Biological effects of sand and gravel mining in the Lower Bay of New York Harbor : an assessment from the literature

Abstract

from the scope, "This overview is designed to provide, an assessment of potential biological effects of sand and gravel mining in the Lower Bay Complex of New York Harbor. This assessment is made from the currently available literature concerning distribution and abundance of organisms in the Lower Bay Complex in relation to what is known about effects associated with sand and gravel mining/dredging operations. In particular, the effects of suspended sediments on various organisms will be examined. Most of the literature regarding potential suspended sediment effects on Lower Bay organisms is derived from studies conducted elsewhere. The assessment encompasses suspended sediment effects on benthic infauna (e.g., shellfishes, worms, and other burrowing animals) and epibenthic fauna, including amphipods, crustacea, and demersal fishes. Other effects associated with mining/dredging operations, e.g., release of contaminants and nutrients from sediments, also are examined. . ."