Decoding Spatial Nutrient Dynamics in Reservoirs: The Role of Climate and Landscape Features

Reservoirs are ubiquitous and form a critical part of the aquatic continuum. These constructed ecosystems provide essential ecosystem services and are recognized as hotspots for nutrient cycling. However, reservoirs are undergoing significant changes due to shifts in hydro-climatic regimes and alterations in land use, making it crucial to understand the spatial and seasonal variability in their nutrient dynamics. Despite their importance, reservoirs are understudied compared to riverine and natural lake ecosystems, with routine monitoring efforts often concentrated near dam sites and during summer months. In this study, I leverage spatially resolved water quality data from reservoirs to quantify the spatial heterogeneity in nutrient cycling. I also examine how hydro-climatic conditions and landscape characteristics, such as mean depth, the watershed-to-reservoir area ratio, and human disturbances, influence nutrient dynamics within reservoirs. Finally, I discuss current research needs and highlight directions for future studies to improve our understanding of reservoir ecosystems. This work underscores the importance of expanding monitoring efforts across various seasons and spatial scales to better manage and preserve these vital aquatic systems.

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Primary Presenter: Ruchi Bhattacharya, Cleveland State University (ruchi.bhattacharya@gmail.com)

Authors:

Ruchi Bhattacharya, Cleveland State University, Cleveland, Ohio  (r.bhattacharya14@csuohio.edu)