Temporal and spatial variability of metal distributions in Staten Island marsh-creek systems: Does connectivity to the Arthur Kill impact anthropogenic enrichment, sediment quality and toxicity potential in NY/NJ he marsh habitats

The Arthur Kill is a polluted urban waterway situated between Staten Island, New York and New Jersey. It is unknown if this tidal strait serves as a significant source of trace metals to Staten Island marsh habitats, via redistribution and exchange, and thereby contributing to the substantial metal contamination found in sediments within these areas. Although loadings into the Arthur Kill have declined in recent years, the combination of historic impacts, modern point and non-point sources, and low flushing rates make this waterbody a sink for pollutants. Contaminated sediments are susceptible to remobilization via tidal action and shipping/dredging activities. Consequently, this may transport metals bound to suspended particles to neighboring areas, with subsequent uptake and toxicity to resident biota.;The primary goals of this dissertation research was to characterize spatial and temporal trends in sediment metal (Cd, Hg, Cu, and Zn) contamination in salt marshes adjoining the Arthur Kill; and examine the distribution and tidal transport of pollutants between the Arthur Kill and upland marsh habitats along the western shore of Staten Island, New York. Insight concerning temporal and spatial change within marsh habitats will aid in tracking success of current water quality initiatives targeting this severely impacted waterway. Research into the exchange of metals in polluted estuarine areas similar to this system is essential from a restoration standpoint and is a crucial step in gaining an overall understanding of metal transport and redistribution within this highly industrialized and ecologically important system.