Objectives 1) describe characteristics of nitrogen, phosphorus and carbon flux in rivermouths and nearshore zones in the great lakes, specifically areas associated with harmful algal blooms (western…

Objectives 1) describe characteristics of nitrogen, phosphorus and carbon flux in rivermouths and nearshore zones in the great lakes, specifically areas associated with harmful algal blooms (western lake erie/maumee BAY and green BAY, lake michigan).2) characterize dissolved organic carbon dynamics in a large freshwater rivermouthexpected project RESULTS1. Phase 8 (2021-april 2023): interpretation of results. In collaboration with researchers at the U.S. Geological survey, will lead the development of two technical manuscripts in journal format.2. Phase 8 (april 2022-april 2023): generating DOM data. Using samples provided by USGS researchers, the xenopoulos-frost lab will measure DOM concentration and optical characteristics to estimate changes in DOM properties driven by sediment and water column processing. Samples will be collected as part of experiments being performed on intact sediment cores and water column inclubation experiments in the maumee rivermouth and maumee BAY. Intact sediment core experiments will be conducted 3 times (may, july, august) at 7-12 sites. Water column incubation experiments will be conducted at 3 times at 3 sites. Methods will follow methods used in previously published studies from the FOX rivermouth (green BAY, WI; larson ET AL. 2020, larson ET AL. 2019, pearce ET AL. 2021).