Abstract

A GIS - based approach for assessing water quality risk
Track: Water Resources
Authors: Eric Berntsen, Papanzin Cid

Water quality impacts from construction sites are dependent on climatic, geologic, and topographic factors and proximity to sediment sensitive waterbodies. We developed a GIS-based approach for assessing water quality risk from construction sites that disturb one or more acre of land. The GIS was used to estimate project related soil loss using the Revised Universal Soil Loss Equation and delineate sub-watersheds containing sediment-sensitive waterbodies. This information was used to generate a construction project risk level that the permit applicant uses to determine a project's monitoring and reporting requirements. The approach allowed the Water Boards to identify high risk construction sites and apply the most stringent monitoring and reporting requirements in order to protect water quality.