Fillable Printable Example Research Proposal

Example Research Proposal

Problem Title. Can the aquatic toxicity or ecologic im pacts of untreated highway runoff (“hot

spots”) be identified through rapid assessment methods using highway/receiving water/land use

characteristics rather than through direct testing?

Problem Statement. Regulators in Washington State generally assume that all highway runoff

is toxic, although historic research has shown that, in general, highway runoff does not present

direct acute toxicity, as determined from field-based bioassays or bioassessments (FHWA open

file report 98-630, An Overview of Factors Involved in Evaluating the Geochemical Effects of

Highway Runoff on the Environment). Since stormwater flow events are intermittent, chronic

effects are not particularly relevant since chronic levels of exposure do not exist. On the federal

level, NCHRP project 25-20(01) “Evaluation of Best Management Practices for Highway Runoff

Control”, funded for fiscal year 2003 by AASHTO, included this element as part of their scope

of work.

It would be useful to be able to delineate which stormwater outfalls would be the most

appropriate candidates for “enhanced” treatment for dissolved metals or retrofits to maintain

aquatic health without having to conduct extensive field testing and/or elaborate modeling.

Literature Search. Two relevant studies are listed above. Additionally, the Transportation

Research Board has identified the topic of highway runoff toxicity, its bioavailability, and

suitable rapid assessment methods as a priority for funding for ’02-’07 planning period.

Research Methods. Continue searches of published and “gray” literature for related studies. It

may be an appropriate topic for development of a “white paper” that summarizes the current

state of research.

Partnering Opportunities. Many DOTs, particularly those in states with rigorous NPDES

requirements, would be interested in rapid assessment procedures so that they can justify

stormwater management decisions.

Estimate of Costs and Research Duration. Estimated costs not developed, but expected to be

greater than $50,000.

Urgency, Payoff Potential, and Implementation. Payoff potential is substantial, as research

results could lead to a rapid assessment method that could reduce monitoring costs.

Research Proposer.

 Name

 Office

 Phone Number

 Email Address

Research Monitor. (to be assigned, as needed, by the research program administrator)