EPA to Begin Sediment Sampling in Detroit River
The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, in cooperation with the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality, began testing the sediment in Detroit River for toxic pollutants this morning. They will look for things such as mercury and other metals as well as PCBs that could harm aquatic life.
They will begin their work in the upper mile of the Trenton Channel, which is south of Detroit and upstream from the Black Lagoon. A boat and crew will sample all next week, weather permitting. The Wyandotte Municipal Boat Ramp will serve as their staging area.
Polluted sediment is a major reason why many fish from the Great Lakes are not safe to eat in unlimited quantities. Sediment contamination also harms aquatic life and habitat and pollutes sources of drinking water.
