Phosphorus Monitoring, Powell Marsh
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Purpose

Prior monitoring of the Powell Marsh ditch system showed that total phosphorus (TP) concentrations ranged from 30-138 ppb. Phosphorus loading from Powell Marsh into Dead Pike Lake could be a concern. Dead Pike Lake is considered a two story fishery (15 ppb TP standard). We need to determine where most of the phosphorus is coming from within the marsh system and if any of it is controllable.

Objective

We can calculate the flow (cubic feet per second) of water moving through a water control structure (WCS) if we know the dimensions (width and depth of water flowing over) using a standard weir or pressure flow equation. Phosphorus samples will be collected at or just above these control structures. From this information we should be able to determine phosphorus loads originated from selected drainage areas within the marsh for a given sampling date.

Outcome

Indication of where most of the phosphorus is coming from, and is it controllable?

Study Design

Variables: 1.Total Phosphorus 2.Clarity (Turbidity Tube) 3.Judge water appearance (Aesthetic standard). Is water orange or tea/tannin color? Include photo documentation. Frequency of Sampling: Samples will be collected twice a month (first and last Wednesday of each month) during the growing season (May, June, July and August) and once a month (first Wednesday of month) the remainder of the year. We propose monitoring for one year and then re-evaluate the need to continue. Monitoring will start as soon as possible.

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Targeted Monitoring
Competitive Project
PowellMarsh_Phosphorus
2013
Active
 
Reports and Documents
Powell Marsh water quality monitoring summary (January 30, 2015)
Powell water control structure monitoring
 
Activities & Recommendations
Monitor Water Quality or Sediment
Prior monitoring of the Powell Marsh ditch system showed that total phosphorus (TP) concentrations ranged from 30-138 ppb. Phosphorus loading from Powell Marsh into Dead Pike Lake could be a concern. Dead Pike Lake is considered a two story fishery (15 ppb TP standard). We need to determine where most of the phosphorus is coming from within the marsh system and if any of it is controllable.