Abstract |
The seven pulp and paper mills considered in the report discharge large quantities of process wastes into estuarine waters in four areas of Puget Sound. Greatest concern is the toxic effects of pulping wastes on marine life. Sludge deposits formed by settled waste solids are commonly found in the vicinity of waste discharge. These are usually anaerobic and produce toxic and odorous gases. There is the problem of aesthetic impairment of water quality by colored, odorous, and turbid mill wastes. The document studies in detail the following areas: Everett Harbor and Port Gardner; Guemes Channel, Padilla Bay in the vicinity of Anacortes; Whatcom Waterway at Bellingham; Port Angeles area. |