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A critical review of operational strategies for the management of harmful algal blooms (HABs) in inland reservoirs

Journal Article · · Journal of Environmental Management
 [1];  [2]
  1. Texas A&M University, College Station, TX (United States)
  2. US Army Engineer Research and Development Center, Vicksburg, MS (United States)
Occurrences of freshwater harmful algal blooms (HABs) are increasing on a global scale, largely in part due to increased nutrient input and changing climate patterns. While reservoir management strategies that can influence phytoplankton are known, there is no published guideline or protocol for the management of harmful algal blooms. There is a need to establish what factors are the predominant drivers of blooms, and how common reservoir management strategies specifically influence each factor. The following literature review seeks to establish the benefits and drawbacks of operational management strategies that currently exist. The main focus is altering hydrodynamic conditions (hypolimnetic withdrawals, surface flushing, pulsed inflow, artificial mixing), in order to induce environmental changes within the reservoir itself. Since excess nutrients are one of the biggest contributors to worsening bloom conditions, internal nutrient dynamics and reduction are also discussed. Additionally, we review the predominant seasonal factors (stratification, light, temperature, and wind) that affect likelihood of bloom occurrence and duration. In conclusion, the ultimate objective of this review is to increase understanding of the relationships between HAB drivers and reservoir operations in order to inform the development of data, modeling, and management strategies for the prevention and mitigation of blooms.
Research Organization:
Oak Ridge Institute for Science and Education (ORISE), Oak Ridge, TN (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE Office of Science (SC)
Grant/Contract Number:
SC0014664
OSTI ID:
2425563
Journal Information:
Journal of Environmental Management, Journal Name: Journal of Environmental Management Vol. 330; ISSN 0301-4797
Publisher:
ElsevierCopyright Statement
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

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Figures / Tables (3)