Date of Award
Spring 5-6-2024
Document Type
Thesis
Degree Name
Bachelor of Science (BS)
Department
Marine Science
College
College of Science
First Advisor
Angelos Hannides
Abstract/Description
Marshes and swashes are vital environments as a controlling barrier between land affected by various pollutants and the ocean. Eutrophication and the effects of this process can be detrimental for the areas experiencing it. I am interested in ways areas that have little contact with human interactions compare to areas that are heavily urbanized, and whether either of these locations is at a higher risk for eutrophication. Using spectrophotometry and fluorometry, I analyzed samples collected from the relatively undeveloped and restricted-access locations of Waities Island Beach and Dunn Sound monthly for dissolved nutrients, and chlorophyll. At the time of sampling, I also measured temperature, salinity and oxygen levels using a handheld device. These data were then compared to data collected from White Point Swash and Singleton Swash located in urbanized areas. Based on previous research done on this topic, the more urbanized locations should be more at risk for eutrophication due to their exposure to fertilizers and pesticides. This study showed that the two urbanized marsh creeks showed similar patterns in eutrophication parameters as the relatively undeveloped Dunn Sound, with largely similar patterns through the study time period. Further data analysis and research is needed to identify the reasons behind similarities and differences in these three marsh creeks.
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-No Derivative Works 4.0 International License.
Recommended Citation
Swantek, Ella, "Effects of Urbanization on Eutrophication Parameters in three tidal creeks" (2024). Honors Theses. 491.
https://digitalcommons.coastal.edu/honors-theses/491