|
|
Abstract
Okweye, P.S., T. D. Tsegaye, and K.F.
Golson-Garner. 2007. Distribution of
heavy metals in surface water of the Wheeler
Lake Basin
in Northern Alabama. JEMREST
3:91-100
DOI: 10.4029/2007jemrest3no118
Flint
Creek and Flint River are located in northern Alabama. In this study, the heavy metal
concentrations in surface water from the two watersheds were measured to
obtain baseline data of their levels. Bi-weekly stream water samples were
collected from six selected sites within the watersheds. The samples were digested
using EPA method 3015 in a closed vessel microwave and analyzed for some
selected elements of concern ( Al, Co,
Ni, Cu, Fe, Mn, Cd, As, Se,
Zn, Pb, and P), using ICP-OES (Perkin-Elmer Optima 2100 DV series). Physical
and chemical water quality parameters including heavy metal concentrations
were measured. The concentration ranges of all the metals measured were
mostly below the EPA guidelines for acceptable concentrations for drinking
water, except Al, Pb, Fe and P. The water quality parameter showed that the
dissolved oxygen (DO) concentrations in three of the sites were very low
(< 5 mg/l) and could affect aquatic organisms. The preliminary data was
statistically analyzed with ANOVA and determined to be statistically
significant (P < 0.05) for all the metals investigated. Patterns observed
were a steady increment in metal concentrations from north to south in both
watersheds. The seasonal variation was also evident that the rivers had
higher heavy metal content during winter and spring, and lower content during
summer and fall.an EPA MCL concentration table was also utilized for data
comparison. Results suggested that agriculture, past and present land use
practices, have resulted in significant adverse impacts on the study areas.
|
