Sprague River Non-point Nutrient Loading Model Development

This project supported the continuing effort to develop SWAT and QUAL2E models for the Sprague River. Several things were done: 1) supplemented data collection efforts (biweekly samples from 6 fixed sites, event sampling, and synoptic sampling) for nutrients, flow, and other model parameters ; 2) supplemented lab analysis costs; 3) supported field/lab staff salary and equipment; 3) provided expert assistance with the modeling.

At the end of this stage of model development, we expect to have functional models that we can begin to use to assess current watershed conditions, identify patterns of water quality and nutrient loading relative to land use, channel geometry, riparian community composition, flow, etc. We also expect to identify areas in which further work will be required to refine the models. Also, additional work will be required to validate the models. This work will culminate in a highly useful set of tools for diagnosing and treating watershed problems that are causing significant problems for salmon downstream, and help us to prepare the Upper Klamath Basin to once again sustain healthy salmon runs.