Estimation of the anthropogenic load on small rivers by the level of pollution of bottom sediments with organic matter, phosphates and iron

Summary

The results of studies on estimating the anthropogenic load on small rivers of the Vladimir region in terms of the level of pollution of bottom sediments with organic matter, phosphates and iron (III) compounds are presented. The Ilevna, Kamenka and Sodyshka rivers are characterized by different surface areas and population level of their watersheds, and by the identity of non-point sources of pollution. It has been established that water and bottom sediments of the studied watercourses are heavily polluted with organic matter, phosphates and iron (III) compounds; and, consequently they are eutrophicated. In terms of the pollution of hydroecosystems with organic matter and phosphates, the watercourses form a series: Sodyshka > Kamenka > Ilevna, and in terms of the concentration of iron (III): Kamenka > Sodyshka > Ilevna. Judging from the COD index that characterizes pollution with organic compounds, the water of the Ilevna river is dirty, and the Sodyshka and Kamenka rivers are very dirty. The ecosystems of the Sodyshka and Kamenka rivers are heavily polluted. In order to prevent hypereutrophication and degradation, cleaning their riverbeds to remove bottom sediments is proposed. A method is suggested for calculating the anthropogenic load of certain pollutants with account of their concentration in the bottom sediments and watershed area.

Key words

phosphates , anthropogenous impact , bottom deposits , small rivers , organic matter , iron (III)

Assessment of the degree of anthropogenic load in the basin of the small Alma river

Summary

The ecological state of small river basins determines the water and hydrochemical regime of larger rivers and groundwater deposits. Measures required to improve the conditions of a small river are identified on the basis of an assessment of the ecological state of its catchment basin. Spatial environmental diagnostics of the basin of the small Alma river, located in the northern part of the Bakhchisarai Region of Crimea, was carried out. The critical ecological situation in the piedmont part of the river basin has been identified. This area is located in the recharge zone of the artesian basin and poses risk as a potential source of groundwater pollution. The practical significance of this work provides for using research results for hydroecological purposes in assessing the ecological state of landscapes, monitoring the impact of anthropogenic factors on the environment, and planning recreational development of the basin of the Alma river and similar small rivers.

Key words

anthropogenous impact , small rivers , environmental diagnostics , ecological state of the river basin , catchment basin