KSEF RDE: DIN Waste Management Tool For Estimating Nitrogen Removal By Sediments

This research development focuses on a DIN waste management tool for estimating in-stream nitrogen removal by sediments. The DIN waste management tool includes data collection and modeling components and is founded on new scientific results. The research development includes: (1) development of nitrogen stable isotope for sediment; and (2) development of hydrologic-biogeochemical modeling software that can be calibrated using nitrogen stable isotope measurements. We will use the KSEF grant to carry out an experimental design to test and verify the use of the new technology. Thereafter, we will develop the Tool into a software for hydrologic-biogeochemical modeling that can be used to estimate nutrient removal by streams draining agricultural lands. The DIN Waste Management Tool will be particularly useful for stream restoration consultants for before-and-after assessment of ecological engineering techniques in streams. This is the second and final time the proposal will be submitted. Based on the comments of the reviewers, the PIs omitted the literature critique and extensive discussion of the project’s merits and long-term research vision with regards to optimizing engineered watersheds. Rather, we stay focused on the uniqueness of the work, which is the relatively inexpensive, effective DIN Waste Management Tool for estimating nutrient removal by streams. To this end, much more attention is given to the data collection and modeling methods. The model inputs and parameters are thoroughly described. A sensitivity analysis is performed to show which model parameters require more careful assessment, validation, and require uncertainty bounds. Phosphorous considerations are addressed with respect to their potential for limitation in some streams and the model is coupled to a benthos carbon growth and decomposition sub-model. An experimental design that includes input data collection from the field, model simulation, and validation measurements are described in order that the innovative research can be brought to fruition.