| Anion, cation, and total dissolved solids (ACTs) flux from non-point source runoff was analyzed from eight storm events occurring between May and December 2009 in a stormwater pond complex at Corning Community College, Corning, NY. Results focused on sodium, calcium, and total dissolved solids (TDS) concentrations in influent and effluent, because calcium and sodium ions were found to be primary indicators of groundwater and deicing sources, with TDS being a good indicator of cumulative source impacts. This best management practice (BMP) is not functioning as anticipated because the pond system did not store sufficient runoff following rainfall events. The probable cause of this BMP inefficiency was construction of ponds that intersected the groundwater table at shallower depths than anticipated. Discharges of TDS from the stormwater pond complex often exceed NYS regulations of 500 mg/L. Enlargement and redesign of the pond complex will be needed to improve BMP efficiency. |
