Minnestoa River Assessment Project Report: Physical and Chemical Assessment

This second volume of the Minnesota River Assessment Project Report contains five sections. The first reports on sampling conducted on the river, ten tributaries, and twenty-one springs to determine sources and transport of sediment, nutrients, and oxygen-demanding substances. The second provides a hydrogeologic overview of the river basin, evaluates spring and groundwater contributions, and identifies human-impacted springs and groundwater systems. The third presents the results of a literature review on wetland water-quality functions, focusing on prairie-pothole wetlands and the potential role of wetland restoration/creation as a best management practice. The fourth reports on an evaluation of water quality and flow data from the Blue Earth River Basin. The fifth presents a water-quality analysis of the lower Minnesota River and a nonpoint-source pollution study of seven tributaries. The report includes numerous technical charts, tables, and graphs.