Modeling temporal and spatial variations of biogeochemical processes in a large subtropical lake: Assessing alternative solutions to algal blooms in Lake Okeechobee, Florida

• DOI: 10.1016/j.ejrh.2023.101441
• Publication Date: 2023-06-16T02:12:46Z
• Authors: Thanh Duc Dang; Mauricio E. Arias; Osama Tarabih; Edward J. Phlips; Sarina J. Ergas; Mark C. Rains; Qiong Zhang
• Keywords: Lake ecosystem; Biogeochemical Cycle; Nutrient pollution

Algal blooms (ABs), often exacerbated by excess nutrients from anthropogenic activities, can pose serious risks to public health, fisheries, and ecosystem structure functions. Lake Okeechobee is located in southcentral Florida (USA), with a surface area of 1730 km2, it the largest subtropical lake United States. This shallow, nutrient-rich, subject frequent intense cyanobacteria, some which are toxic. In this study, three-dimensional (3D) model was developed, coupling long-term monitoring data complex physical, chemical, ecological processes at fine spatial (15–1000 m horizontal mesh size) temporal (1 h) resolution. We used understand influence environmental factors nutrient management on ABs dynamics Okeechobee. The showed that mostly developed shallow nearshore regions near canal outlets, then spread over as result prevailing winds currents. Hypothetical scenario modeling reducing both nitrogen phosphorus inputs 50%–75% would be more effective than targeting single nutrient. could tool assess effectiveness different strategies its watershed, while framework adopted other large water bodies facing similar issues.