Potential Factors Controlling Benthic Algae in the Upper White River Basin, Colorado, 2018–21
Links
- Document: Report (6.12 MB pdf) , HTML , XML
- Related Works:
- USGS Scientific Investigations Report 2022-5112 Characterization of Streamflow and Nutrient Occurrence in the Upper White River Basin, Colorado, 1980–2020
- USGS Scientific Investigations Report 2023-5009 Investigation of Potential Factors Controlling Benthic Algae in the Upper White River Basin, Colorado, 2018–21
- Data Releases:
- USGS data release - Channel Characteristics, benthic algae, and water quality model data for selected sites in the upper White River Basin, Colorado, 2018-21
- USGS data release - USGS water data for the Nation: U.S. Geological Survey National Water Information System database
- Download citation as: RIS | Dublin Core
Abstract
Nuisance levels of benthic algae are becoming increasingly common in surface waters of the western United States and can compromise aesthetic quality, limit recreational activities, block water infrastructure, and negatively affect aquatic life. In cooperation with the White River and Douglas Creek Conservation Districts, the Colorado River Basin Salinity Control Forum, and the Colorado River Water Conservation District, the U.S. Geological Survey studied physical, chemical, and biological factors potentially controlling the occurrence of benthic algae in the upper White River Basin, Colorado, from 2018 through 2021. Multiple approaches were used to assess nutrients and physical conditions in the upper White River Basin. A linear mixed-effects model was used to evaluate the relative effect of different factors on algal biomass across water-quality sites.
The frequency and severity of algal blooms in the upper White River Basin may be affected by long-term changes in nutrient availability and streamflow, specifically changes in the timing and magnitude of high and low streamflow. The effects of large peak streamflow, including movement of the streambed, may be the dominant control on the occurrence of algal blooms through years. Large, late, and long-lasting peak streamflow may limit algal blooms during the same year and into subsequent years. Without streambed disturbance, other factors such as nutrients and water temperature may have a larger effect on algal biomass.
Suggested Citation
Gidley, R.G., Day, N.K., 2023, Potential factors controlling benthic algae in the upper White River Basin, Colorado, 2018–21: U.S. Geological Survey Fact Sheet 2023–3005, 4 p., https://doi.org/10.3133/fs20233005.
ISSN: 2327-6932 (online)
ISSN: 2327-6916 (print)
Study Area
Table of Contents
- Introduction
- Benthic Algae in the Upper White River Basin
- Conclusions
- References Cited
| Publication type | Report |
|---|---|
| Publication Subtype | USGS Numbered Series |
| Title | Potential factors controlling benthic algae in the upper White River Basin, Colorado, 2018–21 |
| Series title | Fact Sheet |
| Series number | 2023-3005 |
| DOI | 10.3133/fs20233005 |
| Year Published | 2023 |
| Language | English |
| Publisher | U.S. Geological Survey |
| Publisher location | Reston, VA |
| Contributing office(s) | Colorado Water Science Center, Southwest Biological Science Center |
| Description | Report: 4 p.; Data Release: 3 |
| Country | United States |
| State | Colorado |
| Other Geospatial | Upper White River Basin |
| Online Only (Y/N) | N |
| Google Analytic Metrics | Metrics page |