Multi-tracer approach for characterizing rock glacier outflow

The present study used a multi-tracer approach (water stable isotopes, electrical conductivity (EC), and major, minor, and trace elements) to identify the impact of rock glacier outflow on water quality. Springs and streams/creeks fed by rock-glaciers were selected in the Upper Sulden and Zay catchment, South Tyrol (Eastern Italian Alps). Preliminary results indicate that all waters sampled in the study area derived from Atlantic water vapour as water source. Melt waters emerging from rock glaciers showed typical ice melt isotopic signatures (²H: -91 to -105‰) and relatively high EC (380 to 611µS cm-1). Preliminary results indicate that EC, Sr, and As concentrations could be used to differentiate rock glacier melt waters from stream waters.