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Magnitude and Extent of Contaminated Sediment and Toxicity in Boston Harbor, Massachusetts Bay, and Stellwagen Bank NMS

Magnitude and Extent of Contaminated Sediment and Toxicity in Boston Harbor, Massachusetts Bay, and Stellwagen Bank NMS

Abstract

This effort is being conducted in partnership with CCMA Biogeography and the NMFS NW Fisheries Science Center, and the Stellwagen Bank NMS. It will contribute to the overall biogeographic assessment of the SBNMS. The purpose of this study is to describe the environmental conditions in Boston Harbor and Massachusetts Bay in terms of sediment contamination and associated adverse biological effects. Expected outcomes include; 1) determination of the spatial patterns or gradients in chemical contamination and, 2) assessment of the association of measures of sediment contamination and the benthic macroinvertebrate community indicators. Organic and heavy metal concentrations have already been measured throughout the study region, and these data will be used to provide context to evaluating patterns of distribution in benthic species (i.e., invertebrates and fishes).

Objectives

One of the objectives of NS&T Bioeffects research is to assess the degree and spatial extent of habitat and biological resources that are impacted by chemical contamination. The objectives of the project in Massachusetts Bay are to 1) determine the spatial extent of contamination in Stellwagen Bank NMS, Cape Cod Bay, Massachusetts Bay and Boston Harbor sediments, 2) determine the magnitude of contamination in blue mussels and benthic fish at selected locations. A secondary objective is to ascertain whether the building of Boston’s Massachusetts Bay sewage outfall is exporting contaminants into the deeper waters of Massachusetts Bay. Bioeffects studies support NOAA ecosystem-based management through an integrated program of environmental assessment, and research to describe the current status of pollution and to detect changes in the environmental quality of our nation's estuarine and coastal waters. These interrelated activities are designed to provide coastal managers with scientific information and tools needed to balance society’s environmental, social, and economic goals.

Time Frame

2006.

For More Information

Project Manager:
Ian.Hartwell@noaa.gov
1305 East West Highway
SSMC-IV, N/SCI-1
Silver Spring, MD 20910
301-713-3028 x137