requests and develops rules
pertaining to surface water quality standards (Chapter 62-302, F.A.C.), ground water quality
standards (Chapter 62-520, F.A.C.) and other related rules.
Bureau of Assessment and Restoration Support
DEAR’s Bureau of Assessment and Restoration Support (BARS) is responsible for the
development of surface water quality standards in Chapter 62-302, F.A.C., including numeric
nutrient standards development, the Triennial Review of water quality standards, designation
of Outstanding Florida Waters and evaluations of petitions for reclassifications. Sections
within the bureau are charged with assessment of state surface waters for the identification of
impaired waters and implementation of DEP’s Ambient Monitoring program. The bureau also
carries out a variety of special projects, including the management of the QA Program and
development of the Bioassessment Program.
Standards and Assessment Section
DEP’s Standards & Assessment section (SAS) administers the QA and surface water quality
standards programs, is responsible for a number of special technical issues including mercury
and bioassessment, and provides technical support to other agency programs in the ecological
aspects of water quality science.
The 2011 calendar year included a series of QA training workshops that were developed by
SAS and delivered to DEP district and division staff in March, April, and May. This training
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was designed to address topics of general relevance to DEP programs and also included
information specifically requested by the programs.
The SAS initiated rule development activities for DEP’s QA Rule (Chapter 62-160, F.A.C.),
which incorporates agency SOPs as regulatory standards for sampling, field testing and
selected biological laboratory procedures. Draft revisions to the rule and DEP’s SOPs were
published in advance of three public workshops held in West Palm Beach, Tampa, and
Tallahassee during October 2011. The section also continued its rulemaking for the numeric
nutrient criteria (NNC) throughout 2011, and three of DEP’s SOPs for bioassessment activities
were revised in part to support the NNC effort. These rule-related activities were further
informed by additional efforts to evaluate components of the associated DEP SOPs with
specific field and laboratory studies.
SAS provided several QA training events for field sampling and field-testing procedures used
for bioassessment and environmental chemical analyses at many locations throughout Florida,
in the classroom, and at meetings and conferences. Trainees were from DEP, consulting firms,
other government agencies and the public. The section provided several internal training
activities for SAS staff in bioassessment, water quality sampling and field-testing procedures
throughout the year, and in March, a member of the section’s special projects staff attended
U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) training for the National Wetland Condition
Assessment sampling procedures. Assistance with the development of training materials was
also provided to other DEP programs.
SAS also initiated and completed a number of audits during the year. These included
performance audits of individuals and organizations (DEP staff, other government agency
staff, and private sector professionals ) to document that samplers and sampling teams could
demonstrate skill and proficiency in the use of the agency’s bioassessment SOPs. SAS
coordinated two inter-laboratory taxonomy identification quality control (QC) exercises to
ensure that DEP’s macroinvertebrate taxonomists were producing data of acceptable quality.
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Florida Department of Environmental Protection, 2011 Quality Assurance Report
An internal SOP for the inter-laboratory exercise was revised by the SAS biology QA
coordinator as part of that effort. The section conducted an internal performance audit of its
sampling teams in conjunction with the data collection efforts in the Apalachee Bay and
Ochlockonee Bay estuary systems. Staff from the University of Florida Center for Wetlands,
under contract with DEP, were audited to evaluate their wetlands sampling techniques against
the methods required for EPA’s National Wetland Condition Assessment effort, as well as
DEP’s SOPs. The section assisted DEP’s Bureau of Laboratories with audits of several
laboratories under contract with the agency to perform microbiology testing services in order
to assess the reliability of their reported data. During the microbiological audits, district QAOs
and other technical staff participated as part of SAS efforts to provide “hands on” training
opportunities for auditors. Additionally, SAS coordinated with the district QAOs and Bureau
of Laboratories staff to conduct a project audit of data used for developing revised dissolved
oxygen (DO) criteria for surface waters. Section QA staff also performed audits of calibration
data for two proposed site-specific alternative criterion studies for DO. Finally, QA staff
assisted other DEP program staff with audits or audit inquiries initiated by the programs.
SAS QA staff performed numerous additional tasks that provided technical assistance for a
broad range of QA topics via correspondence; attendance at meetings and teleconferences;
presentations to DEP staff and the public; review of QA planning documents for contracts and
projects; review of purchase orders for sampling and analysis; review of procedures and
technical criteria; data assessment and usability reviews; interpretation of rules and program
requirements; QA review of Natural Resource Damage Assessment reimbursement
applications for the Deepwater Horizon oil spill activities; and coordination with DEP QAOs
about various QA issues and tasks. Staff also coordinated with the Florida Department of
Health (DOH) and the QA Oversight Team (Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan) as
needed.
DEP’s Quality Management Plan was revised for submittal to EPA, and a Memorandum of
Agreement in support of a request for a waiver of the QA Project Plan requirement as a
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Florida Department of Environmental Protection, 2011 Quality Assurance Report
condition of the section 106 grant to the agency was drafted. A review of the QA rule was
conducted at the request of the Office of Fiscal Accountability and Regulatory Reform
(OFARR).
As part of our internal audit and review process, DEP identified topics that should be updated
in the SAS quality plan. The new items that will be documented in the 2012 quality plan
include the criteria and process by which data are included or excluded in data sets used for
data assessments, statistical analyses and data usability determinations for special projects,
and standards development. In addition, other current, operational practices for the standards,
special projects, and QA activities of the section will be further detailed with the 2012 plan
revisions.
For the upcoming year, SAS plans to focus more effort on the development of written and
web-based training and guidance materials, covering a number of QA topics, in order to assist
DEP’s data users, auditors, contract managers and QAOs, as well as the public. The section QA
staff also plan to implement efficiency improvements for audits conducted by the section and
write an audit SOP.
Watershed Assessment Section
DEP’s Watershed Assessment section (WAS), which is in BARS, is responsible for assessing
the state’s surface waters pursuant to the Identification of Impaired Surface Waters Rule
(IWR), Chapter 62-303, F.A.C., as part of the state’s watershed management program. The
assessments are conducted on an annual basis using a basin rotation approach such that onefifth of the state is assessed each year. In addition to processing millions of data results, this
work includes holding public meetings and responding to comments to confirm that accurate
assessments of Florida’s waterbodies are produced. This information is then submitted to EPA
in support of section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act.
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Florida Department of Environmental Protection, 2011 Quality Assurance Report
The 2011 calendar year included several QA activities and technical training events held
throughout the year that were directed at ensuring QA objectives were attained and that the
most current scientific knowledge, practice and public feedback were available to staff. One of
the primary areas of focus for WAS is evaluating whether ambient monitoring data meets
DEP’s usability criteria for assessing surface waters and that data collected are representative
of current conditions.
In addition to routine task assignments, several staff from the WAS participated in field
sampling trips to numerous northwest Florida beaches as part of DEP’s response to the
Deepwater Horizon oil spill. The field sampling took place from January to August 2011 along
the coastline from Walton to Wakulla County. Other field work included an audit of one data
provider whose contract was up for renewal. The purpose of the audit was to evaluate
whether or not sampling teams could demonstrate skill and proficiency in collecting water
samples following DEP SOPs.
The WAS identified numerous QA issues during the development of the Group 5, Cycle 2
basin assessment lists. This resulted in the exclusion of several water quality parameters from
multiple basins that directly affected the Group 5 assessments. Each member of WAS
contributed to the on-going review process of STORET sampling stations, WBIDs, and ambient
monitoring data used in the IWR assessments. WAS staff also provided editorial comments,
feedback, and technical guidance on several DEP rules that were opened for rule development
and revision as part of the Triennial Review of state surface water quality standards. This
included draft revisions to the IWR Rule (Chapter 62-303, F.A.C.), Surface Water Quality
Standards (Chapter 62-302, F.A.C.), Quality Assurance Rule (Chapter 62-160, F.A.C.), SOPs for
the BioRecon, Stream Condition Index (SCI), Lake Vegetation Index (LVI), Habitat
Assessments, development of NNC, and revisions to the DO criteria.
As part of the internal review process, WAS identified the documentation and tracking of
changes to WBID and station lists as an area to improve. This issue was addressed by holding
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Florida Department of Environmental Protection, 2011 Quality Assurance Report
a series of meetings using the RPI method to streamline WBID and station metadata
processing and to standardize technical revisions made by WAS staff. As a result, a series of
corrective actions were planned and the WAS created and implemented an “RPI
WBID/Station Tracking Sheet” for the section.
The WAS is continuously making improvements to the IWR assessment database distributed
by the section several times throughout the year. As the WAS begins the third cycle of the
basin rotation schedule, the process of tracking water quality impairments from cycle to cycle
is a high priority issue in the 2012 calendar year.
Watershed Monitoring Section
The Watershed Monitoring section’s (WMS) goal is to provide DEP with scientifically
defensible information on chemical, physical and biological characteristics of ground and
surface waters of the state. This information provides the basis for advising EPA, relevant DEP
programs, partner agencies, and the Governor and Legislature on the status of Florida’s water
quality.
DEP initiated the Status and Temporal Variability (Trend) Monitoring Networks for ambient
ground and surface freshwater resources in 2000. The Status Monitoring Network provides a
snapshot of the chemical and biological quality of waters in the state. The Trend Monitoring
Network measures changes in water quality over time. The data derived from both networks
can be examined to determine if there are changes in water quality due to management and
restoration efforts throughout the state. Data collection is accomplished through a
collaborative effort of four DEP teams (Tallahassee, Tampa, Ft. Myers, and Port St. Lucie), two
Water Management Districts (Northwest Florida Water Management District [NWFWMD]
and St. John’s River Water Management District [SJRWMD]) and one county (Alachua). These
data are summarized and submitted to EPA via the 305(b)/303(d) Integrated Report, which is
required under the federal Clean Water Act.
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In a multiagency, statewide program, it is essential to have a centralized QA system to ensure
that data are properly and consistently collected and analyzed. The QA system, as part of the
Data Quality Objectives (DQO) process, ensures that data are useful and defensible. The QA
program for the WMS is coordinated by the section’s QAO, in cooperation with DEP’s QA
Program Administrator in SAS, QAOs at external sampling agencies, and the agency’s Bureau
of Laboratories.
In 2011, WMS samplers collected a total of 1,814 water quality samples. 677 samples were for
the Status Network (450 surface water and 227 groundwater), while the remaining 1,137
samples were for the Trend Network (946 surface water and 191 groundwater). An additional
290 QA samples were collected and submitted to the laboratory as either Equipment Blanks or
Field Blanks in an effort to monitor the effectiveness of procedures designed to prevent
contamination of samples in the sampling system.
In 2011, the WMS conducted nine field performance audits of sampling teams. Auditors
evaluated and discussed sampling procedures and documentation requirements pertinent to
water chemistry, biological and sediment collection. Where necessary, corrective actions were
recommended and implemented. All audit results were satisfactory with only minor
deficiencies noted. Common deficiencies included failure to thoroughly meet documentation
requirements, the use of inappropriate material construction for sampling equipment, failure
to have back-up equipment, and the omission of protective eyewear during acid preservation.
In addition to performing field performance audits, the WMS also provided sampling training
to 28 staff, with topics covering surface water, groundwater and sediment sampling
techniques, documentation, reconnaissance, meter calibration, QA, cleaning and more.
Attendees included staff from DEP, NWFWMD, SJRWMD and Alachua County.
DEP WMS samplers from Tallahassee and Tampa participated in collecting groundwater
samples for a special study in 2011 to evaluate arsenic levels. The study is in collaboration with
the Florida Geological Survey (FGS) and will continue in 2012. Samplers collect monthly water
samples from a set of wells with known levels of arsenic in an effort to answer questions and
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Florida Department of Environmental Protection, 2011 Quality Assurance Report
to identify geochemical and geophysical processes relating to temporal variability of arsenic
concentrations in selected wells that tap the Floridan Aquifer System. The results from this
study will ultimately contribute to the overall goal of understanding the natural and
anthropogenic causes of arsenic mobilization.
The WMS encountered two specific challenges in 2011. In late 2010, the WMS experienced
several FedEx shipment failures of samples being sent to the Tallahassee Central Lab for
analyses. After discussions with FedEx did not meet our satisfaction and samples continued to
be delivered to the Lab out of analysis holding time, the WMS filed a formal complaint against
FedEx in early 2011. FedEx worked diligently with the agency to resolve the issue, but in the
area of the State where the majority of the failures were originating (Ft. Myers), WMS opted to
utilize an alternate shipping provider under state contract (UPS). Shipping performance was
satisfactory the remainder of the year.
Another challenge that developed in 2011 was related to the inability to fill vacant sampling
positions due to budget concerns and an ongoing analysis of staffing needs. The resultant
short staffing caused some disruption of scheduled monitoring activities and a challenge to
accomplish program requirements. This was an issue of concern encountered in 2011 that
continues in 2012.
Part of the overall monitoring program design is to continue to evaluate the monitoring
program and make necessary changes to support agency needs, as well as to refine the basic
sampling design. In 2012, WMS is adding tracers to the Status and Trend networks to
determine whether there may be a signature of anthropogenic discharges, and subsequently,
chemicals of concern that should be investigated. WMS is also planning a future pilot study
that will have protocols specific to the design to include biomarkers. In addition to tracers,
isotope analysis is being included for ground water samples in both networks to characterize
the source of nitrogen in samples with levels above a set threshold. As these programs are
developed, further information will be provided in future reports.
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Bureau of Laboratories
The Bureau of Laboratories supports DEP activities throughout the state and assists other
local, state and federal agencies in environmental activities. In addition to laboratory analyses
and technical consulting, the Bureau provides field sampling services to many DEP programs.
Audits
The Bureau of Laboratories participated in four assessments by external bodies in 2011. The
first was conducted by DOH, a TNI (The NELAC Institute) accreditation body from February 7
- 11, 2011. It is part of a recurring, biennial assessment conducted at the labs to maintain
National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Conference (NELAC) certification. The
auditors examined detailed laboratory records for all the tests and procedures in chemistry
and biology for which the laboratory is certified.
The second assessment was conducted jointly by the South Florida Water Management
District (SFWMD) and the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers (USACE) from April 19 - 20, 2011.
The assessors audited samples analyzed by the lab for projects associated with the
Comprehensive Everglades Restoration Plan (CERP). The third assessment was conducted by
EPA, Region 4 on the Bureau’s Particle Monitoring (PM 2.5) laboratory in August 2011. The
PM 2.5 lab conducts gravimetric analysis on air filters that measure the concentration of fine
particulates in air to check air quality compliance with the federal Clean Air Act.
The fourth assessment was a project data audit of DO field measurements and supporting
laboratory analyses for color, chlorophyll and nutrients conducted by the SAS in September
2011. This audit examined 2010 study data generated by DEP in support of the agency’s
proposed revisions to the DO criterion for surface waters.
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The Biology section conducted a total of 10 system audits on external laboratories that report
biological data to DEP. An internal system audit of the Chemistry and Biology sections was
also conducted by the lab QAO in August and September 2011.
Performance Testing
The lab participated in NELAC Performance Testing studies for chemistry and biology
parameters twice (Spring and Fall) for all required analytes in water matrices. Chemistry
parameters included tests for soil matrices as well. The laboratory also participated in the
United States Geological Survey (USGS) Round Robin Sample program twice with only minor
deviations from expected results. The lab participated in the biannual Mercury in Hair round
robin conducted by Health Canada and another round robin organized by Environment
Canada for parameters of interest to the SFWMD. Both Chemistry and Biology sections
participated in the Gulf of Mexico Alliance (GOMA) Round Robins in March and June 2011.
Both sections also took part in the Regional Ambient Monitoring Program (RAMP) round
robin for nutrients, chlorophyll, microbiological and inorganic parameters in October 2011.
The Biology section also participated in an annual Taxonomic round robin in the fall and two
chlorophyll round robins in June and October 2011. No significant QA or operational issues
were noted from these tests.
Personnel from the Biology section attended three QA training workshops devoted to the SCI,
Strategic Monitoring Plans (SMP) and QA training for water sampling and sondes. The first
workshop was held in Gadsden County in April 2011 while the remaining two were held in
Tallahassee in May 2011. The Biology section also provided SCI training to DEP staff in
Gadsden County in November 2011. The Biology section also participated in a number of QA
testing exercises throughout the year. They included testing for the Landscape Development
Index (LDI), SCI, Lake Vegetation Index (LVI) and Habitat Assessment.
The lab’s intake lab, which is part of the Emergency Response Laboratory Network (ERLN),
successfully conducted a minimum detection level (MDL) study on Chemical Warfare Agents
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Florida Department of Environmental Protection, 2011 Quality Assurance Report
(CWA) in real matrices this year. The intake lab is also participating in a Phase 3 study,
evaluating the analysis of (ultra-dilute) CWAs in real matrices. The Laboratory Support section
(LSS) also developed an application to export ERLN lab data to an Electronic Data Deliverable
(EDD) file that conforms to the requirements of EPA’s WebEDR portal. All ERLN labs are
required to submit data electronically to WebEDR.
Customer Feedback
The Bureau of Laboratories conducted an online customer satisfaction survey in May 2011. The
survey was mailed to more than 100 lab customers and included project managers, managers
DEP district offices, field sampling personnel and others who interact frequently with
laboratory staff. The results of the survey were generally favorable and several respondents
complimented the lab and its staff on their professionalism, and the quality of the services
delivered by the laboratory.
Customer feedback from the survey was used to implement several improvements in lab
operations. Among them were modifications to the Laboratory Information Management
System (LIMS) scheduler to better reflect the lab’s true capacity and thereby improve the
planning of sampling events by our customers. The lab has also adopted a policy for
conducting random checks of sampling kits to verify the accuracy of cooler contents against
the list of supplies requested in the event RQ (sampling kit request tracking number).
Bureau of Watershed Restoration
The Bureau of Watershed Restoration works with other state agencies, water management
districts, local governments, and the private sector; coordinates the collection, data
management, and interpretation of monitoring information to assess the health of our water
resources; develops watershed-based aquatic resource goals and pollutant loading limits for
individual water bodies; and develops and implements management action plans to preserve
or restore water bodies.
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Ground Water Management Section
DEP’s Ground Water Management section (GWMS) is responsible for conducting statewide,
basin-scale and detailed assessments of ground water quality, focusing on ground water as a
potable water resource as well as a source of base flow to streams, lakes and estuaries. The
section conducts quarterly monitoring of a network of Florida’s springs for water quality, and
carries out biological assessments using appropriate assessment tools, in coordination with
section staff, other DEP staff and contractors.
The GWMS also is responsible for data management (water quality and discharge data), QA
and assessment of data from the Springs monitoring network and special springs projects. The
GWMS collects springs water quality and discharge data from various agencies, analyzes the
data and produces assessment reports. The GWMS also has an integral role in assessing the
springs for TMDL development, writing TMDL documents for springs, and working on Basin
Management Action Plan (BMAP) activities pertaining to springs. GWMS staff members also
serve as DEP contacts, providing technical input to the Florida Department of Agriculture and
Consumer Services (DACS) by reviewing new pesticide registrations and evaluating best
management practices (BMP) manuals.
The 2011 calendar year included a few examples of QA in action within the section. Staff
conducted an audit of springs monitoring samplers in January to insure that all DEP SOPs are
followed properly in sample collection and preservation. The section QAO attended a two-day
training workshop conducted by the SAS in March. The section also experienced some data
management issues with springs monitoring data that were addressed and steps were taken to
avoid future issues.
In 2012, the GWMS plans to focus more effort on getting additional training on different
bioassessment methods for field staff, conducting restoration assessment monitoring, as well
as performing more and diverse types of audits in the section for field and office staff.
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Watershed Data Services STORET
DEP’s Watershed Data Services (WDS) STORET subsection implements Florida statutory
requirements, DEP rule requirements and EPA requirements for management of
environmental (non-regulatory databases) data for the state through Florida STORET. WDS
STORET manages data from both internal (e.g., District Offices through Florida STORET) and
external data providers (e.g., water management districts, counties, and local governments
through FLASTORET) and provides these data to internal and external users of the data
through the Florida STORET data warehouse and the publicly available STORET Public
Access (SPA) Website. Management of the data in Florida STORET includes working with data
providers to assist them with loading data to STORET by developing and maintaining
databases and other software applications, and training data providers (e.g., on data
maintenance, QA and migration). WDS STORET also uploads the data to the EPA Water
Quality Exchange (WQX) per federal requirements.
Much of the work conducted by WDS STORET staff is for the purpose of ensuring the
scientific and legal defensibility of the environmental data we manage. This annual QA Report
describes the training, assessment/auditing and corrective actions undertaken by WDS
STORET in 2011 to ensure that environmental data met DEP’s established quality criteria.
During 2011, one new STORET staff member was trained; five new data providers and new
staff for four established data providers were trained; and continuing training was conducted
for existing STORET staff. Also during 2011, WDS developed and implemented new data
checking tools and routines for use by STORET staff and by data providers and continued
with the implementation of existing data checking tools, including improvements to those
tools. As a result of the application of these tools and data checking processes, and working in
conjunction with data providers, STORET staff updated and verified approximately 950,000
records that were identified with issues or errors.
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In 2012, WDS STORET staff will continue to conduct training, data auditing and corrective
actions according to the section’s Quality Plan, including planning for improvements to those
processes, as appropriate and possible.
Watershed Evaluation and TMDL Section
DEP’s Watershed Evaluation and TMDL (WET) section has the primary responsibility for
determining TMDLs for nonpoint source pollutants and Water Quality-Based Effluent Limits
(WQBELs) for dischargers to state surface waters. TMDLs and WQBELs are derived using
mathematical and/or statistical models or water quality studies to determine the assimilative
capacity of receiving surface waterbodies. The section's objective in developing a TMDL or
WQBEL is to assure that nonpoint source pollutants and discharges into the surface waters of
the state will not degrade receiving water quality below applicable surface water quality
standards (Rule 62-302, F.A.C.) or affect the designated uses of the receiving water.
During the 2011 calendar year, WET attended a series of QA training workshops designed to
address topics of general relevance to DEP programs. Other routine QA activities performed
by the WET QA staff included technical assistance to section staff; review of QA planning
documents for contracts and grants; and coordination with DEP’s designated QAOs. As part of
the section’s responsibilities for QA coordination with EPA, the WET Quality Management
Plan was revised and updated.
The WET section initiated and completed a number of audits during the year, including
performance audits of individuals to document that samplers and sampling teams could
demonstrate skill and proficiency in the use of DEP’s SOPs. The section conducted an internal
performance audit of its sampling teams in conjunction with the data collection efforts in the
Escambia Bay and Lake Munson systems and a records audit of projects conducted in the
Caloosahatchee Basin.
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As part of the WET 2011 internal audit process, the section identified documentation as an area
in need of improvement. The section conducts data analyses for TMDL and WQBEL projects,
but the criteria and process by which data are included or excluded in data sets used for the
analyses have not, in some cases, been documented in a sufficiently clear manner. WET will
clarify this documentation in the future. In addition, for some projects, records related to QA
activities (such as meter calibrations) are not maintained in a consistent manner. In 2012, WET
will create a standard format and list of required QA/QC elements that must be documented
and maintained. These improvements in documentation for data analysis and operational
practices will be further explained with this year’s revisions to the WET Quality Plan.
In 2012, WET plans to focus more effort on the development of written guidance materials,
covering a number of QA topics. The guidance will be directed at assisting WET’s data users to
evaluate data using a standardized set of protocols and to standardize record keeping
throughout the section. WET QA staff also plan to implement efficiency improvements for
audits they conduct and establish an audit SOP that would be included with the WET Quality
Plan.
Division of Waste Management
DEP’s Division of Waste Management (DWM) consists of three bureaus: the Bureau of
Petroleum Storage Systems, the Bureau of Solid and Hazardous Waste, and the Bureau of
Waste Cleanup. DWM is strongly committed to the sound science and QA practices that will
produce environmental data of appropriate quality to be used for decision making. It is the
policy of the DWM that all decisions which are made to protect human health and safeguard
the environment will be based on data of sufficient known quality to support the level of
decision required. The policy also includes a commitment by management that the QA system
supporting the generation of data will be implemented as described in the DWM Quality
Assurance Plan. The policy is achieved by ensuring that adequate and acceptable planning,
implementation, and assessment procedures are utilized through all phases of projects,
studies, and tasks which require the generation of environmental data.
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Bureau of Petroleum Storage Systems
The Bureau of Petroleum Storage Systems (BPSS) implements the petroleum cleanup program
pursuant to Chapter 62-770, F.A.C. and storage tank regulation pursuant to Chapters 62-761
and 62-762, F.A.C. The petroleum cleanup program is administered in Tallahassee by four
sections (PCS1 through PCS4). In addition, BPSS has contracts with WRScompass (PCS5),
Ecology and Environment (PCS6) and 14 local programs that oversee 20 counties. The six
Tallahassee teams work primarily on state-funded sites, although they provide technical
assistance to the district offices for facilities with discharges not eligible for state funding and
also to the Bureau of Emergency Response. The local programs oversee facilities with statefunded and non state-funded discharges.
The BPSS issued six guidance memoranda on QA issues, addressed problems with two
laboratories, and provided clarifications as needed on minor issues. In addition, BPSS staff
participated in QA training provided by the SAS and also provided in-house training for the
Tallahassee teams and local programs.
Bureau of Solid and Hazardous Waste
The Bureau of Solid and Hazardous Waste (BSHW) function is to implement state and federal
laws relating to recycling, pollution prevention, and solid and hazardous waste management.
BSHW works closely with DEP’s district Waste Management Programs to implement
permitting, compliance, and enforcement activities in order to promote recycling and protect
the environment from the improper handling and disposal of solid and hazardous waste.
BSHW includes regulatory programs for solid and hazardous waste management facilities and
non-regulatory activities such as financial and technical assistance for recycling and waste
reduction.
A primary QA improvement undertaken by the BSHW has been the adoption and use of the
ADaPT software in the evaluation, processing, and storing of environmental data. ADaPT is a
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Microsoft Access application used to evaluate analytical chemistry data from soil and water
samples. It checks for the completeness of data using method specific Quality Control (QC)
elements specified in the DWM library and then further evaluates the data. For example, it
evaluates all QC data reporting, all QC that exceeds specific QC limits, and compares all lab
QC accuracy and precision information reported in the Electronic Data Deliverable (EDD)
against the criteria established in the DWM library. Further, it evaluates holding times and
looks for contamination in the samples collected for field equipment blanks. If QC problems
(outliers) exist and the laboratory has not assigned or has incorrectly assigned the appropriate
qualifiers, then ADaPT will add the necessary qualifiers to the associated sample results.
ADaPT also generates a regulatory comparison report to assist DEP staff in compliance
determinations and allows for the electronic upload of the results to our Water Assurance
Compliance (WACS) database. Additional validation of water quality data is performed
through field audits by BSHW staff, where water quality sampling events are monitored and
evaluated for compliance with established DEP SOPs.
Bureau of Waste Cleanup
The Bureau of Waste Cleanup (BWC) is responsible for all activities relating to the cleanup of
sites contaminated by hazardous substances or other pollutants and for conducting
investigations of soil and groundwater contamination. BWC also provides scientific and
engineering assistance and reviews for DEP’s nonpetroleum cleanup programs, with special
emphasis on the use of risk-based corrective action principles to the greatest extent possible to
achieve the level of public health and environmental protection required by law at the lowest
possible cost. The bureau administers the Voluntary Cleanup Tax Credit and DEP’s role in the
Florida Brownfields Redevelopment Program, both of which provide substantial incentives to
private parties for the voluntary cleanup of contaminated sites.
BWC has performed and participated in a number of activities aimed at improving the overall
quality of deliverables generated and received. BWC has incorporated the use of the ADaPT
software as a requirement for all data deliverables, performed Incremental Sampling
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Florida Department of Environmental Protection, 2011 Quality Assurance Report
Methodology (ISM) and Institutional Controls Procedure Guidance (ICPG) training, and
participated in QA training provided by the SAS and Contract Management training provided
by the Florida Department of Financial Services. BWC also performed multiple field audits
and completed 18 Institutional Control and Engineering Control Audit reports
Division of Water Resource Management
DEP’s Division of Water Resource Management administers programs to protect the quality of
Florida’s drinking water as well as its rivers, lakes, beaches and wetlands. The division
oversees surface water, ground water, and wetlands protection programs; construction and
operation of drinking water systems and domestic and industrial wastewater facilities; mine
reclamation; beach restoration; and water facilities funding.
Bureau of Mining and Minerals Regulation
The Bureau of Mining and Minerals Regulation administers the laws, rules and regulations
related to the reclamation of mined land, mine environmental resource permitting, mine safety
training, phosphogypsum management and mine dam safety.
Phosphate Management Program
In 2011, the Phosphate Management Program sampling staff attended a two day training
session on March 22 and 23, 2011. During this training event, staff from Tallahassee reviewed
the field and calibration sheets used by the program and noted some minor suggestions.
Additionally, the QAO or another representative participated in the quarterly QA
teleconferences.
Bureau of Water Facilities Regulation
The Bureau of Water Facilities Regulation administers rules for proper industrial and domestic
wastewater treatment; manages DEP’s reclaimed water reuse program; implements the federal
National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES); and manages the groundwater
regulatory program, which includes the source water and protection program and the
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underground injection control programs in Florida. The bureau also manages the federallydelegated drinking water program.
Wastewater Compliance Evaluation Section
The Wastewater Compliance Evaluation (WCE) section in Tallahassee serves to facilitate
statewide coordination of compliance and enforcement activities as well as promote better
information management for the state’s permitted domestic and industrial wastewater
facilities. In fulfilling these roles, the section coordinates development and use of several
wastewater information management systems. These systems are vital for tracking
wastewater facility compliance and evaluating regulatory compliance for wastewater facilities
on a statewide basis. These information systems include not only those specifically dedicated
to tracking compliance and enforcement activities, but also those systems dedicated to
maintaining an accurate inventory of wastewater facilities in the state. All chemical samples
from wastewater facilities are required to be analyzed by a DOH certified laboratory.
In 2011, the WCE section made several efforts to improve the quality of data being entered
into the state and federal databases. These improvements consisted of more in-depth permit
reviews during the permitting process, updates to the instructions for facilities submitting
data and changes to how the data is entered into the databases.
WCE staff provided training on how to set up the data systems, properly submit data for entry
into the data systems and enter data into the data systems. Audit processes were also
implemented to ensure data systems were updated with valid facility information and to
confirm that DMR data was accurately entered. As a result of the training and audits, several
issues were identified and corrective actions were developed and implemented to address
those issues.
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Underground Injection Control Program
The Underground Injection Control (UIC) program regulates, for the purpose of protecting
underground drinking water sources, the construction, operation, permitting, and closure of
injection wells that place fluids underground for storage, disposal or remediation. UIC
facilities are not only responsible for the collection of compliance water samples and on-site
water quality measurements, but also for submitting this data to the UIC program. All
chemical samples from UIC facilities are required to be analyzed by a DOH certified
laboratory.
The UIC program, located in Tallahassee, is primarily responsible for managing the water
quality data, which is stored in the Water Assurance Compliance System (WACS) database.
The main QA efforts for 2011 were evaluating data submittals from UIC facilities for
consistency with their permit conditions, identifying and eliminating erroneous data in the
database, standardizing reporting, working towards electronic data entry, and updating
locational and injection well data.
Drinking Water Section
The Drinking Water section located in Tallahassee is responsible for writing rules, developing
policy, managing funds, providing training, data management, and managing special
initiatives as well as oversight of all the state-wide public water system data. Drinking Water
section staff also resolve any database compliance issues and provide data entry technical
support to DEP’s six district offices and the nine approved county public health units. All
chemical samples from drinking water facilities are required to be analyzed by a DOH
certified laboratory. Over the course of 2011, the section participated in training workshops
and oversaw several audit activities.
Florida Geological Survey
The Office of the Florida Geological Survey (FGS) conducts geoscience surveys, research, data
collection and interpretation for use by the public, academic institutions, private industry,
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Florida Department of Environmental Protection, 2011 Quality Assurance Report
environmental consultants, and local, federal and state government entities including
programs within DEP. In all of its data gathering and analysis activities, FGS has historically
complied with applicable standards and procedures in the DEP QA/QC Master Plan or
operated under general guidance of the DEP QA/QC program. FGS is dedicated to collection
of high-quality data following SOPs and QA measures to meet data-integrity needs of enduser applications. FGS-generated data and interpretations support the needs of more than onethird of DEP’s programs. In 2012, FGS is engaged in refinement of SOPs and development of a
robust and well documented QA/QC plan.
Geological Investigations Section
The Geological Investigations section collects and interprets surface and subsurface geologic
and geophysical data (including reference samples) and generates geologic maps and cross
sections, providing framework information and mineral resource assessments, both onshore
and offshore. The section is also responsible for data gathering and interpretation for use in
projects involving coastal geology, geomorphology, paleontology and stratigraphy. Geological
hazards and related subsidence issues are also handled by this section which maintains the
statewide subsidence database (formerly managed by the Florida Sinkhole Research Institute).
The section’s Geologic Data Acquisition Program acquires, prepares, describes, archives and
maintains geological data and samples (cores and well cuttings) collected to support the
research needs of DEP and its broad customer base.
Applied Geoscience Services Section
The Applied Geoscience Services section conducts and administers research focused primarily
on the hydrogeologic characterization of karstic and coastal watersheds including the
dynamics of surface water - groundwater interaction as well as water-rock reactions affecting
water quality. Predictive methods and models (e.g., numerical and geochemical) are
developed to characterize or address complex environmental water-quality issues in support
of DEP programmatic needs and sustainability of water resources. The section also provides
geological research and mapping support through GIS analysis. Procedures for data entry and
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review for spatial accuracy are iterative, involving multiple staff per record, and metadata are
maintained. he geological research library provides research and literature review services as
well as production, publication, and distribution of the FGS’s scientific products, all of which
follow a stringent scientific peer-review process to ensure quality and scientific defensibility.
As example of QA/QC activities, the section’s Geochemistry Program conducts sophisticated
research on the detection, geochemical behavior and fate of arsenic in water and rock matrices
associated with wells, including aquifer storage and recovery projects. The group’s field and
lab activities meet or exceed requirements of existing DEP protocols. Analytical contracts only
engage laboratories that are National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program
(NELAP)-certified for all routine geochemical analyses. Staff members employ a variety of QC
measures to assess and ensure measurements validity and frequently submit reference
materials and blind matrix spikes to assess laboratory accuracy. Extensive data review and
validation are completed to ensure the scrutiny of field blank data. Researchers also assess the
accuracy by precision excursion analysis to ensure internal consistency of data; periodic
QA/QC reports are generated.
In the cases where FGS’s procedures are too unique or specialized, FGS will continue to
develop SOP’s to be followed in conducting our various data gathering and analysis activities.
Depending on the availability of funds and agency policy, training opportunities are
encouraged to further staff expertise in emerging field and laboratory procedures.
In summary, many FGS staff members are highly trained to accomplish field and laboratory
activities in general compliance with DEP’s QA/QC Master Plan. Staff members are familiar
with existing DEP protocols and to collect and maintain accurate and precise data and efforts
are underway to further our QA/QC program.
IV.
Land and Recreation Programs
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Office of Coastal and Aquatic Managed Areas
DEP’s Office of Coastal and Aquatic Managed Areas (CAMA) manages 41 Aquatic Preserves
and in coordination with the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA),
three National Estuarine Research Reserves (NERR), the Florida Keys National Marine
Sanctuary (FKNMS), and the Southeast Florida region of the Florida Reef Tract (Coral Reef
Conservation Program [CRCP]), totaling more than four million acres of submerged lands and
select coastal uplands. In managing these areas, CAMA focuses on a comprehensive,
ecosystem-based approach that takes into account the unique attributes and challenges
presented by each individual area. QA/QC processes are routinely integrated into a wide
variety of environmental monitoring, data collection and analysis by CAMA staff and
contractors. In many cases, CAMA is the only entity performing comprehensive monitoring in
these managed areas.
The CRCP oversees a variety of projects including the Southeast Florida Coral Reef Evaluation
and Monitoring Program (SECREMP) and the Southeast Florida Coral Reef Water Quality
Monitoring Program (SECRWQMP). QA/QC processes are integrated into all project aspects
with every person performing field sampling and/or lab testing set by SOPs, project-specific
requirements and other instructions to ensure samples collected are of acceptable quality and
legally defensible. In addition, CRCP staff annually participate in the Florida Reef Resilience
Program (FRRP) as in-field researchers for our region.
Each aquatic preserve has multiple monitoring programs within its specific region including
water quality, listed species monitoring and seagrass transect monitoring. Each program
undergoes a variety of QA/QC procedures to ensure staff and equipment are collecting the
most accurate data possible. QA protocols may vary among the aquatic preserves based upon
unique requirements found at each site.
As part of a national system-wide project entitled “Synthesis of Ecological and Sociodemographic Data to Categorize Reserve Sensitivity to Climate Change”, each of the three
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Florida NERRs updated MDL data reporting criteria in their nutrient and chlorophyll longterm datasets to facilitate the inclusion of these long-term data in the national synthesis. These
long-term datasets are part of the nationally-integrated, NOAA funded System-Wide
Monitoring Program (SWMP) that is conducted at all 28 NERR sites.
NOAA invitational travel is offered annually to NERR staff for SWMP training. This
comprehensive training covers operation and maintenance of water quality datasondes and
meteorological stations as well as nutrient/chlorophyll collection and handling methods. The
training also covers data management, metadata creation and stringent QA/QC procedures
that are required at all NERR sites. Factory representatives conduct some of the training
sessions and are available for consultation with staff in attendance. Due to travel restrictions,
CAMA staff has not attended this training since February 2009. Maintaining adequate
compliance and proficiency in the nationally-integrated SWMP procedures and data
management is a requirement of the annual NOAA grant funding received by each NERR in
Florida and is critical to the continued success of this program in Florida.
CAMA staff at the three NERR sites submit annual SWMP datasets and metadata to the
NOAA Central Data Management Office (CDMO). Data undergo extensive QA/QC by CAMA
staff following NERRs protocol prior to submission; additional QAQC is performed by CDMO
staff prior to public dissemination of data. SWMP data consist of long-term continuously
monitored meteorological, water quality, nutrient and chlorophyll data collected by CAMA
staff at each NERR. SWMP data is publicly available at http://nerrsdata.org/.
CAMA staff follow DEP SOPs for QA when applicable, in addition to complying with
applicable QA requirements from project-specific funding sources and research partners.
As part of NERR SWMP QA/QC, laboratory unknowns were sent to all laboratories
performing nutrient and chlorophyll analysis for all NERR sites in October 2011. Results are
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Florida Department of Environmental Protection, 2011 Quality Assurance Report
pending. All laboratories performing nutrient and chlorophyll analysis for the NERR SWMP
are certified by NELAP.
Division of Recreation and Parks
DEP’s Division of Recreation and Parks (DRP) manages the Florida Park Service, which is a
land management agency administering 160 state parks and 11 state trails and greenways on
approximately 792,000 acres. State park management includes the planning, design,
construction, and repair of modern recreational facilities; restoration and conservation of 74
different native biological community types distributed throughout the managed acreage;
preservation of hundreds of historical structures and archaeological sites; and administration
of visitor services and interpretive programming for 20.4 million state park visitors annually
(2011).
Land stewardship involves the collection and interpretation of a great variety of information.
While this information is used for internal decision-making in the day-to-day activities of state
park staff, it is not used for regulatory purposes and it would never be expected to be used in
legal proceedings. In fact, DRP is an entity that is regulated and generally speaking, does not
regulate. After substantial discussion, DRP has concluded that, due to cost, it would not be
beneficial to establish a QA program for environmental data used for day-to-day land
management activities.
Nevertheless, the Florida Park Service does collect some data which are used by outside
agencies, and these activities are identified in the DRP Quality Plan. These activities only occur
in some parks, but include water sampling of public-use wells, wastewater systems, and
swimming areas; testing of chlorine and pH levels in wells; and the collection of ecological
data by staff and volunteers for certain imperiled species. For the water quality collections,
protocols and equipment are provided to staff by the local County Health Department (CHD)
or the testing lab. For potable water wells, staff collect and analyze chlorine levels using overthe-counter commercial testing kits, as regulated by the CHD. Parks that use meters for testing
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Florida Department of Environmental Protection, 2011 Quality Assurance Report
in wastewater treatment facilities calibrate them daily according to permit standards written in
DRP’s SOP Manual. Individual parks with waste-water treatment plants or performance-based
septic systems contract the testing of septic water to comply with permits from DEP, which are
written to the QA requirements adopted by DEP. Lastly, ecological data for certain imperiled
species are collected by staff and volunteers according to protocols administered by the
Florida Fish and Wildlife Conservation Commission for marine turtles and scrub-jays.
The DRP Quality Plan is now under review by DEAR’s SAS QA staff. Thus no reports have
been prepared to date. Nevertheless, no QA problems in the areas discussed above were
reported in 2011.
Division of State Lands
DEP’s Division of State Lands (DSL) is Florida’s lead agency for environmental land
management and stewardship, serving as staff to the Board of Trustees (BOT) of the Internal
Improvement Trust Fund (Governor and Cabinet). Therefore, DSL’s role and responsibilities
go far beyond just acquiring lands for protection. The division provides oversight for the
management of activities on more than 11 million acres of public lands including lakes, rivers
and islands. DSL administers the Florida Forever Program, Florida’s blueprint for conserving
our natural resources and renewing our commitment to conserve our natural and cultural
heritage. DSL also assists landowners who want to sell land to the state, buy land from the
state or gain access to public lands. As such, DSL believes in sound and useful QA/QC
management practices to effectively complete the various tasks and goals associated with
carrying out its mission.
DSL is organized into six separate program areas: Director’s Office, Office of Environmental
Services, Bureau of Public Land Administration, Bureau of Land Acquisition, Bureau of
Appraisal and Bureau of Surveying and Mapping. Each program area (bureau) is then divided
further into project areas or sub-programs. All six program areas within DSL provide different
functions.
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The 2011 calendar year QA/QC activities in DSL were again numerous. QA/QC continued to
be monitored by those individuals involved in each in-house process, as well as by
supervisors, bureau chiefs and, at times, hired contractors along with DSL’s associated
contract managers for 2011. The QAO for the division was not involved in the many processes
that were executed throughout the division on a daily basis in 2011, but rather, continued to
act as a policy leader for the division as a whole.
DSL program staff performed necessary tasks in every instance to ensure that all work
performed and all products generated were completed with full adherence to the applicable
DEP rules and policies.
DSL’s senior management continued to ensure that this quality system was fully operational
within the division’s programs and that the designated QAO provided general oversight.
Managers also continued to evaluate the numerous processes within the programs to ensure
they met the program’s needs, and periodically evaluated the effectiveness of staff’s data
quality activities, including reviewing audit results. They also evaluated corrective action
policies and procedures to be implemented when data did not meet program objectives.
DSL continued to conduct data review on a regular basis within each applicable working
group to determine the usability of data for determination of compliance with rules, etc. in the
past year. Additionally, DSL continued to carry out numerous record-keeping procedures
such as calculation checks, data archiving, checks of database entries, document control and
maintenance, and record generation, retention and storage procedures to ensure appropriate
documentation. This ensured that DEP contracts that are administered throughout the division
were properly managed to assure appropriate data quality as well. Corrective actions, when
necessary, were practiced routinely in an effort to improve both working areas effectiveness
and the public’s ability to utilize DEP resources. Such actions were in part initiated as a result
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Florida Department of Environmental Protection, 2011 Quality Assurance Report
of user commentary, complaints, or other reports received from data users and the public
requesting revisions, etc.
DSL continued completion of administrative QA/QC in 2011. Data was generated and used
for budget reconciliation, allocations, reports and correspondence for each bureau’s operating
expenses. Resolution assistance was given to staff with timesheet problems, and any other
People First System functions. Performance Measures Data Collection (PMDC) assistance,
property and supply inventory and travel and Purchase Card (P-Card) reconciliation of
expenses continued to be a part of each bureau’s QA/QC responsibilities.
In addition to the normal everyday QA/QC functions performed by division personnel, DSL’s
QA/QC activities in the 2011 calendar year included multiple trainings, audits, issues and
corrective actions. Several Florida Communities Trust staff were able to achieve completion of
two trainings: a Tree Identification training and an Archeological Resource Management
training. The auditing program area within the Bureau of Public Land Administration also
accomplished two trainings: the first related to mining activities to improve auditing of Board
of Trustee commercial leases, and the second involved sales tax information to improve audits
of submerged land lease fee reports and assist the Florida Department of Revenue (DOR) with
certain tax collections. The division was also subject to several audits: Environmental Site
Assessment, Acquisition/Appraisal and a prior audit follow-up to the most recent Leases,
Easements and Other Uses of State-Owned Lands audit. In 2011, issues were identified
regarding errors in archival documents that had been previously scanned and entered into
Oculus, and, multiple corrective actions were implemented in response to the issues noted
above.
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V.
Water Policy and Ecosystem Projects Programs
Office of Ecosystem Projects
DEP’s Office of Ecosystem Projects (OEP) coordinates development of department-wide
strategies for implementing ecosystem management at both the policy and operational levels;
evaluates agency needs for ecosystem research and monitoring and develops cooperative
projects with universities and institutions; coordinates DEP’s implementation of the
Everglades Forever Act; CERP Regulation Act, the Northern Everglades and Estuaries
Protection Program, and serves as DEP’s contact for Everglades issues.
Program Coordination and Regulation Section
The Program Coordination and Regulation (PCR) section is part of OEP and consists of
personnel located in both Tallahassee and West Palm Beach. The PCR section bears significant
responsibility regarding south Florida restoration projects undertaken pursuant to the
authority under the CERP Regulation Act (CERPRA, 373.1502, F.S.), Everglades Forever Act
(EFA, 373.4592, F.S.), Northern Everglades and Estuaries Protection Program (NEEPP,
373.4595, F.S, and the general responsibilities of DEP. PCR responsibilities include program
coordination, litigation support, policy development, permit review and processing, permit
compliance, and administering disbursement and tracking of funds. In addition, the PCR
section provides technical support via participation and coordination in project planning,
project design and engineering and research and monitoring activities required in accordance
with the EFA, NEEPP and CERPRA.
In the 2011 calendar year, the PCR section was aligned under OEP. The OEP is comprised of
two sections: the PCR section and the Restoration Planning and Project Management (RPPM)
section. The PCR’s QA Plan will be updated during calendar year 2012 to reflect these changes.
OEP’s planning and project development responsibilities are primarily conducted by the
RPPM section staff located at the SFWMD headquarters. While their efforts are critical to
OEP’s responsibilities, the QA plan presented here reflects efforts associated with those
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activities undertaken by the PCR section. It is anticipated that the calendar year 2012 update
will also result in a separate or combined plan for each of the sections.
During 2011, the PCR section built upon its previous QA Management Plan (QAMP) by
continuing to refine existing permitting, compliance, and data review procedures. The PCR
section focused significant effort on ensuring complete and accurate administrative record
keeping including: maintenance of electronic databases, continued transition from hardcopy to
electronic project files where applicable, and annual updates to section guidance manuals. The
PCR section continued to refine its tracking and reviewing system for annual reports,
compliance deliverables, permit requests, and coordination with our primary applicants, the
USACE and SFWMD.
All section staff participated in agency required training and resource area trainings specific to
Water Quality Standards, GIS, Uniform Mitigation Assessment Method (UMAM), Wetland
Assessment, Sediment and Erosion Control, Environmental Resource Permitting, State Lands,
Bioremediation, Quality Assurance, and TMDL training.
In 2012, the PCR section plans on further modifying the existing database(s) to maximize its
use as a tool for analyzing and tracking performance measures, placing more of an emphasis
on regular internal trainings to expand and build on staff expertise in varying program areas
and introduce formal audits.
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VI.
Department District Offices
Central District
Central District Potable Water Program
DEP’s Central District Potable Water program is responsible for implementing the federal and
Florida Safe Drinking Water Acts. This includes Chapters 62-550, 62-555, 62-560, 62-602, and
62-699, F.A.C., as well as the federal Ground Water and Stage 2 Disinfectant/Disinfection
Byproduct Rules. These rules are applied to 1,123 public water systems in Brevard, Indian
River, Lake, Marion, Orange, Osceola, and Seminole counties.
District program staff routinely carry out the following duties: reviewing drinking water
sample data for over 100 analytes, entering data into the PWS database, updating PWS
inventory information and assigning violations and coordinating enforcement when
necessary. All program staff work to ensure that their work products are defensible and
adhere to DEP and EPA rules and policies.
During 2011, numerous efforts were made by program staff to train and educate water system
owners and operators on sample requirements and proper sampling techniques. Program staff
sought out training opportunities to increase their knowledge and quality of work. The district
developed several SOPs to ensure consistent and quality processing of our data.
Due to the vast amount of data received and processed by the Central District Potable Water
Program, numerous audits were conducted throughout 2011. These audits included routine
reviews of water quality data, performance of program staff, and special audits to review
water quality complaints, incident reporting, and sample observation.
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Some challenges were presented to our program in 2011. Due to the variety of facilities
regulated (churches and restaurants to office complexes and large municipalities), we
encountered obstacles in obtaining data and in some cases, obtaining quality data. Issues with
the Oracle PWS Database (administered by Drinking Water HQ staff in Tallahassee) were also
noted that affected data quality. Additionally, issues related to evaluation of data qualifiers
have revealed the need for increased communication and coordination with DEP’s SAS and
DOH’s Laboratory Certification section.
To address some problems, we made adjustments to our reminder processes and observed and
educated water system operators. Issues with the Oracle PWS Database and other programs
were brought to the attention of Tallahassee staff.
For 2012, the district plans to increase the number of operator workshops, continue to provide
monitoring reminder schedules, continue the development and revision of SOPs as needed,
continue seeking out training opportunities for program staff, and continue our various data
audits to ensure that we receive quality data from our regulated facilities.
Central District Groundwater Section
DEP’s Central District Groundwater section provides assurance that the groundwater data
submitted to the district from wastewater facilities is reliable. The section reviews permit
application data to ensure that the protection of groundwater is adequate for each location.
Assurance is provided that the discharges from the domestic and industrial wastewater
facilities located within the district will not harm the environment.
Sampling personnel for the domestic and industrial wastewater facilities are required to follow
the DEP’s SOPs for groundwater sampling. District Groundwater section personnel examine
the data submitted for QA adequacy.
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The district’s Groundwater section implemented a tracking system to provide a record of the
QA activities for the year of 2011. This spread sheet tracking system was initiated in July 2011.
Some activities were completed in the field.
Site visits were conducted to determine that monitoring wells were located in accordance with
wastewater rules. During site visits photographs were taken, GPS data was collected, physical
measurements were taken and field notes were made in field books. Hard copies of reports or
documents were collected as necessary. If required, split samples of groundwater were
collected and sent to DEP’s Tallahassee laboratory for analysis.
In the office, groundwater monitoring reports were reviewed for errors and missing data.
Field sampling logs, chain of custody documents, equipment calibration data and laboratory
reports were also reviewed if these documents were submitted.
Non-compliance issues were addressed in a timely manner verbally or in letters. Most had
satisfactory outcomes. Most items were resolved through phone calls to the appropriate party,
or by non-compliance letters. A few issues will need to be resolved through field observation
of calibration of field equipment and a sampling event with the particular agency or consultant
personnel. These will be carried over to 2012 when a more comprehensive field audit program
will be initiated.
Central District Wastewater Section Quality Assurance Program
DEP’s Central District Wastewater section QA Program (WWQAP) is responsible for
reviewing external data received by the section, conducting wastewater sample collection
activities, and performing external data audits of regulated facilities. The 2011 calendar year
included many QA activities, such as:
• Internal and external QA training,
• External audits of regulated facilities
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• Development of a section specific QA plan,
• Sample collection and field meter calibration/maintenance activities,
• Quarterly QA meetings with SAS, and
• External data reviews.
In 2012, WWQAP plans to focus on the further implementation of the sections QA plan. The
revision of section specific SOPs for wastewater sample collection and field meter maintenance
will also be addressed. QA audits of both internal and external practices will continue to be
evaluated. WWQAP will also continue to develop an efficient and effective process to review
external data.
Central District Watershed Management and Monitoring Program
DEP’s Central District Watershed Management and Monitoring (WMM) program performs
water quality and macroinvertebrate sampling in support of the agency’s ongoing water
quality monitoring programs and special projects. WMM follows the applicable collection and
QC protocols and requirements described in DEP’s SOPs.
In the 2011 calendar year, watershed employees participated in a series of training workshops
which built upon their capabilities in biological assessments and water chemistry sampling.
Biologists coordinated with macroinvertebrate taxonomy experts within and outside of DEP
via teleconferences and coordinated training sessions. Bioassessment training was conducted
throughout the year as part of annual biological workshops. The LVI training provided an
opportunity for the district LVI sampling team to complete their annual refresher audit.
The only major QA issue for the year was a series of contaminated nitrate/nitrite field blanks
samples. WMM employees thoroughly examined their sampling process to identify the source
of contamination which is believed to have been the result of mistakenly using the same
transfer pipette for both nitric and sulfuric acids when preserving samples. Subsequently all
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Florida Department of Environmental Protection, 2011 Quality Assurance Report
nutrient samples preserved with the contaminated sulfuric acid were properly coded and
corrective action was put in place to prevent future contamination.
WMM employees performed routine QC practices and audit exercises
throughout the year. These practices included data entry verification, macroinvertebrate
sample sorting quality checks, and annual performance audits for water quality sampling and
the LVI assessment. No major deficiencies were found and corrective actions were enacted to
address minor deficiencies. QA issues were routinely discussed in the bimonthly statewide
QA teleconferences and internal program meetings.
Northeast District
DEP’s Northeast District administers the QA and surface water quality standards programs, is
responsible for a number of special technical issues that includes data review, performance
audit inspections for permitted facilities, training district staff for field sampling and field
testing for surface water and wastewater as required by QA Rule (Chapter 160-160, F.A.C.),
and bioassessment, and provides technical support to other DEP programs in the ecological
aspects of water quality science.
During the 2011 calendar year, the district’s Water Resource and Waste Management staff
attended DEP’s SOP QA training which provided field sampling techniques, documentation
and data interpretation presented by the SAS in April 2011. In addition, the Solid Waste and
Waste Cleanup sections are utilizing the ADaPT software for laboratory data. District
biologists successfully participated in QA trainings for field sampling and field-testing
procedures used for bioassessment and environmental chemical analyses in February, April
and November 2011; performed several performance audit inspections for wastewater
treatment plant facilities and contracted laboratories; and provided QA assistance to NERRs.
The district’s Water program presented several trainings on field sampling and testing using
DEP’s SOPs, and hands-on training to several permitted facilities in 2011. Wastewater
Operator training to certified wastewater plant operators was provided by the district, which
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Florida Department of Environmental Protection, 2011 Quality Assurance Report
enables operators to earn credits toward their continuing education. All training provided by
the district to wastewater plant operators enable facilities to comply with permit and rule
requirements and ultimately, provide further protection for the environment.
In 2012, the district plans to focus more effort on data quality and training to receive accurate
data to better protect the environment, and continue conducting performance audit
inspections and QA training under the guidance of SAS.
Northwest District
DEP’s Northwest District office was involved in numerous aspects of QA during the 2011
calendar year. One of the most important projects was the completion of the Northwest
District’s QA Plan. This plan included revisions/updates from district organizational units
including the Water Facilities program (Drinking Water, Industrial Wastewater, and Domestic
Wastewater), Waste Management program (Solid Waste, Petroleum Storage Systems,
Hazardous Waste, and Waste Cleanup), and Submerged Lands Environmental Resources
program (Permitting, Enforcement/Compliance, Watershed Management, and Ecosystem
Restoration).
Additional QA activities included district staff attending QA training presented and
conducted by SAS, district QAO participating in the QA Coordinator’s Quarterly
Teleconferences, review of the proposed revisions to the QA Rule (Chapter 62-160, F.A.C.),
review of the proposed revisions to DEP’s SOPs which included sampling, field testing, and
selected biological procedures. Other issues included a data records audit of a DO Study at
Williford Springs, a field sampling performance audit with local volunteer water sampling
group (Bream Fishermen’s Association), a response to SAS’ audit findings from a surface
water sampling event conducted by district Watershed staff, corrective actions including
linking water quality meters to Water Quality Report Forms, Field Records, and
Calibration/Verification Logs, and technical assistance on a variety of QA topics/issues to
district staff.
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South District
DEP’s South District is one of six regulatory districts established in the state. The main office is
in Fort Myers with a branch office in Marathon. The function of the district is to carry out
DEP’s regulatory programs as established by statute and rule provisions. The district QA
program is designed to ensure that data collection, generation, interpretation, reporting,
evaluation and archiving is of sufficient quality to support decisions made in the district and
regulatory divisions. The district has developed a QA plan that incorporates the plans of the
regulatory divisions and also includes areas that are specific to our organization. The elements
of the QA Plan are consistent with DEP’s Quality Management Plan, QA Directive and QA
Rule (Chapter 62-160, F.A.C.).
During 2011, district staff participated in a variety of internal and external training events.
Internal trainings included a workshop for the drinking water and wastewater compliance
staff that verified the calibration of our chlorine meters and reviewed DEP SOP requirements
for documentation, use, and maintenance of the meters. District biologists participated in SCI
and Habitat Assessment training to ensure their proficiency in performing those tasks.
External training was provided to drinking water and wastewater facility operators to assist
them in applying DEP SOPs. This was done through one on one interaction and in organized
workshops.
The district conducted a number of audits during the year. These included a program
evaluation of the Lee County Health Department Drinking Water section. Part of that effort
was to document their proficiency in review of bacteriological and chemical data as well as
their data entry and corrective action procedures. An internal audit was conducted of our
Wastewater Compliance and Enforcement section to assess their procedures used for
processing incoming reports. District QAOs assisted SAS in performing a project audit on data
used for developing revised DO criteria for surface waters.
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Florida Department of Environmental Protection, 2011 Quality Assurance Report
Compliance inspections for drinking water and wastewater systems have revealed an issue
related to awareness of and compliance with DEP SOPs calibration verification,
documentation, operation and maintenance of chlorine meters. A number of the system
operators are not following the SOPs. This can result in unreliable data being submitted to us
for use in permit and rule compliance decisions. To correct this situation, we have been
including the issue as part of our inspections. We will also be covering the topic in operator
workshops and in DEP program meetings. Related technical issues will be coordinated with
SAS.
Southeast District
The mission of DEP’s QA program is to ensure that the environmental sampling and analysis
data received by the agency is appropriate and scientifically sound and that the proposed
procedures are designed to produce data that are reproducible, comparable, reliable,
representative, and defensible within known limits of precision, accuracy and sensitivity.
DEP’s QA requirements for analytical laboratories and field activities are codified in Chapter
62-160, F.A.C.
DEP’s Southeast District compiled the 2011 Annual QA Report. This report explains the
process, criteria, generation and usability of data, and staff assignments by which QA is
managed in the district. This report will serve as the initial district QA document; act as a
training tool and a reference for future reporting; and as guidance to district personnel.
The creation of this report involved numerous steps including participation in statewide QA
discussions and trainings, district program-specific meetings and field tests, review of data
and documents, utilization of QC databases, audits of locally delegated regulatory programs,
and conducting laboratory inspections. The district’s QA oversight also involves a permit
review process conducted by compliance and enforcement staff to ensure internal consistency,
proper sampling and reporting locations, utilization of appropriate methods and
requirements, and that all templates are updated and correct.
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The QA process will ultimately serve as a compliance assistance tool between the district and
regulated entities. Implementation of the district’s QA initiative will act as an outreach effort
by promoting report consistency and encouraging laboratory form standardization. District
QA oversight will be continually reported through future annual district QA Reports to SAS.
Future reports will track the QA progress across the district programs and will lead to
improvements in data management overall QA.
Each district program conducted monthly staff meetings and statewide teleconferences to
update and refine QA training. There were two specific classroom and field training events for
all district staff provided by SAS in March 2011 and a QA Rule Workshop in October 2011.
The district’s Water Facilities program held five program-specific training events and the
Ambient Water Quality Sampling program held two training events. The district’s Solid and
Hazardous Waste sections trained staff on the use of ADaPT software for data evaluation and
data/documents received or generated by each district program were routinely reviewed for
conformance with QA requirements.
The QA initiative has become a regular part of district inspection work examining sampling
locations, methods, frequencies, and equipment. Furthermore, district staff followed the QA
principles while conducting audits of 12 locally delegated regulatory programs and 4
Performance Audit Inspections of local laboratories to verify QC.
The district’s Water Facilities program continued its initiative to audit the reports of 230
facilities to correct templates or submitted data as needed. The program also implemented a
new QA step in permit processing by having compliance/enforcement staff review and edit
permits before issuance. This process improves internal language consistency, proper
sampling and reporting locations, and use of appropriate methodology and compliance
reporting requirements.
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Several common concerns were identified for all district programs, including varying levels of
experience and expertise in QA, the need for continuous training with staff turnover, better
oversight of delegated QA initiatives, and the desire for tools and ongoing discussion to
standardize QA activities. Additionally, improper reporting or poor data quality in reports
submitted by regulated entities has been an ongoing problem that has been addressed through
compliance assistance, but further outreach is needed. The ADaPT data evaluation software
could be expanded, but rule revisions may be necessary to require reports to be submitted in
the proper electronic format to allow direct data importation.
The district will continue to address QA concern areas across all programs. District programs
will promote improvements in consistency and quality of data reports by encouraging
standardized formats among laboratories. Staff will continue training regulated entities
through one-on-one compliance assistance and through group outreach efforts such as
sampling workshops. Audit cycles for delegated programs will continue with special attention
to QA programs and resulting data quality, and attention will be placed on identifying QA
training needs and implementing corrective actions.
Southwest District
DEP’s Southwest District ensures regulatory compliance with all state and federal
environmental laws.
The 2011 calendar year included a QA training conducted in March 2011 by SAS. In addition,
the district’s QAO, in conjunction with SAS staff, completed an audit of the 2010 DO Study
conducted by the TMDL program within the district’s Watershed section.
There is an ongoing effort by the district’s QAO to complete Laboratory Evaluation
Inspections (LEIs) for the Domestic and Industrial Wastewater facilities/contract laboratories
as a part of every Performance Audit Inspection (PAI). During 2011, a total of five LEIs were
conducted by the district’s QAO.
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The district’s QAO also compiled a list of signatures and initials for staff that regularly sign
official documents and/or sample in the field in order to create better traceability and
auditability as provided for by Rule 62.160.405, F.A.C.
In 2012, the district’s QA program plans to focus more on auditing field activities both
internally and externally and being able to provide technical assistance to programs in
addition to continuing QA related trainings and conducting LEIs for the Domestic and
Industrial Wastewater programs.
Given that the LEI is of paramount importance in determining whether or not the data for a
given facility is accurate, it would be extremely beneficial to develop a checklist streamlining
the process. Currently, every staff member who is responsible for conducting LEIs has their
own method/checklist of items to address. All LEI reports, therefore, end up addressing
different issues and are, at least in the experience of the district’s QAO, inconsistent with one
another.
The district’s QAO provided technical assistance on a multitude of different topics, including
data reviews and field inspections, to district staff, and external parties such as contract
laboratories. One such instance involved providing a QA/QC review of data to assist DEP’s
Southeast District with a pending PAI/LEI. This involved sending the Southeast District a
copy of a LEI checklist developed by the district’s QA.
Bioassessment Group
The Southwest District’s Bioassessment group is responsible for biological assessments,
providing training of biological assessment methods per DEP SOPs as outlined in the QA Rule
(Chapter 62-160, F.A.C.), and providing technical support to other DEP programs in the
ecological aspects of water quality science. Additionally, members of the Strategic Monitoring
Program (SMP) assist with biological field sampling and consequently QA training and audit.
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In the 2011 calendar year, the Bioassessment group provided training for field sampling and
field-testing procedures used for bioassessment; the trainee was from a consulting firm. Other
QA activities performed by the Bioassessment group included technical assistance in the form
of project and report reviews for regulatory sections and revision of the group’s SOPs and QA
manual.
In May 2011, during a routine reconnaissance in the Hillsborough river watershed, the group
noted a mistake in the ARC GIS layer regarding the location and direction of a stream; the
group found an unknown permanent stream and two unknown intermittent streams and
corrected the trajectory for the original reckoned stream.
QA Training Activities
The section conducted or participated in various QA training activities in 2011. These involved
different categories of training, as follows:
•
SAS coordinated training for field staff performing bioassessment procedures according
to DEP SOPs. Instructors were from SAS as well as other sections within DEP.
•
For the LVI, training for both the LVI field methodology and the taxonomic
identification of plants, which is needed to calculate the LVI, was conducted from April
26 - April 28, 2011 in Apopka, Florida.
•
In April 2011, the Bioassessment group also participated in a series of QA training
workshops that were developed by SAS.
•
Training for the SCI sampling procedure and the Stream Habitat Assessment HA
procedure was conducted on November 16 and 17, 2011, during the Biocriteria meeting.
The meeting was held in Sarasota as part of the routine and ongoing activities
conducted to facilitate training and discussion for biocriteria issues. Field and meetingroom activities addressed various QA topics for the bioassessment SOPs, as well as
methods development for new marine bioassessment procedures.
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Audit Activities
The section was audited by SAS for the data in the DO Study conducted by the district in 2010.
Stream Habitat Assessment proficiency testing was conducted to evaluate individuals’ ability
to score streams according to DEP’s Habitat Assessment SOP and have their scores fall within
a specified range established by the median score of experts who evaluate the same
benchmark streams. The Habitat Assessment procedure supports the interpretation of data
derived from the SCI and BioRecon assessments. During the Biocriteria meeting in November
2011, district staff assisted in the establishment of three benchmark sites for Habitat
Assessment audits and completed three of the five required assessments for the Habitat
Assessment audit.
The section also participated in team proficiency testing for the LVI field assessment procedure
at the Biocriteria meeting on April 27, 2011. Assessment teams were evaluated against the
median score established by expert teams performing DEP’s LVI SOP on the same lakes.
The Bioassessment group macroinvertebrate taxonomists participated in two inter-laboratory
taxonomy identification QC exercises coordinated by SAS’ biology QA coordinator. These
performance audits are conducted yearly to assess the ability of DEP taxonomists to correctly
identify organisms used in calculations for the SCI, BioRecon method, LCI, Shannon-Weaver
Diversity Index and other bioassessment activities such as those used for the evaluation of
wetlands and sediment biota. The most recent results were summarized in the 2010 SAS
Report, indicating that both district taxonomists achieved the level of proficiency required by
DEP’s QA Rule (Chapter 62-160, F.A.C.).
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