Characteristics and origin of suspended matter in a small reservoir in Poland

Abstract

The study involved qualitative and quantitative analysis of suspended sediment and its origin in a small reservoir located in Blizne, Podkarpackie Region (SE Poland), and was conducted during summer 2017. Results showed a linear negative correlation between the suspended sediment in a water column and its organic matter content. There was also a clear relationship between the suspended sediment content and the rate of sedimentation of solid particles suspended in the water column. The research showed that the TOC-to-OM conversion factor commonly applied to bottom sediments does not apply to sediments suspended in the water column. It was also observed that the organic matter prevailing in entrapped sediment was of autochthonous origin. Its share was greatest and the content of total phosphorus highest when retention period increased. The increase in phosphorus content co-occurred with the decreasing TOC:TN ratio, and with a decrease in the sedimentation rate. Analysis has thus shown that the composition and specific nature of suspended sediment in this reservoir affects the rate of deposition of matter and can determine the siltation processes.