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Document Title:
An investigation of irrigation-related contaminants in water, bottom sediment, and biota from Goshen County, Wyoming
AUTHOR(S):
Kim Dickerson Pedro Ramirez Jr
REPORT NUMBER:
R6/711C/97
PAGES:
1 - 44
PUBLICATION DATE:
1997
ABSTRACT:
We conducted a comprehensive evaluation of trace element concentrations in water,
sediment, aquatic vegetation, aquatic invertebrates, waterbird eggs, and fish resulting from irrigation
drainwater during 1995 in Goshen County, Wyoming. We also analyzed waterbird eggs and fish
from this area for organochlorine residues and attempted to determine the nesting success of various
waterbirds.
Boron concentrations were elevated (>300 ug/g dry weight) in aquatic vegetation above
concentrations shown to adversely affect sensitive waterfowl; however, these concentrations are
similar to those found in aquatic vegetation sampled in other areas throughout Wyoming. Mercury
concentrations in aquatic vegetation, aquatic invertebrates, and fish were slightly elevated above the
recommended concentration of mercury (>0.1 ug/g wet weight) in food items for the protection of
sensitive avian species. However, mercury presently does not appear to be bioaccumulating in birds
to concentrations expected to cause adverse affects.
Cadmium was slightly elevated in aquatic invertebrates (>1.2 ug/g dw) from two sites but
neither fish or bird tissue had elevated cadmium concentrations. Chromium was slightly elevated in
aquatic vegetation from two sites; but, the significance of these residues is unclear. Chromium was
not found in waterbird eggs or fish in concentrations (>4.4 ug/g dry weight) that suggest chromium
contamination is present. Dieldrin was detectable in one avocet egg and DDE was detected in all
avian eggs and fish. However, the concentrations of cadmium, chromium, and organochlorine
pesticides were not at concentrations that cause adverse effects to fish and wildlife resources.
PUBLISHED BY:
U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service
DOCUMENT LINK:
http://www.fws.gov/mountain-prairie/contaminants/papers/r6711c97.pdf, 421 KB
ADDITIONAL LINKS:
Mountain-Prairie Region Environmental Contaminants site
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