Effects of dredged channels on trace-metal migration in an estuary

Journal of Research of the U.S. Geological Survey
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Abstract

Determination of trace-metal levels in the sediments of the Matagorda Bay system revealed anomalously high mercury values. The distribution of the mercury-rich sediment deposits is the result of the sedimentological regime of the bay system produced by the tidal currents in the dredged channel. According to this model, the oxygenated open gulf water pushed into the bay by tidal currents activates the mercury and reintroduces it into the sediment regime of the bay in an area where the turbidity maximum is most prevalent. Within this region, the absorption sites are at a maximum, tying up the mercury. The mercury-enriched suspended material is then transported and deposited according to the hydraulic regime within the bay system.

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Publication type Article
Publication Subtype Journal Article
Title Effects of dredged channels on trace-metal migration in an estuary
Series title Journal of Research of the U.S. Geological Survey
Volume 5
Issue 2
Year Published 1977
Language English
Publisher U. S. Geological Survey
Description 9 p.
First page 243
Last page 251
Country United States
State Texas
Other Geospatial Gulf of Mexico, Matagorda Bay, Matagorda Island
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