Assessment of Wetland Water Quality Services Across an Alteration Gradient on the Choptank River Watershed

Objectives

Build a conceptual model of ground water flow for wetlands and hydrologically linked streams in different geomorphologic settings. This model will address, in particular, the connectivity of wetlands in different geomorphologic settings to ground and surface waters. If data on the gydrology of degraded or restored wetlands is available, it will also be incorporated into the conceptual model. This information will be presented as a written report and used as input for the predictive landscape analysis tool.

Statement of Problem

See Objectives.

Strategy and Approach

USGS is part of a multi-disciplinary team funded through the USDA Conservation Effects Assessment Program (CEAP) for Wetlands. The main goals of the larger project are to quantify the ability of wetlands located along an alteration gradient to reduce nutrient loading in streams, to study the impact of wetland alteration on ecosystem functioning in adjacent streams, and to develop a landscape analysis tool which can be used to estimate wetland services and guide management decisions. These goals will be achieved through a multi-scale approach that incorporates collecting data at nine wetland sites. Study of each wetland will include collection of hydrologic and geologic data, water chemistry, and data on ecological function. Wetlands types to be studied include prior-converted (drained) wetlands on cropland, hydrologically restored wetlands, and relatively undisturbed wetlands located in agricultural areas of the Choptank Watershed on Maryland's Eastern Shore.

USGS scientists are primarily responsible for developing an understanding of position of the studied wetlands in the hydrologic system and the potential effect of wetlands on ground water and associated surface water chemistry. Conceptual hydrogeologic and geochemical models of the studied wetlands will be the product of this effort. USGS is also involved in decisions such as site selection and will participate as part of the project team on project activities where hydrologic and geochemical expertise are needed.