Major Goals and Objectives

The overarching objective of this proposed study is to advance a systems-level understanding of nutrient pollution dynamics in the Lake Michigan Basin. This will be achieved by integrating spatial analysis, nutrient surplus-export coupling, and scenario-based modeling to support targeted, climate-resilient watershed management strategies. Objective 1: Classify watershed typologies based on surplus–export relationships and identify nutrient pollution hotspots. Objective 2: Develop a conservation framework that integrates hotspot identification, factor analysis, and targeted interventions. Objective 3: Evaluate the effectiveness of management scenarios under projected climate and hydrologic conditions using modeling approaches.