Precipitation-Runoff Model for Analysis of the Effects of Water Withdrawals on Streamflow
The Ipswich River model is used by state agencies, the Ipswich River Watershed Association, water suppliers, and their consultants to analyze:
- Water use
- Impacts of increasing impervious surfaces
- Basin inflow/outflow calculations
- Development of reservoir safe yield
Walden Pond
A study of Walden Pond in Concord, MA was completed to determine the potential for water quality degradation at this valuable state resource. Potential pollution sources, such as a nearby landfill and septic systems were evaluated allowing DCR to develop a plan for protection of the pond.
Aquatic Habitat Study
The Aquatic Habitat Study resulted in studies that identified streamflow factors that are significant to fisheries habitat. Two reports on this subject have been completed:
- August Median Streamflow, 1997
- Relations Between Discharge and Wetted Perimeter, 1998
This is an ongoing study, which continues to develop methods for protecting fisheries habitat. Protection of aquatic habitat is the biggest and most complex issue facing environmental agencies evaluating proposed water development projects.
Streamflow Statistics Estimation Program
This program allows anyone to determine the contributing watershed, slope, aquifer area and flows for any point on any gaged or ungaged river or stream in Massachusetts. This information, which is required to evaluate all environmental projects, used to take weeks to do by hand. It is now done in minutes via a computer program available free of charge.