US EPA releases water quality models to partnering agencies

The US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has released the Illinois River Watershed Basin and Lake Tenkiller science-based water quality models to the partnering agencies for use.

The models, which were developed by the agency in partnership with Arkansas, Oklahoma and the Cherokee Nation, can now be used by the agencies to evaluate options as they continue to reduce phosphorus loadings from sources in northeast Oklahoma and northwest Arkansas.

EPA regional administrator Anne Idsal said: “These tools are great examples of how cooperative federalism works by helping partnering agencies achieve their long-term goals.

“Over the years we have made great progress by working with states, tribes and local agencies in improving conditions throughout the watershed and we look forward to continuing this effort.”

The new models simulate conditions within the Illinois River Watershed and in Lake Tenkiller and can be used to assess options and their ability to improve water quality.

Calibration and a sensitivity and uncertainty evaluation has been completed for both the models.

Within a few weeks, the EPA plans to convene the partnering agencies to share information about the models and discuss further steps.

Arkansas and Oklahoma propose to share the models and information with stakeholders within the impacted areas and will encourage feedback and involvement within their jurisdictions.

Since 2003, the two states have been working to protect and improve water quality in the designated scenic rivers.