Files
Abstract
At the Linden Chemicals and Plastics (LCP) Superfund Site in Brunswick, Georgia, chemical discharges have contaminated the Turtle-Brunswick River Estuary (TBRE) for over 25 years. Polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and mercury are among site contaminants, and a PCB mixture, Aroclor 1268, is a recognized site pollutant. Previous studies documented persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic (PBT) chemicals in TBRE wildlife, including Atlantic Bottlenose dolphins (Tursiops truncatus), and their prey. The TBRE is subject to fishing advisories, but studies suggest some anglers are consuming whole fish counter to advisory recommendations. To identify concentrations of PBTs to which humans and dolphins are exposed, and to assess advisory adequacy, three species of fish—southern kingfish (Menticirrhus americanus), Atlantic croaker (Micropogonias undulatus), and star drum (Stellifer lanceolatus)—were sampled within and outside of the TBRE. Results confirmed high concentrations of PCBs and total mercury, suggesting advisory boundaries should be expanded and additional management strategies be implemented.