Author(s): Harrington Joe; Motherway Kevin; Clancy John
Linked Author(s):
Keywords: Cork Harbour; River Lee; Suspended Sediment; Sediment Load; Sediment Yield
Abstract: The determination of suspended sediment loadings from rivers to estuary systems forms an integral part of understanding sediment dynamics within river/estuary systems. This paper presents the results of an extensive sampling, testing and analysis programme to determine riverine suspended sediment loadings to Cork Harbour, Ireland. Suspended sediment samples were taken over a three year period on the rivers discharging to Cork Harbour. Sampling stations were located adjacent to existing hydrometric stations. Relationships were developed, based on the results of the sampling and testing programme, between the river flow rate and the suspended sediment concentration and also between the river flow rate and the suspended sediment discharge. The flow duration curve – sediment rating curve method was used to predict suspended sediment loadings. The total suspended sediment load to Cork Harbour is estimated at approximately 19, 000 tonnes per year, primarily from the River Lee. The sediment yield of the uncontrolled river catchments has been estimated varying from approximately 7 tonnes/km2/year to over 30 tonnes/km2/year providing the first estimates of sediment yield from river catchments in Ireland. A comparison is also made between suspended sediment concentration results for surface grab and depth integrated samples.
Year: 2007