In November 1984, the NWHL was assigned the task to:
"Prepare a report of bald eagle mortality from lead poisoning and other causes. Determine whether primary causes of lead poisoning are due to ingestion of lead shot pellets. Prepare an appropriate map showing eagle concentrations and location of death. Make management recommendations."
This report is the response to that task. Report organization follows a sequence of: background information, findings, discussion, conclusions, recommendations, and references."