This report presents data pertinent to analyzing alternative Federal policies for regulating the discharge of human wastes from recreational watercraft. The study indicates that low compliance with the current marine sanitation device (MSD) regulations is the result of deliberate resistance, uncertainty about the finality of the current regulations, and doubt that the regulations will be effectively enforced. The report indicates that pleasure boats, particularly when congregated in relatively slow-moving waters, such as marina basins or inlets with minimal current or tidal action, can produce unacceptable fecal coliform concentrations. This is of particular concern because shellfish can accumulate sewage-borne microorganisms, rendering the shellfish unacceptable for human consumption. Of the two major disinfectant chemicals commonly used in MSD's (chlorine & formaldehyde), only chlorine has been shown to be toxic in the aquatic environment, but only in discharges from large shore-based facilities, such as sewage treatment plants.

"April 17, 1981." "EPA contract no. 68-01-6347, work assignment 1."