Assessing Nonpoint Pollution Potential of Surface Waters Using a Geographic Information System

by Patrick N. Deliman, Texas A&M Univ, United States,
Mary Leigh Wolfe, Texas A&M Univ, United States,



Document Type: Proceeding Paper

Part of: Watershed Planning and Analysis in Action

Abstract:

The use of Geographic Information Systems (GIS) to determine the susceptibility of surface waters to nonpoint pollution is described. The Geographic Resources Analysis Support System (GRASS) developed by the U.S. Army Corps of Engineers Construction Engineering Research Laboratory was used in the study. The methodology was applied to dairy operations in Erath County, Texas. Existing spatial data including elevation, soil descriptions, location of dairies, and location of streams and tributaries were digitized into GRASS. Analysis tools in GRASS were used to assess the potential impact of the dairies on the quality of surface water in the study area. The information provided from the study indicates that the GIS can be used effectively for siting new dairies as well as identifying current areas of pollution susceptibility.

Subject Headings: Geographic information systems | Information systems | Nonpoint pollution | Water pollution | Surface water | Vegetation | System analysis | United States | Texas

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