Summary of Maryland Stream pH and Alkalinity Data: Analysis of Its Application to Assessing the Impacts of Acidic Deposition

摘要

Stream chemistry data were gathered from a number of sources to characterize the sensitivity of flowing waters in Maryland to acidification, as well as to provide baseline information for the design of a synoptic survey of stream chemistry conducted in 1987. Overall, 19% of Maryland streams, for which data were collected, exhibit mean alkalinity values of less than 200 micro eq/L, generally considered to be indicative of waters sensitive to acidification. Minimum alkalinity values less than 200 micro eq/l were found in 41% of the data sets examined. Mean pH values less than 6.0 have been observed in about 9% of the streams for which data were identified. Minimum pH values less than 6.0 were observed in 24% of the streams.