Vegetative filter strip assessment in the state of Iowa

Abstract

<p>Vegetative filter strips (VFS) is one of the best management practices that uses natural processes to remove a portion of the sediment and other pollutants carried by runoff before the water enters a water-body. The project analyzes the flow accumulation of runoff with the help of Geographic Information Systems (GIS). The objectives for this project include (1) To determine the effectiveness of VFS by visual field observation and validation by flow mapping procedures in ArcGIS 9, (2) To compare the area ratios and percentage of flow along each stream segment at various resolutions for different sizes of the survey data sets, (3) Compare the flow routing for USGS 7.5 Quadrangle values and the collected data. This study is of great significance in regard to key water quality and surface runoff issues, which are gaining broad awareness while developing consciousness about effective management practices and good land stewardship values.</p>