^ 



been determined by the States to be economically attainable, can and have 



been used in the decision-making process to determine what reductions in 



pollutant loading are needed and over what time period they may be 

 reasonably made. 



The types of pollution abatement already discussed have produced 

 significant water-quality improvements in the Hudson estuary during the past 

 decade. Dissol ved-oxygen levels have increased in most parts of the 

 estuarine complex. Shellfishing has been partially reopened in some areas 

 of Raritan Bay, Sandy Hook Bay and the Navesink and Shrewsbury Rivers. 

 Anadramous fish and crustaceans have returned to areas long devoid of such 

 organisms. 



However, much remains to be accomplished in order to meet our water- 

 quality goals. The regulation and control of non-point sources of 

 pollution, stormwater outfalls, and combined sewer outfalls are issues 

 addressed by the Act requiring a significantly greater focus by EPA in the 

 future. This is especially important in light of findings by NOAA that 

 combined outfall discharges, stormwater discharges, streamflow, and non- 

 point sources account for over 50 percent of the pollutant loads to the 

 Hudson estuary. The identification of specific sources and potential 

 control measures have been initiated through Section 208 and other planning 

 processes. However, if treatment is to be provided, elaborate storage 

 facilities will be required. Also, because of the low concentrations of 

 pollutants involved, specialized treatment processes, often innovative, will 



