Publication Summary

Ecology conducted a Class II inspection at the ITT Rayonier pulp mill at Hoquiam on May 23-25, 1988. The mill was meeting all effluent permit limits during the inspection although effluent quality was very poor. High effluent toxicity was observed in the Pacific oyster bioassay (EC50 of 0.2% effluent). No specific cause of the toxicity was determined. Silver and copper exceeded EPA′s water quality criteria. Other contaminants did not exceed criteria. Several factors combined to render near-field sediment analyses inconclusive. Recommendations were made in the areas of laboratory procedures, plant operation, and future sampling.