Driscoll, C. T., Syracuse University, Syracuse, USA, ctdrisco@syr.edu
Dittman, J. ., Syracuse University, Syracuse, USA, jadittma@syr.edu
Selvendiran, P. ., Syracuse University, Syracuse, USA, pselvend@syr.edu
Demers, J. ., Cornell University, Ithaca, USA, jdd24@cornell.edu
Choi, H. D., Clarkson University, Potsdam, USA, choihd@clarkson.edu
Holsen, T. M., Clarkson University, Potsdam, USA, holsen@clarkson.edu

ECOLOGICAL EFFECTS OF MERCURY DEPOSITION IN THE ADIRONDACK REGION OF NEW YORK: CRITICAL ISSUES FOR RECOVERY

We synthesize multi-disciplinary research on atmosphere-forest Hg dynamics and effects on ecosystems in the Adirondack region of New York, including issues regulating recovery following emission controls. The Adirondacks have exhibited marked changes in net atmospheric deposition since about 1900 including decreases since the 1970s. Litterfall is the dominant influx pathway of Hg (~17 µg/m2-yr) to the Adirondacks, throughfall is nearly balanced by soil evasion losses, and the major loss is soil accumulation (~15 µg/m2-yr). Limited drainage losses of ionic Hg are converted to methyl Hg largely in wetlands, particularly during the summer growing season, supplying downstream surface waters. A recent resurvey of 25 Adirondack lakes shows the water columns have largely exhibited decreases in total and methyl Hg concentrations changes while the Hg content of yellow perch have been mixed. These changes appear linked to changes in the DOC concentrations. Critical issues for the recovery of Adirondack ecosystems are the effects of changes in atmospheric Hg, SO42- and NO3- deposition, changes in DOC and its influence of Hg bioavailability, and the legacy of Hg accumulated in soils.

Oral presentation

Presentation is given by student: No
Session #:187
Date: 03-07-2008
Time: 08:30