Dr. Puneet Srivastava
Assistant Professor

(1) Develop Better Understanding of Hydrologic Processes in the Sand Mountain Region of Alabama
Since hydrologic processes (both surface and groundwater) determine the transport and fate of chemicals and biological materials, a thorough understanding of hydrology is a must for addressing nonpoint source pollution. A complex set of processes affect hydrology and their relative importance can be quite different from one physiographic province to another. For example, currently much debate exists concerning the mechanism of surface runoff generation and spatial dynamics of runoff-contributing areas. A better understanding of surface runoff generation and spatial dynamics of runoff-contributing areas has huge implications for the management of nonpoint source pollutants (including phosphorus) in animal wastes. This kind of research is especially important for Alabama because animal agriculture is a significant part of Alabama’s economy. I am interested in conducting field experiments to better understand runoff generation mechanism and delineate runoff-contributing areas in the Sand Mountain region of Alabama where most of the poultry production is located.

(2) Anthropogenic Chemicals in the Environment
Humans are responsible for discharging a number of chemicals to our stream systems. The environmental impact of chemical pollution is currently focused on nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorus), sediment, and conventional “priority” pollutants that are acutely toxic/carcinogenic and are persistent in the environment. In addition, there are a number of other pollutants that are continuously being discharged to our stream systems. These chemicals include antimicrobials and endocrine-disrupting compounds. I am interested in collaborative studies to quantify fate and transport of antimicrobials and endocrine-disrupting compounds in the environment, and their effect on aquatic ecosystems.

(3) Watershed-Scale Modeling to Address Nonpoint Source Pollution
Watershed-scale modeling of nonpoint source pollutants is often a must to identify sources and causes of stream impairment and to devise management strategies to control nonpoint source pollution. Currently, with funding from USEPA, we are developing a BMP database for all the BMPs used in various kinds of agricultural and forestry operations in Alabama. Once developed, this BMP database will be implemented in the watershed-scale, continuous simulation model SWAT. The SWAT model in currently the most widely used USEPA-supported model for addressing nonpoint source pollution. This model is also extensively used by state and federal agencies for developing and implementing Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs) mandated by the Clean Water Act. In addition to the SWAT model, we also conduct watershed-scale modeling studies using a number of other models including AnnAGNPS, WEPP, and USEPA BASINS modeling system.

(4) Water Quality Impact of Off-Road Vehicle (ORV) Trails
Sediment pollution created by ORV trails is a growing concern for many recreational areas including our National Forests. The trail systems set up for ORVs contain steep climbs, banked turns, and ruts or crevices that sustain high volumes of riders. The nature of ORV use for recreation includes quick stops, fast accelerations, and high speed turns. This type of activity leads to miles of exposed soil surfaces. During storm events, these trail systems become the primary contributor of sediment into the nearby streams. Sediment from ORV trails can be a significant diffuse source of pollution reaching the surrounding waterways, but little research has been done to quantify the impact of ORV trails on the surrounding environment.

(5) GIS-Based Poultry Litter Transportation Analysis System
Poultry production is vital to the economy of Alabama, supporting more than 78,000 jobs and accounting for 43% of state’s farm and forestry cash receipts. Confined poultry production, however, results in 1.7 million tons of litter each year, containing high levels of phosphorus (P), pathogens, and other potential contaminants. Over the years, excessive land application of poultry litter to perennial forage crops (e.g., fescue and bermuda grass), used for hay production and beef cattle grazing, in the Appalachian Plateau region of North Alabama has resulted in P build-up in soils. Even though P is an essential nutrient for plant growth, runoff of P can accelerate eutrophication resulting in severe impairment of waterbodies that support aquatic, recreational and drinking water uses. Because of the water quality issues associated with massive amount of litter produced each year, the sustainability of the poultry industry (and hence the poultry industry jobs) in the Appalachian Plateau region is threatened.

As part of larger team, we are developing a Poultry Litter Transportation Analysis System to stimulate the agricultural economies of Black Belt, Sand Mountain, and Tennessee Valley regions and sustain the poultry industry (by alleviating water quality threats) in the Appalachian Plateau region of Alabama. The transportation analysis system (transportation for on- and off-farm usage and value-added products) will provide optimal (in the most economical, efficient, and environmentally-friendly manner possible), state-wide management of poultry litter, which is crucial for sustaining the poultry industry in Alabama.