An evaluation of benthic nutrient regeneration in a projected flood control impoundment

Abstract

A flood control impoundment, which would also serve as a recreational facility, was proposed as part of the Upper Quaboag River watershed in western Massachusetts. To predict the impact exerted by a muck substrate on water quality and recreational benefits, a physical model was constructed in the laboratory. From the experiment, it was determined that the rate of nutrient release across the mud‐water interface was sufficient to encourage algal blooms, restrict secondary productivity, and thereby limit the use of the proposed impoundment for recreational purposes.

Key words:

• Eutrophication
• model
• impoundment
• nutrient loading