ORCID ID

0009-0000-0688-8918

Date Awarded

Spring 2024

Document Type

Capstone Project

Degree Name

Master of Arts (M.A.)

Department

Virginia Institute of Marine Science

Advisor

Nicole Millette and Tish Robertson

Abstract

This report explores the integration of tidal flooding impacts into nutrient management frameworks for the Chesapeake Bay, a potentially large gap in current strategies. Coastal communities in the Chesapeake Bay, face an increasing threat from tidal flooding—also known as sunny-day flooding—which occurs without rainfall. In 2023, Norfolk, Virginia experienced 10 days of tidal flooding, but forecasts indicate that by 2075 the area could be experiencing tidal flooding every day. Recent research highlights that even a single tidal flooding event can introduce substantial nutrient loads into the Bay, sometimes exceeding the annual nutrient allocations. This significant increase in both the frequency and intensity of tidal flooding underscores the urgency of reevaluating its role in nutrient inputs across the Bay. Historically, traditional water quality management has not considered tidal flooding a significant contributor to nutrient loads. As a result, nutrient load allocations, water quality monitoring, and the design of best management practices (BMPs) currently do not account for these events, likely leading to an underestimation of nutrient inputs. This omission necessitates a thorough rethinking of our current approaches to nutrient management in the face of changing environmental conditions. An overview of recommendations outlined in this report are as follows:

  • Model Integration: Update the Chesapeake Bay Program’s water quality models to incorporate tidal flooding considerations, improving the accuracy of nutrient load predictions and management responses.

  • Enhanced Data Collection: Expand empirical data collection on tidal flooding across different watershed areas to refine model inputs and understand the variable impacts of land use on nutrient contributions. Leverage community science initiatives and stakeholders to enhance data collection.

  • Best Management Practices (BMPs): Review and adapt BMPs to address the unique challenges posed by tidal flooding, particularly in urban areas where nutrient loads during flooding can be substantial.

This report aims to serve as a foundation for policymakers, researchers, and coastal managers to reconsider and enhance nutrient management strategies by acknowledging the significant role of tidal flooding. It serves as a call to action to integrate these considerations into broader water quality management practices to better protect the Chesapeake Bay.

DOI

https://doi.org/10.25773/dt6d-1y68

Rights

© The Author

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