| Popis: |
This article reports the results of a study of recreation-related surface water pollution in a mountain recreation area. Water samples were obtained over summer seasons in and near heavily used public recreation sites of the Indian Peaks Wilderness area in Colorado, U.S.A. The samples were tested for various chemical and biological constituents and compared with samples from a watershed closed to recreation. The results indicated an inter-dependence of inorganic nutrient levels with stream flow. Highest values for suspended solids, total phosphorus, total organic carbon, and nitrate-nitrogen concentrations occurred during the early spring and summer runoff. Nitrate-nitrogen concentrations also decreased downstream in recreationally-affected watersheds and highest values occurred in the recreationally-controlled watershed. Alkalinity and pH were found to increase both downstream from recreation and as recreation increased through the summer season. Lead levels found in one watershed where vehicular traffic occurred in the past indicate retention of lead through time in these high-altitude ecosystems. Potential natural sources of lead and an apparent removal phenomena by reservoirs warrants further study in the recreationally-controlled watershed. Bacteria counts were highest during low stream flow, during intense precipitation events that "flush" the watershed, and during and after major holiday weekends when recrea- tion was at a maximum. Although results indicate no human body waste contamination of the surface waters, a variety of recrea- tionally-derived pollution was observed in the water. Water purification prior to drinking appears essential. |
