EPA's report is the first nationwide analysis ever conducted of contaminated sediments. It documents widespread health and environmental risks, particularly to people who eat fish from contaminated areas. Nationwide, PCBs are the most common compounds found at risky levels, along with mercury, heavy metals and pesticide residues. In Puget Sound, toxic contamination from PCBs and other chlorinated chemicals, petroleum and other hydrocarbons have been shown to cause serious damage both to bottom-dwelling fish and to salmon, including immune deficiencies, growth suppression and reproductive problems. Urban bays are posted with warnings against eating locally-caught seafood.
Mercury pollution is a particular problem in Bellingham Bay.
Unfortunately, the Authority's emphasis on reducing toxic contamination disappeared along with the Authority. Pushing for stringent sediment standards, accelerated cleanups and tightened discharge limits didn't win any popularity contests in the supercharged political atmosphere of Olympia. The Action Team is reconsidering its priorities, and maybe toxics will again merit serious attention. Now is the time to let the Action Team know what you think. All rights reserved.