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Project Title: Occurrence and effects of endocrine active chemicals/pharmaceuticals in St. Croix River Tributaries
Project Number: NQ00EEM - MN 272
Project Chief: Kathy Lee
Project Start Date: October 2010
Project End Date: September 2013
Cooperator: National Park Service
Project Collaborators: St. Cloud State University, University of St. Thomas

Study Objectives: Measure total estrogenicity and 17 beta estradiol of stream water at 20-25 waste water treatment plants (WWTPs) effluent discharges throughout the St. Croix Basin. Measure a subset of the sites during different hydrologic periods. Based upon the results from the total estrogenicity assay, measure concentrations of selected compounds in WWTP effluent and in receiving waters and sediments at 5-6 locations along a gradient in total estrogenicity within the Basin. Measure wild caught and caged fish responses at each of the stream locations to better understand of the effect these compounds on the aquatic health of the river and tributaries.

Progress for FY11: USGS staff and project collaborators cooperated to determine the occurrence, fate, and effects of endocrine active chemicals and pharmaceuticals in tributaries to the St. Croix River that receive wastewater effluent. GIS data bases were assembled and wastewater treatment plant personnel were contacted to complete the site selection process. Effluent samples were analyzed for total estrogenicity at the University of St. Thomas and for 17 beta estradiol ( E2) at the USGS laboratory in Mounds View. A subset of sites was selected for additional sampling that included Hinckley, New Richmond, Amery, River Falls, Ogilvie, Harris, North Branch and Chisago Lakes. The additional sampling included measurements of stream discharge, basic water-quality parameters, samples for total estrogenicity and E2 at each upstream, effluent, and downstream location, and collection or investigation of organisms for analyses. The two sampling periods varied in season and hydrologic condition. Samples were analyzed and assured for data quality assurance.

Statement of Work for FY12: Final site selection will be completed. The intensive sampling will occur at these sites which will include measurements of stream discharge, basic water-quality parameters, samples for total estrogenicity and E2, other hormones, alkylphenols, pharmaceuticals, and other chemicals associated with wastewater at each upstream, effluent, and downstream location, and collection or investigation of organisms for analyses.