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Description

Potential Factors Controlling Benthic Algae in the Upper White River Basin, Colorado, 2018–21

Fact Sheet 2023-3005

Prepared in cooperation with White River and Douglas Creek Conservation Districts, Colorado River Salinity Control Forum, Colorado River Water Conservation District

By: Rachel G. Gidley and Natalie K. Day

This product is not available for order, it can only be downloaded from here (click on image) or within the Publications Warehouse at https://pubs.er.usgs.gov/publication/fs20233005

For additional information, contact:

Director, Colorado Water Science Center

https://www.usgs.gov/centers/colorado-water-science-center/

U.S. Geological Survey

Box 25046, Mail Stop 415

Denver, CO 80225

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.

Survey Date

2023

Print Date

2023

Height In Inches

11.000

Length In Inches

8.500

Languages

English