Using Biomarkers to Monitor Remedial Actions at a Subtidal Estuarine Site Severely Contaminated with Polynuclear Aromatic Hydrocarbons

Abstract

Extensive scientific evidence indicates that polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs) and their derivatives are responsible for a variety of serious biological effects in marine fish exposed to such compounds. While much of this information is derived from laboratory studies, there is an increasing body of evidence from field studies supporting these relationships between PAH exposure and biological damage. Several of the most definitive field studies in this regard have been done in Puget Sound, Washington, where one of the most heavily PAH-contaminated sites is Eagle Harbor, on the east side of Bainbridge Island. Studies done by NOAA scientists over the past decade have shown that flatfish residing in Eagle Harbor are at increased risk of developing serious toxicopathic liver diseases, including cancer, and of exhibiting impaired reproductive function and altered physiological responses. The USEPA completed a Remedial Investigation/Feasibility Study, and in December 1991 proposed a phased cleanup of the harbor. In June 1993, under Superfund Removal authority, the USEPA recommended placement of uncontaminated material over the most contaminated area of Eagle Harbor; in late September of 1993 the USEPA began placement of this sediment cap as a means of 1) controlling transport of contaminants; 2) isolating contaminants from marine biota; and 3) providing clean habitat for benthic organisms, thus reducing overall risk of exposure to the contaminants contained in the sediments. This capping process was completed in March 1994, resulting in placement of an approximately three foot thick cap of clean sandy material and associated wood debris over an original area of ca.