All analyzed metals were present at low concentrations. Zinc and copper 

 concentrations were near or below detection limits on all three sampling 

 dates; iron concentrations were also low. Concentrations of all three metals 

 were well below established criteria for protection of aquatic life (EPA 

 1976). Similarly, concentrations of nitrate and nitrite (as nitrogen) were 

 near or below detection. 



Water quality concerns raised in association with the proposed mine 

 include acid mine drainage, metals pollution, and increased nutrient 

 additions. The relatively low buffering capacity and hardness of the upper 

 reaches of German Gulch Creek render it vulnerable to acid mine drainage and 

 metals pollution if they were to occur. Usage of nitrogenous blasting 

 compounds at the mine could also significantly increase nutrient loading in 

 the drainage. 



Chlorophyll Methods 



Natural stream substrates (small rocks having dimensions on the order of 

 3 to 9 cm length, 2 to 5.5 cm width, and 1 to A cm height) with attached 

 periphyton were collected on July 18, 1984 from German Gulch Creek near Butte. 

 Samples were collected from the same three locations chosen for water monitor- 

 ing. Rocks were randomly removed from the stream bottom and were placed in 

 pint canning jars; typically, five rocks were placed in each jar. The jars 

 were then capped, labeled, and wrapped in aluminum foil to prevent light from 

 entering. Jars were transferred in ice to the laboratory where the samples 

 were frozen to prevent breakdown of chlorophyll. 



Jars were later removed from the freezer and a known volume of 90% v/v 

 acetone was added to each. The jars were then recapped and stored for 21 to 

 22.5 hours under refrigerated conditions (occasional agitation was provided) 



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