US Long-Term Ecological Research Network

North Temperate Lakes LTER: Groundwater Chemistry 1984 - current

Abstract
Water chemistry is measured annually in 11 monitoring wells to characterize regional groundwater chemistry in the Trout Lake area. The chemical parameters measured include pH, conductivity, total alkalinity, dissolved inorganic and organic carbon, total nitrogen, nitrate, ammonia, total phosphorus, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, chloride, sulfate, iron, manganese, total silica and dissolved reactive silica. Chemical data are available at a quarterly sampling frequency for some years. In addition (see related data set - Groundwater Level), water levels in 37 monitoring wells are measured several times per year. The wells are scattered throughout the Trout Lake hydrological basin and the data are used to calibrate and test regional groundwater flow models. Sampling Frequency: annually - with some earlier data from quarterly sampling Number of sites: 11
Dataset ID
10
Date Range
-
Maintenance
ongoing
Metadata Provider
Methods
Ammonium, Nitrate, Nitrit Samples for ammonium and nitrate or nitrite are collected together with a peristaltic pump and tubing and in-line filtered (through a 0.40 micron polycarbonate filter) into new, 20 ml HDPE plastic containers with conical caps. The samples are stored frozen until analysis, which should occur within 6 months. The samples are analyzed for ammonium (and nitrateornitrite) simultaneously by automated colorimetric spectrophotometry, using a segmented flow autoanalyzer. Ammonium is determined by utilizing the Berthelot Reaction, producing a blue colored indophenol compound, where the absorption is monitored at 660 nm. The detection limit for ammonium is approximately 3 ppb and the analytical range for the method extends to 4000 ppb. The detection limit for nitrateornitrite is approximately 2 ppb and the analytical range for the method extends to 4000 ppb. Method Log: Prior to January 2006 samples, ammonium was determined on a Technicon segmented flow autoanalyzer. From 2006 to present, ammonium is determined by an Astoria-Pacific Astoria II segmented flow autoanalyzer. Chloride, Sulfate Samples for chloride and sulfate are collected together with a peristaltic pump and tubing and in-line filtered (through a 0.40 micron polycarbonate filter) into new, 20 ml HDPE plastic containers with conical caps. The samples are stored refrigerated at 4 degrees Celsius until analysis, which should occur within 6 months. The samples are analyzed for chloride (and sulfate) simultaneously by Ion Chromatography, using a hydroxide eluent. The detection limit for chloride is approximately 0.01 ppm and the analytical range for the method extends to 100 ppm. The detection limit for sulfate is approximately 0.01 ppm and the analytical range for the method extends to 60 ppm. Method Log: Prior to January 1998 samples, chloride was determined on a Dionex DX10 Ion Chromatograph, using a chemical fiber suppressor. From 1998 to 2011, chloride was determined by a Dionex model DX500, using an electro-chemical suppressor. From January 2011 until present, chloride is determined by a Dionex model ICS 2100 using an electro-chemical suppressor. Calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, iron, and manganese Samples for calcium analysis (as well as dissolved nitrogen and phosphorus, magnesium, sodium, potassium, iron, and manganese) are collected together with a peristaltic pump and tubing and in-line filtered (through a 40 micron polycarbonate filter) into 120 ml LDPE bottles and acidified to a 1percent HCl matrix by adding 1 ml of ultra pure concentrated HCl to 100 mls of sample. For every sample acidification event, three acid blanks are created by adding the same acid used on the samples to 100 mls of ultra pure water supplied from the lab. Once acidified, the samples are stable at room temperature until analysis, which should occur within one year. Until acidification, the samples should be refrigerated at 4 degrees Celsius. Calcium, as well as magnesium, sodium, potassium, iron, and manganese are analyzed simultaneously on an optical inductively-coupled plasma emission spectrophotometer (ICP-OES). The acidified samples are directly aspirated into the instrument without a digestion. Calcium is analyzed at 317.933 nm and at 315.887 nm and viewed axially for low-level analysis and radially for high level analysis. The detection limit for calcium is 0.06 ppm with an analytical range of the method extends to 50 ppm. The detection limit for iron is 0.02 ppm with an analytical range of the method extends to 20 ppm. The detection limit for magnesium is 0.03 ppm with an analytical range of the method extends to 50 ppm. The detection limit for manganese is 0.01 ppm with an analytical range of the method extends to 2 ppm. The detection limit for potassium is 0.06 ppm with an analytical range of the method extends to 10 ppm. The detection limit for sodium is 0.06 ppm with an analytical range of the method extends to 50 ppm. Method Log: Prior to January 2002, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, iron, and manganese were determined on a Perkin-Elmer model 503 Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Lanthanum at a 0.8percent concentration was added as a matrix modifier to suppress chemical interferences. From January 2002 to present, samples are analyzed for calcium on a Perkin-Elmer model 4300 DV ICP. Inorganic and organic carbon Samples for inorganic and organic carbon are collected together with a peristaltic pump and tubing and in-line filtered, if necessary, (through a 0.40 micron polycarbonate filter) into glass, 24 ml vials (that are compatible with the carbon analyzer autosampler), and capped with septa, leaving no head space. The samples are stored refrigerated at 4 degrees Celsius until analysis, which should occur within 2-3 weeks. The detection limit for inorganic carbon is 0.15 ppm, and the analytical range for the method is 60 ppm. The detection limit for organic carbon is 0.30 ppm and the analytical range for the method is 30 ppm. Method Log: Prior to May 2006 samples, inorganic carbon was analyzed by phosphoric acid addition on an OI Model 700 Carbon Analyzer. From May 2006 to present, inorganic carbon is still analyzed by phosphoric acid addition, but on a Shimadzu TOC-V-csh Total Organic Carbon Analyzer. Method Log: Prior to May 2006 samples, organic carbon was analyzed by heated persulfate digestion on an OI Model 700 Carbon Analyzer. From May 2006 to present, Organic carbon is analyzed by combustion, on a Shimadzu TOC-V-csh Total Organic Carbon Analyzer. Dissolved reactive silicon Samples for silicon are collected with a peristaltic pump and tubing and in-line filtered (through a 40 micron polycarbonate filter) into 120 ml LDPE bottles and acidified to a 1percent HCl matrix by adding 1 ml of ultra pure concentrated HCl to 100 mls of sample. For every sample acidification event, three acid blanks are created by adding the same acid used on the samples to 100 mls of ultra pure water supplied from the lab. Once acidified, the samples are stable at room temperature until analysis, which should occur within one year. Until acidification, the samples should be refrigerated at 4 degrees Celsius. Dissolved reactive silica is determined by the Heteropoly Blue Method and the absorption is measured at 820 nm. The detection limit for silicon is 6 ppb and the analytical range is 15000 ppb. Method Log These determinations were performed manually using a Bausch and Lomb Spectrophotometer from the beginning of the project until April 1984. From 1984 through 2005, dissolved reactive silicon was determined on a Technicon Auto Analyzer II. From January 2006 to present, samples are run on an Astoria-Pacific Astoria II Autoanalyzer. total and dissolved nitrogen and phosphorus Samples for total and dissolved nitrogen and phosphorus analysis are collected together with a peristaltic pump and tubing and in-line filtered, when necessary, (through a 40 micron polycarbonate filter) into 120 ml LDPE bottles and acidified to a 1percent HCl matrix by adding 1 mL of ultra pure concentrated HCl to 100 mls of sample. For every sample acidification event, three acid blanks are created by adding the same acid used on the samples to 100 mls of ultra pure water supplied from the lab. Once acidified, the samples are stable at room temperature until analysis, which should occur within one year. Until acidification, the samples should be refrigerated at 4 degrees Celsius. The samples must first be prepared for analysis by adding an NaOH–Persulfate digestion reagent and heated for an hour at 120 degrees C and 18-20 psi in an autoclave. The samples are analyzed for total nitrogen and total phosphorus simultaneously by automated colorimetric spectrophotometry, using a segmented flow autoanalyzer. Total nitrogen is determined by utilizing the automated cadmium reduction method, as described in Standard Methods, where the absorption is monitored at 520 nm. The detection limit for total and dissolved nitrogen is approximately 21 ppb and the analytical range for the method extends to 2500 ppb. The detection limit for total phosphorus is approximately 3 ppb and the analytical range for the method extends to 800 ppb. Method Log: Prior to January 2006 samples, total nitrogen was determined on a Technicon segmented flow autoanalyzer. From 2006 to present, total nitrogen is determined by an Astoria-Pacific Astoria II segmented flow autoanalyzer. pH We sample at the deepest part of the lake using a peristaltic pump and tubing, monthly during open water and approximately every five weeks during ice cover. We collect two types of pH samples at each sampling depth: one in 20ml vials with cone cap inserts to exclude all air from the vial, and one in 125ml bottles to be air equilibrated before analysis. The depths for sample collection are based on thermal stratification: top and bottom of the epilimnion, mid thermocline, and top, middle,and bottom of the hypolimnion. During mixis we sample at the surface, mid water column, and bottom. We analyze for pH the same day that samples are collected, keeping them cold and dark until just before analysis. Samples are warmed to room temperature in a dark container, and the air equilibrated samples are bubbled with outside air for at least 15 minutes prior to measurement. We measure pH using a Radiometer combination pH electrode and Orion 4Star pH meter. Protocol Log: 1981-1988 -- used a PHM84 Research pH meter. 1986 -- began analyzing air equilibrated pH. 1988 - July 2010 -- used an Orion model 720 pH meter.</p>
Short Name
NTLGW02
Version Number
23

North Temperate Lakes LTER: Chemical Limnology of Primary Study Lakes: Major Ions 1981 - current

Abstract
Parameters characterizing the major ions of the eleven primary lakes (Allequash, Big Muskellunge, Crystal, Sparkling, Trout, bog lakes 27-02 [Crystal Bog], and 12-15 [Trout Bog], Mendota, Monona, Wingra and Fish) are measured at one station in the deepest part of each lake at the top and bottom of the epilimnion, mid-thermocline, and top, middle, and bottom of the hypolimnion. These parameters include chloride, sulfate, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, iron, manganese, and specific conductance (northern lakes only). Sampling Frequency: quarterly (winter, spring and fall mixis, and summer stratified periods) Number of sites: 11
Core Areas
Dataset ID
2
Date Range
-
Maintenance
ongoing
Metadata Provider
Methods
Chloride, Sulfate Samples for chloride and sulfate are collected together with a peristaltic pump and tubing and in-line filtered (through a 0.40 micron polycarbonate filter) into new, 20 ml HDPE plastic containers with conical caps. The samples are stored refrigerated at 4 degrees Celsius until analysis, which should occur within 6 months. The samples are analyzed for chloride (and sulfate) simultaneously by Ion Chromatography, using a hydroxide eluent. The detection limit for chloride is approximately 0.01 ppm and the analytical range for the method extends to 100 ppm. The detection limit for sulfate is approximately 0.01 ppm and the analytical range for the method extends to 60 ppm. Method Log: Prior to January 1998 samples, chloride was determined on a Dionex DX10 Ion Chromatograph, using a chemical fiber suppressor. From 1998 to 2011, chloride was determined by a Dionex model DX500, using an electro-chemical suppressor. From January 2011 until present, chloride is determined by a Dionex model ICS 2100 using an electro-chemical suppressor.
Short Name
NTLCH02
Version Number
37

Little Rock Lake Experiment at North Temperate Lakes LTER: Major Ions 1996 - 2000

Abstract
The Little Rock Acidification Experiment was a joint project involving the USEPA (Duluth Lab), University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, University of Wisconsin-Superior, University of Wisconsin-Madison, and the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources. Little Rock Lake is a bi-lobed lake in Vilas County, Wisconsin, USA. In 1983 the lake was divided in half by an impermeable curtain and from 1984-1989 the northern basin of the lake was acidified with sulfuric acid in three two-year stages. The target pHs for 1984-5, 1986-7, and 1988-9 were 5.7, 5.2, and 4.7, respectively. Starting in 1990 the lake was allowed to recover naturally with the curtain still in place. Data were collected through 2000. The main objective was to understand the population, community, and ecosystem responses to whole-lake acidification. Funding for this project was provided by the USEPA and NSF. Parameters characterizing the major ions of the treatment and reference basins of Little Rock Lake are measured at one station in the deepest part of each basin at the top and bottom of the epilimnion, mid-thermocline, and top, middle, and bottom of the hypolimnion. These parameters include chloride, sulfate, calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, iron, and manganese Sampling Frequency: varies - Number of sites: 2
Core Areas
Dataset ID
247
Date Range
-
Maintenance
completed
Metadata Provider
Methods
Chloride, SulfateSamples for chloride and sulfate are collected together with a peristaltic pump and tubing and in-line filtered (through a 0.40 micron polycarbonate filter) into new, 20 ml HDPE plastic containers with conical caps. The samples are stored refrigerated at 4 degrees Celsius until analysis, which should occur within 6 months. The samples are analyzed for chloride (and sulfate) simultaneously by Ion Chromatography, using a hydroxide eluent.The detection limit for chloride is approximately 0.01 ppm and the analytical range for the method extends to 100 ppm.The detection limit for sulfate is approximately 0.01 ppm and the analytical range for the method extends to 60 ppm.Method Log: Prior to January 1998 samples, chloride was determined on a Dionex DX10 Ion Chromatograph, using a chemical fiber suppressor. From 1998 to 2011, chloride was determined by a Dionex model DX500, using an electro-chemical suppressor. From January 2011 until present, chloride is determined by a Dionex model ICS 2100 using an electro-chemical suppressor.
Short Name
LRMAJION1
Version Number
4

North Temperate Lakes LTER: Northern Highlands Stream Chemistry Survey 2006

Abstract
We compared regional patterns in lake and stream biogeochemistry in the Northern Highlands Lake District (NHLD), Wisconsin, USA to ask how regional biogeochemistry differs as a function of the type of ecosystem considered (i.e., lakes versus streams); if lake-stream comparisons reveal regional patterns and processes that are not apparent from studies of a single ecosystem type; and if characteristics of streams and lakes scale similarly. Fifty-two streams were sampled using a stratified random design to determine regional distribution of 21 water chemistry variables during summer baseflow conditions.Sampling Frequency: once per site Number of sites: 52
Contact
Core Areas
Dataset ID
254
Date Range
-
Maintenance
completed
Metadata Provider
Methods
Site SelectionBecause lakes are a dominant feature of the region and stream characteristics could potentially differ based on their hydrologic connections to lakes, we classified streams into three categories as a function of their hydrologic connections to lakes. The first category was streams that had no lakes within the drainage network upstream of the sampling location. The second category was streams that originated from headwater lakes (i.e., no stream inlet but a stream outlet) and the headwater lake was the only lake in the drainage network above the sampling location. The final category had at least a single drainage lake (i.e., a lake with both stream inlet(s) and outlet) in the drainage network above the sampling location. We then used these categories to select sampling sites using a stratified random design for a variety of chemical and physical characteristics.All streams identified on 1:24,000 7.5 inch USGS topographical maps that crossed access points were selected as potential sampling locations and assigned to one of the three stream types. A stream could be classified by more than a single category depending on the sampling location within the drainage network. However, a single drainage network was never sampled more than once to ensure sample independence. Of the 500 possible sampling locations, 52 sites were selected and sampled.SamplingAll streams were sampled 7-10 channel widths upstream of an access point to minimize any influences caused by culverts and other features. Water samples were collected from the center of the channel using a peristaltic pump. Stream discharge was measured after Gore (2007) using cross sectional area and water velocity.Chemical AnalysesAll samples for both studies were collected and processed following the North Temperate Long Term Ecological Research (NTL-LTER) protocols (http://lter.limnology.wisc.edu). Filtering was done in the field using an in-line 0.45 μm membrane filter. All samples were stored on ice and returned to the laboratory where they were preserved according to NTL-LTER protocols. Acid neutralizing capacity (ANC) was determined by Gran titration (APHA 2005). DOC was measured on a Shimadzu TOC-V carbon analyzer. Total nitrogen and phosphorus (unfiltered, TN and TP; filtered, TDN and TDP), nitrate+nitrite (NO3-N), and ammonium (NH4-N) were quantified with an Astoria-Pacific segmented flow auto-analyzer. Soluble reactive phosphorus (SRP) in streams was measured colormetrically on a Beckman DU-800 spectrophotometer (APHA 2005). Anions (Cl- and SO4 2-) were measured using a Dionix DX-500 ion chromatograph and cations (Ca, Mg, Na, K, Fe, K, and Mn) on a Perkin Elmer ICP mass spectrometerDissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) and pH were quantified differently in the lakes and stream data sets. For the lakes data, DIC was determined with a Shimadzu TOC-V carbon analyzer, whereas DIC for the streams dataset was determined by headspace equilibration of acidified water samples in the field and direct measurement of carbon dioxide (CO2) gas on a Shimadzu gas chromatograph (Cole et al. 1994). pH measurements for the lakes dataset were quantified on non-air equilibrated samples in the lab with a Accumet 950 pH meter while direct measurements were taken in the field for the streams dataset using a hand-held Orion model 266 pH meter that was allowed to equilibrated about 20 min in the center for the stream channel.Several variables presented in this study were determined from calculations based on measured values. In streams, dissolved organic nitrogen and phosphorus (DON and DOP, respectively) were determined by the difference between inorganic nutrients and total dissolved nutrients (e.g., DOP = TDP-SRP). We were unable to determine DON in lakes due to the lack of inorganic nitrogen data. It was assumed that DOP approximately equals TDP in lakes because dissolved inorganic phosphorus concentrations in the region are typically below detection limits in the epilimnion during the summer months and consequently not quantified (NTL-LTER unpublished data).
Short Name
LOTTIG2
Version Number
19

Landscape Position Project at North Temperate Lakes LTER: Chemical Limnology 1998 - 2000

Abstract
Parameters characterizing the chemical limnology and spatial attributes of 51 lakes were surveyed as part of the Landscape Position Project. Parameters are measured at or close to the deepest part of the lake. The following parameters are measured one meter from the surface and two meters from the bottom of the lake: pH, total phosphorus, total nitrogen, total silica. The following parameters are measured one meter from the surface: dissolved organic carbon, total organic carbon, dissolved inorganic carbon, total inorganic carbon, spectrophotometric absorbance (color scan), major anions and cations, alkalinity. Sampling Frequency: once for conservative parameters (major ions, carbon, color, alkalinity); monthly for one summer for other parameters (chlorophyll, nitrogen, phosphorus, pH, silica, temperature, dissolved oxygen, and conductivity) Number of sites: 51Allequash Lake, Anderson Lake, Arrowhead Lake, Beaver Lake, Big Lake, Big Crooked Lake, Big Gibson Lake, Big Muskellunge Lake, Boulder Lake, Brandy Lake, Crampton Lake, Crystal Lake, Diamond Lake, Flora Lake, Heart Lake, Ike Walton Lake, Island Lake, Johnson Lake, Katherine Lake, Kathleen Lake, Katinka Lake, Lehto Lake, Little Crooked Lake, Little Muskie, Little Spider Lake, Little Sugarbush Lake, Little Trout Lake, Lower Kaubeshine Lake, Lynx Lake, McCullough Lake, Mid Lake, Minocqua Lake, Muskesin Lake, Nixon Lake, Partridge Lake, Randall Lake, Round Lake, Sanford Lake, Sparkling Lake, Statenaker Lake, Stearns Lake, Tomahawk Lake, Trout Lake, Upper Kaubeshine Lake, Verna Lake, Ward Lake, White Birch Lake, White Sand Lake, Wild Rice Lake, Wildcat Lake, Wolf Lake, Vilas County, WI, Iron County, WI, Oneida County, WI, Gogebic County, MI, USA
Dataset ID
91
Date Range
-
Maintenance
completed
Metadata Provider
Methods
Chloride, SulfateSamples for chloride and sulfate are collected together with a peristaltic pump and tubing and in-line filtered (through a 0.40 micron polycarbonate filter) into new, 20 ml HDPE plastic containers with conical caps. The samples are stored refrigerated at 4 degrees Celsius until analysis, which should occur within 6 months. The samples are analyzed for chloride (and sulfate) simultaneously by Ion Chromatography, using a hydroxide eluent.The detection limit for chloride is approximately 0.01 ppm and the analytical range for the method extends to 100 ppm.The detection limit for sulfate is approximately 0.01 ppm and the analytical range for the method extends to 60 ppm.Method Log: Prior to January 1998 samples, chloride was determined on a Dionex DX10 Ion Chromatograph, using a chemical fiber suppressor. From 1998 to 2011, chloride was determined by a Dionex model DX500, using an electro-chemical suppressor. From January 2011 until present, chloride is determined by a Dionex model ICS 2100 using an electro-chemical suppressor.Calcium, silicon, magnesium, sodium, potassium, iron, and manganeseSamples for calcium analysis (as well as dissolved nitrogen and phosphorus, silicon, magnesium, sodium, potassium, iron, and manganese) are collected together with a peristaltic pump and tubing and in-line filtered (through a 40 micron polycarbonate filter) into 120 ml LDPE bottles and acidified to a 1percent HCl matrix by adding 1 ml of ultra pure concentrated HCl to 100 mls of sample. For every sample acidification event, three acid blanks are created by adding the same acid used on the samples to 100 mls of ultra pure water supplied from the lab. Once acidified, the samples are stable at room temperature until analysis, which should occur within one year. Until acidification, the samples should be refrigerated at 4 degrees Celsius.Calcium, as well as magnesium, sodium, potassium, iron, and manganese are analyzed simultaneously on an optical inductively-coupled plasma emission spectrophotometer (ICP-OES). The acidified samples are directly aspirated into the instrument without a digestion. Calcium is analyzed at 317.933 nm and at 315.887 nm and viewed axially for low-level analysis and radially for high level analysis.The detection limit for calcium is 0.06 ppm with an analytical range of the method extends to 50 ppm.The detection limit for iron is 0.02 ppm with an analytical range of the method extends to 20 ppm.The detection limit for magnesium is 0.03 ppm with an analytical range of the method extends to 50 ppm.The detection limit for manganese is 0.01 ppm with an analytical range of the method extends to 2 ppm.The detection limit for potassium is 0.06 ppm with an analytical range of the method extends to 10 ppm.The detection limit for sodium is 0.06 ppm with an analytical range of the method extends to 50 ppm.Method Log: Prior to January 2002, Calcium, magnesium, sodium, potassium, iron, and manganese were determined on a Perkin-Elmer model 503 Atomic Absorption Spectrophotometer. Lanthanum at a 0.8percent concentration was added as a matrix modifier to suppress chemical interferences. From January 2002 to present, samples are analyzed for calcium on a Perkin-Elmer model 4300 DV ICP.Dissolved reactive silica is determined by the Heteropoly Blue Method and the absorption is measured at 820 nm.The detection limit for silicon is 6 ppb and the analytical range is 15000 ppb.Method Log These determinations were performed manually using a Bausch and Lomb Spectrophotometer from the beginning of the project until April 1984. From 1984 through 2005, dissolved reactive silicon was determined on a Technicon Auto Analyzer II. From January 2006 to present, samples are run on an Astoria-Pacific Astoria II Autoanalyzer.
Short Name
LPPCHEM1
Version Number
9

Zooplankton of Small Lakes and Wetland Ponds in Wisconsin - North Temperate Lakes LTER 1996

Abstract
We sampled zooplankton communities from 54 small water bodies distributed throughout Wisconsin to evaluate whether a snap-shot of zooplankton community structure during early spring could be used for the purpose of differentiating lakes from wetlands. We collected a single set of zooplankton and water chemistry data during a one-month time window (synchronized from south to north across the state) from an open water site in each basin as a means to minimize and standardize sampling effort and to minimize cascading effects arising from predator-prey interactions with resident and immigrant aquatic insect communities. We identified 53 taxa of zooplankton from 54 sites sampled across Wisconsin. There was an average of 6.83 taxa per site. The zooplankton species were distributed with a great deal of independence. We did not detect significant correlations between number of taxa and geographic region or waterbody size. There was a significant inverse correlation between number of taxa and the concentration of calcium ion, alkalinity and conductivity. One pair of taxa, Lynceus brachyurus and Chaoborus americanus, showed a significant difference in average duration of sites of their respective occurrence. All other pairs of taxa had no significant difference in average latitude, waterbody surface area, total phosphorus, total Kjeldahl nitrogen, alkalinity, conductivity, calcium ion, sulfate, nitrate, silicate or chloride. Taxa were distributed at random among the sites - there were no statistically significant pairs of taxa occurring together or avoiding each other. Multivariate analysis of zooplankton associations showed no evidence of distinct associations that could be used to distinguish lakes from wetlands. Zooplankton community structure appears to be a poor tool for distinguishing between lakes and wetlands, especially at the relatively large scale of Wisconsin (dimension of about 500 km). The data suggest that a small body of water in Wisconsin could be classified as a wetland if it persists in the spring and summer for only about 4 months, and if it is inhabited by Lynceus brachyurus, Eubranchipus bundyi, and if Chaoborus americanus and Chydorus brevilabris are absent. Schell, Jeffery M., Carlos J. Santos-Flores, Paula E. Allen, Brian M. Hunker, Scott Kloehn, Aaron Michelson, Richard A. Lillie, and Stanley I. Dodson. 2001. Physical-chemical influences on vernal zooplankton community structure in small lakes and wetlands of Wisconsin, U.S.A. Hydrobiologia 445:37-50 Number of sites: 54
Creator
Dataset ID
224
Date Range
-
Maintenance
completed
Metadata Provider
Methods
Schell, Jeffery M., Carlos J. Santos-Flores, Paula E. Allen, Brian M. Hunker, Scott Kloehn, Aaron Michelson, Richard A. Lillie, and Stanley I. Dodson. 2001. Physical-chemical influences on vernal zooplankton community structure in small lakes and wetlands of Wisconsin, U.S.A. Hydrobiologia 445:37-50
Short Name
DODSON3
Version Number
25

North Temperate Lakes LTER: Patterns of Soil Phosphorus Across an Urbanizing Agricultural Landscape 2000 - 2001

Abstract
Understanding the magnitude and location of soil phosphorus (P) accumulation in watersheds is a critical step toward managing runoff of this pollutant to aquatic ecosystems. Here, we examined the usefulness of urban-rural gradients (URGs), an emerging paradigm in urban ecology, for predicting soil P concentrations across a rapidly urbanizing agricultural watershed in southern Wisconsin. We compared several measures of an urban-rural gradient to predictors of soil P such as soil type, slope, topography, land use, land cover, and fertilizer and manure use. Most of the factors that were expected to drive differences in soil P concentrations were not found to be good predictors of soil P; while there were several significant relationships, most explained only a small proportion of the variation. There was a significant relationship between soil P concentration and each of the urban-rural gradients, but these relationships explained only a small amount of the variation in soil P concentrations. Soil P concentration, unlike some other ecosystem properties, is not well predicted by urban-rural gradients Additional Chemical Analyses: These additional analyses were done to provide comparisons to Bray-1 P. Specifically, we wanted to know whether, in Dane County, there was a consistent relationship between total P and Bray-1 P. For sample sites on private property, specific site location information, such as GPS coordinates, is not included in these datasets. If you have a need for this information, please get in touch with the contact person listed above Number of sites: 334; 20 of these sites with additional chem analyses
Core Areas
Dataset ID
105
Date Range
-
Maintenance
completed
Metadata Provider
Methods
A combination map, consisting of the information in both the population density map and the modified-distance map, was also created (Figure 2c). This map is simply based on a grid cell by grid cell multiplication of the reclassified values from the population density and the modified distance map. In this paper, I will refer to this map as the combination map.Data points for measuring soil P and associated factors were stratified by zone and randomly located within each zone according to the combination map&mdash;with approximately 70 data points per zone. Location and address of each point were determined using the Madison and Dane County parcel GIS layers. Permission was requested from landowners to take a soil sample, and the precise location of the sample on the property was determined using standard randomizing techniques. If permission was denied (2 cases out of 330) or if there was no one present at the location, a coin toss was used to determine movement one parcel to the right or to the left along the same road. Landowners were also asked about their fertilizer use practices, manure use, dog ownership, and the date the house was built, if known.Approximately 400 soil samples were taken in the top soil horizon to a depth of 13.5 cm with a standard soil corer (diameter = approximately 1.6 cm). This depth was always within the surface horizon and any grass thatch was removed from lawn samples. Other data collected include percent slope, convex or concave nature of the slope, land use, land-cover type, and percent vegetative cover. The visually perceived zone was also recorded. The visually perceived zone was determined by visual inspection using a predetermined set of definitions of each zone. For example, urban sites were those with the highest housing density or some industrial use; suburban sites were those of moderate housing density and residential character; suburban fringe were newer residential developments of low housing density and larger houses; agricultural fringe were older residential developments of low density; and agricultural were those areas that were actively farmed. A handheld global positioning device was used to determine the precise (&plusmn; 1 m) location of the soil sample.Soil samples were stored for no more than 3 weeks at room temperature before analysis. They were then dried for 15&ndash;24 hours at 50&ndash;55degreeC and sieved (1.8-mm mesh). Soil samples were then analyzed for Bray-1 P at the University of Wisconsin Soil and Plant Analysis Lab. Bray-1, a measure of extractable P, is a commonly used measure of phosphorus available to plants in agricultural systems. While relationships between extractable soil P and dissolved P in runoff have been noted in some systems (Sharpley and others 1993, Sharpley 1995), these extractions were generally developed to estimate plant available P, not to reflect P storage in the soil or P runoff. Therefore, we tested a subset (60) of our samples for total P, a better measure of P storage in soils. A regression of our samples indicates a reasonably close relationship between Bray-1 P and total P in our study area soils (Figure 3), indicating that our Bray-1 P results are probably a satisfactory estimate of both extractable P and the sorbed P that tends to accumulate in agricultural soils.
Short Name
SOILPVC
Version Number
4

Historical Birge - Juday Lake Survey 1900 - 1943

Abstract
Data collected by Birge, Juday, and collaborators, mostly in north-central Wisconsin, from 1900 through 1943; generally one sampling event per lake during the summer, but on some lakes, especially around Trout Lake Station, several sampling events for several successive years. This data set contains both surface data (depth of zero) and multi-depth data. Note that not all variables were measured on all lakes. Documentation: Johnson, M.D. (1984) Documentation and quality assurance of the computer files of historical water chemistry data from the Wisconsin Northern Highland Lake District (the Birge and Juday data).Wisconsin DNR Technical Report. Note: Values of -99999 in water quality data indicate trace amount of parameter was present. Number of sites: 663 (generally one sampling point per lake; occasionally, several sampling points per lake on multibasin, large lakes). Note: This data set was updated in 2013 to include multi-depth and additional surface data for a large subset of lakes. These additions expanded the number of sites from 605 to 663, and expanded the date range from 1925-1942 to 1900-1943 . Furthermore, 14 lakes in Minnesota were added to the data set contributing additional surface and multi-depth data. Another dataset was added in 2013 collected by Wisconsin limnologists Chauncey Juday and Edward Birge, this data set contains variables that are still commonly used in research. For example, temperature, dissolved carbon dioxide, color, pH, secchi disk, plankton, and silica. However, the data set also includes variables that are not commonly used, for example, crude protein, non-amino nitrogen, ether extract, and total organic and inorganic material. These data are characteristic of water chemistry analysis from the time in which they were compiled (5/31/1915 - 8/29/1938). The data set features data from 586 different lakes, primarily lakes in the Northern Highland Lakes District of Wisconsin. However, there is also data from lakes in southeastern and southcentral Wisconsin. Furthermore, there is a minimal amount of data from lakes in Minnesota, Ohio,New York, Alaska, the Philippines, and the United Kingdom. Documentation:Birge, E.A., and Juday, C. 1922. The inland lakes of Wisconsin. The Plankton I. Its quantity and chemical composition. Bulletin, Wis. Geol. and Nat. Hist. Survey No. 64: (Scientific series 13), ix-222.
Core Areas
Dataset ID
106
Date Range
-
Maintenance
completed
Metadata Provider
Methods
Johnson, M.D. (1984) Documentation and quality assurance of the computer files of historical water chemistry data from the Wisconsin Northern Highland Lake District (the Birge and Juday data).Wisconsin DNR Technical Report.Methods not included in Johnson (1984):Nitrite Nitrogen- Sulphanilic acid procedure. Standard methods for the examination of water and sewage, Pub. Health Assn., New York, 5th edition, 1923, 13. Other Documentation: Domogalla, B.P., Juday, C., and Peterson, W.H. 1925. The forms of nitrogen found in certain lake waters. Jour. Biol. Chem. 63: 269-285.Ferric Ion- First calculated by subtracting ferrous ion from total iron measurements. Standard methods of water analysis. 1936. Amer. Pub. Health Assoc. P. 309. New York. Procedure was modified to determine ferric ion by acidifying samples by adding 1 milliliter of 3 N HCL to 50mL of lake water. With the iron samples in readiness, add 5 ml of the thiocyanate solution to the sample and to the standards, mix and compare immediately. (Standard Methods, Amer. Public Health Assoc. 8th ed., p. 75, 1936). Other documentation: Domogalla, B.P., Juday, C., and Peterson, W.H. 1925. The forms of nitrogen found in certain lake waters. Jour. Biol. Chem. 63: 269-285.Ferrous Ion- First calculated by ferricyanide method. Procedure was modified to determine ferrous ion by subtracting ferric ion from total iron. Documentation: Domogalla, B.P., Juday, C., and Peterson, W.H. 1925. The forms of nitrogen found in certain lake waters. Jour. Biol. Chem. 63: 269-285.Manganese- Determined by the persulfate method using the procedure described in Standard Methods of Water Analysis, Amer. Public Health Assoc., p. 84, 1936.Chlorophyll-a- A photometric method was used, in which the color of the light was confined to the wave-length 6200-6800 A which are absorbed by chlorophyll. Water samples of 5 to 15 liters (18 liters in the case of very low plankton content) were taken from different depths by using a hand operated vacuum pump), the water was the centrifuged at 25,000 rpm (for about 30 minutes). Residue was then washed with 98percent acetone, and CaCO3 was added to neutralize organic acids. This residue-acetone mixture was ground to extract the chlorophyll. The acetone extract was then filtered through filter paper into a flask, the residue being thoroughly washed with pure acetone. The light absorption of the extract was then measured. Procedure was carried out in a single day, under minimal light. Documentation: Kemmerer, G.I., and Hallett, L.T. 1938. Amount and distribution of the chlorophyll in some lakes of northeastern Wisconsin. Trans. Wisconsin Acad. Sci. 31: 411-438.Phosphate- Ceruleomolybdic method employed. Documentation: Juday, C., Birge, E.A., Kemmerer, G.I., Robinson, R.J. 1927. Phosphorus content of lake waters of northeastern Wisconsin. Trans. Wisconsin. Acad. Sci. 23: 233-248. Other Documentation: Robinson, R.J., Kemmerer, G.I. 1930. Determination of organic phosphorus in lake waters. Trans. Wisconsin. Acad. Sci. 25: 117-121.Redox Potential- Determined in situ on a given sampling date by use of a bright platinum electrode. Eh readings were made in millivolts. Documentation: Allgeier, R.J., Hafford, B.C., and Juday, C. 1941. Oxidation-reduction potentials and pH of lake waters and lake sediments. Trans. Wisconsin Acad. Sci. 33: 115-133.Note: The methodology used to determine copper, alumnium, boron, and hydrogen sulfide could not be determined.
Short Name
RGBIJD
Version Number
7

EPA Eastern Lake Survey original data for the Upper Midwest Region 1984

Abstract
Overton, W. S., P. Kanciruk, L. A. Hook, J. M. Eilers, D. H. Landers, D. F. BRAKKE, R. A. Linthurst, and M. D. DeHaan. 1986. Characteristics of lakes in the Eastern United States. Vol. 2. Lakes sampled and descriptive statistics for physical and chemical variables. US EPA 600/4-86/007B. 369 p. The Eastern Lake Survey-Phase I (ELS-I), conducted in the fall of 1984, was the first part of a long-term effort by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency known as the National Surface Water Survey. It was designed to synoptically quantify the acid-base status of surface waters in the United States in areas expected to exhibit low buffering capacity. The effort was in support of the National Acid Precipitation Assessment Program (NAPAP). The survey involved a three-month field effort in which 1612 probability sample lakes and 186 special interest lakes in the northeast, southeast, and upper midwest regions of the United States were sampled. This dataset includes data on 592 lakes in Michigan, Minnesota and Wisconsin. Number of sites: 592
Core Areas
Creator
Dataset ID
107
Date Range
-
Maintenance
completed
Metadata Provider
Methods
please see methods description in abstract
Short Name
RGELS
Version Number
4

Environmental Research Lab-Duluth Chemical Lake Survey 1979 - 1982

Abstract
Chemical survey of 832 lakes in Minnesota, Michigan, Wisconsin and Ontario conducted by ERL-Duluth and UMD between 1979 and 1982 for evaluation of trophic state and sensitivity to acid deposition Glass, G.E. and Sorenson, J.A. (1994) USEPA ERLD-UMD acid deposition gradient-susceptibility database. U.S. EPA Environmental Research Laboratory - Duluth and University of Minnesota at Duluth, MN. Number of sites: 856 within 832 lakes
Core Areas
Dataset ID
101
Date Range
-
Maintenance
completed
Metadata Provider
Methods
Methods are published in Glass, G.E. and Sorenson, J.A. (1994) USEPA ERLD-UMD acid deposition gradient-susceptibility database. U.S. EPA Environmental Research Laboratory - Duluth and University of Minnesota at Duluth, MN.
Short Name
RGERLD
Version Number
6
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