Services > Environmental Modeling > Site Specific Modeling

Site Specific Modeling

Site specific modeling is typically associated with Tier 3 or Tier 4 modeling which is part of the USEPA registration process. It includes not only the use of site specific data but encompasses site selection, buffer strip and vegetative strip modeling, and national assessments to determine vulnerable areas.

Registration studies often require the study site to be located in an area typical of the product use as well as a worst-case area in terms of environmental impact on either groundwater or surface water. Waterborne has performed site selection for many field studies, using a geographic information system (GIS) and modeling to identify appropriate candidate areas for risk assessment of agrochemical exposure studies. Using this methodology allows us to narrow the search areas and significantly reduces the amount of time spent in the field searching for the ideal site.

Waterborne is experienced in developing models to simulate specific site conditions. The level of sophistication and detail in model setup varies depending on the purpose of the study, the complexity of the site, and the availability of data. As part of the modeling process we have:

• calibrated model input parameters
• conducted model sensitivity analysis
• developed automated processes to translate spatial data into model input
• used relationships in geomorphology to estimate parameters that are often unavailable from the prototype system.
• linked models together to represent heterogeneous systems

We have also used site specific modeling to explain hydrologic and chemical behavior in systems that have had insufficient spatial and temporal monitoring, to demonstrate chemical behavior under real-world conditions, and to evaluate alternate mitigation measures prior to their implementation at a location.