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Project Code [2017-W-PhD-10]

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Project title

Groundwater nutrient discharges and bloom dynamics in semi-enclosed bays on the west coast of Ireland

Primary Funding Agency

Irish Research Council

Co-Funding Organisation(s)

Environmental Protection Agency

Lead Organisation

National University of Ireland Galway (NUIG)

Lead Applicant

Clynton Gregory

Project Abstract

The concept of runoff enriched in nutrients from agriculture, sewage and industrial waste leading to eutrophication is well understood in general terms. However to date almost all of the research on coastal waters has concentrated on point sources and/or riverine inputs. Many coastal zones worldwide are influenced by groundwater inputs, which are frequently enriched in nutrients. Globally, coastal inlets and estuarine zones support shellfish aquaculture, which is adversely affected by harmful algal blooms (HABs) The aim of this project is to investigate the role of nutrient-enriched groundwater discharge into coastal waters in promoting localised blooms of phytoplankton, specifically those linked to harmful algal blooms (HABs), in semi enclosed bays. The objectives of this project are therefore: 1. To quantify nutrient inputs into selected semi enclosed bays through groundwater discharges. 2. To compare water chemistry in groundwater-influenced bays with neighbouring bays without groundwater influence 3. To determine the effect of groundwater discharges on phytoplankton dynamics in the bays 4. To determine the influence of groundwater inputs on the dynamics of harmful algal blooms (HABs) in the bays .

Grant Approved

�32,000.00

Research Hub

Natural Environment

Research Theme

Improve our Knowledge on the State of our Water Resources and Pressures

Start Date

04/01/2016

Initial Projected Completion Date

03/01/2020