Chronological strategies and metal fluxes in semi-arid lake sediments

The largest flux of sediments to a semi-arid lake (Barrett Reservoir) was stream influx after the winter rains. During the times of no stream flow, resuspension of previously deposited material dominated. Direct atmospheric transport was minor but atmospheric particulates were evident in the sediments due to stream influx of particles containing a significant atmospherically derived component. Only an anthropogenic lead influx was measurable in the sedimentary record due to the high sedimentation rate. In semi-arid areas where intermittent stream flow occurs, more than one technique must be used to obtain an overall sedimentation rate. (author)