Professional Project Defense: Krista M. Schultz

Modeling Road Erosion in the Upper Torreon Wash: Coupling GIS and WEPP to Predict Sediment Detachment, Transport, and Delivery

Date: November 3, 2008
Time: 1:00 pm
Location: Economics Building Room 1052

Abstract

Accurate prediction of sediment detachment, transport and delivery from road networks has historically been an expensive and time consuming task. The Water Erosion Prediction Project (WEPP) soil erosion model, allows users to predict road erosion based on specific characteristics. The approach can be applied to specific climate conditions, multiple road designs, and unique attribute information. The methodology is applied to the upper Torreon Wash located in northwestern, New Mexico. Main roads and access routes within study area are evaluated to determine the estimated sediment delivery from unpaved roads. This study incorporates results from the WEPP model to determine what impact erosion is having on the area. Analysis is designed to identify areas of intense erosion, sediment delivery to stream systems, and a case study to determine the effects of past remediation efforts. Collected data is stored and organized using geographic information systems (GIS) to visualize the spatial component, while providing effective data management, analysis, and mapping capabilities within a geographic environment. The Upper Torreon Wash is experiencing severe erosion and findings suggest that remediation efforts can have a significant impact on reducing sediment loads from existing road networks.