HELPFUL TIPS FOR
COMPLETING THE
WASTEWATER DISCHARGE
MONITORING REPORT
(DMR)
Wastewater Compliance Enforcement Program
This document provides helpful tips for completing
discharge monitoring reports for wastewater
treatment facilities.
July 2020
(850) 245-8567
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July 2020 1 | Page
TABLE OF CONTENTS
TABLE OF Contents ....................................................................................................................................... 1
INTRODUCTION .............................................................................................................................................. 3
DAILY DATA ................................................................................................................................................... 3
REPORTING FLOW DATA ............................................................................................................................. 3
Daily Flow Data ........................................................................................................................................................ 3
Monthly Average Flow Data ..................................................................................................................................... 4
Three-Month Average Flow Data .............................................................................................................................. 5
Annual Average Flow Data ....................................................................................................................................... 5
REPORTING WATER QUALITY DATA .......................................................................................................... 6
Daily Effluent Quality Data ....................................................................................................................................... 6
Maximum (or Minimum) Values .............................................................................................................................. 6
Weekly Average Effluent Quality Data ..................................................................................................................... 7
Partial Weeks...................................................................................................................................................... 7
Intermittent Discharges ...................................................................................................................................... 8
Monthly Average Effluent Quality Data ................................................................................................................... 8
Annual Average Effluent Quality Data ..................................................................................................................... 9
REPORTING LOADING DATA ..................................................................................................................... 10
Pounds Per Day Loading Data................................................................................................................................. 10
Daily Maximum Loading Data ................................................................................................................................ 10
Daily Average Loading Data ................................................................................................................................... 10
Monthly Average Loading Data .............................................................................................................................. 11
Pounds Per Year Loading Data ............................................................................................................................... 11
REPORTING FECAL COLIFORM DATA ..................................................................................................... 11
Daily Fecal Coliform Data ...................................................................................................................................... 11
Percent Less Than Detection ................................................................................................................................... 12
No More Than 10 Percent Value ............................................................................................................................. 12
Monthly Geometric Mean ....................................................................................................................................... 12
Monthly Median Value ............................................................................................................................................ 13
Annual Average Fecal Coliform Value ................................................................................................................... 13
Reporting “Too Numerous to Count” ...................................................................................................................... 13
Fecal coliform by membrane filtration (CFU/100 mL) .................................................................................... 14
Fecal coliform by multiple well (MPN/100 mL) .............................................................................................. 14
REPORTING BIOSOLIDS DATA .................................................................................................................. 15
Calculating Dry Tons for the Biosolids DMR ......................................................................................................... 15
Biosolids Quantity Parameters: Landfilled vs. Transferred ..................................................................................... 16
REPORTING TOXICITY DATA ..................................................................................................................... 16
Chronic Toxicity Results ......................................................................................................................................... 16
Acute Toxicity Results ............................................................................................................................................ 16
REPORTING DATA FOR NEW PERMIT REQUIREMENTS ........................................................................ 17
REPORTING DATA FROM CONTINUOUS MONITORING EQUIPMENT ................................................... 17
Strip Chart Recorders .............................................................................................................................................. 17
Maximum and Minimum Values...................................................................................................................... 17
Daily Averages ................................................................................................................................................. 17
Computerized Data Logging Systems ..................................................................................................................... 17
Data Polling ...................................................................................................................................................... 17
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Maximum and Minimum Values...................................................................................................................... 18
Daily Averages ................................................................................................................................................. 18
Data Handling Features of Some Meters .......................................................................................................... 18
SAMPLE COLLECTION ................................................................................................................................ 18
General Sampling .................................................................................................................................................... 18
Composite Sampling ............................................................................................................................................... 18
Frequency of Analysis ............................................................................................................................................. 19
SIGNIFICANT FIGURES ............................................................................................................................... 19
Rounding ................................................................................................................................................................. 19
BELOW DETECTION ANALYTICAL RESULTS .......................................................................................... 19
DMR Instructions ............................................................................................................................................. 19
DATA QUALIFIER CODES ........................................................................................................................... 22
SUBMITTING YOUR DMRS .......................................................................................................................... 23
Common Non-Monthly DMRs and Due Dates ................................................................................................ 23
TABLE OF ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATION .......................................................................................... 24
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INTRODUCTION
These supplemental clarifications are intended to aid wastewater facility permittees and their
operators when completing DMRs that are submitted to the DEP. These tips are intended to
clarify questions that frequently arise when completing DMRs and are to be used in conjunction
with the “INSTRUCTIONS FOR COMPLETING THE WASTEWATER DISCHARGE
MONITORING REPORT” attached to your facility’s DMR. Additional questions regarding
completion of the DMR should be directed to the appropriate District office.
This document provides helpful tips for completing discharge monitoring reports for wastewater
treatment facilities.
DAILY DATA
Rule 62-620.200(10), F.A.C., defines “daily discharge” as the discharge measured during a
calendar day or any 24-hour period that reasonably represents the calendar day for purposes of
sampling. Typically, the calendar day (12:00 midnight – 11:59 p.m.) is used. However, this
definition also allows a permittee to specify a 24-hour period that corresponds to staffing shifts
as their reporting day. In any case, this definition of a 24-hour period is to be used consistently
for purposes of reporting and should not vary from one day to another. This permit requirement
may appear on the DMR as “daily” or as “daily, 24-hour.”
REPORTING FLOW DATA
This section provides information on reporting flow data for domestic and industrial wastewater
permits. Industrial wastewater permits may not have a Part B DMR. If not, think of “Part B” as
the list of daily results for each month.
DAILY FLOW DATA
If the DMR contains a Part B, record the total volume of effluent or reclaimed water discharged
on each day during the month on the form. Each daily entry should be entered in the units
specified on the DMR.
Even if the discharge only occurred during a portion of the day, enter the total volume discharged
during that period on Part B of the DMR. As shown in EXAMPLE 1, if 2 million gallons were
discharged over a 4 hour period on July 3, and the discharge ceased for the remainder of the day,
you would still record “2” MGD for July 3 on Part B.
If no discharge occurred during the rest of July, enter “0” for those days on Part B of the DMR.
EXAMPLE 1 shows how the flows would be entered on Part B for July, if the only discharge were
on the 3
rd
of July, as described in the paragraph above.
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MONTHLY AVERAGE FLOW DATA
The monthly average flow is reported on Part A of the DMR form. Rule 62-600.200(35), F.A.C.,
defines “Monthly average daily flow” as the total volume of wastewater flowing into a
wastewater facility during a calendar month, divided by the number of days in that month and
expressed in MGD. To calculate the monthly average flow, sum the daily flow entries specified
on the DMR for all days shown in Part B and divide by the total number of days in the month
(typically 30 or 31).
As shown in EXAMPLE 2, if the discharge was intermittent (did not occur on one or more days
during the month), the monthly average flow is calculated in exactly the same fashion as would
be done for a continuous discharge (discharge on all days of the month). The daily flow entries
(in MGD) would be summed for all days shown in Part B (including 0 for all days on which no
discharge occurred). This total would be divided by the total number of days in the month
(typically 30 or 31), not by the number of discharge days.
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THREE-MONTH AVERAGE FLOW DATA
The Three-Month Rolling Average (Rolling Quarterly) is reported on Part A of the DMR form,
and is defined as the total volume of flow during a period of three consecutive months, divided
by the number of days in this three-month period Rule 62-600.200(61), F.A.C. The three-month
average may also be calculated by adding the three monthly average flows then dividing by 3.
ANNUAL AVERAGE FLOW DATA
The annual average daily flow is also reported on Part A of the DMR form. In accordance with
Rule 62-600.200(2), F.A.C., the annual average daily flow means the total volume of wastewater
flowing into a wastewater facility during any consecutive 365 days, divided by 365 and
expressed in units of MGD. However, unless specified otherwise in the permit, for practical
purposes, the annual average flow may also be calculated as the rolling arithmetic mean of the 12
monthly averages. Using the values from EXAMPLES 1 and 2, if the monthly averages (in
MGD) had been as follows: 1.0, 2.0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0, 0.5, 0, 0, 0.06, then the annual average
would be the sum (3.56) divided by 12 which equals 0.3 MGD. On Part A of the DMR, the
monthly and annual average flow would be reported as shown in EXAMPLE 3 below:
Reporting Flow Summary:
• For monthly average flows, always divide the total volume for the month by the number of
days in the month (usually 30 or 31).
• For annual average flows, always divide the sum of the 12 monthly averages by 12 months or
the sum of the total volume for the year by 365 days.
• Use zeros for days or months of no discharge.
• Report in units as specified on the DMR.
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REPORTING WATER QUALITY DATA
Unlike calculating flow averages, the definitions in Rules 62-620.200 and 62-600.200, F.A.C.,
indicate that averages for most pollutants (excluding fecal coliform, which will be discussed
later), and their associated effluent limitations, are calculated based on the arithmetic mean of
any samples collected during the period. That is, pollutant averages are generally calculated by
dividing the sum of the concentrations or mass values by the number of individual measurements
during a given period.
In accordance with Rule 62-620.610(18), F.A.C., when averaging results or determining other
reporting values (e.g., maximums) for the DMRs, all observations obtained for a reporting period
in accordance with DEP approved methods shall be used for each effluent quality parameter.
Thus, even sample results that are in addition to the minimum monitoring requirements in a
permit should be used to calculate the average, minimum, and maximum values for reporting to
the Department.
DAILY EFFLUENT QUALITY DATA
Daily effluent quality data is normally reported on Part B of the DMR on days during which a
discharge to a particular reuse or disposal system occurred. If the permit requires “daily”
sampling, the permittee should sample on each day that a discharge occurs. If discharge occurs
on six days, the underlying measurement results should contain six entries – one for each day of
discharge. If the permit requires weekly sampling, the permittee must sample on at least one day
during which discharge occurred within each weekly period (e.g., a Sunday to Saturday period).
If there was no discharge during the course of a week, no entry would be made within that week.
However, it is recommended that the permittee sample at the first occurrence of a discharge to
ensure that required sampling is accomplished during the month.
MAXIMUM (OR MINIMUM) VALUES
Part B of the DMR should be completed, if required, before reporting data on Part A of the
DMR, which contains the limits that were established in the permit. One type of limit is a
maximum or minimum. Reporting this value doesn’t require any calculation. For a particular
parameter, review the values that were reported on Part B of the DMR for the entire month and
report the highest number wherever it says “Max.” If you see “Min” under a limit, report the
lowest of all the values for that parameter. In some cases a minimum value may be reported by a
laboratory as “below detection limit.” In such cases, please see the section entitled “Below
Detection Analytical results” later in this document.
If only one sample was taken during the monitoring period, and a Maximum and Minimum are
required, report that value as the Max and Min. For example, if pH is only sampled once per
day, record that value as the Min and Max for that day.
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WEEKLY AVERAGE EFFLUENT QUALITY DATA
Rule 62-620.200(57), F.A.C., defines a “weekly average discharge limitation” as the maximum
weekly average pollutant value allowed by the permit and calculated as the arithmetic mean of
each reclaimed water or effluent sample collected on a separate day during a period of seven
consecutive days. If only one sample is required per week, that sample result should be reported
as the weekly average.
The following sections explain how to handle partial weeks at the end or beginning of a month
and intermittent discharges.
PARTIAL WEEKS
For purposes of reporting on the DMR, Sunday through Saturday is commonly used as the
week (i.e., the seven consecutive day period referred to in the rule). For situations where a
partial week falls on the beginning or end of a month, the weekly average should be calculated
by considering the partial week at the end of a month as part of the partial week on the
following month.
As shown in EXAMPLE 4, let us consider the month of April 2011. The last full week of
the month ended on Saturday, April 28. This month features a partial week at the end of the
month, which ran from Sunday, April 29 through Monday, April 30.
Under this situation, the results for each day obtained on April 29 – 30 would be reported on Part B
of the DMR for April. They would be compared to the daily maximum permit limits on the April
DMR. They would be used to calculate the monthly average for April, which would be based on all
observations during the April 1 – 30 period. For purposes of the April DMR, the
observations obtained on April 29 – 30 would not be used to calculate a weekly average in April.
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However, values obtained on April 29 – 30 would be used to calculate the weekly average for the
week running from April 29 through May 5. This weekly average would be compared to the
permit’s weekly average limit as part of May’s DMR.
INTERMITTENT DISCHARGES
If there was no discharge during the course of a day, week, or month, then no results or values
would be used for calculations for the respective time periods.
For example, during April 2011, there were four weekly periods (Sunday through Saturday) that
ended during that month and one partial week ending in the next month. The permit required
daily samples. The facility discharged intermittently that month as follows: the first week there
were two days of discharge, the second week the facility discharged every day, the third and
fourth weeks there was no discharge, the fifth week there were two days of discharge.
For the month of April in EXAMPLE 5, the facility would have two weekly averages.
For the first week, the two daily samples should be averaged. The second week the seven daily
samples should be averaged. There is no weekly average for the third and fourth weeks. Since
the fifth week ends in May, the values on April 29 – 30 would be used in the weekly average
for the week of April 29 through May 5 and reported on the May DMR (See EXAMPLE 4).
The maximum of the two weekly averages for April would be reported on Part A.
MONTHLY AVERAGE EFFLUENT QUALITY DATA
Rule 62-620.200(27), F.A.C., defines “monthly average discharge limitation” as the maximum
monthly average pollutant value allowed by the permit and calculated as the arithmetic mean of
each reclaimed water or effluent sample collected on a separate day during a period of 30
consecutive days. For example, if your permit requires samples to be obtained only once per
month, but two samples are collected, then the monthly average is the sum of the results divided
by the number of samples (in this case, two). Another example is if your permit requires
samples to be obtained only once per month, and only one sample is obtained, then this result is
reported as both the monthly average as well as the daily maximum for that month (or minimum
depending on the parameter).
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ANNUAL AVERAGE EFFLUENT QUALITY DATA
Rule 62-620.200(2), F.A.C., defines “annual average discharge limitation” as the maximum
annual average pollutant value allowed by the permit and calculated as the arithmetic mean of
the 12 monthly average reclaimed water or effluent samples collected during any consecutive 12-
month period. Alternatively, the annual average may be calculated as the arithmetic mean of the
daily values over a 12-month period.
EXAMPLE 6 shows a 12-month period where there were three months of no discharge. If there
is a month in which “no discharge” was reported, then the annual average is calculated based on
the number of months that there was a discharge. On the monthly DMR for the monitoring
period of May 1 – May 31, 2011, the annual average may be calculated based on the monthly
averages for June 2010 – May 2011. If during the months of December 2010 – February 2011,
there was no discharge, then the annual average will be calculated by adding the monthly
averages for June – November 2010 and March – May 2011 and dividing by the number of
months of discharge (i.e., 9).
Reporting Water Quality Data Summary:
• When calculating weekly average, divide by the number of samples, not the number of days.
• When reporting the weekly average on Part A, report the maximum of the weekly averages
for the month.
• If only one sample was collected per week, report the highest value as the weekly average on
Part A.
• For the monthly average, report the arithmetic average of the daily values for the calendar
month. If only one sample was collected, report that value as the monthly average in
addition to reporting it as the maximum or minimum. Do not include zero values for the
days of no discharge when calculating the monthly average.
• For the annual average, report the arithmetic average of the monthly averages over the rolling
12-month period, or the arithmetic average of the individual values for the period. Do not
include zero values for the months of no discharge in the calculated annual average.
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REPORTING LOADING DATA
This section discusses how to calculate and report loading results. Loading limits are primarily
expressed in the following ways:
• pounds per day,
• daily maximum,
• daily average,
• monthly average, and
• pounds per year.
POUNDS PER DAY LOADING DATA
The daily loading is calculated by combining the concentration data (from grab or composite
samples, as specified in the permit) with the day’s total flow to calculate the pounds per day
loading in the discharge for each day of discharge.
To calculate the daily loading, consider EXAMPLE 7 for a facility with an intermittent discharge
on only four days during the month. If you have flow and concentration data for four days in a
month, first calculate the pounds per day loading on each of these four days. Pounds per day
loading will be calculated only for days on which both flow and quality data are available.
DAILY MAXIMUM LOADING DATA
Daily Maximum is the highest daily loading value within the monitoring period. The maximum
of the daily values will be entered on Part A of the DMR. In EXAMPLE 7, the Daily Maximum
would be value which was calculated for Day 4 (50 lbs/day).
DAILY AVERAGE LOADING DATA
The daily average loading is calculated by multiplying the daily flow (MGD) by the average
concentration (mg/L) of all the samples for that day, and multiplied by a constant, 8.34. If only
one sample is taken per day, use that value as the average.
[Avg lbs/day] = [8.34] * [flow MGD] * [avg concentration mg/L]
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MONTHLY AVERAGE LOADING DATA
If the permit only has a monthly average loading limit, the loadings don’t need to be calculated
daily. The average pounds per day loading is to be recorded on Part A of the DMR. In making
this calculation, the average monthly flow will be used (see Monthly Average Flow section for
guidance) and the average concentration (calculated by adding the individual values during the
month and dividing by the total number of values in the month). EXAMPLE 8 shows how to
calculate the average pounds per day for the month, using the same data as in EXAMPLE 7 and
assuming no discharge on any other days in the month.
POUNDS PER YEAR LOADING DATA
The calculation for pounds per year is based on your permit requirements. For annual reporting
requirements, the pounds per year can be calculated by totaling the monthly averages for the
given calendar year. For monthly reporting, the calculation is based on a rolling monthly total.
REPORTING MICROBIOLOGICAL DATA
Fecal coliform values are reported on the DMR in a variety of ways, which are quite different
from other effluent quality values that must be reported (e.g. percent less than detection, monthly
geometric mean, monthly median value, etc.) The fecal coliform values that must be reported
depend on the level of disinfection required as well as the monitoring frequency specified in the
permit. Depending on the disinfection level required, fecal coliform values may be reported in
several different ways. The following paragraphs clarify reporting for the various statistical
bases. Reporting for Enterococci and E. coli with multiple well methods are also covered in this
section.
DAILY MICROBIOLOGICAL DATA
Record daily observations of fecal coliforms on Part B of the DMR form. Observations less than
detection should be recorded as “<1” (if the detection limit is 1/100 mL for Membrane Filter
(MF) techniques or multiple tube fermentation). Observations less than detection for
Enterococci, E. coli, and fecal coliform with multiple well should be recorded as less “<1”
MPN/100 mL. On Part A of the DMR, record the maximum observation of fecal coliforms,
Enterococci, or E. coli observed during the month.
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PERCENT LESS THAN DETECTION
If you are required to report the percentage of fecal coliform observations that were less than
detection during the month, count the number of observations for fecal coliforms on Part B that
were less than detection, divide by the total number of fecal coliform observations during the
month, multiply by 100%, and round to the nearest integer.
NO MORE THAN 10 PERCENT VALUE
In accordance with the basic and high level disinfection requirements in Rules 62- 600.440(5)
and (6), F.A.C., your permit may state that no more than 10 percent of the samples during a
period of 30 consecutive days shall exceed a certain number of fecal coliform values per 100 mL
of sample. If this fecal coliform requirement is contained in your permit, then a 90
th
percentile
value will be reported on the DMR. To report the 90
th
percentile value, list the fecal coliform
values obtained during the month in ascending order. Report the value of the sample that
corresponds to the 90
th
percentile (multiply the number of samples by 0.9). For example, for 30
samples, report the corresponding fecal coliform number for the 27
th
value of ascending order.
See EXAMPLE 9 for finding and reporting the 90
th
percentile (no more than 10%) value.
NOTE: The 90
th
Percentile should not be reported as a percentage!
MONTHLY GEOMETRIC MEAN
Rule 62-600.200(26), F.A.C., defines “Geometric mean” as the n
th
root of the product of n
numbers. In other words, in order to calculate the geometric mean of n observations, each of the
n values would be multiplied together and the resulting product will be raised to the 1/n
th
power.
Alternatively, the geometric mean can be calculated by taking the log
10
transformations of the
values and then calculating the arithmetic mean of the log
10
values. The desired geometric mean
can then be calculated by determining the inverse log
10
of the calculated arithmetic mean.
EXAMPLE 10 shows how to calculate a monthly geometric mean.
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MONTHLY MEDIAN VALUE
For intermediate-level disinfection, permittees are required to report a monthly median value for
fecal coliform in accordance with Rule 62-600.440(7)(a)2, F.A.C. See EXAMPLE 11 for how to
find the median value.
ANNUAL AVERAGE FECAL COLIFORM VALUE
For fecal coliform, the annual average is calculated as the arithmetic mean of any 12 consecutive
“monthly values.” For cases where the monthly geometric mean is being calculated, the
geometric mean values are the “monthly values” and should be used to compute the annual
average. For cases where the monthly median is being calculated, the median values are the
“monthly values” and should be used to compute the annual average.
REPORTING “TOO NUMEROUS TO COUNT”
There are several methods available to test for fecal coliforms, Enterococci and E. coli. The type
of method used determines sample dilutions and how the result is counted. The upper limits of
detection for these methods vary. Therefore, the following guidance is split between two common
types of analyses, membrane filtration (reported in Colony Forming Units/100 mL or CFU/100
mL), and multiple well (reported in Most Probable Number/100 mL or MPN/100 mL).
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FECAL COLIFORM BY MEMBRANE FILTRATION (CFU/100 ML)
Laboratories should be encouraged to conduct the necessary dilution series in order to obtain a
quantifiable result for reporting fecal coliform values. Instead of reporting “TNTC,” laboratories
should report the results as “> X,” where X is the minimum number of colony forming units/100
mL based on the sample dilutions as determined following the method outlined in EPA 600/8-78-
017 or Standard Methods 9222D-2006. However, if your laboratory reports a fecal coliform
observation as being “TNTC” (too numerous to count) do not enter “TNTC” on the DMR. In order
to use this result (e.g. to calculate the geometric mean for the month), a value is needed for this
observation. When analyzing for fecal coliforms by membrane filtration, normally a laboratory will
analyze a 1, 0.1, or 0.01 mL sample. When counting colonies, at least one or more of the sample
volumes should result in filter plates with 20 to 60 coliform colonies. In cases where there are too
many colonies for counting because of plate overgrowth, unless the laboratory specifically
indicates the sample volume, a permittee may have to assume that a 1 mL sample volume was
used. This assumption is within the normal sample size range specified by approved methods and
is the size that is most favorable to the permittee. Additionally, the permittee or its laboratory
should estimate the minimum number of colonies (e.g., 200 colonies) that formed. Based on these
assumptions, the permittee may calculate coliform density as:
Accordingly, when laboratories report TNTC, permittees should report and calculate averages
using a default value of “> 20,000 CFU/100 mL,” unless the laboratory can re-report the TNTC
result as greater than another number calculated following the method as discussed above in EPA
600/8-78-017 or Standard Methods 9222D-2006.
Some of the smaller facilities may only be required to sample monthly for fecal coliforms. Using
20,000 for a single TNTC observation will pose difficulties as the facility tries to meet the annual
basic disinfection limit (200/100 mL). Even if the other 11 months had less than detectable
levels of fecal coliforms, a month with a monthly geometric mean of 20,000 will cause the
resulting annual arithmetic average to be 1,667 CFU/100 mL – an exceedance of the annual
average permit limit. The permittee may perform additional sampling within the month to attain
a more representative monthly average geometric mean.
FECAL COLIFORM, ENTEROCOCCI AND E. COLI BY MULTIPLE WELL (MPN/100 ML)
Multiple well methods (e.g. Colilert-18) do not count colonies like membrane filtration methods.
They use a statistical method to extrapolate the Most Probable Number (MPN) of colonies based on
the number of positive wells. Typically, samples are run at a single dilution (e.g. 10 mL or 100 mL).
The most common type of multiple well test is sold by IDEXX. They have two tray options, Quanti-
Tray® and Quanti-Tray®/2000, which have different counting ranges. Laboratories may use either
tray for the same method. Quanti-Tray® can detect up to 200.5 MPN/100 mL and Quanti-
Tray®/2000 can detect up to 2,419.6 MPN/100 mL. If all wells are positive in a multiple well test,
the result is known to be greater than the top of the counting range but cannot be quantified.
Laboratories should be encouraged to use Quanti-Tray®/2000 to prevent having results that can’t be
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quantified. If your laboratory reports a fecal coliform, Enterococci or E.coli observation as being “>
X” or with a J-qualifier* and comment stating that all of the wells were positive, the permittee or its
laboratory should report and calculate averages using a default value of “> 2,419.6 MPN/100 mL”.
*Estimated value. A “J” – qualified sample value shall be accompanied by a detailed explanation to
justify the reason(s) for designating the value as estimated.
REPORTING BIOSOLIDS DATA
Enter the amount in dry tons of biosolids hauled each month. For months that no biosolids were
hauled, please enter “0”. Submit the DMR monthly regardless of whether biosolids were hauled
or not. Do not report or “carryover” quantities hauled from previous months.
CALCULATING DRY TONS FOR THE BIOSOLIDS DMR
A. If you know the percent total solids (from biosolids analyses results) and you know the
volume (gallons or cubic yards) or weight (wet tons), use the following formulas to
calculate dry tons:
Note – Enter the percent solids in the formulas in decimal form (e.g. enter 0.15 for 15% TS)
1) Dry tons = Wet tons x Percent Solids
Example: 40 wet tons biosolids x 0.15 total solids =
6 dry tons biosolids
2) Dry tons = gallons biosolids x 8.34 lb/gallon x ton/2,000 lb x Percent Solids
Example: 6,000 gal biosolids x 8.34 lb/gal x ton/2,000 lb x 0.04 total solids =
1 dry ton biosolids
3) Dry tons = cubic yards wet biosolids x Y lb/cubic yard x ton/2,000 lb x Percent Solids
(Y = site-specific bulk density of biosolids)
Example: 20 cubic yards biosolids at 15% total solids and Y = 1800 lb/cubic yard;
20 cu yds x 1,800 lb/cu yds x ton/2,000 lb x 0.15 total solids =
2.7 dry tons of biosolids
B. If you do not have biosolids analyses results, you may estimate the percent total solids.
Generally, liquid is approximately 1.5 - 2% total solids, and dewatered “cake” is
approximately 15 - 20% total solids.
Example: 1,000 gallons of 2% total solids was hauled.
1,000 gal biosolids x 8.34 lb/gal = 8,340 lbs
2% of 8,340 lbs = .02 x 8,340 = 166.8 lbs
166.8 lbs / 2,000 lbs =
0.0834 dry tons hauled
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BIOSOLIDS QUANTITY PARAMETERS: LANDFILLED VS. TRANSFERRED
Disposing of biosolids in a landfill is not the same as transferring biosolids to another facility for
treatment. These are two separate items. All the use or disposal parameters are separate items
and double entry of quantities should be avoided.
If a landfill and a biosolids treatment facility are co-located, enter the quantity as either landfilled
or transferred, but not both. Choose the best option as practiced by the facility. For example, if
hauling records indicate biosolids are sent to Facility X (biosolids treatment facility) located at
Facility Q (landfill), the quantity should be entered on the DMR as “transferred,” and “0” should
be entered in the landfill cell.
REPORTING TOXICITY DATA
Whole effluent toxicity testing provides reasonable assurance that the effluent is not toxic to
aquatic organisms in the receiving water. Tests are bioassays performed on two species, an
invertebrate and a fish.
DMRs for whole effluent toxicity have several spaces for reporting test results for each species.
The monitoring frequency for whole effluent toxicity testing varies. If submitting a DMR when
toxicity testing is not required, fill in all of the reporting spaces as “MNR”. When there are
whole effluent toxicity results to report, the routine results are reported in the first space for each
species. The additional spaces are reserved for additional follow-up testing if there is a failure in
the routine test. If there are no additional follow-up test results to report, enter “MNR” in those
spaces.
If the results to be reported are additional follow-up tests, and if the routine toxicity test result
has been reported on an earlier DMR, fill in the first box for each species on the DMR with the
code “MNR”. Enter the results from the two additional follow-up tests in the second and third
boxes on the DMR. Note, there may only be results for one test species to report. Do not report
the same result more than once on any DMR. Enter “MNR” on all unfilled spaces for toxicity
on the DMR.
CHRONIC TOXICITY RESULTS
Chronic toxicity tests are bioassays lasting 6 to 8 days. The endpoint is a sub-lethal effect such
as growth (or biomass) or reproduction. Toxicity results are reported as the IC25, which is the
concentration of effluent that causes a 25 percent reduction in a biological response such as
growth or reproduction when compared to a control response. The percent effluent equal to the
IC25 is reported on the DMR for each species tested. When the bioassay results indicate that the
effluent produces less than a 25% decrease in the biological response compared to the control,
the IC25 result is reported on the DMR as “> 100%” effluent.
ACUTE TOXICITY RESULTS
Acute toxicity tests are 96 hour bioassays. The endpoint is mortality. Toxicity results are
reported on the DMR as the LC50, which is the concentration of effluent where 50% of the test
organisms die.
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The percent effluent equal to the LC50 is determined and reported on the DMR for each
species tested. When multiple samples are collected over a 24 hour period and tested
separately, the lowest LC50 result is reported on the DMR for each species tested. When
bioassay results indicate that there is less than 50% mortality in the undiluted effluent, the
LC50 is reported on the DMR as “> 100%” effluent.
REPORTING DATA FOR NEW PERMIT REQUIREMENTS
When calculating annual or three-month averages for new facilities or facilities with new
monitoring requirements, data will likely not be available to calculate an average for all of the
months during the period prior to operation. In such cases, the permittee should indicate that the
limit is not applicable by entering “MNR” on the DMR to indicate “monitoring not required” this
period. Once the facility has been in operation for the averaging period specified in the permit,
the average result should be entered on the DMR.
REPORTING DATA FROM CONTINUOUS MONITORING EQUIPMENT
STRIP CHART RECORDERS
The following applies to strip chart recorders, circular chart recorders, and other recording
devices that do not feature computerized data acquisition and storage.
MAXIMUM AND MINIMUM VALUES
Visually inspect each day’s record (chart) and select the highest value recorded on the chart and
record this as the “daily maximum” for that day. In a similar fashion, the lowest value recorded
on the chart will be selected and reported as the “daily minimum” for each day.
DAILY AVERAGES
Visually inspect each day’s record (chart) and select values recorded on the chart at exactly each
hour during the day (12:00 a.m., 1:00 a.m., 2:00 a.m… through 11:00 p.m.) The resulting 24
values will be used to calculate the daily average (sum the 24 values and divide by 24). Record
this value as the daily average on Part B of the DMR. Note: other data on the chart will not be
used in the calculation of the daily average.
COMPUTERIZED DATA LOGGING SYSTEMS
The following applies to continuous monitoring equipment that feature computerized data
logging or recording (this may be in addition to a paper chart recorder).
DATA POLLING
It is imperative that the computer system polls the continuous monitoring instrument at relatively
frequent intervals. The intervals should be uniform throughout the day. In general, it is
recommended that the time between successive polling of an instrument be no more than 5
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minutes. If an instrument were polled once every 5 minutes, the computer would record 288
observations during each day. If an instrument were polled once each minute, a total of 1,440
observations would be made each day. Observations between pollings will be ignored.
MAXIMUM AND MINIMUM VALUES
The computer will be used to identify the maximum and minimum values during the day from
the number of logged observations during the day (if the instrument is polled once every minute,
the 1,440 observations would be reviewed by the computer). The highest and lowest values
obtained from the logged observations would be recorded on Part B of the DMR form as the
“daily maximum” and “daily minimum,” respectively.
DAILY AVERAGES
The computer will be used to calculate the daily average. This will be based on the logged
observations. If a one-minute polling interval were used, the 1,440 observations obtained during
the day would be summed and divided by 1,440 to obtain the daily average, which will be
recorded on Part B of the DMR.
DATA HANDLING FEATURES OF SOME METERS
It is also important to note that some meters are equipped with data handling features that can be
programmed in an “on or off” mode. The rejection feature is to counter transient sample
conditions or readings that are not representative of the quality of the effluent (e.g. spikes). In
addition, many meters have the ability to record the results of an average signal response rather
than instantaneous signal responses. Often, this feature is an integral part of the metering
device’s ability to dampen signal noise, which might otherwise cause spurious or inaccurate
readings from the device. These features should be used in accordance with the equipment
manufacturer’s guidelines so the continuous monitoring results will be representative of the
actual discharge.
SAMPLE COLLECTION
GENERAL SAMPLING
There are two general methods for collecting samples for analysis: grab and composite samples.
The permit specifies the method of sampling required for each parameter. A grab sample is a
single sample event that is used to capture the conditions at the moment the sample is collected.
A composite sample is collected over time and reflects the average characteristics during the
compositing period.
Please refer to the DEP Standard Operating Procedures as adopted by DEP QA Rule 62-160,
F.A.C. for sampling requirements. http://www.dep.state.fl.us/water/sas/sop/sops.htm
COMPOSITE SAMPLING
Composite sampling should be limited to the period of discharge and should be representative of
the period of discharge. If a sampling device varies the sample volume or the number of samples
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based on the flow, the total volume collected can be considered as representative of the period of
discharge. This is true as long as the sampler does not collect subsamples during periods of no
flow.
FREQUENCY OF ANALYSIS
Samples should be collected, analyzed, and reported at a minimum as often as required by the
permit. If more samples are taken than required and are sampled in accordance with DEP
approved methods, they are required to be reported on the DMRs.
The facility should ensure that samples are taken during discharge events within each monitoring
period. If a facility discharges during a monitoring period, the facility is required to sample
regardless of a sampling schedule.
NOTE: Missed sampling events cannot be made up during a subsequent monitoring period.
SIGNIFICANT FIGURES
When reporting averages on your DMR, the same number of significant figures should be shown
in the average as is contained in the least precise data point being averaged (i.e., the data point
having the smallest number of significant figures). See EXAMPLE 12 for how to report a value
after rounding.
ROUNDING
Follow customary rules when rounding data. When rounding, anything 5 or greater should be
rounded up, and anything less than 5 should be rounded down.
BELOW DETECTION ANALYTICAL RESULTS
Often, laboratory results indicate that a parameter is below either a practical quantification limit
(PQL) or a method detection limit (MDL). In these cases, the DMR Instructions provide
direction on both reporting these results as well as calculating averages where needed, consistent
with Rule 62-4.246, F.A.C.
DMR INSTRUCTIONS
When reporting analytical results that fall below a laboratory's reported method detection limits
or practical quantification limits, the following instructions should be used:
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1. Results greater than or equal to the PQL shall be reported as the measured quantity.
2. Results less than the PQL and greater than or equal to the MDL shall be reported as the
laboratory's MDL value. These values shall be deemed equal to the MDL when necessary
to calculate an average for that parameter and when determining compliance with permit
limits.
3. Results less than the MDL shall be reported by entering a less than sign ("<") followed
by the laboratory's MDL value, e.g. < 0.001. A value of one-half the MDL or one-half
the effluent limit, whichever is lower, shall be used for that sample when necessary to
calculate an average for that parameter. If an average is required to be reported and
only one sample is collected during the monitoring period with the value being <
MDL, the average will be reported as the result with the less than sign followed by the
laboratory’s MDL value. Values less than the MDL are considered to demonstrate
compliance with an effluent limitation.
See EXAMPLE 13 for reporting and averaging values below detection limits.
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Example 13
DMR Part B: The table below shows the daily results used in calculating the weekly/monthly
averages from a single facility for Total Suspended Solids, Fecal Coliform and, Oil and Grease. Not
all parameters are required to be measured daily. If a parameter is not required to be monitored, then
the facility may leave blank spaces or put in the monitoring not required code (MNR). The days that
monitoring was not conducted are not used in calculating averages.
Parameter
Solids, Total
Suspended (TSS)
mg/L
Fecal Coliform #/100mL
Oil and Grease
mg/L
Code
00530
74055
00556
Monitoring Site
EFD-001
EFD-001
EFD-001
1
MNR
MNR
MNR
2
MNR
MNR
MNR
3
1.2
<1.0
MNR
4
1.0
<1.0
MNR
5
3.0
<1.0
MNR
6
1.0
<1.0
MNR
7
<1.0
<1.0
MNR
8
MNR
MNR
MNR
9
MNR
MNR
MNR
10
<1.0
<1.0
MNR
11
1.6
<1.0
MNR
12
<1.0
<1.0
MNR
13
<1.0
<1.0
MNR
14
<1.0
<1.0
<1.4
15
MNR
MNR
MNR
16
MNR
MNR
MNR
17
1.2
<1.0
MNR
18
<1.0
<1.0
MNR
19
1.6
<1.0
MNR
20
1.2
<1.0
MNR
21
2.0
<1.0
MNR
22
MNR
MNR
MNR
23
MNR
MNR
MNR
24
1.0
<1.0
MNR
25
<1.0
<1.0
MNR
26
2.0
<1.0
MNR
27
<1.0
<1.0
MNR
28
<1.0
<1.0
MNR
29
MNR
MNR
MNR
Total
21.3
10.0
<1.4
Monthly Average
1.1
0.50
<1.4
EXAMPLE 13 - A
Calculation of TSS with some results at or below the MDL
• To calculate the monthly average, add together the results with the following considerations:
o Any value that is accompanied by a < symbol needs to be halved when calculating the
averages, i.e. <1.0 values will be 0.5 when calculating.
o All values not accompanied by a < symbol can be added as reported.
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• The sample results are totaled and then divided by the number of samples taken.
o The averages are calculated with the number of samples taken and not the days in the
week or month. Not every parameter is analyzed every day and calculating with days
not reported would skew the averages downward.
o Example calculation from data above:
(1.2+1.0+3.0+1.0+0.5+0.5+1.6+0.5+0.5+0.5+1.2+0.5+1.6+1.2+2.0+1.0+0.5+
2.0+0.5+0.5)/20 samples taken =1.065mg/L
The value reported on DMR Part A is 1.1 mg/L when accounting for
significant figures.
EXAMPLE 13 - B
Calculations of Fecal Coliform with all results below the MDL
• If the samples taken for the whole time period are reported as <MDL, then the average is
going to be <MDL
o Example calculation from data above:
(0.5+0.5+0.5+0.5+0.5+0.5+0.5+0.5+0.5+0.5+0.5+0.5+0.5+0.5+0.5+0.5+0.5+
0.5+0.5+0.5)/20 samples taken= 0.50 colonies /100mL
Since 0.50 is less than the MDL, the MDL (<1.0) would be reported on DMR
Part A because the analytical test for Fecal Coliforms is not capable of
measurements below the Method Detection Limit.
EXAMPLE 13-C
Calculations Oil and Grease with only one sample taken
• If an average is required to be reported and only one sample is collected during the
monitoring period with the value being < MDL, the average will be reported as the result
with the less than sign followed by the laboratory’s MDL value. In this example, <1.4 would
be reported on Part A.
DATA QUALIFIER CODES
Data qualifier codes help serve as indicators of special circumstances that may be associated with
data or results that are being reported. Laboratories are required to use the data qualifier codes
listed in Table 1 of Chapter 62-160, F.A.C., when reporting wastewater analysis. However,
these codes are only to be transferred onto Part B of the DMR as part of your results. Where
appropriate, only the data qualifier codes listed in the “Instructions for Completing the
Wastewater Discharge Monitoring Report” that came with your current permit may be used.
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SUBMITTING YOUR DMRS
Important things to remember when submitting your DMRs:
• Submit DMRs only once per monitoring period, unless they are resubmittals. If
resubmittals are sent, label DMRs at the top as “RESUBMITTAL,” and circle or
highlight the data that was corrected or added.
• Make sure to fill out the entire DMR, including signatures, dates, correct monitoring
periods, all data cells, etc.
• Contact the district if the DMR issued does not match the permit requirements so the
issue can be addressed.
• Do not alter the DMR that was issued with the permit without approval from the district.
• Quarterly, semi-annual, and annual reports should NOT be submitted monthly.
• Make sure non-monthly DMRs shows the correct monitoring period.
COMMON NON-MONTHLY DMRS AND DUE DATES
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TABLE OF ACRONYMS AND ABBREVIATION
CFU
Colony-forming unit (used as a measure of fecal coliform)
DMR
Discharge Monitoring Report
F.A.C.
Florida Administrative Code
IC25
The concentration of effluent that causes a 25 percent reduction
in a biological response such as growth or reproduction when
compared
to a control response.
J Qualifier
Estimated value. A “J” – qualified sample value shall be
accompanied by a detailed explanation to justify the reason(s) for
designating the value as estimated. See 62-160.700, F.A.C. Table 1
Data Qualifier Codes for more detail and a complete list of
qualifiers.
LC50
Lethal Concentration of the effluent (as a percent of the whole or
100% effluent) which results in the mortality of 50% of the
test population for the multi-concentration (definitive) test.
MDL
Method Detection Limit
MF
Membrane Filter (technique for measuring fecal coliforms)
mg/L
Milligrams per Liter
MGD
Million Gallons per Day
MPN
Most Probable Number (technique for measuring fecal coliforms)
n
Number of values or observations
Part A
Part of the DMR used for reporting effluent or reclaimed water
summary data
Part B
Part of the DMR used for reporting daily sample results
PQL
Practical Quantification Limit
TNTC
Too Numerous To Count (for fecal coliforms)
WET
Whole Effluent Toxicity
