What are the Primary Sources of PCBs in the Hudson River?
The primary sources of PCBs (Polychlorinated Biphenyls) in the Hudson River are the two capacitor manufacturing plants operated by General Electric (GE) in Fort Edward and Hudson Falls, New York. Between 1947 and 1977, these plants released approximately 1.3 million pounds of PCBs into the river. PCBs were used in the manufacture of electrical devices, such as transformers and capacitors, due to their ability to withstand high temperatures.
How do PCBs Accumulate in Fish?
PCBs accumulate in fish through a process called bioaccumulation, where they build up in the environment and increase in concentration as they move up the food chain. Once PCBs enter the river, they are deposited and mixed with the sediments at many locations on the river bottom and along the shoreline in the floodplain. Fish species with PCB concentrations of less than 1 ppm have been found to experience biochemical changes, including the feminization of males, reduced egg survival, increased susceptibility to disease, and growth of tumors.
What is the Current Status of PCB Cleanup Efforts in the Hudson River?
The cleanup efforts for the Hudson River PCBs Superfund site began in 2002 with the issuance of a Record of Decision (ROD) by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). The ROD called for targeted environmental dredging of approximately 2.65 million cubic yards of PCB-contaminated sediment from a 40-mile section of the Upper Hudson River from Fort Edward to Troy, NY. Between 2009 and 2015, 2.75 million tons of contaminated sediment was removed from areas with particularly high PCB concentrations in the upper Hudson River. However, despite these efforts, PCBs remain in the upper Hudson, and the results of the dredging have had a lower-than-anticipated effect on the upper Hudson and nearly no impact on the lower Hudson River (below the Troy Dam).
What Hudson River Excursions are Available for Visitors?
For those interested in learning more about the Hudson River and its PCB contamination, several tour options are available:
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Hudson River Sloop Clearwater: This environmental education organization offers sailing trips and educational programs focused on the history and ecology of the Hudson River. Their programs include discussions on PCB contamination and its impact on the river’s ecosystem.
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Riverkeeper: This organization offers guided boat tours and educational programs that highlight the importance of protecting the Hudson River and its wildlife. Their programs include information on PCB contamination and the ongoing cleanup efforts.
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EPA Hudson River PCBs Superfund Site: The EPA offers guided tours and educational materials for those interested in learning more about the cleanup efforts and the impact of PCBs on the Hudson River ecosystem.