APPENDIX G 



EFFECTS OF BLASTING ON AQUATIC ORGANISMS 



Although infrequently required on floodplain sites, blasting may be 

 utilized during certain phases of gravel removal. Teleki and Chamberlain 

 (1978) developed a series of curves and equations to estimate the fatality 

 radius of a particular charge (based on an explosive with a detonation veloc- 

 ity of 4940-5490 m/s) in relation to certain types of fish (Figure G- I ) . 



A number of studies have evaluated the effects of blasting on a particu- 

 lar organism or groups of organisms. Table G- I summarizes the results of some 

 of these studies and indicates the range of sensitivities shown by aquatic 

 organisms to pressure changes. 



The force generated by a particular charge can be determined at various 

 distances by referring to Table G-2. 



REFERENCES 



Alpin, J. A. 1947. The effect of explosives on marine life. Calif. Fish and 

 Game 53( I ) : 23-27. 



Baxter, R. E. 1971. Effects of Explosives Detonated in Ice on Northern Pike, 

 Kuskokwim River, 1970. Alaska Dept. Fish and Game Info. Leaflet 154. 

 18 pp. 



Falk, M. R. , and M. J. Lawrence. 1973. Seismic Exploration: It's Nature and 

 Effect on Fish. Fish and Maine Service Central Region. Tech. Rept. Series 

 No. CEN/T 73-9. 



Hanson, H. 1954. Fur seal control program, Copper River and Bering River 

 area. Alaska Dept. of Fisheries. 



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