Nutrient Attenuation in Streams: A Simplified Model to Explain Field Observations
Publication: Journal of Environmental Engineering
Volume 146, Issue 8
Abstract
A parsimonious nutrient-periphyton model quantifying uptake and recycling below a steady nutrient point source was tested in a shallow, stony-bed river during summer low flow. Close to the source DIN and DRP concentrations decreased linearly with distance, the DIN:DRP uptake ratio was constant (although twice the Redfield ratio), and rates of photosynthesis and algal biomass were high—consistent with model predictions. Further downstream, DIN concentrations were near the detection limit (but DRP was measurable), and rates of photosynthesis and algal biomass were low—also consistent with model predictions. However, two model features were not supported by observations. First, concentrations of organic N and P remained constant, whereas the model predicts increasing concentrations. Second, observations showed that N and P recycling were decoupled, whereas the model assumes close coupling. Although the model was reliable close to the source, it over-simplified recycling in the test stream. The model could be improved by separating dissolved from particulate organics and including recycling from settled particulates and pH-mediated P release from sediment, although this would increase complexity and reduce parsimony.
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Data Availability Statement
Some or all data, models, or code that support the findings of this study are available from the corresponding author upon reasonable request.
Acknowledgments
Several colleagues helped with fieldwork including Richard McDowell, Sherry Schiff, Mike English, Brian Smith, Geoff Holland, Peter Arnold, Kerry Costley, and Craig DePree. Hawkes Bay Regional Council staff including Adam Uytendaal, Sandy Haeidekker, and Thomas Wilding provided information. The study was funded by the MBIE Cumulative Effects Programme contract CO1X1005.
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Published In
Journal of Environmental Engineering
Volume 146 • Issue 8 • August 2020
Copyright
©2020 American Society of Civil Engineers.
History
Received: Oct 4, 2019
Accepted: Feb 25, 2020
Published online: Jun 12, 2020
Published in print: Aug 1, 2020
Discussion open until: Nov 12, 2020
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