Development of a Simple Phosphorus Model for a Large Urban Watershed: A Case Study
Publication: Journal of Environmental Engineering
Volume 132, Issue 4
Abstract
Often, the initiation of a total maximum daily load (TMDL) program is delayed until intensive monitoring data can be collected—even in watersheds where large historical data sets exist. This paper provides a case study of a modeling effort that utilizes available historical data to fulfill an intermediate goal of a TMDL program for the Passaic River Basin. The subject model is developed to simulate total phosphorus concentrations (and loads) within the basin’s effluent-dominated streams. The model is based on the assumption that the primary process controlling in-stream total phosphorus concentrations is the dilution of the cumulative upstream effluent load—which was computed on a continuous (daily) basis. Model comparisons indicate a generally good fit to long-term river-monitoring data at several key sites. Model results, and data analyses, suggest that secondary processes have a relatively minor impact on total phosphorus (TP) concentrations in this relatively large, urbanized system. This finding is consistent with a previous QUAL2E model study of the system, and consistent with the relatively conservative behavior of TP reported in many medium-to-large river systems throughout the United States. Model results are used to facilitate TMDL planning efforts for a major water supply reservoir in the basin.
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Acknowledgments
The writers would like to thank the New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection and the North Jersey District Water Supply Commission for funding the referenced studies. They would also like to thank both the anonymous reviewers and the Rutgers EcoComplex for their helpful comments.
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Information & Authors
Information
Published In
Journal of Environmental Engineering
Volume 132 • Issue 4 • April 2006
Pages: 538 - 546
Copyright
© ASCE.
History
Received: Mar 4, 2004
Accepted: Aug 10, 2005
Published online: Apr 1, 2006
Published in print: Apr 2006
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