Management and Measurement of DO in Impoundments

A basis for the comparison of various mechanical devices used for artificially destratifying impoundments by calculating their hydraulic performance based on impoundment stability is recommended. Three problems with this calculation are discussed to avoid misinterpretation, influence of size and geometry on stability, natural changes in stability with time, and the basic hydraulic inefficiency of spring mixing if cold water is raised. Also, a mathematical model is developed for studying the DO budget in impoundments. A solution to the model is presented, using specially designed DO probe equipment. Finally, data are presented on the destratification of a 2,930-acre-ft impoundment in northern Kentucky by pumping. The hydraulic performance of the pump is calculated and the influence of the mixing on the reduced substances and the DO resources in the impoundment is shown. The most favorable time for destratification is also discussed. A bibliography on artificial destratification is included.