An evaluation of the environmental state of Lake Liepāja (Latvia) using elemental distributions in sediments

The concentrations of 33 elements in sediment samples from Lake Liepāja, Latvia, were determined by instrumental neutron activation analysis. Concentrations of Cr, Mn, Cu, Zn, Sb, Ba and Ta are enhanced in the northern part of the lake, probably because of pollution from solid waste disposed to the lake from metallurgical industry and other sources. Enrichment of Cl and U in the sediments of the northern part is likely to be associated with supply of marine elements through a channel between the lake and the Baltic Sea. Higher As levels in the southern part of the lake may be associated with agricultural practise in the area surrounding the lake.