Erosion of the Alberta badlands produces highly variable and elevated heavy metal concentrations in the Red Deer River, Alberta.

摘要: Erosion is important in the transport of heavy metals from terrestrial to fluvial environments. In this study, we investigated riverine metal (Cd, Cu, Hg and Pb) dynamics Red Deer River (RDR) watershed at sites upstream (n=2) downstream (n=7) Alberta badlands, an area naturally high erosion. At draining total water column Cd, Pb concentrations frequently exceeded guidelines for protection freshwater biota. Furthermore, peak Cd (9.8μgL-1), Cu (212μgL-1), (649ngL-1) (361μgL-1) were higher than, or comparable to, values reported rivers streams heavily impacted by anthropogenic activities. Total suspended solids (TSS) explained a large proportion (r2=0.34-0.83) variation RDR tributaries fluxes dominated particulate fraction (60-98%). Suspended sediment (Csed) aluminum ratios generally not indicative substantial enrichment. Rather, highly variable elevated function which characterize river system. While impact on aquatic biota requires further investigation, suggest erosion badlands may be contributing Hg-based fish consumption advisories RDR. Importantly, highlights broader need information contaminant watersheds subject rates