South African marine pollution monitoring programme 1979-1982

Abstract

A national marine pollution survey was initiated in 1974 to determine and assess the levels and effects of pollutant discharges to the marine environment of South Africa. During the period 1974-1979 impact area surveys, coastal and estuarine reference surveys as well as oceanic reference surveys were undertaken. From these, sites of major pollution concern were identified. A national marine pollution monitoring pro¬gramme was then established to monitor these areas more closely for a period of three years (1979-1982). This report details the sites studied in the programme, together with the frequency of sampling and the parameters measured. After the termination of this programme at the end of 1982 the report will serve as a background reference for the programme and these areas.