13-2 



maximize the utility of the data to other investigators by presenting, 

 independent of plant impact considerations , and for each component of 

 the program, a summary of study findings. 



The study program addressed harbor hydrography and the plant's 

 thermal plume as well as the following biological components : phyto- , 

 zoo- and ichthyoplankton, subtidal and intertidal benthos, fouling organ- 

 isms, epibenthic invertebrates, oyster growth, trace metals in organisms 

 and sediments, finfish and birds. Mechanisms of potential impacts of 



the 460-MW oil-fired generating station are almost entirely related to 



3 



operation of its 18 m /s (625 cfs) cooling system which adds waste heat 



9 

 to the harbor at a rate of 545 Kgal/hr (2x10 Btu/hour) at a design 



temperature increase of 8.3°C (15°F) . 



A synopsis of the results of each program is presented below in 

 a formal paralleling that of the corresponding papers ; most provide a 

 summary of characterization followed by a summary of plant impact evalua- 

 tions. 



HYDROGRAPHY AND WATER QUALITY 



Water circulation in New Haven Harbor is largely controlled by 

 tidal forces, geomorphological features, and freshwater runoff. Over 

 40% of the harbor volume is moved in and out with each tidal cycle 

 (tidal prism) . Tidal currents are strongest (averaging approximately 

 30 cm/sec [1 ft/sec]) in the deeper parts of the harbor, particularly in 

 the ship channel (Figure la) which is approximately 10 m (33 ft) deep. 

 Shoal areas are more extensive on the western than on the eastern side 

 of the harbor; consequently, tidal flushing tends to be more efficient 

 on the eastern side. Strong vertical stratification occurs only during 

 periods of high freshwater riinoff when a net seaward flow of surface 

 water sets up a return flow from Long Island Sound along the bottom. 



