Sponsored by
U.S. GEOLOGICAL SURVEY
with support from
U.S. FOOD AND DRUG ADMINISTRATION
Recent studies by the U.S. Geological Survey have revealed the presence of pesticides, pharmaceuticals and other chemicals in a significant number of sampled streams and rivers. These contaminants, along with other emerging threats, are suspected of having measurable impacts on human and wildlife health—in some places male fish are producing eggs, amphibians are experiencing high levels of birth defects, and fish advisories are being issued.
RNRF’s 2005 Congress identified problems and unintended consequences of emerging contaminants. Specific issues examined included: 1) efficacy of the existing regulatory framework; 2) research and monitoring needs; 3) impacts on human and wildlife health, and impacts on ecosystems; and 4) public information and education needs. Contaminant types examined included: pesticides and metabolites/degredates (featuring synthetic pyrethroids), pharmaceuticals, nanoparticles, and industrial chemicals (featuring brominated flame retardants).