Improving stream solute load estimation by the composite method: a comparative analysis using data from the Panola Mountain Research Watershed
Author(s)
Aulenbach, Brent T.
Hooper, Richard P.
Advisor(s)
Editor(s)
Hatcher, Kathryn J.
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Abstract
The setting and attainment of total maximum
daily load (TMDL) has become an important
criterion for protecting the water quality of surface waters.
Accurately estimating streamwater solute loads during
short-time intervals with limited resources is crucial to the
implementation of TMDLs. The two most common techniques
for estimating streamwater loads have shortcomings.
The period-weighted approach requires comprehensive
sampling to obtain unbiased load estimates, whereas the
regression-model method does not accurately estimate
loads during short-time intervals and typically does not
model unusual events such as combined sewer overflows
(a critical input for the TMDL approach). An improved
load estimation technique known as the composite method,
which combines aspects of both the period-weighted
approach and the regression model method, can more
accurately estimate loads during short-time intervals and
with fewer sampling requirements. This paper demonstrates
the usefulness of the composite method for estimating
streamwater loads using data from the Panola
Mountain Research Watershed near Atlanta, Georgia.
Sponsor
Sponsored by:
Georgia Environmental Protection Division
U.S. Geological Survey, Georgia Water Science Center
U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service
Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia Water Resources Institute
The University of Georgia, Water Resources Faculty
Date
2005-04
Extent
Resource Type
Text
Resource Subtype
Proceedings