Water Resources Research Act Program

Details for Project ID 2002MI1B

Natural Resources Integrated Information System

Institute: Michigan
Year Established: 2002 Start Date: 2002-03-01 End Date: 2003-02-28
Total Federal Funds: $39,019 Total Non-Federal Funds: $80,970

Principal Investigators: Jon Bartholic

Project Summary: Critical, Regional, or State Water Problems Area of Relevant Research Numerous federal and state agencies are increasing their emphasis on examining water problems from the watershed perspective. The watershed perspective is being emphasized in the reauthorization of the Clean Water Act, the new Farm Bill as well as several other pieces of legislation. Because of our Institutes long term position relative to national and state water programs, we function as a coordinator to assist with linkages, support education, research, and outreach with and among agencies in the broad water arena. Accordingly, we are in a unique position to facilitate watershed policy, planning, and management with a multi-disciplinary perspective. Our proposed effort includes three major thrusts. The first is the enhancement of integrated watershed systems that can be used for analysis of various management options. The second is extended education where the internet and advanced computer systems in addition to traditional conferences and workshops are used to extend new knowledge to agencies, organizations, and local level watershed and land use groups. The third involves developing a networking infrastructure to facilitate cooperation among partners such as the USDA, Natural Resource Conservation Service, USEPA, and state Departments of Natural Resources, Environmental Quality, and Agriculture, as well as township associations and county organizations. Results and Benefits We will promote the dissemination and application of results through the thrusts of extended education, networking, and strong partnerships with other organizations. Thus, an excellent opportunity exists to disseminate and assure application of knowledge. Consistent with a watershed approach, emphasis will be placed on assisting individuals in understanding the interactions of human land use practices and activities on surface and groundwater. This will be accomplished by working with local professionals, practitioners, consultants, and in educating local decision makers about watershed functions and related policy options for the facilitation of water quality protection. The extensive use of extended education over the internet using hypertext techniques will greatly facilitate the effectiveness of wide dissemination throughout the state and region relative to watershed education and applicable policies. Further, many of these modules and approaches can be used nation-wide.