Mapping and Estimation of Nitrogen and Sulfur Atmospheric Deposition Fluxes in Central Region of the Mexican Bajio

Abstract

The objective of this study was to assess the spatial and temporal distribution of nitrogen and sulfur deposition and its relationship with meteorological conditions in the metropolitan area of León in Guanajuato, México. N and S atmospheric deposition was collected using passive samplers (IER) in 10 sites in León City during three climatic seasons in 2018. Nitrate, ammonium, and sulfate concentrations and deposition fluxes of N and S were determined. From wind and air-mass trajectories analysis, mechanisms and possible sources contributing to N and S deposition in the study area were assessed. Atmospheric deposition fluxes were compared to critical load values reported for sensitive ecosystems in Europe. It was found that mean deposition flux for N (5.82 Kg N ha −1 year −1) was within the range of values reported for sensitive ecosystems in Nuevo México, Europe, and California. On the other hand, the mean deposition flux for S (13.77 S Kg ha −1 year −1) exceeded the critical load values proposed for Europe, suggesting that current S deposition could be a risk for ecosystems and water bodies in the region.