A tool for estimating best management practice effectiveness for phosphorus pollution control

A best management practice (BMP) tool was developed as a part of an effort to address the phosphorus (P) pollution and associated eutrophication problem affecting the Cannonsville Reservoir, part of the New York City water supply system. P reaching the reservoir is thought to emanate from runoff from the surrounding farms, mainly as a result of manure spread on these farms. Efforts to address the problem have involved implementation of BMPs on the watersheds; however, the effectiveness of these practices is not known. This study establishes a means of estimating BMP effectiveness, based on data available in the literature, and develops a tool that allows users to obtain BMP effectiveness estimates for their respective site soil and slope conditions. The tool offers stand-alone capabilities and has the potential to be linked to a GIS. An example is presented to illustrate tool application for effectiveness-based BMP selection, with a focus on a farm within the New York City watersheds.