Refining Techniques for High-Frequency Monitoring of Chlorophyll in the NERRS - NERRS/NSC(NERRS Science Collaborative)

Twelve biogeochemically diverse reserves participated in a one -year study to standardize protocols for calibration and data management using both chlorophyll methods (extractions and in situ sensor readings) at various frequencies. Given technician experiences with preliminary sensor deployments and results from previous studies, one objective of this project was to identify possible sensor interferences and develop standardized empirical correction procedures. Another objective of this project was to test how well extracted CHL-A (micrograms/L) could be predicted from the suite of YSI EXO sensors. While there is value in the YSI EXO Total Algae (TAL) sensor's relative fluorescence units (RFU) for short-term or single-site chlorophyll measurements, reliable predictions of extracted CHL-A (micrograms/L) would provide a standard measure to compare among sites and with historic data.

Concentrations of the photosynthetic pigment chlorophyll a are used as a proxy for phytoplankton biomass by estuarine scientists and managers to study eutrophication, food web dynamics, and harmful algal blooms. Traditionally, chlorophyll has been measured by filtering a water sample and extracting pigments from the filter in a laboratory, which is the current practice employed by the NERRS in monthly grab samples; however, monthly measurements are not sufficient for tracking plankton dynamics, which fluctuate hourly. Recent sensor technology development allows high-frequency, in situ measurement of chlorophyll on the same YSI EXO sondes used in the NERRS System-Wide Monitoring Program (SWMP). While in situ measurements are related to extracted measurements, there are variations in the environment that cause inconsistencies. Before this project, no tested relationships existed for the EXO sensors, and SWMP practitioners were asking for this information so they can respond to local and national needs for algal bloom research.

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Project lead and contact information:

Nikki Dix, Guana Tolomato Matanzas NERR, 904-380-8613, nikki.dix@dep.state.fl.us

Erik Smith, North Inlet Winyah Bay NERR, erik@baruch.sc.edu

Silas Tanner, GTM NERR, Silas.Tanner@dep.state.fl.us

==About the data

6 related datasets are described in this document:

1. Combined field- and lab-based comparison data collected by participating reserves

2. Monitoring data using different methods from three reserves

3. Interference test results from seven reserves

4. Metadata for sampling details at participating reserves, e.g, site location, protocols

5. Chlorophyll comparison data files from individual reserves

6. Raw files from participating reserves

The distributor does not assume liability.

None

Cite this dataset when used as a source: NOAA retains the right to analyze, synthesize and publish summaries of the NERRS/NSC data. The NERRS/NSC retains the right to be fully credited for having collected and process the data. Following academic courtesy standards, the NERR site where the data were collected should be contacted and fully acknowledged in any subsequent publications in which any part of the data are used. The data enclosed within this package/transmission are only as accurate as the quality assurance and quality control procedures that are described in the associated metadata reporting statement allow. The user bears all responsibility for its subsequent use/misuse in any further analyses or comparisons. The Federal government does not assume liability to the Recipient or third persons, nor will the Federal government reimburse or indemnify the Recipient for its liability due to any losses resulting in any way from the use of this data. Requested citation format: NOAA National Estuarine Research Reserve System (NERRS) Science Collaborative(NSC).

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This information is detailed within the project links.

This information is detailed within the project links.