GSS & KWF: Advancing Non-Point Source Pollution Research
In February, GSS’s Jeff Knopf presented an innovative project focused on identifying non-point source pollution in the City of Kenai. This pilot project, conducted in collaboration with the Kenai Watershed Forum (KWF), aims to develop a GIS-based methodology for detecting non-point source pollution hotspots.
Understanding Non-Point Source Pollution
As the population grows, urban development increases, leading to the replacement of natural landscapes with impervious surfaces such as roads, parking lots, and buildings. These surfaces prevent the natural absorption and filtration of rainfall, causing runoff to flow directly into nearby waterbodies through storm drains and culverts. This shift in hydrology can have significant effects on aquatic habitats, particularly in urban areas surrounding the Kenai and Soldotna regions.
GSS SMUMN’s Role and Approach
The primary objective of this study was to test a proof of concept: Could GIS modeling be used to pinpoint areas with significant non-point source pollution contributions? By identifying these pollution hotspots, stakeholders can make informed decisions about green infrastructure solutions to mitigate their impact on water quality.
Developing a Green Infrastructure Strategy
To support better stormwater management, GSS SMUMN developed a systematic process for selecting locations suitable for nature-based stormwater solutions. The workflow for this analysis included the following key steps:
Acquiring Datasets – Gathering relevant geographic and environmental data for analysis.
Hydro-Conditioning the LiDAR DEM – Processing elevation data to enhance hydrological accuracy.
Generating Impervious Surfaces – Identifying and mapping impervious areas contributing to runoff.
Deriving Flowlines and Creating a Network – Establishing how water moves through the urban landscape.
Quantifying Impervious Surface Contributions – Assessing runoff impact at key pour points to guide green infrastructure planning.
This project is part of GSS SMUMN’s broader effort to apply geospatial analysis to environmental challenges. By integrating GIS modeling into conservation planning, our team is helping communities better understand the effects of urbanization on aquatic habitats and identify opportunities for sustainable stormwater management.
The findings from this pilot project will help inform future conservation and development efforts, ensuring that the unique and valuable water resources of the Kenai Peninsula remain healthy for generations to come.
