The seasonal distribution of macrobenthos and sediments chronically impacted by oil/gas field produced water.

Little is known about how climatic events (i.e. heavy rain, drought, etc.) inhibit or enhance movement of petroleum hydrocarbon laden sediments in estuarine systems and how this in turn effects the macrobenthic populations exposed to them. Seventeen collection stations were established and monitored at New Bayou, Texas, a small gradient estuary which receives petroleum products via oil/gas field produced water discharge. Hydrographic, geologic and biotic samples were taken monthly from each station during a period of reduced rainfall (May 1980 - April 1981) and during a period of heavy rainfall and subsequent bayou flushing (May 1981 - August 1981).