New tests find unsafe levels of toxic PCBs in 2 local rivers (Va.)

http://hamptonroads.com/2009/09/new-tests-find-unsafe-levels-toxic-pcbs-2-local-rivers-0


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In water samples, the new tests reveal excessively high levels of PCBs - polychlorinated biphenyls, a group of chemicals suspected of causing cancer in humans and animals - throughout much of the Elizabeth and portions of the James, the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality said Thursday.

Investigators earlier this year also found abnormally high levels of PCBs in parts of the Roanoke River in the western part of the state, but not as high as here.

The latest results, officials say, offer a clearer picture of how PCBs are contaminating rivers - mostly by washing off lands and waste sites, often during rain storms, and creating toxic conditions that violate state water standards.

In addition, officials say, the testing provides a better understanding of how some fish in these waters accumulate unhealthy amounts of PCBs in their body tissues, making them risky for humans to eat.

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So while the state now has a better handle on how PCBs interact with the environment, officials still are not sure where the chemicals are leaking from so they can eradicate them.

That part comes next, officials say.

"As we continue our investigation, we will focus on pinpointing sources of PCBs so we can take steps to reduce contamination levels in fish," said David Paylor, director of the state Department of Environmental Quality.

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Joe Rieger, senior scientist with the Elizabeth River Project, said Thursday's news indicates that efforts must focus on finding sources of PCBs and wiping them out.

"It's another piece we'll have to address if we are to achieve our goal of making the river swimmable and fishable by 2020," Rieger said.
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good to see they are working on the problem