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- Dr. Carmen Agouridis is an Extension Associate Professor in the in Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering at the Uni... moreDr. Carmen Agouridis is an Extension Associate Professor in the in Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering at the University of Kentucky where she conducts applied research to address current issues in the natural resources community, particularly in the fields of assessment and restoration of streams impacted by mining, urban or agricultural activities; stormwater management; mined land reclamation; and riparian zone management. Dr. Agouridis has served as PI or Co-PI on over $6 million in grants, authored nearly 40 refereed publications and over 20 extension publications, and advised over 30 undergraduate and graduate research projects. She serves as the Director of the Stream and Watershed Science Graduate Certificate and is a licensed professional engineer in the Commonwealth of Kentucky. Dr. Agouridis is also the recipient of the American Society of Biological and Agricultural Engineers 2014 A.W. Farrall Young Educator Award and the University of Kentucky Gamma Sigma Delta 2015 Master Teacher Award.edit
Construction and renovation of streams and riparian corridors on mined lands have become common activities in Appalachia. Surface mining for coal can disturb ephemeral and intermittent streams, and may disturb permanent streams in some... more
Construction and renovation of streams and riparian corridors on mined lands have become common activities in Appalachia. Surface mining for coal can disturb ephemeral and intermittent streams, and may disturb permanent streams in some cases. Under the Clean Water Act, operations that fill or otherwise disturb streams must perform compensatory mitigation.
Scientific studies have identified beneficial effects of woody vegetation (trees and shrubs) in riparian areas of streams on mined areas and elsewhere. This advisory describes the reasons for establishing woody vegetation in constructed streams' riparian areas, and describes proper methods for mine sites.
Scientific studies have identified beneficial effects of woody vegetation (trees and shrubs) in riparian areas of streams on mined areas and elsewhere. This advisory describes the reasons for establishing woody vegetation in constructed streams' riparian areas, and describes proper methods for mine sites.
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Antibiotic concentrations are typically measured using solid-phase extraction along with liquid chromatography, but this process is not practical due to a large number of man hours involved. The use of a lyophilizer with high-pressure... more
Antibiotic concentrations are typically measured using solid-phase extraction along with liquid chromatography, but this process is not practical due to a large number of man hours involved. The use of a lyophilizer with high-pressure liquid chromatography (HPLC) is an accurate and cost-effective method of analyzing antibiotics in water samples. An initial antibiotic analysis methodology was developed with the goal of concentrating antibiotics in water samples for greater detection; however, it was observed that the methodology required additional refinement to improve accuracy, particularly when manure was present in the water samples. Based on prior tetracycline antibiotic research, we hypothesized that sample preparation techniques and HLPC characteristics would influence our ability to detect these antibiotics in water samples. We anticipated that analysis of larger sample volumes would improve antibiotic detection while higher manure concentrations would decrease detection capabilities. The objective of this study was to examine the effects of a secondary sample preparation step (filtration), mobile phase solution, HPLC column, sample volumes, wavelengths, and manure concentrations on the recovery rates of three common antibiotics, specifically chlortetracycline (CTC), tetracycline (TC), and oxytetracycline (OTC). The study examined three filtration methods, two mobile phase solutions, two HPLC columns, five sample volumes, three wavelengths, and four manure concentrations. Best results were obtained with a mobile phase solution of acetonitrile with 0.05% formic acid, the Acclaim® RSLC C18 PA2 column, smaller sample volumes, and a wavelength of 356nm. This study highlighted some of the challenges associated with detecting antibiotics in water samples. The accurate detection of antibiotics in water samples is an important step in developing and testing methods to reduce antibiotic transport in the environment.
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Organic and/or inorganic fertilizers are used to promote crop growth yet the rate of fertilizer application is often based on the nitrogen needs of the crop and not the phosphorus needs, especially when utilizing animal manures with low N... more
Organic and/or inorganic fertilizers are used to promote crop growth yet the rate of fertilizer application is often based on the nitrogen needs of the crop and not the phosphorus needs, especially when utilizing animal manures with low N to P ratios as compared to plant N:P uptake. Because of this, soil phosphorus levels in many areas of the world are in excess of crop needs. Excessive levels of phosphorus in water bodies such as streams and lakes can result in a condition known as eutrophication. With eutrophication, nutrients promote algal growth which in turn decreases dissolved oxygen levels in receiving water bodies. The issue of excessive nutrient inputs to waterbodies is of particular importance to Kentucky due to its large agricultural base and the Commonwealth’s link to hypoxia in the Gulf of Mexico. Nutrient management is one way to minimize the impacts of phosphorus on waterways; however, the success of nutrient management is dependent in part on soil sampling strategies. This study examined the effect of soil sampling density (15 m x 15 m, 15 m x 30 m, and 15 m x 60 m) on Soil Test Phosphorus (STP) in three subplots. Results indicated that mean STP values for the subplots did not change with sampling densities; however, maximum STP levels displayed large variations. Depending on the sampling density used and the method of data aggregation (mean versus maximum), recommended nutrient application rates varied from phosphorus-based to nitrogen-based. Also of importance was the recognition that maximum STP values were driven by a shallow limestone rock layer, which was not visible at the time of sampling. This limestone rock layer, and hence these highest STP values, were immediately upgradient of a sinkhole from which collected soil samples also exhibited higher STP values. When developing nutrient management plans, particularly in karst landscapes where the potential for groundwater contamination and hence surface water contamination is higher, additional consideration should be given to the influence of geologic materials on soil nutrient levels and greater sampling densities around preferential flow paths.
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Specific conductance and selenium (Se) are two water quality parameters of emerging concern in the Appalachian coalfields. Isolation of high specific conductance and Se producing spoils from environmental water flows using a low... more
Specific conductance and selenium (Se) are two water quality parameters of emerging concern in the Appalachian coalfields. Isolation of high specific conductance and Se producing spoils from environmental water flows using a low permeability barrier is one method of minimizing the leaching of these constituents from coal mine spoils. Ideally, the material used to form the barrier should be readily accessible, have low levels of specific conductance and Se, and be capable of achieving a low permeability with the proper moisture adjustment. Brown and gray weathered sandstones are often readily available at mine sites in the Appalachian coalfields. Spoil samples and water quality samples from the University of Kentucky Bent Mountain Research Complex near Pikeville, Kentucky indicated that these spoil types hold promise in meeting the criteria of being a low specific conductance producing material. However, these sandstones tend to have higher sand contents than those typically used in compacted barriers or liners in landfills. The objective of this study was to assess the potential of using brown and/or gray weathered sandstones to create a low permeability barrier. To meet the objective of the study, a total of four spoil samples (identified as M1-M4) were collected in 2012. Each spoil sample was obtained from a different mine in eastern Kentucky. Samples M1 and M2 consisted of brown sandstone; sample M3 was gray sandstone; and sample M4 was a mixture of brown and gray sandstones. Each spoil sample was screened and analyzed for soil texture. Spoil moisture content-density relationships and spoil saturated hydraulic conductivity-moisture content relationships were developed for each sample using double ring permeameters. Maximum saturated hydraulic conductivity values ranged between a low of 5.9 x 10-8 cm s-1 to a high of 3.1 x 10-7 cm s-1 in the laboratory for the <2mm fraction. These saturated hydraulic conductivity values were comparable to soils used to construct liners in landfills, particularly in instances where the percentage of fines in the spoils were about 50% or greater. When in the field, however, it is expected that these saturated hydraulic conductivity values will typically be 1-3 orders of magnitude higher due to rock fragments. These results demonstrate that brown sandstone, with its higher fines content, is likely a more suitable media than gray sandstone for constructing a low permeability barrier to isolate high specific conductance producing and/or Se generating spoils. Based on these laboratory results, field assessments of brown weathered sandstones for this application are recommended.
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Nonpoint source pollution (NPS) of surface waters is a significant issue in agricultural lands, and best management practices (BMPs) are often used to reduce these impacts. Since the effectiveness of a BMP depends on a large number of... more
Nonpoint source pollution (NPS) of surface waters is a significant issue in agricultural lands, and best management practices (BMPs) are often used to reduce these impacts. Since the effectiveness of a BMP depends on a large number of widely varying factors, it is important to continue to develop BMPs in order to provide designers with more tools to use to maximize NPS removal. The contour weep berm is a new structural BMP constructed out of earth and subsequently vegetated. It is a linear BMP that is used in combination with a down-gradient vegetated filter strip or forested riparian buffer. Preliminary field evaluations of the contour weep berm indicate it is effective at reducing runoff volumes and peaks, promoting infiltration, and reducing sediment concentrations in runoff. Procedures for designing a contour weep berm are presented along with a design example. Linear BMPs, such as the contour weep berm, can provide producers with another means of effectively controlling NPS.
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The focus on specific conductivity in the Central Appalachian Coal Fields of the U.S. has highlighted the need to obtain accurate specific conductivity measurements, particularly in light of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency... more
The focus on specific conductivity in the Central Appalachian Coal Fields of the U.S. has highlighted the need to obtain accurate specific conductivity measurements, particularly in light of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) guidance that water discharged from mine sites in this region should have specific conductance levels less than 300-500 µS cm-1. Being able to accurately determine the specific conductance levels of mine discharged waters has significant implications for the USEPA as well as mine operators particularly when specific conductance levels approach this designated threshold. Presently, a number of sensors are available on the market for recording specific conductance measurements; however, a detailed study comparing sensor performance under controlled conditions (e.g. temperature and specific conductance levels) has not been performed. This paper compares the performance of four commonly used sensors YSI 6600 V2-4 data sonde, HOBO U-24-001, Solinst Model 3001 LTC Levelogger Junior, and In-situ Aqua TROLL 100. Results of this laboratory study indicated that for conditions more frequently encountered in Kentucky streams, the HOBO and Solinst sensors were most accurate.
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The U.S. Environmental Protection (USEPA) has issued guidance on the specific conductivity (EC25°C) of waters discharged from mined lands in the Appalachian Coal Belt Region of the U.S. In this guidance, the USEPA states that these... more
The U.S. Environmental Protection (USEPA) has issued guidance on the specific conductivity (EC25°C) of waters discharged from mined lands in the Appalachian Coal Belt Region of the U.S. In this guidance, the USEPA states that these waters should have an EC25°C less than 300-500 µS cm-1. Such a requirement places great importance on accurately determining EC25°C. Building upon a laboratory-based evaluation of four types of commercially available continuous logging conductivity sensors, this study examined sensor performance in the more harsh and variable field environments at forested and mined land streams in eastern Kentucky. The objectives of this study were to calculate the white noise variance associated with each sensor type and to evaluate white noise variance in relation to variations in EC25°C and discharge. Results of the study indicate that predominately increases in EC25°C, and to some extent increases in discharge, explain between 35 and 65 percent of the white noise variance.
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Bankfull hydraulic geometry relationships relate bankfull stream dimensions, such as cross-sectional area, width, mean depth, mean velocity, width to depth ratio, and slope to bankfull discharge. These relationships can assist in... more
Bankfull hydraulic geometry relationships relate bankfull stream dimensions, such as cross-sectional area, width, mean depth, mean velocity, width to depth ratio, and slope to bankfull discharge. These relationships can assist in determining a design discharge for stream restoration and management projects. This study assessed 27 stable streams located in the Inner Bluegrass and Outer Bluegrass regions of Kentucky. Reaches were selected based on the presence of a U.S. Geological Survey gage, as well as other conditions such as presence of readily identifiable bankfull indicators, stability indices, and site accessibility. Bankfull channel dimensions and discharges were determined, and hydraulic geometry relationships were developed for both the Inner Bluegrass and Outer Bluegrass regions. These scaling relationships for karst-influenced streams were similar to others reported in the literature for non-karst areas. Significant differences between the regions were found only for bankfull width and width-to-depth ratio. Streams in the Inner Bluegrass tended to be more narrow and deep at bankfull discharges less than 10 m3s−1 and wider and shallower at bankfull discharges greater than 20 m3s−1 as compared to stream in the Outer Bluegrass. It is suspected that physiographic conditions related to local geology and/or riparian vegetation at three sites in the Outer Bluegrass accounted for these differences. Results of this study indicate that in instances of geologic variation within a physiographic region, hydraulic geometry relationships may require evaluation at the watershed scale.
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Bankfull regional curves that relate channel dimensions and discharge to watershed drainage area are useful tools for assisting in the correct identification of bankfull elevation and in stream restoration and reconstruction. This study... more
Bankfull regional curves that relate channel dimensions and discharge to watershed drainage area are useful tools for assisting in the correct identification of bankfull elevation and in stream restoration and reconstruction. This study assessed 28 stable streams located in two physiographic regions of Kentucky: the Inner Bluegrass and the Outer Bluegrass. Bankfull channel dimensions, discharge, and return period as well as average channel slope, median bed material size, sinuosity, Rosgen stream classification, and percent impervious area were determined. Significant relationships were found between drainage area and the bankfull characteristics of cross-sectional area, width, mean depth, and discharge for both the Inner Bluegrass and Outer Bluegrass regions (α=0.05). It was also found that the percent impervious area in a watershed had minimal effect on bankfull dimensions, which is attributed to the well-vegetated nature of the streambanks, cohesive streambank materials, and bedrock control. No significant differences between any of the Inner Bluegrass and Outer Bluegrass regional curves were found (α=0.05). Comparisons were made between the Inner Bluegrass and Outer Bluegrass curves and others developed in karst-influenced areas in the eastern U.S. Though few significant differences were found between the regional curves for bankfull discharge and width, a number of the curves differed with regards to bankfull cross-sectional area and mean depth.
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Research Interests: Forestry, Irrigation, Biomass, Water Engineering, Forest Ecology And Management, and 14 moreForest Ecology, Biological Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Reforestation, Partition, Nitrogen, Biomass Allocation, Afforestation, Fertilization, Soil management, Total Nitrogen, Seedling Growth, Fertilisation, and Growing Season
One best management practice (BMP) commonly used to reduce the impacts of grazing on waterways is grass filters. Grass filters have been shown to improve runoff water quality through the trapping of sediments and pathogens and the uptake... more
One best management practice (BMP) commonly used to reduce the impacts of grazing on waterways is grass filters. Grass filters have been shown to improve runoff water quality through the trapping of sediments and pathogens and the uptake of nutrients. However, effluent concentrations from grass filters, particularly along lands either receiving high pollutant loads or in situations where land availability limits filter width, may exceed water quality standards. One means of potentially improving effluent quality under these constraints is through the addition of a weep berm upgradient of the grass filter. A weep berm is an earthen berm, constructed perpendicular to the flow path, with small chambers that allow for pooling and evenly spaced outlets that allow for passive dewatering. The overall effectiveness of a weep berm-grass filter system for decreasing runoff volumes, increasing infiltration rates, and reducing bacteria, nitrogen, phosphorus and sediment concentrations in runoff and infiltrate from a simulated grazed system was examined. Results indicated that the weep berm reduced upgradient runoff by over 96% and increased infiltration rates by nearly 60%. Significant improvements in runoff water quality were observed with the weep berm-grass filter showing the greatest effect on reducing constituent concentrations during the first flushing event. Infiltrate quality was also improved down-gradient of the weep berm. Additionally, both runoff and infiltrate constituent concentrations quickly met pre-treatment levels. Incorporation of the weep berm into the grass filter BMP resulted in effluent quality meeting some drinking water standards, thus demonstrating the potential for this compact system to protect down-gradient water bodies. Though additional research is needed, results from this study are promising.
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The curve number (CN) method is a common technique to estimate runoff volume, and it is widely used in coal mining operations such as those in the Appalachian region of Kentucky. However, very little CN data is available for watersheds... more
The curve number (CN) method is a common technique to estimate runoff volume, and it is widely used in coal mining operations such as those in the Appalachian region of Kentucky. However, very little CN data is available for watersheds disturbed by surface mining and thus reclaimed using traditional techniques. Furthermore, as the CN method does not readily account for variations in infiltration rates due to varying rainfall patterns, the selection of a single CN value to encompass all rainfall temporal patterns could lead engineers to substantially under- or over-size water detention structures used in mining operations. Using rainfall and runoff data from a surface coal mine located in the Cumberland Plateau of eastern Kentucky, CNs were computed for conventionally reclaimed lands. The effects of temporal rainfall patterns on CNs was also examined by classifying storms as intense, steady, multi-interval intense, or multi-interval steady. Results indicate that CNs for such reclaimed lands ranged from 62 to 94 with a mean value of 85. Temporal rainfall patterns were also shown to significantly affect CN values with intense storms having significantly higher CNs than multi-interval storms. These results indicate that a period of recovery is present between rainfall bursts of a multi-interval storm that allows depressional storage and infiltration rates to rebound.
Research Interests: Environmental Engineering, Civil Engineering, Methodology, Water resources, Carbon, and 18 moreMining, Watershed Management, Surface water hydrology, Land Use, Lead, Recovery, Surface Water, Rainfall, Curve Number, Precipitation, Storage, Drainage Divide, Infiltration, Runoff, Storms, Sedimentary Rocks, Coal Mines, and Drainage Basins
Excess compaction occurs through the use of traditional surface mining reclamation techniques, thereby resulting in low infiltration rates and subsequently high peak flow and runoff volumes. The incorporation of loose-dumped spoil into... more
Excess compaction occurs through the use of traditional surface mining reclamation techniques, thereby resulting in low infiltration rates and subsequently high peak flow and runoff volumes. The incorporation of loose-dumped spoil into the reclamation process has been shown to promote tree growth; however, designers have little information regarding the probable hydrologic consequences (PHC) associated with loose-dumped spoil. To better understand the hydrologic effects of reclaiming mined lands using loose-dumped spoil, curve numbers (CN) were developed for both a steeply sloping, forested watershed in eastern Kentucky and six, one-acre test cells comprised of loose-dumped spoil; these CNs were then compared. Representative hydrographs from a small, medium and large storm event each were compared between the forested watershed and the loosed-dumped spoil. Results of this project indicate that the mean CN for loose-dumped spoil was lower than the mean CN for the forested watershed. Additionally, the lag time and length of interflow response for the loose-dumped spoil were similar to that of the forested watershed. These results indicate that the PHC requirement that the hydrologic response of pre-mining land be similar to reclaimed mined land can be successfully achieved even prior to the establishment of the forest.
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The traditional means of tracking animal location in a field is by visual observation. Not only is this method labor intensive, it is also prone to error as the observer can alter cattle movement, observation periods are often too short... more
The traditional means of tracking animal location in a field is by visual observation. Not only is this method labor intensive, it is also prone to error as the observer can alter cattle movement, observation periods are often too short to obtain confidence in general daily behavior patterns, and observer fatigue becomes an issue. In the 1990s, the University of Kentucky began using GPS collars on cattle to track their position with the goal of incorporating this information into cattle management practices. One of the key unanswered questions regarding the GPS collars is the accuracy of the position data recorded by the collar. The objective of this work was to assess the capabilities and limitations of using GPS collars to track animal movement in grazed watersheds. Static tests were conducted in an open field, under trees, and near fence lines to ascertain the impacts of various field features on collar performance. Dynamic tests were carried out to examine the errors associated with the collars while operated under real−world conditions. Results from these tests indicate that the collars generally provide data with horizontal accuracies of 4 to 5 m. This information will assist researchers in the development of experiments based on collar capabilities and limitations.
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The collection and analysis of samples from storm events constitutes a large portion of the effort associated with water quality research. Estimating concentrations or loads from these events is often difficult. The equipment necessary to... more
The collection and analysis of samples from storm events constitutes a large portion of the effort associated with water quality research. Estimating concentrations or loads from these events is often difficult. The equipment necessary to analyze the samples and the required laboratory resources are typically significant expenses incurred by the researcher. One potential method to reduce these costs is through the development of generic relationships between concentrations and easily measured variables such as dimensionless flow rate or time. The benefits recognized from such an effort include a reduction in the number of required samples, resulting in a reduction in cost. Using data collected from an Arkansas stream near Fayetteville, relationships between the generic variables (time and flow) and several constituents (nitrate-N, orthophosphate, total phosphorus, ammonia-N, total Kjeldahl nitrogen, chemical oxygen demand, total suspended solids, fecal coliforms, and fecal streptococci) were examined. Results of the analyses indicated that a form of the gamma function could be used to estimate the flow-weighted mean concentrations and loads of the constituents at a significant cost savings to the user, assuming that single-peak hydrograph data were readily available. By using a single sample collected at the peak of the storm along with information pertaining to the time of sample collection, time of the peak of the storm hydrograph, and the constituent concentration of the sample, the flow-weighted mean concentration or load could be determined. Results of the analysis indicate that the method performed reasonably well. Since the analysis of only one sample is required to determine the flow-weighted mean concentration or load, instead of several samples, this method is quite appealing to users on a limited budget.
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Streams play a critical role in the movement of water, sediment and nutrients across our landscape. Streams provide habitat to both aquatic and terrestrial life, and in many instances, streams support societal needs such as transportation... more
Streams play a critical role in the movement of water, sediment and nutrients across our landscape. Streams provide habitat to both aquatic and terrestrial life, and in many instances, streams support societal needs such as transportation and recreation. As such, streams are a vital part of our environment. Unfortunately, anthropogenic activities such as urbanization, agriculture, and resource extraction have degraded many of our streams to the point where they can no longer provide many of these services. Through stream restoration, we are able to restore many of these ecosystem functions while also reconnecting people and communities to streams.
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Earth’s diverse ecosystems range in size, climate and composition. Recognizing that ecosystem components are interconnected is an important step in understanding ecosystem dynamics. Collectively, ecosystems provide numerous... more
Earth’s diverse ecosystems range in size, climate and composition. Recognizing that ecosystem components are interconnected is an important step in understanding ecosystem dynamics. Collectively, ecosystems provide numerous life-sustaining goods and services such as food, air purification, and pollination yet their worth is generally undervalued. The goal of the learning activity described below is to: 1) help students define ecosystems, 2) identify biotic and abiotic components of an ecosystem, 3) identify the ecosystem goods and services valued by humans, and 4) understand how ecosystem components affect each other. This will be accomplished with movie clips from Apollo 13, examining a model ecosystem and creating a visual web of an ecosystem’s interconnectedness, all of which prompt a discussion of connections between biotic and abiotic elements and how ecosystems relate to human well-being. The knowledge gained from these activities should help students better understand how human actions can positively and negatively impact ecosystems.
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Bankfull discharge is often used as a surrogate for channel-forming or dominant discharge – the morphologically significant discharge that shapes the river. Because of this, understanding the magnitude and frequency of bankfull discharge... more
Bankfull discharge is often used as a surrogate for channel-forming or dominant discharge – the morphologically significant discharge that shapes the river. Because of this, understanding the magnitude and frequency of bankfull discharge is important for river management and restoration. While an average return period of 1.5 years is often cited for bankfull discharge, this event can occur at intervals of less than one year to more than a decade. Determining bankfull discharge magnitude and frequency requires the ability to identify bankfull elevation in the field, transform this elevation into a discharge, and then compute the frequency of the resultant discharge.
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Kentucky's abundant forage and extensive stream system have helped the Commonwealth become the largest beef producing state east of the Mississippi River. While streams and ponds serve as a water source for many operations, livestock can... more
Kentucky's abundant forage and extensive stream system have helped the Commonwealth become the largest beef producing state east of the Mississippi River. While streams and ponds serve as a water source for many operations, livestock can quickly degrade soil and water quality by trampling streambanks and defecating and urinating in and around waterbodies. These actions increase sediment, pathogen, and nutrient loads to streams, rivers, and lakes which in turn can causes eutrophication. To help protect the health of Kentucky's soil and water, producers can implement best management practices (BMPs). These practices help reduce the sources of pollutants and/or the transport of pollutants to waterways. One such practice or BMP is limiting cattle access to streams and ponds. When producers exclude livestock access to stream and ponds and their associated riparian buffers, an alternative source of water is required. Automatic water fountains are one commonly used means of providing cattle with water from an alternate source. A water tank constructed using a heavy equipment tire may serve as a viable option for supplying livestock with an alternate source of water.
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Many urban homeowners are not sure what to do about the stream in their backyard. Who owns it? How can I take care of it? What plants are good for my streambanks? These common questions lead to some confusing answers. This publication is... more
Many urban homeowners are not sure what to do about the stream in their backyard. Who owns it? How can I take care of it? What plants are good for my streambanks? These common questions lead to some confusing answers. This publication is designed to help the homeowner of a backyard stream appreciate this resource, protect personal property, and improve water quality and habitat.
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Knowing the amount of water flowing in a stream can improve management practices such as those related to streambank erosion, pollutant loading and transport, and flood control. Streamflow or discharge is defined as the volume of water... more
Knowing the amount of water flowing in a stream can improve management practices such as those related to streambank erosion, pollutant loading and transport, and flood control. Streamflow or discharge is defined as the volume of water moving past a specific point in a stream for a fixed period of time.
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Sediments in waterbodies cause a number of problems such as harming aquatic habitats, filling reservoirs, and worsening flooding. High amounts of sediment in the water inhibit the ability of fish and aquatic macroinvertebrates to move,... more
Sediments in waterbodies cause a number of problems such as harming aquatic habitats, filling reservoirs, and worsening flooding. High amounts of sediment in the water inhibit the ability of fish and aquatic macroinvertebrates to move, breathe, hunt and reproduce. Accumulated sediments in reservoirs reduces their useful life and increases costs associated with maintenance. Streams experiencing such sediment buildup carry less water during storm events.
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Increased levels of urbanization result in reductions in the amount of rainfall that infiltrates and evapotranspires and increases the amount of rainfall that becomes runoff. These changes can result in flooding, streambank erosion, and... more
Increased levels of urbanization result in reductions in the amount of rainfall that infiltrates and evapotranspires and increases the amount of rainfall that becomes runoff. These changes can result in flooding, streambank erosion, and water quality degradation. Hydrologic models are useful in understanding watersheds and how changes in a watershed can affect hydrology. Hydrologic models can predict the amount of rainfall that becomes runoff under different scenarios.
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Streams are an important part of the landscape. Streams transport water, sediment and energy; provide habitat for aquatic life and support terrestrial life; provide a place for recreation; and in many cases serve as a water supply. The... more
Streams are an important part of the landscape. Streams transport water, sediment and energy; provide habitat for aquatic life and support terrestrial life; provide a place for recreation; and in many cases serve as a water supply. The health of streams---or their ability to perform these important functions---is dependent on the conditions of the watersheds which they drain. Changes in land use within a watershed can affect a stream's health.
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Karst refers to terrain largely drained by subsurface conduits and caves. Karst landscapes are characterized by surface features such as springs, sinkholes, shallow depressions, and rolling hills. Karst regions are also known for their... more
Karst refers to terrain largely drained by subsurface conduits and caves. Karst landscapes are characterized by surface features such as springs, sinkholes, shallow depressions, and rolling hills. Karst regions are also known for their subsurface or below-ground features such as conduits and caves. What makes a karst region unique is the way runoff drains from the land. In karst regions, some of the runoff flows into surface features such as sinkholes where it then travels underground. Some of this infiltrated water re-emerges at springs, and some continues moving underground.
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Streambank erosion refers to the removal of soil and other material, such as rock and vegetation, from the streambank. Streambank erosion is a naturally occurring process, but the rate at which it occurs is often increased by... more
Streambank erosion refers to the removal of soil and other material, such as rock and vegetation, from the streambank. Streambank erosion is a naturally occurring process, but the rate at which it occurs is often increased by anthropogenic or human activities such as urbanization and agriculture. Changes in land use can cause streambanks to erode at rates much faster than those seen in natural, undisturbed systems.
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Stream restoration is the re-establishment of the structure (dimension, pattern, and profile) and function (transport of water, sediment, and nutrients; habitat provision) of a degraded stream as closely as possible to pre-disturbance... more
Stream restoration is the re-establishment of the structure (dimension, pattern, and profile) and function (transport of water, sediment, and nutrients; habitat provision) of a degraded stream as closely as possible to pre-disturbance conditions.
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A common site throughout urban and suburban landscapes is the lawn. Though small is size, lawns collectively account for nearly 25% of the urbanized land area in the U.S. To keep our lawns beautiful, U.S. households spent $29.5 billion in... more
A common site throughout urban and suburban landscapes is the lawn. Though small is size, lawns collectively account for nearly 25% of the urbanized land area in the U.S. To keep our lawns beautiful, U.S. households spent $29.5 billion in 2012, or about $350 per household, on lawn and garden activities. These activities include mowing, watering, as well as applying fertilizers, pesticides and herbicides.
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Groundwater is an important water source for activities such as drinking, bathing, cooking, and crop irrigation. Keeping our groundwater sources clean is becoming more challenging with an ever growing population. In watersheds underlain... more
Groundwater is an important water source for activities such as drinking, bathing, cooking, and crop irrigation. Keeping our groundwater sources clean is becoming more challenging with an ever growing population. In watersheds underlain with karst, such as many of those in Kentucky, the groundwater is more susceptible to contamination. This is because surface waters, such as runoff and in some cases streamflow, travel into the subsurface of karst by way of fractures, sinkholes, swallow holes, conduits and caves Such direct paths into the groundwater mean that pollutants reach the aquifer much more quickly with little to no filtration. Thus, while waters from springs and wells may look clean, they may actually contain unsafe levels of pollutants such as bacteria and nitrogen.
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Fresh water is an essential natural resource that is used every day for drinking, bathing, cooking, cleaning, and recreation. In Kentucky, the water used for these tasks mainly comes from streams and rivers, but it can also come from... more
Fresh water is an essential natural resource that is used every day for drinking, bathing, cooking, cleaning, and recreation. In Kentucky, the water used for these tasks mainly comes from streams and rivers, but it can also come from groundwater. Because our streams, rivers, and aquifers are so vital to our daily lives, it is important that we protect them from trash, debris, and other pollutants found in stormwater. What happens to the land around these water sources affects their condition and health.
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As more land is covered by impervious surfaces, less rainfall infiltrates into the ground and instead becomes runoff. Too much runoff is problematic. Flooding increases, streambanks erode, and water quality is reduced. An increase of... more
As more land is covered by impervious surfaces, less rainfall infiltrates into the ground and instead becomes runoff. Too much runoff is problematic. Flooding increases, streambanks erode, and water quality is reduced. An increase of impervious area of as little 10 percent has been shown to negatively impact streams. The purpose of this publication is to explain low impact development strategies and how they can be used to improve stormwater management by reducing impacts on streams.
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Kentucky has more than 90,000 miles of rivers and streams and thousands of ponds, lakes, reservoirs, and wetlands. You can improve your surroundings and the quality of your stream, pond, or lake by planting an area called a riparian... more
Kentucky has more than 90,000 miles of rivers and streams and thousands of ponds, lakes, reservoirs, and wetlands. You can improve your surroundings and the quality of your stream, pond, or lake by planting an area called a riparian buffer or buffer zone.
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As stormwater moves across lawns and paved areas, it picks up bacteria, nutrients, sediments, heavy metals, and chemicals before traveling through the storm sewers to our water bodies. Because the stormwater is not cleaned or treated, it... more
As stormwater moves across lawns and paved areas, it picks up bacteria, nutrients, sediments, heavy metals, and chemicals before traveling through the storm sewers to our water bodies. Because the stormwater is not cleaned or treated, it creates harmful conditions for the environment and for us.
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As our population has grown, so have our towns and cities, and this growth has led to an increase in stormwater runoff. Stormwater best management practices help mitigate the impact of stormwater runoff on water quality by reducing... more
As our population has grown, so have our towns and cities, and this growth has led to an increase in stormwater runoff. Stormwater best management practices help mitigate the impact of stormwater runoff on water quality by reducing pollutant loads through physical, chemical and/or biological processes. One of the most effective BMPs at improving stormwater quality is the stormwater wetland.
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Non-point source pollution (NPS) occurs when rainfall and snowmelt flows over the ground, picking up pollutants such as pathogens, sediments, and nutrients on its way to streams, rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water. More than 50... more
Non-point source pollution (NPS) occurs when rainfall and snowmelt flows over the ground, picking up pollutants such as pathogens, sediments, and nutrients on its way to streams, rivers, lakes, and other bodies of water. More than 50 percent of the nation's rivers and streams and nearly 70 percent of the nation's lakes are impacted by NPS. Pathogens, sediments, and nutrients are the biggest contributors to impairment of rivers and streams while mercury, nutrients, and PCBs (polychlorinated biphenyls) are the biggest contributors to the impairment of lakes. One method of managing NPS pollution is through the use of structural best management practices (BMPs). Structural BMPs are designed to decrease the volume of runoff that enters water bodies by increasing infiltration rates. Examples of structural BMPs include rain gardens, stormwater wetlands, and riparian buffers. A newer structural BMP is a weep berm.
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Managing runoff in urban areas offers many challenges for engineers, landscape architects, and planners. As cities grow, the amount of impermeable surfaces--those that do not allow water to infiltrate into the ground--increases. Examples... more
Managing runoff in urban areas offers many challenges for engineers, landscape architects, and planners. As cities grow, the amount of impermeable surfaces--those that do not allow water to infiltrate into the ground--increases. Examples of impervious surfaces are asphalt roads, concrete sidewalks, parking lots, building roofs, and areas of highly compacted soils such as in subdivisions. If not properly managed, the stormwater runoff produced by these impermeable surfaces can have negative effects on nearby surface waters.
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Stormwater is excess water from rainfall and snowmelts that flows over the ground and does not infiltrate the soil. It is a concern not just in urban areas but in suburban and agricultural locations as well. As stormwater runoff flows... more
Stormwater is excess water from rainfall and snowmelts that flows over the ground and does not infiltrate the soil. It is a concern not just in urban areas but in suburban and agricultural locations as well. As stormwater runoff flows over the land or impervious surfaces, it picks up and transports trash and debris as well as pollutants such as pathogens, nutrients, sediments, heavy metals, and chemicals. This publication reviews some of these techniques and provides a list of recommended resources for additional information.
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Kentucky's abundant forage makes it well suited for grazing livestock, but the pasturing and pasture feeding of livestock need to be managed. Allowing cattle to behave as they would naturally can lead to overgrazing, congregation in... more
Kentucky's abundant forage makes it well suited for grazing livestock, but the pasturing and pasture feeding of livestock need to be managed. Allowing cattle to behave as they would naturally can lead to overgrazing, congregation in sensitive areas, buildup of mud, loss of vegetation, compaction of soils, and erosion.
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This publication provides livestock producers with instructions on how to install a stream crossing that provides animal and vehicular access across streams. This best management practice (BMP) is intended for use with exclusion fencing... more
This publication provides livestock producers with instructions on how to install a stream crossing that provides animal and vehicular access across streams. This best management practice (BMP) is intended for use with exclusion fencing that restricts cattle access to the stream. Implementation of a stream crossing with exclusion fencing will improve water quality, reducing nutrient, sediment, pathogen, and organic matter loads to streams.
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Shade is a must for pasture-based grazing systems. It curtails heat stress, which is detrimental to cattle and causes a decrease in milk production, feed intake, weight gains, and fertility.
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Actively creating a riparian buffer typically consists of six steps: site assessment, planting plan development, site preparation, species selection, planting, and protection and maintenance.
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A rain barrel is a simple and inexpensive means of conserving fresh water by collecting and storing rainwater from rooftops for use during drier periods. Though water collected in rain barrels is non-potable—not suitable for drink-ing—it... more
A rain barrel is a simple and inexpensive means of conserving fresh water by collecting and storing rainwater from rooftops for use during drier periods. Though water collected in rain barrels is non-potable—not suitable for drink-ing—it can be used in a variety of ways around your home.
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In Kentucky, cattle on pastures are often watered by streams. Although this practice solves water requirements for cattle, providing livestock free access to streams and riparian areas can lead to a contaminated water supply and damaged... more
In Kentucky, cattle on pastures are often watered by streams. Although this practice solves water requirements for cattle, providing livestock free access to streams and riparian areas can lead to a contaminated water supply and damaged ecosystems. A better solution is to implement riparian buffers with limited access points to streams or provide alternative water sources. This practice can protect water quality, increase herd production, and provide other landowner benefits. The purpose of this publication is to explain the role of riparian areas and how they can benefit the livestock producer, the herd, and the environment.
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Abstract: Six research plots were established on a surface mine for the purpose of evaluating the forest productivity potential and hydrological and water quality characteristics of three different loose-graded spoil types. The three... more
Abstract: Six research plots were established on a surface mine for the purpose of evaluating the forest productivity potential and hydrological and water quality characteristics of three different loose-graded spoil types. The three spoil types were: (1) predominately brown, ...
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Abstract: Reforestation research on mined lands has shown that loosely graded topsoil, weathered sandstone and/or other non-toxic topsoil substitutes are suitable growing media for establishing native forests in Appalachia. Reclamation... more
Abstract: Reforestation research on mined lands has shown that loosely graded topsoil, weathered sandstone and/or other non-toxic topsoil substitutes are suitable growing media for establishing native forests in Appalachia. Reclamation practitioners however, have expressed ...
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Research Interests: Climate Change, Water quality, Carbon Dioxide, Carbon Sequestration, Carbon Cycle, and 28 moreLand Use, Graduate Student, Land Reclamation, Nitrogen, Tree Planting, Relative Humidity, Tree growth, Solar radiation, Forest ecosystem, Total Organic Carbon, Sampling strategy, Survival Rate, Data Processing, Water quality monitoring, Plant species, Early Terrestrial Ecosystems, Water Quality, Wind Speed, Large Scale, Penetration Depth, Annual Report, Bulk Density, Leaf Area, Atmospheric Carbon Dioxide, Department of Energy, Soil Bulk Density, Carbon Sink, and Treatment Effect
Water quality and nutrient management research at the University of Kentucky related to beef cattle interaction with streams involved the collection and analysis of GPS position data. Typical data collection periods consisted of a... more
Water quality and nutrient management research at the University of Kentucky related to beef cattle interaction with streams involved the collection and analysis of GPS position data. Typical data collection periods consisted of a position data point for each of 16 collars every five minutes for 18 days. Because of the volume of data points, multiple geodatabases were designed to organize and store the spatial data. Custom scripts and analysis techniques were developed to determine distance and location relationships using ArcGIS. The data were formatted and made available for research extension purposes using ArcPublisher.
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The University of Kentucky has been coordinating a phased watershed assessment and restoration project in the Cane Run watershed. This watershed includes the recharge zone for the Royal Spring aquifer, a major source of drinking water for... more
The University of Kentucky has been coordinating a phased watershed assessment and restoration project in the Cane Run watershed. This watershed includes the recharge zone for the Royal Spring aquifer, a major source of drinking water for Georgetown, Kentucky (pop. 40,000). Phase one of the Cane Run Watershed Project will be completed in January 2011, and includes development of a watershed-based plan (WBP) and initial best management practice (BMP) implementation. The WBP utilizes water quality monitoring to characterize current watershed conditions and identify areas for restoration. Five miles of streamside “No Mow Zones” have been implemented in the watershed to improve water quality, protect stream banks, and support aquatic life. These areas have been developed into graduate student research plots for riparian management strategies. The University of Kentucky’s Agricultural Experiment Station is located in the watershed, and is a major partner in the watershed project. BMPs installed on the University’s farm include a 4,000 tree Conservation Reserve Program (CRP) reforestation project and improved stream crossings. The crossings will reduce stream bank erosion caused by livestock and farm equipment and will be utilized by the World Equestrian Games endurance horse race. A 2009 pesticide amnesty in the watershed resulted in proper disposal of 6,700 pounds of outdated and unused pesticides. Local government officials developed an 8.5-mile multi-use recreational trail in the Cane Run watershed. A 26-acre easement for the trail includes streamside “No Mow Zones” and native plantings. Educational signage and kiosks have been placed along the trail to educate trail users about the watershed, its impairments, and restoration efforts. The city and University are also working together in urban sub-watersheds to identify sanitary sewer and stormwater problems. A watershed festival held in August 2010 promoted water quality awareness to over 300 watershed residents.
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Natural stream functions and stability in many areas of the Southeastern USA are threatened by changes in watershed hydrology and land use, resulting in unstable streams with poor habitat and water quality. Impacts include eroding... more
Natural stream functions and stability in many areas of the Southeastern USA are threatened by changes in watershed hydrology and land use, resulting in unstable streams with poor habitat and water quality. Impacts include eroding streambanks, unsafe water supplies, reservoir siltation, impaired habitat, fish kills, and loss of floodplain functions. Causes of stream impairment include channelization, stormwater runoff, road crossings, sediment loads, cattle access, and loss of riparian vegetation. Resource management agencies in many states are now promoting a natural channel design approach for restoring and enhancing degraded stream systems. Our stream restoration team has collaborated with many local, state, and federal organizations to implement a comprehensive education program involving field demonstrations and hands-on workshops to increase professional competence among designers, contractors, funding agencies, and regulators. Our goal is to teach resource professionals how to effectively restore impaired stream and floodplain systems to achieve water quality and habitat restoration objectives. Since 2000, we have implemented more than 30 stream restoration demonstration projects throughout the Southeastern USA and educated more than 2000 practitioners through workshops, field days, and conferences. Designers and resource managers are using the increased understanding of stream restoration techniques gained from this program to implement effective restoration projects.
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Headwater streams have a significant nexus or physical, chemical, and/or biological connection to downstream reaches. Generally, defined as 1st‐3rd order with ephemeral, intermittent, or perennial flow regimes, these streams account for a... more
Headwater streams have a significant nexus or physical, chemical, and/or biological connection to downstream reaches. Generally, defined as 1st‐3rd order with ephemeral, intermittent, or perennial flow regimes, these streams account for a substantial portion of the total stream network particularly in mountainous terrain. Due to their often remote locations, small size, and large numbers, conducting field inventories of headwater streams is challenging. A means of estimating headwater stream location and extent according to flow regime type using publicly available spatial data is needed to simplify this complex process. Using field‐collected headwater point of origin data from three control watersheds, streams were characterized according to a set of spatial parameters related to topography, geology, and soils. These parameters were (1) compared to field‐collected point of origin data listed in three nearby Jurisdictional Determinations, (2) used to develop a geographic information system (GIS)‐based stream network for identifying ephemeral, intermittent, and perennial streams, and (3) applied to a larger watershed and compared to values obtained using the high‐resolution National Hydrography Dataset (NHD). The parameters drainage area and local valley slope were the most reliable predictors of flow regime type. Results showed the high‐resolution NHD identified no ephemeral streams and 9 and 65% fewer intermittent and perennial streams, respectively, than the GIS model.
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Research Interests: Earth Sciences, Environmental Science, Water, Water quality, Mining, and 15 moreMedicine, Biological Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Land Reclamation, Trees, Environmental quality, Streams, Kentucky, Industrial Waste, Water Quality, Surface Mining, Turbidity, Environment Quality, Hydrogen-Ion Concentration, and Electric Conductivity
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The US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) has issued guidance on the specific conductivity (EC25°C) of waters discharged from mined lands in the Appalachian Coal Belt Region of the USA. In this guidance, the USEPA states that these... more
The US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) has issued guidance on the specific conductivity (EC25°C) of waters discharged from mined lands in the Appalachian Coal Belt Region of the USA. In this guidance, the USEPA states that these waters should have an EC25°C less than 300–500 μS cm−1. Such a requirement places great importance on accurately determining EC25°C. Building upon a laboratory-based evaluation of four types of commercially available continuous logging conductivity sensors, this study examined sensor performance in the more harsh and variable field environments at forested and mined land streams in eastern Kentucky. The objectives of this study were to calculate the white noise variance associated with each sensor type and to evaluate white noise variance in relation to variations in EC25°C and discharge. Results of the study indicate that predominant increases in EC25°C, and to some extent increases in discharge, explain between 35 and 65% of the white noise variance.
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Research Interests: Environmental Science, Agronomy, Forestry, Irrigation, Biomass, and 15 moreForest Ecology And Management, Biology, Forest Ecology, Biological Sciences, Environmental Sciences, Reforestation, Partition, Nitrogen, Appalachia, Biomass Allocation, Afforestation, Fertilization, Locust, Fertilisation, and Growing Season
Excess compaction occurs through the use of traditional surface mining reclamation techniques, resulting in low infiltration rates and subsequently high peak flows and runoff volumes. The incorporation of loose-dumped spoil into the... more
Excess compaction occurs through the use of traditional surface mining reclamation techniques, resulting in low infiltration rates and subsequently high peak flows and runoff volumes. The incorporation of loose-dumped spoil into the reclamation process has been ...
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Surface mining poses a significant threat to the Appalachian region via forest loss and fragmentation. Reclamation methods that utilize heavy grading to prevent landslides and erosion create a compacted landscape that is not suitable for... more
Surface mining poses a significant threat to the Appalachian region via forest loss and fragmentation. Reclamation methods that utilize heavy grading to prevent landslides and erosion create a compacted landscape that is not suitable for forest establishment or growth. Overburden materials derived from differing geologic strata can exhibit large variation in physical, chemical, and mineralogical properties. Determining which strata should be used for creating a rooting medium for successful reforestation is not well established. Twelve 0.2‐ha plots composed of either segregated brown sandstone, gray sandstone, shale, or a sandstone–shale mixture (four treatments; n = 3) were created on a surface mine in eastern Kentucky using a low‐compaction reclamation method. Each plot was planted with native hardwood tree seedlings following the Forestry Reclamation Approach. After two growing seasons, brown sandstone treatments had four times greater extractable P (Mehlich III) and five times greater total N than the other treatments. This helped contribute to greater tree growth on brown sandstone treatments. Spoil settling was faster in the shale treatments due to the loss of carbonate cements. Clay contents and 2:1 minerals were also greater in the whole soil of the shale treatments, leading to greater plant‐available water and a greater cation exchange capacity. Gray sandstone treatments exhibited alkaline conditions (pH = 8.8) that suppressed tree growth. The mixing of brown sandstone and shale overburdens may produce a suitable combination of higher fertility, water holding capacity, and faster settling in reclaimed mine environments.
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Research Interests: Environmental Engineering, Civil Engineering, Environmental Science, Agribusiness, Animal Studies, and 15 moreEnvironmental Studies, Sustainable agriculture, Agriculture, Peer Review, Environmental Impacts, Livestock, Nonpoint Source Pollution, Stream Restoration, Environmental Impact, Grazing, Streams, Best management practice, Livestock Grazing, Sustainability, and Best Management Practices
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The focus on specific conductivity in the Central Appalachian Coal Fields of the USA has highlighted the need to obtain accurate specific conductivity measurements, particularly in light of the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA)... more
The focus on specific conductivity in the Central Appalachian Coal Fields of the USA has highlighted the need to obtain accurate specific conductivity measurements, particularly in light of the US Environmental Protection Agency (USEPA) guidance that water discharged from mine sites in this region should have specific conductance levels less than 300–500 μS cm−1. Being able to accurately determine the specific conductance levels of mine discharged waters has significant implications for the USEPA as well as mine operators particularly when specific conductance levels approach this designated threshold. Presently, a number of sensors are available on the market for recording specific conductance measurements; however, a detailed study comparing sensor performance under controlled conditions (e.g. temperature and specific conductance levels) has not been performed. This paper compares the performance of four commonly used sensors YSI 6600 V2-4 data sonde, HOBO U-24-001, Solinst Model 3001 LTC Levelogger Junior, and In-situ Aqua TROLL 100. Results of this laboratory study indicated that for conditions more frequently encountered in Kentucky streams, the HOBO and Solinst sensors were most accurate.
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ABSTRACT The traditional means of tracking animal location in a field is by visual observation. Not only is this method labor intensive, it is also prone to error as the observer can alter cattle movement, observation periods are often... more
ABSTRACT The traditional means of tracking animal location in a field is by visual observation. Not only is this method labor intensive, it is also prone to error as the observer can alter cattle movement, observation periods are often too short to obtain confidence in general daily behavior patterns, and observer fatigue becomes an issue. In the 1990s, the University of Kentucky began using GPS collars on cattle to track their position with the goal of incorporating this information into cattle management practices. One of the key unanswered questions regarding the GPS collars is the accuracy of the position data recorded by the collar. Static and dynamic tests have been conducted on up to 16 GPS collars to access the accuracies, capabilities and limitations of using GPS collars to track animal movement in grazed watersheds. Static tests were conducted in an open field, under trees, and near fence lines to ascertain the impacts of various field features on collar performance. Dynamic tests were carried out to examine the errors associated with the collars while operated under &amp;quot;real-world&amp;quot; conditions. Results from these tests will assist researchers in the development of experiments based on collar capabilities and limitations.
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ABSTRACT
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Research Interests: Environmental Science, Water quality, Water and wastewater treatment, Acid Mine Drainage, Environment and natural resources conservation, and 13 moreManganese, Natural Resource Economics, Bioreactor, Coal Mining, Water resource management, Sulfate, Kentucky, Drainage, Bioreactors, Water Quality, Surface Mining, Forest Biological Sciences, and Agricultural and Bioresource Engineering
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... John R. BARNETT1, Richard C. WARNER2, Carmen T. AGOURIDIS2*, and Dwayne R. EDWARDS2 1 AECOM USA, Okeechobee, Florida USA 2University of Kentucky, Department of Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering, 128 CE Barnhart Building,... more
... John R. BARNETT1, Richard C. WARNER2, Carmen T. AGOURIDIS2*, and Dwayne R. EDWARDS2 1 AECOM USA, Okeechobee, Florida USA 2University of Kentucky, Department of Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering, 128 CE Barnhart Building, Lexington, Kentucky ...
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Nitrogen (N) contamination within agricultural‐karst landscapes and aquifers is widely reported; however, the complex hydrological pathways of karst make N fate difficult to ascertain. We developed a hydrologic and N numerical model for... more
Nitrogen (N) contamination within agricultural‐karst landscapes and aquifers is widely reported; however, the complex hydrological pathways of karst make N fate difficult to ascertain. We developed a hydrologic and N numerical model for agricultural‐karst, including simulation of soil, epikarst, phreatic, and quick flow pathways as well as biochemical processes such as nitrification, mineralization, and denitrification. We tested the model on four years of nitrate (NO3−) data collected from a phreatic conduit and an overlying surface channel in the Cane Run watershed, Kentucky, USA. Model results indicate that slow to moderate flow pathways (phreatic and epikarst) dominate the N load and account for nearly 90% of downstream NO3− delivery. Further, quick flow pathways dilute NO3− concentrations relative to background aquifer levels. Net denitrification distributed across soil, epikarst, and phreatic water removes approximately 36% of the N inputs to the system at rates comparable to ...
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Streambank erosion refers to the removal of soil and other material, such as rock and vegetation, from the streambank (Figure 1). Streambank erosion is a naturally occurring process, but the rate at which it occurs is often increased by... more
Streambank erosion refers to the removal of soil and other material, such as rock and vegetation, from the streambank (Figure 1). Streambank erosion is a naturally occurring process, but the rate at which it occurs is often increased by anthropogenic or human activities such as urbanization and agriculture. Changes in land use can cause streambanks to erode at rates much faster than those seen in natural, undisturbed systems
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Sediment is one of the most common pollutants in waterbodies such as streams, rivers and lakes. Sources of sediment include upland areas, meaning lands above the floodplain, as well as the waterbodies themselves (Figure 1). Human... more
Sediment is one of the most common pollutants in waterbodies such as streams, rivers and lakes. Sources of sediment include upland areas, meaning lands above the floodplain, as well as the waterbodies themselves (Figure 1). Human activities that reduce or remove vegetation increase the amount of soil eroded. In the uplands, examples of sediment sources include tilled crop fields, grazed pastures, construction sites, and timber harvesting areas. Along water bodies, the beds and banks erode due to the force of moving water. Streambank erosion, for instance, contributes anywhere from 15 to 90% of the suspended sediment load in streams
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Water is a vital part of our everyday lives. Water is necessary for domestic activities such as drinking, cooking and cleaning; agricultural practices such as growing crops and livestock; and industrial uses such as manufacturing and... more
Water is a vital part of our everyday lives. Water is necessary for domestic activities such as drinking, cooking and cleaning; agricultural practices such as growing crops and livestock; and industrial uses such as manufacturing and transporting products (Figure 1). Some of our water use is seen, such as when we take a shower. However, most of our water use is hidden, meaning that water was used to make a product although little to no water may be in the product itself. Because water is so important, a branch of science is devoted to its study
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Reforestation research on mined lands has shown that loosely graded topsoil, weathered sandstone and/or other non-toxic topsoil substitutes are suitable growing media for establishing native forests in Appalachia. Reclamation... more
Reforestation research on mined lands has shown that loosely graded topsoil, weathered sandstone and/or other non-toxic topsoil substitutes are suitable growing media for establishing native forests in Appalachia. Reclamation practitioners however, have expressed confusion as to what constitutes the best available material other than topsoil. Six research plots were established on a surface mine for the purpose of evaluating the influence of three different loose- graded spoil types on tree performance. The three spoil types are: (1) predominately brown weathered sandstone; (2) predominately gray un-weathered sandstone; and (3) mixed weathered and un-weathered sandstones, and shale material (mine-run spoil). The total area of each plot is approximately 4,050 square meters (one acre). Four species of tree seedlings were planted into the spoils. Growth and survival of the planted trees were evaluated for two years. As an indicator of natural succession potential, percent ground cover ...
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<p>Abstract: Streams play a critical role in the movement of water, sediment and nutrients across our landscape. Streams provide habitat to both aquatic and terrestrial life, and in many instances, streams support societal needs... more
<p>Abstract: Streams play a critical role in the movement of water, sediment and nutrients across our landscape. Streams provide habitat to both aquatic and terrestrial life, and in many instances, streams support societal needs such as transportation and recreation. As such, streams are a vital part of our environment. Unfortunately, anthropogenic activities such as urbanization, agriculture, and resource extraction have degraded many of our streams to the point where they can no longer provide many of these services. Through stream restoration, we are able to restore many of these ecosystem functions while also reconnecting people and communities to streams.</p>
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Six research plots were established on a surface mine for the purpose of evaluating the forest productivity potential and hydrological and water quality characteristics of three different loose-graded spoil types. The three spoil types... more
Six research plots were established on a surface mine for the purpose of evaluating the forest productivity potential and hydrological and water quality characteristics of three different loose-graded spoil types. The three spoil types were: (1) predominately brown, weathered sandstone (BROWN); (2) predominately gray, un-weathered sandstone (GRAY); and (3) mixed weathered and un-weathered sandstones and shale material (MIXED). The average area of the six plots was approximately 3,658 m 2 . The physical and chemical soil characteristics that gave the BROWN spoil type a predictably higher productivity potential and natural regeneration than the GRAY and MIXED spoil were its finer soil texture, higher CEC and P concentration, and a pH that was more suitable for native hardwood trees. Four species of tree seedlings were planted into the spoils. Growth and survival of the planted trees were evaluated for three years. As an indicator of natural succession potential, percentage ground cove...
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Specific conductance and selenium (Se) are two water quality parameters of emerging concern in the Appalachian coalfields. Isolation of high specific conductance and Se producing spoils from environmental water flows using a low... more
Specific conductance and selenium (Se) are two water quality parameters of emerging concern in the Appalachian coalfields. Isolation of high specific conductance and Se producing spoils from environmental water flows using a low permeability barrier is one method of minimizing the leaching of these constituents from coal mine spoils. Ideally, the material used to form the barrier should be readily accessible, have low levels of specific conductance and Se, and be capable of achieving a low permeability with the proper moisture adjustment. Brown and gray weathered sandstones are often readily available at mine sites in the Appalachian coalfields. Spoil samples and water quality samples from the University of Kentucky Bent Mountain Research Complex near Pikeville, Kentucky indicated that these spoil types hold promise in meeting the criteria of being a low specific conductance producing material. However, these sandstones tend to have higher sand contents than those typically used in ...
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In 1996, a multidisciplinary group of researchers at the University of Kentucky initiated a study on the Starfire surface mine in eastern Kentucky to evaluate the effects of soil compaction and two organic amendments on the survivability... more
In 1996, a multidisciplinary group of researchers at the University of Kentucky initiated a study on the Starfire surface mine in eastern Kentucky to evaluate the effects of soil compaction and two organic amendments on the survivability and growth of high value tree species. Three types of prepared rooting medium were examined: compacted spoil, lightly compacted spoil, and uncompacted spoil. The compacted spoil was prepared using normally accepted spoil handling techniques that resulted in a smooth graded surface. The lightly compacted spoil was loose-dumped and struck-off with one or two passes of a bulldozer. The uncompacted spoil was loose-dumped and not further disturbed. In addition, organic amendments (mulches) were evaluated within the three reclamation techniques. The organic amendments used were processed hardwood bark mulch and a combination of straw and horse manure mulch. The following six species of trees were planted: white oak (Quercus alba), white ash (Fraxinus amer...
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What is Karst? Karst refers to terrain largely drained by subsurface conduits and caves. Karst landscapes are characterized by surface features such as springs, sinkholes, shallow depressions, and rolling hills (Figure 1). Karst regions... more
What is Karst? Karst refers to terrain largely drained by subsurface conduits and caves. Karst landscapes are characterized by surface features such as springs, sinkholes, shallow depressions, and rolling hills (Figure 1). Karst regions are also known for their subsurface or below-ground features such as conduits and caves (Figure 2). What makes a karst region unique is the way runoff drains from the land. In karst regions, some of the runoff flows into surface features such as sinkholes where it then travels underground. Some of this infiltrated water re-emerges at springs (Figure 1a), and some continues moving underground. An aquifer is a body of water-bearing rock located underground. Two important features of aquifers are how water is stored in the rock and how water moves through the rock. Rocks and sediment contain empty space known as pore space which can be filled with water (Figure 3). Different types of rocks and soil have different amounts of pore space, hence are able to...
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Nitrate (NO3⁻) fate estimates in turbulent karst pathways are lacking due, in part, to the difficulty of accessing remote subsurface environments. To address this knowledge and methodological gap, we collected NO3⁻, δ15NNO3, and δ18ONO3... more
Nitrate (NO3⁻) fate estimates in turbulent karst pathways are lacking due, in part, to the difficulty of accessing remote subsurface environments. To address this knowledge and methodological gap, we collected NO3⁻, δ15NNO3, and δ18ONO3 data for 65 consecutive days, during a low-flow period, from within a phreatic conduit and its terminal end-point, a spring used for drinking water. To simulate nitrogen (N) fate within the karst conduit, the authors developed a numerical model of NO3⁻ isotope dynamics. During low-flow, data show an increase in NO3⁻ (from 1.78 to 1.87 mg N L-1; p < 10-4) coincident with a decrease in δ15NNO3 (from 7.7 to 6.8‰; p < 10-3) as material flows from within the conduit to the spring. Modeling results indicate that the nitrification of isotopically-lighter ammonium (δ15NNH4) acts as a mechanism for an increase in NO3⁻ that coincides with a decrease in δ15NNO3. Further, numerical modeling assists with quantifying isotopic overprinting of nitrification on denitrification (i.e., coincident NO3⁻ production during removal) by constraining the rates of the two processes. Modeled denitrification fluxes within the karst conduit (67.0 ± 19.0 mg N m-2 d-1) are an order-of-magnitude greater than laminar ground water pathways (1-10 mg N m-2 d-1) and an order-of-magnitude less than surface water systems (100-1000 mg N m-2 d-1). In this way, karst conduits are a unique interface of the processes and gradients that control both surface and ground water end-points. This study shows the efficacy of ambient N stable isotope data to reflect N transformations in subsurface karst and highlights the usefulness of stable isotopes to assist with water quality numerical modeling in karst. Lastly, we provide a rare, if not unique, estimate of N fate in subsurface conduits and provide a counterpoint to the paradigm that karst conduits are conservative source-to-sink conveyors.
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Regional curves relate drainage area to the bankfull channel characteristics discharge, cross-sectional area, width, and mean depth. These curves are used for a variety of purposes, including aiding in the field identification of bankfull... more
Regional curves relate drainage area to the bankfull channel characteristics discharge, cross-sectional area, width, and mean depth. These curves are used for a variety of purposes, including aiding in the field identification of bankfull elevation and in the natural channel design process. When developing regional curves, the degree to which landform, geology, climate, and vegetation influence stream systems within a single physiographic province may not be fully considered. This study examined the use of the U.S. Geological Survey&#39;s Hydrologic Landscape Regions (HLR), as well as data from 2,856 independent sites throughout the contiguous United States (U.S.), to develop a set of regional curves (bankfull discharge, cross-sectional area, width, and mean depth) for (1) the contiguous U.S., (2) each of the 20 HLRs, (3) each of the eight physiographic divisions, (4) 22 of the 25 physiographic provinces, and (5) individual HLRs within the physiographic provinces. These regional curves were then compared to each other, as well as those from the literature. Regional curves developed for individual HLRs, physiographic divisions, and physiographic provinces tended to outperform the contiguous U.S. indicating increased stratification was beneficial. Further stratifying physiographic provinces by HLR markedly improved regional curve reliability. Use of HLR as a basis of regional curve development, rather than physiographic region alone, may allow for the development of more robust regional curves.
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Abstract The authors develop a numerical model to elucidate time-distributed processes controlling sediment carbon fate in phreatic karst. Sediment carbon processes simulated in the new numerical model include in-conduit erosion and... more
Abstract The authors develop a numerical model to elucidate time-distributed processes controlling sediment carbon fate in phreatic karst. Sediment carbon processes simulated in the new numerical model include in-conduit erosion and deposition, sediment carbon transport, surficial fine grained laminae evolution, carbon pool mixing, microbial oxidation, and the understudied process of sediment carbon exchange during equilibrium transport. The authors perform a model evaluation procedure that includes generalized likelihood uncertainty estimation to quantify uncertainty of the model results. Modeling results suggest that phreatic karst conduits sustain sediment transport activity long after surface storm events cease. The sustained sediment transport has the potential to shift the baseflow sediment yield of the phreatic karst to be on par with stormflow sediment yield. The sustained activity is suggested to promote the exchange of sediment carbon between the water column and subsurface karst deposits during equilibrium sediment transport conditions. In turn, the sediment carbon exchange impacts the mixing of new and old carbon pools and the flux of carbon from phreatic karst. Integrated numerical model results from this study support the concept that phreatic karst act as a biologically active conveyor of sediment carbon that temporarily stores sediment, turns over carbon at higher rates than surface streams, and recharges degraded carbon back to the fluvial system. The numerical modeling method adopted in this paper shows the efficacy of coupling carbon isotope fingerprinting with water quality modeling to study sediment carbon in phreatic karst.
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
Research Interests:
Recognizing that an ecosystem’s components are interconnected is an important step in understanding ecosystem dynamics. Collectively, the world’s diverse ecosystems provide numerous life-sustaining goods and services such as food, air... more
Recognizing that an ecosystem’s components are interconnected is an important step in understanding ecosystem dynamics. Collectively, the world’s diverse ecosystems provide numerous life-sustaining goods and services such as food, air purification, and pollination yet their worth is generally undervalued. The goal of the learning activity described in this chapter is to (1) help students define ecosystems, (2) identify biotic and abiotic components of an ecosystem, (3) identify the ecosystem goods and services valued by humans, and (4) understand how ecosystem components affect each other. This will be accomplished with movie clips from Apollo 13, examining a model ecosystem and creating a visual web of an ecosystem’s interconnectedness, all of which prompt a discussion of connections between biotic and abiotic elements and how ecosystems relate to human well-being. The knowledge gained from these activities should help students better understand how human actions can positively and negatively impact ecosystems.