Abstract

New Mexico Uses GISST Preventing LUST (Leaking Underground Storage Tank)
Track: Environmental Management
Authors: Suzan Arfman

GoNM (Geographic Information System Screening Tool of New Mexico) is used to rate Underground Storage Tank (UST) facilities on risk potential to leak and environmental impact of a release and to facilitate remediation.
A study area around a GPS point is used to score criteria complied from 3 datasets: - physical surroundings, - demographics, - and the facility. Using Spatial Analyst information from these multiple data layers was queried to determine risk potential.
Each criterion within each layer is rated 1 to 5 with 1 being optimal score (minimal risk) and 5 worst (maximum risk). Each layer has scores averaged so there are 3 different scores. These 3 scores are averaged together to give overall score for risk potential to leak to occur. Those sites with a higher score will be inspected on a more frequent schedule to aid in preventing releases and minimize risk to human health and environment.