pdf WQ3 Phosphorus and Phytoplankton Dynamics in the Les Cheneaux Islands

Phosphorus and Phytoplankton Dynamics in the Les Cheneaux Islands during a Rapid Rise in Lake Huron Water Level

Authors: R.A. Smith

Author Affiliation: LCWC

Journal: LCWC Report; April 2016

Abstract: The LCWC studies nutrients in the water, primarily phosphorus, and the density of free-floating algae, phytoplankton, to get an idea of what the season’s weed growth might be like. Rooted aquatic weeds like Eurasian watermilfoil get most of their nutrients from the bottom sediments and algae get their nutrient directly from the water.

From 2013 to the end of 2015 we experienced a 37 inch rise in lake levels. An unprecedented lake rise for a two year period, that resulted in a 30% dilution rate. What effect does that amount of dilution have on the weed growth, phytoplankton growth and availability of nutrients? That is what this paper addresses.