Date of Award:

5-2013

Document Type:

Thesis

Degree Name:

Master of Science (MS)

Department:

Watershed Sciences

Department name when degree awarded

Watershed Science

Committee Chair(s)

Michelle A. Baker

Committee

Michelle A. Baker

Committee

Wayne A. Wurtsbaugh

Committee

David K. Stevens

Abstract

Our nation’s waterways are a valuable resource whose quality is influenced by their surroundings as well the amount of nutrients (largely nitrogen and phosphorus) in the water. Nutrients play an important role in aquatic ecosystems; however, if nutrient levels become too high, it is detrimental to water quality. Excess fertilizer that runs off of agricultural land and into the rivers and streams is a common source of nutrients in our waterways. Other sources of nitrogen and phosphorus include effluent released from wastewater facilities.

There are many negative side effects of high nutrients in the water. They can create large algal and bacteria blooms that release toxins, such as those released by cyanobacteria. When the algae start to decompose it consumes large amounts of oxygen, which can create a stressful environment for aquatic animals such as fish.

Through the funding of the Utah Division of Water Quality I studied the effects that varying nutrient levels have on oxygen consumption in select rivers in Northern Utah. I began the study in January, and ended in September allowing insight on impact that seasonal changes have on nutrient levels and oxygen consumption. I found that during the cold months elevated nutrient concentrations had little impact on oxygen consumption. However, as temperatures increased and during spring runoff elevated nutrient levels resulted in more oxygen consumption. I also identified potential nutrient-related thresholds that could be used to determine how much nitrogen and phosphorus can enter the waterways before it elevates oxygen consumption to unhealthy levels. Such information can be used by policymakers to protect aquatic life uses of water in the state of Utah.

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