Nonpoint source phosphorus loads to Delaware's lakes and streams

Abstract

Phosphorus loads were estimated for 30 lakes and subwatersheds. Major land uses in the watersheds were cropland and forestland. Annual phosphorus loads varied from 0.42 to 1.19 kg/ha. Watersheds with over 60% cropland had higher phosphorus loading rates than watersheds with more than 40% forestland. Ortho phosphorus concentrations were much lower than total phosphorus concentrations.

Key words:

• Phosphorus
• Land Use
• Coastal Plain