52 



13 



cumulative threats on a region-wide basis. The additional 

 monitoring we have suggested should provide us with an 

 opportunity to identify cumulative effects caused by both long- 

 term use of the proposed outfall and any synergistic effects of 

 other pollutant sources occurring throughout the Massachusetts 

 Bay ecosystem. 



NMFS is also working with Stellwagen Bank National Marine 

 Sanctuary staff and the EPA, Corps, U.S. Coast Guard, and other 

 agencies to develop a coordinated plan to address implementing 

 both the actions outlined in the Northern Right Whale and 

 Humpback Whale Recovery Plans as well as conservation 

 recommendations provided in various biological opinions on 

 projects in the area. We look forward to continuing this effort 

 with EPA regarding the conservation recommendations described in 

 this opinion. 



In conclusion, we are confident that, given the available 

 scientific information, conditions in Boston Harbor and 

 Massachusetts and Cape Cod bays will improve as the new sewerage 

 treatment system is completed and pollutants in the discharge are 

 reduced. However, we believe that it is necessary to implement 

 the conservation recommendations to ensure that threats are 

 assessed and minimized and to promote the recovery of endangered 

 and threatened species. 



