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APPLICATION OF THE SYNOPTIC APPROACH TO WETLAND DESIGNATION: A STUDY IN LOUISIANA
Citation:
Abbruzzese, B., S. Leibowitz, AND R. Sumner. APPLICATION OF THE SYNOPTIC APPROACH TO WETLAND DESIGNATION: A STUDY IN LOUISIANA. U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Washington, D.C., EPA/600/3-90/066.
Description:
The synoptic approach is a rapid assessment method designed to provide a context for evaluating landscape sensitivity to cumulative wetland loss and to complement site specific information used in reviewing permit applications to alter wetlands. he objectives of this study were to: . test the utility of the synoptic approach in prioritizing wetland "functional uses" for the development of wetland water quality standards; . comparatively rank watersheds based on their wetland functional attributes and sensitivity to change; and 3. implement the transfer of the research products to State wetland managers. eadily available data were compiled for the State of Louisiana into a set of map overlays. he overlays were synthesized to produce indices of landscape input and wetland capacity for hydrologic, water quality and life support functions, cumulative impacts and future wetland losses for watersheds within the State. he synoptic approach identifies wetland functions not included in Louisiana's designated uses of surface waters. he approach may be more appropriate for a state with a more generalized set of water quality standards than Louisiana's, since synoptic results are not specific. he products of statewide assessments may be useful in regional planning and in the development of state wetland conservation plans.