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2010 flow and loads follow similar pattern to 2009

Nutrient loading related to river flow
The Susquehanna River is the single largest source of nitrogen and phosphorus discharging into Chesapeake Bay. These nutrients have a significant effect on the dissolved oxygen and harmful algal bloom forecasts. Flow from the Susquehanna River in 2010 was characterized by two large peaks, one in late January/early February and one in mid-March. Otherwise, flow from the Susquehanna River was below average (see 2009 report card overview).

 

 

Susquehanna River daily mean flow rates for January through May 2010 compared to the long-term average. Flow data supplied by USGS and are still provisional.

Provisional Susquehanna River total nitrogen loads (fall-line) for the January to April 2010 period were below average in 2010. The low nitrogen loads are unusual for this time of year. However, the loads follow the overall low flow from the Susquehanna (above). The lower-than-average nitrogen load estimates are one of the reason the early summer anoxia forecast is moderately small.

Susquehanna River total nitrogen loads (fall-line) for the period of January to April for 2010 and the long-term average for the same months. Provisional data supplied by USGS.

Provisional Potomac River total nitrogen loads (fall-line) for the January to April 2010 period were average to above average in 2010. This is consistent with the precipitation patterns of 2010, with Maryland and Virginia tributaries having higher-than-normal precipitation and the Susquehanna having lower-than-normal precipitation (see 2009 report card overview).

Potomac River total nitrogen loads (fall-line) for the period of January to April for 2010 and the long-term average for the same months. Provisional data supplied by USGS.

The forecasts do not account for unseasonable late spring or summer conditions, but represent the best available prediction based on past and present conditions.