INFORMATION SOLUTIONS FOR WATERSHED PROTECTION

Several tools have been designed to aid local municipalities in implementation of the watershed protection plans. This paper will highlight the following four technologies. Watershed Improvements through Statistical Evaluations Model (Web-WISE) Web-WISE was designed to link the watershed pollutant loads to narrative standards, i.e., biological indices. Specific biological standards based on biological indices such as IBI (Index of Biological Integrity), Fish Score and ICI (Invertebrate Community Index) are used as measurement tools and are linked to various pollutant loads from the watershed. The Web-WISE model allows the user to view various scenarios based on desired goals and make technically sound decisions for developing narrative total maximum daily loads (TMDLs). The “what-if” scenarios allow the user to screen various combinations of BMPs (Best Management Practices) and present a “reality check” by way of cost-benefit analyses. The model also allows local governments to track new developments and control the amount of pollutants carried by runoff from the site by using BMPs. Concept Review Management System (CRMS) CRMS is a tracking and management tool for zoning and concept review processes. It was designed to assist Fulton County, GA municipalities in their concept review process. The principal goal of CRMS was to provide the County with a tool that could lay out a data management framework that complemented their review processes. CRMS keeps electronic records of zoning and concept review entries and helps track the process from start to finish.CRMS is specifically aimed to benefit three zoning and concept review functions:Customer ServiceProject ManagementTechnical ReviewEnvironmental Data Management System (EDMS) Data management is an integral part of any monitoring program. To efficiently utilize available data, it is essential that a framework be in place that can store, retrieve, and analyze existing data. The EDMS (objective is to provide a tool that assists data management as specified in a particular watershed protection plan.EDMS consists of three components:Component 1: Data EntryComponent 2: Data Storage and ReportingComponent 3: Data Analysis TMDL Information Management System (TMDL IMS) This technology provides a tool that assists in utilizing available data to make informed decisions regarding TMDL issues. CH2M HILL has developed an information management system that helps entities manage information related to TMDL issues. The TMDL IMS has been designed to allow quick access to an entity's NPDES data, Land Use, GIS, and Pollutant Loads. Together, these tools have been designed to aid local municipalities in implementing watershed protection plans.