Response in the trophic state of stratified lakes to changes in hydrology and water level: potential effects of climate change
To determine how climate-induced changes in hydrology and water level may affect the trophic state (productivity) of stratified lakes, two relatively pristine dimictic temperate lakes in Wisconsin, USA, were examined. Both are closed-basin lakes that experience changes in water level and degradation in water quality during periods of high water. One, a seepage lake with no inlets or outlets, has a small drainage basin and hydrology dominated by precipitation and groundwater exchange causing small changes in water and phosphorus (P) loading, which resulted in small changes in water level, P concentrations, and productivity. The other, a terminal lake with inlets but no outlets, has a large drainage basin and hydrology dominated by runoff causing large changes in water and P loading, which resulted in large changes in water level, P concentrations, and productivity. Eutrophication models accurately predicted the effects of changes in hydrology, P loading, and water level on their trophic state. If climate changes, larger changes in hydrology and water levels than previously observed could occur. If this causes increased water and P loading, stratified (dimictic and monomictic) lakes are expected to experience higher water levels and become more eutrophic, especially those with large developed drainage basins.
Citation Information
Publication Year | 2011 |
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Title | Response in the trophic state of stratified lakes to changes in hydrology and water level: potential effects of climate change |
DOI | 10.2166/wcc.2011.0026 |
Authors | Dale M. Robertson, William J. Rose |
Publication Type | Article |
Publication Subtype | Journal Article |
Series Title | Journal of Water and Climate Change |
Index ID | 70113267 |
Record Source | USGS Publications Warehouse |
USGS Organization | Wisconsin Water Science Center |