Factors Contributing to the Growth of Nuisance Biofilm in Two Tributaries of Lake Erie

Session: 34. - Aquatic Habitat Evaluation and Assessment

Yakuta Bhagat, EnviroScience, [email protected]
Paul Anderson, EnviroScience Inc., [email protected]
Beau Williams, Cleveland Airport System, [email protected]

Abstract

The formation of nuisance biofilm in small rivers and streams has been attributed to various anthropogenic pollution sources including effluents from aircraft deicing operations at commercial airports. Propylene glycol, sodium formate and potassium acetate are the primary chemical deicing compounds of interest and together have been hypothesized to contribute to higher biological activity and oxygen consumption, resulting in growth and spread of biofilm on stream substrates. To determine the influence of deicing effluents on biofilm growth in two Lake Erie tributaries, Rocky River and Abram Creek, we conducted extensive water chemistry and biological sampling at ten stream sites and nine outfalls near Cleveland Hopkins International Airport (CLE) in 2014-2017. Water chemistry samples were analyzed for 43 parameters including deicing compounds, oxygen demand and nutrients. Quantitative biofilm samples were analyzed for chlorophyll a, total and enhanced total ATP, ash-free dry weight, and typology and abundance of fungi, heterotrophic aerobic bacteria, diatoms and soft algae. Statistical and qualitative analyses comparing sites located upstream and downstream of the CLE’s influence were used to determine the driving factors behind the growth of nuisance biofilm. Underlying ecological implications will be discussed in the context of sustainability of benthic invertebrate and fish communities inhabiting the tributaries.

1. Keyword
biofilm

2. Keyword
Lake Erie

3. Keyword
water quality

4. Additional Keyword
anthropogenic

5. Additional Keyword
streams

6. Additional Keyword
nuisance