Designed bioactive organic contaminants (BOC), including pharmaceuticals, have been detected in surface waters at GRSM, raising concerns for sub-lethal effects and potential apical impacts, including reproductive success, in sensitive aquatic populations in the park. Because of high visitation, the impacts of pharmaceuticals and other BOC in individual waste releases are also substantial concerns for aquatic biota in numerous streams connected by the many high-use trails at GRSM.

This study will help BOC risk management activities at GRSM by assessing BOC occurrence and distribution and the predicted potential for BOC adverse aquatic effects.