Elevated levels of arsenic, mercury, zinc, lead, polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs), and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) were apparent in river sediments in highly urbanized areas, such as Boston, Mass. and Providence RI. All of these contaminants were detected at concentrations exceeding guidelines for the protection of aquatic life. Levels of organic compounds, such as the gasoline additive MTBE and solvents used in industrial cleaners, were below drinking water standards and guidelines, but were still frequently found in ground waters used for drinking.
Major Findings on River Quality and Ecosystems
"We were surprised to find that the quality of streams begin to degrade earlier than we thought as watersheds develop. Because of this finding, stream protection measures need to be in place even in the more rural areas of New England where development is beginning to occur," said Keith Robinson, USGS Hydrologist and principal investigator of the study. Study results indicated that:
Major Findings in Ground Water
"These results indicate the need for regular testing of ground water supplies, especially those from private water wells used by individual homes, since these contaminants were often found," said Robinson.
The USGS assessment is part of a national program currently releasing results on streams and ground water in 14 additional major river basins and aquifer systems. Findings of regional and national interest are highlighted in a separate report "Water Quality in the Nation's Streams and Aquifers--Overview of Selected Findings, 1991-2001." Check the status and availability of these reports on the NAWQA Web site, http://water.usgs.gov/nawqa/ as well as accessibility to other publications and national data sets and maps.
Copies of the USGS report, "Water Quality in the New England Coastal Basins," published as USGS Circular 1226, are available at no cost by writing the USGS Branch of Information Services, Box 25286, Denver Federal Center, Denver, CO 80225 (or by calling 1-888-ask-usgs). The report also can be accessed on the World Wide Web at http://water.usgs.gov/nawqa/nawqa_sumr.html
The USGS serves the nation by providing reliable scientific information to describe and understand the Earth; minimize loss of life and property from natural disasters; manage water, biological, energy, and mineral resources; and enhance and protect our quality of life. To receive USGS news releases go to www.usgs.gov/public/list_server.html