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Baylor > CRASR Home > Profiles > Faculty & Staff > Bryan Brooks > Reservoir Transition Zones

Reservoir Transition Zones

Project Title: Transition Zone Index Development and Validation Project
Funding Agency & Period: TCEQ to BRA & Baylor, 2004-2007
Project Management: Dania Drogolewicz, Larry Koenig (TCEQ), Gayle Haecker (BRA), Bryan Brooks, Robert Doyle (Baylor)
Funding Summary: $600,000

Project Summary: Reservoirs are typically considered to be divided into riverine, transition and lacustrine zones along the longitudinal flow path of water. While we conceptually understand that these zones are hydrodynamically, chemically and biologically distinct, there are currently regulated as a single water type. Needed are tools to provide objective criteria for dividing the reservoir into ecologically meaningful zones, and to develop tools to that could provide a means for regulating such zones. Baylor University and the Brazos River Authority have been funded by TCEQ for a three-phase project to address this issue.

Phase 1. TZI Development.

A. Develop a Conceptual Transition Zone Index based on literature knowledge of how morphometry, hydrology, and biology are likely to impact natural variability in water chemistry and WQ parameters using state of the art GIS tools.

B. Develop a Numeric TZI based on existing and/or newly generated data providing statistical associations between WQ (especially DO), variability hydrology, meteorology, and bathymetry. We will also collect water column 24h cycle data on an initial subset of four reservoirs (Aquilla, Cedar Creek, Lewisville & Conroe) and relate this to 24h deployment data.

C. Public domain models for these transition zones and coves will be reviewed, evaluated and key parameters identified to help develop sensitive parameters for this TZI.

Phase 2. TZI Refinement.

Phase 2 will involve additional sampling on the initial set of reservoirs (reservoirs to be determined, summer 2006), and collection of data on an additional group of reservoirs to allow refinement of the TZI. In addition, a draft set of water quality standards will be developed for the TZ area, including backup and reference material as well as implementation and assessment recommendations. Phase II will also include finalization of a technical memo for modeling recommendations and setting up an initial TZ model.

Phase 3. TZI Validation

This phase will consist of validating the TZI through additional reservoir and stream monitoring locations on a subset of reservoirs selected across biogeographical regions. In addition, a final WQS recommendation will be prepared along with modeling and implementation procedures.