Modeling phosphorus flux in the sediments of Onondaga Lake: Insights on the timing of lake response and recovery

The model was then applied in the prediction of the sediment response to changes in the phosphorus content of sedimenting particulate matter, changes which would accompany reductions in external phosphorus loads to the lake. It is demonstrated that steady state rates of sediment phosphorus release, i.e. those in equilibrium with newly established rates of labile particulate phosphorus deposition, are achieved over a period of 19-26 years. These findings have important implications with respect to the natural recovery of eutrophic systems and will assist water quality managers in developing appropriate public expectations for the timing of lake restoration.