ASSESSMENT OF TRACE ELEMENT CONCENTRATIONS IN THE FARMINGTON RIVER, HARTFORD COUNTY, CT

The Farmington River located within Hartford County is the main tributary of the Connecticut River. The Farmington River watershed covers 1,580 km² and extends throughout the towns of Canton, Burlington, Farmington, Avon, Simsbury, East Granby, and Windsor, CT. Trace element concentration within the drainage systems is a growing concern across many parts of the United States, largely due to the presence of many chemical elements, nutrients, and pathogens that can impact both human health and the ecosystem. Significant sources of trace elements along Farmington River include both natural sources through rock weathering, and anthropogenic sources that include agricultural and industrial activities. This study examined sources and spatial distribution of major and trace elements within Farmington River, Hartford County, CT. A total of seventy-eight (78) stream sediment samples, and twenty-five (25) water samples were collected throughout the entire length of Farmington River. During sampling, basic physicochemical parameters of the water column that include pH, temperature, total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity (EC), and dissolved oxygen (DO) were determined. In the laboratory, sediment samples were analyzed for acid and soluble extractable elements, and basic soil parameters such as particle size, organic matter and soluble salts. In addition, water samples were analyzed for anions (F, Cl, Br, NO₃, SO₄, and PO₄) using an IC-HPLC and cations using ICP-OES. The water quality characteristics were mostly below the EPA limits with chloride showing significant concentrations in most of our sampling locations. Results of stream sediment demonstrated spatial variability with increased concentrations downstream. Multivariate statistical analysis, principal component, cluster analysis, as well as calculation of sediments enrichment factors, and geoaccumulation index showed degree of enrichment, geogenic and anthropogenic contribution to these trace element concentrations within Farmington River.