Wisconsin Ag Connection - DNR Mapping Software Helps Reduce Runoff, Phosphorus Pollution

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DNR Mapping Software Helps Reduce Runoff, Phosphorus Pollution
Wisconsin Ag Connection - 11/06/2014

A new software tool developed by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources is being touted as an effective way to help reduce agricultural runoff and erosion. Developed to integrate satellite imaging and geographic information system or GIS technology, the erosion vulnerability assessment for agricultural lands tool--known as EVAAL--depicts areas susceptible to runoff based on topography, land cover and soils.

While the software will be used by environmental professionals ranging from consulting engineers and nutrient management planners to county conservationists and academic researchers, it is expected to produce very real benefits for citizens statewide.

"We know clean rivers, lakes and streams are a priority for Wisconsin residents," said Theresa Nelson, a water resources engineer in the DNR division of water quality. "Reducing agricultural runoff conserves topsoil and cuts down on the amount of phosphorus entering our surface waters. The new software helps prioritize lands with the greatest vulnerability, saving time and money for farmers by identifying the most significant opportunities to cut sediment and phosphorus runoff."

Detailed maps produced by the software highlight areas where large gullies or tiny rills may carry nutrients away from fields and toward bodies of water. Other elements, such as large internally drained areas that help capture runoff also appear. The EVAAL tool allows private landowners and county planners to consider these features at both the grid scale - down to three square meters - and at the broader field or watershed level.

Phosphorus has long been recognized as the controlling factor in plant and algae growth in Wisconsin lakes and streams. Small increases in phosphorus can fuel substantial increases in aquatic plant and algae growth, which in turn can reduce recreational use, property values and public health.

The new software is available for download by visiting dnr.wi.gov and searching for "EVAAL." The package includes methods documentation, a tutorial and practice datasets.

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