Geospatial Analysis and Mapping
Geospatial Analysis and Mapping
The Upper Midwest Water Science Center utilizes geospatial information analyses and tools to enhance the science and products we deliver. Whether it's tracking a contaminant down a stream or mapping our findings so they can be more easily understood, we use our geospatial expertise to create products that are focused on advancing our science and meeting our cooperators’ needs. Our specialized Web Informatics and Mapping (WIM) team develops web-based tools that support USGS science and other federal science initiatives. They use their advanced knowledge of cartography and web technologies to produce full-featured database applications, limited-scope data visualizations, digital cartography, data management and analysis, and decision support.
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Milwaukee Metropolitan Sewerage District (MMSD) Watercourse Corridor Study
Since 2000, the USGS and MMSD have been partners in the Milwaukee Area Watercourse Corridor Study. The USGS has applied a multi-disciplinary approach to monitor and assess stream water quality within studies of aquatic communities, geomorphology and habitat, water and sediment, and streamflow. Results are provided to MMSD and watershed management agencies for planning and decision-making.
MMSD Watercourse Corridor Study: Geomorphology and Sediment Studies Related to Stream and Estuary Rehabilitation
Geomorphology and habitat studies related to stream and estuary rehabilitation consist of three subproject areas: evaluating the efficacy of fish passage restoration efforts (across multiple watersheds), a targeted assessment of fish passage in the Underwood Creek watershed, and characterization of the Milwaukee River estuary.
Development of a FluEgg Model for the St. Croix River
The USGS partnered with the Minnesota Department of Natural Resources to collect hydraulic and water chemistry data in the lower St. Croix River for development of a model that predicts the probability of successful egg hatching and survival of juvenile invasive carp over a range of water temperature and streamflow conditions.
TC Chamberlin Modeling Center
The TC Chamberlin Modeling Center provides one-stop access to advanced computing so no project is limited by a lack of computer power. The Center can provide hardware access, assistance with migration and implementation, and training. We also develop, test, and disseminate state-of-the-art computational and analytical techniques and tools so models can be more effectively used in decision-making.
SPARROW modeling: Great Lakes, Mississippi River, Ohio River, and Red River Basins
SPARROW models for the Great Lakes, Ohio River, Upper Mississippi River, and Red River Basins predict long-term mean annual loads, yields, concentrations, and source contributions of water, nitrogen, phosphorus, and sediment throughout the Midwest.
SPARROW nutrient modeling: Mississippi/Atchafalaya River Basin (MARB)
SPARROW models for the Mississippi/Atchafalaya River Basin (MARB) predict long-term average loads, concentrations, yields, and source contributions of water, nitrogen, phosphorus, and suspended sediment to the Gulf of Mexico.
SPARROW nutrient modeling: Binational (US/Canada) models
SPARROW phosphorus and nitrogen models are being developed for the entire Great Lakes Basin and the Upper Midwest part of the U.S., and the Red and Assiniboine River Basin, as part of a Binational project between the USGS and the International Joint Commission (IJC) and National Research Council (NRC) of Canada.
Duluth streams geomorphic assessment and stream response to the 2012 flood
This study identified major geomorphic processes and factors for Duluth-area streams, assessed their sensitivity to geomorphic change, summarized the effects of the 2012 flood. It also identified channel processes, sediment dynamics, and geomorphic setting can be used to assist managers in post-flood reconstruction activities and stream restoration.
Acoustics
Upper Midwest Water Science Center uses acoustic meters for making streamflow measurements. Wading measurements are done using a modified top setting wading rod equipped with an acoustic Doppler velocimeter (ADV). Acoustic Doppler current profilers (ADCP) are used when measurement depths are too deep to wade. ADCP measurements can either be made with a tether or cableway or deployed on a manned...
Estimating Lake Water Clarity
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS), in cooperation with the Michigan Department of Environmental Quality (MDEQ), use a technique modeled after Olmanson and others (2001) to predict water clarity and corresponding trophic state index (TSI) values based on the Carlson's Trophic State Index (TSI) in inland lakes greater than 20 acres using satellite remote sensing data. Measurements from the...