Review of Potential Modeling Tools and Approaches to Support the BEACH Program

摘要

The objective of EPA's Beach Environmental Assessment, Closure and Health (BEACH) Program is to significantly reduce the risk of infection to users of the nation's recreational waters. Waterborne pathogens reaching recreational areas can originate from various sources located either within the proximity of the beach or at upstream locations within the drainage area or watershed. These sources can be grouped into three categories: (1) nonpoint source-dominated systems, where pathogen contamination is governed by rainfall events; (2) point source-dominated systems, where pathogen impact is due to either continuous or intermittent discharges; and (3) episodic releases of untreated wastewater due to uncontrolled discharges and accidental spills.