Development of a Phosphorus-Eutrophication Management Strategy for Vermont: Evaluations Available Phosphorus Loads

摘要

Research was conducted to 1) review current information on the availability of phosphorus derived from off-lake point and nonpoint sources for phytoplankton growth in receiving water bodies, 2) present eutrophication management strategies with respect to phosphorus control, and 3) provide guidance on approaches that should be used to develop updated phosphorus management strategy for the State of Vermont. Pertinent information on phosphorous transport and availability was gathered from the literature, communication with other researchers in the field, and the authors' experience in developing phosphorus management strategies. It was found that, although significant amounts of phosphorus added to a river can be converted from forms that support algal growth (available phosphorous) to unavailable forms, the extent to which this occurs is highly river-specific. Field studies are recommended to determine the amount of algal-available phosphorus entering a river from point and nonpoint sources. Guidelines for conducting field studies are presented.