Lead contamination in surficial sediments from Newark Bay, New Jersey

Journal Article · Wed Jan 01 00:00:00 EST 1992 · Environment International; (United States)

DOI:https://doi.org/10.1016/0160-4120(92)90268-9· OSTI ID:7076230

Bonnevie, N L; Gunster, D G; Wenning, R J ^[1]

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1. ChemRisk, Portland, OR (United States)

Concentrations of lead were determined in surficial sediments collected from 18 locations throughout the Newark Bay, New Jersey estuary. Measured concentrations ranges from 64 mg/kg to 2.5 g/kg (dry weight). In addition, a more intensive sampling effort was conducted in two wetland areas along the Hackensack River. In these areas, concentrations ranged from 25 to 704 mg/kg. The results of these sampling efforts were compared to data from previous studies to characterize temporal trends of lead contamination. Possible sources of lead were identified based on the observed distributions. The potential for adverse effects to fish and shellfish was evaluated based on comparisons to available benchmark sediment quality criteria and toxicity guidelines. The results of this study were found to be similar to previous investigations. Concentrations of lead measured in all reaches of the estuary were found to exceed sediment quality criteria and predicted toxic effects values. The highest lead concentrations in the estuary were located adjacent to petroleum refineries, paint and pigment formulating plants, and other industrial areas. These results indicate that lead contamination of surficial sediments in Newark Bay may pose a significant threat to aquatic biota.

• OSTI ID: 7076230
• Journal Information: Environment International; (United States), Vol. 18:5; ISSN 0160-4120
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES
LEAD
ECOLOGICAL CONCENTRATION
NEW JERSEY
WATER POLLUTION
SEDIMENTS
CONTAMINATION
BAYS
POLLUTION SOURCES
SAMPLING
COASTAL WATERS
DEVELOPED COUNTRIES
ELEMENTS
METALS
NORTH AMERICA
POLLUTION
SURFACE WATERS
USA
540320* - Environment
Aquatic- Chemicals Monitoring & Transport- (1990-)