DREDGING RESEARCH: Assessing Significance of Contaminant Bioaccumulation: A Biological-Effects-Based Approach

摘要

Dredging activities are federally regulated under the Clean Water Act 404b1 and the Marine Protection Research and Sanctuaries Act 103. These acts require biological evaluations to determine suitability of dredged material sediment for placement in open water. Included are assessments of biological effects resulting from presence of chemical contaminants, as well as the extent of bioaccumulation of contaminants. Specifically, 40 CFR section 227.6 - requires that bioassay results on the solid phase of the dredged material do not show significant mortality or sublethal effects, and that no significant undesirable effects caused by chronic toxicity or bioaccumulation of contaminants of concern will be found.