This study is an attempt to develop a comprehensive understanding of the content, distribution, and origin of lead in surface and ground waters of northeastern New Mexico. In addition, we have attempted to determine the ultimate fate of lead from various sources in the environment. The data result from:

1. sampling: fresh precipitation, wells, streams, rivers, lakes; the biota of streams, rivers and lakes; other plants and animals of the region.
2. separation of heavy metal contaminants and radionuclides from various samples.
3. analytical chemical analyses for lead and other heavy metals.
4. radiochemical analyses of samples for Pb-210 (RaD) and Po-210 (RaF).

An attempt has been made to develop correlative means for determining a relationship among Pb concentrations,RaD concentrations, RaF concentrations, independently, and other factors such as concentrations, time of collection, and elevation of the sample collection.

Project No. A-046-NMEX