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Estimation of dynamic load of mercury in a river with BASINS-HSPF model

  • SOILS, SEC 5 • SOIL AND LANDSCAPE ECOLOGY • RESEARCH ARTICLE
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Abstract

Purpose

Mercury (Hg) is a naturally occurring element and a pervasive toxic pollutant. This study investigated the dynamic loads of Hg from the Cedar–Ortega Rivers watershed into the Lower St. Johns River (LSJR), Florida, USA, using the better assessment science integrating point and nonpoint sources (BASINS)-hydrologic simulation program—FORTRAN (HSPF) model.

Materials and methods

The site-specific BASINS-HSPF model was developed for dynamic loads of Hg based on watershed, meteorological, and hydrological conditions. The model was calibrated and validated with existing field data. It was then applied to predict the daily and annual loads of Hg from the watershed outlet into the LSJR in response to rainfall events and water fluxes.

Results and discussion

In general, the predicted average daily total Hg flux during the 10-year simulation period was about 0.69 g ha−1 year−1. This finding was within the range of 0.22–1.41 g ha−1 year−1 reported in the Florida Everglades area. Simulations further revealed that the effects of rainfall events on Hg loading were significant, particularly in a very wet period. A maximum total Hg flux was predicted during this wet period at a rate of 122.59 g ha−1 year−1.

Conclusions

Results from this study provide a useful case study on estimating Hg contamination in watersheds. The approaches used in this study could be transferred to estimate the dynamic loads of Hg in watersheds from other regions.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. USDA Forest Service, 100 Stone Blvd., Thompson Hall, Room 309, Mississippi State, MS, 39762, USA

    Ying Ouyang

  2. Department of Water Resources, St. Johns River Water Management District, P.O. Box 1429, Palatka, FL, 32178-1429, USA

    John Higman

  3. Department of Forestry, Mississippi State University, Mississippi State, MS, 39762, USA

    Jeff Hatten

Authors
  1. Ying Ouyang
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  2. John Higman
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  3. Jeff Hatten
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Corresponding author

Correspondence to Ying Ouyang.

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Responsible editor: Winfried Schröder

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Ouyang, Y., Higman, J. & Hatten, J. Estimation of dynamic load of mercury in a river with BASINS-HSPF model. J Soils Sediments 12, 207–216 (2012). https://doi.org/10.1007/s11368-011-0426-4

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  • DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/s11368-011-0426-4

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