Increased water sediment load
Impact
Water sediment load refers to the quantity of soil particular material (usually fine clay or silt particles) suspended within the water. Suspended fine sediment contributes to water turbidity. The higher the turbidity (and suspended fine sediment) of the water the lower its clarity. Turbidity is influenced by a range of factors including but not limited to: catchment soil erosion, streambank and bed erosion, wastewater release, stormwater drainage, algal growth, flow rate and salinity. Turbidity determines the degree of scattering or absorption of light in the water and thus influences water temperature and the growth of aquatic plants and algae.
Suggested indicators: Fine sediment in water*
Increased water sediment load may be associated with:
| Potential associated impacts | Suggested indicators |
| Reduced light penetration limiting the photosynthesis and growth of aquatic plants and algae |
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| Reduced food sources for some species including reduced ability of visual predators to hunt food leading to fauna deaths |
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Suspended particles can clog fish gills, resulting in disease, slower growth and sometimes death |
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Suspended particles absorb heat, thus increased turbity means increased water temperature and reduced dissolved oxygen.
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Eventually suspended sediments settle to the streambed degrading the habitat of bottom-dwelling organisms |
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| Reduced downstream water suitability for agricultural, recreational, industrial and domestic uses. | |
Suspended particles may carry contaminants and pathogens, such as nutrients |
* Yet to be developed
Last updated: 27 August 2008