Quantifying Metal Contributions from Multiple Sources to the Clark Fork River, Montana, U.S.A.

Abstract

Identifying and quantifying the contributions of multiple sources of trace elements to stream sediments in a basin containing several possible inputs presents a unique problem related to the investigation of rivers impacted by industrial activity. A multi-source dilution–mixing model was developed and applied to determine the relative contributions to As, Cu and Pb burdens in the Clark Fork River, Montana, a recipient of historical mine wastes as a result of over a century of mining and milling operations. The results identified the Flint Creek drainage as a major source of anthropogenic As (47%) and Pb (35%) to sediments of the Clark Fork River and the Milltown Reservoir, in addition to the major sources associated with mining operations in Butte, MT. The Little Blackfoot River also contributes anthropogenic As (3%) and Pb (4%) to the Clark Fork River, while minor inputs of Cu (1%) and Pb (2%) emanate from the Blackfoot River. The model allows source quantification, and an understanding of the fate and transport of mine wastes in a basin, allowing identification and eventual prioritization of sites destined for remediation.