After three years of studies, including "complex computer models," scientists for Washington's Hood Canal have concluded that septic systems discharging waste into the the lower arm of the canal are likely the cause for dropping oxygen levels, writes Christopher Dunagan in the Kitsap Sun.
The Hood Canal Dissolved Oxygen Program has been seeking to remove the Hood Canal from Washington's "impaired waters" list, specifically by addressing exceedingly low levels of oxygen in the waterway, which can have detrimental effects on marine wildlife. While the proposed "action plan" to decrease nitrogen levels notes a variety of pollution sources, human waste makes up one tenth of the nitrogen in the lower Hood Canal. One of the proposed remedies is to replace current septic systems with ones that discharge the waste into forestsinstead.
The debate over whether septic systems are to blame for depleting Hood Canal's oxygen levels is a long one, and one that InvestigateWest's own Robert McClure has covered. A 2008 Seattle Times article found that currents entering Hood Canal from the ocean are the largest source of nitrogen to the canal. Nitrogen-releasing alder trees, which are prolific in the area due to heavy logging, also overshadow nitrogen levels released by human activity.
While the final report on the Hood Canal research is not due until next year, initial findings will be presented Sept. 16. Meanwhile, construction on a $40 million sewage-treatment plant is scheduled for fall.
The story you just read is only possible because readers like you support our mission to uncover truths that matter. If you value this reporting, help us continue producing high-impact investigations that drive real-world change. Your donation today ensures we can keep asking tough questions and bringing critical issues to light. Join us — because fearless, independent journalism depends on you!
“They knew he was dying,” says his wife, who wasn’t told until it was too late
Get the inside scoop in your inbox, free.
Subscribe to our weekly newsletters and never miss an investigation.
TRIPLE your gift today!
From now until Dec. 31, NewsMatch and a generous local donor will each match community donations, matching your new monthly donation 12 times or TRIPLE your new one-time gift, all up to $1,000.
