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Seasonal and spatial variation of diffuse (non-point) source zinc pollution in a historically metal mined river catchment, UK

Mayes, W.M.; Gozzard, E.; Mayes, Will; Potter, H.A.B.; Jarvis, A.P.

Authors

W.M. Mayes

E. Gozzard

H.A.B. Potter

A.P. Jarvis



Abstract

Quantifying diffuse sources of pollution is becoming increasingly important when characterising river catchments in entirety e a prerequisite for environmental management. This study examines both low and high flow events, as well as spatial variability, in order to assess point and diffuse components of zinc pollution within the River West Allen catchment, which lies within the northern England leadezinc Orefield. Zinc levels in the river are elevated under all flow regimes, and are of environmental concern. Diffuse components are of little importance at low flow, with point source mine water discharges dominating instream zinc concentration and load. During higher river flows 90% of the instream zinc load is attributed to diffuse sources, where inputs from resuspension of metal-rich sediments, and groundwater influx are likely to be more dominant. Remediating point mine water discharges should significantly improve water quality at lower flows, but contribution from diffuse sources will continue to elevate zinc flux at higher flows.

Citation

Gozzard, E., Mayes, W., Potter, H., & Jarvis, A. (2011). Seasonal and spatial variation of diffuse (non-point) source zinc pollution in a historically metal mined river catchment, UK. Environmental pollution, 159(10), 3113-3122. https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envpol.2011.02.010

Journal Article Type Article
Acceptance Date Feb 3, 2011
Online Publication Date May 10, 2011
Publication Date 2011-10
Journal Environmental Pollution
Print ISSN 0269-7491
Publisher Elsevier
Peer Reviewed Peer Reviewed
Volume 159
Issue 10
Pages 3113-3122
DOI https://doi.org/10.1016/j.envpol.2011.02.010
Keywords Flux; Mine drainage; Sediment; Water Framework Directive; Zinc
Public URL https://hull-repository.worktribe.com/output/409474
Publisher URL https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S0269749111000844?via%3Dihub#!