Modeling Tools Used for Mercury TMDLs in Georgia Rivers
Author(s)
Ambrose, Robert B.
Wool, Tim A.
Advisor(s)
Editor(s)
Hatcher, Kathryn J.
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Abstract
Total maximum daily loads (TMDLs)
were developed for mercury in six south Georgia rivers
and the Savannah River. Mercury is introduced to these
rivers by atmospheric deposition, watershed runoff, and
small point source loadings. To produce mercury
TMDLs in these rivers, the GIS-based Watershed
Characterization System (WCS) and a mercury delivery
spreadsheet were developed and applied with the water
pollutant fate model WASPS. Together, these models
calculate mercury buildup in watershed soils, loading and
delivery through the watershed tributary system, and
mercury fate in the main stem rivers. These models were
applied to six south Georgia rivers and checked against
survey data gathered during drought conditions in June,
2000. Despite environmental variability and scientific
uncertainties, calculated mercury concentrations in soils,
sediment, and water compared reasonably well with the
observed data. Example calculations from the Upper
Ochlockonee River are given here.
Sponsor
Sponsored and Organized by: U.S. Geological Survey, Georgia Department of Natural Resources, Natural Resources Conservation Service, The University of Georgia, Georgia State University, Georgia Institute of Technology
Date
2001-03
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Resource Type
Text
Resource Subtype
Proceedings