Assessment of Phosphorus Sources to Black Lake, New York

Abstract

Studies are undertaken to assess the nature and extent of phosphorus (P) sources affecting eutrophic Black Lake, located in northern New York State. The analysis requires both field and laboratory activities. The results indicate that the shallow, well‐mixed body of water has a greater than average potential for resuspension of bottom sediments and associated internal P loading. P levels in the lake often exceed those of fluvial sources, indicating the significance of direct diffuse loading, including sediment P release. Experimental batch studies show that resuspension of sediments in aerobic systems result in P release to water of the same order of magnitude as that caused by anaerobic incubation. The extent of P release from internal sources exceeds the inputs from all other sources over relatively short periods during the growing season.