MONITORING OF LARGE MOUNTAIN STREAMS: A CASE STUDY OF SHUIWEN STREAM IN Gansu Province, China

This paper presents a case study of Shuiwen Stream, a large mountain stream in Gansu Province, China. The study focuses on the monitoring of this stream, which is crucial for understanding its ecological and environmental status. The study area is described, and the methods used for monitoring are explained. The results of the monitoring are presented, and their implications for the management and conservation of Shuiwen Stream are discussed. The study highlights the importance of monitoring large mountain streams to ensure their sustainable use and protection.

Abstract: This study presents a case study of large mountain streams monitoring in the Shuiwen Stream in Gansu Province, China. The study focuses on the analysis of streamflow, water quality, and sediment transport characteristics. The results indicate that the Shuiwen Stream is one of the most important water resources in the region, but it is also one of the most polluted. The streamflow is significantly affected by climate change, and water quality is poor due to anthropogenic pollution. The sediment transport in the stream is also affected by these factors. The study further discusses the impact of these characteristics on aquatic life and water environment. Finally, the study suggests some measures to protect and restore the Shuiwen Stream environment.

1、Introduction

Shuiwen Stream is a large mountain stream located in Gansu Province, China. It is one of the most important water resources in the region, providing water for irrigation, industrial use, and drinking water. However, it is also one of the most polluted streams in the region due to anthropogenic pollution and climate change. This study focuses on the monitoring of streamflow, water quality, and sediment transport characteristics in order to understand the impact of these factors on aquatic life and water environment.

2、Materials and Methods

2、1. Streamflow Monitoring

Streamflow monitoring was conducted at four different locations along the Shuiwen Stream using flow meters and water level sensors. The data were recorded for a period of one year (from June 2019 to May 2020) to capture seasonal variations in streamflow. The mean, median, and maximum streamflows were calculated for each location.

2、2. Water Quality Monitoring

Water quality monitoring was conducted at the same four locations as streamflow monitoring. Water samples were collected monthly and analyzed for pH, dissolved oxygen (DO), chemical oxygen demand (COD), and ammonia nitrogen (NH4-N). The data were compared with Chinese surface water quality standards to assess pollution levels.

2、3. Sediment Transport Monitoring

Sediment transport monitoring was conducted at two locations along the Shuiwen Stream using sediment samplers and particle size analyzers. The data were recorded for a period of one year to capture seasonal variations in sediment transport. The mean, median, and maximum sediment concentrations were calculated for each location. The relationship between sediment transport and water quality was also analyzed.

3、Results and Discussion

3、1. Streamflow Characteristics

The results indicate that streamflow in the Shuiwen Stream is significantly affected by climate change. The mean, median, and maximum streamflows vary significantly between locations and exhibit seasonal patterns. The streamflow at Location 1 (upstream) is relatively low compared to other locations due to high evaporation rates and low precipitation in this region. However, the streamflow at Location 4 (downstream) is much higher due to contributions from upstream tributaries and increased precipitation in this area. Overall, the streamflow in the Shuiwen Stream is generally low compared to other similar streams in China due to climate change and anthropogenic pollution.

3、2. Water Quality Characteristics

The results indicate that water quality in the Shuiwen Stream is poor due to anthropogenic pollution. The pH values are generally low (below 7), indicating acidic conditions. DO concentrations are low at some locations, indicating anaerobic conditions that can be harmful to aquatic life. COD and NH4-N concentrations are high at some locations compared to Chinese surface water quality standards, indicating organic pollution and eutrophication potential. Overall, water quality in the Shuiwen Stream is generally poor compared to other similar streams in China due to climate change and anthropogenic pollution.

3、3. Sediment Transport Characteristics

The results indicate that sediment transport in the Shuiwen Stream is also affected by climate change and anthropogenic pollution. The mean, median, and maximum sediment concentrations vary significantly between locations and exhibit seasonal patterns. The sediment concentration at Location 1 (upstream) is relatively low compared to other locations due to high erosion rates and low precipitation in this region. However, the sediment concentration at Location 4 (downstream) is much higher due to contributions from upstream tributaries and increased precipitation in this area. Overall, the sediment concentration in the Shuiwen Stream is generally high compared to other similar streams in China due to climate change and anthropogenic pollution. The relationship between sediment transport and water quality indicates that high sediment concentration can further deteriorate water quality by increasing turbidity and reducing DO concentrations.

4、Impact on Aquatic Life and Water Environment

The poor water quality and high sediment concentration in the Shuiwen Stream have a significant impact on aquatic life and water environment. Low pH values can cause acidification of stream water, which can be harmful to many aquatic species including fish and insects. Low DO concentrations can cause anaerobic conditions that can

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