GROUND PENETRATING RADAR STUDY OF SILTATION IN A RESIDENTIAL POND, DESOTO COUNTY, MISSISSIPPI

Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR) data collected on small ponds have been shown to be efficient and economical in mapping pond bathymetry and investigating sub-bottom stratigraphy. The method produces continuous reflection profiles that are relatively uncomplicated to interpret and are useful in a variety of engineering and environmental applications. The goal of this project was to collect GPR profiles over a small (one acre) residential pond in north Mississippi (DeSoto County). Previous investigation of the pond suggests high sedimentation rates due to siltation associated with unmitigated runoff from nearby construction. The GPR data (five profiles) were collected across the pond (perpendicular to the long axis) using a PulseEKKO Pro (with 100 MHz antennas) and an automated acquisition system composed of Styrofoam pontoons, a drive wheel, and a cabling system. The profiles ranged from 11 to 25 m in length and data were collected at 0.25 m intervals. Preliminary interpretation of the profiles shows a strong reflection from the water bottom. Sub-bottom reflections (pond-fill sediments) and point-source reflections from within the water column (tree trunks/limbs?) have also been identified. Correlation of the GPR profiles with coring transects is underway in order to calculate sediment thickness.