24 



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jointly by NOAA and EPA prior to such dumping at the 106-inile 

 site. We have already agreed to make such an effort if the 

 decision is reached to initiate sewage sludge dumping in that 

 area. 



in sum, rescoratioii Ot ai. leaot aiyiiirit^aill. xiuf i-uvciueiii. 



of environmental quality in the New York Bight is a realistic 

 and desirable goal. Valuable though a long-term, comprehen- 

 sive plan for accomplishing this goal would be, we don't have 

 to await its development before conditions in the Bight could 

 be improved. If ocean disposal of sewage sludge is to be 

 continued, then data show that use of the 106-mile site is 

 environmentally preferable to continued use of the 12-mile site. 

 Continued ocean dumping research is of utmost importance, as 

 is development and implementation of a monitoring plan for the 

 106-mile site if sewage dumping is initiated there. 



Mr. Chairman, this concludes my prepared remarks. My 

 colleagues and I will be glad to respond to the Committee's 

 questions. 



