CATCHMENT CHARACTERIZATION AS A TOOL FOR UPLAND WATER-QUALITY MANAGEMENT

The relationship between the distribution of naturally occurring discoloured water and catchment characteristics is determined for an upland catchwater system in North Yorkshire, U.K. Primary non-point sources of colour are identified as areas of Winter Hill peat with slopes <5 degrees and high drainage densities. Heather burning and moorland gripping are identified as land management practices likely to increase water discolouration. A statistical model to predict the spatial distribution of water discoloration is developed. The model has utility as a catchment management tool for water quality hazard mapping and catchwater management. The implications for predicting and controlling levels of other variables associated with non-compliance to water quality standards is considered.