Spatial and temporal variation in pH, alkalinity and conductivity in surface runoff and groundwater for the Upper River Severn catchment

Abstract. Measurements of pH, alkalinity and electrical conductivity are used to examine the extent of the spatial and temporal variation in stream and ground water chemistry for the Upper Severn catchment, Plynlimon. Wide temporal variations in stream waters broadly reflect flow conditions and complex soil and ground water interactions but not soil type, land usage or geology. The results have major implications for the use of critical load analysis and the development and application of models in upland catchments. They point to the value of field measurements for assessing the environmental management of upland catchments, rather than the present use of over simplistic or inappropriate models.