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EPA designated the four Sabine Neches ODMDS sites on September 10, 1987. These ODMDSs are used on an annual basis for the disposal of maintenance material from the Sabine-Neches Waterway navigational channel. A component of EPA monitoring strategies is the routine assessment of the trends at the ODMDSs based on the requirements in 40 CFR 228.13. This includes monitoring for any changes in the physical, chemical, and biological characteristics of the seafloor in and around the ODMDSs as well as any changes in the properties of the water column. The purpose of the survey was to collect data to assess performance and site conditions relative to disposal operations, including: determination of the dredged material deposit footprint relative to site boundaries; confirmation of no adverse impacts of disposal of dredged material; and confirmation of pre-disposal sediment testing.

ANAMAR was contracted by Eastern Research Group, Inc. to assist in the ODMDS monitoring surveys at the Sabine-Neches sites. The surveys were performed using the NOAA ship R/V Manta and included:

• Sediment Sampling and Analysis – collection of grab samples at designated stations using a Van Veen grab sampler inside and outside the ODMDS for physical and chemical analysis.
• Benthic Sampling – collection of benthic grab samples at designated stations using a Van Veen grab sampler within and outside the ODMDS. The samples were filtered through a sieve and the retained material and captured organisms were preserved.
• Sediment Profile Imaging (SPI) – assistance in deployment of SPI equipment to determine thickness variation and areal distribution of dredged material deposition on the seabed within and outside the site.