Some Contaminants Found in Selected Streams in the Yellowstone River Basin

U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) scientists studying streams in the Yellowstone River Basin during a 3-year period have found fecal-coliform bacteria, dissolved minerals, phosphorus, trace metals, and pesticides in some streams where samples were collected. Streams sampled included Soda Butte Creek, Clarks Fork Yellowstone River, Bighorn River, Tongue River, Little Powder River, Powder River, and the Yellowstone River.

“The Yellowstone River Basin’s water quality is affected by natural and human sources,” stated USGS project hydrologist Kirk Miller. The study used land-use data to help decipher the water-quality results.

“In our study, Yellowstone River samples that exceeded arsenic guidelines for protection of human health were affected by natural geothermal features in Yellowstone National Park. Erodible soils contributed phosphorus to the streams,” Miller said.

The study also frequently found pesticides and their break-down products in the Clark’s Fork Yellowstone River, Bighorn River, and Yellowstone River. Although concentrations generally were low and less than water-quality criteria, many samples contained mixtures of two or more pesticides.

Copies of the USGS report “Water-Quality Assessment of the Yellowstone River Basin, Montana and Wyoming—Water Quality of Fixed Sites, 1999-2001” published as Scientific Investigations Report 2004-5113 are available free of charge by writing the USGS Branch of Information Services, Box 25286, Denver Federal Center, Denver, CO 80225, or by calling 1–888–ASK–USGS (1–888–275–8747). The report also may be viewed online at: http://water.usgs.gov/pubs/sir/2004/5113/

The USGS assessment is part of a national program currently releasing results on streams and ground water in 14 additional major river basins and aquifer systems. Findings of regional and national interest are highlighted in a separate report "Water Quality in the Nation's Streams and Aquifers—Overview of Selected Findings, 1991–2001." Check the status and availability of these reports on the NAWQA Web site (http://water.usgs.gov/nawqa/nawqasum/), as well as accessibility to other publications and national data sets and maps.

The USGS serves the nation by providing reliable scientific information to describe and understand the Earth; minimize loss of life and property from natural disasters; manage water, biological, energy, and mineral resources; and enhance and protect our quality of life.

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