A King County study of Lake Washington’s lakebed sediment shows levels of PCBs, the once common and dangerous chemical are expected to fall below currently detectable levels within the next two decades. Researchers say the findings reaffirm the effectiveness of regulations and personal actions and offer a strategy for addressing emerging environmental threats, including stormwater pollution.

The pilot study, including lakebed coring conducted by scientists aboard the King County research vessel SoundGuardian, also showed how the techniques for collecting and analyzing samples could be used in other research projects to detect human-caused changes in environmental conditions.

“The research conducted by our scientists on the sediment layers beneath Lake Washington sends an unmistakable message: The best way to protect people, fish, and wildlife from harmful chemicals is to stop their production and use,” said Executive Constantine. Read more.