Geography ETDs

Publication Date

Spring 5-16-2026

Abstract

This study evaluates the persistence and bioavailability of heavy metals and metalloids in the Gallinas River three years after the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Wildfire of 2022 using a multicompartment sampling framework that includes water, sediment, and benthic macroinvertebrate tissue analysis via inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry (ICP-OES) and inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Results indicate that the Hermit’s Peak/Calf Canyon Fire continues to influence the hydrogeochemical condition of the Gallinas River. Sediments contain elevated concentrations of several metals and metalloids, and these same elements are detectable in macroinvertebrate tissues, linking sediment contamination to biological uptake. Zinc (Zn), silicon (Si), copper (Cu), and lead (Pb) show the most significant increases, with tissue concentrations reaching up to six to ten times those observed in sediments. Arsenic (As) and uranium (U) are also present in both sediment and macroinvertebrate tissue and remain of concern for their toxicity and persistence. Although most measured elements are below acute toxicity thresholds, their continued presence highlights the risk of prolonged exposure and the potential for trophic transfer up the food chain. These findings underscore the importance of long-term watershed monitoring and multi-compartmental analyses to ensure water quality and availability as well as ecosystem resilience in fire-prone watersheds.

Degree Name

Geography

Department Name

Geography

Level of Degree

Masters

First Committee Member (Chair)

Dr. Maria Lane

Second Committee Member

Dr. Chris Duvall

Third Committee Member

Dr. Rebecca Bixby

Fourth Committee Member

Dr. Johanna Blake

Document Type

Thesis

Language

English

Keywords

Wildfire, hydrogeochemistry, macroinvertebrates, water quality, heavy metals, uranium

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