The effects of a high-stack coal-burning power plant on the relative pH of the superficial bark of hardwood trees

Abstract

The Allen S. King Generating Plant near Bayport, Minnesota delivers 420 tons of sulfur dioxide to the atmosphere daily from a 789 foot (240 m) stack. Dispersal from this height theoretically minimizes harmful effects of the gases on vegetation. Six years of post-operational pH tests on hardwoods, in the area, show fluctuations in, but no significant increase of the bark acidity. Recorded pH values around the power plant were not significantly different from values obtained in several other localities in Minnesota. None of the pH values in Minnesota were within the ranges shown to be damaging to lichens in Swedish studies. Values for pH ranged from 4 to 9.

Parent Publication

• Proceedings of the first international symposium on acid precipitation and the forest ecosystem

Citation

Grether, David F. 1976. The effects of a high-stack coal-burning power plant on the relative pH of the superficial bark of hardwood trees. In: Dochinger, L. S.; Seliga, T. A., eds. Proceedings of the first international symposium on acid precipitation and the forest ecosystem; Gen. Tech. Rep. NE-23. Upper Darby, PA: U.S. Department of Agriculture, Forest Service, Northeastern Forest Experiment Station. 913-918