Development of a risk-based approach for management of an estuarine watershed

Conference · Sun Dec 31 04:00:00 EST 1995

OSTI ID:460539

Schulten, J; McConnell, R; DeMott, R ^[1]

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1. Parsons Engineering Science, Tampa, FL (United States)

Although Tampa Bay has relatively low to moderate levels of most toxicants when compared to other urban estuaries, recent assessments indicate that several groups of toxicants are found in relatively high concentrations in Tampa Bay sediments and may contribute to estuarine sediment toxicity or potential human health risks. The Toxic Contamination Sources Assessment Project for the Tampa Bay national Estuary Program evaluated potential risks associated with sediment contaminants of potential concern in priority areas of Tampa Bay. A conceptual model was developed to present representative ecological and human receptors and likely exposure scenarios. Sediment chemistry data on metals, pesticides, PAHs, and PCBs from a number of previous studies were compiled and used to calculate exposure point concentrations and receptor-specific exposure rates. The selected receptors were considered to have both direct and food-web exposure to sediment contaminants. Exposure rate calculations reflect the position of each receptor in the food web and the potential for bioconcentration and bioaccumulation of the contaminants. For ecological receptors, a hazard quotient estimate was made, while for the human receptor, both carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic risk were calculated. The risk estimates indicated that the levels of several metals in Tampa Bay sediment appear to represent priorities for further analysis and for focusing management decisions. By evaluating sources and loadings of the contaminants of concern as well as their potential risk, a risk-based approach to management of sediment contamination is being developed for the bay and its watershed.

• OSTI ID: 460539
• Report Number(s): CONF-961149--
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES
ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACTS
ESTUARIES
FLORIDA
HEALTH HAZARDS
POLYCHLORINATED BIPHENYLS
POLYCYCLIC AROMATIC HYDROCARBONS
RISK ASSESSMENT
URBAN AREAS
WATER POLLUTION