Spatial and Temporal Patterns of Inorganic Nutrient Concentrations in the Androscoggin and Kennebec Rivers, Maine

A catchment-wide study was conducted to investigate the geography of nutrient dynamics in the Androscoggin and Kennebec Rivers, Maine. While nutrient concentrations resembled relatively pristine waters, nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) exhibited dramatic spatial and temporal patterns. Though these rivers are underdeveloped, impacts of human activities upon nutrients are clear. Population was a good predictor for DIN and P concentrations for the Kennebec River, but a poor predictor in the Androscoggin River. Comparison of point-source discharges into each river indicated that the Androscoggin River is influenced by discharges from pulp and paper mills, a finding confirmed by reduced nutrient transport after the closure of two Androscoggin River mills. Nutrient ratio analysis demonstrated a dramatic shift towards Redfield ratios, with DIN:P ratios decreasing from about 200:1 in headwater reaches to below 16:1 near the river outlets. These results may aid in understanding blooms of toxic dynoflagellates in the Gulf of Maine. Ratios were also altered during a prolonged drought period. Results describe a simple relationship between increased nutrient input and human population within single watersheds, with implications for coastal zone ecosystems.