Bottom Sediment Analysis of the Recreational Waters of Upper Sabino Creek

Abstract

Bottom sediment quality of the upper four miles of Sabino Creek in the Santa Catalina mountains near Tucson, Arizona was examined from September, 1975 through August, 1976. Two primary bottom sediment parameters were examined: 1) sediment fecal bacterial concentrations, and 2) sediment particle size distribution. Analyses of bottom sediment parameters and selected surface water parameters were conducted to ascertain interrelationships between bottom sediment quality and surface water quality. Results indicate the importance of bottom sediments in the overall quality of the Creek. Bottom sediment fecal bacterial concentrations have a significant influence on surface water fecal bacterial concentrations through suspension of sediment stored bacteria into the overlying water. Significantly higher bacterial concentrations were observed during highest recreational use periods.