Modelling of phosphorus and suspended solids in Cootes Paradise marsh

A two-dimensional depth-averaged hydrodynamic/mass transport model was used to study the temporal and spatial distribution of the water quality parameters in Cootes Paradise marsh. The model predicted phosphorous concentrations reasonably well, both for an overall average of the entire marsh and for individual sites. Suspended solids were also simulated and the model accounted for contributions of particulate matter due to carp and due to wind resuspension of the bottom sediments. Both overall averages and site comparisons for suspended solids were comparable to field values. The effects of dry and wet conditions, carp, wind speed and critical shear stress for deposition and resuspension on the suspended solids concentration were studied. According to data generated by the computer model, carp and wind are contributing approximately one third each to the concentrations of suspended solids in Cootes Paradise.