Influence of basin characteristics on baseflow and stormflow chemistry in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, USA

Streams in higher-elevation basins (>975 m) within the Great Smoky Mountains National Park exhibit significantly lower pH, acid neutralizing capacity (ANC), sodium, and silicon concentrations, alongside elevated nitrate levels, compared to those in smaller or lower-altitude basins. The study reveals that basin characteristics—such as elevation, area, geology, soil properties, and vegetation—interactively influence stream chemistry during both baseflow and stormflow conditions. Notably, streams draining basins with Anakeesta geology (>10%) show reduced pH and sodium but higher aluminum concentrations during storm events. Soil hydraulic conductivity emerges as a critical factor, with higher conductivities correlating to lower ANC, base cations, and increased nitrate/sulfate in stormflow. These findings underscore the dominant role of soil and geological properties over topographical factors in shaping aquatic chemistry, guiding prioritization for conservation strategies.

Neff, K. J., Schwartz, J. S., Moore, S. E., & Kulp, M. A. (2012). Influence of basin characteristics on baseflow and stormflow chemistry in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park, USA. Hydrological Processes, 27(14), 2061–2074. Portico. https://doi.org/10.1002/hyp.9366