Changes in Water Hydrochemistry in Bays of the Bratsk Reservoir Caused by Forest Harvesting Operations

Abstract

For the first time, the results of studying the hydrochemical characteristics of bays in the Bratsk Reservoir, subject to the effect of forest harvesting operations are given. The obtained data include the concentrations of NO₃⁻, NO₂⁻, NH₄⁺, PO₄^-3, SiO₂, phenols, oil products, and organic matter and the oxygen regime of water in the bays. The concentration and distribution in water of biogenic elements and O₂-typical of wood decay processes-demonstrate the high self-purification capacity of ecosystems in the majority of bays. At the same time, water of some bays shows signs of eutrophication and high concentrations of phenols and oil products.