Abstracts
UA TRIF Water Sustainability Program
The COMPETITIVE GRANTS PROGRAM was suspended following fiscal year 2008/09 due to budget shortfalls. The program was in effect from fiscal year 2003/04 through 2008/09. The Grants Program, at the University of Arizona, funded interdisciplinary water research, education and outreach projects that addressed critical state water issues. The WSP Executive Committee made funding decisions based on the results of a peer review process. This process identified and encouraged innovative proposals with good potential for the development of larger proposals funded through private, state or federal entities. Abstracts for projects can be referenced below by fiscal year.
2008/09 |
2007/08 |
2006/07 |
2005/06 |
2004/05 |
2003/04 |
Competitive Grants 2008/09
Engineering for Underground Storage and Recovery of CAP Water in Northwest Pima County $45,491
Robert Arnold and Wendell Ela, Chemical & Environmental Engineering
The project investigates engineering challenges attendant to aquifer storage and recovery (ASR) of treated CAP water by northwest Pima County utilities. ASR will facilitate full use of their contractual CAP allotment by the utilities. Problems motivating the study include (i) water loss during reverse osmosis for salinity reduction, (ii) well scaling/fouling associated with ASR of treated CAP water, and (iii) formation of disinfection by-products when CAP water is chlorinated to control fouling. Technical solutions to be investigated include chemical and membrane softening, ion exchange, reverse osmosis, pH adjustment, water blending, variable split-stream treatments, and chlorine dose adjustments.
Impact of Temperature and Precipitation Events on Recreational Water Quality in the State of Arizona $45,491
Kelly Bright and Chuck Gerba, Soil, Water & Environmental Science
Human-induced global climate changes caused by greenhouse gases are predicted to cause worldwide increases in temperature and precipitation. These may cause an increase in waterborne disease outbreaks through contamination events and a rise in the occurrence of thermotolerant waterborne pathogens. We propose to conduct a multi-seasonal surveillance study of the bacteria Vibrio cholerae (non-O1/non-O139) and Aeromonas spp. and the parasite Naegleria fowleri from recreational surface waters with varying physical, chemical and biological characteristics from around Arizona to determine their occurrence and distribution and to attempt to correlate these with global climate change factors such as temperature and precipitation events.
Simple Techniques for Backyard Water Harvesting: An Online Instruction Module $44,781
Theresa Crimmins and Katherine Waser, Office of Arid Lands Studies
Water is a scarce commodity throughout Arizona. Rainwater when properly harvested can supply a large percentage of the water used for landscaping purposes. The proposed on-line learning module will communicate techniques for backyard water harvesting using video, animations, and supplemental downloadable documents. These materials are intended for use by homeowners, neighborhood associations, and by established programs such as Mater Watershed Stewards, Master Gardeners, UA Extensions WaterSmart workshops.
Use of Secondarily Treated Wastewater and Ground Water in Algae Photobioreactors for Biofuel Production $47,498
Joel Cuello, Agricultural & Biosystems Engineering, Kim Ogden, Chemical & Environmental Engineering
This study has two specific aims: 1) to use the algae Botryococcus braunii to remove nitrogen and phosphorus from secondarily-treated wastewater coming from a treatment plant; and 2) to use the algae Chlorophyceae Dunaliella tertiolecta grown in groundwater from Tucson Water or brackish groundwater to determine if alternative water sources can be used in photobioreactors to produce biofuels. Specifically, how non-purified water and wastewater affect algae wastewater bioremediation, algae growth, and algae biofuel production will be investigated. The proposed system addresses the two critical needs of the state for water reuse and production of renewable biofuel.
Rainwater Harvesting Certificate Program and Demonstration Project $5,746
Cado Daily, Cochise County, Candice Rupprecht, Master Watershed Stewards, Cynthia Warzecha, Coconino County Cooperative Extension
This certificate program will increase the level of knowledge and application by participants on the collection and non-potable use of rainwater, and will result in the construction of multiple rainwater collection systems for public demonstrations. Classes will be offered to the public and participants who complete all classes will be awarded a certificate. Participants will construct a passive collection of berms, swales and gabions; a 55 gallon rainbarrel for participant take-home; and two large containerized systems. Materials created for class can be modified for use in other areas of the state, or county-wide.
Anammox for Nutrient Nitrogen Removal from Sludge Liquors $53,450
James Field and Reyes Sierra, Chemical & Environmental Engineering
Sludge liquors from the dewatering of digested sludge contain high concentrations of ammonia which account for 15-25% of the N load at municipal wastewater treatment plants. This load poses a serious challenge to existing nutrient removal technologies. The project aims to demonstrate the feasibility of the recently discovered anaerobic ammonium oxidation (anammox) process, in which bacteria oxidize ammonium to benign dinitrogen gas (N2) under anaerobic conditions, as an economical and sustainable alternative to nitrogen nutrient removal from sludge liquors.
Yuma Desalting Operations, Water Quality and Vegetation Distribution in the Cienega de Santa Clara $30,895
Karl Flessa, Geosciences
Water Quality and vegetation in the Cienega De Santa Clara wetlands will be monitored in order to predict how water quality, in particular salinity, affects the density and distribution of marsh vegetation. The bird diversity of the wetlands, located in Sonora, Mexico, makes the area a top conservation priority in the Colorado River delta (Zamora-Arroyo et al. 2005). The Cienega's principal source of water is brackish groundwater from Arizona's Wellton-Mohwak Irrigation District. Critical bird habitat could be affected if the Yuma Desalting Plant (YDP) is re-started. We will generate the baseline water quality data necessary for evaluating the possible effects of re-starting the YDP. We will expand the previous water quality research program by evaluating vegetation response to variation in water quality.
Spatial and Temporal Variability of Clogging on Stream-Aquifer Interaction in the Upper Santa Cruz Valley $30,266
Tom Meixner, Hydrology & Water Resources, Paul Sheppard, Laboratory of Tree-Ring Research
In water-limited environments effluent is a valuable water source for riparian restoration and aquifer recharge. For example, in-stream infiltration of effluent in the Upper Santa Cruz River aids in maintaining safe-yield conditions in the Santa Cruz AMA (SCAMA). With results from an existing TRIF supported project we have documented that clogging does occur and influences recharge and that the impact of clogging varies over time. In this study we propose to document the impact of effluent on riparian vegetation and quantify the spatial and temporal variability of clogging on riparian water use. Specifically, we will determine the influence of effluent on uptake by trees and estimate the spatial and temporal influence of clogging on recharge rates. We will do so by addressing four questions. First, to what degree do trees utilize effluent? Second, how does the influence of effluent on vegetation vary with distance from the river? Third, what is the spatial and temporal variability of stream bed clogging and recharge within the Santa Cruz River? Fourth, how can a high-resolution snapshot of clogging be coupled with the tree ring analysis to develop a robust understanding of an effluent dominated river system?
Climate Change Adaptation Strategy Research Project $47,976
Jonathan Overpeck, Institute for the Study of Planet Earth, Arizona Research Labs
This project will provide the basic climate change information needed to support the pending Governor Napolitano climate change adaptation strategy initiative. PI Overpeck is assisting the Governor's team in this effort, and has already begun a collaborative effort to develop an enhanced climate change web resource for the state. We will extend this effort to work with scientists and stakeholders across the state - especially those relating to water resources and those involved with the yet-to-be-announced Governor's climate change adaptation working group - to ensure that the climate change web resource is optimal for supporting climate change adaptation strategy discussions.
Detection and Intervention of Vulnerable Tap Water Via Customer Surveillance and Enhanced Water Quality Monitoring $43,166
Ian Pepper, Soil, Water & Environmental Science, Mary Derby, Epidemiology
EPA estimates that 16.4 million enteric illnesses attributable to drinking water occur annually, with a recent increase of illnesses linked to contaminated groundwater sources. In response to Homeland Security Presidential Directive-9, and EPA and CDC's recommendations to enhance water surveillance and monitoring programs, water utilities are evaluating water quality indicators under their control, such as customer reports of illness that can be used to enhance surveillance. Here, we will develop a water utility monitoring surveillance protocol driven by customer reports of illness and water quality monitoring for early detection and intervention of compromised tap water. In addition to customer surveillance, we will also evaluate indigenous baseline microbial water quality in municipal tap water utilizing molecular methods.
Seasonal Reclaimed Water Quality: An Assessment of Nutrient, Chemical and Biological Variability $35,430
Channah Rock and James Walworth, Soil, Water & Environmental Science
Increasing demands on limited water resources have made wastewater reclamation for municipal irrigation an attractive option for extending water supplies in the semiarid Southwest. However, limited knowledge is available on the seasonality of chemical and microbial constituents found in reclaimed water. This study will define water quality markers by quantifying indicator organisms and variations of chemical constituents in reclaimed water delivered to four end-users in southern Arizona. This study will explore spatial and temporal variations in microbial contamination and in addition, will aid in a better understanding of chemical impacts and potential consequences relating to the environment and society.
Preliminary Evaluation of Antibiotic and Illicit Drug Contaminants in the Colorado River and Their Potential for Food Chain Transfer $14,400
Charles Sanchez, Yuma Agricultutal Center
Several antibiotics and illicit drugs have been detected in portions of the Colorado River and in one significant waste stream tributary (Las Vegas Wash). Furthermore, one or more of these chemicals has been detected in the sediments and plant material collected from the Las Vegas Wash. Antibiotics present in the environment can produce resistance in microorganisms which could have a potentially drastic effect on human health. In addition, while the ecotoxicological significance of trace levels of illicit drugs in surface water are not well understood, their presence cannot be dismissed outright because of their potential to adversely affect biota during prolonged exposure. In this project, we will gain preliminary information on distribution of these compounds in the Colorado River as affected by location to urban/suburban discharges and season. We also wish to evaluate the potential for food chain transfer into edible food plants from irrigation water. This information is a prerequisite for any possible effort to reduce human exposure to these pharmaceuticals.
Optimum and Minimum Irrigation Requirements of Landscape Trees $20,959
Ursula Schuch, Plant Science, Ed Martin, Maricopa Agricultural Center, Rick Gibson, Pinal County Cooperative Extension
This long-term research and demonstration project addresses the area of water conservation. The objectives of the project are to determine how nine species of commonly used landscape trees will perform in Maricopa, Arizona, when supplied with irrigation at 30%, 50% or 75% of reference evapotranspiration (ETo). With trees established in January 2007 and irrigation treatments starting in February 2008, data will be collected for the next five years to document differences in growth and overall appearance and the site will be used for educating and training of landscape professionals, policy makers, and home owners on water conservation in urban landscapes.
Science Education That Makes a Difference - through Inspired Teacher Leaders $34,479
Kerry Schwartz, Water Resources Research Center
By engaging teacher leaders in bringing water education into local schools, including feeder schools, we will create a network of water champions in the Greater Phoenix Area. Water education marketing and delivery is ineffective if approached from a top down perspective. This project creates an on-the-ground, grassroots network of individuals responsible for bringing water education resources and opportunities to their area schools and communities. By investing in this network of water champions the Water Sustainability Program (WSP) will have a delivery network to introduce new water initiatives to the Greater Phoenix Area. The WSP program's goal of establishing UA water programs in the valley will be realized through this grassroots approach.
Ground Water Age Dating for Water Budget Development in the Show Low Watershed, Navajo County $4,800
Kristine Uhlman, Water Resources Research Center, Chris Eastoe, Geosciences, Steve Campbell, Navajo County Cooperative Extension
The vulnerability of water resources to climate change in the Show Low Creek Watershed will be assessed by isotopic age-dating. Samples will be collected from local water supply wells and from a spring feeding Billy Creek. Samples will be analyzed for naturally occurring Carbon-14, Oxygen, and Hydrogen isotopes. The analysis will identify water source, resident time in the aquifer, and length of time since the water fell as precipitation to recharge the aquifer. Ground water age dating of water resources will assist resource managers and policy makers in developing a water budget to balance competing resource demands.
Arizona Rivers' High School Riparian Research Experience (RRE) Collaboration with Nemo's Surface Flow Wet/Dry Monitoring Campaign $1,810
Martha Whitaker and Jim Washburne, Hydrology & Water Resources
AZ Rivers is collaborating with NEMO, to have AZ Rivers high school students and volunteers participate in NEMO's Annual Surface Flow Wet/Dry Monitoring Campaign. This project will provide training and will purchase 12 GPS units and field supplies for 12 teams of 2 to 3 volunteers. The GPS units will be available for loan year-round to AZ Rivers teachers, students, volunteers and NEMO volunteers.
Competitive Grants 2007/08
Brine Minimization/Salt Management Using VSEP® Technology to Maximize Water Recovery $49,945
Eric Betterton, Atmospheric Sciences/Chemical & Environmental Engineering, Robert Arnold and Wendell Ela, Chemical & Environmental Engineering
Total dissolved solids (TDS) concentrations in Central Arizona Project (CAP) water are more than twice as high as those of native groundwater in the Tucson area. As the region shifts from reliance on groundwater toward use of southern Arizona's full annual allotment of CAP water, necessary for a sustainable regional water supply, RO (reverse osmosis) treatment may be needed to satisfy public preference. If RO is pursued, it will probably be applied to a portion of the region's annual CAP allotment before the RO-treated and untreated fractions are recombined and distributed. However, the efficiency of water recovery during RO treatment is limited by membrane fouling. Without pretreatment for barium ion removal, operational recoveries will be only about 0.75 (the ratio of permeate to influent flows) during RO treatment of CAP water in order to avoid precipitation of BaSO4(s). This project will develop a pilot-scale demonstration of Vibratory Shear Enhanced Processing (VSEP) technology to improve recovery.
Compound Specific Isotope Analysis of Natural Attenuation Activity in Chlorinated-Solvent Contaminated Aquifers in Arizona $23,834
Mark Brusseau, Soil, Water & Environmental Science
Chlorinated solvents are the most common contaminants at the state and federal Superfund sites in Arizona and given their myriad toxicological effects, pose a great risk to human health. The remediation of polluted soil and groundwater at the many chlorinated-solvent contaminated sites present in Arizona is of prime importance for enduring a safe and sustainable potable water supply. Monitored natural attenuation (MNA) has recently gained great interest as a low-cost approach for site remediation. The goal of this project is to enhance the viability and effectiveness of MNA for remediation of chlorinated-solvent contaminated sites in Arizona. The specific objective of this project is the development of a characteristic tool (CSI analysis) that will permit rapid and accurate screening of the suitability of using MNA for Arizona sites.
Arizona Drought Monitoring Sensitivity and Verification Analyses $47,343
Christopher Castro, Atmospheric Sciences, Michael Crimmins, Soil, Water, & Environmental Science, Gregg Garfin, Institute for the Study of Planet Earth, Arizona Research Laboratories, Francina Dominguez, SAHRA - Hydrology & Water Resources
Recent multi-year drought has awakened Arizona decision makers to the possibility of drought-induced water shortages, especially in rural communities. The Governor and the Interagency Coordinating Group (ICG), which advises the Governor on mitigation actions and drought declarations, rely upon drought status reports by the Arizona Drought Monitoring Technical Committee (MTC) to make timely decisions with far-reaching effects on water use. However, the MTC drought status calculations, though vetted through subjective assessment, are a source of uncertainty for the MTC and decision makers. This project aims to evaluate short- and long-term drought indicators, and relate them to quantifiable impacts that affect strategic decisions by Arizona stakeholders. The outcomes include: 1) validation and improvement of the drought status reporting system 2) guidance on the application of drought information to decision-making, and 3) completion of the first stage of developing regional drought prediction capability.
Developing a Volunteer-based Automated Environmental Monitoring Network $29,537
Michael Crimmins, Soil, Water & Environmental Science, Gary Woodard, SAHRA - Hydrology & Water Resources, Mark Losleben, National Phenology Network
Variability in patterns of precipitation and temperature are critically linked to variability in local water resources. Adequate monitoring of this climate variability at the watershed scale is essential to properly manage water and understand water resource dynamics, but current monitoring networks are constrained by limited staff and high instrumentation costs. Rapid growth in high-speed internet access across Arizona has created new and exciting opportunities for volunteer citizen scientists interested in environmental monitoring. Broad public interest in meteorological monitoring and the decreasing costs of environmental sensors is dramatically lowering the potential costs of gathering critical water-related data. This project proposes to explore optimal approaches to developing inexpensive, residence-based hydroclimate monitoring systems important for managing water resources and monitoring drought that provide near-real-time data on precipitation, temperature, and soil moisture.
Arizona Project WET Evaluation: Examining Impact and Developing a Computer-based Tutorial and Assessment System $49,979
Jerome D'Agostino, Educational Psychology, Kerry Schwartz, Water Resources Research Center
There is a critical need to educate citizens and future citizens about Arizona's water resources and promote the adoption of a conservation ethic and to offer education that is research-based and meets state standards and testing requirements. Project WET is the leading K-12 water education program nationally and internationally and Arizona Project WET has aligned its curriculum to state standards and added state specific relevancy. Numerous studies suggest that high-quality instruction can make a significant difference in student learning. The purpose of this project will be to (1) examine the effectiveness of Arizona Project WET (Water Education for Teachers) under a best case scenario and to (2) create an online tutorial and assessment system to supplement extant Arizona Project WET resources.
Fate of Prions in Ground Water, Reclaimed Wastewater and Land Applied Biosolids $40,262
Charles Gerba, Soil, Water & Environmental Science
Arizona depends both on ground water and reclaimed water to meet its water needs. Arizona applies 95% of the biosolids it produces to agricultural land and additional biosolids from Southern California are transported to Arizona for land application. Prions are infectious proteins that cause fatal brain disease in animals and humans. They are the most stable infectious agents known; however, there is little information on their fate in the environment. Prions present in sewage are not inactivated by chlorine and are believed to accumulate in biosolids and survive mesophilic digestion. The specific objectives of this project are to determine the persistence of prions in water and soils, their transport through soil and survival after composting and lime treatment of biosolids. This will provide information for guidance to utilities and regulatory agencies in Arizona and the Southwest for the control of prions in land applied reclaimed wastewater and biosolids.
Engineered Reversible and Regenerable, Specific and High Capacity Adsorbents for Sustainable Removal of Arsenic from Contaminated Waters $49,877
Roberto Guzman and Jerker Porath, Chemical & Environmental Engineering
The contamination of water, air and soils by heavy metal is one of our most important and challenging environmental issues. Heavy metals are toxic, carcinogenic and mutagenic. Chronic arsenic poisoning occurs on a very large scale in many parts of the world and many areas of the U.S. including Arizona. The proposed research aims at the development of removal technologies that allows the removal and capture of arsenic in a highly concentrated form that permits their eventual, easier, encapsulation or disposal as harmless precipitates. The developed arsenic adsorbents and immobilized oxidants are regenerable and thus inexpensive to implement. Metal ions have affinity for many inorganic and organic substances and such affinity is usually preserved but often modulated by immobilization to a solid support. These immobilized metal ions will function as adsorption sites for arsenate and arsenite. The project we propose may serve as a start to develop a workable technology for the solution of a tremendous environmental problem.
Tradeoffs between Enhanced Urban Storm Recharge and Water Quality: The Influence of Urban Housing Age and Density on Nutrients, Metals and Organic pollutants $49,739
Kathleen Lohse, School of Natural Resources, Paul Brooks, Jennifer McIntosh and Thomas Meixner, Hydrology & Water Resources
An increasing number of communities in Arizona, are investigating the potential for enhanced urban ephemeral channel recharge to balance their groundwater consumption and attain sustainable water yields. Currently, water managers and decision makers have limited information on the quality of this urban storm recharge and almost no information on how housing age and density may impact this quality. We propose to quantify how residential development age and density alter the quantity and quality of storm water runoff. We will use this information to develop best management practices that evaluate the tradeoffs between enhanced groundwater recharge and the increased possibility of nutrients, pathogens, metals and organic pollutants in surface and groundwater. This work will aid in the formulation of sustainable and dynamic water management strategies, planning, and best management practices for Arizona.
Stream Aquifer Interactions in Effluent Dominated Riparian Systems $49,129
Tom Meixner and James Hogan, Hydrology & Water Resources, David Meko, Laboratory for Tree Ring Research, Barron Orr, Arid Lands Studies
In water-limited environments, effluent is an increasingly viable water source for riparian restoration and aquifer recharge. Despite the beneficial uses of effluent, little is known about stream-aquifer interactions in effluent dominated systems. Specifically little is known about the development of a streambed clogging layer which could inhibit stream-aquifer interaction. Our research will focus on the Upper Santa Cruz River where effluent aids in maintaining safe-yield conditions in the Santa Cruz AMA. We seek to determine the spatial extent, regional importance, and temporal impact of effluent on riparian vegetation and groundwater recharge by addressing three questions. First, how important is streambed clogging in limiting stream water infiltration? Second, how important is effluent for aquifer recharge? Third, how has effluent influenced water availability to aquifers and riparian vegetation on decadal time scales?
Salinity and/or Sodium Hazard of Irrigation Water as an Indicator of Rapid Blight Disease Potential in Turfgrasses $23,845
Mary Olsen and David Kopec, Plant Sciences, James Walworth, Soil, Water & Environmental Science
Decreasing availability of low salinity water for irrigation has resulted in increased use of reclaimed water and saline well water in large areas of turfgrass. A new problem associated with high saline irrigation water in Arizona is the appearance of a new and unique disease of turfgrasses known as "rapid blight", caused by the pathogen Labyrinthula terrestris. It has become an increasing problem in Arizona causing severe damage to turfgrass and an increase in fungicide use. Elevated salinity of irrigation water enhances disease development, and recent results indicate that sodium chloride may be required for growth of L. terrestris. The objective of this project is to determine if salinity and/or sodium hazard of irrigation water can be used to define disease potential in turfgrasses that are differentially susceptible to salinity stress. This information will be used by turfgrass managers to predict and manage rapid blight.
Estimating Water Use: Monitoring Rural Domestic Wells with Low-cost, Near-real Time Water Metering $58,970
Susan Pater, Kim McReynolds, and Cado Daily, Cochise County Cooperative Extension, Sharon Megdal and Susanna Eden, David Quanrud, Arid Lands Studies, Gary Woodard and Ramon Vazquez, SAHRA, Hydrology & Water Resources
Lack of information on domestic well pumpage is a source of uncertainty in water policy and planning decisions. Pumpage from domestic wells is significant. There are 95,000 unmetered domestic wells in Arizona and they account for much of the groundwater pumping in many rapidly growing areas, such as the Verde Valley and Upper San Pedro. Without information, policy makers have not been able to judge the magnitude of the problem represented by unmetered domestic wells. In Cochise County specifically, planners have little confidence that the 312 gallons per person per day (gpcd) being used in the county's Babocomari Area Plan is an accurate, defensible number on which to base their decisions. This study will estimate pumping levels and patterns of water use in exempt domestic wells in Cochise County. Data will be collected and analyzed to establish and verify a credible and realistic rural water use value that can be used to resolve water planning and zoning issues and to serve as a model for replication.
Endocrine Disrupters in Wastewater and Biosolids: Occurrence, Fate and Treatment $50,000
Eduardo Sáez and Wendell Ela, Chemical & Environmental Engineering, David Quanrud, Arid Lands Studies
It is estimated that by 2025, it will be necessary to reclaim and reuse approximately 100,000 AFY of wastewater in the Tucson Active Management Area. Observations during the last decade related to residual trace organics in conventionally treated wastewater suggest that advanced treatments are requisite to the kinds of reuse applications that are now being considered. Among the myriad trace organic contaminants present in wastewater effluent, endocrine disrupting compounds (EDCs) are of greatest concern to human and environmental health. Use of reclaimed water to recharge regional aquifers and soil application of biosolids for agricultural purposes raises a concern on the final fate of EDCs. This project will quantify estrogenic activity and EDCs at various stages of wastewater treatment plants in Pima County emphasizing EDC transformations that occur in sludge digestion processes, and fate of EDCs in biosolids and soils treated with biosolids. In addition, advanced oxidation processes commonly used in disinfection operations will be assessed as possible means for destruction of EDCs in WTP effluents.
Preliminary Evaluation of Metal Contamination Sources in the Colorado River from Measurement of Lead and Uranium Isotopic Ratios $12,541
Charles Sanchez, Soil, Water & Environmental Science, John Chesley, Geosciences
The Colorado River is contaminated with low levels of potentially toxic elements, including uranium (U), lead (Pb), cadmium (Cd) and arsenic (As). The river is used both as a source of drinking water and a source of irrigation water for food crops. Accumulation of these metal elements into food crops is a health concern as potential carcinogens or causal agents of human organ dysfunction. We currently have little or no information on sources of these metals to the Colorado River. In this project, we will gain preliminary information on possible sources of U, Pb, and other metals to the Colorado River. This information is a prerequisite for any possible effort to reduce human exposure to these and other toxic elements.
San Pedro River Volunteer Monitoring, Community Watershed Alliance, Cochise County, AZ $4,895
Kristine Uhlman, Water Resources Research Center, Phil Guertin, School of Natural Resources
The City of Benson, within the Benson subwatershed, could see a ten-fold increase in population in coming years. Development of a regional water budget is critical for the long-term welfare of the aquifer that is the sole water supply source and the citizens who depend on it. Volunteers from the Community Watershed Alliance (CWA) will be given training and the instrumentation needed to develop a water budget for their area. This monitoring project will provide important base-line information and long-term records to help with water resource management decisions. Volunteer efforts will include mapping wet/dry reaches of the San Pedro prior to the monsoon, coordinating access permission during the project implementation, continuation of the riparian vegetation monitoring established in 2006, community outreach and training, and data management.
'Paper Water' Demystified: An Economic Evaluation of CAGRD Spatial Dynamics $26,434
Paul Wilson, Agricultural & Resource Economics, Phillip Guertin, School of Natural Resources, Sharon Megdal, Water Resources Research Center/Agricultural & Resource Economics
The sizable population growth anticipated in the central corridor between Phoenix and Tucson over the next several decades presents state water managers with a host of challenges related to water sustainability. One such challenge is to ensure that these new developments rely upon renewable water sources. To do so, a system of water accounting through the Central Arizona Groundwater Replenishment District (CAGRD) has evolved to release developers from the costly search for the physical availability of renewable water sources to meet demand. Yet water supply documented on paper ("paper water") does not always match up with physically available water ("wet water"). While state water managers anticipate a policy change related to this issue in the future the short- and long-term economic implications of the spatial disconnect between paper water and wet water remain unclear. Our spatial economic analysis of the CAGRD program over the 2000-2040 time period, will be a timely study for policy makers as they grapple with these important issues. A detailed economic assessment and vulnerability maps, outputs from this project, will provide policy makers with a clearer understanding of the future economic role of the CAGRD in the central corridor of Arizona.
Competitive Grants 2006/07
Maximizing Water Recovery during Reverse Osmosis Treatment of Central Arizona Project (CAP) Water $43,664
Robert Arnold and Wendell Ela, Chemical & Environmental Engineering, Martin Yoklic, Soil, Water & Environmental Science
Without treatment for salinity control, full use of the southern Arizona CAP entitlement will add 200,000 tons of salt to the Tucson Active Management Area (TAMA) each year. Reverse osmosis (RO) is the most probable method of salinity management. Previously tested RO methods would yield a brine volume of ~ 40,000 AFY. The estimated value of lost water is $40 M/year. The project is an investigation of methods to minimize membrane fouling/scaling while maximizing water recovery (minimizing brine volume) during RO treatment of CAP water.
Spanish Translation and Reprints of the Booklet, Arizona: Know your Water (2004) $23,100
Janick Artiola, Soil, Water & Environmental Science, Katherine Farrell-Poe, Agricultural & Biosystems Engineering
This funding request aims at facilitating the transfer of water-related information in the form of a TRIF funded publication (Arizona: Know your Water (2004)) to interested Arizona consumers. A Spanish translation of this popular booklet would provide much needed information on home water treatment alternatives to the Spanish-speaking population of Arizona. A new printing of the English version will further enhance the distribution of a well received consumer water information booklet to the general public.
Assessing impacts of Arizona Wildfires on Watershed and Riparian Hydrologic and Geomorphic Processes $49,620
Victor Baker, Hydrology & Water Resources
This project will assess post-wildfire hydrologic and geomorphic process changes through the study of post-fire floods and debris flow. We will collect and analyze data from various sources to establish factors influencing the occurrence of post-fire floods and debris flows, to evaluate the effectiveness and accuracy of predictions models, and to evaluate post-fire flood discharges with regional paleoflood magnitudes to assess long-term hydrologic variations. Results will provide land managers, policy planners and others with new methods for predicting, planning and mitigating post-fire geologic hazards, and information for long-term water quality and supply planning.
Electrocoagulation Applied to Water Conservation & Wastewater Treatment $75,000
James Baygents and James Farrell, Chemical & Environmental Engineering
Intel and others in the semiconductor industry are interested in developing a robust, cost effective water treatment technology that has broad applicability to both water conservation and wastewater treatment. The new treatment technology will reduce the number and variety of water treatment unit operations that are currently required, and will enable onsite reuse of much of the water used in semiconductor manufacturing. Electrocoagulation (EC) is one of the few technologies that may be capable of cost effectively meeting these requirements.
Water Discovery (Water Education Exhibits & Discovery Carts) $45,677
Carla Bitter and Kyle Carpenter, SAHRA - Hydrology & Water Resources
In an effort to advance public understanding of crucial water issues, SAHRA at the University of Arizona in cooperation with The Phoenix Zoo propose development and construction of two stationary and two mobile water education exhibits at The Phoenix Zoo. These exhibits will provide hands-on demonstration areas for engaging zoo visitors with water issues vital to our region in an entertaining and informal setting. Zoo staff and volunteers will participate in water workshops to learn how to facilitate activities and programs around the exhibits to enhance visitor's knowledge of Arizona water quality, water conservation, and basic hydrology on the Zoo's Arizona Trail.
Modeling Outdoor Residential Water Use $40,111
Bonnie G. Colby, Agricultural & Resource Economics
We propose a pilot study in the Tucson metro area to model the drivers of outdoor residential water demand. This study will examine the housing structure, socio-economic, climatic, and environmental drivers of outdoor water demand using multiple sources of data, some provided specifically for this project by government partners. Significantly, we will not only investigate how housing structure and demographics shape demand, but also how nearby non-residential vegetation (undeveloped lots, riparian corridors, golf courses, and parks) and the extent of native vegetation at the lot level, impacts homeowners' outdoor water use. The results of this research will inform water management, open space conservation and riparian restoration policies, and development and landscaping guidelines in both urban and rural areas around Arizona.
Developing a Volunteer Precipitation Monitoring Program for Arizona $34,062
Michael Crimmins, Soil, Water, & Environmental Science
A volunteer, citizen-based precipitation monitoring network is proposed to complement existing official climate monitoring networks across Arizona. The additional denser spatial coverage of observations provided by volunteers will help natural resource managers (e.g. flood control officials, water resources managers, drought monitoring officials) make more informed decisions regarding the management of water and land resources. This program also provides the opportunity to engage volunteers as 'Citizen Scientists' bringing them into the data collection and research process with respect to climate variability and Arizona water resources.
High Capacity, Environmentally Benign Sorbents for Treating Arsenic Regenerant Streams $42,500
Wendell Ela and Eduardo Sáez, Chemical & Environmental Engineering
Current technologies for the removal of arsenic from drinking water rely primarily on the use of sorbents utilizing iron-based surfaces. The iron-based sorbents are non-regenerable and, when saturated, will typically be disposed in non-hazardous landfills. When these sorbents are landfill disposed, the iron is readily reduced to the more soluble Fe(II) state, thus remobilizing the arsenic. This project will investigate non-iron based sorbents for treating the arsenic bearing brine streams produced when re-usable sorbents are regenerated. The project aim is to identify and/or develop stable sorbents that can selectively sorb arsenic from a regenerant brine and subsequently retain it (with or without stabilization) under landfill disposal conditions.
On-line Access to Distance-Learning Tools for Watershed Stewardship in Rural Arizona $41,469
Robert Emanuel, Arizona Cooperative Extension, Garry Forger, Learning Technologies Center, George Zaimes, School of Natural Resources, Michael Crimmins, Soil, Water, & Environmental Science
The Arizona Master Watershed Steward Program-a partnership of the Arizona Cooperative Extension and the Arizona Department of Environmental Quality-provides community-driven outreach on watershed management to residents of Arizona. The program, however, has additional goals in that it seeks to increase its reach into rural and isolated areas and enhance skills-based learning to those populations. The Program plans to utilize distance-learning tools to enhance learning during the periods between the weekly or monthly classes that the program offers to the public. The Learning Technologies Center and Arizona Cooperative Extension will collaborate to achieve these goals.
Bioremediation of Hexavalent Uranium Plumes with Inorganic Electron Donors $52,762
Jim Field, Chemical & Environmental Engineering
Hexavalent uranium (U(VI)) is a groundwater containment of concern in Arizona. The goal of this project is to demonstrate that U(VI) can be removed from groundwater by microbial reduction to insoluble uraninite. The project contemplates the use of elemental sulfur (S0) as an inexpensive electron-donating compound to drive the microbial reaction. S0 is inexpensive and is available in granulated forms that are suitable for a flow through permeable reactive barrier treating contaminated plumes.
Valuation of Binational Effluent in the Upper Santa Cruz Basin: Estimating Willingness to Pay $39,552
George Frisvold, Agricultural & Resource Economics, Terry Sprouse, Water Resources Research Center
Effluent originating in Mexico, but treated and used in Santa Cruz County, Arizona provides many services to southern Arizona - recharging aquifers, sustaining a riparian corridor, attracting tourists, and increasing land values. A FY 2005 WSP project provides a broad assessment of the value of the riparian corridor to the community. This project focuses on directly estimating willingness to pay for the Mexican effluent and its contribution to the riparian corridor, using a contingent valuation survey. Comparative analysis of prices paid for effluent in other locales will also be used to assess willingness to pay for effluent for other uses.
Control of Emerging Waterborne Parasites: Naegleria fowleri $62,741
Charles Gerba, Soil, Water & Environmental Science
Our goal is to reduce the risk of Naegleria fowleri exposure in Arizona drinking water. Our research suggests that 8% of municipal drinking water supply wells in Arizona are contaminated by N. fowleri. The recent deaths of two Arizona children were linked to unchlorinated well water. Our objectives are to develop guidelines for drinking water disinfection and removal of N. fowleri by faucet mounted point-of-use (POU) devices. These will be accomplished by determining Ct (chlorine concentration X time) values and UV light dose requirements for inactivation of N. fowleri in drinking water. Consumer available POU units will also be assessed.
Watershed Rainfall, Ground Water Usage, Riparian Stream Flow and Vegetation Monitoring, Middle San Pedro River Basin, Cochise County, AZ $2,500
Phil Guertin and Kristine Uhlman, School of Natural Resources
This project will assist volunteers from the Community Watershed Alliance (CWA), a partnership of private citizen stakeholders from 5 communities and land-use managers in the Middle San Pedro Watershed by providing instrumentation and training to develop a water budget for their area. Volunteer efforts will include measuring rainfall, intermittent stream flow in response to periodic rainfall, riparian vegetation, and ground water extraction. This project will place 20 rain gages, 10 ground water flow meters, 6 stream flow observation stations across the watershed, and provide training for monitoring riparian vegetation in the Middle San Pedro.
Groundwater Sources, Flowpaths and Residence Times in the Middle Verde River Watershed $43,721
James Hogan and Tom Meixner, Hydrology & Water Resources
We propose to use a suite of naturally occurring isotopic tracers to constrain groundwater sources, flowpaths, and residence times in order to improve the conceptual understanding of basin hydrogeology and better estimate recharge rates within the middle Verde River Watershed. Specifically we will focus on (1) determining the hydrologic connection between aquifer units in the Coconino Plateau recharge zone and the Verde Valley regional aquifer, and (2) understanding how these water sources and flowpaths contribute to and sustain baseflow within the Verde River. The proposed research will improve understanding of groundwater resources within the Verde Valley and will complement ongoing research supported by the USGS, the Arizona Water Institute and SAHRA.
Salinity Induced Disease of Turfgrass $9,464
Mary Olsen and Jeff Gilbert, Plant Sciences
A new disease of turfgrass, "rapid blight", is problematic in Arizona in coolseason turfgrasses irrigated with high salinity irrigation water. The causal organism, Labyrinthula terrestris, is now known to be associated with Bermudagrasses as well. Recent laboratory research has shown that elevated sodium chloride is required for disease development while other salts in irrigation water, including potassium and calcium salts, do not cause disease development. Preliminary evidence in the field suggests that disease may be induced in turfgrasses when salinity is increased indicating that the pathogen is present but not active. The purpose of this project is to determine if L. terrestris infection can be induced with sodium salts in the field. Field sites will be amended with different salts to elevated salinities and turfgrasses subsequently sampled for colonization by L. terrestris. Companion laboratory trials will be conducted in salt amended media and in inoculated seedlings to determine if sodium is a requirement for disease development and/or growth of the pathogen and if anions other than sodium actually suppress disease.
Predicting Groundwater Vulnerability to Nitrate in Arizona $69,992
Tauhidur Rahman, Agricultural & Resource Economics, Kristine Uhlman, School of Natural Resources
The purpose of this project is to (1) develop appropriate statistical models to predict vulnerability of groundwater to nitrate concentrations in Arizona and to (2) generate "probability maps" that delineate areas of Arizona according to the probability of detecting nitrate concentrations. The analysis will inform the ADEQ and other decision-makers as to the magnitude, extent, distribution, and uncertainty of current and anticipated nitrate risks, and can help regional and local water managers protect water supplies by targeting land-use planning solutions and implementing monitoring programs where ground water may be vulnerable.
Mapping Accumulation of Soil Salinity in Landscapes Irrigated with Reclaimed Water $31,154
Ursula Schuch, Plant Sciences, James Walworth, Soil, Water & Environmental Sciences
The proposed research aims to understand how long-term use of reclaimed water affects soil quality and plant performance in landscapes. Soil salinity of landscape sites irrigated for five or more years with reclaimed or potable water will be mapped using soil samples and EM38 technology which uses electromagnetic induction sensors to measure soil salinity in situ. This information can be used to develop management strategies that prevent degradation of soil structure and accumulation of salts in the root zone as sources of irrigation water increase in salinity.
Estimating Arizona's Water Reserves from Space-borne Gravity Observations $32,825
Peter Troch, Hydrology & Water Resources
Total water storage is a fundamental hydrologic state of the river basin and responds to atmospheric forcing on seasonal to inter-annual time scales. Understanding how anomalies in the basin's total water storage relate to hydrologic extremes (e.g. droughts) is an important issue in managing our water resources. The proposed research will make significant contributions to our capacity to estimate total water storage dynamics across the state of Arizona. In March 2002, NASA and DLR launched the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) twin satellites to observe, with unprecedented accuracy, monthly changes in the Earth's gravity field. Over land, one can adjust the signal for all known processes that affect gravity, producing a signal closely related to changes in total water storage. The predicted life time of GRACE is 8-10 years, so the expected outcome of the project is a prognostic tool for water storage change across Arizona up to 2010.
Quantifying Generational Effects of Endocrine Disruption in Bonytail Chub (Gila elegans) Exposed to Secondarily-Treated Wastewater $51,174
David Walker, Soil, Water & Environmental Science
We have proven that a 2/3 dose of wastewater collected from the Santa Cruz River causes androgenization of female and feminization of male bonytail chub after a period of 3 months. This is the first study to quantify this effect by comparing treated fish to controls and while this ground-breaking work infers reproductive impairment, the only way to quantify this is to induce spawning and examine fecundity of treatment compared to control fish. We will also examine sex ratios and potential endocrine disruption of the F2 generation. This would greatly increase statistical power and relevance of our original work.
Implementation of Efficient Surface Irrigation Practices in the Lower Colorado River Region $40,000
Dawit Zerihun and Charles A. Sanchez, Yuma Agricultural Center
Surface irrigation is the principal method of irrigation practiced in the lower Colorado River region. Recent research has demonstrated that there is potential for substantial improvement in surface irrigation performance through the implementation of improved management practices and guidelines we have developed in our research program. However, widespread adaptation of these practices by growers has not yet occurred. This project seeks to hasten the transfer of this technology by overcoming existing obstacles to adaptation and by providing bilingual outreach and training to growers and irrigators in the region.
Competitive Grants 2005/06
Novel Desalination Technology For Potable Water Production $49,981
James C. Baygents, Chemical & Environmental Engineering,
The objective of the proposed work is to develop and test a novel process technology for the recovery of potable water from aqueous feed streams of high ionic strength (e.g. saltwater and brackish waters). The basic separation scheme is predicated on multiple effect evaporation, an established method for desalination (Rubin, et al. 1973). However, the new process and equipment are radically different from conventional designs. This new approach involves lower capital and operating costs, and permits the use of inexpensive (essentially free) thermal energy sources, such as waste heat from power plants. If successful, the proposed project shall dramatically lower the cost of evaporative desalination, and make it the method of choice for fresh water production.
Screening Tools To Assess The Feasibility Of Monitored Attenuation For Remediation Of Chlorinated-Solvent Contaminated Groundwater $36,424
Mark Brusseau, Soil, Water & Environmental Sciences and Hydrology & Water Resources, Jim Field, Chemical & Environmental Engineering
Chlorinated solvents are the most common contaminants at the state and federal Superfund sites in Arizona and, given their myriad toxicological effects, pose a great risk to human health. The remediation of polluted soil and groundwater at the many chlorinated-solvent contaminated sites present in Arizona is of prime importance for ensuring a safe and sustainable potable water supply. Monitored attenuation (MNA) has recently gained great interest as a low-cost, low-tech approach for site remediation. Characterizing the occurrence, magnitude, and rate of microbial transformation processes is critical to evaluating the feasibility of MNA for a given site. The goal of this project is to investigate innovative, low-cost screening tools that will allow accurate evaluation of MNA feasibility for chlorinated-solvent contaminated sites in Arizona.
Arizona Project Wet Evaluation: Examining Impact And Developing Water Education Assessment Tools For Students $50,000
Jerome D'Agostino, Educational Psychology, Kerry Schwartz, Water Resources Research Center
This purpose of this project will be to (1) examine the effectiveness of Arizona Project WET (Water Education for Teachers) and to (2) develop assessment tools to measure students’ understanding of water and general science principles. Project WET presently serves as an instrumental and valuable educational resource for K-12 students and teachers to study and learn about water conservation and properties. To date, however, the effectiveness of the program has not been adequately documented, especially in Arizona schools. Besides yielding program impact information, an assessment tool will be available to gauge students’ learning of water across a variety of interventions.
Integrated Surface And Subsurface Response Of Alluvial Basins To Ephemeral Stream Channel Recharge And Urban-Focused Recharge $58,570
Jon D. Pelletier, Geosciences and Ty P. A. Ferré, Hydrology & Water Resources.
Accurate basin-scale water budgets are needed to evaluate the sustainability of water resources. Recharge is the most poorly quantified component of most water budgets. Accurate field monitoring of recharge requires carefully designed measurement networks to ensure representative and cost-effective sampling. We will determine the optimal spatial and temporal scales and distributions of recharge monitoring for the Upper San Pedro Basin of Arizona based on numerical modeling and novel direct use of soil-geomorphic maps. Our research will benefit communities within the Upper San Pedro Basin and will provide a template for monitoring network design for basins across Arizona.
Polybrominated Diphenyl Ethers In Biosolids: Assessment Of Relative Risk After Land Application $55,000
David Quanrud, Arid Lands Studies, Jon Chorover, Soil, Water & Environmental Science, Eduardo Sáez,Chemical & Environmental Engineering, Ornella Selmin,Veterinary Science & Microbiology, Cynthia Adamson, Sarver Heart Center, College of Medicine
In the work proposed, we will measure polybrominated diphenyl ethers (PBDEs) in the environment, focusing on their fate in biosolids during sludge digestion and after land application. The principal objectives of the project are to perform an initial reconnaissance study to evaluate the various sources/sinks of PBDEs in the environment; determine the presence and fate of PBDEs in biosolids before and after land application; and determine the relative human exposure risk associated with land application of biosolids versus other possible routes of PBDE exposure to humans. TRIF request: $55,000 per year for three years.
Autotrophic Denitrification For The Treatment Of Drinking Water $34,833
Reyes Sierra and Jim A. Field, Chemical & Environmental Engineering
The project proposes the development of a simple low cost biological treatment process to remove nitrate from contaminated drinking water. The autotrophic microorganisms responsible utilize elemental sulfur as an electron donor to reduce nitrate to benign dinitrogen gas. The objective of the project is to develop, model and engineer the autotrophic denitrification process for pilot testing in Arizona.
The Value Of Binational Effluent And Sustainable Watershed Management In The Upper Santa Cruz Basin $63,707
Terry Sprouse, The Water Resources Research Center and George Frisvold, Agricultural & Resource Economics
The purpose of this project is to place a value on the effluent that originates in Mexico but is treated and utilized in southern Arizona. The Mexican effluent provides many benefits to southern Arizona, for example, recharging aquifers, sustaining riparian habitat, attracting tourists and increasing land values. However, there are several potential projects that could divert the effluent from the river to other uses in both Mexico and Arizona; including an electrical generating plant in Arizona, housing developments, or re-use of the effluent in Mexico. TRIF request: $63,707 for one year.
Promoting The Adoption Of Subsurface Drip Irrigation By Arizona's Farmers $20,358
Thomas L. Thompson, Soil, Water & Environmental Science, Edward Martin, Agricultural & Biosystems Engineering, Patrick Clay, Maricopa County Cooperative Extension, Mary Olsen, Plant Pathology, Russell Tronstad, Agricultural & Resource Economics, James Walworth, Soil, Water, & Environmental Science
Funds are requested to continue operation of AZdrip, the University of Arizona Subsurface Drip Irrigation Demonstration and Research Site, at the Maricopa Agricultural Center . This project features research on and demonstration of water-saving subsurface drip irrigation on a scale relevant to commercial agriculture. The overall objective of this project is to conduct research and to demonstrate this water-saving technology to Arizona crop producers.
Competitive Grants 2004/05
Arsenic Mobilization and Transport from Water Treatment Residuals in Landfills $25,000
Wendell Ela and Eduardo Sáez, Chemical & Environmental Engineering
Current technologies for the removal of arsenic species from drinking water rely on the use of solid sorbents such as activated alumina or synthetic ferric hydroxide minerals. When the sorption capacity is reached, the arsenic-laden sorbents are disposed in non-hazardous landfills. Preliminary work in our lab has shown that these residuals will leach high arsenic concentrations under normal landfill conditions, thereby posing a renewed threat of soil and groundwater contamination. This project will quantify arsenic content in landfill leachates as dissolved species and, perhaps more importantly according to our early results, as species adsorbed on colloidal particles.
Characteristic Flood Response of a Burned Catchment: Sabino Creek Basin, Arizona $56,001
Ty Ferré and Brenda Ekwurzel, Hydrology & Water Resources, Bart Nijssen, Hydrology & Water Resources/Civil Engineering & Engineering Mechanics
Land resource managers need better post-fire impact monitoring tools and improved metrics for evaluating mitigation strategies. Using recently burned Sabino Creek Basin as our study area we will combine model simulations and field measurements to: a) determine the relative importance of changes in soils and vegetation to changes in flood response; b) evaluate the potential impact of existing fire mitigation measures on flood response; and c) develop alternative mitigation scenarios as needed. In addition, we will collaborate with the Flandrau Science Center and SAHRA to enhance a summer science camp (Camp Wildfire) and with the United States Forest Service (USFS) and SAHRA to develop a public education exhibit for display at the Sabino Canyon Visitor Center.
Perchlorate Removal from Ground and Irrigation Water Using Low-Maintenance Biofilters $28,785
Jim Field and Reyes Sierra, Chemical & Environmental Engineering
Perchlorate is an emerging water quality issue in Arizona. Perchlorate is detected in ground and surface water used for human consumption and irrigation. Natural occurring microorganisms readily metabolize perchlorate to safe end-products when supplied with suitable electron donating substrates (e-donor). The objective of this project is to develop a low maintenance biofilter system for treatment of perchlorate in contaminated water based on slow-release insoluble e-donors. Several biofilter concepts will be tested for their applicability to perchlorate removal from ground-water, irrigation water and anion exchange brine.
Patterns of Hydrologic Connectivity on a Desert Riparian Landscape $32,759
Ed Glenn, Soil, Water & Environmental Science, John Kupfer, Geography & Regional Development, Dave Meko, Laboratory of Tree-Ring Research
The restoration and conservation of riparian landscapes in arid landscapes is fundamentally linked to a working knowledge of landscape form and function. One understudied but important component is hydrologic connectivity. In this research, we will employ a combined field and experimental approach using tree rings to reconstruct hydrologic connectivity on the San Pedro National Riparian Conservation Area. Previous reconstructions of local hydrology using ring widths have not been successful so we propose the development and analysis of false-ring chronologies that could be used to indicate spatial and temporal patterns of channel drying and attendant decreases in groundwater depth.
Enhancing Water Supply Reliability through Improved Predictive Capacity and Response $73,750
Kathy Jacobs, Soil, Water & Environmental Science, Bonnie Colby, Agricultural & Resource Economics, David Meko, Laboratory of Tree-Ring Research, Bart Nijssen, Hydrology & Water Resources/Civil Engineering & Engineering Mechanics
This project is a multi-pronged approach to enhancing Arizona’s water supply reliability from the Colorado River. We will: a) assess current Bureau of Reclamation use of climate information in river modeling; b) identify strategies to better utilize paleoclimatology, climate forecasts and climate change predictions to improve water supply predictive capacity for the lower Colorado River and the Central Arizona Project; c) evaluate existing state and federal management tools to translate improved predictive capacity into enhanced supply reliability for water users and d) develop practical supply reliability strategies for use by municipalities, irrigation districts and other stakeholders.
Assessment of the Microbial Water Quality of Individual and Small Systems Groundwater Supplies in Arizona and Appropriate Treatment Technology for its Control $50,000
Martin M. Karpiscak, Office of Arid Lands Studies, Charles P. Gerba, Soil, Water & Environmental Science
Arizona has more non-disinfected drinking water supply systems than any state. All of these systems depend on groundwater, which is subject to contamination by enteric waterborne pathogens originating from septic tanks and leaking sewer lines and waterbased pathogens. In addition, Arizona has many rapidly growing areas dependent on septic tanks for treatment of household waste. Lake Havasu is the largest community in the U. S. totally dependent on septic tanks for treatment of its sewage. The goals of this project are to 1) assess the microbial quality of individual and small system non-disinfected groundwater systems in Arizona, 2) identify potential sources of contamination, and 3) evaluate appropriate technology for enhancing the microbial quality of the drinking water in these systems.
Effects of Water Quality on "Rapid Blight" Disease of Turf grass $43,065
Mary Olsen, David Kopec, Mohammad Pessarakli, Donna Bigelow, and Jeffrey Gilbert, Plant Sciences
Rapid blight is a new disease of cool season turfgrass that has been associated with poor quality water (non-potable) in Arizona and ten other states. The causal organism, a species of Labyrinthula, is a unique organism that previously has been described only in association with marine and hypersaline systems. It was described as a pathogen of turf at The University of Arizona in 2003. Our objective for this project is to determine specific components of water quality that contribute to disease development in turf in Arizona and that define the growth parameters of the pathogen.
Spanish-Language Landscape Water Conservation Program for the Green Industry $8,777
Vicki S. Richards, Pima County Cooperative Extension/Low 4 Program
A large percentage of Green Industry personnel speak Spanish. Currently, there are very few public educational programs for this sector of the industry. However, these personnel are making many of the landscape and water management decisions for commercial and residential landscapes. The Low 4 Program runs a successful, recognized landscape water conservation program for the Green Industry called $martscape. Many landscape and nursery employers would like to send additional employees to $martscape training but their employees do not speak, understand and/or read English. Funds requested would allow for printed material translation and matching funds would pay for conducting a $martscape training series with Spanish-speaking instruction.
Detection of Viruses in Drinking Water using Raman Spectroscopy $16,215
Mark R. Riley, Agricultural & Biosystems Engineering, Joseph H. Simmons, Materials Science & Engineering
The goal of this research is to develop a rapid and specific method for quantification of viruses in drinking water. Current methods for detecting disease-causing viruses in drinking water typically require many days to several weeks. We aim to use resonant surface enhanced Raman spectroscopy coupled with biochemically-mediated microbial recognition to quantify waterborne viruses. This approach will be highly specific, rapid, and could be operated as a continual monitoring scheme. This approach has the potential to quantify as little as ten’s of organisms and thus satisfies the criteria for a practical scheme to ensure the safety of drinking water.
Arsenic in Arizona: Evaluating the Economic Costs and Hydrogeologic Feasibility of Non-Treatment Methods $37,200
Steven Stewart and James Hogan, Hydrology & Water Resources
Recently the EPA lowered the arsenic drinking water standard to 10 ppb and set January 23, 2006 as the compliance deadline. To date, wellhead treatment has been the primary focus of compliance efforts. We propose to evaluate the hydrogeologic applicability and economic costs of non-treatment methods such as well modifications to seal off high-arsenic zones or improvements in yield from low-arsenic zones. Non-treatment methods typically have high initial costs, but these costs are offset by lower long-term maintenance and monitoring costs. Such methods may be especially beneficial for small providers and in the development of new groundwater resources.
Early Irrigation Termination of Cotton as a Drought Mitigation Strategy $32,842
Russell Tronstad, Agricultural & Resource Economics, Jeffrey C. Silvertooth, Soil, Water & Environmental Science
We propose to research the economic impact of growing a very reduced season cotton crop that utilizes much less water than traditional protocols. This very reduced season has never before been researched. The basis for our economic assessment will be field trials of five different irrigation termination dates and twelve modern varieties. Impacts on revenue (lint yield and quality differences) and production costs will be quantified. A primary benefit of this research is quantifying the marginal value of water for the entire cotton growth cycle, thus, identifying how to manage cotton as part of a possible drought mitigation plan.
Competitive Grants 2003/04
Estrogenic Activity in Reclaimed Water and Stormwater $50,630
Robert Arnold, Chemical & Environmental Engineering, David Quanrud, Arid Lands Studies, Kevin Lansey, Civil Engineering & Mechanics
Investigation of surface waters with high levels of effluent, and examination of estrogenic activity that may affect the reproductive systems of fish. The results will help managers regulate water reuse practices.
Arizona: Know Your Water, A Consumer's Guide to Water Sources, Quality, Regulations, and Home Water Treatment Options $37,075
Janick Artiola, Soil, Water & Environmental Science, Kathryn Farrell, Agricultural & Biosystems Engineering
Creatation of a handbook and a website to help homeowners make informed decisions about water quality and whether they may or may not need expensive treatment systems.
The Evaluation of Paleo Data to Determine Past, Present, and Future Hydrologic Variability in Arizona $53,820
Victor Baker, Hydrology & Water Resources, Jeffrey Dean, David Meko and Ronald Towner, The Laboratory of Tree-Ring Research, Juan Valdes, Civil Engineering & Engineering Mechanics
Evaluate the ancient history of water in the region to understand the variability, frequency and severity of extreme weather and climate, and their consequences in the future.
Tailored Drought Research and Educational Outreach for Arizona $47,570
Greg Garfin and Barbara Morehouse, Institute for the Study of Planet Earth, and Andrew Comrie, Geography & Regional Development
Work with the Arizona Drought Task Force to analyze drought information both regionally and through time, identify the vulnerability of communities to drought and generate education and outreach programs for stakeholders.
Improved Turf and Landscape Irrigation Management for Northern Arizona $47,570
Paul Brown, Soil, Water & Environmental Sciences, Peter Waller, Agricultural & Biosystems Engineering
Improve the efficiency of landscape irrigation in northern Arizona through a program that will include an educational website and publications, demonstration projects and workshops, and a small network of automated weather stations to monitor water demand resulting from evaporation.
Arizona Water and Pesticide Safety CD $19,110
Louis Carlo and Paul Baker, Entomology
Produce a multimedia distance-learning course, Arizona Water and Pesticide CD, detailing the use and misuse of pesticides that tend to accumulate in state waterways.
WATER: Water in Arizona, Teacher Resources $58,140
Lisa Elfring, Biochemistry & Molecular Biophysics, Elizabeth Hancock and Jean Morrill, Hydrology & Water Resources
Develop water resource kits and training to help classroom teachers effectively teach water quality to their students.
Occurrence and Control of Emerging Waterborne Pathogens in the State of Arizona $46,340
Charles Gerba, Soil, Water & Environmental Science
Evaluate two emerging and dangerous pathogens. Naegleria fowleri bacteria in water recently killed two young children. Norwalk virus, widely publicized as causing illnesses on cruise ships, also has sickened rafters on the Colorado River in the Grand Canyon.
Microbial Mechanisms for Observed Rapid and Large-Scale Dentrification in Irrigated Desert Soils: Potential Low Cost Methods to Remediate Nitrate in Soil and Groundwater $49,000
Edward Glenn, Environmental Research Lab (ERL)
Focus on study and development of management practices using conventional irrigation technology as an inexpensive way to remediate aquifers and soils contaminated with nitrates from fertilizers, mine tailings and sewage, and perchlorates from explosives manufacturing, both responsible for widespread ground-water contamination.
Hydrologic and Water Quality Modeling for Watershed Assessment and Planning $23,060
Phillip Guertin, School of Renewable Natural Resources
Improve and expand a user-friendly decision support system (the Automated Geospatial Watershed Assessment tool) that various stakeholders can use to evaluate alternative watershed management strategies.
Quantifying Mountain Front Recharge in Southeastern Arizona $52,620
James Hogan and Brenda Ekwurzel, Hydrology & Water Resources
Study natural recharge to obtain information that is crucial for developing water use strategies and riparian conservation goals.
Simulated Basin Model for Water Resource Planning and Education $108,68
Kevin Lansey, Civil Engineering & Mechanics, Paul Blowers and Wendell Ela, Chemical & Environmental Engineering, Paul Brooks and Steven Stewart, Hydrology & Water Resources, Paul Wilson, Agricultural & Resource Economics
Develop a model that managers and policy makers could use to understand the hydrology of their communities and the impact of different management options.
Evaluation of M&I Water Conservation Measures Through Actual Water Savings & Cost Benefit Analysis $29,400
Val Little, WRRC
Analyze regional, municipal and industrial water conservation programs and strategies for their actual water savings, costs and benefits. The results will create a reference document and interactive website so that decision makers can maximize water savings for dollars spent on conservation efforts.
Development of Riparian Evapotranspiration and Ecohydrologic Models to Predict Changes in and Consequences of Riparian Water Availablity $69,500
Thomas Maddock and James Shuttleworth, Hydrology & Water Resources, Travis Huxman, Ecology & Evolutionary Biology
Build a new groundwater model to predict hydrological and ecological changes in riparian zones, specifically in the San Pedro Basin.
The Water Wagon: A Mobile Laboratory and Education Center $88,400
Randall Norton and Sue Martin, Graham County Cooperative Extension, Lee Clark and Jonie Burge, Safford Agricultural Center
Modify a trailer into a mobile education center to bring water education to K-12 students in southeastern Arizona. The center will offer hands-on displays on hydrology, biology and chemistry, and possibly serve as a prototype for other mobile units in Arizona.
Mountain Block Recharge and the Hydrology of Caves: An Interactive Display $18,620
Susan Pater and Kim McReynolds, Cochise County Cooperative Extension
Develop a public educational display for Kartchner Caverns, near Benson, that explains the process of mountain block recharge and hydrology that created this and other caverns and caves.
Antibiotic-Resistant Bacteria and Endotoxins in Association with Land Application of Biosolids: Possible Impact on Quality of Groundwater Supplies and Comparison to Other routes of Work-Related and Household Exposure $55,600
Chris Rensing, Soil,Water & Environmental Sciences
Examine whether antibiotic-resistant bacteria and endotoxins in processed sewage, called biosolids and used increasingly in agriculture, pose a threat to public health.
Detection of Noncytopathogenic and Treatment Resistant Human Virus Populations in Drinking Water using Integrated Cell Culture/PCR $53,630
Kelly Reynolds, ERL
Develop a rapid, reliable method to evaluate drinking water and detect pathogenic viruses.
Reductive Destruction of Chlorinated Hydrocarbons in Modified Fuel Cells $24,500
Eduardo Saez and James Baygents, Chemical & Environmental Engineering, Brian Barbaris, Superfund researcher, J. Brent Hisky, Materials Science & Engineering, Eric Betterton, Atmospheric Science
Plan to implement a cost-effective alternative for treating sites contaminated with hazardous solvents like trichloroethylene (TCE).
Quantifying Potential Endocrine Disruption in Effluent Dominated and Effluent Dependent Waters within Arizona: Fish as Habitat Assessment Biomarkers $49,000
David Walker, ERL, Dennis McIntosh, Soil, Water & Environmental Sciences
Examine the impact of effluent from cities on wildlife habitat downstream, including chemicals that mimic estrogen and disrupt the reproductive systems of animals, especially fish, that inhabit these areas.