Monitoring plant tissue nitrogen isotopes to assess nearshore inputs of nitrogen to Lake Crescent, Olympic National Park, Washington

Researchers found that nearshore inputs significantly contribute to nitrogen levels in Lake Crescent, Olympic National Park. By analyzing nitrogen isotopes in plant tissues, the study revealed distinct signatures of terrestrial and aquatic nitrogen sources, highlighting the importance of understanding nutrient dynamics in protected ecosystems. The approach involved sampling plant tissues along the lake's shoreline, measuring stable isotope ratios, and comparing them to known nitrogen sources. This method provides a novel way to track nitrogen inputs, offering insights crucial for managing water quality in pristine environments like Olympic National Park.

Cox, S. E., Moran, P. W., Huffman, R. L., & Fradkin, S. C. (2016). Monitoring plant tissue nitrogen isotopes to assess nearshore inputs of nitrogen to Lake Crescent, Olympic National Park, Washington. Scientific Investigations Report, 1–20. https://doi.org/10.3133/sir20165054