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Are Nitrate and Nitrite Levels Reduced in the Natural vs. Concretized Sections of the Los Angeles River?

CSEF · 2017 Environmental Science

Lu C. Patterson · Sierra Madre Middle School, Sierra Madre, Los Angeles County

Overview

Objectives/Goals The objective of this study is to determine if there is a difference in nitrate and nitrite pollution levels in the natural bottom versus concretized sections of the Los Angeles River. Methods/Materials I used collection vials, Los Angeles river water samples, and chemical test strips. I collected, measured and compared nitrate and nitrite concentrations in two water samples taken weekly from the natural bottom and concretized sections of the river. Results My results indicate that the Burbank concretized section of the LA River has about 12 mg / L more nitrates that the natural bottomed portion of the river. However, nitrite concentrations were greater by 0.15mg/L in the natural bottom Glendale Narrows section. Conclusions/Discussion My results indicate that while returning the Los Angeles river to a permeable natural bottom might reduce nitrate pollution, the increased vegetation and wildlife in the restored river ecosystem may increase nitrite levels.

Summary statement

I determined that there is a difference in average nitrate and nitrite pollution levels in the natural versus concretized sections of the Los Angeles River.

Help received

I designed, collected, tested, and averaged the water samples by myself.

Competition history

  • CSEF 2017 Environmental Science · Entry J1212

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