Limestone Neutralization of Dogway Fork, West Virginia, by Means of a Rotary‐Drum System

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Abstract
Research was conducted to determine the efficiency and effects of chemically treating Dogway Fork, a West Virginia stream acidified by acid precipitation. We report on the water‐powered rotary drum system used to apply calcium carbonate slurry to the stream. Two companion papers cover the biological and chemical effects of this treatment. The rotary drums provided near‐continuous treatment over a 4–year period. Limestone aggregate (1.3–3.8 cm) high in calcium carbonate was ground within the drums into slurry form. The relatively low cost of aggregate and its ease of storage permitted economical treatment. The system compared favorably to other types of slurry dosers. Limestone particles deposited in the stream sediment continued over time to be dissolved. They were significant in the overall dissolution efficiency of the limestone treatment. This sediment calcite also provided supplementary neutralization when high flow requirements exceeded the drum station's dosing capability.