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)