INVESTIGATING THE SPATIAL AND TEMPORAL WATER QUALITY PATTERNS IN THE UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND BALTIMORE COUNTY’S WATERSHED

Abstract

The University of Maryland Baltimore County (UMBC) implemented stormwater control measures (SCMs) to mitigate stormwater quantity and quality impacts. While policies focus on controlling pollution, water quality measurements are not required to confirm downstream impacts. This work addressed the question of how UMBC influences the surrounding water quality of its local streams. Spatial and temporal patterns of nitrate-N, ammonium-N, and specific conductance were observed at 14 measurement locations, including inflows to campus, outflows from campus, and intermediate locations on campus. Although nitrate-N was not spatially variable, seasonal changes in plant uptake did influence nitrate-N. Ammonium-N was also influenced by seasonal changes in uptake and leaf litter in streams, and one site showed a potential indication of a sewage leak on campus. Specific conductance was influenced by impervious cover in the watershed and winter salt application. The patterns observed in this study can help UMBC with future stormwater management plans.