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Water quality changes in a polluted stream over a twenty-five-year period
1Division of Plant and Soil Sciences, West Virginia Univ., Morgantown, WV 26506-6108, USA.
Journal of Environmental Quality
|April 24, 2003
Summary
Water quality in Deckers Creek, West Virginia, has improved significantly since 1974 due to reduced mining and land reclamation efforts. However, untreated mining discharge and sewage inputs still impact water quality in certain areas.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Water Quality Assessment
- Ecosystem Restoration
Background:
- Deckers Creek watershed in West Virginia has a history of industrial pollution.
- Water quality was assessed in 1974 and again in 1999-2000 to track changes over 25 years.
Observation:
- Water samples were analyzed for pH, acidity, alkalinity, metals (iron, calcium, aluminum, manganese, zinc), and fecal coliform bacteria.
- Significant reductions in acidity and metal concentrations were observed across most sampling points.
- pH levels increased, particularly at the creek's mouth.
Findings:
- Overall water quality improved, with acidity and iron decreasing by an average of 70% in upper sections.
- Decreased mining activities and land reclamation efforts contributed to water quality improvements.
- An untreated mining discharge point continues to pollute the lower stretches of the creek.
- Improved water chemistry revealed previously masked biological contamination from sewage.
Implications:
- Environmental regulations and reclamation projects have positively impacted water quality.
- Ongoing monitoring and remediation are necessary to address remaining pollution sources.
- Further reclamation efforts are expected to continue improving watershed health.