I used GIS (Geographic Information Systems) to map nutrient risk areas in the watershed of Skaneateles Lake, NY. I learned how to use ArcGIS Pro spatial tools to address an environmental problem.
Final Project Outcome
This research poster was presented at SUNY Oneonta’s Student Research and Creative Activity Showcase (SRCA), to spread public awareness of the importance of sustainable land management.
What I did
I created a risk index map using ArcGIS Pro, to identify areas within the Skaneateles Lake watershed that are more likely to contribute to nutrient runoff. Three environmental variables – land use type, slope, and distance to water – were combined and analyzed to create the weighted risk index. I assigned land use the highest weight (50%) due to its dominant control on nutrient levels, slope (25%) due to topography’s influence on runoff, and distance to water (25%) as a measure of connectivity between streams and the lake. Once I completed the final map, I was able to identify high and low risk areas in the watershed.
What I learned
Through this project, I learned how strongly land use impacts water quality. My results show that Skaneateles Lake is highly susceptible to nutrient runoff throughout most of the watershed. The southwest area of the watershed shows lower risks of nutrient runoff (dominated by forests and wetlands). No matter the distance from the lake or streams, urban areas and farmland show higher risks of nutrient runoff. Along this process, I also gained stronger skills in data analysis, watershed systems, land use practices, and environmental applications of GIS.
What’s next for me
Following this project, I am graduating with a Bachelor of Science in Environmental Sustainability and Geography. I plan to continue expanding the GIS skills I developed from my watershed analysis project. I am currently searching and applying for environmental related GIS full-time positions in NYS. I look forward to using my geography knowledge and skillset to help with conservation.
