LAUSR

Abstract A three-dimensional coupled hydrodynamic-biogeochemical model was applied to simulate and investigate causes of eutrophication in two stormwater ponds in the City of Edmonton (Alberta, Canada). The ponds differ in shape, surface area, depth and trophic state. Strong spatial gradients, in water column thermal structure and water quality state variables were observed (e.g., ∼10 °C; 0.1 mg L−1 PO4, 0.5 mg L−1 total P and 50 μg L−1 chlorophyll-a over ∼3m), showing the ponds were incompletely mixed systems. Using a single set of calibration parameters, which differed from calibrations to larger systems, the model accurately simulated these gradients, with errors being highest for NO3 and total chlorophyll-a (RMSE