Mobilisation, alteration, and redistribution of monosulfidic sediments in inland river systems

M. D. Cheetham, V. N L Wong, R. T. Bush, L. A. Sullivan, N. J. Ward, A. Zawadzki

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

2 Citations (Scopus)

Abstract

The accumulation of monosulfidic sediments in inland waterways is emerging as a major environmental issue. Mobilisation and suspension of monosulfidic sediments can result in deoxygenation, acidification of the water column and mobilisation of trace metals. The controls on monosulfidic sediment mobilisation and the critical thresholds for its scour and entrainment have not been established. This study examines the effect of a minor flood event (average return interval of 5 years) on sulfidic sediment scour in the Wakool River in southern NSW, Australia. Five profiles were sampled within a small (~300 m) reach before and after a minor flood event to determine the degree of sediment scour and transport. The results indicate substantial scour of both monosulfidic sediments and underlying bed sediments (approximately 2100 m3). Changes in the sediment geochemistry suggest large concentrations of monosulfidic sediments had been suspended in the water column, partially-oxidised and redeposited. This is supported by 210Pb results from one of the profiles. These results suggest that these monosulfidic sediments can move as bed load during minor flood events.

Original languageEnglish
Pages (from-to)330-339
Number of pages10
JournalJournal of Environmental Management
Volume112
DOIs
Publication statusPublished - 2012
Externally publishedYes

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Mobilisation, alteration, and redistribution of monosulfidic sediments in inland river systems'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this