Fluctuations and Relationships of Selected Physiochemical Parameters in Dardanelle Reservoir, Arkansas, 1975-1982

Annual and seasonal fluctuations and relationships are described for discharge, turbidity, chloride, total hardness, conductivity and suspended solids over an eight-year period in Dardanelle Reservoir. The parameters fluctuated rather widely primarily in response to seasonal patterns of rainfall. Chloride and conductivity were related and generally fluctuated together as did turbidity and suspended solids. Hardness appeared to vary independently of the others prior to 1979 then varied more closely with chloride after March 1979. Inherent differences between the Illinois Bayou arm and the main Arkansas River sections complicated the precise identification of any overall impact of power plant operation. No significant long term changes were seen, but chloride declined gradually whereas hardness and conductivity increased slightly. Suspended solids exhibited a significant rise in 1982