The overall objective of the study was to develop fundamental data and information relating to the effect of discharges from the Connecticut Yankee Atomic Power Company (CYAPC) plant on the aquatic environment so as to permit a more scientific evaluation of the disposal process. Specifically, the authors sought to determine baseline populations of bacteria, phytoplankton and chemical conditions existent in an area of the Connecticut River prior to plant operation with which to compare observations following initiation of power generation.