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Development of a benthic-flux chamber for measurement of ground-water seepage and water sampling for mercury analysis at the sediment-water interface

January 1, 2004

A benthic-flux chamber was constructed to collect data to determine the relation between ground- and surface-water interaction and mercury concentrations in water at the sediment- water interface. The benthic-flux chamber was successfully used to measure the rate of ground water seeping to surface water or surface water seeping to ground water, and to collect water samples for mercury analysis from the sedimentwater interface in a lake setting. The benthic-flux chamber was designed to be deployed in relatively calm fresh water lakes, in areas of water less than 2 meters deep. The groundwater seepage rate data were comparable to data from an in-line flow meter in a calibration tank and with data from two 55-gallon drum seepage meters concurrently deployed in two different lakes. The benthic-flux chamber was used to collect possible water samples for analysis of total mercury and methylmercury concentrations.

Publication Year 2004
Title Development of a benthic-flux chamber for measurement of ground-water seepage and water sampling for mercury analysis at the sediment-water interface
DOI 10.3133/sir20045298
Authors M.A. Menheer
Publication Type Report
Publication Subtype USGS Numbered Series
Series Title Scientific Investigations Report
Series Number 2004-5298
Index ID sir20045298
Record Source USGS Publications Warehouse
USGS Organization Minnesota Water Science Center