Chapter 18 Summary
This chapter begins by discussing something we have talked about extensively in class,
trophic states. More specifically, how trophic states are defined on different metrics. The
most classification work has been done on lakes, other freshwater body classification
systems are limited. Lake models are generally based on clarity, phytoplankton
biomass, and/ or nutrient concentrations. This can be in correlation with reference
conditions of a specific place, or how one place compares to other water bodies in
similar conditions. Ground water classification depends on the influx of organic carbon
and O2 because there is no light for algal growth. Next, methods of remediation, cause,
and the importance of algal bloom controls follow. We should care about water quality
for our health, and (more importantly to politicians) to our pockets as algal blooms can
poison drinking water and lower real estate value (and real estate tax revenue).
Although most trophic level changes happen because of human influence, there are
some natural causes like volcanic eruptions or deforestation from glaciers. These would
be examples of nonpoint or point source external loading. What interested me more was
internal loading and the relation of the sediment to the water column. I liked how the
Lake Trummen example explored this and some successful remediation solutions. The
most effective way of reducing pollution is altering point sources to be less or
nonharmful. For example, banning phosphate in laundry detergent or diverting sewage
waste without three levels of treatment from lakes/streams are proven to be very
effective. Another effective solution (if carefully managed) is riparian buffers and
constructed wetlands between streams and sources of pollution. (I picture a cattle field.)
This chapter begins by discussing something we have talked about extensively in class,
trophic states. More specifically, how trophic states are defined on different metrics. The
most classification work has been done on lakes, other freshwater body classification
systems are limited. Lake models are generally based on clarity, phytoplankton
biomass, and/ or nutrient concentrations. This can be in correlation with reference
conditions of a specific place, or how one place compares to other water bodies in
similar conditions. Ground water classification depends on the influx of organic carbon
and O2 because there is no light for algal growth. Next, methods of remediation, cause,
and the importance of algal bloom controls follow. We should care about water quality
for our health, and (more importantly to politicians) to our pockets as algal blooms can
poison drinking water and lower real estate value (and real estate tax revenue).
Although most trophic level changes happen because of human influence, there are
some natural causes like volcanic eruptions or deforestation from glaciers. These would
be examples of nonpoint or point source external loading. What interested me more was
internal loading and the relation of the sediment to the water column. I liked how the
Lake Trummen example explored this and some successful remediation solutions. The
most effective way of reducing pollution is altering point sources to be less or
nonharmful. For example, banning phosphate in laundry detergent or diverting sewage
waste without three levels of treatment from lakes/streams are proven to be very
effective. Another effective solution (if carefully managed) is riparian buffers and
constructed wetlands between streams and sources of pollution. (I picture a cattle field.)
