Contaminant Residues in Demersal Fish, Invertebrates, and Deployed Mussels in Selected Areas of the Puget Sound, WA

Introduction A clear understanding of contaminant levels in biota, the potential impact from exposure, and how contaminants accumulate and biomagnify through the food web is needed to protect threatened and endangered species, make meaningful decisions about cleanup of contaminated sediments and hazardous waste disposal sites, accurately assess and implement control of persistent, bioaccumulative, and toxic (PBT) pollutants, and assure the healthiness of seafood harvested from the Puget Sound. Ultimately, the effectiveness of cleanup and restoration programs, success of pollution abatement initiatives, and the potential impact of stormwater and other sources of contaminants on the health of the Puget Sound will be reflected in the well-being and condition of the plants and animals that live, feed, and forage in the waters of Puget Sound.