Elements of Baseline Monitoring in Hydroecological Studies of Rivers in Belgorod Region

Abstract

The purpose is to identify the background indicators of small rivers in the Belgorod Region for biogenic elements (nitrates and phosphates). Materials and methods. The data of the study of biogenic elements content in water of small rivers of Belgorod Region (5 rivers in their upper watercourses) in diff erent hydrological seasons for the period 2024-2025 were investigated. Hydrochemical parameters were determined using potentiometric and photocolorimetric analysis methods. Mapping and landscape-functional zoning of catchment areas were carried out in the QGIS 3.40.2. The Pearson correlation was calculated using the STATISTICA 10. Results and discussion. Results and discussion. The sites in the upper watercourses of the Oskolets River, Olshanka River, Seversky Donets River, Vorskla River, and Korocha River were identifi ed, which can be considered as background, both in terms of values of current concentrations of biogenic elements and the nature of their seasonal change. The features of the agricultural background of rivers on the terms of the development of extensive agricultural activity are outlined. Conclusion. There is a steady agricultural background due to the infl ux of biogenic elements for the upper courses of the Belgorod Region rivers. Quasi-natural areas on the riverbeds with a "bioplato eff ect" make a contribution to the self-purifi cation of rivers.