Watershed Monitoring chapter of LANL report co-authored by Paul Drakos

Watershed Monitoring chapter (chapter 6) of the “Environmental Surveillance at Los Alamos during 2009” LANL report was co-authored by Paul Drakos, Senior Geologist, Glorieta Geoscience, Inc.

Los Alamos National Laboratory (LANL or the Laboratory) monitors the quality of surface water, including storm water, and stream sediment in northern New Mexico to evaluate the potential environmental effects of Laboratory operations on affected watersheds. Annual sediment monitoring occurred since 1969.

In the Watershed Monitoring chapter, (chapter 6) the effects of Laboratory operations on surface water and stream sediment are evaluated geographically and over time. Additionally, the sampling results are compared with screening criteria established to protect human health and the aquatic environment.  GGI collaborated with LANL during field operations including sample collection, description of sediment deposits, evaluation of different geomorphic settings, and data analysis.

Photograph of sample location along Rio Grande below the White Rock Overlook with the highest concentration of uranium-238 and other analytes (Location ID WR-609869); November 11, 2009.

Photograph of Close-up of sampled layer at Location ID WR-609869, 0–8 cm deep, showing fine-grained sediment with mud cracks.

For more information, please contact me at drakos@glorietageo.com or at 505 983 5446 Ext 108.

About GGI:

Founded in 1979 in Santa Fe, NM, GGI has been providing quality professional consulting services in groundwater development, water rights, geomorphology, dairy regulatory compliance and environmental sciences. GGI serves federal, state, and municipal entities, tribal governments, private corporations, and individuals. We pride ourselves in our ability to listen to our clients’ goals and help turn these goals into successes.

For more information please visit our website at www.glorietageo.com