Author(s)

S.B. Mitchell

Abstract

Sections of the densely populated southern and eastern English coasts are characterised by a sequence of semi-enclosed macrotidal lagoons. Periodic release of nutrients (nitrate/phosphate) from sewage treatment plants and agriculture into these areas has caused concern to environmental managers in terms of possible eutrophication problems and excessive growth of macrophytic algae (enteromorpha/ ulva). It is therefore important to investigate the patterns of distribution of nutrients within these lagoons in order that this effect may be better predicted and mitigation measures undertaken. Results of nitrate and phosphate concentrations are shown, measured both over individual tidal cycles and over longer term deployments at Pagham Harbour, West Sussex, UK, a site of great importance as a nature reserve and a home for several rare species of plants and animals. In particular, the effects of fresh water-

Keywords