Distribution of contaminated soils along transversal and longitudinal gradients in dynamic fluvial environment (Southern Québec, Canada)

Abstract

This research combines a hydrological and pedological approach to better understand the spatial distribution of contaminated soils along the Massawippi River (southern Québec, Canada). This river crosses through former mines, which were some of the largest copper mining areas in North America from 1865 to 1939. To determine the spatial distribution and concentration of the metal elements, soil samples were taken in each flood recurrence zone appearing on official flood zone maps. The maximum values obtained for Cu and Pb are 380 and 200 mg kg −1, respectively, for the soils in the frequent flood zones (FFzs), while the values for soils in the moderate flood zones (MFzs) range from 700 to 540 (Cu) and 580 to 460 mg kg −1 (Pb). Contamination extends through several kilometers of the former mining sites (Eustis and Capleton), and concentration of metals in alluvial soils is slightly higher near the mine sites.