Optimizing Nonpoint Source Pollution Reduction Costs

by John G. Garland, III,
Frank S. Tirsch,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Computer Applications in Water Resources

Abstract:

This study demonstrates diminishing marginal returns for spending to reduce nonpoint source pollution in Hampton, Virginia. A linear optimization program selected the best combination of management practices to minimize the cost of removing five nonpoint source pollutants - total nitrogen, total phosphorus, suspended solids, fecal coliforms and five-day biochemical oxygen demand. Management practice options were grass swale roadways, porous pavers, detention basins, ponds and fertilizer management. A sensitivity analysis was conducted for total phosphorus to determine how sensitive overall nonpoint source pollution control costs were to key mangement practice data used in linear optimization problem.

Subject Headings: Water pollution | Nonpoint pollution | Sensitivity analysis | Benefit cost ratios | Nutrient pollution | Highway and road management | Water supply | Virginia | United States

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