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ARS Home » Plains Area » El Reno, Oklahoma » Oklahoma and Central Plains Agricultural Research Center » Agroclimate and Hydraulics Research Unit » Research » Publications at this Location » Publication #414363
Research Project: Development of a Monitoring Network, Engineering Tools, and Guidelines for the Design, Analysis, and Rehabilitation of Embankment Dams, Hydraulic Structures, and Channels

Location: Agroclimate and Hydraulics Research Unit

Title: Impacts of land use change on water quality dynamics in the Arkansas-White-Red Region Basin: A preliminary analysis (1980-2023)

Author
item PRASAD, GOKUL - University Of Missouri
item GUPTA, MEETA - University Of Missouri
item STEWARD, CHRISTOPHER - University Of Missouri
item ALOYSIUS, NOEL - University Of Missouri
item Hunt, Sherry
item CHINNASAMY, PENNAN - Non ARS Employee

Submitted to: Meeting Abstract
Publication Type: Abstract Only
Publication Acceptance Date: 3/29/2024
Publication Date: 4/9/2024
Citation: Prasad, G., Gupta, M., Steward, C.A., Aloysius, N., Hunt, S., Chinnasamy, P. 2024. Impacts of land use change on water quality dynamics in the Arkansas-White-Red Region Basin: A preliminary analysis (1980-2023). [Abstract]. 2024 Show Me Research Week - University of Missouri Research Forum, April 8-12, 2024, Columbia, Missouri.

Interpretive Summary:

Technical Abstract: Water quality is crucial in sustaining human health, biodiversity, agriculture, and aquatic life. Nitrogen fertilizer usage in the Mississippi River basin, which constitutes approximately 65% of the total fertilizer application in the continental United States, has significantly impacted water quality in downstream areas, including the Arkansas-White-Red region basin. This study investigates the implications of changes in land use and land cover (LULC) on water quality in this basin, utilizing preliminary data from the U.S. Geological Survey spanning from 1980 to 2023. While efforts to mitigate water pollution have improved nutrient levels in rivers draining agricultural lands in the Great Plains, nonpoint agricultural nutrient contributions remain challenging, particularly in areas with intensive crop cultivation. Analysis reveals a transition in LULC from forests, pastures, and farmland to urbanized areas over a relatively short period, intensifying the challenges to water quality management. Preliminary findings indicate a notable increase in total nitrogen (TN) export during 2000–2010. This increase is primarily driven by elevated dissolved inorganic nitrogen levels, predominantly nitrate. Furthermore, changes in precipitation patterns and alterations in land use and land cover have reduced evapotranspiration, further influencing nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations in the region. Understanding water quality dynamics in response to land use and land cover changes is crucial for effective watershed management and policy development. This study underscores the need for comprehensive strategies to address nonpoint agricultural nutrient contributions, mitigate urbanization impacts, and sustainably manage water resources in the Arkansas-White-Red region basin. Addressing these challenges requires comprehensive management strategies that integrate land use planning, agricultural practices, and water resource management to mitigate the adverse impacts on water quality and safeguard the ecological integrity of the basin. USDA is an equal opportunity provider and employer.