Post-doctoral Project Detail

Project Number:

AED-09-14-09-203

Division:

Branch:

Watershed Diagnostics Branch

Geographical Location of position:

Narragansett, Rhode Island

Title of Project:

Benefit-cost analysis of "gray" versus "green" infrastructure

Brief Description of Research Project:

The position will support research expected to yield method(s) for benefit-cost analysis of the use of traditional man-made (or "gray") infrastructure versus the use Green Infrastructure (GI) and Low Impact Development (LID) to manage storm water. EPA's Office of Water (OW) has endorsed the incorporation of GI and LID practices into the development of Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs), either through the Load Allocation process for current and future nonpoint sources, or through TMDL Implementation Plans or equivalent watershed management plans (www.epa.gov/owow/tmdl/stormwater/pdf/tmdl_lid_final.pdf ). Stormwater management practices can be implemented through either regulatory means (e.g., stormwater permits, or local ordinances) or through incentive-based programs. Guidance is needed by EPA Regions, States, watershed/coastal management organizations and local communities on the benefits and costs of traditional "gray" infrastructure used to manage storm water as compared with GI and LID practices. Estimation of benefits will require valuation of ecosystem services provided by green infrastructure. Research will be coordinated among EPA's National Heath and Environmental Effects and National Risk Management Research Laboratories; Office of Research and Development's Water Quality and Ecosystem Services Research Programs; and EPA's Stormwater and TMDL Programs.

High Priority Research Area(s):

Watershed Research Strategy

Projected duration of appointment (2 or 3 years):

3 years

Educational requirements:

Ph.D. in Ecological Economics, Ecology, Environmental Science, Environmental Engineering, or closely related field

Specialized training and/or experience preferred:

Cost-benefit analysis, ecological economics, valuation of ecosystem services, evaluation of best management practices

Scientific Contact/Principal
Investigator(s)*

Name: Naomi Detenbeck
email: detenbeck.naomi@epa.gov