The Flood of '97 has other environmental effects. They include:

Dust kicked up during cleanup may contain some bacteria that plague floodwater.

Health officials say some organisms will die when the water recedes and the mud dries, but workers are encouraged to wear masks.

Increased pests, especially mosquitos. The majority, however, do not carry communicable diseases. The national Centers for Disease Control and Prevention recommends using insect repellents containing the chemical DEET.

Oils and other petroleum products in floodwater. An East End machine shop owner last week called Clean Harbors Environmental Services of Winton Place after oil from his business reached floodwater. Clean Harbors put 400 feet of containment boom around the perimeter with only a thin ''sheen'' of oil reaching adjacent homes.

''With the amount of rushing water in the river, these kind of minor spills don't present environmental hazards,'' Clean Harbors General Manager John Stevens said.

-Tom O'Neill

COMMEMORATIVE SECTION
FLOOD STORIES
FLOOD PHOTOS