Creosote Removal in Puget Sound
A program is underway to remove creosote from the Puget Sound. Creosote has proven detrimental to the health of organisms in the sound and cleanup is primarily concerned with two methods of exposure: when aquatic organisms grow on creosote structures and when creosote washes ashore. Cleanup is anticipated to take several years.
"Unfortunately, the same mechanisms that make creosote effective at protecting wood products may be resulting in acute and chronic adverse impacts to our aquatic environment, " says Doug Sutherland, manager of the Department of Natural Resources.
By removing unused pilings from the sound before these structures end up washing ashore, contaminants will be reduced. The program will be funded by the state legislature through the governor’s Puget Sound Initiative, State Parks, the Coastal Protection Fund, NOAA’s Marine Debris Program, and private donations. Volunteers also will help with the cleanup.
Related Links:
Puget Sound Creosote Awareness Project
Spokane Review