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Tracer Test

An extensive 4-km tracer test was designed, coordinated, and carried out by Rob Ryan. Reconnaissance field work was carried out in March 2007; dye tests to approximate travel times were carried out in May, 2007; the actual field test was carried out from August 1 - 9, 2007 under low flow conditions. The test was repeated May 22 - 31, 2008 under higher base flow conditions.


Location map for tracer test.

Tracer Test Summary

• Preliminary colorimetric tests carried out in May 2007 to approximate total travel time and to design test
• Tracer test conducted over approximately 4 km reach from Aug 1-9, 2007
• Test broken up into two parts, one downstream, then one upstream
• Bromide injection used; rhodamine dye used simultaneously to colorimetrically check for first arrival to set ISCOs
• Field deployment was 24/7 for 9 days; 43 person-slots of help (paid+ volunteer)
• No rain; flows very low
• Test conducted over a pattern of four different land uses/land cover types
- Park/forest, older residential, heavy commercial, mixed light commercial/residential
•  Hypothesis is that hyporheic exchange will vary as a function of stream conditionrelated to land use
• 1200 samples collected
• IC analysis of all samples
• OTIS model being calibrated to data
• Results will be used as one input to groundwater model
• Test repeated May 22-31 2008 under higher base flow conditions; 1400 samples  analyzed on the IC.
• Results presented at Fall 2008 AGU.
• One  manuscript submitted; two in preparation.

Tracy Kerchkof and Phil Larson preparing bromide injection solution.
Rob Ryan carrying out dye test check.
Sarah Poole taking flow measurements with Chrissy Runyan.
Peter Lapa-Lilly assisting Rob Ryan with mixing up the bromide solution.