Nutrient discharge from Walker Branch Watershed. [N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Na, S]

Conference · Sat Jan 01 04:00:00 EST 1977

OSTI ID:5115901

Henderson, G S; Hunley, A; Selvidge, W

Streamflow discharge of nutrient elements (N, P, K, Ca, Mg, Na and S) has been studied on Walker Branch Watershed for up to six years. Annual discharges of N, P and S are less than atmospheric inputs whereas Ca, Mg, K and Na discharges exceed atmospheric inputs. Seasonal nutrient discharges are dependent on water yield. Concentration behavior of nutrients during storms has been used to identify processes within the watershed influencing nutrient release from the catchment. During storms, three patterns of concentration behavior are observed: dilution of concentration during stormflow (Ca and Mg); concentration increases during storms (N and S); and little change in concentration (dissolved K, P, Na) except for some concentration increase during autumn storms. These different patterns are caused by processes such as bedrock weathering, canopy and litter leaching, and expansion of the stream channel into variable source areas. Stormflow discharge is especially important in the transport of nitrogen and other elements primarily incorporated in organic matter.

• Research Organization: Oak Ridge National Lab., Tenn. (USA)
• DOE Contract Number: W-7405-ENG-26
• OSTI ID: 5115901
• Report Number(s): CONF-770209-7
• Country of Publication: United States
• Language: English

Related Subjects

520100* -- Environment
Aquatic-- Basic Studies-- (-1989)
54 ENVIRONMENTAL SCIENCES
DISASTERS
DISSOLUTION
ECOLOGICAL CONCENTRATION
LEACHING
NUTRIENTS
SEASONAL VARIATIONS
SEPARATION PROCESSES
STORMS
VARIATIONS
WATERSHEDS
WEATHERING