Abstract

A GIS tool to estimate E.coli loads from On-Site Sewage Facilities
Track: Water Resources
Authors: Afreen Virani

A spatially-explicit algorithm to estimate E.coli levels in watersheds resulting from failing OSSFs was implemented using ArcGIS10. Spatial and temporal analyses of accumulated E.coli levels in streams were made possible by GIS. The algorithm was automated using Arcpy to simulate E.coli levels in surface waters in a coastal Texas watershed for different rainfall conditions. Results from this automated tool can be used by watershed regulators and planners to make timely management decisions.