Total Suspended Solids (TSS)
 

Total Suspended Solids (TSS) is a direct measurement of the concentration of suspended particulates, inorganic and organic in water. Other pollutants are also often absorbed into the particulate matter. These pollutants include nutrients, pesticides, other organics, bacteria and metals. The small particles disperse in liquid due to turbulent mixing that can create turbid or cloud conditions. Measured in milligrams per liter (mg/L).

1. A measure of the material suspended in wastewater. Total suspended solids (TSS) cause: a) interference with light penetration, b) buildup of sediment and c) potential reduction in aquatic habitat. Solids also carry nutrients that cause algal blooms and other toxic pollutants that are harmful to fish.

2. Very small particles remaining dispersed in a liquid due to turbulent mixing exceeding gravitational sinking that can create turbid or cloudy conditions.

  
Ravine Erosion
  


An unnamed intermittent creek flowing into High Island Creek next to High Island Creek County Park. The photo was taken during an intenstive storm in April of 2007.
The transport of sediment is a natural function of rivers. Elevated sediment (suspended soil particulates) has many impacts. It makes rivers look muddy, affecting aesthetics and swimming. Sediment carries nutrients, pesticides and other chemicals into the river that may impact fish and wildlife species. Sedimentation can restrict the areas where fish spawn, limit biological diversity, and keep the river water cloudy, reducing the potential for the growth of healthy aquatic plants.

Source: Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA)


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High Island Creek Clean Water Partnership | Sibley County, 111 8th Street, Gaylord, MN 55334
Phone 507-237-4050 | Fax 507-237-4099