ATMOSPHERIC DEPOSITION OF MERCURY IN FLORIDA - THE FAMS PROJECT (1992-1994)

The primary goal of the Florida Atmospheric Mercury Study (FAMS) is to quantify the seasonal and geographical variability in the atmospheric deposition of Hg and other trace elements in central and south Florida. Precipitation, aerosol, and gaseous Hg samples have been collected at seven sites in Florida for periods ranging from 3 to 24 months. The summertime wet season in south Florida accounts for 80 to 90% of the annual rainfall Hg deposition. Depositional rates in south Florida are 30 to 50% higher than those from central Florida. Particle phase measurements range from 2 to 18 pg/m(3) Hg at all sites. Measurements of monomethylmercury in precipitation range from <0.005 to 0.020 ng/L.