the results to elucidate differences between contaminant levels in 
organisms collected from the two stations. Results of these tests 
indicated that there were no statistically significant differences 
in the tissue levels of any of the trace metals measured between 
the two stations at the p<0.05 level. In all samples, the PCB 
concentrations were below the analytical detection limits (Table 
3-18). 
3.7 In-situ Diver Observations 
Photo documentation (Figures 3-54 to 3-63) and visual 
counts (Table 3-19) were employed to characterize four areas at the 
New London Disposal Site in July 1986. A diver transect over the 
central NL-I disposal mound (see Figure 2-4) showed that the 
surface of the recolonized dredged material was flat and smooth 
with no distinguishable mounds or contours resulting from 
individual scow loads of material. The area had a high number of 
mud burrows caused by lobster excavations (Figures 3-54 to 3-56). 
Extensive finfish (sea robins, winter flounder, skate) foraging 
depressions were also evident on the sediment surface. 
An observational dive in the northwest sector of the 
disposal site revealed that the surface sediments in this area 
consisted of a compact sand-silt-clay matrix ubiquitously covered 
with mats of amphipod tubes (Figure 3-59). Intermittent bare 
patches were apparently caused by fish and crustacean foraging 
activities. The overall area had relatively low topographic relief 
(less than 1 m) with occasional bowl shaped depressions up to 2 m 
in diameter. Lobsters and crabs were noted burrowing under debris 
(Figures 3-55 and 3-56) such as metal cables and rigid metal bars. 
Seven lobster burrows were‘ observed excavated into the bottom where 
slight topographic rises occurred. 
As in the northwest sector, the surface sediments in the 
northeast sector consisted of a compact sand-silt-clay matrix again 
carpeted with amphipod tubes. Occasional bare patches caused by 
foraging activities also were noted in this area. Small surface 
depressions (less than 25 cm in diameter and less than 10-15 cm in 
depth) were created as the result of crustacean (probably Cancer 
sp.) foraging. Four lobster burrows were noted in this area and 
old crustacean "grotto" structures were eroding and unoccupied. 
The conditions existing at the mussel beds in the 
southwest sector of the disposal site consisted of compact 
silt/sand with dense amphipod tube cover. Occasional excavations 
approximately 0.5 m in diameter and 3-5 cm deep indicative of 
crustacean foraging were noted in this area. Shell cover was less 
than 2%, with Mytilus predominating. The bottom topography was 
flat, and obstructions consisting of wire cable and pipe were 
observed. In addition, a large number of lobster burrows (greater 
than 12) were observed. 
31 
