PCBs adsorb strongly to soil and sediment particulates which have a high organic matter or clay content. Sediments which have a high organic matter content and low density have been shown to become resuspended in the water column and transported downstream. The PCB-contaminated sediments in the Fox River between Lake Winnebago and the DePere Dam have accumulated behind dams and in depositional areas away from the original points of discharge. PCB-contaminated sediments in LLBM are the source of the majority of contaminated sediments up to and behind DePere Dam, and are carried over the dam during periods of high flow. These sediments, combined with sediments contaminated by sources below the dam, are the major sources of PCBs detected in Green Bay.
Fishing is common throughout the Fox River and Green Bay.
In 1976, commercial carp fisheries in Green Bay were severely limited due to high levels of PCBs in these fish and other high fat species of fish. Consumption advisories are still in effect for many species on the Fox River, Green Bay and Lake Michigan. Surveys indicate that a large percentage of anglers are unaware of the fish consumption advisory. AAdvisories on fish eating ineffective. Three pairs of bald eagles have nests on the Fox River and Green Bay, and use this habitat as a source of food.