The economics of flow enhancement vs. nutrient controls in meeting water quality standards: a case study of Spring Creek
Author(s)
Marbury, Leslie
Keeler, Andrew G.
Advisor(s)
Editor(s)
Hatcher, Kathryn J.
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Abstract
Many of the rivers and streams in Georgia
are still not supporting their designated uses. The
TMDL program is a key policy tool to address this
problem. While the TMDLs written for impaired
segments in Georgia address load reduction from point
and nonpoint sources, the role of instream flow is not
addressed as a management option. The purpose of this
paper is to explore the economics of using enhanced
flow as part of strategies to meet water quality
standards. We begin by briefly sketching the relevant
economics theory, which we then apply to a case study
of a dissolved oxygen impaired stream segment in the
Flint River Basin. Preliminary results from our study
show that reaching the targeted water quality by
increasing flows may be cost-effective in comparison to
TMDL-mandated pollutant removal alternatives. We
conclude with some observations about the general
applicability of the results.
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Date
2003-04
Extent
Resource Type
Text
Resource Subtype
Proceedings