MIPS Project Challenge:
MAN sought to determine the top nutrient-absorbing aquatic plants and the nutrient uptake potential of planted floating rafts compared to the traditional methods of planted shorelines for nutrient management in ponds. The company planned to recommend plant-stocking densities to treat storm water ponds.

Project Scope:
Andrew Lazur determined the nitrogen and phosphorus uptake potential of six freshwater aquatic plants within a floating raft system and compared these to traditional, soil-based planting. Lazur determined differences in nutrient uptake potential and the other plant production advantages of rafts, including growth rate. Water samples were analyzed for nitrogen and phosphorus levels using analytical services at Horn Point Laboratory. The three plant species with the greatest nutrient uptake were raised in floating raft and soil-based pots, and water nitrogen and phosphorus analysis of the three replicates was conducted and compared to the other treatments (floating raft and soil-based pots).