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Friday, March 6, 2015

Amanda, UR, Is there any copper out there?

I was asked if I think copper could be in the waters of our precious Central Parks. I have to honestly say I'm not sure but it wouldn't surprise me since copper can infiltrate waterways like other pollutants or nutrients in excess. Even though copper occurs naturally in elements and ores and is also used in household plumbing...ah! Household plumbing! If there is old plumbing, is it plausible that some of this old stuff could leach copper out and into our waters? Yes!
The link I've attached was quite interesting on origins and processes of copper per the EPA.



Illustration showing 55% runoff rate where ground cover is 75-100% impervious
These two images came from the website, I added these to show how man made vs nature impact our precious water ways. The website was also informative on ways we can help deter the problems of runoff.

2 comments:

  1. Amanda--I may have asked these questions before but...what might be sources of copper in your area other than household pipes? What are the acceptable levels of copper in Florida's natural waters? and--what method will you be using to sample/analyze you copper?

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  2. Amanda, according to your chart there is excessive runoff in paved, highly populated areas. Have you considered emission control systems?

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