Baseline Assessment of Contaminants in Sediments and Marine Biota of Northumberland Strait Nova Scotia Canada

Abstract

A bleached kraft pulp mill operating in Pictou County, Nova Scotia has discharged effluent into former tidal estuary known as Boat Harbour since 1967. After treatment in Boat Harbour, effluent is discharged into Northumberland Strait. Effluents will no longer be discharged after January 31, 2020 and remediation will start thereafter. A previous review of historical documents to identify contaminants in marine biota of Northumberland Strait found that data was insufficient to properly evaluate the baseline conditions prior to remediation. This study evaluated concentration of metals, dioxins and furans and methyl mercury in surficial sediments and marine biota (i.e. American lobster (Homarus americanus), rock crabs (Cancer irroratus), and blue mussels (Mytilus edulis) of Northumberland Strait. Results were compared to Canadian Council of Minsters of Environment and Canadian Food Inspection Agency guidelines showed limited contamination signature in sediments and marine biota of Northumberland Strait. Recommendations to have long-term monitoring is provided for remediation.