PHYSICAL AND CHEMICAL PROPERTIES OF SPRING WATERS OF FOREST-STEPPE AND FOREST LANDSCAPES IN THE REPUBLIC OF MORDOVIA

Abstract

. Aim. The paper identifies the differences in the properties of spring water in forest-steppe landscapes on the secondary moraine plain and mixed and broad-leaved forests on water-glacial plains. Methodology. The data were obtained as a result of field studies 10 Results. Information was obtained about 13 springs of forest-steppe landscapes (environs of Saransk and Ruzaevka) and 8 springs of landscapes of mixed and broad-leaved forests (National Park ‘Smolny’). When comparing the obtained data, significant differences in the physicochemical properties of springs in different landscapes were revealed. The rigidity, hydrogen index, trace element content and flow rate of the water from the springs of forest-steppe landscapes are greater than those from the springs of landscapes of mixed and broad-leaved forests. This is primarily due to the differences in the geological structure of the territories. Captation and the adjacent territory of most of the investigated springs are in good condition, and the water, according to the measured parameters, corresponds to the MPC standards. At the same time, the springs of forest-steppe landscapes are more often used by the local population and experience a stronger anthropogenic impact, both from the direct influence of visitors and as a result of groundwater pollution by land users. Research implications. The results of the study can be used to develop measures aimed at protecting the quality of groundwater and in updating the assessment of the water-resource potential of the Republic of Mordovia.