Spatial variability in characteristics and trace metal levels in sediments from watercourses

Assessing sediment quality requires sampling designs which address variability. Often however, only one sample or composited sample is collected at a sample site. Existing studies on sediment variability or sampling strategies primarily concern lake or marine sediments. Two rivers and one canal were sampled to assess sediment variability. Further, it was determined if sediment contamination in running water could be predicted by using visual criteria and/or knowledge of the presence of depositional and erosion areas. Metal concentrations and sediment characteristics were measured in different visually distinct areas of the river. At all sample sites the coefficient of variance was relatively high for most sediment characteristics (1.4‐ > 100%) and metal levels (15.3–63.6%). In one river the majority of sediment characteristics variation was between two sediment types and detected by visually distinct differences. Significant differences in cadmium and zinc concentrations were also detected. Contrary to what was expected, cadmium, and zinc levels were highest in the coarse fraction. No differences were found in the second river. In the canal a greater concentration of fine grained sediments and metals were found in the deep areas. It was not possible to predict sediment areas with the highest levels of metal contamination using visual criteria or knowledge of the erosion and sedimentation pattern of the river.