Date of Award

5-2022

Document Type

Thesis

Degree Name

Master of Science in Environmental Sciences

Department

Geological Sciences

First Reader/Committee Chair

Alford, Jennifer

Abstract

Water quality deterioration of recreational surface waters from excess pollution inputs is a significant concern for the health of the public and aquatic ecosystem. This study will examine the effectiveness of Best Management Practices (BMPs) in reducing pollution inputs into Lake Gregory, Crestline, CA. The effectiveness of the BMPs was examined by testing for water quality parameters including dissolved oxygen, temperature, pH, conductivity, turbidity, nitrate (NO3-), ammonium (NH4+), total coliform, and Escherichia coli on weekly to bi-weekly basis for a period of 1 year. A statistical analysis involving descriptive statistics, Pearson’s correlation, the Efficient Ratios (ER) and Percent Removal Rates (PRR) equation, and comparisons to water quality criteria/objectives further assisted in examining the water quality of the lake. The findings of this study can be used by recreational managers in determining what BMPs to implement based on what pollutants were best controlled for by the BMPs specified in this study. On a more local level, the findings may assist recreational managers at Lake Gregory in determining if the maintenance of the BMPs is adequate for the BMPs to meet their design purpose of improving the water quality for recreational users. Recreational users can refer to the results of this study in determining if the lake is safe for recreational uses based on the number of exceedances of water quality criteria/objectives put in place to protect the public health.

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