Sources of Nutrients Controlling the Plant Growth in Bauman Park Lake, Cherry Valley, Illinois Identified

Water-level and water-quality data collected in the vicinity of the Bauman Park Lake in Cherry Valley, Illinois have been used to identify the amount and sources of the nitrogen and phosphorus nutrients that control the growth of the algae and aquatic plants in the lake, according to a report released by the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) Department of the Interior. The study was done by the USGS in cooperation with the Village of Cherry Valley. The information contained in the report will help identify the most effective methods for controlling the plant growth and remediating the lake.

Robert Kay, USGS hydrologist and principal author of the report, noted that most of the nitrogen and phosphorus compounds that are the source of nutrients to the plants and algae in the lake are derived from the ground water that recharges to the lake. Once in the lake, these compounds are incorporated into the plants and algae, and become part of the lake sediment when the plants die. "Knowledge of the sources of the nutrients is essential to effective remediation of the lake so plant and algae growth doesn't reach the point where the fishery is harmed or the lake becomes aesthetically unappealing," Kay said.

The report titled, "Hydrology, water quality, and nutrient loads to the Bauman Park Lake, Cherry Valley, Winnebago County, Illinois, May 1996- April 1997," by Robert T. Kay and Aaron Trugestaad is published as U.S. Geological Survey Water-Resources Investigations Report 98-4087. Copies are available for inspection at the U.S. Geological Survey, 221 North Broadway Ave., Urbana, Illinois. Paper and microfiche copies can be purchased at cost from the U.S. Geological Survey-Information Services Section, Box 25286, Federal Center, Denver, Colorado 80225-0046 (telephone (303) 202-4700). Orders must include check or money order payable to the U.S. Department of the Interior-USGS and must specify report number WRIR 98-4087.