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- Info
Urban watershed ecological risk assessment using GIS: A case study of the Brunette River watershed in British Columbia, Canada
| Author: |
Zandbergen, P.A. |
| Date: |
1998 |
| Periodical: |
Journal of Hazardous Materials |
| Abstract: |
Urbanization has a dramatic impact on the health of local streams. The complexity of the many stressors, pathways and ecosystem functions at risk presents a serious challenge to traditional scientific and management approaches. To overcome this complexity, this study developed a general framework and specific procedures for a screening level ecological risk assessment for urban watersheds, and applied it to the case of the Brunette River watershed, a small urban watershed of 70 km^2 in the Vancouver area of British Columbia, Canada. A generic conceptual model was developed and a set of key indicators was selected: impervious areas, riparian habitat, pollutant loadings, water quality, sediment quality, fish health and public health. Information on each of the indicators was transformed into a single dimensionless score. Two indicators (impervious areas and water quality) were selected for a more detailed evaluation of spatial and temporal patterns using a Geographic Information System. Results were displayed in hypermedia modules and presented to local watershed professionals and decision-makers as part of the ongoing development of the methodology. The integrated approach, using a limited set of key indicators and GIS maps to visualize complex scientific information, was well received as a decision support tool. |
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