The solution approach begins with identifying the region's main rivers and understanding their hydrology using mapping and geoprocessing tools. After understanding the hydrograph of the area, high-resolution satellite images are utilized to identify upstream potential pollution sources.
Software Requirements:
- QGIS
- Google Earth
Outline steps to get to a solution
1. Follow step 1-4 of the solution Surface water extent / river course to develop the hydrograph
- Plot the Region of Interest (completed)
- Identify the region's main rivers and understand their hydrology (completed);
- Identify the region's potential flood areas using H.A.N.D.;
- Build a hydrography dataset (completed);
2. Locate potential contamination sources
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Use QGIS and Google Earth high-resolution satellite images to locate potential contamination sources
Figure 1: Identifcation of potential sources of pollution upstream the communities land. -
Take a field trip to confirm the potential sources of contamination (in progress)
Figure 2: Map showing the potential source of contamination near the river.
3. Select the appropriate monitoring method (in progress)
- Media for monitoring (water, sediment, suspended particles)
- Sampling locations, sampling frequency
- Physical, chemical and biological parameters for measurement
- Weather
To ensure the safety and quality of drinking water, Drinking Water Standards (Standards) define Maximum Acceptable Values (MAVs) for a variety of contaminants that pose a threat to its quality and safety. These values are based on the World Health Organization's guidelines.
The Drinking-water Standards for New Zealand are listed here.
