Document Type
Thesis
Abstract
This project evaluated the concentration of total dissolved nitrogen (TDN) and total dissolved phosphorus (TDP) in the porewaters of the Claybanks region in the York River to determine whether benthic regeneration could be a significant source of nutrients to the water column. Porewater was extracted from five core sites, two in the main channel and three in the secondary channel, once a month from November 2008 to January 2009. Sediment transport in this area is known to be physically dominated and highly dynamic, with maximum resuspension depths up to 110 cm in some places. This study calculated porewater nutrient contribution when resuspended to 12 cm depth as well as the maximum depth of resuspension in each subenvironment, as previously determined through 7'°Pb profiles. Previous water quality data in the Claybanks region has revealed that the overlying water column is susceptible to annual hypoxic conditions. The results of both resuspension calculations indicate that the porewaters of the York River are a significant source of nutrients and have the potential to enhance or possibly induce premature hypoxic conditions. Should resuspension occur during hypoxia vulnerability, it could potentially drive the system into anoxia.
Date Awarded
2009
Department
Geology
Advisor 1
Gregory S. Hancock
Advisor 2
Steven Kuehl
Recommended Citation
Gelinas, Morgan E., "Benthic Regeneration as a Source of Nutrients in the York River" (2009). Geology Senior Theses. William & Mary. Paper 209.
https://scholarworks.wm.edu/geologyseniors/209
