River banks and channels as hotspots of soil pollution after large-scale remediation of a river basin

摘要: Abstract Riparian areas are highly dynamic systems where the control of soil pollution might be particularly challenging. Limited accessibility to river banks and bed sediments makes reclamation operations difficult in these topographical positions, comparison floodplains. This usually leads large-scale spread pollutants following episodes riparian areas. Here, we aimed evaluate persistence trace-element soils Guadiamar River Valley (SW Spain), a remediation after mine-spill. We monitored topsoil along basin, different positions across section (river channel, floodplain), 16 years episode subsequent program. channels were identified as hotspots pollution, soluble concentrations As, Cd Zn significantly higher than Along pH carbonate content was variable result contrasted geological background, differential loads sulfide deposition accident irregular effectiveness applied amendments. Cadmium showed highest levels long-term re-distribution from source. The results suggests that stabilization channels, often overlooked when achieving works, should priority for land managers.