Progress Report
On
IAEA/RCA Project
Improving Regional Capacity for Assessment, Planning, and Response to Aquatic
Environmental Emergencies (RAS/8/095) H1 Extension
January 2007
Prepared by R. Szymczak
ANSTO Institute for Environmental Research
Project Lead Country Coordinator RAS/8/095
1. OBJECTIVES
To improve the regional capacity for the management of aquatic environmental risks and to develop
capacity in the RCA countries to assess, plan, and respond to pollution in coastal aquatic
environments.
2. BACKGROUND
Pollutant materials in the aquatic environment may be derived from natural or anthropogenic sources
and may be of radionuclide, organic or inorganic origin. These pollutants in large bodies of water can
be dispersed by active forces such as wind, tides and currents. The health and livelihoods of
populations living in coastal marine environments may be placed at risk as a result.
The growth of the mining and other industry-related activities in the Asia and the Pacific region has
increased the level of contamination in receiving waters, leading to reduced populations of the flora
and fauna through direct toxic effects, as well as increasing the concentrations of non-radioactive
pollutants in staple aquatic foods. For example, arsenic deposits have been found in the Mekong Delta
region in association with mining activities in Thailand. The accumulation of contaminants in the
water, flora, and fauna can impact local communities' sources of food supply as well as their sources
of livelihood.
The project will demonstrate and transfer technologies for the assessment of the impact of
contaminants on aquatic organisms. It will also address the problems of water-dispersed pollutants by
developing and verifying hydrodynamic models of polluted aquatic environments. The hydrodynamic
models can then be used to accurately predict the dispersion of pollutants in the aquatic environment.
They provide powerful tools for planners who can then predict if pollutants will reach and affect
specific marine resources. They can also use such models to predict the impact of changing the
hydrodynamics of an area through the construction of manmade structures.
The project originally planned for 2003–2004 is extended to 2005–2006 because all the activities
planned for 2003–2004 could not be completed as scheduled as a result of the unexpected delay in
finalizing the Exchange of Letters (EOL) between the Agency and AUSAID, which is funding this
project.
3. EXPECTED OUTCOMES
1. The expertise and knowledge transferred to the RCA Member States on the use of computer codes
for quantitative assessment of ecological risk, associated with the release of contaminants into
estuarine and coastal environments.
2. Capability of using hydrodynamic models for analysing dispersion of pollutants in aquatic
environments under local environmental conditions established.
4. PERFORMANCE INDICATORS FOR OUTCOMES
1a. Thirty-five persons trained in two regional training courses in computer modelling of dispersion of
pollutants in the aquatic environment before the end of 2006.
1b. Four expert missions implemented and 30 persons trained in ecological risk assessments before the
end of 2006.
2a. At least five of the RCA Member States will have acquired the capability of using hydrodynamic
models to predict dispersion of pollutants in aquatic environment in order to provide data needed by
planners to mitigate the effects of aquatic pollutants before the end of 2006.
5. EXPECTED PROJECT IMPACT
The project will enhance the regional and national ability to assess, plan, and respond to aquatic
environmental emergencies and therefore reduce the risks to the economic well-being and health of
communities in the region. The trans-boundary nature of the problems being addressed underlines the
need for a regional response.
6. ACTIVITIES AND ACHIEVEMENTS IN 2006
6.1 Mission to Indonesia – Validation of Hydrodynamic Model - Radiotracer Study Jakarta
Bay, Indonesia, 24 April – 6 May 2006
This mission aimed to demonstrate field techniques for the collection of data to validate and calibrate
a hydrodynamic model. It included conduct, in conjunction with the Indonesian National Nuclear
Energy Agency (BATAN) and Indonesian Institute for Sciences' Research Centre for Oceanography
(P2O-LIPI), of a series of radiotracer studies over 4 days using Tc-99m to trace the transport of
contaminated water from Jakarta canals/rivers to Jakarta Bay and the circulation of contaminated
waters in the bay. In addition physical parameters required in calibration or driving of the model
(e.g. current, water depth, salinity, temperature) were collected.
Duty stations: Centre for Research and Development of Isotopes and Radiation Technology
(P3TIR-BATAN), National Nuclear Energy Agency, Jakarta, Indonesia; Research
Centre for Oceanography (LIPI), Indonesian Institute for Sciences, Jakarta, Indonesia.
Experts:
Dr Cath Hughes and Mr Ron Szymczak (ANSTO)
Dr Will Glamore (UNSW) also attended for 5 days to assist with the radiotracer
study (under separate Hydrodynamic Modelling contract)
The key tasks/requirements of this pre-project mission were:
In consultation with the counterpart, provide advice and assistance in the conduct of a radiotracer
study in Jakarta Bay as per the report submitted to the IAEA from the planning mission
(RAS/8/095-01-01). Specifically assist BATAN in:
 Design and operation of a radioisotope tracer injection system.
 Conduct of safety and environmental assessment for the radiotracer study for use in licensing
including liaison with the Indonesian nuclear regulator, the Nuclear Energy Control Board
(BAPETEN).
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 Operation of radiation detection, Global Positioning System (GPS) and associated equipment
to monitor the tracer plume in situ.
 Field operations.
In consultation with stakeholders P2O-LIPI and the Bandung Institute of Technology (ITB) provide
advice and assistance on the collection of ancillary data including the deployment of Accoustic
Doppler Current Profiler (ADCP), Conductivity/Temperature/Depth profiler (CTD), tide, wave and
current gauges, and the development of stage discharge curves for Jakarta rivers and canals.
Determine achievable goals and scenarios for ecological risk assessment and determine data sources
and gaps.
Summary:
The field demonstration very successful. Four radiotracer injections of Tc-99m were made from 1
to 4 May 2006, one per day, using a 4 Ci Technetium 99m generator supplied by BATAN.
Injections were carried out using local fishing vessels specifically chartered for this activity and
involved the active participation of staff from the various stakeholders, BATAN, LIPI and ITB .
The dispersing tracer was tracked successfully by two boats using waterproof NaI detectors
connected to scalar ratemeters. The countrate data and GPS positions were logged into ANSTO’s
Radiotracer Data Acquisition software and the position of the detector and activity of the tracer
displayed onscreen in real time. A sample of the results from Day 2 of the demonstration is shown
below.
During the four day field demonstration P2O-LIPI installed an acoustic Doppler current profiler on
board the survey boat and collected current and depth data. In addition CTD (conductivity,
temperature and depth) profiles were collected periodically. This data will be used in
interpretation of the tracer data and to run the hydrodynamic model.
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Full details are available in the Expert Mission Report (Hughes & Szymczak, 2006).
6.2 Mission to Pakistan - Strengthening of Expertise on Assessment, Planning and Response
to Aquatic Environmental Emergencies in Pakistan, 30 October – 4 November 2006
The Isotope Ecology Research Laboratories of the Radiation and Isotope Application Division
(RIAD) at PINSTECH, Islamabad are very actively participating in the national activities of the
IAEA/RCA Project RAS/8/095 (Improving Regional Capacity for Assessment, Planning and
Response to Aquatic Environmental Emergencies). However, team members from the National
Nuclear Institute (PINSTECH) and various end-user departments (National Institute of
Oceanography-Karachi; Center of Excellence in Marine Biology-Karachi University, Maritime
Security Agency-Karachi, Marine Fisheries Department-Karachi/Gwadar, etc.) have certain weak
areas with respect to technical/theoretical knowledge in aquatic risk assessment modelling,
conduct of radiotracer validation experiments, enhanced sampling and analysis protocols and
bioaccumulation of toxic metals by aquatic organisms with special reference to laboratory
aquarium experiments (via water and sediments). Accordingly, in the six monthly progress report
(Period Jan-June, 2006) for the RAS/8/095, the Pakistan National Coordinator of the RAS/8/095
Project mentioned his request to the RCA/IAEA for provision of AQUARISK Model and experts
for one week training event on assessment, planning and response to aquatic environmental
emergencies in Pakistan for the benefit of the nuclear institute and the end-user institutions.
Duty station: Pakistan Institute of Nuclear Science and Technology (PINSTECH) Islamabad,
Pakistan
Experts:
Mr Ron Szymczak (ANSTO), Mr John Twining (ANSTO) and Dr Michel Warnau
(IAEA-MEL)
The key tasks/requirements of this pre-project mission were
(i)
Provision of AQUARISK Computer Modelling Software Complete Package to
RIAD/PINSTECH (through IAEA/RCA Project Funds for RAS/8/095) for aquatic
risk assessment evaluations.
(ii) Installation, demonstration and training of AQUARISK Modelling Software Package.
(iii) Advice on up-gradation of Radioecology Laboratory and bioaccumulation
experimentation at the Radioecology Laboratory, PINSTECH, Islamabad.
(iv) Lecturing at IAEA/RCA sponsored “National Workshop on Assessment, Planning and
Response to Aquatic Environmental Emergencies in Pakistan” to be held in
Islamabad.
(v) Field demonstrations for aquatic risk assessment in Rawal Lake/Khan Pur Lake/
associated tributaries.
Summary:
Interest for the National Workshop was totally over whelming. Although approximately 20-30
delegates were anticipated, by the day prior to the National Workshop, 64 delegates had been
accepted for registration. Delegates came from a great variety of institutes and agencies, having
interest in a diverse number of environments (mountains, forest, saltmarsh, mangrove, freshwater,
marine). As well as specific interest from delegates associated with aquatic and marine issues,
great interest was expressed by delegates working in alpine conservation (World Wildlife Fund –
WWF) and climate change issues (Global Change Impact Studies Centre, Pakistan). A list of
beneficiary and end-user organisations is provided in Annex 3.
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The facilities provided by PINSTECH and COMSATS were excellent for conducting the
AQUARISK training and National Workshop. 22 computer were provided (in anticipation of
approx. 20-30 delegates), around which 64 delegates were divided into groups to each get
practical experience in running the ecological risk assessment modelling code.
The field tracer injection demonstration was successfully conduct with the assistance of the
Pakistan Navy, Naval Headquarters in Islamabad by provision of several small boats on Lake
Rawal to function for demonstration and observation vessels. The Rhodomine dye was injected in
a tributary of Lake Rawal and followed for several hundred meters by collection of water samples
and fluorescence analysis using the detector provided. Proir to the field demonstration, briefing
lectures were presented by Dr Qureshi (PINSTECH) and Mr Szymczak (ANSTO) on theory and
applications of radiotracers and the fluorescent dye. Following the tracer activity Dr Qureshi and
Mr Szymczak discussed the results obtained and how they may be applied to hydrological and
contaminant transport studies.
The desired outcomes of the mission were well achieved where PINSTECH staff and National
Workshop delegates acquired an enhanced theoretical knowledge of the behaviour of
contaminants in aquatic systems and radiotracer applications for geochemical, hydrological and
bioaccumulation studies to evaluate the environmental fate of contaminants in aquatic systems.
The session on ecological risk assessment and demonstration of AQUARISK code applications
was well received, providing a valuable introduction to this model and information on data
requirements required for future risk assessment activities.
The recruited experts functioned very well together as a team, displaying a high level of efficiency
and integrity with a strong commitment to achieve the outcomes of the mission. Their
complementary set of expertises proved to be an excellent resource, both for the delivery of
lectures, training and field demonstrations and in provision of ad hoc advice and information on
associated issues particular to their own activities.
Full details are available in the Expert Mission Report (Szymczak & Twining, 2007).
6.3 Regional Training Course on Combining Contaminant Transport and Ecological Risk
Assessment Models for Response to Environmental Emergencies, Qingdao and Haikou,
China, 5-13 December 2006
The course provided specific training in the theoretical background, practical applications and
interpretation of state-of-the-art probabilistic ecological risk assessment modelling
(AQUARISK) for radionuclides and non-radioactive contaminants. It brought together the
various theoretical and practical training and demonstration experiment activities previously
undertaken in RAS/8/095 and represents a state-of-the-art combination of contaminant transport
modelling with biological contaminant dose response for “best world practice” ecological risk
analysis.
The course composed of a series of lectures, laboratory exercises and demonstrations of
probabilistic ecological risk assessment modelling and contaminant transport modelling. Each
participating country was provided with printed guidelines and lectures notes. Participants were
assessed on their acquired knowledge on the completion of the course. As part of the training
course, participants also attended the QingDao Symposium on Marine Pollution Monitoring and
Assessment (Qingdao 10-11 Dec) and participated in the PEMSEA East Asian Seas (EAS)
Congress 2006 (12-13 Dec), where the results of a contaminant transport model for Jakarta Bay,
developed within the Project, were presented and used as an example scenario for application of
AQUARISK. Outcomes of the Regional Project and National Project activities were presented.
Anticipated outputs were that the participants were expected to achieve:
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- an enhanced knowledge of the behaviour of contaminants in aquatic systems;
- an enhanced knowledge of the development and application of water quality criteria for
contaminants in aquatic systems, and;
- practical experience in the application of probabilistic ecological risk assessment using the
AQUARISK software.
Following this training the participants will be expected to undertake a series of defined
activities to disseminate information in their own countries in association with their National
Project Team.
Summary:
A primary outcome of this Project has been the development and transfer to member States of
an experimentally-field-validated dilution and dispersion model which would generate
contaminant concentrations downfield from a specified source. This could then be used as input
to a quantitative, probabilistic, ecological risk assessment, based on regionally relevant doseresponse data and filtered to reflect specific environmental foci. This demonstration was
comprehensively successful. The acquisition and reformatting of the ASEAN database was an
unplanned bonus and made the overall Project deliverables even more beneficial to the
participating RCA Member States.
The participants demonstrated a keen interest in the computer codes presented and asked many
questions which showed that they had acquired a substantial comprehension of the applications.
This was recognised by the demonstrators when devising detailed questions to test the depth of
knowledge and use of the codes. All participants passed the test well and appeared keen to use
the tools in future. The participants selected to attend the meeting were assessed as generally
being very well suited for this RTC.
In addition to their competence, the participants interacted very well and this should facilitate
continuing networking between them. Member States should encourage and facilitate ongoing
contact between the participants. Several of the participants were keen to discuss new projects
and it was suggested that they should develop their proposals more fully between national
institutes with a view to review by the experts prior to submission of a concept document to the
National RCA/IAEA Representatives for consideration.
The participants were well selected and all took on the training with considerable enthusiasm.
Feedback from them showed that they considered the course content to be of a high calibre and
the pace of the training programme to be appropriate. The desired outcomes of the course were
achieved and all participants acquired an enhanced knowledge of the behaviour of contaminants
in aquatic systems and practical experience in the application and interpretation of nuclear
techniques for evaluating bioaccumulation and environmental fate of contaminants in aquatic
systems. The session on ecological risk assessment and demonstration of AQUARISK code
applications was well received, providing a valuable introduction to this model and information on
data requirements required for future project activities.
The complementary set of expertises of the recruited lecturers proved to be an excellent resource
for the participants, both for the delivery of lectures, demonstrations, practical exercises and in
provision of ad hoc advice and information on associated issues particular to their own activities.
During the training course all participants expressed their appreciation of the knowledge of the
speakers, the value of the materials being presented and relevance to their needs. Participants
were solicited for specific feedback on the venue, modelling exercises, course materials, visual
aids, the ability of speakers to gain attention, speakers’ knowledge of the subjects, overall
impressions and comments on individual lecture topics (see Annex 9). Feedback from them
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ranked various aspects of the course to be very good to excellent. The training topics selected
were also rated by them as very good to excellent.
Attendance of the Qingdao Marine Pollution Symposium and PEMSEA East Asian Seas
Congress (a) proved to be very beneficial for participants, in being delivered detailed
presentations on several regional and international activities as well as gaining valuable
experience in delivery of presentations at this prestigious level; and (b) provided valuable
exposure for RCA Project activities. A significant number of delegates showed a great deal of
interest in our activities and identified several potential future interactions, including requests
for further dissemination of our developed technologies and ecological risk analysis strategies
via similar training courses and indications for specific collaborative studies
A high degree of network development was apparent from these activities (see list in Annex 11).
The training which had been discussed and applied during the previous week was pertinent to
many of the problems and issues discussed at the conference. Hence, we were regularly able to
contribute worthwhile comments across the week and we have had discussions with several
local and international experts and research groups with whom common interests were held and
with whom future collaboration should be considered. These regional and international network
liaisons represent a valuable outcome for the RCA Project and should contribute to
sustainability and regional diffusion of nuclear and isotopic technologies.
An indication of the increasing importance of these marine pollution studies and the significant
contribution that nuclear techniques can make to the solution of such problems, China has
allocated very significant funds through the State Oceanographic Administration for the
purchase of nuclear instrumentation to enhance and extend their capabilities for ocean
monitoring and pollution studies
Full details are available in the Regional Training Course Report (Szymczak, Twining &
Hughes, 2007).
6.4 Member State Activities and Achievements – Country Reports June 2006
6.4.1
Indonesia (Annex 1)
Main Achievements:
Demonstration of the project from 24 April to 6 May 2006 in Jakarta Bay for implementing the
RAS/8/095 project. This activity has been assisted by 3 experts, i.e; Mr. Ron Szymczak and Ms.
Cath Hughes from Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation (ANSTO),
Australia and Mr. William Glamore from Water Research Laboratory, University of New South
Wales, Australia. National collaboration with stakeholders are with Bandung Institute of
Technology (ITB) and Research Center for Oceanography (P2O-LIPI).
This project has there main activities:
1. Develop hydrodynamic model of pollutants dispersion in Jakarta Bay using initial data of
Jakarta Bay.
2. Radiotracer experiment for validation of hydrodynamic model
Validating of hydrodynamic model was done in Muara Karang, Jakarta Bay using radioisotope
Tc-99m. There were 4 times injections and tracings of radioisotope Tc-99m to cover the area of
the experiment. Instead of radiotracing experiment, the physical parameters of Jakarta Bay have
also measured in collaboration with P2O-LIPI. Some parameters were measured for 1 month
and the others were measured during the radiotracing experiment.
7
3. Develop AQUARISK software using specific data of water quality and ecotoxicology of
Jakarta Bay
Data of water quality of Jakarta Bay have been supported by Jakarta Metropolitan
Environmental Management Agency. AQUARISK software will be developed by P2O-LIPI and
BATAN using water quality and ecotoxicology data of Jakarta Bay.
6.4.2
Pakistan (Annex 2)
On site monitoring of marine pollution along coastal areas of Karachi, Sonmaini and
Gadani, was completed. This included physiochemical and bacteriological (Coliform)
analysis of seawater samples at these location during low and high tidal conditions.
Harmful Phytoplanktons were identified in coastal waters of Karachi.
Trace element analysis and selective radionuclide analysis of water/sediment and
biota samples is still in progress.
A mussel watch programme has been initiated. In the laboratory, aquarium
experiments have been conducted to study the bioaccumulation/up-take rates of metal
radiotracers (137Cs, 65Zn, 51Cr and 56Cd) by green mussels (Perna Viridis) at varied
environmental conditions w.r.t. salinity and temperature.
6.4.3
Philippines (Annex 3)
The activities of these project are incorporated in the activities of the Partnerships for
Environmental Management of the Seas of EastAsia (PEMSEA) of the International Maritime
Organization and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR). The PNRI is
the chair of an interagency group that formulated the integrated monitoring program for Manila
Bay. Membership in this group includes the University of the Philippines and other government
agencies with mandates covering the use of Manila bay for fishing and other economic
activities.
Manila Bay is a complex system in that the coastline is shared by five political units; rivers that
pass through large industrial and agricultural areas drain into Manila Bay; the water provides
livelihood and food to a large number of people; international and domestic ports are in the bay;
and about a fourth of the country’s population is within its watershed.
Three reports covering the pilot monitoring activities of PNRI were prepared and accepted by
IMO-PEMSEA-DENR:
 Sombrito E.Z., L.A. Del Castillo and V.S.Calix “Elemental Analysis of Manila Bay
Sediments” report submitted for the Pilot Study Report of the TWG Environmental
Monitoring Program for Manila Bay under the Manila Bay Environmental Management
Program of DENR-IMO-PEMSEA.

Sombrito E.Z., A. dM. Bulos, E.J.Sta. Maria and R.U.Olivares “137Cs and 210Pb
Distribution in Manila Bay Sediment” report submitted for the Pilot Study Report of the
TWG Environmental Monitoring Program for Manila Bay under the Manila Bay
Environmental Management Program of DENR-IMO-PEMSEA

Sombrito, E. , M.V. Honrado and M. dC. Tangona “Tributyl Tin Contamination in
Mussel and Marine Sediment in Manila Bay” report submitted for the Pilot Study Report
of the TWG Environmental Monitoring Program for Manila Bay under the Manila Bay
Environmental Management Program of DENR-IMO-PEMSEA
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The analyses performed on the sediment samples gave an indication of areas that may be at
risk with respect to the following:
a. Trace element
b. Tributyl tin contaminations
c. Pesticide contamination (Cs-137 as indicator of eroded soils from agriultural area)
d. High sediment load (Pb-210 analysis)
Under the project “Application of Nuclear Techniques to Address Specific Harmful Algal
Bloom Concerns: Development and Application of Predicting , Controlling and Mitigating
(PCM) Techniques for Harmful Algal Bloom (HABs) in Selected Mariculture Sites in the
Philippines”co- funded by the Department of Science and Technology and being implemented
by the University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute (MSI) and National Institute of
Geological Sciences, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources and the PNRI, a hydrodynamic
model of Malampaya Sound in Palawan, Philippines, was prepared by the MSI (Dr, Cesar
Villanoy and associates) . Aquatic emergency arising from harmful algal bloom in the area can
be assisted by modelling the hydrodynamic behaviour in the area. Sediment cores from the area
were also analyzed for HAB cyst and dated using Pb-210 method. These data can be useful in
assessing the potential risk of pyrodinium bloom in the area.
Nuclear and isotopic techniques were used in trace element, Cs137 and Pb-210 analyses.
The use of computer codes for quantitative assessment of ecological risk associated with the
release of contaminants into estuarine and coastal environments will have to implemented.
6.4.4
Thailand (Annex 4)
Main Achievements:
Thaile Noi
In the wet season, Thale Noi was governed mostly by acid water (pH<7.0). In
addition, SS and COD were notably high, particularly in the upper part of the basin.
This can be attributed to high water discharge from Kuan Kreng marsh land where soil
is acid and sediment and organic matter are exceptionally high.
Particulate Phosphorus (P) makes up a largest portion of phosphorus pool
(62%).This results, in part, from some phosphate prone to adhere to particles, whereas,
nitrogen pool is dominant by dissolved organic N (65%). Dissolved inorganic N (DIN)
accounts only 2% which nitrate is a major component (mean = 7.6 uM). Biologically
useful P (mean = 0.28 uM) is substantially less than DIN (mean = 8.7 uM) However, its
geographical pattern of variation resembles that of DIN. As a consequence, N: P ratio of
inorganic nutrients greatly deviates from the Redfield ratio (16:1), the ratio which
inorganic nutrients are normally used by phytoplankton and released from
mineralization of organic matter. This implies that Thale Noi is N enrichment
ecosystem, and P is a limiting factor for phytoplankton production.
Thale Noi is classified is as eutrophication in terms of algal biomass which
chlorophyll a ( chl-a) being remarkably high ( range = 3.5 -14.0 ug/l, mean = 44 ug/l) .
Visual inspection reveals that spatial distribution of chl-a is similar to that nutrients.
Phytoplankton production in Thale Noi is controlled in part by available P, as is evident
from a significantly positive between chl-a and total P ( r = 0.45, p<0.1,n = 55) . For
DIN , only ammonia has significantly positively correlate with regenerated nitrogen as a
primary source for their growth. This, together with limitation of available P, leads to
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nitrate remaining unconsumed, as can be seen from residual nitrate which is relatively
high.
Nakorn Nayok River
Ongkharak Nuclear Research Center is located at latitude 14o 07/N longitude 101o
02 E, about 60 km northeast of Bangkok. The total area of the site is 505,600 m2.
/
Nakorn Nayok River is located about 1 km west from ONRC. It collects the flow
from Khaokhieo and Khaoyai. The flow rate of this river is around 300 m3 /s in the
rainy season and much less in the summer. However, the Nayok dam, which is located
on Nakhon Nayok River northeast of the site, was built for irrigation water supply and
flood control. Therefore, the flow rate near the site is less than that shown in above
reference.
The study of the preliminary survey of the ecology system around the site that was
conducted in 1999 revealed;
Most land uses within 10 km around the ONRC site was predominantly
abandoned area (31.06-24.68%), active paddy (32.31-29.7%), inactive paddy (26.3212.51 %) and others. Soil around the site was considerably homogeneous and most was
clay. Soil was very acidic, which elevated dissolved Al (plant toxic) concentration in
soil and limited nutrient bioavailability such as P. In contrast, the concentration of
some nutrient such as Cu was remarkably high (Cu=116 ppm) in some stations. E.C.
(Electric conductivity) at some station was high (E.C. = 3.08-3.78 and 1.041-1.389
mil.mol/cm, normal= 0.05-0.4 mil.mol/cm). However, the E.C. such this high is still
safe for shallow roots plant such as rice. The organic carbon content was moderate and
decrease with depth. Ca, Mg, Na, and K founded were moderate amount but still
sufficient for plant.
The maximum recorded rainfall during ten years (1996-1986) was 30.1mm in
March 1991.
Inflow rate to the river ranged -15-26 m3/s in dry season and 43-53 m3/s in rainy
season Outflow ranged 35-48 m3/s in dry season and 58-65 m3/s in rainy season. Nakorn
Nayok River water is classified as class 3 for Surface Water Quality Standards
(Notification of the National Environmental Board, No. 7, 1994). An investigation in
1999 indicated that the water quality in general was acceptable, that was the values of
most parameters were within the Surface Water Quality Standards, that was: BOD = 1-3
mg/l, COD = 4-4.9 mg/l, SS = 2-245 mg/l, TDS = 20-235 mg/l, Te = 0-0.0146 mg/l, Mo
= 0-0.356 mg/l, K= 0.929-9.486 mg/l ,Ca= 0.076-24.452 mg/l, DO = 0.2-7.5 mg/l, pH =
3.8-7.3 , Conductivity = 40-4500 mil.mol/l, Salinity = 0-2.5 ppt, and T = 26-32oC.
Phytoplankton group of Cyanophyta especially Oscillatoria limnetica was found most
in river water. Zooplankton, Anthropod and Rotifera sp was the most dominant species.
Benthic animals, tubicids, crustaceans, insect larvae and mollusk found in the river with
crustaceans; river shrimp, Palaemonidae family was the most abundance and found at
every stations.
Radiological monitoring around the site was summarized in Table 1:
Table1: Radioactivity baseline of environmental sample from the vicinity of ONRC construction site; at
pre-construction period (1997-1999).
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Sample
Gross
alpha1
Gross beta 1
40K 1
137Cs 1
90Sr 2
226Ra 2
Surface water
0.037
0.145
<3.301
<0.195
5.073
1.105
Ground/underground
water
0.042
0.135
<3.301
<0.195
3.131
3.305
Aquatic
Fish)
animal
(
2.303
29.050
30.770
0.030
ND
0.012
Aquatic animal
river shrimp)
(
18.071
82.398
51.780
<0.195
ND
0.767
Aquatic
edible)
(
4.117
128.837
56.024
0.031
ND
0.071
Aquatic plant ( not
edible)
2.813
65.637
37.903
0.087
ND
0.031
Vegetables
3.075
57.961
31.920
0.079
ND
0.135
Fruit( Banana)
3.786
92.702
76.424
0.050
ND
0.008
Milled
rice
( polished)
0.517
37.005
12.530
0.081
ND
ND
Under-milled
(
home-pounded) rice
2.382
83.272
52.740
0.107
ND
ND
Ricegrass/ paragrass
2.208
170.703
168.065
0.136
ND
0.965
plant
1= Unit in Bq/l or Bq/kg
2= Unit in mBq/l or mBq/kg
ND= Not detectable
6.5 Member State Activities and Achievements – Country Reports December 2006
Unofficial Country Reports were presented by participants at the China RTC in December 2006.
These are provided, in full, in the Regional Training Course Report in Annex 10.
In general, RCA Member States demonstrated a significant acceptance of the nuclear and isotopic
technologies transferred in this project. Particular enhancements of National capabilities were
evident in the understanding of contaminant behaviour in aquatic systems, radiological
contaminant analyses, and bioaccumulation/radioecology studies. In the final activitiy (China
RTC), all participants from the various Member States were able to successfully operate and apply
contaminant transport model and ecological risk assessment model codes, which is a significantly
positive overall outcome for the project.
7. SCHEDULE FOR FUTURE PROJECT ACTIVITIES
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The Jakarta Bay model is still to be deliver to stakeholders in Indonesia and this is being planned for
early 2007. A request for an expert mission to Thailand for training in hydrodynamic modelling was
not able to be completed in 2006 due to unavailability of specialist experts and if funding was still
available, this could be satisfied in 2007.
A great deal of interest was developed in the application of AQUARISK Model and its combination
with the Contaminant Transport Model following the very successful RTC and the follow up events at
the Qingdao Symposium on Marine Pollution Monitoring and Assessment and the PEMSEA East
Asian Seas Congress. Several of the participating countries expressed interest is expert assistance for
application of this strategy to their own study situations. This interest may be able to be satisfied
during the new RCA project on marine pollution. Unfortunately IAEA lead time requirements for
implementation of expert missions under this project would not be compatible with the completion of
the project by the end of the 2006/07 FY as required by AusAID.
8. CONSTRAINTS ON PROJECT IMPLEMENTATIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The deterioration in the security situation in parts of the Asia Pacific region, particularly following
bombings and other civil unrest since 2003 has impacted on the timing and location of some activities.
Travel advisory warnings by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has advised
Australian travellers to defer all unnecessary travel to some countries or specific areas in a country.
Such advice has caused difficulties for travel by Australian experts and for the implementation of the
planned partnering arrangement with some RCA Member States. Future security considerations may
also have implications on the location and timing of RCA activities. However maintaining partnering
arrangements is a high priority ad should be adhered to as long as practicable.
Constraints reported by RCA Member States are summaries below:
8.1 Indonesia
Conduct of modern radiotracer studies of sediment or contaminant transport requires depends
on good data acquisition and positioning systems that allow for continuous collection, logging
and display of data on a computer screen. ANSTO has provided a copy of their data acquisition
software to BATAN and we can assist in modifying the inputs to suit BATAN equipment if
requested. However, BATAN’s environmental radiotracing capability is severely limited by the
age and condition of their detection system, and by the lack of modern GPS systems.
During the April 2006 mission we identified that BATAN’s existing detector connections are no
longer waterproof which prevents use in marine applications. Their scalar ratemeters are
analogue systems, and whilst BATAN have rigged up a analogue to digital conversion circuit to
allow logging to a computer, this is not necessarily a long term solution. In addition they do not
have a GPS that can be logged continuously by computer. For this project the provision of an
appropriate GPS system has already been identified in the budget and can be arranged by
ANSTO. However, repair or replacement of the existing detectors and provision of a new
digital scalar ratemeter is beyond the budget of the project.
8.2 Pakistan



Feasibility of organizing studies related to sediment erosion in Makran coastline
could not initiated due to bad conditions in the area.
Establishment of AQUARISK Modelling Facilities in Pakistan are subject to
provision of the model by ANSTO-Australia through the IAEA/RCA .
The project relies on the successful implementation of other projects being funded by
other international and local agencies. Thus it has to follow the timetable and
activities of these projects
12
8.3 Philippines

The project relies on the successful implementation of other projects being funded by
other international and local agencies. Thus it has to follow the timetable and
activities of these projects
8.4 Thailand

Delay of funded by the government due to the re-organization of the institute.

Change of climate i.e. storm and heavy rain caused sampling delayed.

Delay of assistances from IAEA.
9. ASSESSMENT OF PERFORMANCE INDICATORS FOR OUTCOMES
1a. Thirty-five persons trained in two regional training courses in computer modelling of dispersion of
pollutants in the aquatic environment before the end of 2006.
Aspects of computer modelling of pollutants in the aquatic environment were covered in RTCs in
Thailand (2005 – 18 participants) and more comprehensively in China (2006 – 22 participants). It is
not feasible to provide complete training in model development under the auspices of this project, as
this requires lengthy university-level studies, however this project was able to provide training in
model requirements, execution and application (see 2a below.
1b. Four expert missions implemented and 30 persons trained in ecological risk assessments before the
end of 2006.
Expert missions were undertaken in January 2005 (Thailand), September 2005 (Indonesia), September
2005 (Thailand), April/May 2006 (Indonesia), October/November 2006 (Pakistan) and December
2006 (China).
During the Thailand RTC (Sept 2005) 18 participants, and Pakistan Mission (Oct/Nov 2006) 64
participants were introduced to the AQUARISK Ecological Risk Assessment modelling code. In the
Pakistan Mission (Oct/Nov 2006) 3 staff members from PINSTECH, and in the China RTC (Dec
2006) 22 participants received detailed training in use of the code and were assessed to be competent
in its operation and application.
2a. At least five of the RCA Member States will have acquired the capability of using hydrodynamic
models to predict dispersion of pollutants in aquatic environment in order to provide data needed by
planners to mitigate the effects of aquatic pollutants before the end of 2006.
In the China RTC (Dec 2006) 22 participants received detailed training in use of the hydrodynamic
contaminant transport code (RMA 11) and were assessed to be competent in its operation and
application. These participants also demonstrated the ability to input the contaminant distribution
outputs of the RMA 11 model to a quantitative, probabilistic, ecological risk assessment using
AQUARISK, based on regionally relevant dose-response data and filtered to reflect specific
environmental foci.
10. CONCLUSIONS
A primary objective of this Project has been to improve regional capacity for assessment, planning,
and response to aquatic environmental emergencies via the development and demonstration of, and
provision of training in the use of an experimentally-field-validated dilution and dispersion model
which would generate contaminant concentrations downfield from a specified source. This could then
be used as input to a quantitative, probabilistic, ecological risk assessment, based on regionally
13
relevant dose-response data and filtered to reflect specific environmental foci. This demonstration was
comprehensively successful. The acquisition and reformatting of the ASEAN database was an
unplanned bonus and made the overall Project deliverables even more beneficial to the participating
RCA Member States.
.
Activity participants demonstrated a keen interest in the computer codes presented and asked many
questions which showed that they had acquired a substantial comprehension of the applications. This
was recognised by the demonstrators when devising detailed questions to test the depth of knowledge
and use of the codes. All participants passed the test well and appeared keen to use the tools in future.
The participants selected to attend the meeting were assessed as generally being very well suited for
this RTC.
In addition to their competence, the participants interacted very well and this should facilitate
continuing networking between them. Member States should encourage and facilitate ongoing contact
between the participants. Several of the participants were keen to discuss new projects and it was
suggested that they should develop their proposals more fully between national institutes with a view
to review by the experts prior to submission of a concept document to the National RCA/IAEA
Representatives for consideration.
The complementary set of expertises of the recruited lecturers’ teams proved to be an excellent resource
for the participants, both for the delivery of lectures, demonstrations, practical exercises and in provision
of ad hoc advice and information on associated issues particular to their own activities.
Attendance of the Qingdao Marine Pollution Symposium and PEMSEA East Asian Seas Congress (a)
proved to be very beneficial for participants, in being delivered detailed presentations on several
regional and international activities as well as gaining valuable experience in delivery of presentations
at this prestigious level; and (b) provided valuable exposure for RCA Project activities. A significant
number of delegates showed a great deal of interest in our activities and identified several potential
future interactions, including requests for further dissemination of our developed technologies and
ecological risk analysis strategies via similar training courses and indications for specific collaborative
studies
A high degree of network development was apparent from these activities. These regional and
international network liaisons represent a valuable outcome for the RCA Project and should contribute
to sustainability and regional diffusion of nuclear and isotopic technologies.
The deterioration in the security situation in parts of the Asia Pacific region, particularly following
bombings and other civil unrest since 2003 has impacted on the timing and location of some activities.
Travel advisory warnings by the Australian Department of Foreign Affairs and Trade has advised
Australian travellers to defer all unnecessary travel to some countries or specific areas in a country.
Such advice has caused difficulties for travel by Australian experts and for the implementation of the
planned partnering arrangement with some RCA Member States. Future security considerations may
also have implications on the location and timing of RCA activities. However maintaining partnering
arrangements is a high priority and should be adhered to as long as practicable.
11. RECOMMENDATIONS
To the IAEA


To support and encourage the RCA Member States in acquiring the full benefits from the
inputs of training and expertise supplied through this project.
Provide licensed AQUARISK model packages for Member States not already in possession of
this code.
14
To RCA Member States




To proactively engage the broader marine pollution community and seek cooperative ventures
to utilise and exploit their interest in the application of the techniques and skill acquired from
this project.
To support the training of younger scientists in established facilities in the region for extended
training in the technologies promoted in this project and where possible consider the use of the
IAEA Fellowship and Scientific Visits programme to facilitate the support.
To encourage and facilitate ongoing contact between the RTC participants and TCDC
interactions.
To use the results of this project to prepare a “Success Story” for distribution through the RCA
Regional Office and other appropriate mechanisms.
15
ANNEX 1
REGIONAL COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT (RCA)
2005/2006
FIRST PROGRESS REPORT- June 2006
1. Administrative information
1.1 Member State: INDONESIA
1.2 Project Title and Number: REGIONAL CAPACITY FOR ASSESSMENT,
PLANNING AND RESPONDING TO AQUATIC ENVIRONMETAL
EMERGENCIES, RAS/8/095
1.3 National Project Coordinator: ALI ARMAN LUBIS
2. Regional Activities
Participation in Regional Events
Title of the Event
Participant/s
IAEA/RCA RTC on Application of Ali Arman Lubis
Nuclear Techniques to Studies of
Bioaccumulation and Contaminant Yulizon Menry
Analyses for the Development of Susilaningsih Lestari
Emergency Response Strategies for
Aquatic
Environments
(5-16
September 2005), Thailand
Member of the
Project Team
Yes
Yes
No
-
-
Yes/No
-
-
Yes/No
a) Are there any constraints faced in nominating members of the National Project Team
for participation in regional events?
No
b) Have the participants of the Regional Training Courses shared the knowledge gained
with other member of the project team?
Yes
c) Is the training received relevant to the project activities?
Yes, particularly in the bioaccumulation, it is very useful to develop AQUARISK
software for risk assessment with the site specific data.
d) Any other comments on regional events.
16
3. Status of Implementing the National Work Plan
Please attach a copy of the National Work Plan for implementing this project, and indicate
the status of implementation of the Work plan. A simple format for the Work Plan is given
below.
Activity
Activity
2005
2006
Status
No
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
4. Main achievements
Please list the main achievements of the project during the period January- June 2006.
If you are reporting on the past achievements for continuity, please indicate when they were
achieved.
Demonstration of the project from 24 April to 6 May 2006 in Jakarta Bay for implementing
the RAS/8/095 project. This activity has been assisted by 3 experts, i.e; Mr. Ron Szymczak
and Ms. Cath Hughes from Australian Nuclear Science and Technology Organisation
(ANSTO), Australia and Mr. William Glamore from Water Research Laboratory, University
of New South Wales, Australia. National collaboration with stakeholders are with Bandung
Institute of Technology (ITB) and Research Center for Oceanography (P2O-LIPI).
This project has there main activities:
4. Develop hydrodynamic model of pollutants dispersion in Jakarta Bay using initial data
of Jakarta Bay.
5. Radiotracer experiment for validation of hydrodynamic model
Validating of hydrodynamic model was done in Muara Karang, Jakarta Bay using
radioisotope Tc-99m. There were 4 times injections and tracings of radioisotope
Tc-99m to cover the area of the experiment. Instead of radiotracing experiment,
the physical parameters of Jakarta Bay have also measured in collaboration with
P2O-LIPI. Some parameters were measured for 1 month and the others were
measured during the radiotracing experiment.
6. Develop AQUARISK software using specific data of water quality and ecotoxicology
of Jakarta Bay
Data of water quality of Jakarta Bay have been supported by Jakarta Metropolitan
Environmental Management Agency. AQUARISK software will be developed by
P2O-LIPI and BATAN using water quality and ecotoxicology data of Jakarta Bay.
5. Constraints for successful implementation of the project.
6. Any additional information that could be relevant .
17
ANNEX 2
REGIONAL COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT (RCA)
2006
PROGRESS REPORT
Jan - June 2006
1. Administrative information
1.1 Member State:
PAKISTAN
1.2 Project Title and Number:
IAEA/RCA Project (RAS/8/095)
“Improving Regional Capacity for Assessment, Planning
and Response to Aquatic Environmental Emergencies”
1.3 National Project Coordinator:
Riffat Mahmood Qureshi
Deputy Chief Scientist (DCS)
Head
Radiation and Isotope Application Division
Pakistan Institute of Nuclear Science and Technology
Pakistan Atomic Energy Commission
P.O. Nilore, Islamabad, Pakistan.
Phone: 92-51-2207228, Fax No. 92-51-9290275
E-mail: <[email protected]>
2.0 Regional Activities
Participation in Regional Events
Title of the Event
IAEA/RCA Regional Training Course
on Application of Nuclear Techniques
to Studies of Bioaccumulation and
Contamination Analyses for the
Development
of
Emergencies
Response Strategies for Aquatic
Environments” 5-16 September 2005
in Bangkok, Thailand
NIL
Participant/s
One participant
namely, Mr.
Abdul Jabbar
attended the
RTC, Thailand
Member of the Project
Team
Yes
The participant is a member
of the National Project
Team
e) Are there any constraints faced in nominating members of the National Project Team
for participation in regional events?
No
f) Have the participants of the Regional Training Courses shared the knowledge gained
with other member of the project team?
Yes
g) Is the training received relevant to the project activities?
18
N.A.
h) Any other comments on regional events.
Nil
3. Status of Implementing the National work Plan
Please attach a copy of National work plan for implementing this project, and indicate the
status of implementation of work plan. A simple format for the work plan is given below.
Sr#
Activity
2005
Q1
1.
2.
3.
4.
5.
6.
7.
8.
Nomination of National
Project Coordinator (NPC)
Identification of National
Project Team (NPT)
Strengthening of working
relationship with end-user
Enhancement of end-user
awareness
Applied Research &
Development Work
In-kind support for Project
Activities
On site monitoring of
marine pollution along
coastal areas and
collection of water/
sediment sampling
Capability Enhancement of
Ecological Research
Group in terms of :
(i) Manpower training
for national nuclear
institute and end-user
institutions
(ii) Field sampling and insitu analysis
Equipment
Q2
2006
Q3
Q4
Q1
Q2
Q3
Status
Q4

Completed

Completed























Continued





Continued
As per requirement
of applied projects
Is being provided
Completed


Requested from
IAEA.
Radiotracers for
routine use are
being produced at
PINSTECH.
IAEA is requested
to provide experts
for an NTC event
tentatively in
October 2006
9.
Radionuclide and chemical
analysis
10. HAB Cyst analysis and
Toxin Quantification
11. Establishment of
AQUARISK Modelling

19




In progress




In progress


Subject to
provision of
Facilities at national
nuclear institute
Model/Code from
ANSTO/Australia
or IAEA-MELMonaco
(RIAD-PINSTECH )

12. Participation in regional
training Courses/
Workshops
13. Feasibility of organizing
radiotracer studies related
to sediment erosion in
Makran coastline
14. Interpretation of acquired
chemical, biological and
isotopic data / Compilation
of Report
15. Participation in final
project meeting
4.





Subject to
organization by
RCA/IAEA
To be initiated with
the help of PLCC
and IAEA Experts
In progress

Also PEMSEA
Conference, China
Main Achievements:
Please list the main achievements of the project during the period Jan-June 2006. If you
are reporting on the past achievements for continuity, please indicate when they were
achieved.

On site monitoring of marine pollution along coastal areas of Karachi,
Sonmaini and Gadani, was completed. This included physiochemical and
bacteriological (Coliform) analysis of seawater samples at these location
during low and high tidal conditions.

Harmful Phytoplanktons were identified in coastal waters of Karachi.

Trace element
analysis and selective radionuclide analysis of
water/sediment and biota samples is still in progress.

A mussel watch programme has been initiated. In the laboratory,
aquarium experiments have been conducted to study the
bioaccumulation/up-take rates of metal radiotracers (137Cs, 65Zn, 51Cr and
56
Cd) by green mussels (Perna Viridis) at varied environmental
conditions w.r.t. salinity and temperature.
5. Constrains for successful implementation of the project.
(a) Feasibility of organizing studies related to sediment erosion in Makran coastline
could not initiated due to bad conditions in the area.
(b) Establishment of AQUARISK Modelling Facilities in Pakistan are subject to provision of
the model by ANSTO-Australia through the IAEA/RCA .
In this regard, we request IAEA/RCA to provide the following assistance through the
RAS/08/095 Project Funds:
Sr. #
1.
Tasks / Targets
1. Training of National Team
Members for ecological risk
Assistance Required from the IAEA/RCA
to meet the Tasks / Targets
Expert Mission of the following Scientists from
ANSTO/Australia and IAEA-MEL,
20
assessment modeling
2. Cost Free Provision of
AQUARISK Model to
Environmental Modelling Group
at PINSTECH, Islamabad
3. Support for visit of IAEA/RCA
Experts, NPC and selected
Members of the National Team
to polluted harbours and creek
systems along Pakistan Coast
(mainly, Karachi, Gawadar
coasts) for suggestions on
transport model development and
radiotracer validation
experiments, bioaccumulation
and ecological risk assessment
modeling and make better plans
of action for the next phase of
the Project and to align national
projects with the regional project
concept.
Provision of nuclear (& nonnuclear) contaminant analysis of
selected inter-tidal sediment
profiles from polluted and pristine
coastal locations along Pakistan
Coast (Karachi, Ormara, Pasni,
Gawadar, Jiwani) to evaluate
pollution levels, records and
sediment erosion rates.
Monaco to PINSTECH / Islamabad,
Pakistan
1. Mr. Ron Szymczak (Leader, ANSTO Marine Systems
Analysis Task)
IAEA/RCA Project Lead Country Coordinator
PMB 1 Menai, NSW AUSTRALIA 2234
Ph: 61-2-9717-9221; fax: 61-2-9717-9260
2. Dr. John Twining (AQUARISK expert)
ANSTO, PMB 1 Menai, NSW AUSTRALIA 2234
Ph: 61-2-9717-9221; fax: 61-2-9717-9260
3.
Dr. Ross Jeffery, IAEA Marine Environment
Laboratory (MEL), Monaco
Venue: RIAD / PINSTECH, Islamabad, Pakistan
Tentative Dates: One week during October, 2006

Pesticide & PAHC Analysis

137

14
Cs, 210Pb analysis
C dating of mussel shells
6. Any additional information that could be relevant

The progress of the project may be enhanced if IAEA/RCA partly funds our
national project through sub-contracts. IAEA Technical Officer and selected
experts from Member States may visit the model sites for advice and technical
advice and project evaluation/monitoring.

Pakistan intends to host a national training course in Islamabad/Karachi
(comprising of lectures/training demonstrations along Karachi Coast and/or
Gawadar coast) on use of nuclear techniques and aquatic risk assessment models
for study of aquatic resources emergencies subject to acceptance by the
IAEA/RCA and final approval by PAEC/Government of Pakistan.
21
ANNEX 4
REGIONAL COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT (RCA)
2005/2006
PROGRESS REPORT- June 2006
1. Administrative information
1.1 Member State : Philippines
1.2 Project Title and Number: Capacity for Assessment, Planning, and Response
to Aquatic Environmental Emergencies (RAS/8/095)
H1 Extension
1.3 National Project Coordinator: Elvira Z. Sombrito
2. Regional Activities:
Participation in Regional Events – no regional event for the period
Title of the Event
Participant/s
NA
Member of the Project
Team
Yes/No
Yes/No
Yes/No
i) Are there any constraints faced in nominating members of the National Project Team
for participation in regional events?
Not Applicable (no regional event during the period)
j) Have the participants of the Regional Training Courses shared the knowledge gained
with other member of the project team?
Not Applicable (no regional event during the period)
k) Is the training received relevant to the project activities?
N.A..
l) Any other comments on regional events.
m)
3. Status of Implementing the National Work Plan
Please attach a copy of the National Work Plan for implementing this project, and
indicate the status of implementation of the Work plan. A simple format for the Work
Plan is given below.
22
Activity
Activity
2005
2006
Status
No
Meeting with collaborating
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
x
x
x
x
x
x
On-going
x
x
x
x
x
x
On-going
national institutions to
define & schedule details
activities
Compilation of existing
data in preparation of the
hydrodynamic & risk
assessment model
Initial sampling &
x
Sediment sampling
measurement of
completed, seawater will not
contaminants radionuclide
be analyzed anymore, biota
concentrations in
analysis partially done for
seawater & biota
toxic trace elements
Scientific
visit
ANSTO/UNSW
to
No request made
No participant from the
Attendance
of
1st
Modelling Workshop &
Tracing
Validation
Demonstration
Philippines was accepted
though nomination was
done.
Submission
of
IAEA
subcontract request forms
to IAEA
Additional sampling &
measurement
of
contaminants radionuclide
concentrations
in
seawater & biota
Not included in the project
budget.
x
x
x
Activities related to saxitoxin
uptake in field conditions
are being implemented and
data can be used for
ecological risk assessment
of PSP toxins.
Scientific fellowship to
ANSTO/UNSW
Submission
of
initial
results
2nd Modelling Training
Workshop
Attend
final
project
meeting
No request made
x
x
x
A paper will be presented
during the PEMSEA
Congress coinciding with
the final project meeting in
China.
4. Main achievements
Please list the main achievements of the project during the period January- June 2006. If you are
reporting on the past achievements for continuity, please indicate when they were achieved.
23
The activities of these project are incorporated in the activities of the Partnerships for
Environmental Management of the Seas of EastAsia (PEMSEA) of the International
Maritime Organization and the Department of Environment and Natural Resources (DENR).
The PNRI is the chair of an interagency group that formulated the integrated monitoring
program for Manila Bay. Membership in this group includes the University of the Philippines
and other government agencies with mandates covering the use of Manila bay for fishing and
other economic activities.
Manila Bay is a complex system in that the coastline is shared by five political units; rivers
that pass through large industrial and agricultural areas drain into Manila Bay; the water
provides livelihood and food to a large number of people; international and domestic ports
are in the bay; and about a fourth of the country’s population is within its watershed.
Three reports covering the pilot monitoring activities of PNRI were prepared and accepted by
IMO-PEMSEA-DENR:
 Sombrito E.Z., L.A. Del Castillo and V.S.Calix “Elemental Analysis of Manila Bay
Sediments” report submitted for the Pilot Study Report of the TWG
Environmental Monitoring Program for Manila Bay under the
Manila Bay
Environmental Management Program of DENR-IMO-PEMSEA.

Sombrito E.Z., A. dM. Bulos, E.J.Sta. Maria and R.U.Olivares “137Cs and 210Pb
Distribution in Manila Bay Sediment” report submitted for the Pilot Study Report of
the TWG Environmental Monitoring Program for Manila Bay under the Manila
Bay Environmental Management Program of DENR-IMO-PEMSEA

Sombrito, E. , M.V. Honrado and M. dC. Tangona “Tributyl Tin Contamination in
Mussel and Marine Sediment in Manila Bay” report submitted for the Pilot Study
Report of the TWG Environmental Monitoring Program for Manila Bay under the
Manila Bay Environmental Management Program of DENR-IMO-PEMSEA
The analyses performed on the sediment samples gave an indication of areas that may be
at risk with respect to the following:
e. Trace element
f. Tributyl tin contaminations
g. Pesticide contamination (Cs-137 as indicator of eroded soils from agriultural
area)
h. High sediment load (Pb-210 analysis)
Under the project “Application of Nuclear Techniques to Address Specific Harmful Algal
Bloom Concerns: Development and Application of Predicting , Controlling and Mitigating
(PCM) Techniques for Harmful Algal Bloom (HABs) in Selected Mariculture Sites in the
Philippines”co- funded by the Department of Science and Technology and being
implemented by the University of the Philippines Marine Science Institute (MSI) and National
Institute of Geological Sciences, Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources and the PNRI, a
hydrodynamic model of Malampaya Sound in Palawan, Philippines, was prepared by the MSI
(Dr, Cesar Villanoy and associates) . Aquatic emergency arising from harmful algal bloom in
the area can be assisted by modelling the hydrodynamic behaviour in the area. Sediment
cores from the area were also analyzed for HAB cyst and dated using Pb-210 method.
These data can be useful in assessing the potential risk of pyrodinium bloom in the area.
Nuclear and isotopic techniques were used in trace element, Cs137 and Pb-210 analyses.
The use of computer codes for quantitative assessment of ecological risk associated with the
release of contaminants into estuarine and coastal environments will have to implemented.
24
5. Constraints for successful implementation of the project
The project relies on the successful implementation of other projects being funded by other
international and local agencies. Thus it has to follow the timetable and activities of these
projects.
6. Any additional information that could be relevant
None
25
REGIONAL COOPERATIVE AGREEMENT (RCA)
2005/2006
FIRST PROGRESS REPORT- June 2006
1. Administrative information
1.1 Member State
Thailand
1.2 Project Title and Number Improving Regional Capacity for Assessment, Planning,
and Responding to Aquatic Environmental Emergencies ( RAS/8/095)
1.3 National Project Coordinator
Ms. Kanitha Srisuksawad
2. Regional Activities
Participation in Regional Events
Title of the Event
Participant/s
Member of the Project
Team
-
-
Yes/No
Yes/No
Yes/No
n) Are there any constraints faced in nominating members of the National Project Team
for participation in regional events?
o) Have the participants of the Regional Training Courses shared the knowledge gained
with other member of the project team?
p) Is the training received relevant to the project activities?
q) Any other comments on regional events.
3. Status of Implementing the National Work Plan
Please attach a copy of the National Work Plan for implementing this project, and indicate
the status of implementation of the Work plan. A simple format for the Work Plan is given
below.
26
Activity
No
Activity
1
Thale Noi
1.1
Preliminary study of
physical, hydrological,
climatologically, water
quality, and land used
1.2
2005
Q1
Q2
2006
Q3
Q4
Q1
Q2
Q3
Status
Q4
literature review and
secondary data collection
Done
Monitoring of geological
and hydrological data
Done
Monitoring for surface
water quantities and rate of
evaporation
Done
Analysis of preliminary
data and map construction
Done
Water quality
monitoring
Monitor for sampling point
identification
Activity
Collection and analysis of
sample
Sample collection and
analysis was done for wet
season.
Spatial and seasonal
measurements of organic
pollutants in the forms of
BOD, COD and TOC
As the above
Spatial and seasonal
measurements of nitrogen
pollutant in the form of
TN, NH4 and NO3
As the above
Spatial and seasonal
measurements of
phosphorus pollutants in
the form of PO4
As the above
Spatial and seasonal
measurement of pH, SS,
DO and chlorophylls a
As the above
Activity
2005
2006
27
Status
No
1
Thale Noi ( cont’)
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
Q
Q2
Q3
Q4
1
1.3
Study of sedimentation
rates and environmental
archives
Monitoring for sampling
point identification
Done
Collection of sediment
core
Analysis of 210Pb, 13C,
and 15N organic matter
nitrogen and phosphorus
and N/P ratios.
Analysis of 210Pb, organic
matter, nitrogen and
phosphorus will be
commenced from Jan-June
2007. Analysis of 13C and
15N must require assistances
from IAEA in form of
fellowship or analytical
provider.
Data analysis
Data analysis will be
commenced in fourth quarter
of 2007
1.4
Study primary
production of the lake by
C-14 tracer
1.5
Study phosphorus
turnover rate of the lake
by P-32
1.6
Food web analysis in
ecological system of the
lake by C-13 and N-15
ratios
Need assistances from IAEA
in form of fellowship or
analytical provider
1.7
Modeling of organic
pollutants and heavy
metals transfer in
aquatic environment
Need assistances from IAEA
on training on model
development and RMA
software.
1.8
Kinetic study of uptake
and loss of pollutants and
organic matter using
nuclear technique
To be started in 2007
Activity
No
Activity
2005
2006
28
Status
1
Thale Noi ( cont’)
1.9
Ecological risk
assessment using
AQUARISK program
2
Nakorn Nayok River
2.1
Preliminary study of
physical, hydrological
data
2.2
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
Q1
Q2
Q3
Q4
To be commenced after
training on AQUARISK
literature review and
secondary data collection
Done
Analysis of preliminary
data and map construction
Done
Monitoring of geological
and hydrological ( water
level, rating curve) data
Sub contracting
Water quality
monitoring
Monitor for sampling point
identification
Done
Collection and analysis of
sample
Spatial and seasonal
measurements of organic
pollutants in the forms of
BOD, COD and TOC
Spatial and seasonal
measurements of
Radioactivity
2.3
Model calibration
Collection of hydrological
( water level and water
quantity ) data on
experimental date
Injection of Rhodamine
WT ( Batch release ) at
discharge point, collection
of data using single -
Activity
No
2
Activity
Nakorn Nayok River (
2005
Q1
Q2
2006
Q3
Q4
29
Q1
Q2
Q3
Status
Q4
cont’)
-fluorometer ( turner
Designs 10 AU)
Model calibration ( using
MIKE 11 or RMA) .
2.4
Model verification
Collection of hydrological
( water level and velocity )
data on experiment date
Injection of Rhodamine
WT ( Batch release ) at
discharge point, collection
of data using single
fluorometer ( turner
Designs 10 AU)
.
Model verification
2.5
Kinetic study of uptake
and loss of pollutants and
organic matter using
nuclear technique
2.6
Ecological risk
assessment using
AQUARISK program
To be commenced after training on
AQUARISK
4. Main achievements
Please list the main achievements of the project during the period January- June 2006.
If you are reporting on the past achievements for continuity, please indicate when they were
achieved.
4.1 Thale Noi
Preliminary results from the first comprehensive field observation:
In the wet season, Thale Noi was governed mostly by acid water (pH<7.0). In addition,
SS and COD were notably high, particularly in the upper part of the basin. This can be
attributed to high water discharge from Kuan Kreng marsh land where soil is acid and
sediment and organic matter are exceptionally high.
Particulate Phosphorus (P) makes up a largest portion of phosphorus pool (62%).This
results, in part, from some phosphate prone to adhere to particles, whereas, nitrogen pool is
dominant by dissolved organic N (65%). Dissolved inorganic N (DIN) accounts only 2%
which nitrate is a major component (mean = 7.6 uM). Biologically useful P (mean = 0.28 uM)
is substantially less than DIN (mean = 8.7 uM) However, its geographical pattern of variation
resembles that of DIN. As a consequence, N: P ratio of inorganic nutrients greatly deviates
from the Redfield ratio (16:1), the ratio which inorganic nutrients are normally used by
30
phytoplankton and released from mineralization of organic matter. This implies that Thale
Noi is N enrichment ecosystem, and P is a limiting factor for phytoplankton production.
Thale Noi is classified is as eutrophication in terms of algal biomass which chlorophyll a
( chl-a) being remarkably high ( range = 3.5 -14.0 ug/l, mean = 44 ug/l) . Visual inspection
reveals that spatial distribution of chl-a is similar to that nutrients. Phytoplankton production
in Thale Noi is controlled in part by available P, as is evident from a significantly positive
between chl-a and total P ( r = 0.45, p<0.1,n = 55) . For DIN , only ammonia has significantly
positively correlate with regenerated nitrogen as a primary source for their growth. This,
together with limitation of available P, leads to nitrate remaining unconsumed, as can be seen
from residual nitrate which is relatively high.
4.2 Nakorn Nayok River
Ongkharak Nuclear Research Center is located at latitude 14o 07/N longitude 101o 02/E,
about 60 km northeast of Bangkok. The total area of the site is 505,600 m2.
Nakorn Nayok River is located about 1 km west from ONRC. It collects the flow from
Khaokhieo and Khaoyai. The flow rate of this river is around 300 m3 /s in the rainy season
and much less in the summer. However, the Nayok dam, which is located on Nakhon Nayok
River northeast of the site, was built for irrigation water supply and flood control. Therefore,
the flow rate near the site is less than that shown in above reference.
The study of the preliminary survey of the ecology system around the site that was
conducted in 1999 revealed;
Most land uses within 10 km around the ONRC site was predominantly abandoned area
(31.06-24.68%), active paddy (32.31-29.7%), inactive paddy (26.32-12.51 %) and others. Soil
around the site was considerably homogeneous and most was clay. Soil was very acidic,
which elevated dissolved Al (plant toxic) concentration in soil and limited nutrient
bioavailability such as P. In contrast, the concentration of some nutrient such as Cu was
remarkably high (Cu=116 ppm) in some stations. E.C. (Electric conductivity) at some station
was high (E.C. = 3.08-3.78 and 1.041-1.389 mil.mol/cm, normal= 0.05-0.4 mil.mol/cm).
However, the E.C. such this high is still safe for shallow roots plant such as rice. The organic
carbon content was moderate and decrease with depth. Ca, Mg, Na, and K founded were
moderate amount but still sufficient for plant.
The maximum recorded rainfall during ten years (1996-1986) was 30.1mm in March
1991.
Inflow rate to the river ranged -15-26 m3/s in dry season and 43-53 m3/s in rainy season
Outflow ranged 35-48 m3/s in dry season and 58-65 m3/s in rainy season. Nakorn Nayok
River water is classified as class 3 for Surface Water Quality Standards (Notification of the
National Environmental Board, No. 7, 1994). An investigation in 1999 indicated that the
water quality in general was acceptable, that was the values of most parameters were within
the Surface Water Quality Standards, that was: BOD = 1-3 mg/l, COD = 4-4.9 mg/l, SS = 2245 mg/l, TDS = 20-235 mg/l, Te = 0-0.0146 mg/l, Mo = 0-0.356 mg/l, K= 0.929-9.486 mg/l
,Ca= 0.076-24.452 mg/l, DO = 0.2-7.5 mg/l, pH = 3.8-7.3 , Conductivity = 40-4500 mil.mol/l,
Salinity = 0-2.5 ppt, and T = 26-32oC. Phytoplankton group of Cyanophyta especially
Oscillatoria limnetica was found most in river water. Zooplankton, Anthropod and Rotifera sp
was the most dominant species. Benthic animals, tubicids, crustaceans, insect larvae and
mollusk found in the river with crustaceans; river shrimp, Palaemonidae family was the most
abundance and found at every stations.
31
Radiological monitoring around the site was summarized in Table 1:
Table1: Radioactivity baseline of environmental sample from the vicinity of ONRC construction site; at preconstruction period (1997-1999).
Sample
Gross
alpha1
Gross beta 1
40K 1
137Cs 1
90Sr 2
226Ra 2
Surface water
0.037
0.145
<3.301
<0.195
5.073
1.105
Ground/underground
water
0.042
0.135
<3.301
<0.195
3.131
3.305
Aquatic
Fish)
animal
(
2.303
29.050
30.770
0.030
ND
0.012
Aquatic animal
river shrimp)
(
18.071
82.398
51.780
<0.195
ND
0.767
Aquatic
edible)
(
4.117
128.837
56.024
0.031
ND
0.071
Aquatic plant ( not
edible)
2.813
65.637
37.903
0.087
ND
0.031
Vegetables
3.075
57.961
31.920
0.079
ND
0.135
Fruit( Banana)
3.786
92.702
76.424
0.050
ND
0.008
Milled
rice
( polished)
0.517
37.005
12.530
0.081
ND
ND
Under-milled
(
home-pounded) rice
2.382
83.272
52.740
0.107
ND
ND
Ricegrass/ paragrass
2.208
170.703
168.065
0.136
ND
0.965
plant
1= Unit in Bq/l or Bq/kg
2= Unit in mBq/l or mBq/kg
ND= Not detectable
Plan for collection of data
Eleven sampling points in Nakorn Nayok River were indicated. The sampling points cover the
distance ~ 11 km up and down stream from discharged point of ONRC. Data required for
modeling will be collected from sampling points:
-
Tidal elevations
-
Bed roughness ( Manning’s n)
-
Discharge rate of rivers
-
Radioactivity
5. Constraints for successful implementation of the project
32
1. Delay of funded by the government due to the re-organization of the institute.
2. Change of climate i.e. storm and heavy rain caused sampling delayed.
3. Delay of assistances from IAEA.
6. Any additional information that could be relevant
None.
33