Influence of Discharge and Urbanization on the Concentration, Speciation, and Bioavailability of Trace Metals in the Raritan River, New Jersey

摘要

The Raritan River and its tributaries are a vital drinking water and recreational resource in central New Jersey. These waters also serve as disposal media for municipal and industrial wastes and urban stormwater runoff. Rapid development over the last several decades has intensified the pressures on the quality and use of Raritan waters. The concentration and speciation of ten trace metals (Ag, As, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Hg, Ni, Pb, Zn) were investigated in the Raritan Basin. From September 1985 to April 1987, one hundred twenty depth-integrated samples were collected at four locations and analyzed by Direct-Current Plasma Atomic Emission Spectrometry for concentrations of dissolved, particulate-associated, total, and suspended sediment trace metals. The concentrations of trace metals readily available, potentially available, and not available to aquatic and terrestrial biota are also reported. Discharge is the most important factor influencing the concentration and speciation of trace metals in the Raritan River and its tributaries. Seasonal variations affect speciation patterns, but have a minor impact on concentration and availability to biota. The sub-basin draining a more urbanized area in the Raritan Basin appeared to have elevated concentrations and increased biological availability of trace metals relative to less urbanized basins.