Nonpoint source pollution uncertainty: Stakeholder perceptions

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2010-06-01
Authors
Newman, James
Kaleita, Amy
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Kaleita, Amy
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Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering

Since 1905, the Department of Agricultural Engineering, now the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering (ABE), has been a leader in providing engineering solutions to agricultural problems in the United States and the world. The department’s original mission was to mechanize agriculture. That mission has evolved to encompass a global view of the entire food production system–the wise management of natural resources in the production, processing, storage, handling, and use of food fiber and other biological products.

History
In 1905 Agricultural Engineering was recognized as a subdivision of the Department of Agronomy, and in 1907 it was recognized as a unique department. It was renamed the Department of Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering in 1990. The department merged with the Department of Industrial Education and Technology in 2004.

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1905–present

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  • Department of Agricultural Engineering (1907–1990)

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Agricultural and Biosystems Engineering
Abstract

High variability of nonpoint source (NPS) pollutant loads caused primarily by uncontrollable precipitation events creates great uncertainty for those charged with NPS management. Stakeholder disagreement on the best way to address the uncertainty issue can lead to inaction. However, understanding different stakeholder perspectives could promote consensus and a unified effort to effectively address this difficult pollution problem. This paper probes methodologies for quantifying the uncertainty of soil erosion and sediment load predictions and evaluates stakeholder perceptions of the issue through a focus group study. Three groups, each consisting of 5 to 8 individuals, convened to answer a set of questions designed to promote discussion of soil erosion and sediment load prediction uncertainty. One group was composed of natural resource professionals and scientists, another of individuals with environmental interests, and the third of producers and producer association representatives. The goal of the study is to gain insight into perceptions of NPS pollution uncertainty, the need for its quantification, and its impact on water quality improvement efforts. The findings of this study have important implications for EPA’s TMDL program and other NPS pollution control initiatives.

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This is an ASABE Meeting Presentation, Paper No 1009177.

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Fri Jan 01 00:00:00 UTC 2010