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Using Empirical Flow-Duration Curves to Estimate Watershed Loading of Sediment, Nitrogen and Phosphorus: Application to TMDL Analyses and BMP Effectiveness Evaluation
The collaborative research made possible by this Interagency Agreement has two major objectives. The first is to identify and quantify the major factors that connect watershed hydrology and water quality (such as soil type, slope, land use, etc.). These connecting factors are important for evaluating the effectiveness of agricultural best management practices (BMPs) and establishing TMDLs (total maximum daily load analyses), because they often determine stream and stressor management decisions. Secondly, this research will explore and develop uniform methods for comparing hydrology and water quality data, focusing on watersheds subjected to agricultural BMPs. Research methods will take into account natural variability and uncertainty in watershed response to BMP installation and precipitation events. These objectives will be achieved through an in-depth examination of historical data collected at the NAEW over the past 70 years along with examinations of other related databases. Supplemental data will be gathered where necessary using NAEW’s well-instrumented small and medium-sized watersheds, and other USEPA research locations as deemed appropriate. As a result of this research, methods will be developed that will make it possible to quantify BMP effectiveness, and to understand how natural systems respond to BMP installation over time. This will benefit states and other stakeholders faced with selecting and using BMPs to develop and implement TMDLs.
Contact: Matthew Morrison, 513/569-7441 (EIMS#80105)