Prevention

The best way to protect our natural resources from the threat of contamination is through prevention.  To prepare for responding to emergency hazardous materials spills, pre-spill planning is a part of our job.  We also review pesticide permits and water quality criteria to make sure they are protective of our resources.

Investigations

Biologists in our Environmental Contaminants Program monitor the health of fish and wildlife at our National Wildlife Refuges.  In addition, we examine known and potential sources of pollution that may affect fish and wildlife resources. To view a list of field studies and reports, click here.

Spill Response, Natural Resource Damage Assessment, and Restoration

Our Contaminants Program works with state and federal agencies to protect fish and wildlife during a spill event.  In addition, we assess damages to natural resources so that habitats impacted by contaminant releases can be restored.

Depicted below is an example of a restoration project in the North Fork John Day River Basin.

Technical Assistance

Contaminants biologists provide technical expertise to the private sector,as well as state and and other governmental agencies, on topics including: ecological risk assessment, water quality, superfund sites, pesticide use and registration, endangered species issues, and National Wildlife Refuge assessments and cleanups.

Items of Note

How to Report a Chemical or Oil Spill

Spill Incidents
New Carissa
Johnson Creek

Kids in Nature

Amphibian Surveys
Students assist with field surveys.

Upcoming Project

Herbicide Use in Endangered Butterfly Habitat

SMARxT
SMARxT Disposal Website
Responsible Medication Disposal Safeguards Lives and Protects the Environment

News Release
Medicine Disposal Partnership will Encourage Public to Flush Less, Crush More
(3/17/08)

Extoxnet
The Extension Technology Network
A source of objective, science-based information about pesticides written for the non-expert.

Pollinators

Pollinator Portal
Birds, bees, and bats are critical to the production of most fruits and vegetables.