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Transport of Solids in Streamflow from Coastal Plain Watersheds¹

ABSTRACT

Concentrations and loads of solids transported in runoff from seven southeastern Coastal Plain watersheds with low-gradient drainage systems were related to hydrologic patterns. Total solids (TS) concentrations in streamflow averaged 96 ± 81 mg L^–1. Concentrations were significantly lower during the December through May high runoff period. Higher TS concentrations (> 250 mg L^–1) primarily occurred following prolonged no-flow periods, which typically occur in the late summer and fall. Monthly TS loads (avg, 26.7 kg ha^–1) were largely a function of monthly runoff volume. Suspended sediment (SS) concentrations in streamflow averaged 15 ± 20 mg L^–1. Suspended sediment concentrations were significantly higher from March through August, when agricultural activity was greatest. Monthly SS loads (avg, 4.60 kg ha^–1) were also largely a function of monthly runoff volume. The dissolved component is the predominant portion of TS transported in runoff from Coastal Plain watersheds. The low sediment loads are attributed to deposition occurring within the low-gradient, heavily vegetated drainage systems.

Key Words: water quality • dissolved solids • suspended sediment • floodplains • nonpoint-source pollution

¹ Contribution from USDA-ARS, Southeast Watershed Res. Lab., P.O. Box 946, Tifton, GA 31793; in cooperation with the Univ. of Georgia Coastal Plain Exp. Stn.

² Research Hydraulic Engineer and Soil Scientist, USDA-ARS, Southeast Watershed Research Laboratory.

Received for publication November 4, 1986.

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