Long-Term Dynamic Modeling Approach to Quantifying Attached Algal Growth and Associated Impacts on Dissolved Oxygen in the Lower Truckee River, Nevada

Abstract

Nutrient loads enter the lower Truckee River of western Nevada, affecting the growth of attached algae (periphyton) which causes depressed nighttime dissolved oxygen (DO) levels. The lower Truckee River is home to the endangered cui-ui and threatened Lahontan cut-throat trout, with DO standards being established to in part protect these species. Hydrodynamics, nutrient concentrations, periphyton biomass, and DO data spanning August 2000–December 2001 were used to calibrate and verify a modified version of the Water Quality Analysis Simulation Program Version 5 (WASP5). Under typical loading conditions the periphyton community is nitrogen limited, however nitrogen loading from an upstream wastewater treatment facility increased greatly during the analysis period due to approved site construction activities (discharge permit excursion) causing the periphyton community to temporarily become phosphorus limited. The developed modeling approach, with limited calibration, was able to accurately track dynamic system responses. Removing the impact of the noted discharge permit excursion resulted in a minimum computed DO value of 4.13mg∕L, occurring at the downstream end of the modeling domain on August 8, 2001. Additionally removing the impact of all nutrient loads from area agriculture resulted in a predicted minimum DO value of 4.54mg∕L, while also shifting its location significantly upstream and its timing to April 26, 2001. Meeting all prescribed DO standards required establishing a minimum in-stream flow value of 1.81m3∕s(64.0ft3∕s) downstream of Derby Dam.