Research Publications: UM-SG-RS-2011-19

Share:

Title:

Quantifying annual nitrogen loads to Virginia's coastal lagoons: sources and water quality response.

Year:

2011

Authors:

Giordano, JCP; Brush, MJ; Anderson, IC

Source:

Estuaries and Coasts
34 ( 2 ) : 297 - 309

DOI:

10.1007/s12237-010-9345-7

Abstract:

Coastal lagoons of the Delmarva Peninsula receive varying annual nitrogen loads because of differing land uses. Extensive development and agriculture contribute to elevated nutrient loads in Maryland and Delaware. Agriculture and forests dominate Virginia's landscape, suggesting these systems receive lower loads. We used a watershed model to achieve three objectives: (1) quantify loads to Virginia lagoons; (2) determine the sources of the loads; and (3) project changes in annual loads under different development scenarios. Model simulations indicated that some Virginia lagoons receive relatively high annual nutrient loads (kg N year-1) due to intensive agriculture and a high watershed/lagoon areal ratio. Model projections also suggested that increased agricultural and residential development in Virginia could lead to annual loads (kg N year-1) typical of impacted Maryland systems. A comparison of Maryland and Virginia water quality responses to nutrient loading suggested that Virginia's lagoons exhibit a different response to nutrient loading, though the exact mechanism for this difference is unclear.

Related Research Project(s) Funded by Maryland Sea Grant:

Maryland Sea Grant Topic(s):

'Related Research Project(s)' link to details about research projects funded by Maryland Sea Grant that led to this publication. These details may include other impacts and accomplishments resulting from the research.

'Maryland Sea Grant Topic(s)' links to related pages on the Maryland Sea Grant website.

The Blue Crab: Callinectes Sapidus

An essential resource for researchers, students, and managers.  Get your copy today!

pile of cooked crabs