SESSION 1

TIME: Tuesday, 9 May, 10:30-12:00

ROOM: Elizabethan Room C

TRACK: Watershed/System Assessment

TOPIC: Case Studies in Regional & Collaborative Planning

MODERATOR:

PRESENTATIONS:

Title: Watershed Analysis are the Foundation for Water Resources Project Development

Presenter: Derek J. Chow (POH)

Abstract: Comprehensive watershed analyses are the foundation for proper watershed project planning and implementation. A holistic approach allows for a greater appreciation of the problem dynamics and the formulation of coordinated solutions. These coordinated solutions have a much greater chance of implementation through government programs. The Ala Wai Watershed Analysis was conducted during the problem identification stage of the Ala Wai Canal Project feasibility study. The Corps of Engineers facilitated the multi-agency effort in the development of the Watershed Analysis. The Watershed Analysis is a useful tool not just for the Corps of Engineers, but also for any agency and organization having responsibility for and interest in the watershed. For significant watersheds, there may be 20 or 30 or more public and private entities involved in projects, programs, and actions within that watershed. This presentation will document how a comprehensive watershed analysis in Hawaii has built trust and cooperation amongst all levels of government agencies, organizations, property owners, community groups, elected officials, and academia. We are taking advantage of this dedication to work together to develop lasting solutions to watershed problems.

Title: The Green-Dewamish Ecosystem Restoration Program: Bringing Together the Watershed

Presenter: Michael R. Scuderi (NWS)

Abstract:  The Green-Duwamish watershed, in western Washington, covers a wide variety of habitats, ranging from headwater natural forests to the intensely urbanized and industrial Seattle waterfront. Overlying this habitat mosaic are multiple jurisdictions, Federal reservations, and tribal usual and accustomed (U&A) hunting and fishing areas. The watershed contains several federally listed endangered species, Puget Sound Chinook salmon, bull trout, and bald eagle. Formulating a cost effective ecosystem restoration program that addresses the interests of a wide variety of stakeholders, and meets the varied planning and restoration objectives, presents a formidable challenge.

The resultant Green-Duwamish Ecosystem Restoration Program (ERP) was developed with the cooperation of 17 municipalities within King County, Washington, working together with the overarching goal of restoring the inherent functions and values of the Green-Duwamish ecosystem, and in particular to assist the recovery of Puget Sound Chinook salmon. Based on this successful collaboration, Congress authorized $113 million to construct 45 restoration projects over a ten year period. The first project, the Meridian Valley Creek relocation, was completed in 2005. This presentation will describe the mechanics of setting up the ERP, and then focus on how this robust collaboration was carried forward during development of the first ERP project.

Title: Collaborative Implementation Framework for Illinois River Basin Restoration

Presenter: Brad Thompson (MVR)

Abstract: The Corps of Engineers and Illinois Department of Natural Resources (sponsor) working in coordination with numerous state and Federal agencies developed a comprehensive plan for the restoration of the Illinois River Basin as authorized in Section 519 of the Water Resources Development Act (WRDA) of 2000.  The watershed based restoration study developed the goals, objectives, and recommended plan to restore the ecological integrity of the 30,000 square mile basin.  The plan recommends a tiered approach with initial implementation of a $127 million adaptive restoration program and a $24 million technologies and innovative approaches component that includes monitoring and special studies. The study addressed all restoration needs regardless of implementation agency and developed a multi-agency implementation approach. This presentation will highlight the efforts to estimate the amount and type of future work by agency and to develop an organizational structure providing a forum for collaboration.  Specific legislative recommendations to facilitate more efficient collaboration with other Federal, state, local, and non-governmental organizations will be presented.  The scale of collaboration for this study will be compared with other large-scale restorations in terms of the level of National attention, involvement of other agencies, and commitment of the financial resources of other agencies.

Title: Using System-wide Water Engines and Ecological Models for Habitat Suitability Prediction

Presenters: Elly Best (ERDC), Ronnie Landwehr (MVR)

In the Corps Planning Process to be followed for ecosystem restoration studies, six steps can be distinguished, i.e., (1) Specify problems and opportunities, (2) Inventory and forecast conditions, (3) Formulate alternative plans, (4) Evaluate effects of alternative plan, (5) Compare alternative plans, and (6) Select recommended plan. Among these six steps, the development of scenario’s and scenario-based alternative plans play important roles. The ecological functions of many shallow water bodies are impaired due to the loss of submersed aquatic vegetation and its’ function of stabilizing sediments, enhancing water transparency, and providing suitable habitat for epifauna, fish, and waterfowl. Various system-wide restoration projects are underway, in which part of the project is aimed at restoring aquatic vegetation. Recently, a set of CE-models on hydrodynamics, sediment transport, and aquatic plant viability, has been explored for the restoration/enhancement of aquatic vegetation in pools of the Upper Mississippi River System. A prototype study was conducted on Peoria Lake, IL, where submersed vegetation disappeared in the 1950’s. The CE-models were used to explore the historical environmental conditions under which the plants thrived and subsequently disappeared, and to compare historical with current environmental conditions to evaluate the key conditions in aquatic ecosystem functioning. Output of the various models was used to map current and potential, future, habitat suitability for submersed vegetation under various, planned, model scenario’s. The results of these model explorations can be used as inputs for decision support systems utilized for ecosystem restoration systems.

SESSSION III

TIME: Tuesday 9 May, 3:30-5:00

ROOM: Elizabethan Room C

TRACK: Watershed/System Assessment

TOPIC: Innovative Analytical Procedures and Tools

MODERATOR:

PRESENTATIONS:

Title: Shared Vision Planning for Mississippi Headwaters ROPE Study

Presenters: Steve Clark (MVP), Cardwell (IWR), Lorie (IWR)

The St Paul District has been leading a Shared Vision Planning effort for the Reservoir Operating Plan Evaluation (ROPE) for the Upper Mississippi River system. This study involves multiple stakeholder groups and agencies working together to evaluate the impact of reservoir operations on flooding risk, recreational opportunities, environmental quality and other purposes. This talk will give an overview of the ROPE study and how Shared Vision Planning is promoting collaborative planning and stakeholder and public outreach. Lessons learned and future plans for the remainder of the study will also be discussed.

Title: Reservoir Optimization in the Mississippi Headwaters ROPE Study

Presenter: Beth Faber (HEC), Harou (IWR-HEC), O’Connell (IWR-HEC)

Abstract: The Hydrologic Engineering Center (HEC) is participating in the St. Paul District’s large-scale study of the Mississippi Headwaters Reservoir System, termed ROPE (Reservoir Operation Plan Evaluation). The study will develop a new operation policy for the reservoir system that considers and attempts to balance the many functions and objectives of the system as a whole. These objectives include tribal resources, flood damage reduction, fish and wildlife habitat considerations, recreation, water quality, water supply, erosion and sedimentation control, and hydropower production.

The Shared Vision effort for the Mississippi Headwaters Reservoir System requires a modeling approach that captures the tradeoffs between the various water system objectives that drive system operation, and is transparent and understandable to the individuals who embody those objectives. An approach that uses both optimization, which makes decisions based on their value to objectives, and simulation, which makes decisions that follow operating instructions or rules, is an effective way to evaluate those tradeoffs. The optimization portion of the study involves developing trade-off curves between pairs of system objectives and asks stakeholders to choose a point in each curve that represents a desired balance between the 2 objectives. After next optimizing the system for all objectives with the chosen balance points, optimal system decisions are studied to infer operating rules that might achieve those decisions in real-time. The inferred rules are simulated in a detailed yet transparent model of the Headwaters System to determine whether the trade-off between benefits has been achieved and allow users to adjust and fine-tune operational changes.

Title: Software Integration for Watershed Studies (HEC-WAT)

Presenters: Chris Dunn (IWR-HEC)

Abstract: The U.S. Army Corps of Engineers conducts watershed and water resources management studies. In many cases, hydrologic, hydraulic, economic, environmental, and social impact analyses are performed independently and the reporting and visualization of modeling results is not coordinated. For a project study, model coordination, data and file sharing, reporting of modeling results, and status reporting are often a problem for the modeling and project management teams.

To address this issue, the Hydrologic Engineering Center (HEC) is developing the Watershed Analysis Tool (HEC-WAT). The WAT is an interface designed to streamline and integrate the planning process using software commonly applied by multi-disciplinary teams. HEC-WAT will help perform comprehensive watershed scale studies by creating procedures and capabilities that allow integrated modeling using risk analysis. The tool would improve coordination and communication across Project Delivery Teams (PDT) thus encouraging a team approach. Management would benefit by being able to track project status through each modeling component and being able to display results during public and project status meetings. HEC-WAT will streamline the analytical process, while producing more consistent results, and shared displays.

Title: The Application of a Multi-State Tool for the Assessment of Watershed Integrity (MAW) in the Onondaga Lake Watershed

Presenters: Michael Greer (LRB), Barbara Kleiss/Jeff Lin (ERDC)

Abstract: Increasingly Civil Works water resource projects are developed at the watershed level, thus considering the linkages among landscape components, stream water quality and discharge, and habitat quality. Effective planning and assessment requires tools that address a broad range of issues, integrate a wide variety of spatial data over various scales, provide objective baseline conditions and provide a methodology for predicting the effects of potential restoration projects. An assessment approach that meets these criteria, Multi-scale Assessment of Watershed Integrity (MAWI), has been developed by ERDC and applied in watersheds in California and most recently in central New York. The procedure involves four steps: 1) the delineation of homogenous assessment units and their local drainage areas; 2) the assessment of reach baseline and local drainage conditions using indicators of hydrologic, water quality, and habitat integrity across multiple spatial scales; 3) the assignment of integrity indices based on habitat, hydrology, and water quality models; and 4) the application of baseline assessment results in subsequent alternative analysis. The use of MAWI in feasibility level studies offers considerable advantages over other approaches because existing conditions can be defined in an objective manner and at multiple scales; provides a basis for restoration scenarios and the evaluation of alternative plans; and may be more cost effective than other methods.

SESSION V

TIME: Wednesday 10 May, 3:30-5:00

ROOM: Elizabethan Room C

TRACK: Watershed/System Assessment

TOPIC: Case Studies in Regional & Collaborative Planning

MODERATOR:

PRESENTATIONS:

Title: Improving Collaboration, Coordination and Communications on a Regional Level: The North Georgia Water Resources Agencies (NWGRA)

Presenter: Dean Trawick (SAM)

Abstract: Over the years, many county, state, and federal agencies (including the Corps), developed a reputation for planning water resource projects without soliciting input from “other interested resource agencies”. The Mobile – Savannah Planning Center recognized the need to improve the collaboration, coordination, and communication for the Metropolitan North Georgia region and formed a central interdisciplinary team, the North Georgia Watershed Team (NGWT). The immediate challenge facing this team was to identify and include all stakeholders in the process of formulating acceptable solutions for the many General Investigation Studies and Continuing Authority Projects in this large urbanized region of Georgia. The NGWT organized an interagency collaborative working group, the North Georgia Water Resource Agencies (NGWRA). This group has been very successful in working to develop a regional ecosystem response model and is beginning to look at project alternative development. The NGWRA consists of approximately 30 members from six different state and federal agencies and two counties (non-Federal sponsors). The attendance of project sponsors is critical as they bring special focus to local considerations before the entire working group. Workshops are held quarterly to assure timely information exchange and the formulation of truly acceptable and executable watershed level solutions.

Title: International Joint Commission (US-Canada) Lake Ontario-St. Lawrence River (LOSUR) Study: Applying Corps Principles for Collaborative Integrated Planning

Presenter: Engine Z. Stakhiv (IWR)

Abstract: There are numerous permutations of watershed/river basin management approaches, mostly dependent on the institutional setting of the basin. There is significant recent momentum towards grassroots watershed management organizations that, in the absence of a dominant institution, attempt to coordinate the programs, relying on bottom-up public participation and NGO involvement, of the various fragmented water management institutions in a given basin (regulatory agencies, planning commissions, development agencies, municipalities, counties, etc.). Each has its merits and transferable lessons that could be added to the “toolkit” of future approaches to integrated water resources management and sustainable development.

The recently completed LOSLR study represents a more traditional approach, relying on a long functioning institution, the International Joint Commission (IJC), to develop a binding solution to an important subset of continuously evolving or emergent problems of the basin. The IJC deals with many different problems of the Great Lakes (water diversions and export, system operations, navigation improvements, water quality, invasive species, etc.) through a focused and partitioned approach. However, the fact that the IJC is coordinating all these separable actions and study boards, both within its multidimensional jurisdiction, as well as with all the federal, state, provincial and local entities, ensures a fair amount of cohesiveness and integration of the respective implementation actions. Much of the progress and advances in water management occurs when existing institutions with implementation authority undertake water management initiatives.

One of the unique aspects of the study is that the Study Board of 14 members (equally representation of US and Canada, including Native Americans and Aboriginals) is an independent body that provides its recommendations to the IJC. The IJC also has engaged a 24-member, independent Public Interest Advisory Group (PIAG), which assists the Board with public outreach, involvement and advice (over 250 meetings throughout the basin). The Study Board organized 10 Technical Working Groups, which engages over 150 scientists, engineers, ecologists and economists from academia and federal, state and local agencies to undertake the scores of studies, extensive primary data collection, and development of state-of-the art models for evaluation and decision-making that are required to provides answers to the basic issues.

Title: Collaboration for Integrated Management of the Upper Mississippi River System

Presenters: Charles Spitzack (MVR), Ken Barr (MVR)

Abstract: The Upper Mississippi River System (UMRS) encompasses the channel and floodplain areas and all the associated physical, chemical, and biological components. It includes 854 miles of the Mississippi River from Minneapolis, MN to Cairo, IL; 327 miles of the Illinois Waterway from Chicago to the Mississippi River at Grafton, IL; and the navigable portions of the Minnesota, St. Croix, and Kaskaskia Rivers. Five States see the UMRS as vital to their economy and quality of life of their people. Congress in the 1986 WRDA referred to the UMRS as a national ecological treasure as well as an efficient transportation system. Federal presence in the UMRS, especially through the Corps and Fish & Wildlife Service, is significant.

This presentation will be in three parts. The first is a quick overview of the UMRS in ecological, social, and economic terms. The second provides a historical perspective, dating back to the 1970’s, on the evolution of the collaborative environment in the UMRS and the emergence of a shared vision. The third is on current efforts to advance the state of collaboration for the UMRS as a key component of integrated, adaptive management. This will touch on the process for change, the nature of the emerging institutions for collaboration, and the role of the Corps of Engineers.

Title: Implementing Partnering to Frame Regional Coastal Strategies

Presenters: Roselle Henn (NAN), Lisa Morales, HQ

Abstract: The Corps of Engineers strategic partnership with The Nature Conservancy (TNC) has led to many opportunities for collaboration on many levels across both organizations. In parallel with Headquarters’ execution of the National Memorandum of Understanding (MOU), Districts within North Atlantic Division (NAD) have worked with local TNC Chapters to establish project specific agreements and local MOUs. A Regional MOU between NAD and TNC’s Northeast Region (Maine to Virginia) was executed this fall to facilitate partnering on the regional and watershed scale. The first implementation of the Regional MOU will be the development of strategies to integrate TNC’s Marine Assessment of the northeast coast with Corps storm damage reduction and estuary ecosystem restoration projects. Watershed planning and regional sediment management techniques provide the tools for this collaboration, however, policy issues relating to partnering with TNC and other Non-Governmental Organizations on large scale efforts continue to present challenges. Opportunities for advancing solutions to regional water resource management concerns in the northeast will be presented.

SESSION VI

TIME: Thursday 11 May, 10:30-12:00

ROOM: Elizabethan Room C

TRACK: Watershed/System Assessment

TOPIC: Case Studies in Regional & Collaborative Planning

MODERATOR:

PRESENTATIONS:

Title: Applying the Principles of the Strategic Plan (Goal #1) to the Sacramento and San Joaquin River Basins Comprehensive Study

Presenters: Alicia Kirchner (SPK), Donna Ayres (IWR)

Abstract: The Sacramento and San Joaquin River Basins Comprehensive Study

(1998-2003) reflects a set of guiding principles that promote a systems approach to integrated floodplain management and ecosystem management in the Central Valley of California involving a watershed comprising 43,000 miles. The Comprehensive Study also required a concerted collaborative approach because of the scale involved and the history and diversity of the region. Although developed independently of the Civil Works Strategic Plan released in March 2004, the Comprehensive Study represents an attempt to apply watershed principles espoused in the Strategic Plan and the Corps’ Environmental Operating Principles. The Comp Study provides a case study in lessons learned about both applying and not these principles. This session will pass along to planners engaged in watershed-scale studies lessons about the importance of a systems approach and tools, the need for a shared vision and guiding principles among key stakeholders, attention to both technical and human dimensions of watershed work, the role of the Corps as a neutral facilitator, and the need to manage expectations.

Title: Challenges and Collaboration in the Watershed Planning: Fountain Creek Watershed Study, Colorado

Presenter: Charles Wilson (SPA)

Abstract: The Fountain Creek watershed encompasses approximately 930 sq miles in south-central Colorado along the front range of the Rocky Mountains, extending from Palmer Lake in the north to Colorado Springs and eventually south to Pueblo. The Fountain Creek Watershed Study was the first watershed study undertaken by the Albuquerque District. This ongoing study is evaluating hydrologic, hydraulic, and environmental characteristics of over 150 lineal stream miles, through areas ranging from highly urbanized to rural/agricultural. A broad spectrum of interests, represented by 9 communities, 2 counties, and 2 state agencies has collaboratively participated in the advancement of the study as cost-sharing sponsors. Defining the study scope and level of detail to the satisfaction of the many stakeholders was one of many challenges faced by the study team. The communication and coordination necessary to bring these interests together to sign a FCSA and conduct the study presented a number of challenges that were addressed primarily through the formation of a technical advisory team, and an executive body made of elected officials. Education of the PDT and sponsors on the watershed study concept and its products is an ongoing challenge that will continue through the completion of the final report.

Title: Collaborative Activities and Relationships in the Willamette Watershed

Presenters: Martin Hudson (NWP), Matt Rea (NWP)

This presentation will present an overview of the many collaborative planning processes being undertaken in the Willamette River Basin.  These activities cut across organizational boundaries within the Corps, and among a vast array of stakeholders and collaborative partners.  Topics will include:

- Overview of the Willamette River Basin and collaborative planning issues and opportunities

- Planning’s role in basin management, outreach and coordination

- Development of Collaborative Planning Models; Willamette Basin Case Study

- Planning’s Role in the Willamette Interagency Flow Management Coordination Team

- Willamette River Basin Sustainable Rivers Project (with The Nature Conservancy)

- Collaboration in the Eugene/Springfield Metropolitan Waterways Metro Area GI Feasibility Study

- Perspectives of local sponsors on collaborating with the Corps of Engineers

- Operations Division role as “Planner Forward” in the Willamette River Basin

- Governor’s Willamette River Legacy Program; MOU between the State of Oregon and Portland District

- The “Basin Coordinator” Concept

- “Planner Forward” in the Willamette River Basin

- Development of the “Corps Statesperson”

Title: Computer Aided Collaborative Planning (CACP) for Water Quality Planning in the Willamette River BAsin

Presenters: Matt Rea (NWP), Hal Cardwell (IWR)

IWR, the Portland District, and other partners will be working together over the next couple years on a CACP effort for water resources planning within the Willamette River Basin.  Working in close cooperation with a local watershed group using EPA funds to set up an Ecosystem Marketplace, the CACP effort will involve the collaborative development of computer models that will help the Corps and partners evaluate the impact of Corps reservoir operations on water quality, and other parameters.  Part of this effort will link commonly used reservoir operation (HEC-ResSIM) and water quality models (CE-QUAL2E) to environmental and economic parameters using a transparent stakeholder-friendly modeling environment.  This talk will summarize the plans for this CACP effort and the challenges that this case will present.