Assessing Ecological Risk Using Exposure Response Models. The Allen Harbor Case Study
Abstract
Exposure-response models were developed as the final phase in a multiyear case study to assess risks to marine ecosystems in Allen Harbor, RI associated with land-based hazardous waste sites. These models were developed for acute and chronic responses of marine species exposed to sediments, sediment extracts, and ground water associated with a landfill adjacent to Allen Harbor. Serial dilutions of these media were characterized chemically and presented in the laboratory to seven species representative of taxa found in the harbor. The toxicological endpoints generally responded in a classic sigmoid fashion with increasing exposure medium concentration, although variation was observed in endpoint sensitivity. The resulting exposure-response models will be useful in defining ecological risk at current chemical stressor concentrations, in identifying remediation levels required to reduce risk to acceptable levels, and in predicting future risk associated with changes in stressor concentration.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Nov 01, 1992
- Accession Number
- ADA265652
Entities
People
- Christina Mueller
- R. K. Johnston
- W. R. Munns Jr.
- William G. Nelson
Organizations
- Naval Command, Control and Ocean Surveillance Center