The distribution of suspended matter in the northeastern Gulf of Alaska is affected by a number of parameters which combine to form a unique distribution pattern. East of Kayak Island the surface particulate matter distributions are dominated by the discharge of sedimentary material from the coastal streams which drain the Beering, Guyot and Malaspina Glaciers. The major source of sedimentary material to the Gulf of Alaska is the Copper River. In general, concentrations of suspended matter in the northeast Gulf of Alaska are high at the surface with an average concentration of approximately 1.0 mg/l. Recent studies of oil spills in coastal waters containing high suspended loads have indicated rapid dispersal and removal of the oil by sorption onto particles along frontal zones.