Streamflow and nutrient concentration data needed to compute nitrogen and phosphorus loads were compiled from Federal, State, Provincial, and local agency databases and also from selected university databases. The nitrogen and phosphorus loads are necessary inputs to Spatially Referenced Regressions on Watershed Attributes (SPARROW) models. SPARROW models are a way to estimate the distribution, sources, and transport of nutrients in streams throughout the Midcontinental region of Canada and the United States. After screening the data, approximately 1,500 sites sampled by 34 agencies were identified as having suitable data for calculating the long-term mean-annual nutrient loads required for SPARROW model calibration. These final sites represent a wide range in watershed sizes, types of nutrient sources, and land-use and watershed characteristics in the Midcontinental region of Canada and the United States.
Citation Information
| Publication Year | 2018 |
|---|---|
| Title | Estimates of long-term mean-annual nutrient loads considered for use in SPARROW models of the Midcontinental region of Canada and the United States, 2002 base year |
| DOI | 10.3133/sir20185051 |
| Authors | David A. Saad, Glenn A. Benoy, Dale M. Robertson |
| Publication Type | Report |
| Publication Subtype | USGS Numbered Series |
| Series Title | Scientific Investigations Report |
| Series Number | 2018-5051 |
| Index ID | sir20185051 |
| Record Source | USGS Publications Warehouse |
| USGS Organization | Wisconsin Water Science Center |
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Water-quality and streamflow datasets used for estimating loads considered for use in the 2002 Midcontinent nutrient SPARROW models, United States and Canada, 1970-2012
David A Saad
Chief, Environmental Hydrodynamics Branch, Earth System Processes Division
Dale M Robertson
Research Hydrologist (Surface Water)
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Water-quality and streamflow datasets used for estimating loads considered for use in the 2002 Midcontinent nutrient SPARROW models, United States and Canada, 1970-2012
The United States Geological Survey's (USGS) SPAtially Referenced Regressions On Watershed attributes (SPARROW) model was developed to aid in the interpretation of monitoring data and simulate water-quality conditions in streams across large spatial scales. SPARROW is a hybrid empirical⁄process-based mass balance model that can be used to estimate the major sources and environmental factors - Connect
David A Saad
Chief, Environmental Hydrodynamics Branch, Earth System Processes DivisionEmailPhoneDale M Robertson
Research Hydrologist (Surface Water)EmailPhone