spatial-temporal transformation of the volga reservoirs’ soil complex. communication 7. sediment formation in the highly running reservoirs of the volga cascade

Abstract

Large plain reservoirs are water bodies of a slow water exchange with Кw less than 10 year-1 contributing to multi-year (annual) flow regulation. All reservoirs of the Volga-Kama cascade belong to this type of reservoirs, except the Cheboksary and Saratov reservoirs with Кw about 20 year-1. Weekly and daily fluctuations of the runoff are observed in these reservoirs. This mode of operation of hydraulic constructions leads to an increase in the flow rate and fluctuations of the level, which determines the specific conditions for the formation and accumulation of bottom sediments characteristic of river systems. It is shown that the areas of coarse-grained sediments are 55 and 70%, respectively. The reservoirs under consideration are transit reservoirs for suspended substances and aerators for the oxidation of chemical pollutants and their neutralization, so they play a crucial role in the natural self-purification and management of natural water quality.

Keywords

• cheboksary and saratov reservoirs
• flow rate
• sediments
• monitoring
• transformation
• sedimentation balance
• water quality