What contaminants are in Bellingham Bay?

A detailed table listing the different contaminant names, sources and potential health effects.

Table with 3 columns and 8 rows.
Fecal bacteria (Enterococcus species used as indicators of other, more harmful bacteria)Illicit sewer connections to stormwater, wildlife, agricultureInfection leading to vomiting or diarrhea, can be serious for people with compromised immune systems or open cuts
Heavy metals (zinc, copper, lead, mercury, arsenic, etc.)Lumber and paper mill industries (mercury), historic landfill materialChronic exposure has been linked to problems in almost every organ system, including bone, kidney, reproductive and lung diseases, as well as cancer
Polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbons (PAHs)Wood treating industry, burning fossil fuels or plastics, coke ovensSome are likely carcinogenic, chronic exposure can lead to lung, kidney, gastrointestinal, and skin problems
Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS)Nonstick and water repellant coatings, fire extinguishing foam, many other consumer goodsImmune system suppressant in humans, hormone disruption, reproductive harm, increased cholesterol levels
Petroleum hydrocarbonsGas stations, past shipyards and marinas, paper industry, wood treating chemicals, municipal wasteCertain types cause neurological, reproductive issues and are likely carcinogenic at high exposure levels, effects of chronic exposure less understood
Dioxins and furansLumber and paper industry, past burning activitiesReproductive, developmental, immune problems, hormone disruption and cancer
OrganotinsAntifoulant paint used for ships, PVCShown in animal studies to be neurotoxic in large amounts, possible hormone disruptor
Polychlorinated biphenylsOlder plastics, electrical equipment, oilCarcinogenic in animal studies, probable human carcinogen