Assessment of Water Quality in Corps of Engineers Reservoirs

Abstract

ABSTRACT Concern over freshwater quality and emphasis on developing improved methods for managing existing water resource projects led the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers to initiate several water research programs. Compiling and analyzing a Corps-wide water quality database for reservoirs and tailwaters was one such effort: These data are being supplemented with subjective information about enhancement needs solicited from field offices. The survey included more than 750 reservoirs, locks, and dams, and dry dams. Most frequently cited during the survey was the need to improve tailwater conditions – particularly low dissolved oxygen levels, temperature extremes, and the presence of reduced metals – reduce nutrient concentrations, and ameliorate conditions associated with the eutrophication process. A preliminary investigation indicated southeastern reservoirs exhibited (1) lower total nitrogen concentrations than the national average; (2) significant longitudinal gradients in water quality; and (3) turbidity...