Nutrient Export of the Kentucky River to Detect Possible Eutrophication
Grade Level at Time of Presentation
Senior
Major
biology
Institution
Kentucky State University
Abstract
This eutrophication research project is aimed to compare nutrient concentration and water quality variables in the Kentucky River and its tributary Benson creek. Nutrient concentration and water quality variables are factors that cause algae to bloom. Getting a better understanding of nutrients and algae in freshwater will help to identify harmful algal blooms, predict where they may occur, and make efforts to avoid blooms. Water samples were collected from the Kentucky River and its tributary Benson creek in March and April, 2018. To explore eutrophication, the concentrations of nutrients such as nitrate, nitrite, ammonia and phosphate were tested. Other parameters such as water pH, temperature, level of dissolved oxygen, and turbidity were also recorded. The data and the possibility of eutrophication in Kentucky River will be discussed. Future research may be needed to closely observe the water quality of Kentucky River.
Nutrient Export of the Kentucky River to Detect Possible Eutrophication
This eutrophication research project is aimed to compare nutrient concentration and water quality variables in the Kentucky River and its tributary Benson creek. Nutrient concentration and water quality variables are factors that cause algae to bloom. Getting a better understanding of nutrients and algae in freshwater will help to identify harmful algal blooms, predict where they may occur, and make efforts to avoid blooms. Water samples were collected from the Kentucky River and its tributary Benson creek in March and April, 2018. To explore eutrophication, the concentrations of nutrients such as nitrate, nitrite, ammonia and phosphate were tested. Other parameters such as water pH, temperature, level of dissolved oxygen, and turbidity were also recorded. The data and the possibility of eutrophication in Kentucky River will be discussed. Future research may be needed to closely observe the water quality of Kentucky River.