Oswego River

As a result of human health concerns, production of mirex ceased in 1976, at which time industrial releases of this chemical to surface waters were also curtailed. However, releases from waste disposal sites continue to add mirex to the environment. Virtually all industrial releases of mirex were to surface waters, principally Lake Ontario via contamination of the Niagara and Oswego Rivers. About 75% of the mirex produced was used as a fire retardant additive, while 25% was used as a pesticide. As a pesticide, mirex was widely dispersed throughout the southern United States where it was used in the fire ant eradication program for over 10 years. 

Yin C, Hassett JP. 1989. Fugacity and phase distribution of mirex in Oswego River and Lake Ontario waters. Chemosphere 19(8-9) 1289-1296. 

Between 1959 and 1975, 1.5 million kg of mirex were sold, of which 74% or more than 1.1 million kg were predominantly Dechlorane, a compound used in flame-resistant polymer formulations of electronic components and fabrics. The total amounts are only approximate because almost half the mirex sold from 1962 to 1973 could not be accounted for. Mirex loadings to Lake Ontario were estimated at 200.0 kg per year in 1960-62, which decreased to 28.0 kg in 1980. Mirex entered Lake Ontario mainly from the Niagara River and Oswego River. About 700.0 kg of mirex were present in the bottom sediments of Lake Ontario in 1968, 1600.0kg in 1976, and 1784.0 kg in 1981. All fish species in Lake Ontario were contaminated with mirex, and concentrations in half the species exceeded... 

Linus was on his way home after visiting his grandparents in the little river town of Oswego, a few miles south of Portland. He treasured these visits with his fathers parents, a kind couple who still spoke with strong German accents. They had taken special care of their only grandson after his... 

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