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Modeling Phosphorus Dynamics in Ecosystems: Mass Balance and Dynamic Simulation Approaches
Author(s) -
Cassell E. A.,
Dorioz J. M.,
Kort R. L.,
Hoffmann J. P.,
Meals D. W.,
Kirschtel D.,
Braun D. C.
Publication year - 1998
Publication title -
journal of environmental quality
Language(s) - English
Resource type - Journals
SCImago Journal Rank - 0.888
H-Index - 171
eISSN - 1537-2537
pISSN - 0047-2425
DOI - 10.2134/jeq1998.00472425002700020007x
Subject(s) - ecosystem , environmental science , sustainability , agriculture , environmental resource management , watershed , system dynamics , eutrophication , conceptual model , ecosystem management , ecology , computer science , nutrient , database , machine learning , biology
Phosphorus (P) export from agriculture is a major cause of eutrophication in many lake ecosystems. Human activity, hydrology, and physicochemical and biological processes that store, transform, and transport P, define P export patterns over time and space. We suggest that an ecosystem paradigm is useful to holistically view P dynamics within complex watersheds. An ecosystem model of a dairy agricultural system was created within a hierarchical compartment‐flux structure of a conceptual watershed ecosystem. Mass balance calculations with our Agriculture Ecosystem model (AEP model) describe P dynamics for the farm system, which are driven by the amount of P stored in agricultural soils and system management practices. Longterm P dynamics respond predominately to human interventions in watersheds and define conditions for future generations. Model simulations suggest that long‐term environmental protection programs should incorporate the notions of P sustainability into management decisions. Dynamic simulation modeling is a valuable paradigm for understanding how complex watersheds process P and for developing management perspectives and public policy to achieve goals of environmental quality as well as economic and resource sustainability.