SYMPOSIA PAPER Published: 01 November 2012
STP104258

Remediation of River Sediments Containing Dioxins and Other Chemical Compounds as Part of a Large Watershed Restoration Project

Source

This paper reviews ongoing, long-term remediation of river sediments containing dioxin and other chemical compounds in a large water-shed in the Great Lakes Region. Chlorinated dibenzo-p-dioxins (CDDs) are a “family” of chemically related compounds commonly known as chlorinated dioxins or simply, dioxins. The highest levels are usually found in sediments, soil, and animal fats. The most toxic chemical in this group is 2, 3, 7, 8-tetrachlorodibenzo-para-dioxin (2, 3, 7, 8-TCDD), which is the “standard” to which other dioxins are compared and which has been shown to be very toxic in animal studies. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and Michigan Department of Environmental Quality have made a lengthy effort to assess and remediate portions of the Saginaw Bay Watershed, including the Tittabawassee River. Specifically, the EPA-proposed “phased approach” to restoration and remediation of a short segment (Segment 1) of the Tittabawassee River sediments is reviewed. Sediments are contaminated with a number of chemical pollutants other than dioxins, including arsenic, cholorbenzenes, cholorphenols, ethyl parathion, o-phenylphenol, and PAHs. Evaluation of three proposed “cleanup alternatives” are made, with a final action method suggested based on effectiveness, implementability, and cost.

Author Information

VanHouten, J., W.
Biology/Science Division, Delta College, MI, US
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Details
Developed by Committee: D18
Pages: 126–135
DOI: 10.1520/STP104258
ISBN-EB: 978-0-8031-7564-8
ISBN-13: 978-0-8031-7540-2