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Dale M Robertson

Dale Robertson is a Research Hydrologist with the Upper Midwest Water Science Center.

Dale is an Adjunct Professor at the University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, Michigan Technological University, and University of Toledo, and a Honorary Fellow with the Center for Limnology at the University of Wisconsin-Madison. His current research with the USGS deals with modeling eutrophication and mixing in lakes, estimating loads and concentrations of nutrients and sediment in streams over large geographic areas, such as the Great Lakes and Mississippi River Basins, developing nutrient criteria for streams and rivers, and examining the effects of various environmental factors on the physical dynamics, ice cover, and productivity of lakes.

 

AREAS OF EXPERTISE

  • Biogeochemistry - Hydrology/Limnology
  • Eutrophication - Nutrient Transport and Fate
  • Limnology
  • Water-quality modeling in Lakes
  • Watershed modeling (SPARROW)
  • Influence of environmental factors, watershed management strategies, and in-lake management alternatives on the water quality of rivers and lakes
  • Regional loading estimates

Education and Certifications

  • Post-Doctoral Research Fellow, in Reservoir Modeling - Centre for Water Research, University of Western Australia, Perth. 1989-1991.

  • Ph.D Oceanography and Limnology - University of Wisconsin-Madison.

  • M.S. Oceanography and Limnology-University of Wisconsin-Madison.

    Thesis:"Interbasin Separation and Its Impact on the Annual Heat Budgets of the Individual Basins in Trout Lake, Wisconsin," 1981-1984.

  • B.S. Biology, Chemistry, and Mathematics - St. Norbert College, DePere, Wisconsin, 1976-1981.

Science and Products

Filter Total Items: 14
Photo of the Camp Manito-wish YMCA boat house on Lake Boulder, Wis., during fall

Lake monitoring and research

Studying lakes provides an improved understanding of lake ecosystem dynamics and valuable information that helps lead to sound lake-management policies. The USGS collects hydrologic data in lake settings, studies water and nutrient budget development, conducts source-loading analysis, explores groundwater interactions, and performs lake water-quality modeling.
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
Lake monitoring and research

Lake monitoring and research

Studying lakes provides an improved understanding of lake ecosystem dynamics and valuable information that helps lead to sound lake-management policies. The USGS collects hydrologic data in lake settings, studies water and nutrient budget development, conducts source-loading analysis, explores groundwater interactions, and performs lake water-quality modeling.
Learn More
Figure showing phosphorus delivered from throughout the MRB3 basin

SPARROW modeling: Great Lakes, Mississippi River, Ohio River, and Red River Basins

SPARROW models for the Great Lakes, Ohio River, Upper Mississippi River, and Red River Basins predict long-term mean annual loads, yields, concentrations, and source contributions of water, nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment throughout the Midwest.
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
SPARROW modeling: Great Lakes, Mississippi River, Ohio River, and Red River Basins

SPARROW modeling: Great Lakes, Mississippi River, Ohio River, and Red River Basins

SPARROW models for the Great Lakes, Ohio River, Upper Mississippi River, and Red River Basins predict long-term mean annual loads, yields, concentrations, and source contributions of water, nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment throughout the Midwest.
Learn More
Colored pencil illustration showing fishermen at lake, fish, water sampling, farmer in field and sailboats

Green Lake and its tributaries: Water quality and hydrology

Green Lake is the deepest natural inland lake in Wisconsin. Through time its water quality has degraded, with relatively high phosphorus concentrations and zones of hypoxia. This project is quantifying the water quality of the lake and its tributaries, and it will provide information to help guide efforts to improve the lake.
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
Green Lake and its tributaries: Water quality and hydrology

Green Lake and its tributaries: Water quality and hydrology

Green Lake is the deepest natural inland lake in Wisconsin. Through time its water quality has degraded, with relatively high phosphorus concentrations and zones of hypoxia. This project is quantifying the water quality of the lake and its tributaries, and it will provide information to help guide efforts to improve the lake.
Learn More
Map showing locations of the study area and the monitoring sites on Jackson Creek

Delavan Lake: Hydrology, water quality, and biology

Eutrophication of Delavan Lake accelerated from the 1940s to 1980s, resulting in a hypereutrophic lake with severe blue-green algae blooms. Extensive rehabilitation efforts were implemented to improve water quality. The USGS measured nutrients, suspended sediment, water quality, and plankton populations to quantify the effectiveness of rehabilitation efforts and guide future management decisions.
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
Delavan Lake: Hydrology, water quality, and biology

Delavan Lake: Hydrology, water quality, and biology

Eutrophication of Delavan Lake accelerated from the 1940s to 1980s, resulting in a hypereutrophic lake with severe blue-green algae blooms. Extensive rehabilitation efforts were implemented to improve water quality. The USGS measured nutrients, suspended sediment, water quality, and plankton populations to quantify the effectiveness of rehabilitation efforts and guide future management decisions.
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Photograph of Geneva Lake from the Geneva Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce

Geneva Lake: Water quality, hydrology, and biology

To reduce the impact of increasing urban development and recreational use on Geneva Lake, efforts are being made to decrease point- and nonpoint-source pollution inputs. To document Geneva Lake's water quality, the USGS collected water-quality data and developed empirical eutrophication models to demonstrate that reductions in phosphorus loading were related to water-quality improvements.
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
Geneva Lake: Water quality, hydrology, and biology

Geneva Lake: Water quality, hydrology, and biology

To reduce the impact of increasing urban development and recreational use on Geneva Lake, efforts are being made to decrease point- and nonpoint-source pollution inputs. To document Geneva Lake's water quality, the USGS collected water-quality data and developed empirical eutrophication models to demonstrate that reductions in phosphorus loading were related to water-quality improvements.
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Photograph of a tributary to the Fox River

Water quality of the lower Fox River tributaries and Duck Creek watersheds

The USGS is evaluating the effectiveness of non-point pollution control measures in five watersheds in the Lower Fox River and Duck Creek watersheds and comparing daily phosphorus and suspended solids loads for each watershed.
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
Water quality of the lower Fox River tributaries and Duck Creek watersheds

Water quality of the lower Fox River tributaries and Duck Creek watersheds

The USGS is evaluating the effectiveness of non-point pollution control measures in five watersheds in the Lower Fox River and Duck Creek watersheds and comparing daily phosphorus and suspended solids loads for each watershed.
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Figure showing nutrient yields delivered from throughout the MARB to the Gulf of Mexico

SPARROW nutrient modeling: Mississippi/Atchafalaya River Basin (MARB)

SPARROW models for the Mississippi/Atchafalaya River Basin(MARB) predict long-term average loads, concentrations, yields, and source contributions of water, nitrogen, phosphorus, and suspended sediment to the Gulf of Mexico.
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
SPARROW nutrient modeling: Mississippi/Atchafalaya River Basin (MARB)

SPARROW nutrient modeling: Mississippi/Atchafalaya River Basin (MARB)

SPARROW models for the Mississippi/Atchafalaya River Basin(MARB) predict long-term average loads, concentrations, yields, and source contributions of water, nitrogen, phosphorus, and suspended sediment to the Gulf of Mexico.
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Figure showing the Mid-Continental SPARROW model study area, with monitoring sites identified.

SPARROW nutrient modeling: Binational (US/Canada) models

SPARROW phosphorus and nitrogen models are being developed for the entire Great Lakes Basin and the Upper Midwest part of the U.S., and the Red and Assiniboine River Basin, as part of a Binational project between the USGS and the International Joint Commission (IJC) and National Research Council (NRC) of Canada.
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
SPARROW nutrient modeling: Binational (US/Canada) models

SPARROW nutrient modeling: Binational (US/Canada) models

SPARROW phosphorus and nitrogen models are being developed for the entire Great Lakes Basin and the Upper Midwest part of the U.S., and the Red and Assiniboine River Basin, as part of a Binational project between the USGS and the International Joint Commission (IJC) and National Research Council (NRC) of Canada.
Learn More
Image showing a schematic of the SPARROW model components

SPARROW modeling: Estimating nutrient, sediment, and dissolved solids transport

SPARROW (SPAtially Referenced Regression On Watershed attributes) models estimate the amount of a contaminant transported from inland watersheds to larger water bodies by linking monitoring data with information on watershed characteristics and contaminant sources. Interactive, online SPARROW mapping tools allow for easy access to explore relations between human activities, natural processes, and...
By
Water Resources Mission Area, National Water Quality Program, Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Gulf of America
SPARROW modeling: Estimating nutrient, sediment, and dissolved solids transport

SPARROW modeling: Estimating nutrient, sediment, and dissolved solids transport

SPARROW (SPAtially Referenced Regression On Watershed attributes) models estimate the amount of a contaminant transported from inland watersheds to larger water bodies by linking monitoring data with information on watershed characteristics and contaminant sources. Interactive, online SPARROW mapping tools allow for easy access to explore relations between human activities, natural processes, and...
Learn More

Winnebago pool lakes: Hydrology, water quality, and response to simulated changes in phosphorus loading

The Winnebago Pool Lakes are shallow, productive drainage lakes that have accumulated nutrients from its mixed agricultural/forest watershed and from the Fox River. High phosphorus concentrations often result in severe blue-green algae blooms that can produce harmful toxins. The USGS is evaluating the water quality and phosphorus budget of each lake and modeling eutrophication responses.
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
Winnebago pool lakes: Hydrology, water quality, and response to simulated changes in phosphorus loading

Winnebago pool lakes: Hydrology, water quality, and response to simulated changes in phosphorus loading

The Winnebago Pool Lakes are shallow, productive drainage lakes that have accumulated nutrients from its mixed agricultural/forest watershed and from the Fox River. High phosphorus concentrations often result in severe blue-green algae blooms that can produce harmful toxins. The USGS is evaluating the water quality and phosphorus budget of each lake and modeling eutrophication responses.
Learn More
Photo of aerators installed at Little St. Germain Lake, Wis., to prevent winter anoxia

Little St. Germain Lake: Phosphorus loading, winter anoxia, and stage regulation

Little St. Germain Lake, Wis., consists of four main basins separated by narrows. This study monitored lake water quality, identified phosphorus sources, determined spatial and temporal distribution of oxygen, evaluated the effectiveness of winter aeration systems, and modeled groundwater/lake-water interactions.
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
Little St. Germain Lake: Phosphorus loading, winter anoxia, and stage regulation

Little St. Germain Lake: Phosphorus loading, winter anoxia, and stage regulation

Little St. Germain Lake, Wis., consists of four main basins separated by narrows. This study monitored lake water quality, identified phosphorus sources, determined spatial and temporal distribution of oxygen, evaluated the effectiveness of winter aeration systems, and modeled groundwater/lake-water interactions.
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Anvil Lake: Response of lake water quality to changes in nutrient loading, with special emphasis on the effects of changes in water level

Anvil Lake is a relatively shallow, high-quality lake whose water level has dropped dramatically in recent years, adversely affecting the recreational and aesthetic values of the lake. The USGS is developing detailed water and phosphorus budgets, determining groundwater contributions, modeling likely responses to changes in phosphorus loading, and assessing the effect of climate on water quality.
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
Anvil Lake: Response of lake water quality to changes in nutrient loading, with special emphasis on the effects of changes in water level

Anvil Lake: Response of lake water quality to changes in nutrient loading, with special emphasis on the effects of changes in water level

Anvil Lake is a relatively shallow, high-quality lake whose water level has dropped dramatically in recent years, adversely affecting the recreational and aesthetic values of the lake. The USGS is developing detailed water and phosphorus budgets, determining groundwater contributions, modeling likely responses to changes in phosphorus loading, and assessing the effect of climate on water quality.
Learn More
Filter Total Items: 15

Phosphorus, nitrogen, chloride, and suspended-sediment load estimates for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative tributary monitoring network: Water years 2011–2023 Phosphorus, nitrogen, chloride, and suspended-sediment load estimates for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative tributary monitoring network: Water years 2011–2023

Phosphorus, nitrogen, chloride, and suspended-sediment loads, in 24 U.S. tributaries of the Great Lakes, were estimated using U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) data from the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) monitoring program for the period Oct 2010 through Sept 2023 (USGS water years 2011-23). Specific water-quality constituents include total phosphorus, orthophosphate, particulate...
By
Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Model and Data Resources Supporting Water-Quality Modeling of Hydrologic Systems Model and Data Resources Supporting Water-Quality Modeling of Hydrologic Systems

This dataset provides detailed information on availability of model resources (including models and datasets) that support the modeling of six key water-quality constituents (or constituent categories) across the hydrologic system. In addition, resources associated with nine “cross-cutting” topics for modeling water quality are included, with “cross-cutting” defined herein as having...
By
New England Water Science Center

Concentrations and loads of phosphorus and suspended solids in the Fox River, Northeastern Wisconsin, 1989–2021 Concentrations and loads of phosphorus and suspended solids in the Fox River, Northeastern Wisconsin, 1989–2021

Concentrations and loads of total phosphorus, dissolved phosphorus, and suspended solids were estimated for three sites on the Lower Fox River for October 1988 through September 2021. The sites are the Fox River at Neenah-Menasha (040844105), Fox River at DePere (04085059), and Fox River at the Mouth (040851385). Data analysis was conducted with the Weighted Regressions on Time...
By
Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Phosphorus, nitrogen, and suspended-sediment loads measured at the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative tributary monitoring network: Water years 2011–2020 Phosphorus, nitrogen, and suspended-sediment loads measured at the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative tributary monitoring network: Water years 2011–2020

Phosphorus, nitrogen, and suspended-sediment loads, in 24 U.S. tributaries of the Great Lakes, were calculated using U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) data from the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) monitoring program for the period Oct 2010 through Sept 2020 (USGS water years 2011–2020). Total phosphorus, orthophosphate, particulate phosphorus, total nitrogen, nitrate plus nitrite...
By
Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Total phosphorus loads estimated from tributaries and direct drainages to the Great Lakes during 2012-2018 using the model load ratio approach and the unit area load approach Total phosphorus loads estimated from tributaries and direct drainages to the Great Lakes during 2012-2018 using the model load ratio approach and the unit area load approach

In this data release, we provide the data used to compute total annual phosphorus loads from tributaries and direct drainages to the Great Lakes during 2012-18 using the model load ratio approach and the unit area load approach and the resulting annual loads for 2012–18. This data release consists of: (1) measured loads at 24 sites, computed using the surrogate regression approach...
By
Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Regression and load estimates for the tributary nutrient and sediment monitoring program on the Great Lakes, 2011-2013 Regression and load estimates for the tributary nutrient and sediment monitoring program on the Great Lakes, 2011-2013

Nutrient and sediment regression information (diagnostics and coefficients) and estimated load data from 30 tributaries to the Great Lakes, beginning of the program (water year 2011) to water year 2013.
By
Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Eutrophication models to simulate changes in the water quality of Green Lake, Wisconsin in response to changes in phosphorus loading, with supporting water-quality data for the lake, its tributaries, and atmospheric deposition Eutrophication models to simulate changes in the water quality of Green Lake, Wisconsin in response to changes in phosphorus loading, with supporting water-quality data for the lake, its tributaries, and atmospheric deposition

In this data release, we provide data to describe the water quality in Green Lake, Wisconsin, from 1905 to 2020, primarily the constituents for which it is impaired, including near-surface total phosphorus concentrations and metalimnetic dissolved oxygen concentrations, and quantify the water and phosphorus inputs to the lake. We also provide inputs to and outputs from the General Lake...
By
Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Nutrient Load Data used to Quantify Regional Effects of Agricultural Best Management Practices: An application of the 2012 SPARROW models for the Midwest, Northeast, and Southeast United States Nutrient Load Data used to Quantify Regional Effects of Agricultural Best Management Practices: An application of the 2012 SPARROW models for the Midwest, Northeast, and Southeast United States

Nitrogen and phosphorus losses from agricultural areas have impacted the water quality of downstream rivers, lakes, and oceans. As a result, investment in the adoption of agricultural best management practices (BMPs) has grown but assessments of their effectiveness at large spatial scales have been sparse. This study applies regional Spatially Referenced Regression On Watershed...
By
Lower Mississippi-Gulf Water Science Center

Long-term mean annual total nitrogen and total phosphorus loads estimated using Fluxmaster 5-parameter models and detrended to 2012, Midwest Region of the United States, 1999-2014 Long-term mean annual total nitrogen and total phosphorus loads estimated using Fluxmaster 5-parameter models and detrended to 2012, Midwest Region of the United States, 1999-2014

This USGS data release contains long-term mean annual total nitrogen and total phosphorus load estimates, and the model coefficients used to obtain the load estimates, for streams in the Midwest Region of the United States. The loads were estimated using the Fluxmaster program (Schwarz and others, 2006, https://pubs.usgs.gov/tm/2006/tm6b3) with a 5-parameter model and detrending to 2012...
By
Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

SPARROW model inputs and simulated streamflow, nutrient and suspended-sediment loads in streams of the Midwestern United States, 2012 Base Year SPARROW model inputs and simulated streamflow, nutrient and suspended-sediment loads in streams of the Midwestern United States, 2012 Base Year

The U.S. Geological Survey's (USGS) SPAtially Referenced Regression On Watershed attributes (SPARROW) model was used to aid in the interpretation of monitoring data and simulate streamflow and water-quality conditions in streams across the Midwest Region of the United States. SPARROW is a hybrid empirical/process-based mass balance model that can be used to estimate the major sources and...
By
Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

SPARROW model simulated nutrient loads in streams of the Midcontinental Region of Canada and the United States, 2002 Base Year SPARROW model simulated nutrient loads in streams of the Midcontinental Region of Canada and the United States, 2002 Base Year

The U.S. Geological Survey's (USGS) SPAtially Referenced Regression On Watershed attributes (SPARROW) model was developed to aid in the interpretation of monitoring data and simulate water-quality conditions in streams across the Midcontinental Region of Canada and the Unites States. SPARROW is a hybrid empirical⁄process-based mass balance model that can be used to estimate the major...
By
Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Water-quality and streamflow datasets used for estimating long-term mean daily streamflow and annual loads to be considered for use in regional streamflow, nutrient and sediment SPARROW models, United States, 1999-2014 Water-quality and streamflow datasets used for estimating long-term mean daily streamflow and annual loads to be considered for use in regional streamflow, nutrient and sediment SPARROW models, United States, 1999-2014

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...
By
Water Resources Mission Area
Map of Green Lake, Wisconsin and its watershed, with sampling data
Green Lake, Wisconsin and its watershed, with sampling
Green Lake, Wisconsin and its watershed, with sampling
Map of Green Lake, Wisconsin and its watershed, with sampling data

Green Lake, Wisconsin and its watershed, with sampling

Green Lake, Wisconsin and its watershed, with sampling

Map of Green Lake, Wisconsin, and its watershed, with sampling data.

By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
Map of Green Lake, Wisconsin and its watershed, with sampling data

Green Lake, Wisconsin and its watershed, with sampling

Green Lake, Wisconsin and its watershed, with sampling

Map of Green Lake, Wisconsin, and its watershed, with sampling data.

By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
Filter Total Items: 156

Changes in phosphorus concentration and flux from 2011 to 2023 in major U.S. tributaries to the Laurentian Great Lakes Changes in phosphorus concentration and flux from 2011 to 2023 in major U.S. tributaries to the Laurentian Great Lakes

Reducing phosphorus (P) flux to the Great Lakes is critical for improving water quality and controlling eutrophication. We used 13 water years (2011–2023) of U.S. Geological Survey data from 24 major U.S. tributaries (representing 47% of the U.S. Great Lakes watershed area) to evaluate temporal changes in orthophosphate (PO4-P) and total P (TP) using Weighted Regressions on Time...
Authors
Dustin William Kincaid, Matthew Diebel, Erin E. Bertke, Donald Bonville, G. Koltun, Dale M. Robertson, Luke Loken
By
New York Water Science Center, Ohio-Kentucky-Indiana Water Science Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

One-hundred fundamental, open questions to integrate methodological approaches in lake ice research One-hundred fundamental, open questions to integrate methodological approaches in lake ice research

The rate of technological innovation within aquatic sciences outpaces the collective ability of individual scientists within the field to make appropriate use of those technologies. The process of in situ lake sampling remains the primary choice to comprehensively understand an aquatic ecosystem at local scales; however, the impact of climate change on lakes necessitates the rapid...
Authors
Joshua Culpepper, Sapna Sharma, Grant Gunn, Madeline Magee, Michael Meyer, Eric Anderson, Christoper Arp, Sarah Cooley, Wayana Dolan, Hilary Dugan, Claude Duguay, Benjamin Jones, Georgiy Kirillin, Robert Ladwig, Matti Lepparanta, Di Long, John Magnuson, Tamlin Pavelsky, Sebastiano Piccolroaz, Dale M. Robertson, Bethel Steele, Manu Tom, Gesa Weyhenmeyer, R. Iesytn Woolway, Marguerite A. Xenopoulos, Xiao Yang
By
Water Resources Mission Area, Geosciences and Environmental Change Science Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Gaps in water quality modeling of hydrologic systems Gaps in water quality modeling of hydrologic systems

This review assesses gaps in water quality modeling, emphasizing opportunities to improve next-generation models that are essential for managing water quality and are integral to meeting goals of scientific and management agencies. In particular, this paper identifies gaps in water quality modeling capabilities that, if addressed, could support assessments, projections, and evaluations...
Authors
Lisa Lucas, Craig J. Brown, Dale M. Robertson, Nancy Baker, Zachary Johnson, Christopher Green, Jong Cho, Melinda L. Erickson, Allen Gellis, Jeramy Jasmann, Noah Knowles, Andreas Prein, Paul Stackelberg
By
Water Resources Mission Area

Seasonally varying contributions of contemporaneous and lagged sources of instream total nitrogen and phosphorus load across the Illinois River basin Seasonally varying contributions of contemporaneous and lagged sources of instream total nitrogen and phosphorus load across the Illinois River basin

Quantifying nutrient sources in streams, their temporal and spatial variability, and drivers of that variability can support effective water resources management. Yet a lack of data and modeling capabilities has previously prevented comprehensive quantification across both space and time. Here a dynamic SPARROW (Spatially Referenced Regressions on Watershed attributes) model that...
Authors
Noah Schmadel, Olivia Miller, Scott Ator, Matthew P. Miller, Gregory Schwarz, Dale M. Robertson, Andrew Sekellick, Kenneth Skinner, David A. Saad
By
Water Resources Mission Area, Idaho Water Science Center, Maryland-Delaware-D.C. Water Science Center, Utah Water Science Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

U.S. Geological Survey Mississippi River Science Forum—Summary of data and science needs and next steps U.S. Geological Survey Mississippi River Science Forum—Summary of data and science needs and next steps

The U.S. Geological Survey hosted a Mississippi River Science Forum with Federal agencies; Tribal, State, and local governments located in States that border the Mississippi River; academia; and other interested stakeholders. The purpose of the forum was to share current (2023) science; identify data gaps and areas of concern; and to prioritize next steps needed to advance the goals of...
Authors
John Nelson, Richard Rebich, Kathi Jankowski, Thea Edwards, James Larson, Dale M. Robertson, Lori Sprague, Sarah Stackpoole, Katherine Summers, Peter Cinotto, Paul Rydlund, Christopher Churchill, Wesley Daniel, Owen McKenna, Beth Middleton, Jacoby Carter, Stephen Hartley, Jeffrey Frey, Kelly Warner
By
Ecosystems Land Change Science Program

Connecting tributary mercury loads to nearshore and offshore sediments in Lake Superior Connecting tributary mercury loads to nearshore and offshore sediments in Lake Superior

Lake Superior has a vast and largely undeveloped watershed in comparison to the other Great Lakes, which makes it challenging to study mercury (Hg) sources and cycling. To examine Hg inputs to Lake Superior, we conducted an expansive binational assessment in 40 watersheds from a diverse range of landcover types. We further paired tributary Hg data to sediment source portfolios in the...
Authors
Sarah E. Janssen, Michael T. Tate, Eric Dantoin, Christopher Filstrup, Euan D Reavie, Robert Stewart, Chris Robinson, Craig Allan, Dale M. Robertson, David Krabbenhoft
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, M3 Research Laboratory

Prioritizing river basins for nutrient studies Prioritizing river basins for nutrient studies

Increases in fluxes of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) in the environment have led to negative impacts affecting drinking water, eutrophication, harmful algal blooms, climate change, and biodiversity loss. Because of the importance, scale, and complexity of these issues, it may be useful to consider methods for prioritizing nutrient research in representative drainage basins within a...
Authors
Anthony Tesoriero, Dale M. Robertson, Christopher Green, J.K. Bohlke, Judson Harvey, Sharon Qi
By
Water Resources Mission Area, Oregon Water Science Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Evaluating the suitability of large-scale datasets to estimate nitrogen loads and yields across different spatial scales Evaluating the suitability of large-scale datasets to estimate nitrogen loads and yields across different spatial scales

Decision makers are often confronted with inadequate information to predict nutrient loads and yields in freshwater ecosystems at large spatial scales. We evaluate the potential of using data mapped at large spatial scales (regional to global) and often coarse resolution to predict nitrogen yields at varying smaller scales (e.g., at the catchment and stream reach level). We applied the...
Authors
Andres Suarez-Castro, Dale M. Robertson, Bernhard Lehner, Marcelo de Souza, Michael Kittridge, David A. Saad, Simon Linke, Rich McDowell, Mohammad Ranjbar, Olivier Ausseil, David Hamilton
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Changes in phosphorus and suspended solids loading in the Fox River, northeastern Wisconsin, 1989–2021 Changes in phosphorus and suspended solids loading in the Fox River, northeastern Wisconsin, 1989–2021

The entire Lower Fox River and inner bay of Green Bay, in northeastern Wisconsin, have been listed as impaired by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) for low dissolved oxygen and degraded habitat, with total phosphorus (TP) and total suspended solids (TSS) concentrations listed as the likely causes of these impairments. To restore the Fox River and Green Bay, total...
Authors
Dale M. Robertson, Matthew Diebel, Sarah Bartlett, Kevin J. Fermanich
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Response in the water quality of Delavan Lake, Wisconsin, to changes in phosphorus loading—Setting new goals for loading from its drainage basin Response in the water quality of Delavan Lake, Wisconsin, to changes in phosphorus loading—Setting new goals for loading from its drainage basin

During 1989–92, an extensive rehabilitation project was completed in and around Delavan Lake, Wisconsin, to improve the lake’s water quality. However, in 2016, the lake was listed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources as impaired for excessive algal growth (high chlorophyll a concentrations), and high phosphorus input was listed as its likely cause. In addition, the recent...
Authors
Dale M. Robertson, Benjamin Siebers, Reed Fredrick
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Assessment of conservation management practices on water quality and observed trends in the Plum Creek Basin, 2010–20 Assessment of conservation management practices on water quality and observed trends in the Plum Creek Basin, 2010–20

The U.S. Geological Survey and University of Wisconsin–Green Bay collected hydrologic and water-quality data to assess the effectiveness of agricultural conservation management practice (CMP) implementation at mainstem Plum Creek and west Plum Creek in northeastern Wisconsin. These two subbasins cover 88 percent of the Plum Creek Basin (Hydrologic Unit Code 12), which is a subbasin of...
Authors
Judy Horwatich, Kevin Fermanich, Matthew Pronschinske, Dale Robertson, Sarah Kussow, Luke Loken, Paul Reneau, Jeremy Freund, Matthew Komiskey
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Agricultural conservation practices could help offset climate change impacts on cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms in Lake Erie Agricultural conservation practices could help offset climate change impacts on cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms in Lake Erie

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) are a recurring problem in many temperate large lake and coastal marine ecosystems, caused mainly by anthropogenic eutrophication. Implementation of agricultural conservation practices (ACPs) offers a means to reduce non-point source nutrient runoff and mitigate HABs. However, the effectiveness of ACPs in a changing climate remains uncertain. We used an...
Authors
Michael Fraker, Noel Aloysius, Jay Martin, S. Keitzer, David Dippold, Haw Yen, Jeffrey Arnold, Prasad Daggupati, Mari-Vaughn Johnson, Dale M. Robertson, Scott Sowa, Michael White, Stuart Ludsin
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
Homing in on sources and yields of nitrogen and phosphorus throughout the Mississippi/Atchafalaya River Basin

Homing in on sources and yields of nitrogen and phosphorus throughout the Mississippi/Atchafalaya River Basin

A new USGS study estimates total nitrogen (N) and total phosphorus (P) yields from catchments throughout the Mississippi/Atchafalaya River Basin...

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Sources of Excessive Nutrients in the Transboundary Red-Assiniboine River Basin Identified by Binational Research Team

Sources of Excessive Nutrients in the Transboundary Red-Assiniboine River Basin Identified by Binational Research Team

  

Read Article

Science and Products

Filter Total Items: 14
Photo of the Camp Manito-wish YMCA boat house on Lake Boulder, Wis., during fall

Lake monitoring and research

Studying lakes provides an improved understanding of lake ecosystem dynamics and valuable information that helps lead to sound lake-management policies. The USGS collects hydrologic data in lake settings, studies water and nutrient budget development, conducts source-loading analysis, explores groundwater interactions, and performs lake water-quality modeling.
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
Lake monitoring and research

Lake monitoring and research

Studying lakes provides an improved understanding of lake ecosystem dynamics and valuable information that helps lead to sound lake-management policies. The USGS collects hydrologic data in lake settings, studies water and nutrient budget development, conducts source-loading analysis, explores groundwater interactions, and performs lake water-quality modeling.
Learn More
Figure showing phosphorus delivered from throughout the MRB3 basin

SPARROW modeling: Great Lakes, Mississippi River, Ohio River, and Red River Basins

SPARROW models for the Great Lakes, Ohio River, Upper Mississippi River, and Red River Basins predict long-term mean annual loads, yields, concentrations, and source contributions of water, nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment throughout the Midwest.
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
SPARROW modeling: Great Lakes, Mississippi River, Ohio River, and Red River Basins

SPARROW modeling: Great Lakes, Mississippi River, Ohio River, and Red River Basins

SPARROW models for the Great Lakes, Ohio River, Upper Mississippi River, and Red River Basins predict long-term mean annual loads, yields, concentrations, and source contributions of water, nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment throughout the Midwest.
Learn More
Colored pencil illustration showing fishermen at lake, fish, water sampling, farmer in field and sailboats

Green Lake and its tributaries: Water quality and hydrology

Green Lake is the deepest natural inland lake in Wisconsin. Through time its water quality has degraded, with relatively high phosphorus concentrations and zones of hypoxia. This project is quantifying the water quality of the lake and its tributaries, and it will provide information to help guide efforts to improve the lake.
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
Green Lake and its tributaries: Water quality and hydrology

Green Lake and its tributaries: Water quality and hydrology

Green Lake is the deepest natural inland lake in Wisconsin. Through time its water quality has degraded, with relatively high phosphorus concentrations and zones of hypoxia. This project is quantifying the water quality of the lake and its tributaries, and it will provide information to help guide efforts to improve the lake.
Learn More
Map showing locations of the study area and the monitoring sites on Jackson Creek

Delavan Lake: Hydrology, water quality, and biology

Eutrophication of Delavan Lake accelerated from the 1940s to 1980s, resulting in a hypereutrophic lake with severe blue-green algae blooms. Extensive rehabilitation efforts were implemented to improve water quality. The USGS measured nutrients, suspended sediment, water quality, and plankton populations to quantify the effectiveness of rehabilitation efforts and guide future management decisions.
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
Delavan Lake: Hydrology, water quality, and biology

Delavan Lake: Hydrology, water quality, and biology

Eutrophication of Delavan Lake accelerated from the 1940s to 1980s, resulting in a hypereutrophic lake with severe blue-green algae blooms. Extensive rehabilitation efforts were implemented to improve water quality. The USGS measured nutrients, suspended sediment, water quality, and plankton populations to quantify the effectiveness of rehabilitation efforts and guide future management decisions.
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Photograph of Geneva Lake from the Geneva Lakes Area Chamber of Commerce

Geneva Lake: Water quality, hydrology, and biology

To reduce the impact of increasing urban development and recreational use on Geneva Lake, efforts are being made to decrease point- and nonpoint-source pollution inputs. To document Geneva Lake's water quality, the USGS collected water-quality data and developed empirical eutrophication models to demonstrate that reductions in phosphorus loading were related to water-quality improvements.
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
Geneva Lake: Water quality, hydrology, and biology

Geneva Lake: Water quality, hydrology, and biology

To reduce the impact of increasing urban development and recreational use on Geneva Lake, efforts are being made to decrease point- and nonpoint-source pollution inputs. To document Geneva Lake's water quality, the USGS collected water-quality data and developed empirical eutrophication models to demonstrate that reductions in phosphorus loading were related to water-quality improvements.
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Photograph of a tributary to the Fox River

Water quality of the lower Fox River tributaries and Duck Creek watersheds

The USGS is evaluating the effectiveness of non-point pollution control measures in five watersheds in the Lower Fox River and Duck Creek watersheds and comparing daily phosphorus and suspended solids loads for each watershed.
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
Water quality of the lower Fox River tributaries and Duck Creek watersheds

Water quality of the lower Fox River tributaries and Duck Creek watersheds

The USGS is evaluating the effectiveness of non-point pollution control measures in five watersheds in the Lower Fox River and Duck Creek watersheds and comparing daily phosphorus and suspended solids loads for each watershed.
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Figure showing nutrient yields delivered from throughout the MARB to the Gulf of Mexico

SPARROW nutrient modeling: Mississippi/Atchafalaya River Basin (MARB)

SPARROW models for the Mississippi/Atchafalaya River Basin(MARB) predict long-term average loads, concentrations, yields, and source contributions of water, nitrogen, phosphorus, and suspended sediment to the Gulf of Mexico.
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
SPARROW nutrient modeling: Mississippi/Atchafalaya River Basin (MARB)

SPARROW nutrient modeling: Mississippi/Atchafalaya River Basin (MARB)

SPARROW models for the Mississippi/Atchafalaya River Basin(MARB) predict long-term average loads, concentrations, yields, and source contributions of water, nitrogen, phosphorus, and suspended sediment to the Gulf of Mexico.
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Figure showing the Mid-Continental SPARROW model study area, with monitoring sites identified.

SPARROW nutrient modeling: Binational (US/Canada) models

SPARROW phosphorus and nitrogen models are being developed for the entire Great Lakes Basin and the Upper Midwest part of the U.S., and the Red and Assiniboine River Basin, as part of a Binational project between the USGS and the International Joint Commission (IJC) and National Research Council (NRC) of Canada.
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
SPARROW nutrient modeling: Binational (US/Canada) models

SPARROW nutrient modeling: Binational (US/Canada) models

SPARROW phosphorus and nitrogen models are being developed for the entire Great Lakes Basin and the Upper Midwest part of the U.S., and the Red and Assiniboine River Basin, as part of a Binational project between the USGS and the International Joint Commission (IJC) and National Research Council (NRC) of Canada.
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Image showing a schematic of the SPARROW model components

SPARROW modeling: Estimating nutrient, sediment, and dissolved solids transport

SPARROW (SPAtially Referenced Regression On Watershed attributes) models estimate the amount of a contaminant transported from inland watersheds to larger water bodies by linking monitoring data with information on watershed characteristics and contaminant sources. Interactive, online SPARROW mapping tools allow for easy access to explore relations between human activities, natural processes, and...
By
Water Resources Mission Area, National Water Quality Program, Upper Midwest Water Science Center, Gulf of America
SPARROW modeling: Estimating nutrient, sediment, and dissolved solids transport

SPARROW modeling: Estimating nutrient, sediment, and dissolved solids transport

SPARROW (SPAtially Referenced Regression On Watershed attributes) models estimate the amount of a contaminant transported from inland watersheds to larger water bodies by linking monitoring data with information on watershed characteristics and contaminant sources. Interactive, online SPARROW mapping tools allow for easy access to explore relations between human activities, natural processes, and...
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Winnebago pool lakes: Hydrology, water quality, and response to simulated changes in phosphorus loading

The Winnebago Pool Lakes are shallow, productive drainage lakes that have accumulated nutrients from its mixed agricultural/forest watershed and from the Fox River. High phosphorus concentrations often result in severe blue-green algae blooms that can produce harmful toxins. The USGS is evaluating the water quality and phosphorus budget of each lake and modeling eutrophication responses.
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
Winnebago pool lakes: Hydrology, water quality, and response to simulated changes in phosphorus loading

Winnebago pool lakes: Hydrology, water quality, and response to simulated changes in phosphorus loading

The Winnebago Pool Lakes are shallow, productive drainage lakes that have accumulated nutrients from its mixed agricultural/forest watershed and from the Fox River. High phosphorus concentrations often result in severe blue-green algae blooms that can produce harmful toxins. The USGS is evaluating the water quality and phosphorus budget of each lake and modeling eutrophication responses.
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Photo of aerators installed at Little St. Germain Lake, Wis., to prevent winter anoxia

Little St. Germain Lake: Phosphorus loading, winter anoxia, and stage regulation

Little St. Germain Lake, Wis., consists of four main basins separated by narrows. This study monitored lake water quality, identified phosphorus sources, determined spatial and temporal distribution of oxygen, evaluated the effectiveness of winter aeration systems, and modeled groundwater/lake-water interactions.
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
Little St. Germain Lake: Phosphorus loading, winter anoxia, and stage regulation

Little St. Germain Lake: Phosphorus loading, winter anoxia, and stage regulation

Little St. Germain Lake, Wis., consists of four main basins separated by narrows. This study monitored lake water quality, identified phosphorus sources, determined spatial and temporal distribution of oxygen, evaluated the effectiveness of winter aeration systems, and modeled groundwater/lake-water interactions.
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Anvil Lake: Response of lake water quality to changes in nutrient loading, with special emphasis on the effects of changes in water level

Anvil Lake is a relatively shallow, high-quality lake whose water level has dropped dramatically in recent years, adversely affecting the recreational and aesthetic values of the lake. The USGS is developing detailed water and phosphorus budgets, determining groundwater contributions, modeling likely responses to changes in phosphorus loading, and assessing the effect of climate on water quality.
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
Anvil Lake: Response of lake water quality to changes in nutrient loading, with special emphasis on the effects of changes in water level

Anvil Lake: Response of lake water quality to changes in nutrient loading, with special emphasis on the effects of changes in water level

Anvil Lake is a relatively shallow, high-quality lake whose water level has dropped dramatically in recent years, adversely affecting the recreational and aesthetic values of the lake. The USGS is developing detailed water and phosphorus budgets, determining groundwater contributions, modeling likely responses to changes in phosphorus loading, and assessing the effect of climate on water quality.
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Filter Total Items: 15

Phosphorus, nitrogen, chloride, and suspended-sediment load estimates for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative tributary monitoring network: Water years 2011–2023 Phosphorus, nitrogen, chloride, and suspended-sediment load estimates for the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative tributary monitoring network: Water years 2011–2023

Phosphorus, nitrogen, chloride, and suspended-sediment loads, in 24 U.S. tributaries of the Great Lakes, were estimated using U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) data from the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) monitoring program for the period Oct 2010 through Sept 2023 (USGS water years 2011-23). Specific water-quality constituents include total phosphorus, orthophosphate, particulate...
By
Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Model and Data Resources Supporting Water-Quality Modeling of Hydrologic Systems Model and Data Resources Supporting Water-Quality Modeling of Hydrologic Systems

This dataset provides detailed information on availability of model resources (including models and datasets) that support the modeling of six key water-quality constituents (or constituent categories) across the hydrologic system. In addition, resources associated with nine “cross-cutting” topics for modeling water quality are included, with “cross-cutting” defined herein as having...
By
New England Water Science Center

Concentrations and loads of phosphorus and suspended solids in the Fox River, Northeastern Wisconsin, 1989–2021 Concentrations and loads of phosphorus and suspended solids in the Fox River, Northeastern Wisconsin, 1989–2021

Concentrations and loads of total phosphorus, dissolved phosphorus, and suspended solids were estimated for three sites on the Lower Fox River for October 1988 through September 2021. The sites are the Fox River at Neenah-Menasha (040844105), Fox River at DePere (04085059), and Fox River at the Mouth (040851385). Data analysis was conducted with the Weighted Regressions on Time...
By
Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Phosphorus, nitrogen, and suspended-sediment loads measured at the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative tributary monitoring network: Water years 2011–2020 Phosphorus, nitrogen, and suspended-sediment loads measured at the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative tributary monitoring network: Water years 2011–2020

Phosphorus, nitrogen, and suspended-sediment loads, in 24 U.S. tributaries of the Great Lakes, were calculated using U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) data from the Great Lakes Restoration Initiative (GLRI) monitoring program for the period Oct 2010 through Sept 2020 (USGS water years 2011–2020). Total phosphorus, orthophosphate, particulate phosphorus, total nitrogen, nitrate plus nitrite...
By
Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Total phosphorus loads estimated from tributaries and direct drainages to the Great Lakes during 2012-2018 using the model load ratio approach and the unit area load approach Total phosphorus loads estimated from tributaries and direct drainages to the Great Lakes during 2012-2018 using the model load ratio approach and the unit area load approach

In this data release, we provide the data used to compute total annual phosphorus loads from tributaries and direct drainages to the Great Lakes during 2012-18 using the model load ratio approach and the unit area load approach and the resulting annual loads for 2012–18. This data release consists of: (1) measured loads at 24 sites, computed using the surrogate regression approach...
By
Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Regression and load estimates for the tributary nutrient and sediment monitoring program on the Great Lakes, 2011-2013 Regression and load estimates for the tributary nutrient and sediment monitoring program on the Great Lakes, 2011-2013

Nutrient and sediment regression information (diagnostics and coefficients) and estimated load data from 30 tributaries to the Great Lakes, beginning of the program (water year 2011) to water year 2013.
By
Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Eutrophication models to simulate changes in the water quality of Green Lake, Wisconsin in response to changes in phosphorus loading, with supporting water-quality data for the lake, its tributaries, and atmospheric deposition Eutrophication models to simulate changes in the water quality of Green Lake, Wisconsin in response to changes in phosphorus loading, with supporting water-quality data for the lake, its tributaries, and atmospheric deposition

In this data release, we provide data to describe the water quality in Green Lake, Wisconsin, from 1905 to 2020, primarily the constituents for which it is impaired, including near-surface total phosphorus concentrations and metalimnetic dissolved oxygen concentrations, and quantify the water and phosphorus inputs to the lake. We also provide inputs to and outputs from the General Lake...
By
Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Nutrient Load Data used to Quantify Regional Effects of Agricultural Best Management Practices: An application of the 2012 SPARROW models for the Midwest, Northeast, and Southeast United States Nutrient Load Data used to Quantify Regional Effects of Agricultural Best Management Practices: An application of the 2012 SPARROW models for the Midwest, Northeast, and Southeast United States

Nitrogen and phosphorus losses from agricultural areas have impacted the water quality of downstream rivers, lakes, and oceans. As a result, investment in the adoption of agricultural best management practices (BMPs) has grown but assessments of their effectiveness at large spatial scales have been sparse. This study applies regional Spatially Referenced Regression On Watershed...
By
Lower Mississippi-Gulf Water Science Center

Long-term mean annual total nitrogen and total phosphorus loads estimated using Fluxmaster 5-parameter models and detrended to 2012, Midwest Region of the United States, 1999-2014 Long-term mean annual total nitrogen and total phosphorus loads estimated using Fluxmaster 5-parameter models and detrended to 2012, Midwest Region of the United States, 1999-2014

This USGS data release contains long-term mean annual total nitrogen and total phosphorus load estimates, and the model coefficients used to obtain the load estimates, for streams in the Midwest Region of the United States. The loads were estimated using the Fluxmaster program (Schwarz and others, 2006, https://pubs.usgs.gov/tm/2006/tm6b3) with a 5-parameter model and detrending to 2012...
By
Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

SPARROW model inputs and simulated streamflow, nutrient and suspended-sediment loads in streams of the Midwestern United States, 2012 Base Year SPARROW model inputs and simulated streamflow, nutrient and suspended-sediment loads in streams of the Midwestern United States, 2012 Base Year

The U.S. Geological Survey's (USGS) SPAtially Referenced Regression On Watershed attributes (SPARROW) model was used to aid in the interpretation of monitoring data and simulate streamflow and water-quality conditions in streams across the Midwest Region of the United States. SPARROW is a hybrid empirical/process-based mass balance model that can be used to estimate the major sources and...
By
Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

SPARROW model simulated nutrient loads in streams of the Midcontinental Region of Canada and the United States, 2002 Base Year SPARROW model simulated nutrient loads in streams of the Midcontinental Region of Canada and the United States, 2002 Base Year

The U.S. Geological Survey's (USGS) SPAtially Referenced Regression On Watershed attributes (SPARROW) model was developed to aid in the interpretation of monitoring data and simulate water-quality conditions in streams across the Midcontinental Region of Canada and the Unites States. SPARROW is a hybrid empirical⁄process-based mass balance model that can be used to estimate the major...
By
Upper Midwest Environmental Sciences Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Water-quality and streamflow datasets used for estimating long-term mean daily streamflow and annual loads to be considered for use in regional streamflow, nutrient and sediment SPARROW models, United States, 1999-2014 Water-quality and streamflow datasets used for estimating long-term mean daily streamflow and annual loads to be considered for use in regional streamflow, nutrient and sediment SPARROW models, United States, 1999-2014

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...
By
Water Resources Mission Area
Map of Green Lake, Wisconsin and its watershed, with sampling data
Green Lake, Wisconsin and its watershed, with sampling
Green Lake, Wisconsin and its watershed, with sampling
Map of Green Lake, Wisconsin and its watershed, with sampling data

Green Lake, Wisconsin and its watershed, with sampling

Green Lake, Wisconsin and its watershed, with sampling

Map of Green Lake, Wisconsin, and its watershed, with sampling data.

By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
Map of Green Lake, Wisconsin and its watershed, with sampling data

Green Lake, Wisconsin and its watershed, with sampling

Green Lake, Wisconsin and its watershed, with sampling

Map of Green Lake, Wisconsin, and its watershed, with sampling data.

By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
Filter Total Items: 156

Changes in phosphorus concentration and flux from 2011 to 2023 in major U.S. tributaries to the Laurentian Great Lakes Changes in phosphorus concentration and flux from 2011 to 2023 in major U.S. tributaries to the Laurentian Great Lakes

Reducing phosphorus (P) flux to the Great Lakes is critical for improving water quality and controlling eutrophication. We used 13 water years (2011–2023) of U.S. Geological Survey data from 24 major U.S. tributaries (representing 47% of the U.S. Great Lakes watershed area) to evaluate temporal changes in orthophosphate (PO4-P) and total P (TP) using Weighted Regressions on Time...
Authors
Dustin William Kincaid, Matthew Diebel, Erin E. Bertke, Donald Bonville, G. Koltun, Dale M. Robertson, Luke Loken
By
New York Water Science Center, Ohio-Kentucky-Indiana Water Science Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

One-hundred fundamental, open questions to integrate methodological approaches in lake ice research One-hundred fundamental, open questions to integrate methodological approaches in lake ice research

The rate of technological innovation within aquatic sciences outpaces the collective ability of individual scientists within the field to make appropriate use of those technologies. The process of in situ lake sampling remains the primary choice to comprehensively understand an aquatic ecosystem at local scales; however, the impact of climate change on lakes necessitates the rapid...
Authors
Joshua Culpepper, Sapna Sharma, Grant Gunn, Madeline Magee, Michael Meyer, Eric Anderson, Christoper Arp, Sarah Cooley, Wayana Dolan, Hilary Dugan, Claude Duguay, Benjamin Jones, Georgiy Kirillin, Robert Ladwig, Matti Lepparanta, Di Long, John Magnuson, Tamlin Pavelsky, Sebastiano Piccolroaz, Dale M. Robertson, Bethel Steele, Manu Tom, Gesa Weyhenmeyer, R. Iesytn Woolway, Marguerite A. Xenopoulos, Xiao Yang
By
Water Resources Mission Area, Geosciences and Environmental Change Science Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Gaps in water quality modeling of hydrologic systems Gaps in water quality modeling of hydrologic systems

This review assesses gaps in water quality modeling, emphasizing opportunities to improve next-generation models that are essential for managing water quality and are integral to meeting goals of scientific and management agencies. In particular, this paper identifies gaps in water quality modeling capabilities that, if addressed, could support assessments, projections, and evaluations...
Authors
Lisa Lucas, Craig J. Brown, Dale M. Robertson, Nancy Baker, Zachary Johnson, Christopher Green, Jong Cho, Melinda L. Erickson, Allen Gellis, Jeramy Jasmann, Noah Knowles, Andreas Prein, Paul Stackelberg
By
Water Resources Mission Area

Seasonally varying contributions of contemporaneous and lagged sources of instream total nitrogen and phosphorus load across the Illinois River basin Seasonally varying contributions of contemporaneous and lagged sources of instream total nitrogen and phosphorus load across the Illinois River basin

Quantifying nutrient sources in streams, their temporal and spatial variability, and drivers of that variability can support effective water resources management. Yet a lack of data and modeling capabilities has previously prevented comprehensive quantification across both space and time. Here a dynamic SPARROW (Spatially Referenced Regressions on Watershed attributes) model that...
Authors
Noah Schmadel, Olivia Miller, Scott Ator, Matthew P. Miller, Gregory Schwarz, Dale M. Robertson, Andrew Sekellick, Kenneth Skinner, David A. Saad
By
Water Resources Mission Area, Idaho Water Science Center, Maryland-Delaware-D.C. Water Science Center, Utah Water Science Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

U.S. Geological Survey Mississippi River Science Forum—Summary of data and science needs and next steps U.S. Geological Survey Mississippi River Science Forum—Summary of data and science needs and next steps

The U.S. Geological Survey hosted a Mississippi River Science Forum with Federal agencies; Tribal, State, and local governments located in States that border the Mississippi River; academia; and other interested stakeholders. The purpose of the forum was to share current (2023) science; identify data gaps and areas of concern; and to prioritize next steps needed to advance the goals of...
Authors
John Nelson, Richard Rebich, Kathi Jankowski, Thea Edwards, James Larson, Dale M. Robertson, Lori Sprague, Sarah Stackpoole, Katherine Summers, Peter Cinotto, Paul Rydlund, Christopher Churchill, Wesley Daniel, Owen McKenna, Beth Middleton, Jacoby Carter, Stephen Hartley, Jeffrey Frey, Kelly Warner
By
Ecosystems Land Change Science Program

Connecting tributary mercury loads to nearshore and offshore sediments in Lake Superior Connecting tributary mercury loads to nearshore and offshore sediments in Lake Superior

Lake Superior has a vast and largely undeveloped watershed in comparison to the other Great Lakes, which makes it challenging to study mercury (Hg) sources and cycling. To examine Hg inputs to Lake Superior, we conducted an expansive binational assessment in 40 watersheds from a diverse range of landcover types. We further paired tributary Hg data to sediment source portfolios in the...
Authors
Sarah E. Janssen, Michael T. Tate, Eric Dantoin, Christopher Filstrup, Euan D Reavie, Robert Stewart, Chris Robinson, Craig Allan, Dale M. Robertson, David Krabbenhoft
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center, M3 Research Laboratory

Prioritizing river basins for nutrient studies Prioritizing river basins for nutrient studies

Increases in fluxes of nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) in the environment have led to negative impacts affecting drinking water, eutrophication, harmful algal blooms, climate change, and biodiversity loss. Because of the importance, scale, and complexity of these issues, it may be useful to consider methods for prioritizing nutrient research in representative drainage basins within a...
Authors
Anthony Tesoriero, Dale M. Robertson, Christopher Green, J.K. Bohlke, Judson Harvey, Sharon Qi
By
Water Resources Mission Area, Oregon Water Science Center, Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Evaluating the suitability of large-scale datasets to estimate nitrogen loads and yields across different spatial scales Evaluating the suitability of large-scale datasets to estimate nitrogen loads and yields across different spatial scales

Decision makers are often confronted with inadequate information to predict nutrient loads and yields in freshwater ecosystems at large spatial scales. We evaluate the potential of using data mapped at large spatial scales (regional to global) and often coarse resolution to predict nitrogen yields at varying smaller scales (e.g., at the catchment and stream reach level). We applied the...
Authors
Andres Suarez-Castro, Dale M. Robertson, Bernhard Lehner, Marcelo de Souza, Michael Kittridge, David A. Saad, Simon Linke, Rich McDowell, Mohammad Ranjbar, Olivier Ausseil, David Hamilton
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Changes in phosphorus and suspended solids loading in the Fox River, northeastern Wisconsin, 1989–2021 Changes in phosphorus and suspended solids loading in the Fox River, northeastern Wisconsin, 1989–2021

The entire Lower Fox River and inner bay of Green Bay, in northeastern Wisconsin, have been listed as impaired by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) for low dissolved oxygen and degraded habitat, with total phosphorus (TP) and total suspended solids (TSS) concentrations listed as the likely causes of these impairments. To restore the Fox River and Green Bay, total...
Authors
Dale M. Robertson, Matthew Diebel, Sarah Bartlett, Kevin J. Fermanich
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Response in the water quality of Delavan Lake, Wisconsin, to changes in phosphorus loading—Setting new goals for loading from its drainage basin Response in the water quality of Delavan Lake, Wisconsin, to changes in phosphorus loading—Setting new goals for loading from its drainage basin

During 1989–92, an extensive rehabilitation project was completed in and around Delavan Lake, Wisconsin, to improve the lake’s water quality. However, in 2016, the lake was listed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources as impaired for excessive algal growth (high chlorophyll a concentrations), and high phosphorus input was listed as its likely cause. In addition, the recent...
Authors
Dale M. Robertson, Benjamin Siebers, Reed Fredrick
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Assessment of conservation management practices on water quality and observed trends in the Plum Creek Basin, 2010–20 Assessment of conservation management practices on water quality and observed trends in the Plum Creek Basin, 2010–20

The U.S. Geological Survey and University of Wisconsin–Green Bay collected hydrologic and water-quality data to assess the effectiveness of agricultural conservation management practice (CMP) implementation at mainstem Plum Creek and west Plum Creek in northeastern Wisconsin. These two subbasins cover 88 percent of the Plum Creek Basin (Hydrologic Unit Code 12), which is a subbasin of...
Authors
Judy Horwatich, Kevin Fermanich, Matthew Pronschinske, Dale Robertson, Sarah Kussow, Luke Loken, Paul Reneau, Jeremy Freund, Matthew Komiskey
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center

Agricultural conservation practices could help offset climate change impacts on cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms in Lake Erie Agricultural conservation practices could help offset climate change impacts on cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms in Lake Erie

Harmful algal blooms (HABs) are a recurring problem in many temperate large lake and coastal marine ecosystems, caused mainly by anthropogenic eutrophication. Implementation of agricultural conservation practices (ACPs) offers a means to reduce non-point source nutrient runoff and mitigate HABs. However, the effectiveness of ACPs in a changing climate remains uncertain. We used an...
Authors
Michael Fraker, Noel Aloysius, Jay Martin, S. Keitzer, David Dippold, Haw Yen, Jeffrey Arnold, Prasad Daggupati, Mari-Vaughn Johnson, Dale M. Robertson, Scott Sowa, Michael White, Stuart Ludsin
By
Upper Midwest Water Science Center
Homing in on sources and yields of nitrogen and phosphorus throughout the Mississippi/Atchafalaya River Basin

Homing in on sources and yields of nitrogen and phosphorus throughout the Mississippi/Atchafalaya River Basin

A new USGS study estimates total nitrogen (N) and total phosphorus (P) yields from catchments throughout the Mississippi/Atchafalaya River Basin...

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Sources of Excessive Nutrients in the Transboundary Red-Assiniboine River Basin Identified by Binational Research Team

Sources of Excessive Nutrients in the Transboundary Red-Assiniboine River Basin Identified by Binational Research Team

  

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