The fractionation of phosphorus in UK chalk stream surface waters and its relevance to the regulation and management of water quality

Abstract

The regulatory management of river water quality requires measurements of phosphorus that are operationally viable and meaningful in terms of insight into its effects. This need is a particular concern in globally rare and ecologically sensitive chalk streams. P data pertaining to rivers are commonly limited to soluble reactive P; other fractions of P may be of concern but are not routinely monitored. This study seeks to establish the nature and extent of non-regulated forms of P in UK chalk streams. Whilst soluble reactive P in two southern English chalk streams was found to comprise the majority of reactive P in surface waters in the majority of samples, 15–20% of the total reactive P was within other size fractions greater than 0.22 μm. The contribution of reactive P to the total P was highly variable. We conclude that, with some adjustments, the established method of regulatory monitoring of P in UK rivers is viable and valuable. In cases where the levels of reactive P are not consistent with ecological status and/or expected outcomes of programmes of measures, we recommend that targeted analysis of non-regulated forms of P is undertaken as a means to guide and focus management interventions.