USGS to present environmental research at SETAC meeting

USGS said scientists from its Eastern Ecological Science Center and collaborators will present findings at the Society of Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry North America 47th Annual Meeting in Montreal, Quebec, Canada, from November 2-5, 2026. Conference organizers expect more than 1,000 presentations across 80 oral platform sessions and daily poster sessions.

On November 3, 2026, USGS will present geospatial tools designed to identify priority watersheds at risk from sources of 6PPD-quinone, also known as 6PPDQ. The tire-derived chemical is linked to urban runoff syndrome in salmon and trout. The tools summarize national datasets and apply expert-driven weights to map potential hotspots across millions of catchments. Ongoing work is refining the heat indices with improved data, field validation and fish vulnerability information.

USGS and partners also presented research intended to improve avian chemical exposure assessment. The work addresses limitations in current models, including the oversimplification of bird biology and behavior. It integrates species-specific traits, ecological data and behavioral plasticity to improve predictions of exposure and risk for birds.

On November 4, 2026, USGS and partners reported that contaminated sediment remediation was significantly associated with improved biological outcomes in tree swallow nestlings. The analysis used public Great Lakes Restoration Initiative project data and biomarker responses. It also identified issues in data tracking and accountability that could guide future restoration investments and coordination among partners.

USGS and partners are studying PFAS contamination in diamondback terrapins from populations across New York, New Jersey, Delaware, Maryland and North Carolina. They analyzed blood samples, PFAS concentrations and biomarkers related to immune, metabolic and organ health. The study found regional differences in exposure and identified potential links between PFAS and terrapin health. The findings are intended to guide state wildlife agencies.

On November 5, 2026, USGS and the U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service will present work on the ecological risks of candidate shot used in waterfowl hunting. The research evaluates substitute shot materials for birds, other wildlife and habitats in the U.S. It also addresses copper hazards to aquatic invertebrates and options for harmonizing evaluation processes across jurisdictions. USGS and partners also are investigating responses in American kestrels exposed to a simulated aqueous film-forming foam mixture containing PFAS.