Abstract |
Results are presented of a four year investigation of the dynamics of biochemical oxygen demand in polluted streams, and of unrecorded origins of such pollution. Data were obtained from watersheds of differing characteristics, including undeveloped woodlands, row crops, single family suburban housing and urban areas. Samples were taken over about a 2 1/2 year period, and analyzed for both five day and longer period BOD. It was found that single family suburban housing and row crops in flat land provide only a moderate increase of organic pollution over the undeveloped areas; but that urban watersheds tested are major pollution sources. A special study of Morristown, N.J. provided a provisional measure of per capita organic pollution to be expected in a clean urban area without major industrial activities. |