Modeling Biota-Sediment Accumulation Factors in Fish for AOC Habitat Restoration Projects

Session: 07. - Effects of Environmental Contamination on Fish Communities

Tom Hollenhorst, EPA Mid Continent Ecology Division, [email protected]
Joel Hoffman, US EPA Office of Research and Development, [email protected]
Lawrence Burkhard, US EPA, [email protected]

Abstract

We compiled contaminated sediment data for Dioxins and Dioxin Like PCBs for the St. Louis River Area of Concern as part of a health impact assessment for the proposed Kingsbury Bay – Grassy Point Habitat Restoration project.  To incorporate potential Biota-Sediment Accumulation Factors for fish we identified 30 Dioxin and Dioxin-like PCB compounds that were measured from samples gathered throughout the St. Louis River AOC.  Toxic Equivalent Factors (TEFs) and Mean Biota-Sediment Accumulation Factors (BSAF) were identified for each compound and combined with Total Organic Carbon (TOC) from each sample to calculate Dioxin Toxic Equivalent Factors (TEQ) for fish.  This was then input into a fish habitat/occupancy model to assess the possible health impacts of the planned restoration via potential changes in consumption advisories within the restoration project area.

1. Keyword
fish toxins

2. Keyword
environmental ethics

4. Additional Keyword
Areas of concern