General framework for a water quality knowledge and information network
Date
2010
Authors
Dalcanale, Fernanda, author
Fontane, Darrell G., advisor
Grigg, Neil S., committee member
Vlachos, Evan, committee member
Ferreira do Amaral Porto, Monica, committee member
Journal Title
Journal ISSN
Volume Title
Abstract
The increasing pressure on water resources worldwide, due to growing demand, scarcity, and pollution, are leading to a shift from top-down models of management to interdisciplinary approaches and participatory processes, highlighting the need for collaborative work. As a result, the evolution in regulations and management practices and the forging of new partnerships are creating the need for unprecedented amounts of data and knowledge exchange, adding to the complexity of managing information on water resources. Regarding water quality management in particular, the interdependency with the land and the environment and the uncertainty around sources of contamination and chemical interactions can add to the problem. Furthermore, information and knowledge are produced by many different water quality management entities, and efficient means to communicate them are an important part of the process. Technology has provided some excellent tools for sharing information in all branches of science, including water resources. The latest developments go beyond static formats, allowing for the creation of online communities that can provide the necessary tools for information and knowledge exchange. In this project, a search for the available technology for collaboration, methods of community filtering, and community-based review was performed and the possible implementation of these tools to create a general framework for a collaborative “Water Quality Knowledge and Information Network” was evaluated. The main goals of the network are to advance water quality education and knowledge; encourage distribution and access to data; provide networking opportunities; allow public perceptions and concerns to be collected; promote exchange of ideas; and, give general, open, and free access to information. A reference implementation was made available online and received positive feedback from the community, which also suggested some possible improvements.
Description
Covers not scanned.
Print version deaccessioned 2022.
Print version deaccessioned 2022.
Rights Access
Subject
Water quality management