Evaluation of Factors Contributing to Water Quality Degradation in an Urbanizing Estuary (Oso Bay, Texas)

Summary

This project will address a series of achievable objectives that will enhance understanding of eutrophication dynamics in Oso Bay. These include: 1) quantification of the spatial-temporal distribution of nutrients and organic matter, 2) development of nutrient and organic matter budgets (i.e., inputs-outputs), 3) quantification of important indicators of eutrophication, and 4) determination of the influence of various land uses on eutrophication in Oso Bay. To accomplish these objectives, multi-scale approaches using advanced environmental observation and analytical technologies will be employed to develop indices for environmental stresses and to establish links between these indices and key environmental changes affecting the system. Project success will be measured through development of decision support products that will be transferred to resource managers, and through efforts to educate the public on the importance of pollution management and land use best practices in the Oso Bay watershed.