Project Status Report: Evaluating Agricultural Nonpoint Loadings on Pool 13 fromMaquoketa River Watershed, Iowa

摘要

Floodplains of the Upper Mississippi River System (UMRS) are continuouslyreceiving high sediment and nutrient (nitrate-N, phosphorus, pesticides) discharges from their tributary watersheds, primarily as a result of nonpoint agricultural runoff, that are affecting the quality of backwaters and contributing to eutrophication. Continued degradation of backwaters by sedimentation and nutrient enrichment are expected to adversely influence aquatic habitat by reducing its extent and diversity within the next 50 to 100 years. Thus, a scientific inquiry is needed to (1) understand the magnitude and spatial patterns of sediment and nutrient loadings and (2) quantify the benefits of alternative potential management strategies for agricultural areas in the Upper Mississippi River Basin. Results would provide a framework for planning and help watershed managers and policy makers develop effective management policies.