14 



- 4 - 



of the various inputs and identified gaps in data. Since 

 publication of that report, a number of studies have been 

 conducted that add to, confirm or clarify portions of those 

 data. NOAA and EPA are presently compiling and assessing the 



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contaminant inputs to the New York Bight. The updated esti- 

 mates will be provided in EPA's testimony today. 



Generally, where comparisons are possible, the data indi- 

 cate a decrease in total loadings to the Estuary since our 

 1976 study. For example, suspended solids have been reduced 

 by 30%, mercury by 66% and chromium by 10%. Whether these 

 reductions are real or are attributable to better data cannot 

 be determined at this time. Assuming that some of the de- 

 creased inputs to the Estuary are real, they are probably 

 consequences of upgraded treatment of wastewater discharges. 

 Upon completion of the aforementioned studies, data analysis 

 will allow refinement of estimates of pollutant inputs into 

 the Apex from the Estuary. 



Effects of Contaminants on New York Bight Resources 



The most important contaminant effects documented in the 

 Bight are upon individuals or particular species of living 

 marine resources. Anatomical or physiological abnormalities 

 and localized losses of species have been reliably attributed 

 to contaminants. There are fewer illustrations of how 



