Knowledge Area: Use Attainability Analysis

Our Objective

WERF will continue to develop technical and policy tools to make the Use Attainability Analysis (UAA) process more effective and broadly acceptable.

Latest News

Tools and Guidance for Creating Site-Specific Numeric Water Quality Criteria for Nutrients Available
As numeric nutrient criteria are developed by various states, the US EPA has defined three categories of approaches. One of WERF’s current research efforts is focused on the third “modeling” approach. The project team is developing case studies, decision support tools, and a Nutrient Modeling Toolbox for deriving site-specific water quality criteria for nutrients (LINK1T11).
Update on Modeling Approaches to Developing Site-Specific Nutrient Goals, Criteria and Management
In 2012, WERF fast-tracked a research project to provide guidance for a Nutrient Modeling Toolbox that regulatory agencies, National Pollutant Discharge Elimination System (NPDES) permit holders, and other stakeholder can use to quantitatively relate nutrient management strategies to response indicators for aquatic systems on a waterbody-specific basis.
EPA Requests Proposals for up to $3.8 million in Funding for Projects to Restore Urban Waterways
EPA plans to award between $1.8 and $3.8 million in grants (ranging from $40,000 to $60,000 each) for projects to help restore urban waters. Projects should focus on local water quality issues, advancing the restoration of urban waters, and supporting community revitalization and other local priorities.
Factors for Success in Developing UAAs
Two WERF studies provide guidance on determining if a Use Attainability Analysis is your best option. And if so, the steps to take to help ensure success.

Products & Tools

Modeling Guidance for Developing Site-Specific Nutrient Goals (LINK1T11)
This research report presents guidance and tools for the use of models to set waterbody-specific nutrient goals, including Numeric Nutrient Criteria NNC and allowable nutrient loadings. The developed Nutrient Modeling Toolbox contains 30 models capable of quantifying the relationship between nutrient loads and their impacts in terms of water quality or ecological response indicators.
WERF/NACWA Use Attainability Analysis Handbook
This handbook is a collaborative effort between WERF and the National Association of Clean Water Agencies (NACWA). It provides insights into the UAA process, into the restoration potential (if applicable), and into natural and human factors. Order the handbook, or download an executive summary.
Study on Factors for Success in Developing Use Attainability Analyses
WERF’s study identifies success factors in the UAA process and develops guidance for applying these factors. It evaluates numerous UAAs, discussing key challenges and ways to address those challenges. The report includes case studies of three common UAA considerations: wet-weather impacts; urban settings; and effluent-dependent or -dominated streams.
WERF's Peer Review of the City of Lincoln, NE
Order WERF's Peer Review of the City of Lincoln, NE: Salt Creek Site-Specific Ammonia Water Quality Criteria.
U.S. EPA Information on UAAs
EPA provides an overview of the use, development, and implementation of UAAs, with links to case studies.