Significance of Biological Study
While harbor improvements have occurred over the years (e.g. updating sewage treatment plants in 1980), past studies have shown that the benthos in New Haven Harbor are still disturbed (NAI 1985)
Additionally, organic loading, storm activity, and commerce are considered to be the main activities of such disturbance.
Therefore, due to the high level of industrialization already present in the harbor, it would be difficult to determine the repercussions on the benthic community if an additional commercial use were added; in this case, the Galleria at Long Wharf.