Sierra Nevada Aquatic Research Laboratory

06 Jul, 09 AM - 30 Jul, 03 AM

We are conducting focused set of experiments at two lakes in the Sierra Nevada to develop nutrient criteria for nitrogen and phosphorus (i.e., a nutrient concentration above which phytoplankton and algal growth are stimulated). Of the two lakes, one will be primarily N-limited with respect to primary productivity (Moat Lake, Hoover Wilderness) and the other limited by P (Hamilton Lake, Sequoia National Park). For both types of experiments the approach will be to create a gradient of nutrient levels. With results from these experiments we will use logistic modeling to determine effective doses for N and P. This study will provide a complimentary approach to establishing critical loads for N deposition based upon experimental manipulations rather than field observations. One advantage of nutrient criteria is they can be coupled to regional models of water quality to identify lakes where effects of atmospheric deposition may be occurring. For example, J. Sickman and D. Clow have developed predictive models of nitrate concentrations in Sierra Nevada and Rocky Mountain lakes based on watershed characteristics that can be derived from topographic maps and satellite imagery (i.e., slope, elevation, aspect, soil and vegetation cover).

Visit #18239 @Sierra Nevada Aquatic Research Laboratory

Approved

Under Project # 20073 | Research

Nutrient-Addition Experiments to Identify Nutrient Criteria for High Elevation Lakes of the Sierra Nevada

graduate_student - University of California, Riverside

Reservation Members(s)

Group of 2 Graduate Student Jul 6 - 30, 2009 (25 days)
Group of 4 Other Jul 6 - 30, 2009 (25 days)
Andi Heard Jul 6 - 30, 2009 (25 days)

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