731 
however, is not significantly different from:that related to 
land application, a potential problem which has been mitigated 
by proper management controls. Development of similar controls is 
feasible for recycle through ocean application. Studies around 
various application sites which emphasize disposal rather than 
recycle operations have shown conflicting results.14,15,16,17 
None of the studies, however, have presented evidence indicating 
that significant problems exist.14,15,16,17 Further studies are 
needed to develop management strategies which will insure that 
no problems with bioaccumulation occur. 
Public health concerns with respect to ocean application 
apparently do not pose any problems. The literature indicates 
that the ocean environment is toxic to most, if not all, patho- 
genic organisms. Studies have shown the presence of a strong 
viral inactivation mechanism in sea water which limits survival of 
viruses to less than three days.18,19 Therefore, migration of viruses 
from the site of wastewater solids application should not occur. 
Studies around active sites such as the New York bight off Delaware 
Bay have shown that wastewater solids application increases bacterial 
levels in the immediate vicinity of the site for only short periods 
after application. 14>20,21,22,23 
In summary, the literature supports beneficial recycling of 
wastewater solids-borne nutrients in the ocean. This is particularly 
Significant in light of the fact that the data were derived from 
projects which emphasized disposal rather than recycle operations. 
There is considerable need for studies designed to develop general 
