Nitrite plus Nitrate

The map shows status and trends at four stations in the Lower Patuxent River for nitrite (NO2-) and nitrite plus nitrate (NO2- + NO3-) fluxes (observed data).

Nitrite plus Nitrate (NO2- + NO3-)
The current status (average of 1996-1998 data) of nitrite plus nitrate fluxes at the four SONE stations in the Patuxent River is indicated above.  Ideally, we want to see high NO2- + NO3- fluxes for two reasons: (1) High fluxes mean that NH4+ continues to evolve and (2) DO is required for this process to occur, therefore there must be plenty of DO present. Among the four SONE stations in the Patuxent River, St. Leonard Creek (STLC) was considered good. Buena Vista (BUVA), Broomes Island (BRIS) and Marsh Point (MRPT) were found to be poor. Nitrite plus Nitrate is part of the nitrification process that helps restore estuarine systems.
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map of nitrite plus nitrate

map
legend "Good” areas are not necessarily of the quality needed by living resources.
*Status is relative to other similar areas in the Bay.
**Trends are significant at p < 0.01.

For more information, please contact Renee Karrh at (410) 260-8628.

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