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Evaluating Sediments As An Ecosystem Service In Western Lake Erie Through Quantification Of Nitrogen Cycling Pathways, Ashlynn Rose Boedecker

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Lake Erie experiences annual cyanobacterial harmful algal blooms (HABs), comprised mostly of non-nitrogen-fixing Microcystis, due to excess nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) inputs (eutrophication). Lake Erie's watershed is mostly agricultural, and fertilizers, manure, and drainage practices contribute to high nutrient loads. This study aimed to clarify the role of Lake Erie sediments in either exacerbating or mitigating conditions that fuel HABs via recycling and/or removal, respectively, of excess N and P. Sediment-water interface N dynamics were evaluated in low HAB (2016, dry) and high HAB (2017, wet spring and early summer) years. Intact sediment cores and overlying water were collected …