The marine disposal of sewage sludge and dredge spoil in the waters of the New York Bight

Abstract

The dumping of sewer sludge and dredge spoil in the waters of the New York Bight and the effect of this waste disposal practice on the marine environment is reviewed. The. quantities and composition of these wastes is described together with their physical, chemical and biological effects on the environment. At the center of the sludge dump the bearing capacity of the waters has been exceeded and an anoxic bottom area devoid of life formed. Both spoli and sludge contain large quantities of toxic heavy metals and the spoil also contains large quantities of petrochemicals and pesticides.