The overall objective of this study is to assess the influence of age of the residential stormwater pond on internal sediment Phosphorus (P) dynamics. The study will evaluate if internal benthic sediment acts as a source or sink for the water column P. Over time, sediment P sorption capacity decreases due to increased P loading and decreased sediment loading from the watershed, thus reducing the ability of P storage and could gradually become a net source.
The specific objectives of the project are to assess the spatial (e.g., inlet, middle, outlet of the pond) behavior of the benthic sediment in adsorbing or desorbing water column P within the pond; and, evaluate the temporal (e.g., summer and winter) behavior of the benthic sediment in adsorbing or desorbing water column P. The results will assist stormwater managers, extension specialists and agents, residents, state and local decision-makers, and resource managers in making well-informed decisions regarding sediment, associated P, cyanobacteria management and health of downstream receiving water bodies.
Project Update
Article: Age as a Predictor of Phosphorus Mobility in Coastal Stormwater Ponds