If EPA determined there is enough contamination in the creek and wetland to warrant further aquatic studies for fish and turtles, why would this not be a health concern for children and adults who swim or fish in the creeks?

Surface water and sediment data from Muckinipattis and Darby Creek were compared to EPA’s human health screening levels and all contaminants were below screening. 

Aquatic organisms show adverse effects from exposure to contaminants more readily than humans because these organisms have 24-hour direct contact with contaminated media (soil, surface water, etc.) and they are much smaller than humans in respect to body weight. As a result, ecological screening levels are often lower than human health screening levels.    

Fish consumption could present a risk to both adult and child consumers, which EPA will continue to investigate as part of the Lower Darby Creek NPL site investigation.