Source: Chronic releases of numerous hazardous substances from multiple sources have occurred since the early 1900s. Known sources include shipbuilding operations, oil storage and transfer facilities, gasification facilities, chemical manufacturing facilities, various port operations, stormwater discharge systems, and other sources.

Release: PAHs, PCBs, pesticides, TBTs, metals, and other classes of contaminants.

Primary Injury:

The Natural Resource Trustees have formally adopted a Preassessment Screen for the Portland Harbor site for further consideration by the authorized officials in making their determination of whether or not to proceed with a NRDA for the site. Although primary injuries have not been identified to date, analyses of existing water, sediment, tissue, and bioassay data indicate that natural resources have potentially been affected by releases or discharges contaminants.

These resources include, but may not be limited to: aquatic-dependent mammals such as mink and river otter and species they depend on as prey items; migratory birds, threatened and endangered species; anadromous and resident fish; reptiles and amphibians; aquatic invertebrates and plants; and ground and surface water. Services that are provided by these natural resources include, but are not limited to: habitat for trust resources, including food, shelter, breeding, foraging, and rearing areas, and other factors essential for survival; resource use; hunting and fishing; non-consumptive uses such as wildlife viewing and photography and other outdoor recreation activities; primary and secondary contact activities such as swimming and boating; and cultural, spiritual, and religious uses.