Sampling riverine sediments impacted by acid mine drainage: problems and solutions

Abstract

 Sampling acid mine drainage (AMD) or natural acid rock drainage (ARD)-impacted sediments is complex, requiring appropriate field sampling techniques to ensure representative samples that are both repeatable and reproducible. The important factors affecting sampling of riverine sediments are examined. These include sample site location, field observations, representative sampling, sample collection techniques, and sample preservation. A recommended sampling and processing protocol is presented for AMD- and ARD-impacted riverine sediments, which includes sediment sampling, Fe hydroxide floc sampling, chemical analysis, interstitial (pore) water collection, sediment elutriates, sediment fractionation, and physical analysis. The importance of bioassay testing is discussed, as is quality assurance and assessment approaches to define sediment quality criteria.