Phytoplankton in Upper Willamette Reservoirs Dataset

Phytoplankton samples were collected from 5 upper Willamette Basin reservoirs in variable months during years 2013-2016 and 2019. Samples were collected from Blue River Reservoir, Cougar Reservoir, Fall Creek Reservoir, Lookout Point Reservoir, and Hills Creek Reservoir. The phytoplankton were identified and enumerated by Jim Sweet at Aquatic Analysts. Density and biovolume were calculated for each phytoplankton species identified per sample collected. This dataset also includes environmental parameters corresponding to sample collection date or the week preceding sample collection. Research context: This research was conducted to determine spatial and temporal phytoplankton diversity and bloom timing in the upper Willamette Reservoirs. Cyanobacteria are of particular concern as some species can produce toxins that are harmful to wildlife and humans. Thus, understanding the phytoplankton species present in these reservoirs and their general bloom times is of critical importance.