Grantee Research Project Results
2003 Progress Report: Evaluation of Riparian Zones for Controlling Non-point Source Pollution in NE Kansas
EPA Grant Number: R829418E03Title: Evaluation of Riparian Zones for Controlling Non-point Source Pollution in NE Kansas
Investigators: Hutchinson, Stacy Lewis , Young, C. Bryan , Mankin, Kyle R. , Barden, Charles
Institution: Kansas State University , University of Kansas
EPA Project Officer: Chung, Serena
Project Period: September 24, 2001 through September 23, 2003 (Extended to February 23, 2005)
Project Period Covered by this Report: September 24, 2002 through September 23, 2003
Project Amount: $254,770
RFA: EPSCoR (Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research) (2000) RFA Text | Recipients Lists
Research Category: EPSCoR (The Experimental Program to Stimulate Competitive Research)
Objective:
The objectives of this research project are to: (1) evaluate and modify a comprehensive riparian buffer simulation model, the Riparian Ecosystem Management Model (REMM), for the evaluation of ecosystem and non-point source (NPS) pollution control functions of buffer systems in Kansas; and (2) design a field study based on the model sensitivity analysis to develop a complete field data set for calibrating and evaluating REMM in Kansas, including the collection of pesticide and fecal bacteria data for future model algorithm development.
Progress Summary:
Objective 1: To Evaluate and Modify a Comprehensive Riparian Buffer Simulation Model, REMM, for the Evaluation of Ecosystem and NPS Pollution Control Functions of Buffer Systems in Kansas
Sensitivity Analysis. To identify critical input parameters and evaluate model uncertainties, a first-order sensitivity analysis was conducted for nine REMM output variables based on selected soil, vegetation, and weather-input parameters. Each input variable was changed from -50 to +50 percent in 12 intervals, or in some cases, the complete range of input was tested depending on input requirements. Baseline input values for the sensitivity analysis were taken from Gibbs Farm, GA, where REMM was tested with a 5-year field data set. Results of the sensitivity analysis indicate that, in general, REMM responses were the most sensitive to weather inputs, indicating that REMM requires onsite weather data for the model calibration and validation. Deep seepage, volumetric water, and pore-size index in the buffer soil profile were the most influential inputs for water movement. Sediment yield was very sensitive to Manning's coefficient, bare soil percent, and soil permeability. In the vegetation editor, specific leaf area, growing degree day coefficients, and maximum root depth strongly influenced the nitrogen cycle. The model was not sensitive to bedrock, pH, base saturation, the fraction of normal root growth, rainfall duration, and sources of heartwood. Because of the extreme sensitivity and irregular responses of subsurface nitrate to most input variables, model integrity and accuracy for the nitrogen cycle were questioned.
Development of Regional Data Sets. Local model sensitivity regions were developed using the output sensitivity of REMM to climate variation and the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) Level III Ecoregions for Kansas. After creating six weather parameter data layers, which were developed using at least a 12-year record of data, the inverse-distance-weighted interpolation method was used to delineate weather distributions and compute averages across Kansas. The interpolation accuracy was evaluated by root mean square error analysis. Regression coefficients from plots of the model output responses versus percent input change were used to determine three weather input sensitivity bandwidths, ±5, ±15, and ±20 percent, which were defined as "good," "moderate," and "poor" model response. Common geographic information system techniques (i.e., overlaying and intersecting) were used to create weather layers and to develop model sensitivity regions corresponding with major REMM output variables. After completing all weather layers, each sensitivity polygon was reclassified using the three weather sensitivity bandwidths and overlaid on the U.S. EPA Level III ecoregions. Sensitivity regions varied across Kansas. The good sensitivity (±5 percent) region was only found within two eastern Kansas ecoregions. These results indicate that weather variability across the state has significant potential to impact REMM prediction. Because climate is one of the main factors used to delineate ecoregions, regional data sets based on the U.S. EPA level III ecoregions may not be suitable for assessing the effectiveness of riparian buffer systems using REMM estimation because of its high sensitivity to weather. Further analysis of other critical input parameters is required.
Objective 2: To Design a Field Study Based on the Model Sensitivity Analysis To Develop a Complete Field Data Set for Calibrating and Evaluating REMM in Kansas Including the Collection of Pesticide and Fecal Bacteria Data for Future Model Algorithm Development
A site located on the Kansas State University Animal Science Farm was selected as the research field site. The site will be part of the Kansas State University Waste Management Learning Center and serve as a buffer demonstration site for local agricultural producers as well as a research site. To date, the upland field and buffer have been surveyed using a survey grade global positioning system unit and total station. Elevation data from the survey was used to develop a fine-scale (1m x 1m) digital elevation model (DEM). Stream cross-section data were used to develop stage-discharge relationships for the channel and install ISCO, Inc., water samplers. The fine-scale DEM is being used to assess the site hydrology and determine the proper placement for the surface runoff samplers. The surface runoff samplers have been modified from a previous design, and laboratory calibration is underway. Data collection from the site will begin in the spring of 2004.
Future Activities:
We will further analyze critical input parameters to REMM and begin to collect data from the Kansas State University Animal Science Farm site in spring 2004.
Journal Articles on this Report : 1 Displayed | Download in RIS Format
Other project views: | All 11 publications | 2 publications in selected types | All 2 journal articles |
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Type | Citation | ||
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Hutchinson SL. Evaluating the impact and mitigation of concentrated flow through riparian buffers. Journal of Soil and Water Conservation. |
R829418E03 (2003) |
not available |
Supplemental Keywords:
nonpoint source pollution, NPS, riparian buffer, Riparian Ecosystem Management Model, REMM, Kansas, KS, assessment methods, biodegradation, bioremediation of soils, biotechnology, contaminated sediment, engineering, environmental measurement, environmental technology, human exposure, human health risk, remediation technologies, riparian buffer simulation model, riparian buffers., RFA, Scientific Discipline, Health, Waste, Water, Geographic Area, TREATMENT/CONTROL, Ecosystem Protection/Environmental Exposure & Risk, Contaminated Sediments, Environmental Chemistry, Remediation, State, Chemistry, Technology, Risk Assessments, Monitoring/Modeling, Biochemistry, Environmental Monitoring, Ecology and Ecosystems, Environmental Engineering, environmental technology, environmental measurement, riparian buffer simulation model, biodegradation, contaminated sediment, remediation technologies, non-point source pollution, riparian buffers, bioremediation of soils, human exposure, Kansas (KS), engineering, biotechnology, assessment methods, water qualityProgress and Final Reports:
Original AbstractThe perspectives, information and conclusions conveyed in research project abstracts, progress reports, final reports, journal abstracts and journal publications convey the viewpoints of the principal investigator and may not represent the views and policies of ORD and EPA. Conclusions drawn by the principal investigators have not been reviewed by the Agency.