Seyhan dam - background
In this study surface sediment samples from five stations in the Seyhan dam were taken, see map. Sediments were analyzed for metal content, grain size and quantity of organic matter. Metals of interest was Cr, Zn,cu, Mn, Cd, Fe, Ca, K and Na. Measured values was then interpreted to gain information on level of pollution. Different evaluation methods were used to gain as fair a picture as possible of the contamination levels of each element and in relation to different parameters.
Sediment surface guideline values was also used to assess sediment ecosystem health and show possible effects on benthic organisms.
Study area
The dam was built in 1956 and is located across the river of Seyhan. It covers an area of 9.200 ha and rises in average 67 m above sea level. The rivers of Cakit and Körkun creek is also connected to the dam and its final outflow is into the Mediterranean Sea. The main land use in the catchment area is residential, agricultural and Chrome mining.
Map of Seyhan dam and sampling sites location 1 to 5. (Çevik et al. 2009)