Widespread chemical dilution of streams continues as long-term effects of acidic deposition slowly reverse
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- Data Release: USGS data release - Measurements of Acid-Neutralizing Capacity, Conductance, and Calcium Concentrations in Adirondack Headwater Streams of New York, 1988 to 2022
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Abstract
Studies of recovery from acidic deposition have focused on reversal of acidification and its associated effects, but as recovery proceeds slowly, chemical dilution of surface waters is emerging as a key factor in the recovery process that has significant chemical and biological implications. This investigation uses long-term chemical records from 130 streams in the Adirondack region of New York, USA, to evaluate the role of ongoing decreases in conductance, an index of dilution, in the recovery of these streams. Stream chemistry data spanning up to 40 years (1980s–2022) showed that acid-neutralizing capacity has increased in 92% of randomly selected streams, but that harmful levels of acidification still occur in 37% of these streams. Conductance and Ca2+ concentrations decreased in 79% of streams, and SO42− concentrations in streams continued to show strong decreases but remained several times higher than concentrations in precipitation. These changes were ongoing through 2022 even though acidic deposition levels were approaching those estimated for pre-industrialization. Further dilution is continuing through ongoing decreases in stream SO42−. Nevertheless, Ca2+ continued to be leached from soils by SO42−, organic acids and NO3−, limiting the replenishment of available soil Ca2+, a prerequisite to stem further dilution of stream water.
Publication type | Article |
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Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
Title | Widespread chemical dilution of streams continues as long-term effects of acidic deposition slowly reverse |
Series title | Environmental Pollution |
DOI | 10.1016/j.envpol.2023.123273 |
Volume | 343 |
Year Published | 2024 |
Language | English |
Publisher | Elsevier |
Contributing office(s) | New York Water Science Center |
Description | 123273, 10 p. |
Google Analytic Metrics | Metrics page |