Book Description

Describes and presents simulation results from numerical models of the transport and fate of environmental chemicals in northern Alberta rivers. The models were developed using the USEPA WASP modelling system and were structured as one-dimensional (longitudinal) models with separate, interacting water column and bed sediment compartments. Seven selected organic chemicals were simulated over 1992-93 for the Athabasca River and over 1990-91 for the Wapiti/Smoky River system. Chemicals simulated included 2,3,7,8-tetrachloro dibenzofuran, dehydroabietic acid, and phenanthrene. The models were first calibrated for sodium and total suspended solids. Organic chemicals were simulated using a set of environmental fate constants developed from a literature search, numerical estimation software, and estimation from field data. Results of initial simulations were compared to observed data and adjustments made to selected constants to improve the calibration.