You are here:
LOWER COEUR D'ALENE RIVER, IDAHO. TOXICITY AND BIOAVAILABILITY STUDIES OF LEAD AND OTHER ELEMENTS, 1989
Description:
This study was done following reported high waterfowl deaths and illnesses in the Coeur dAlene River and Lake system, Idaho (17010301, 17010303). Abundant evidence documents extensive contamination of the Lower Coeur dAlene River drainage with mining and milling wastes. The deposits contain an array of potentially toxic elements, most notably lead, cadmium, and zinc. The deposits are physically and chemically stabilized to varying extents. On the basis of their sheer volume and extensive distribution, the deposits have substantial potential to disrupt living systems, but that potential is seldom expressed as a result of the apparently low biological availability of the lead. The condition could be described as hazardous, low risk for wildlife. Krieger, R.I., Ph.D. 1990. Technical Bulletin 90-3. Bureau of Land Management, Boise, ID. 82 pp.