A graphical screening method for assessing stream water quality using specific conductivity and alkalinity data

被引：19

作者：

Kney, Arthur D. ^{[1
]}

Brandes, David ^{[1
]}

机构：

[1] Lafayette Coll, Acopian Engn Ctr, Dept Civil & Environm Engn, Easton, PA 18042 USA

来源：

JOURNAL OF ENVIRONMENTAL MANAGEMENT | 2007年 / 82卷 / 04期

基金：

美国国家科学基金会;

关键词：

alkalinity; specific conductance; graphical method; base flow and water quality;

D O I：

10.1016/j.jenvman.2006.01.014

中图分类号：

X [环境科学、安全科学];

学科分类号：

08 ; 0830 ;

摘要：

in areas of varying geology, it is difficult to infer water quality from specific conductance or electrical conductivity (EC) data without an understanding of the expected range of EC values based on local bedrock composition. This paper describes a user-friendly graphical screening method that addresses this issue by plotting the EC against concurrent alkalinity data, which correlates well with the presence of carbonate bedrock under natural conditions, and thus serves as an index of bedrock type. The upper limit of EC vs. alkalinity expected in a stream is determined using regional groundwater quality data, based on the assumption that stream chemistry reflects groundwater under baseflow conditions. Stream samples with EC/alkalinity values that consistently plot above this limit are considered impacted by anthropogenic sources. The effect of dilution and runoff on the EC vs. alkalinity plot of stream samples is considered using a simple baseflow/storm runoff-mixing model. The graphical method's utility as a screening tool is demonstrated by application to stream chemistry data from watersheds of southeastern Pennsylvania and northwestern New Jersey in several distinct geologic settings; however the method is general and widely applicable to watersheds in humid temperate regions. Its use is intended for watershed stewards of both professional and nonprofessional qualification. (c) 2006 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.

引用

页码：519 / 528

页数：10