Geochemical reactions in UK aquifers from cattle slurry contamination

摘要

Farm waste stores such as cattle slurry lagoons are widespread in the UK, with many overlying the principal aquifers. Stores constructed prior to new legislation pose a serious risk to potable water quality through the infiltration of slurry containing a cocktail of potential groundwa-ter contaminants. Two sites on the Cretaceous Chalk aquifer have been studied in detail. Results show high concentrations of nitrogen species, organic carbon and an active microbial community. Distinct differences in the geochemistry between sites are noted and most likely reflect store design and the extent to which a seal has formed at the lagoon base. Both scenarios are shown to be impacting on the local aquifer system after nearly two decades of use.