Bioeffects Assessment Quantifies Extent of Sediment Contamination, Toxicity, and Natural Stressors in Kachemak Bay
The National Centers for Coastal Ocean Science have released a report that provides chemical contaminant, toxicity, and benthic organism information useful for management planning efforts and understanding the ecosystem of Kachemak Bay, Alaska.
Although the main portion of Kachemak Bay was relatively uncontaminated, elevated contaminant levels were found locally in Homer Harbor and Port Graham. The elevated levels found in Port Graham are an important find as residents use the surrounding ecosystem as a source of subsistence foods. Also, glacial meltwater is a major stressor to the system which has implications relative to global warming.
Partners included the Cook Inlet Regional Citizens Advisory Council, North Pacific Research Board, and Native Alaskan organizations.
Related NCCOS Center(s): CCMA
Related Region(s): Alaska
Shorter web link for sharing: http://coastalscience.noaa.gov/news/?p=2021
