Nutrient Dynamics in the Lower Cape Fear River and Estuary: Assessing the Impact of Agricultural Inputs and Storm Events on Water Quality

The Lower Cape Fear River and Estuary is located in coastal North Carolina. This area is influenced by both natural processes and human activities, making it an important site for studying nutrient patterns and water quality. This study examines inorganic and organic nutrient concentrations in the Lower Cape Fear River and Estuary in coastal North Carolina. Water samples were collected monthly from eight main sites, with additional seasonal sampling at other locations to capture nutrient variations. Samples were collected from upstream freshwater areas to downstream coastal waters, between October 2020 and September 2024. Additional samples were taken after major storm events to assess how storms influence nutrient input and transport. The primary objective is to identify sources of nutrients to the study area and their potential impacts on water quality as they move from upstream of the river out into the Atlantic Ocean. We measured dissolved inorganic and organic nitrogen (DIN, DON) and phosphorus (DIP, DOP). Preliminary data indicates that upstream sites, particularly those near agricultural areas exhibit elevated concentrations of nutrients, while sites downstream showed lower levels of nutrients. The results are likely due to the influence of the coastal ocean as it mixes with the nutrient-rich water coming downstream to form brackish water in the estuary. This study helps us understand how nutrients behave in our river and estuary system while providing insight into the broader impact on our coastal waters.

Presentation Preference: Poster

Primary Presenter: Emily McGee, University of North Carolina Wilmington (eam1536@uncw.edu)

Authors:

Emily McGee, University of North Carolina Wilmington  (eam1536@uncw.edu)

Mia Carulli, University of North Carolina Wilmington  (mcc2768@uncw.edu)

Ai Ning Loh, University of North Carolina Wilmington  (lohan@uncw.edu)