New approaches to tracking sources of contaminant loadings to Hamilton Harbour

Session: 04. - Restoring Hamilton Harbour: Tilting at Windmills or a Possible Dream?

Julie Vanden Byllaardt, Hamilton Harbour Remedial Action Plan, [email protected]

Abstract

Hamilton Harbour is known for unprecedented levels of contaminants, but it is not always clear what sources should be targeted to reduce contaminant loadings so that the Harbour will recover and meet its water quality goals. The Remedial Action Plan Office has tracked contaminants and their sources for over 30 years using techniques with various levels of sophistication. In this presentation I give the latest update (2008-2016) in loadings for: Total Phosphorus, Total Suspended Solids, Total Ammonia, Total Nitrate, Metals, Cyanide, and Polycyclic Aromatic Hydrocarbons (PAHs). Tracked sources include Steel Mills, Wastewater Treatment Plants, Combined Sewer Overflow Systems, creeks, and flow between Cootes Paradise and the Harbour. Continued reduction of contaminant loadings will be necessary for delisting this Area of Concern, as contaminant loadings tie to nearly all Beneficial Use Impairments of the Harbour.

1. Keyword
Hamilton Harbour

2. Keyword
pollution sources

3. Keyword
management