Historical Analysis, a Valuable Tool in Community-Based Environmental Protection

A historical analysis of the ecological consequences of development can be a valuable tool in community-based environmental protection. These studies can engage the public in environmental issues and lead to informed decision making. Historical studies provide an understanding of how current ecological conditions arose, provide information to identify past pollutant inputs, identify modification or loss of habitat, help identify changes in species composition and abundance, and help in planning remediation projects. We chose New Bedford Harbor, Massachusetts, as a case study for a historical analysis. New Bedford Harbor gained attention when it was named a Superfund site because of PCB contamination, but current conditions in the harbor are the cumulative result of over 250 years of agricultural, commercial and industrial activities. Analysis of historical information about New Bedford revealed four sequential developmental periods, agriculture, whaling, textile, and post-textile, each with a distinct effect on estuarine conditions. This historical analysis illustrates how impacts to New Bedford Harbor have occurred throughout the development period, not just in recent years. It provides valuable insight in formulating remediation strategies, and is a useful tool to engage the public in environmental issues.