A Decision Support System for Nutrient and Trace Element Management introduces a computerized decision support system (DSS) designed to assist in the management of nutrient and trace element loadings to coastal rivers and estuaries. The DSS examines the implications of changes in land-use or land-cover on the loadings of nutrients and trace elements to smaller streams in individual watersheds, and then links these loadings to tributaries and the mainstem of the Patuxent River and estuary.

The computer application has been designed to assist managers in addressing issues across various spatial-temporal scales, including regional nutrient criteria, total maximum daily loads, local real estate developments, and nutrient trading. Although the book focuses on the Patuxent River and estuary, the DSS is not limited to use in this watershed, and its application to other larger scale coastal watersheds is discussed.