Progress 08/01/02 to 07/31/07
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Our goal was to develop, implement, and evaluate a decision support system (DSS) for developing comprehensive watershed nutrient management strategies and TMDLs. The DSS integrated a GIS ecosystem model with a stakeholder-driven risk-based nutrient management decision process, using bio-indicators and water quality data for validation. We accomplished this goal by completing the following objectives: 1. Developed a GIS ecosystem model decision support system (DSS) to provide risk-based information on sources and fate of nutrients within watersheds (terrestrial and aquatic). 2. Developed a stakeholder input and advisory structure to guide the development and implementation of the risk-based DSS. 3. Developed seasonal external phosphorus load thresholds for Lake Eucha using in situ algal bioassays and a reservoir model. 4. Evaluated the effectiveness of the nutrient management DSS in the Eucha Basin and develop management alternatives for implementation. An integrated Nutrient
Management Decision and Education Support System (NMDESS) for Lake Eucha watershed located in Arkansas and Oklahoma. The NMDESS is a tool to evaluate the source, transport, and impact of nitrogen (N) and P on stream and lake water quality from point and non-point sources (NPS) of nutrients. The NMDESS can be accessed through the following link: http://www2.baeg.uark.edu/DSS/NMDESS_2/index.html The SWAT model was used as the watershed model backbone for the decision support system. It was linked with a risk-based scenario generator to predict nutrient load from the watershed. Several management scenarios were simulated with the linked models, based upon five policy dialogue meetings conducted in the first part of 2007. These scenario results were used to create NMDESS that enables a user to evaluate water quality impacts of proposed scenario changes in the watershed. The impacts of each land use scenario on reservoir water quality were simulated using CE-QUAL-W2, validated with the
in-situ bioassays. In order to understand the concerns, management preferences, and knowledge level of the participants, researchers designed a two-part interview process. The first part of these interviews was open (semi-structured) was designed to elicit concerns and preferences. Interviewees were first asked to relate their concerns, and then, what they would like to see done about each of those concerns (management preferences). The second part of the interview was designed to assess the interviewee's level of knowledge about water issues in the basin by comparing their understanding to a model designed through consultations with water experts in both states who were knowledgeable about the basin. Participants were selected from attendees of the Project Kickoff Meeting. Of the approximately 75 attendees, 36 agreed to participate. These served as the initial points of contact into the community. In addition, persons in the area known to the research team were contacted and either
asked to participate or to recommend others who might be interested.
TARGET AUDIENCES: Stakeholders in Eucha Watershed Policy makers for water resource management in Arkansas and Oklahoma
PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: The project was extended for two years due to a trans-state Federal lawsuit between the City of Tulsa, OK and Arkansas-based poultry producers. This lawsuit was filed during the first year of the project and resulted in two years delays for the project.
Impacts
The Nutrient Management Decision and Education Support System (NMDESS) web site is a portal to information related to the Eucha Watershed. Information was organized in various categories and is fully searchable by geographic area (sub-basins), environmental scenarios, and water quality. To better manage the data and information about the basin, the NMDESS uses a "scaled" approach, which allows reaching the detailed information of sub-basins. The NMDESS web-portal includes three components - data entry, a modeling system, and GIS. In SWAT, The results are derived from 38 different environmental scenarios using the measured watershed data from 1998 to 2003. Stakeholder feedback was provided for every step of development of NMDESS. A kickoff meeting and a series of five policy dialogue meetings were convened to deliberate on current understandings and conflicts in the Eucha Basin, and analyze new data from the perspectives of the stakeholders and experts. Stakeholder
representatives were selected from specific sectors to participate in dialogue meetings during the spring of 2007. Policy dialogue meetings were held on Saturday mornings, from 9:00 AM to 2:00 PM, with lunch provided. Each dialogue meeting included a presentation of scientific and policy information, followed by general discussion. The meetings were moderated by Mike Langston, who was also interviewing participants during this period for the knowledge gap assessment. As part of the analysis and deliberation process, stakeholders provided ideas, concerns, and posed questions. The technical team responded with current information, developed alternative analyses when possible, and acquired new information when appropriate. The final outcome of the meetings was a more responsive NMDESS, a deeper understanding of stakeholder's concerns by the technical team, and an improved knowledge base with stakeholders. The concerns raised by participants were quite diverse. In general, residents of
Delaware Co., OK were concerned that the water quality in Lake Eucha and Spavinaw Creek has deteriorated based on their observations. Their reasons for this concern include effects on human health, ecosystem health, and the local economy. Residents of Benton Co., AR were much less concerned about the water quality in the lake and creek. This is likely due to their lack of direct experience with the lake. Because this county holds the upper portions of the watershed and because most of the streams here are narrow and shaded by trees (in other words, are of higher order), the water that they regularly see in the creek does not show signs of pollution (such as a green color). Few of these residents travel to the lake for recreation or other purposes, and so, many believe that there is no real water quality problem. Clearly, participants have more knowledge about things with which they have the most experience. This can be seen in their familiarity with the issues and influences
associated with fertilizer, erosion, and livestock; and their unfamiliarity with more technical aspects of some components of the model such as wastewater treatment and lake chemistry.
Publications
- DeLaune, P.B., Haggard, B.E., Daniel, T.C., Chaubey, I., and Cochran, M.C. 2006. The Eucha/Spavinaw Phosphorus Index: A Court Mandated Index for Litter Management. Journal of Soil and Water Conservation 61(2):96-105.
- Haggard, B.E., Moore, P.A. Jr., and P.B. DeLaune. 2005. Phosphorus flux from reservoir bottom sediments in Lake Eucha, Oklahoma. Journal of Environmental Quality 34:724-728.
- Haggard, B.E., Stanley, E.H., and Storm, D.E. 2005. Nutrient retention in a point source enriched stream. Journal of the North American Benthological Society 24:29-47.
- Matlock, M, B. Haggard, and I. Chaubey. 2005. Managing aquatic systems at watershed scale. Encyclopedia of Agricultural, Food, and Biological Engineering D. Heldman (Editor).
- Matlock, M., I. Chaubey, B. Haggard, and K. White. 2002. The fairness principle and point-nonpoint source water quality trading, Water Resources Impact: Policy Journal of the American Water Resources Association. 4(6): 17-21.
- Haggard, B.E., M.D. Matlock, R.S. Avery and S.M. Wiliamson. 2006. Algal nutrient limitation at Lake Eucha, Oklahoma 2003 to 2005. Arkansas Water Resources Center Annual Conference, Fayetteville, Arkansas.
- Popova, Y.A., Keyworth, V.G., Haggard, B.E., Storm, D.E., R.A. Lynch, and M.E. Payton. 2006. Stream nutrient limitation and sediment interactions in the Eucha Spavinaw Basin, USA. Journal of Soil and Water Conservation 61(2): 105-115.
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Progress 01/01/06 to 12/31/06
Outputs
The final phase of this project, the stakeholder meetings for exploring the decision support system, has been delayed because of the lawsuit filed by the City of Tulsa, and subsequently another lawsuit filed by the State of Oklahoma, against the poultry industry in Arkansas. The stakeholder input meetings are scheduled to begin in February 2007, and will be completed by May 2007. The Decision Support System is ready to introduce to the stakeholders, and the mental model mapping has been completed for the expert population. All project activities should be complete by August 2007.
Impacts
This phase of the project will provide the final feedback necessary to complete the DSS. The results will yield a decision support tool that should enhance education and management efforts on the landscape.
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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Progress 01/01/05 to 12/31/05
Outputs
The goal of this project is to develop, implement, and evaluate a decision support system (DSS) for developing comprehensive watershed nutrient management strategies and TMDLs. The DSS will integrate a GIS ecosystem model with a stakeholder-driven risk-based nutrient management decision process, using bio-indicators and water quality data for validation. We will accomplish this goal by completing the following four objectives: Objective 1: Develop a GIS ecosystem model decision support system (DSS) to provide risk-based information on sources and fate of nutrients within watersheds (terrestrial and aquatic). Status: The baseline modeling and DSS formulation were performed as per the project schedule. Specific task accomplishments and associated modifications are listed below. Task 1a. Develop a GIS-based DSS using SWAT as the scenario engine. The Beta Version of the DSS was released in November, 2005. Task 1b. Development of in-stream nutrient processes for SWAT. A
model subroutine was developed to address limitations of the current in-stream P model in SWAT. Plans for 2005: The final version of the DSS will be completed in 2006, with a full suite of scenarios run to populate the DSS. Objective 2: Develop a stakeholder input and advisory structure to guide the development and implementation of the risk-based DSS. Status: The advisory group has been organized and met in 2005 to review and revise the DSS. Task 2a. Structure active advisory groups into project stakeholder groups. During 2005, the Stakeholder Participation Group has accomplished the following: 1. Implemented the instruments to be used when contacting and interviewing participants, 2. Interviewed experts and developed an expert conceptual model. Plans for CY 2006: Complete the stakeholder interviews, develop an analysis of their attitudes, and convene stakeholder assessment meetings. Objective 3: Develop seasonal external phosphorus load thresholds for Lake Eucha using in situ algal
bioassays and a reservoir model. Status: The tasks for Objective 3 were completed on schedule, as described below. Task 3a: The mean daily discharge and water chemistry data from the US Geological Survey at stream gauges located in the Lake Eucha Basin have been analyzed. Task 3b: Passive diffusion periphytometers and phytoplankton enclosure to determine planktonic and periphytic algal nutrient limitation at Lake Eucha have been developed. The periphytometers and enclosures were deployed in May, September and November 2004. Task 3c: The CE-QUAL-W2 model have been developed and calibrated. Objective 4: Evaluate the effectiveness of the nutrient management DSS in the Eucha Basin and develop management alternatives for implementation. Status: This objective has been delayed due to conflicts within the basin but will begin in May, 2006.
Impacts
The goal of this project is to develop a nutrient management decision and education support system (NMDESS) for developing comprehensive watershed nutrient management strategies for both agricultural and urban landscapes. The process of Analysis and Deliberation was used to develop this DSS. This process involves intensive discourse, both in public education sessions and private interviews, between the scientific community, watershed managers, and other stakeholders within the basin. NMDESS provides a risk-based approach in identifying substantial nutrient sources within watersheds based on site-specific terrestrial, atmospheric, and hydrologic components of nitrogen and phosphorus nutrient cycles. NMDESS integrates risk-based decision-making theory with geographic information system (GIS)-based watershed modeling (Soil and Water Assessment Tool, or SWAT) and reservoir modeling (CE-QUAL-W2) to create a decision support system that links land use practices with
reservoir water quality. This project engages community members, educators, policy makers and scientists from two states to develop a watershed-based ecosystem management framework. The methods and tools for implementing NMDESS are applicable nation-wide.
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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Progress 01/01/04 to 12/30/04
Outputs
The goal of this project is to develop, implement, and evaluate a decision support system (DSS) for developing comprehensive watershed nutrient management strategies and TMDLs. The DSS will integrate a GIS ecosystem model with a stakeholder-driven risk-based nutrient management decision process, using bio-indicators and water quality data for validation. We will accomplish this goal by completing the following four objectives: Objective 1: Develop a GIS ecosystem model decision support system (DSS) to provide risk-based information on sources and fate of nutrients within watersheds (terrestrial and aquatic). Status: The baseline modeling and DSS formulation were performed as per the project schedule. Specific task accomplishments and associated modifications are listed below. Task 1a. Develop a GIS-based DSS using SWAT as the scenario engine. A preliminary outline of the DSS was presented at the project kickoff meeting in February, 2004, attended by 68 community
members. The DSS and associated scenarios have been prototyped and are being refined in 2005. Task 1b. Development of Poultry Litter Land Application Component for SWAT. Additional experience with the SWAT model has allowed us to accurately parameterize the model to account for the surface application of poultry litter to permanent pastures. These efforts have been redirected to address limitations of the current in-stream P model in SWAT. Plans for 2005: The beta release of the DSS will be completed in 2005, with a full suite of scenarios run to populate the DSS. Objective 2: Develop a stakeholder input and advisory structure to guide the development and implementation of the risk-based DSS. Status: The advisory group has been organized and will meet in 2005 to review and revise the DSS. Task 2a. Structure active advisory groups into project stakeholder groups. During 2004, the Stakeholder Participation Group has accomplished the following: *Developed and convened a stakeholder
kickoff meeting in February 2004, *Developed the instruments to be used when contacting and interviewing participants, *Interviewed experts and developed an expert conceptual model. Plans for CY 2005: The remaining tasks will be completed during 2005. Objective 3: Develop seasonal external phosphorus load thresholds for Lake Eucha using in situ algal bioassays and a reservoir model. Status: The tasks for Objective 3 were completed on schedule, as described below. Task 3a: We have analyzed mean daily discharge and water chemistry data from the US Geological Survey at stream gauges located in the Lake Eucha Basin. Task 3b: We have deployed passive diffusion periphytometers and phytoplankton enclosure to determine planktonic and periphytic algal nutrient limitation at Lake Eucha. The periphytometers and enclosures were deployed in May, September and November 2004. Task 3c: We have developed and calibrated the CE-QUAL-W2 model. Objective 4: Evaluate the effectiveness of the nutrient
management DSS in the Eucha Basin and develop management alternatives for implementation. Status: This objective has been delayed due to conflicts within the basin but will begin in May, 2005.
Impacts
The goal of this project is to develop a nutrient management decision and education support system (NMDESS) for developing comprehensive watershed nutrient management strategies for both agricultural and urban landscapes. The process of Analysis and Deliberation was used to develop this DSS. This process involves intensive discourse, both in public education sessions and private interviews, between the scientific community, watershed managers, and other stakeholders within the basin. NMDESS provides a risk-based approach to identifying substantial nutrient sources within watersheds based on site-specific terrestrial, atmospheric, and hydrologic components of nitrogen and phosphorus nutrient cycles. NMDESS integrates risk-based decision-making theory with geographic information system (GIS)-based watershed modeling (Soil and Water Assessment Tool, or SWAT) and reservoir modeling (CE-QUAL-W2) to create a decision support system that links land use practices with
reservoir water quality. This project engages community members, educators, policy makers and scientists from two states to develop a watershed-based ecosystem management framework. The methods and tools for implementing NMDESS are applicable nation-wide.
Publications
- No publications reported this period
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Progress 01/01/03 to 12/31/03
Outputs
The goal of this project is to develop, implement, and evaluate a decision support system (DSS) for developing comprehensive watershed nutrient management strategies and TMDLs. We will accomplish this goal by completing the following four objectives: Objective 1: Develop a GIS ecosystem model decision support system (DSS) to provide risk-based information on sources and fate of nutrients within watersheds (terrestrial and aquatic). Status: Portions of this objective were delayed due to the lawsuit filed by the City of Tulsa against poultry producers in the watershed. However, much of the baseline modeling and DSS formulation were performed as per the project schedule. A preliminary outline of the DSS has been prepared. The PIs have modified the structure of the DSS, and the changes will be presented at the project kickoff meeting in February, 2004. In response to emergent modeling needs we have developed a simple in-stream P model for SWAT. Objective 2: Develop a
stakeholder input and advisory structure to guide the development and implementation of the risk-based DSS. Status: This task has been delayed due to the lawsuit filed by the City of Tulsa, OK against the poultry producers in the project watershed. The lawsuit settlement was finalized on Feb. 13, 2004, so this phase will be initiated with the Introductory Stakeholder Meeting on February 24, 2004. The status of each task in Objective 2 is described below. During 2003, the Stakeholder Participation Group has accomplished the following: *Formulated specific plans for conducting the interviews and focus groups *Met with County Extension Agents in both Arkansas and Oklahoma to initiate the recruitment process *Compiled a list of agencies to be involved *Drafted a preliminary expert influence diagram *Developed the instruments to be used when contacting and interviewing participants Objective 3: Develop seasonal external phosphorus load thresholds for Lake Eucha using in situ algal
bioassays and a reservoir model. Status: The tasks for Objective 3 are being completed on schedule. We have constructed passive diffusion periphytometers and phytoplankton enclosure to determine planktonic and periphytic algal nutrient limitation at Lake Eucha. Field work also includes deployment of a series of passive diffusion periphytometers. The periphytometers and enclosures were deployed in August 2003, September 2003 and November 2003 - the latter deployment was after turnover in the small impoundment. Chlorophyll a content has been analyzed on samples from the August 2003 deployment. We have constructed the framework (control file and bathymetry grid) for the CE-QUAL-W2 model, and in June 2003 attended a workshop on this reservoir model. We have gathered meteorological data and requested stream flow and water chemistry data from sites within the catchment monitored by the City of Tulsa and the US Geological Survey. Objective 4: Evaluate the effectiveness of the nutrient
management DSS in the Eucha Basin and develop management alternatives for implementation. Status: This objective is not slated to begin until the beginning of Project Year 3, November, 2004.
Impacts
This project will provide stakeholders with decision tools for improved management of nutrients from agricultural production at the watershed level.
Publications
- M. Matlock, R. Kiesling, D. Storm, B. Haggard, 2003. Developing a Phosphorus Threshold for Ozark Streams. Invited Presentation, USEPA Region VI Technical Advisory Group Meeting, Dallas, TX. December 2, 2003.
- Matlock, M., I. Chaubey, B. Haggard, and K. White. 2002. The Fairness Principle and point-nonpoint source water quality trading. Water Resources Impact. 4(6): 17-21. Middleburg, VA
- M. Matlock, 2003. The TMDL Program -Challenges and Opportunities. Texas A&M University Seminar Series - Soil, Crop, and Environmental Sciences Department. College Station, TX, April 2, 2003.
- M. Matlock, 2003. Rules of Engagement for Stakeholders. Arkansas Water Resource Center Annual Conference, Fayetteville, AR. April 22, 2003.
- M. Matlock, 2003. Keynote Speaker: Developing Ecologically-Based Thresholds for Significant P Thresholds in Waters. The International Phosphorus Linking Workshop -"Linking sources of phosphorus and sediment -seeking an integrated approach". Sponsored by the Department for Environment, Food, and Rural Affairs, United Kingdom. London, England, May 8-9, 2003.
- M. Matlock, 2003. Collaborative Learning as a tool for Analysis and Deliberation in Watershed Policy Development. Geological Society of America Annual Meeting, Seattle, WA. Nov. 3, 2003.
- M. Matlock, I. Chaubey, B. Haggard, and T. Costello, 2003. Engaging Stakeholders in Watershed Management Processes Using a Decision Support System. "Changing Sciences for a Changing World: Building a Broader Vision" 2003 ASA-CSSA-SSSA Annual Meetings, Denver, Colorado. November 2-6, 2003.
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Progress 01/01/02 to 12/31/02
Outputs
This project began in August, 2002. The goal of this project is to develop a watershed nutrient management decision support system (DSS) that can be used for developing comprehensive watershed nutrient management strategies for both agricultural and urban landscapes. This DSS will provide a risk-based approach to identifying all substantial nutrient sources within watersheds at field, farm, and watershed scales over daily-to-annual time periods, and will incorporate site-specific terrestrial, atmospheric, and hydrologic components of nitrogen and phosphorus nutrient cycles. Processes that act to remove nutrients from the watershed will be quantified using models and bio-indicators. We will integrate risk-based decision-making theory with geographic information system (GIS)-based watershed modeling (Surface Water Assessment Tool, or SWAT) and reservoir modeling (CE-QUAL-W2) to create a decision support system that links land use practices with reservoir water quality.
We will use SWAT as the watershed model backbone for the DSS and link it with a risk-based scenario generator. Innovations will include developing terrestrial nutrient process modules for SWAT, engaging stakeholders to identify and quantify uncertainty in nutrient management, developing and validating a reservoir model linked to SWAT output, and developing a GIS-based scenario generator interface for simplifying scenario analysis. This same approach can be applied to different watersheds by characterizing the nutrient process dynamics and applying the same protocol for management. This project will be performed in the Eucha Basin (Figure 1). This project will be a cooperative effort between the University of Arkansas, Oklahoma State University, the Oklahoma Cooperative Extension Service, USDA-ARS, and the City of Tulsa. Collaborators will include watershed ecologists, biosystems engineers, political scientists, and cooperative extension specialists. The investigators have established
baseline data for model configuration, have calibrated hydrology for SWAT, and have developed the Advisory Committee for this project. Land use data and water quality data have been acquired from the City of Tulsa to aid in the model development. Extension personnel from Arkansas and Oklahoma have developed a collaborative strategy for engaging stakeholders. Finally, a joint meeting between the USDA-ARS, OSU Div of Ag, and UA Div of Ag was convened in December 2002 to discuss this issue and explore additional collaborative opportunities.
Impacts
This project will provide a framework for developing watershed management strategies in complex watersheds with competing demands for ecological services.
Publications
- Matlock, M., I. Chaubey, B. Haggard, and K. White. 2002. The Fairness Principle and point-nonpoint source water quality trading, Water Resources Impact. 4(6): 17-21. Middleburg, VA
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