Strategy for management of lake-catchment system integrated with natural and anthropogenic factors in China

Lake eutrophication that has caused severe damages to aquatic ecosystems is a hot issue in the field of water pollution control, so analyzing its process and driving mechanism is of great significance. In this study, we detected its major driving factors based on an observed dataset and assessed the impacts of these factors. Firstly, empirical econometric models were used to ascertain the Per capita GDP and the percentage of impervious surface, which are significantly related with the eutrophication level. Eutrophication is slightly affected by anthropogenic disturbance, but is negatively related to the supply coefficient. Secondly, all driving factors are divided into two categories, including the stresses caused by human activities and the comprehensive health status, which are expressed as the two coordinate axes of an indicator-matrix. Thirdly, lake classification, which is a decision-making tool for management and control of eutrophication, suggests a breakdown in communication between researchers and water managers. Finally, corresponding management strategies are recommended, and the classification system can be used to simplify management by grouping lakes that may be managed by similar strategies. The classification management may enlighten and guide the appropriate policy implementation for lake eutrophication management.