AWWA WQTC71451

When a small patch of Hydrilla (approximately 30 square feet) was discovered inthe Mulberry Fork in April 2008, the Birmingham Water Works Board (BWWB) took the opportunity to thoroughly study and document the progression andcharacteristics of the Mulberry Hydrilla infestation. The Mulberry provides asource of raw water for the Birmingham Water Works Board (BWWB). This discoveryseemed inevitable since Hydrilla had invaded the Tennessee River Basin directly north ofthe Mulberry Fork as well as other tributaries of the Black Warrior River. This study is unique because the initial data collection begins with a Hydrilla patch that isrelatively limited and posing no immediate threat to intakes or source water quality. Thisproject details the spread and character of Hydrilla, providing utilities and otherentities with monitoring and control strategies from the perspective of an active programdeveloped from the beginning of an infestation. Of particular interest to the BWWB is the potential generation of total organic carbon(TOC) by Hydrilla and other invaders, which create large masses of organic matter andis a precursor of disinfection byproducts, a potential carcinogen. Water samples were collected from five areas of reduced flow in the Mulberry Fork and analyzed for water quality parameters such astemperature, pH, dissolved oxygen (DO),total organic carbon (TOC),ammonia,alkalinity,turbidity, and oxidation reduction potential (ORP). All sampling methods andequipment complied with U.S. Environmental Protection Agency approved methods. Includes 4 references, extended abstract only.

Product Details

Edition:

Vol. - No.

Published:

11/01/2009

Number of Pages:

4

File Size:

1 file , 830 KB