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A throughfall collection method using mixed bed ion exchange resin columns
Mark E Fenn1, Mark A Poth, Michael J Arbaugh
1USDA Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Research Station, Forest Fire Laboratory, 4955 Canyon Crest Drive, Riverside, CA 92507-6099, USA. mfenn@deltanet.com
Thescientificworldjournal
|June 14, 2003
Summary
A new ion exchange resin column method simplifies measuring forest ionic deposition. This cost-effective technique requires fewer samples, making forest floor nutrient analysis more accessible.
Area of Science:
- Environmental Science
- Forest Ecology
- Analytical Chemistry
Background:
- Ionic deposition in forest throughfall is crucial for understanding nutrient inputs to forest ecosystems.
- Conventional throughfall collection methods are labor-intensive and costly due to frequent sampling and analysis requirements.
- Developing efficient and cost-effective methods for monitoring atmospheric deposition is essential for ecological research.
Purpose of the Study:
- To develop and validate a novel throughfall collector system utilizing mixed bed ion exchange resin columns.
- To reduce the labor and cost associated with measuring ionic deposition in forest throughfall.
- To provide a more practical method for long-term monitoring of nutrient inputs to forest ecosystems.
Main Methods:
- A throughfall collector system employing a mixed bed ion exchange resin column was designed and tested.
- Bulk deposition and throughfall samples were collected, and ions were retained on the resin.
- Retained ions (nitrate and ammonium) were extracted using 2 N KCl and subsequently analyzed.
- Ion exchange sampler results were compared with conventional throughfall solution collectors at high and low deposition sites.
Main Results:
- Ion exchange samplers showed no significant difference in deposition values compared to conventional collectors over 3- and 4-month periods.
- Nitrogen (N) deposition in throughfall was substantially higher at the high deposition site (Camp Paivika) than at the low deposition site (Barton Flats).
- Fog drip was identified as a significant source of N deposition at the Camp Paivika site.
- Bulk deposition rates in open areas were considerably lower than throughfall deposition rates at both sites.
Conclusions:
- The ion exchange resin column method provides a reliable and efficient alternative for measuring ionic deposition in forest throughfall.
- This method significantly reduces sampling frequency and associated costs, making long-term monitoring more feasible.
- The study highlights the importance of fog drip as a major nitrogen input pathway in certain forest environments.
- Accurate measurement of atmospheric deposition is critical for understanding forest ecosystem dynamics and health.