Publication:

Hydroinformatics Tools to Aid Decision Making for Nutrient Remediation at Source (2004)

Author(s): Hewett CJM, Quinn PF

    Abstract: The use of nutrients is central to modern farming because of the requirement for high yields. Unfortunately this often results in nutrient rich runoff into waterways especially during storm events. Two hydroinformatics tools are presented which, in a clear, precise manner, can educate farmers and policy makers on good practice for reducing nutrient loss and persuade them to implement such measures. TopManage, a high resolution digital terrain analysis toolkit for runoff management, highlights likely flow paths, operation of critical source areas and identifies potential locations for controlling nutrient loss without compromising the economic viability of farms. By operating at a high grid resolution TopManage enables the effect of man-made features such as tramlines, land drains and hedgerows to be modelled. TopManage is designed to demonstrate to the wider community that we understand runoff, pollution and how to prioritise the locations best suited to manage farmland. The phosphorous export risk matrix is a policy tool that integrates this understanding of runoff with a number of agronomic and policy factors into a clear problem-solving framework to allow farmers and policy makers to visualise strategies for reducing nutrient loss through proactive land management. The risk of pollution is assessed by asking a series of informed questions relating to farming intensity and practice. This information is combined with the concept of runoff management to point towards simple, practical mitigation strategies which do not compromise farmers' ability to obtain sound economic returns from their crop and livestock.

    Notes:

      • Date: 21-24 June 2004
      • Conference Name: Proceedings of the 6th International Conference on Hydroinformatics
      • Publisher: World Scientific Publishing Company
      • Publication type: Conference Proceedings (inc. abstract)
      • Bibliographic status: Published
        Staff

        Dr Paul Quinn
        Senior Lecturer in Catchment Hydrology