Riverine water transformation during retention in small lowland reservoirs

Riverine water transformation during retention in small lowland reservoirsSix small dam reservoirs in northeastern Poland, with different hydrologic and catchment characteristics were selected for research from March to October (2001-2003). There was a significant correlation between DOC and TP in the reservoirs and the water retention time (WRT). The highest values of electrical conductivity (EC) were recorded in reservoirs with an agricultural basin. In almost all reservoirs a statistically significant decrease of EC, compared to inflowing waters, was noted. Nitrates were substantially reduced in afforested catchment reservoirs. The highest TP concentration was recorded in a newly flooded reservoir. In reservoirs with long retention time, phosphorus sedimentation takes place more intensively. This caused phosphorus reduction in outflowing waters.

Effects of Large-Scale Metalimnetic Migration Events on Phosphorus Dynamics In a North-Temperate Reservoir

In Eau Galle Reservoir, Wisconsin, early in the stratified period of 1982, hypolimnetic anoxia developed, soluble reactive phosphorus concentrations increased above the profundal sediment surface, and internal total phosphorus loading was high. Shortly thereafter, the passage of a cold front with high wind power resulted in mixing and a pronounced descent of the metalimnion. During this event, previously anoxic water within the metalimnion and upper hypolimnion became reoxygenated, internal total phosphorus loading declined to a minimum, and a loss of total phosphorus mass occurred from the metalimnion and hypolimnion. Total phosphorus mass in the epilimnion remained constant during this period. A similar pattern occurred during a large, wind-driven migration of the metalimnion in early August. During such events, phosphorus sedimentation rates increased in the hypolimnion, reflecting the loss of total phosphorus mass from the water column. In contrast, other investigations of lakes have reported that phosphorus is entrained into the epilimnion during metalimnetic migrations, rather than lost through sedimentation. Phosphorus sedimentation during large metalimnetic migration events in Eau Galle Reservoir may occur because previously anoxic water containing iron becomes reoxygenated, causing the coprecipitation and sedimentation of oxidized iron and phosphorus.