GIS-Aided Modeling of Nonpoint Source Pollution Impacts on Surface and Ground Waters

An application of GIS-aided modeling is done at an area in South Florida. A Geographic Information System (GIS) is interfaced with a nonpoint source pollution model to facilitate data storage, management and display; derivation of model input parameters; and effective presentation of results. Interfacing programs and menus are created through which the database is queried to derive model input parameters, and to visually present results in maps. Results for current conditions and practices show that sediments, nutrients and pesticides are present in surface runoff and ground water. Two alternatives to minimize pollution levels are evaluated, i.e., reduction of fertilizer application to the minimum required for effective agricultural growth and replacement of fertilizers with sewage sludge. In addition, the impact of urbanization of the agricultural area to the pollutant levels is tested. Both alternatives and the urbanization result in overall reduction of pollution.