COHOCTON RIVER NUTRIENT SURVEY

Spatial and temporal variations of water quality were observed in the Cohocton River. Seven sites on the river and three tributaries were tested for both dissolved metals and total phosphorus. Concentrations were measured while the river was at base flow, which is determined by the three available USGS stream gages, and after the watershed had experienced a significant rain event. Comparing concentrations at base flow to those after a rain event will determine if runoff from the watershed is affecting the water quality. Results have shown an increase of all elements the farther downstream samples are taken. Further analysis will observe the differences in the concentrations at given sites and how different sections of the watershed contribute to the increase in nutrients.