Theses and Dissertations

ORCID

https://orcid.org/0000-0002-5318-1453

Issuing Body

Mississippi State University

Advisor

Ramirez-Avila, John J.

Committee Member

Schauwecker, Timothy

Committee Member

Lynn, Thomas J.

Date of Degree

12-8-2023

Original embargo terms

Campus Access Only 1 Year

Document Type

Graduate Thesis - Campus Access Only

Major

Civil and Environmental Engineering

Degree Name

Master of Science (M.S.)

College

James Worth Bagley College of Engineering

Department

Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering

Abstract

This study evaluates the spatial and temporal impacts of implemented Best Management Practices (BMP) on stream water quality under baseflow conditions in a stream segment affected by livestock production. The BMPs includes 10-m fenced riparian zone and crossing paths along the reach segment. Grab water samples and water quality monitoring were collected biweekly from July 2019 to March 2022. Water quality parameters included temperature, dissolved oxygen, electric conductance, total dissolved solids, turbidity, and pH. Water samples were lab analyzed for sediments and nutrients. Results evidenced poor water quality before BMPs implementation, with nutrient concentrations exceeding the nation's and state's criteria. Two years after implementation, BMPs favored seasonal and spatial reductions in nutrient, sediment concentrations, and improved water quality parameters. Present results and subsequent stream monitoring should create awareness in private owners to extend the implementation of a riparian zone and other BMPs that improves stream water quality and health.

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