31-9 Analysis of Trace Metal Pollution and Associated Health Risk in the South Fork Shenandoah River, Virginia, USA

Session: Environmental Geochemistry and Health (Posters)

Poster Booth No.: 35

Presenting Author:

Abigail Baldwin

Authors:

Baldwin, Abigail¹, Burbridge, Katie², Giancarlo, Leanna ³, Odhiambo, Ben Kisila⁴

(1) Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Mary Washington, Fredericksburg, Virginia, USA, (2) Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Mary Washington, Fredericksburg, Virginia, USA, (3) Department of Chemistry and Physics, University of Mary Washington, Fredericksburg, Virginia, USA, (4) Department of Earth and Environmental Sciences, University of Mary Washington, Fredericksburg, Virginia, USA,

Abstract:

Trace metal contamination threatens both aquatic ecosystems and human health, as elevated concentrations of even biologically essential elements can become toxic and bioaccumulate through food webs. This study investigates the distribution and concentration of Hg, Pb, As, Cu, Zn, Cd, Cr, Ca, Mn, and Fe using sediment grab samples and water samples collected from 22 sites along the South Fork Shenandoah River and its tributaries. Pollution indices including enrichment factor (EF), contamination factor (CF), and pollution load index (PLI) combined with GIS‑based hot spot analysis will be used to evaluate spatial patterns and pollution severity. Biodiversity will be assessed through environmental DNA (eDNA) analysis.

The South Fork Shenandoah River, flowing along Virginia’s Blue Ridge Mountains, supports diverse wildlife, agriculture, and recreational use, yet has a long history of both point and non‑point trace metal inputs. The most notable source is the former DuPont textile facility in Waynesboro, which discharged mercury into a tributary from 1929 to 1950. Preliminary results show mercury concentrations ranging from <0.05 ppm upstream of the plant to 14.7 ppm in sediments immediately downstream, underscoring the persistence of legacy contamination. This study provides an updated assessment of mercury levels and expands understanding of additional trace metals not previously examined in the watershed.

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