Water Resources Research Act Program

Details for Project ID PA_2024_McGuire

Trace metal transport by colloids in the Shamokin Creek watershed

Institute: Pennsylvania
Year Established: 2024 Start Date: 2024-09-01 End Date: 2025-08-31
Total Federal Funds: $25,000 Total Non-Federal Funds: $25,000

Principal Investigators: Molly McGuire

Project Summary: As in any natural water sample, the colloids in abandoned mine drainage (AMD) waters play a major role in the fate and transport of trace metals. While Fe-bearing colloids that form in oxic waters have been well studied, much less is known about the colloids that form in anoxic AMD waters. This study focuses on two anoxic environments within the Shamokin Creek watershed of the western middle anthracite field: a passive treatment system consisting of a series of vertical flow wetlands, and a large flooded strip mine pit. Our investigations will identify the composition of these colloids, quantify the associated trace metals, and track the fate of the colloids as the anoxic waters mix with oxic waters. Results of these studies will fill a critical knowledge gap in our understanding of trace metal transport in AMD waters and will be broadly applicable to watersheds across the entire Appalachian coal region.