Reports
Chemical quality reconnaissance of water of Maryland streams
1966, Thomas, J.D.
Report of Investigations 5
Abstract
This is the first report of a systematic study of the chemical quality of Maryland streams. The sampling program was designed to cover the whole State on the reconnaissance level.
Surface waters of Maryland are satisfactory for most industrial, agricultural, and municipal uses. Most of the water is of the calcium bicarbonate type. Streams on the Eastern Shore above salt-water encroachment have dissolved-solids concentration less than 100 ppm (parts per million). Streams on the Piedmont contain a higher range of dissolved-solids concentration than streams on the Coastal Plain because of geologic conditions. The streams draining the eastern part of the Appalachian Region contain hard water.
Western Maryland streams receiving acid mine drainage are: North Branch Potomac, Youghiogheny, and Savage Rivers, Georges Creek, and some tributaries to these streams.
The streams entering the Potomac River vary in chemical quality. The type of water in the Potomac River will depend upon the discharge and the quality of water contributed by these streams.
