Determining the Potential for Algal Bloom in Lake Maurepas: Effects of Changing Nutrient Load from Freshwater Diversion and Changes in Human Population

PI: Philip Voegel

The concentrations of nutrients in Lake Maurepas are measured on an approximately biweekly basis.  The surface temperature of the lake and its water clarity based measurements with a Secchi disk are completed at 9 sites throughout the lake by boat.  Water samples are returned to Southeastern Louisiana University where the levels of phosphate and silicate are determined spectroscopically.  The pH and nitrate, sodium and chloride ion concentrations are determined potentiometrically.  Algae content is determined by HPLC analysis of photopigments in algal cells removed from lake water by filtration.  Light microscopy is used to identify phytoplankton species.