Three of the seven water quality monitoring stations
had decreased TKN and TN concentrations
due to the diversion. One reason for this behavior
could be simple dilution due to the addition of
river water, which has lower concentrations of TKN
than the receiving estuary. The estuary was acting
as a source for TKN, especially during summer.
This was most likely the result of higher primary
production associated with increased nutrient input,
along with an increased microbial community
due to detritus availability, both of which are highest
during the summer.