Showing papers on "Water quality published in 1968"

Linear programming applied to water quality management

Abstract: Linear programming is applied to the management of water quality in a river basin. The charge is to select the efficiencies of the treatment plants on the river that will achieve the dissolved oxygen standards at a minimum cost. The objective function is structured in terms of the costs of the treatment plants. The principal constraints prevent violation of the dissolved oxygen standards. A simplified version of the Willamette River in Oregon is studied, using the linear programming formulation, and the results are compared with those obtained by dynamic programming. The effects of changes in the dissolved oxygen standards are explored by use of the dual variables.

Biological parameters of water quality criteria

Abstract: exists in this approach, since physical and chemical parameters generally are easily defined. However, chemical substances which affect the quality of water are numerous, act in a great range of concentrations, and vary continuously and erratically in concentration. Chemical surveys indicate stream conditions only at the times of sampling and occasional spills of highly concentrated wastes are not easily detected. The attempt to establish chemical criteria in terms of toxicity to aquatic organisms is fraught with difficulties and, indeed, may prove to be impossible. The great host of potentially toxic compounds, the vast numbers of species of organisms, the innumerable interaction effects among compounds, and the wide range of effects produced by variations in temperature, dissolved solids, pH, and other physical and chemical factors produce permutations which may exceed the capability of adequate testing. Further, results obtained in the laboratory usually are not transferable to the field, where numerous other environmental conditions may produce unpredictable and unaccountable effects. When wastes are highly treated, chemical testing may not reveal any evident pollutional qualities. However, the receiving stream may be adversely affected by such effluents. Toxic substances too low in concentration to be detectable on a practicable basis may seriously affect populations of aquatic organisms. We propose here a meaningful approach to the establishment of water quality criteria by the evaluation of biological conditions existing in receiving streams.

Geophysical Surveys in the Vicinity of Sanitary Landfills in Northeastern Illinoisa

Abstract: Electrical earth resistivity and soil temperature surveys have been conducted in the vicinity of four sanitary landfills in northeastern Illinois to test the possibility of detecting and tracing any chemical or temperature alteration of ground water by leachates from buried refuse. Reference data on water quality, levels, and movement were provided by a system of monitor wells drilled for a hydrogeologic study of the landfills. The resistivity survey, which was in homogeneous silty sand outwash, traced mineralized water from the landfill for a distance of more than 1000 feet. Apparent resistivity values were one fourth those obtained from unaffected areas. Interpretations of direction of ground-water flow and location of discharge boundaries from the geophysical data agree vith interpretations based on the monitor well data. The soil temperature survey indicated the presence of a halo of higher temperatures around the landfill and indicated areas of surface recharge. The geophysical surveys show, in general, that chemically altered water is traceable in uniform earth materials where the depth of the water table is constant.

Advances in water quality improvement

Abstract: Advances in water quality improvement , Advances in water quality improvement , مرکز فناوری اطلاعات و اطلاع رسانی کشاورزی

Flow of Ground Water Adjacent to Small, Closed Basins in Glacial Till

Abstract: During a recent field investigation, the flow of ground water was examined in the vicinity of three closed basins in glacial till in an area receiving approximately 34 inches average annual precipitation. Piezometric data indicate that during the period of study one of these basins was continually a ground-water discharge area, whereas the others alternated between recharge and discharge. The water table rose adjacent to all three of the basins at some time during the study. Comparison of hydrographs of piezometers, precipitation data, and the level of the marshes within the closed basins indicates a variable effect of precipitation on fluid potential and marsh level. Basin area and shape influence the alternation of a given basin between recharge and discharge conditions. Water quality data suggest that all three of the basins examined have had either surface water or ground-water outlets at some time, although not during the period of study.

Guide to the use of pond systems in South Africa for the purification of raw and partially treated sewage

Abstract: CSIR Special Report WAT 34, January 1968. This report has since been in great demand. It has also been reprinted for the Jerusalem International Conference on Water Quality and Pollution Research, June 1969, and further reprints were made by the Ann Arbor Science Publishers, Inc., PO Box 1425, Michigan 48106, USA

Water Quality Analysis of the Delaware River Estuary

Abstract: A mathematical model is developed for the Delaware River Estuary between Trenton and Reedy Island. The model provides a satisfactory engineering tool to assess the efficacy of various proposals for improvement of water quality. The principal factors affecting Delaware River water quality are the oxidation of carbonaceous and nitrogenous waste loadings, the benthal demand of bottom deposits, and background water quality in the system. The analysis specifically highlights the importance of nitrification on water quality in river systems receiving waste discharges. It is anticipated that as waste treatment methods are instituted in the Delaware Basin, the reduction in the carbonaceous demand may foster intrification in areas where it does not presently exist during the summer. The analysis of winter data indicates good correlation of observed dissolved oxygen distributions assuming oxidation of carbonaceous BOD to be the only active demand on the system. The analysis demonstrates the pronounced relationship between waste loading location and water quality. It may be practical from an engineering viewpoint to construct collection and treatment facilities on a basin-wide scale with ultimate disposal at some downstream location.

Hydrobiological studies of the river sabarmati to evaluate water quality

Abstract: 1. The waters at S1 and S2 were unpolluted as shown by the following characters: — (a) presence of high D.O., (b) low temperature, (c) low, turbidity, (d) low alkalinity., (e) low-chlorides (less than 5.5 PPM), (f) low phosphates (less than 0.5 PPM), (g) low B.O.D. (less than 2 PPM), (h) presence of clean water organisms, (i) and absence of polluted water organisms. 2. The waters at S3 and S4 were polluted due to (a) low or complete absence of D.O., (b) high temperature, (c) high turbidity, (d) high alkalinity, (e) high chlorides (more than 5.5 PPM), (f) high phosphates (more than 0.5 PPM), (g) high B.O.D. (more than 2 PPM), (h) absence of clean water organisms, (i) presence of polluted water organisms. 3. S4 is the highly polluted station due to (a) complete absence of D.O., (b) maximum values of temperature, turbidity, alkalinity, chlorides, phosphates, and B.O.D., (c) maximum number of polluted water organisms.

Temperature and water-quality conditions of the Patuxent River estuary, Maryland, January 1966 through December 1967

Abstract: The effect of power plant cooling water in raising natural water temperatures at a location near the power plant on the Patuxent River estuary is clearly evident from thermograph records. Surface temperature at a station 333 m (1,000 ft) downstream from the discharge canal was raised an average of about 4 C, and at times by as much as 8 C. Temperature rises were greatest during the winter. Infrared imagery showed that elevated surface temperatures could be detected about 5.5 km (3 nautical miles) upstream at flood tide. Temperature profiles obtained from airborne radiation equipment revealed a complicated surface temperature pattern and also showed the effects of density differences and wind action on the steam-electric station (S.E.S.) effluent plume. Mean annual salinity for a 5-year period (1963–1967) was highest in 1966, about 12.3 ‰, and lowest in 1967, about 9.9‰. Dissolved oxygen values for 1966–1967 ranged from 3.2 to 15.6 mg/l, and saturation ranged from 55 to 152%. Turbidity levels were inversely related to salinity, with the highest annual, mean of 28 JCU (Jackson Candle Units) occurring in 1967, the lowest salinity year. The extreme tide range was 2.1 m (6.7 ft); mean water levels at the Patuxent Bridge were highest in summer and lowest in winter. Water stages are more affected by wind speed and direction than by flow in the river.

Relations between soil management and the quality of surface- and groundwater supplies

Abstract: 1. Urban and industrial waste waters, farm effluents, soil and fertilizer born nitrate and phosphate may impair the water quality in streams, groundwater bodies and lakes by oxygen deprivation and high salt contents, nitrate accumulation and eutrophication. In this paper the hygienic aspect as well as the problem of urban waste disposal were left aside, only the influence of farming upon the water quality has been discussed. 2. Farm effluents include liquid manure, manure piles runoff and silo effluents which are too concentrated and carry too high a BOD load to allow processing in treatment plants. Parts of these liquids may contaminate water courses, and enter sewage systems. Improved technology and economical help will be required to foster the safe utilization of these liquids on the land. 3. High nitrate contents in drinking water are known to have caused sometimes fatal methemoglobinemia in infants. In the Federal Republic 3.7% of the public water works supply water that contains more than 50 mg/l NO3. 4. Sources of nitrate are: urban and industrial waste waters, cesspools, farm effluents and the toplayer of cropland. Annual leaching losses of a few to 40 and more kg/ha N(NO3−) from the soil have been reported. The soil solution frequently contains nitrate concentrations in excess of the drinking water standard. 5. However, whether this will cause objectionable concentrations in drinking water supplies depends upon the share of cropland in an area and upon the local hydrological conditions. Management measures are available to partially cut nitrate leaching. 6. Phosphorus is the critical factor for eutrophication. In the watershed area of the Stockacher Aach which empties into the Lake Constance, the amount of phosphorus that originates from soils and fertilizers depends on petrographical and pedological conditions rather than upon management. Soil born phosphorus plays only a minor role in enhancing the eutrophication of the Lake. This may be different in other areas where rocks and soils do not contain limestone or where erosion is higher. 7. Nitrogen presently is not considered to be a limiting factor for the eutrophication of the Lake Constance, although the element is required for production. From a predominantly rural area most of the nitrogen input into the Lake is soil born. In 1963 it amounted to 112 t N(NO3−) from 242 km2. However there are also tributaries which carry high amounts of nitrogen that originates from urban wastes. 8. There exists no general answer as to the influence upon the quality of water supplies of farm effluents; soil born nitrate and phosphate. This rather has to be assessed according to the local conditions (share of cropland, types of soils and rocks, management, handling of farm wastes etc.) within a watershed area.

Forest Harvesting and Water Management

Abstract: Forest harvesting affects water management. Total water yield, flow regime and water quality are affected. Usually, in Western Canada, these effects — whether for good or ill — are accidental and a...

An Integrated Monitoring System for Water Quality Management in the Ohio Valley.

Abstract: ORSANCO robot monitor system consists of 14 field stations, central receiving station and data processing center. Information on water quality is telemetered automatically from the field stations each hour. Water quality characteristics measured include pH, oxidation-reduction potential, chlorides, dissolved oxygen, temperature, conductivity and solar radiation. Utilizing the system developed for the Ohio Valley, it has been possible to provide a more accurate appraisal of daily river conditions, to trace spills and accidental discharges for the protection of downstream water users, and to forecast changes in quality. The data also permit the evaluation of different levels of waste treatment, under changing flow patterns, using real data. The experience gained and costs incurred in using the present system form a basis for projecting requirements for future needs.

Effect of Drought on Stream Quality in New Jersey

Abstract: Five consecutive years of drought (1961-66) have had a pronounced effect on the water quality of New Jersey's streams. This is illustrated by comparison of cumulative departures of precipitation and streamflow and of 12-month moving-average analysis of systematically collected water-quality information at stream-sampling sites in the major river systems in the State. The deficiencies of precipitation and streamflow during the drought are shown to have a definite relation to several water-quality parameters. Abnormally high dissolved-solids content, coliform-bacteria counts, and biochemical oxygen demand are shown to occur, as are abnormally low dissolved oxygen and suspended-sediment content, and further intrusion than normal of saline waters into estuarine areas. In general, the maximum deterioration of the water-quality parameters described was observed in late 1965 and early 1966.

Ground‐Water Flow Related to Streamflow and Water Quality

Abstract: A ground-water flow system in southwestern Minnesota illustrates water movement between geologic units and between the land surface and the subsurface. The flow patterns indicate numerous zones of ground-water recharge and discharge controlled by topography, varying thicknesses of geologic units, variation in permeabilities, and the configuration of the basement rock surface. Variations in streamflow along a reach of the Yellow Medicine River agree with the subsurface flow system. Increases and decreases in runoff per square mile correspond, apparently, to ground-water discharge and recharge zones. Ground-water quality variations between calcium sulfate waters typical of the Quaternary drift and sodium chloride waters typical of the Cretaceous rocks are caused by mixing of the two water types. The zones of mixing are in agreement with ground-water flow patterns along the hydrologic section.

River basin simulation program

Abstract: : The set of programs and options described in the study provide a versatile new approach to river basin planning for water quality management. Although water quality relationships are the primary considerations of the calculations performed here, the programs are very general and can be manipulated to consider many water uses. Since water quality strongly effects all uses of water, the programs are designed to consider most of the legitimate water uses. The models are capable of analyzing the quality-quantity interrelationships for municipal and industrial water supply, flood control, fish and aquatic life, irrigation, and recreation. These and other uses can be considered either by studying how to manage existing situations or by introducing various design alternatives concerning physical and structural components. As an analytical technique for planning and utilizing river basins, this 'River Basin Simulation Program' represents a major programming effort having as its base a sound analytical and engineering consideration of water quality.

San Francisco Bay-Delta Water Quality Control Program.

Abstract: develop a 50-yr comprehensive plan for waste disposal systems to serve the entire San Francisco Bay and Delta area of California, plan for collection, treatment (in cluding reclamation), and disposal of municipal and industrial wastewaters from a population of more than 15, 000,000, and for disposal of 800 cu ft/sec (22.4 eu m/sec) of agricultural drainage water, provide for maintenance and en hancement of water quality, yet still allow for continuation of California's

Public Water Supply Quality and AWWA Proposed Goals

Abstract: T us Public Health Service and AWW A have worked together for several decades to upgrade the quality of the nation's drinking water. AWW A has endorsed the USPHS Drinking Water Standards and its members have applied these standards to the operation of individual water treatment plants. The result has been the attainment of a level of safety in drinking water equaled in few countries. Since the establishment of these standards, however, economic and techFactors in Analysis nologic resources in the United States have increased significantly and so has For the most part, the figures are the public sensitivity to water quality. composites of the results of 2 weeks These factors have combined to create of sampling. In many instances, the a demand for water quality goals that same supply was sampled two or more surpass the USPHS minimum stantimes. This means that the number dards. of samples is usually greater than the USPHS has followed with interest number of supplies from which the the progress of AV\TWA in developing samples were taken. In this study, these new quality water goals and it has not been possible to relate the wishes to express its endorsement of number of samples for a constituent them. In this paper, data are preto the number of contributing supplies. sented on representative public water Therefore, the findings for the supplies supply systems in the United States, are approximate only. Also, the data for the purpose of comparing their may reflect the high proportion of samquality performance with the AWV.rA pIes in municipal supplies certified by

Water quality management and the time profile of benefits and costs

Abstract: Economists, in evaluating the long-term benefits in public works projects, have traditionally held that long-term benefits will contribute very little to the total present worth of the benefits accrued over the life of the project. It is shown, however, that the long-term social cost resulting from projects that cause water pollution cannot be neglected or assumed away in the host of practical cases where ‘amenity’ demands for good water quality in a project's area of influence are significant.

Analysis of water quality of the Mahoning River in Ohio

Abstract: The Mahoning River drains the densely populated and industrialized WarrenYoungstown area in northeastern Ohio. Significant chemical constituents and physical properties generally regarded as important in establishing waterquality standards for the Mahoning River are evaluated on the basis of hydrologic conditions and water use. Most of the interpretations and the appraisal of water-quality conditions are based on data collected from January 1963 to December 1965. Generally, streamflow during this period was lower than during a selected long-term reference period; however, extremely low flows that occurred in the reference period did not occur in the 3-year study period. Water temperatures of the Mahoning River at Pricetown and Leavittsburg were not affected by thermal loading. Water temperatures at those stations ranged from the freezing point to 78°F during the 1963-65 period. Downstream from Leavittsburg the use of large quantities of water for industrial cooling caused critical thermal loading during periods of low streamflow. Maximum water temperature were 108°F and 104°F at Struthers and Lowellville, respectively. Water temperatures of the Mahoning River were lower during high water discharges and increased with higher steel-production indices. Flow augmentation and modifications in industrial processes have improved the water-temperature conditions in recent years. A combination of oxygen-consuming materials and warmed water from industrial and municipal wastes discharged into the lower reaches of the Mahoning River frequently depleted the dissolved-oxygen content. At Lowellville, the river water had a dissolved-oxygen content of 5 ppm (parts per million) or less for 67 percent of the time and 3 ppm or less for 16 percent of the time during the study period. The percentage of saturation of dissolved oxygen followed a similar trend. Both the dissolved-oxygen concentration and the percentage of saturation were noticeably lower downstream from Leavittsburg during the warm months when water temperatures were high and streamflow was low. The dissolved-oxygen content in the Mahoning River at Leavittsburg and Pricetown was almost always at acceptable levels. The calculated dissolved-solids concentration of the Mahoning River ranged from 150 to 450 ppm at Leavittsburg and from 200 ppm to 650 ppm at Lowellville. Industrial use of the water caused an increase in the dissolved-solids* concentraCl C2 CONTRIBUTIONS TO THE HYDROLOGY OF THE UNITED STATES tion at Lowellville. During one steel-mill shutdown the average dissolved-solids concentration decreased from about 360 to about 280 ppm. Chloride concentrations in the Mahoning River ranged from 42 ppm at Pricetown to 108 ppm at Struthers. The chloride load at 50-percent flow duration was 9 and 69 tons per day at Pricetown and Lowellville, respectively. The chloride content of the Mahoning River was well within acceptable levels. Sulfate from wastes disposal and acid mine drainage made up the largest quantity of dissolved-solids load in the Mahoning River. The sulfate load at 50-percent flow duration increased from 38 tons per day at Pricetown to 300 tons per day at Lowellville. At Pricetown the sulfate load ranged from about 2 to 588 tons per day, while at Lowellville, downstream from the industrialized area, the range was from 106 to 2,420 tons per day. Comparison of sulfate loads during periods of steel production with periods of steel-mill shutdown indicated that during low flow about half the sulfate load at Lowellville was derived from steel-mill wastes when the production index was 100. The alkalinity load of the Mahoning River at 50-percent flow duration increased from Pricetown (23 tons per day) to Lowellville (41 tons per day). During steel production the alkalinity of the water showed a marked decrease from Leavittsburg downstream to Lowellville. However, during steel-mill shutdowns the chemical composition of the river at Youngstown and Lowellville was similar to that at Leavittsburg. Acid mine drainage and pickle-liquor wastes reduced the alkalinity and lowered the pH of the river downstream from Warren. Between Warren and Niles, the pH was less than 6.0 for some periods. The total iron concentration of the Mahoning River upstream from Leavittsburg was generally less than 2 ppm. From Leavittsburg downstream to Lowellville, total iron concentrations were frequently greater than 20 ppm.

Comprehensive River Basin Planning

Abstract: The National Water Resources Council established by the Water Resources Planning Act of 1965 is directing comprehensive investigations of water and related land resources. These investigations will eventually include the entire United States. These studies are at reconnaissance level of detail for the purpose of developing framework plans. The investigations, conducted by Federal-State groups, will provide for: (1) Economic analysis and projections; (2) translation of economic projections into demands for water and related land; (3) assessment of available water for quality and quantity; (4) assessment of available land resources; (5) identification of current and projected water and related land resource problems; (6) development of alternative plans for solution of problems; and (7) identification of critical water problems calling for prompt action. Parameters to be considered in the framework planning are national income, regional development, and quality of environment. Definitions are given and applications are described.

The use of saline water for irrigating rice in northern Australia

Abstract: A pot trial to assess the effect of salt water on growth and yield of rice in the Northern Territory of Australia was conducted in 1962-63. Two varieties were irrigated with three levels of salinity for varied durations in either the establishment or reproductive phases. Plant emergence was significantly depressed by soil conductivities in excess of 4 m-mhos/cm at 25¦C. The restricted use of up to 3000 p.p.m. total soluble salts from 10 days after emergence and of up to 6000 p.p.m. from 20 days after emergence, followed by fresh water, had no effect on flowering time, vegetative or grain yields. The application of 3000 and 6000 p.p.m. total soluble salts in the reproductive phase reduced mean panicle number and grain yield of both varieties and straw yield of one variety. Use of saline water in the establishment phase followed by fresh water and drainage, reduced soil conductivity. In the reproductive phase it nullified the effect of previous fresh water flushing and tended to increase soil conductivity above original levels.

Conceptual Problems in Water-Quality Economics

Abstract: A general analysis of the conceptual problems associated with economic analysis applied in water quality control planning is presented. Various specific applications of economics in the San Francisco Bay-Delta Water Quality Control Program are set forth. Needed advances in methodology are defined. A multidisciplinary approach to regional planning for water quality management, as in the Bay-Delta Program, requires definition of the role of economic analysis in relation to other functions such as the study of institutional control mechanisms. Complete economic analysis of alternative control schemes cannot procede unless relationships between water use and water quality are defined.