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This study used a mass balance approach by characterizing the input, output, and sink rates of N in order to assess a declared "stage III N-saturated forest" response to decreased atmospheric N deposition in western Maryland. Relying on the conceptual model of kinetic N-saturation to holistically link stream, vegetative, soil, and atmospheric compartments and the use of a novel stable isotopic technique, the study demonstrated dynamic soil NO3-N pools, unprocessed atmospheric NO3-N in base flow, and significant reductions in NO3-N yield in response to decreased atmospheric N deposition. A lumped conceptual model, incorporating a dormant season NO3-N flush, was proposed that explains forest response to decreased deposition and sheds light on the hydrologic processes that govern the storage/release of NO3-N among years. It is proposed that this flushing mechanism prevents forests from attaining higher stages of N-saturation and predicts forests will be responsive to further reductions in N deposition.
Advisor: | Eshleman, Keith N. |
Commitee: | Elmore, Andrew, Nelson, David |
School: | University of Maryland, College Park |
Department: | Marine-Estuarine-Environmental Sciences |
School Location: | United States -- Maryland |
Source: | MAI 53/03M(E), Masters Abstracts International |
Source Type: | DISSERTATION |
Subjects: | Biogeochemistry, Water Resource Management, Environmental science |
Keywords: | Atmospheric N deposition, N-saturation, Nitrate, Stable isotopes, Temperate forest |
Publication Number: | 1560879 |
ISBN: | 978-1-321-04712-7 |