Selection Of Best Management Practices Research Articles

First Flush Stormwater Runoff in Urban Catchments: A Bibliometric and Comprehensive Review

First flush is a phenomenon in stormwater runoff that has been considered a topic of great interest in the field of nonpoint source pollution. Despite several attempts to define the first flush quantitively, the specified characteristics of the phenomenon vary among sources. To address these uncertainties, a bibliometric and comprehensive review on published articles related to first flush was conducted. A corpus of 403 research articles was obtained from the Scopus database, which was then parsed using the CorText Manager for the bibliometric analysis. The study examined quantitative definitions of first flush from various sources; climate and topographic characteristics of monitoring and experimental sites where the studies on first flush were performed; the sample collection methods applied; the first flush values obtained on the studies and how it influenced the nonpoint source pollution in urban watersheds. A network map, two contingency matrices, and a Sankey diagram were created to visualize the relationship of significant keywords related to first flush, as well as their co-occurrences with journals, countries, and years. It was found that the strength of the first flush effect could vary depending on the geographical location of the site, climatic conditions, and the pollutants being analyzed. Therefore, initial rainfall monitoring, runoff sampling, and water quality testing were seen as critical steps in characterizing the first flush in urban catchments. Furthermore, the characterization of first flush was found to be significant to the selection of best management practices and design of low-impact development (LID) technologies for stormwater runoff management and nonpoint source pollution control.

Evaluation of the Impact of Best Management Practices on Streamflow, Sediment and Nutrient Yield at Field and Watershed Scales

Evaluating Best Management Practices (BMPs) in watersheds using hydrologic and water quality models can help to establish an effective watershed water management. Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) was applied to Big Sunflower River Watershed (BSRW) and the Stovall Sherard Watershed (SSW) to evaluate BMP’s impact at watershed and field scale watersheds respectively. SWAT was calibrated and validated for streamflow, sediment yield, total nitrogen (TN), and total phosphorous (TP) at outlets of three sub-basins of the BSRW, and within the SSW. BMP scenarios of check-dam, tail water pond, vegetative filter strips (VFS), nutrient management, and tillage management were evaluated for their efficacy in reducing streamflow, sediment yield, and nutrient loads at field and watershed scales. The VFS was determined as the most effective BMP in decreasing sediment yield, TN, and TP at both field and watershed scales. At field scale, reduction of sediment yield, TN, and TP by VFS ranged from 8 to 12%, 71% to 98%, and 72% to 99% respectively and at watershed scale, reduction of sediment yield, TN, and TP by VFS ranged from 12 to 38%, 29% to 87%, and 42% to 99% respectively. The application of conservation and zero tillage operation showed reduction in sediment yield by 1% to 2% respectively but increased TN and TP by 2% to 25% at field and watershed scale watersheds. This study will help in managing water at field and watershed scale watersheds regarding BMPs selection and implementation.Graphical

Granulometric distribution of metals in road-deposited sediments by using different sieving methods

Road-deposited sediments (RDS) contain metals that can pollute receiving waters during precipitation events. The concentration of particle-bound metals tends to increase with decreasing particle size. In terms of metal load, the highest loads were often located in the medium range of particle sizes. Many studies have used varying or undocumented sieving techniques without showing the quality of the separation process. This is important as different particle size classes are documented with different pollution contents and loads. This knowledge builds the foundation for the selection of best management practices to improve receiving water quality. Based on the knowledge that the separation of particle sizes by the commonly applied dry sieving can be methodologically biased, this study compares particle size classes obtained by dry and wet sieving methods. The aim of the study was to show the methodological influence of the sieving process on the particle-size distribution (PSD) with focus on the metal distribution within RDS. Therefore, concentrations of Cu, Zn and Pb were determined and loads were calculated per sieve fraction after wet and dry sieving. Wet sieving causes a shift of the PSD to finer particles and both metal concentrations and loads are significantly higher especially in the smallest sieve fractions. Fine, highly polluted particles remained in coarser sieve fractions after dry sieving. This leads to diverging metal contents and especially loads in the fractions > 250 µm and thus lead to varying conclusions from the results. The results of the comparison of sieving methods however confirmed the relevance of the fine particle fractions in terms of best management practices. The fraction < 40 µm showed highest concentration and load in RDS after wet sieving. The results also showed the considerable influence of the sieving method used and the need to document laboratory methods as part of good laboratory practice.

A framework for automated and spatially-distributed modeling with the Agricultural Policy Environmental eXtender (APEX) model

Agricultural Best Management Practices (BMPs) are popular approaches to reduce nonpoint source (NPS) pollutant losses. Hydrologic models that can simulate impacts of BMPs at the field-scale can help guide the selection of BMPs. Furthermore, high-performance computing techniques have significant potential for scaling spatial simulations and reducing model runtimes. In this study, a parallel modeling framework for the Agricultural Policy Environmental eXtender (APEX) model was developed for large-scale, high-resolution, spatially-distributed model simulations. It provides a tool for conducting BMP evaluations at field-scale with a distributed architecture and automatic model setup of APEX. Sample results demonstrated the capability of the framework for distributed and semi-distributed modeling and illustrated the performance of parallelization. This framework can help provide guidance for decision makers on agricultural BMPs with large-scale water quality assessments and NPS nutrient loading reductions.

An exploratory study on the use of different composite magnetic and colour fingerprints in aeolian sediment provenance fingerprinting

There is an urgent need for reliable and cost-effective sediment source tracing techniques for apportioning aeolian sediment (sand dune) sources for guiding the selection of best management practices for wind erosion control. Accordingly, the main aim of this study was to quantify the contributions of aeolian sources to sand dune target sediment samples collected in a case study in central Iran using a source fingerprinting procedure based on low-cost fingerprints comprising colour and magnetic tracers. Colour (RGB), magnetic susceptibility (χlf and χhf) and 13 colour and magnetic indices were measured on 54 aeolian sediment source samples and ten aeolian target sediment samples. Three different composite fingerprints for discriminating and apportioning the aeolian sediment sources were selected based on a combination of statistical tests comprising the Kruskal–Wallis H test (KW-H), discriminant function analysis (DFA), principal component & classification analysis (PCCA), and a general classification & regression tree (GC&RT) model. The Modified MixSIR Bayesian un-mixing model was used to apportion aeolian source contributions using the final composite fingerprints. The composite signatures all suggested that the salt flat plain was the dominant (average 63%, and standard deviation, SD, 5.9%) source of the aeolian target sediment samples, whilst agricultural land was second (average 63%, SD 5.6%,) most important. The root mean square difference between the apportionment results based on the three composite fingerprints ranged from 0.2% to 8.3%. Pairwise comparisons of the posterior distributions for the predicted source proportions generated using the three composite signatures showed that eight of 12 pairwise comparisons were not significantly different. Virtual mixture accuracy tests of the fingerprinting models using the three composite signatures suggested errors ranging between 2.2%−20.6% (with a mean of 9.9%), 1.4%−17.0% (mean value 8.3%), and 0.03%−1.0% (mean value 0.8%). The results support the use of low-cost colour and magnetic tracers by investigations into aeolian sediment provenance.

Identification of critical areas and evaluation of best management practices using SWAT for sustainable watershed management

Identification of critical erosion-prone areas and selection of best management practices (BMPs) for watersheds are necessary to control their degradation by reducing sediment yields. The current research assesses and proposes a combination of potential BMPs for the Baitarani catchment in India using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT). After the successful calibration and validation of the SWAT model developed for this catchment, the model was applied to evaluate the efficacy of eight agricultural and structural management practices and their combinations (three scenarios) for controlling sediment yields at watershed and sub-watershed levels as well as to assess the impacts of combined BMPs on water balance components. A combination of BMPs was found more effective in reducing sediment yields than individual BMPs. Comparative evaluation revealed that structural BMPs (0.66–70%) are better than agricultural BMPs (2–7%) in minimizing sediment yields at watershed level. The costly measures like grade and streambank stabilization structures can reduce the sediment yield up to 70% at the watershed level. The modeling results of the impacts of different combinations of BMPs (three scenarios) indicated that if all the eight BMPs are implemented, the reduction of sediment yields is increased by 76% and 80% at sub-watershed and watershed levels, respectively compared to the Base Scenario. Based on funds availability, a suitable combination of BMPs can be adopted by the concerned decision-makers to effectively reduce sediment yields in the study area. Further, the simulation results of BMPs impacts on water balance components revealed that the annual average surface runoff reduces by 4–14% in the three scenarios, while aquifer recharge (6.8–8.7%), baseflow (8–10.5%), and percolation (1.2–3.9%) increase due to implementation of BMPs. Overall, the findings of this study are very useful for ensuring sustainable management of land and other resources at a catchment scale.

Decision-Support System for LID Footprint Planning and Urban Runoff Mitigation in the Lower Rio Grande Valley of South Texas

To address regional flooding in the United States, federal and state agencies are adopting strict drainage policies in any large-scale commercial development within the watershed boundary. The conventional approach of implementing a wet detention pond (WP) reduces the land cover and causes operation and maintenance challenges eventually. The present study developed a decision-support system (DSS) in the Lower Rio Grande Valley region of South Texas for optimal selection of Best Management Practices (BMPs) by substituting a portion of the WP footprint with three regionally promising low-impact development practices, namely, porous concrete pavement (PCP), bioretention (BR), and bioswale (BS). Source Load Assessment and Management Model for Windows (WinSLAMM) was used as the foundation for the DSS database and algorithm development. This tool suggested that the implementation of bioswale alone can considerably reduce the footprint and construction cost. Less than 0.95 ha of installation of BR and BS can mitigate 79–91% of runoff from a maximum of 5 ha of commercial development. A combination of BR, BS, and WP was found to reduce runoff significantly (~100%), which suggests that the successful adoption of DSS might support better planning of the urban stormwater management in the Lower Rio Grande Valley (LRGV).

A dual isotopic framework for identifying nitrate sources in surface runoff in a small agricultural watershed, northeast China

The northeast black soil region of China, an important area of grain production, currently faces serious diffuse pollution issues. In this study, a dual isotopic (δ 15 N and δ 18 O) framework was used to determine nitrate sources in runoff of a small agricultural watershed of this region. The results indicated that the ranges of δ 15 N and δ 18 O values of NO 3 -sources were significantly affected by natural geographic features and human activities. Nitrate in cropland runoff was mainly derived from soil, fertilizer and precipitation. Meanwhile, natural inputs, including those of soil and precipitation, represented the main nitrate sources in forest runoff. Domestic sewage, manure and precipitation contributed to most of the nitrate in runoff from villages. In addition, based on runoff export from different land uses and results from a stable isotope mixing model, soil and chemical fertilizer were identified as the main NO 3 -source in the whole watershed; suggesting that soil erosion could lead to serious diffuse pollution in the study area. Over all, this study not only provided suggestions to the optimal selection of Best Management Practices (BMPs) in Northeast China, but also could contribute to the identification and quantification of NO 3 -sources in agricultural watersheds of the black soil regions worldwide. • Five nitrate sources were identified in surface runoff using a dual isotopic framework. • Nitrate isotopic signatures of surface runoff were significantly different among three land use. • Both natural and anthropogenic sources contributed to nitrate pollution. • Soil and fertilizer were identified as the main nitrate source in the whole watershed.

Site-Scale Integrated Decision Support Tool (i-DSTss) for Stormwater Management

A site-scale integrated decision support tool (i-DSTss) is developed for selection and sizing of stormwater Best Management Practices (BMPs). The tool has several component modules—hydrology, BMP selection, BMP sizing, and life-cycle cost analysis (LCCA)—integrated into a single platform. The hydrology module predicts runoff from small catchment on event and continuous basis using the Green-Ampt and Curve Number methods. The module predicted runoff from a small residential area and a parking lot with R2 value of 0.77 and 0.74, respectively. The BMP selection module recommends a BMP type appropriate for a site based on economic, technical, social and environmental criteria using a multi-criteria optimization approach. The BMP sizing module includes sizing options for green roofs, infiltration-based BMPs, and storage-based BMPs. A mass balance approach is implemented for all types of BMPs. The tool predicted outflow rates from a permeable pavement with R2 value of 0.89. A cost module is included where capital, operation and maintenance, and rehabilitation costs are estimated based on BMP size obtained from the sizing module. The i-DSTss is built on an accessible platform (Microsoft Excel VBA) and can be operated with a basic skillset. The i-DSTss is intended for designers, regulators, and municipalities for quick analysis of scenarios involving interaction among several factors.

A Multicriteria Index System for the Selection of Best Management Practices at the Watershed Scale

The selection of Best Management Practices (BMPs) is the key of nonpoint source pollution control at a watershed scale. To date, there are no comprehensive methods or corresponding tools for the selection of BMPs by considering the operation constraints on local spatial conditions, especially for those large-scale watersheds. In this study, a new method was developed to provide economically, ecologically and operationally effective solutions, which integrates the Geographic Information System-based multicriteria index analysis with a watershed model. Land use, area, soil type and slope were used as potential constraints for selection system. This method helps identify the potential placements for BMPs at the watershed scale and reduce the work of an accurate algorithm-based optimization of BMPs placement in watershed. The system was validated with Soil and Water Assessment Tool in Daning River watershed, the Three Gorges Reservoir Region, China. Based on the results, the new approach provides more specific potential sites for BMPs than traditional methods at a watershed scale. Within the new framework, the vegetative filter strip was suggested as the most widespread practice, while the constructed wetland is the least effective option. The area with relatively flat agricultural plains was suitable for most practices, suggesting a more operationally effective scheme if the new method was used. The system developed in this study could easily extend to other watersheds to provide an objective selection method and the potentialsite of BMPs.

Modeling Watershed‐Scale Impacts of Stormwater Management with Traditional versus Low Impact Development Design

AbstractStormwater runoff and associated pollutants from urban areas in the greater Chesapeake Bay Watershed (CBW) impair local streams and downstream ecosystems, despite urbanized land comprising only 7% of the CBW area. More recently, stormwater best management practices (BMPs) have been implemented in a low impact development (LID) manner to treat stormwater runoff closer to its source. This approach included the development of a novel BMP model to compare traditional and LID design, pioneering the use of comprehensively digitized storm sewer infrastructure and BMP design connectivity with spatial patterns in a geographic information system at the watershed scale. The goal was to compare total watershed pollutant removal efficiency in two study watersheds with differing spatial patterns of BMP design (traditional and LID), by quantifying the improved water quality benefit of LID BMP design. An estimate of uncertainty was included in the modeling framework by using ranges for BMP pollutant removal efficiencies that were based on the literature. Our model, using Monte Carlo analysis, predicted that the LID watershed removed approximately 78 kg more nitrogen, 3 kg more phosphorus, and 1,592 kg more sediment per square kilometer as compared with the traditional watershed on an annual basis. Our research provides planners a valuable model to prioritize watersheds for BMP design based on model results or in optimizing BMP selection.

Modified control strategies for critical source area of nitrogen (CSAN) in a typical freeze-thaw watershed

The management of critical source areas of diffuse nitrogen (CSANs) remains challenging in freeze-thaw areas due to the different N loss characteristics in different hydrological conditions and seasons. To address these challenges, a modified strategy was proposed in this study using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) to simulate diffuse N loads in the study catchments. Specifically, the spatial and temporal variations of CSANs caused by differences in precipitation and seasons were considered. In addition, the selection of best management practices (BMPs) was selected according to BMP performance and their seasonal characteristics in diffuse N control. The diffuse N load formed during freeze-thaw seasons accounts for approximately 50% of the annual diffuse N load. The diffuse N load discharged to rivers was higher in wet conditions than dry conditions by 127.4% and 181.5% during freeze-thaw seasons and growing seasons, respectively. The spatial distribution of CSANs was more sensitive to differences between freeze-thaw and growing seasons. Among BMPs, buffer strips (BS), no tillage (NT) and reducing N fertilizer applications (RNFA) all showed differences in their diffuse N removal efficiency under different hydrological conditions and seasons, while reforestation operations were not affected by these factors. The benefit of reforestation operations was lower in flatter areas. When areas with slopes greater than 2 degrees were reforested, the average N removal efficiency of the 1st CSAN could be as high as 82.4%. In the 2nd CSAN, the average N removal efficiency of BS was relatively constant across freeze-thaw seasons. Across growing seasons, the N removal efficiency of BS in wet years was 8%-10% higher than in dry conditions due to the lower percentage of lateral flow. The average N removal efficiency of NT was higher during freeze-thaw seasons and lower during growing seasons with average values of 9.3% and 6.1%, respectively. The N control efficiency of RNFA 10% and RNFA 20% (a 10% or 20% reduction in fertilizer application, respectively) was highest during dry growing seasons with average N control efficiencies of 9.6% and 17.8%, respectively. This study is expected to improve diffuse pollution control in cold areas and to improve the understanding of how N removal efficiency of BMPs responds to variations in hydrological conditions.

A Diagnostic Decision Support System for BMP Selection in Small Urban Watershed

Best Management Practices (BMPs) have become the most effective way to mitigate non-point source pollution (NPS) issues. Much attention has been paid to NPS in rural areas, where agricultural activities increase nutrients, toxics, and sediments in surface water. Stormwater from urban areas is also a major contributor to NPS pollution. For watersheds bearing various soil types and land uses, a single type of BMP cannot be the panacea to all stormwater problems. To solve these problems, a Diagnostic Decision Support System (DDSS) was developed in this research. The DDSS can identify and locate the most critical NPS areas (hotspots) within a watershed in high spatial resolution. The DDSS can provide a series of spatially distributed small-scale BMPs which are effective in treating the NPS and are suitable for the physical environment. The BMPs, varying in types and locations, are recommended at HRU (Hydrologic Response Unit) level. The DDSS was tested in Watts Branch, a small urban watershed of the Anacostia River in metropolitan Washington D.C., USA. The process-based hydrologic model, Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT), was used to simulate watershed responses. The simulation results were then used by the DDSS for BMP recommendation. Hotspots of different NPS were successfully located and prescribed with spatially distributed BMPs. The DDSS serves as a useful tool to better understand urban watersheds and to make proper stormwater management plans.

Multiobjective, Socioeconomic, Boundary-Emanating, Nearest Distance Algorithm for Stormwater Low-Impact BMP Selection and Placement

AbstractStormwater low-impact development (LID) has become an important method for the reduction of stormwater runoff emanating from impervious surfaces to local water bodies. The extra runoff from human-made impervious surfaces overloads water bodies with polluted runoff. Since many LID best management practices (BMPs) exist, and many areas have multiple subcatchments, it is important to carefully select which BMPs to place in each subcatchment and its placement in order to minimize cost, but also to give the highest chance of owner BMP maintenance. LID BMPs are often constructed on private land and maintenance can be at the owner’s expense and, therefore, not guaranteed. A new algorithm, entitled multi-objective, socio-economic, boundary-emanating, nearest distance (MOSEBEND), that is easily used by practitioners is introduced and demonstrated here for a road in a community showing that the algorithm allows the selection of the set of BMPs on the various subcatchments with the lowest cost, highest runof...

Improving Nonlinear Optimization Algorithms for BMP Implementation in a Combined Sewer System

AbstractImplementing best management practices (BMP) on watersheds could help mitigate the effects of urbanization and climate change on the hydrological cycle. Techniques such as retention ponds, rain gardens, infiltration trenches, and green roofs vary in technical performance, space requirements, and cost. The trade-offs between these present a challenge toward BMP selection and placement, therefore requiring optimization. Three optimization methods were applied for BMP implementation on a combined sewer: linear programming (LP); genetic algorithm (GA); and simulated annealing (SA). LP served as a reference point. The SA solution was only marginally better, 4.7% cheaper, whereas GA’s solution was 17.9% more expensive after computations froze at a local minimum; both methods required approximately 18 h of computational time. A second round of optimization used the solution from LP as a starting point. This modification significantly increased the performance of GA, providing a new solution that was 14% ...

Estimating the gross budget of applied nitrogen and phosphorus in tea plantations

Abstract To increase crop yield, high fertilizer application rates have generally been used. The residual fertilizers potentially become a source of diffused pollution, and degrade soil and water quality. Such nonpoint source pollution is a major threat to reservoir eutrophication. The best management practices (BMPs) are usually used to prevent eutrophication; however, the environmental distribution of the applied fertilizers has not been understood properly. This could lead to a biased assessment of the rational quantity of nitrogen and phosphorous applied and the selection of BMPs. A field investigation of 32 plantations and 4 forests in the Feitsui Reservoir watershed, Taiwan, was conducted. Storm runoff water and soils were sampled, and a mass balance was used to demonstrate the gross nutrient budget. The results showed that when applying fertilizers of 2700 kg ha−1 in tea plantations only 18.3% of applied nitrogen and 5.5% of applied phosphorus were utilized by tea plants. Less than 5% of applied phosphorus was released in storm runoff, and more than 90% remained in the field. Approximately 30% of the nitrogen was lost through storm runoff, and 52% was stored in the soil mass. Therefore, reducing fertilizer application was recommended as the principal BMP, and collecting and treating storm runoff was suggested for controlling nitrogen pollution. The current management of soil erosion is an efficient measure for controlling phosphorus pollution.

Methodology for Selecting Best Management Practices Integrating Multiple Stakeholders and Criteria. Part 1: Methodology

The implementation of stormwater Best Management Practices (BMPs) could help re-establish the natural hydrological cycle of watersheds after urbanization, with each BMP presenting a different performance across a range of criteria (flood prevention, pollutant removal, etc.). Additionally, conflicting views from the relevant stakeholders may arise, resulting in a complex selection process. This paper proposes a methodology for BMP selection based on the application of multi-criteria decision aid (MCDA) methods, integrating multiple stakeholder priorities and BMP combinations. First, in the problem definition, the MCDA methods, relevant criteria and design guidelines are selected. Next, information from the preliminary analysis of the watershed is used to obtain a list of relevant BMPs. The third step comprises the watershed modeling and analysis of the BMP alternatives to obtain performance values across purely objective criteria. Afterwards, a stakeholder analysis based on survey applications is carried out to obtain social performance values and criteria priorities. Then, the MCDA methods are applied to obtain the final BMP rankings. The last step considers the sensitivity analysis and rank comparisons in order to draw the final conclusions and recommendations. Future improvements to the methodology could explore inclusion of multiple objective analysis, and alternative means for obtaining social performance values.

FINANCIAL CAPACITY OF INDUSTRIAL ENTERPRISE

The purpose of the article is to determine the economic content of the category of capacity, the study of the influence of the main factors affecting the operation of the industrial enterprises potential, as well as the rationale for the selection of best management practices. For every Ukrainian industrial enterprise is an urgent problem of the formation of optimal resources to ensure the stable operation of the enterprise, stability and solvency. The question remains effective capacity management system, taking into account the current realities of the Ukrainian economy. The study highlighted the direction of the management process of the industrial enterprises. The components and elements of the of the control system and its functional units. Methodology. Data for the study were taken from scientific publications and legislation. The methods of general scientific knowledge, as well as integrated assessment models, is to develop and study the dynamics of the integral index, built on a clearly identified mechanism of mathematical relationships. Results. On the basis of a generalized approach to the definition of financial potential category author suggested his own definition of this category, offered economic components of capacity. Practical implication. The result of this study is on the direction of cash flow optimization in the enterprise at the expense of control flows. Formation of current funding matrix with the release of surplus area, and a balanced current funding deficit. Value/originality. On the basis of the study proved that the implementation of this approach facilitates the development of highquality management decisions on the development of a management plan for the flows in an industrial plant, consequently, will increase its competitiveness.

Geostatistical independent simulation of spatially correlated soil variables

The selection of best management practices to reduce soil and water pollution often requires estimation of soil properties. It is important to find an efficient and robust technique to simulate spatially correlated soils parameters. Co-kriging and co-simulation are techniques that can be used. These methods are limited in terms of computer simulation due to the problem of solving large co-kriging systems and difficulties in fitting a valid model of coregionalization. The order of complexity increases as the number of covariables increases. This paper presents a technique for the conditional simulation of a non-Gaussian vector random field on point support scale. The technique is termed Independent Component Analysis (ICA). The basic principle underlining ICA is the determination of a linear representation of non-Gaussian data so that the components are considered statistically independent. With such representation, it would be easy and more computationally efficient to develop direct variograms for the components. The process is presented in two stages. The first stage involves the ICA decomposition. The second stage involves sequential Gaussian simulation of the generated components (which are derived from the first stage). This technique was applied for spatially correlated extractable cations such as magnesium (Mg) and iron (Fe) in a Canadian watershed. This paper has a strong application in stochastic quantification of uncertainties of soil attributes in soil remediation and soil rehabilitation.

Hydrological efficiency evaluation tool of urban stormwater best management practices

The Brussels Environment Agency designed a decision-support tool (QUADEAU) for the sustainable management of stormwater in urban and developed areas. The tool aims to evaluate and compare alternative scenarios for reducing water runoff in public spaces inside any neighbourhood. QUADEAU is an easy to use tool for urban designers and watershed practitioners allowing the evaluation of the hydrological efficiency of any public space in a renovation or a new urban project designed with best management practices (BMP). It is a tool thought out to provide processes of optimization and selection of BMP to meet the hydrological objectives and the program needs of the public space project. This paper describes how QUADEAU is setup and how BMP are evaluated inside the tool. Any public space project is modelled in the tool by giving specific characteristics of all areas of the project. Connections between surfaces of the project are introduced within the tool by creating flow networks. BMPs are selected according to site constraints and program requirements of the urban project before being designed by giving values to specific parameters for each BMP selected. The hydrological efficiency of the project, i.e. the amount of water that does not reach the outlet because it has been managed earlier in BMP, is evaluated during and after the design rain event. The tool gives the user the opportunity to optimize his project if the hydrological efficiency does not match the hydrological thresholds determined in function of the imperviousness of the neighbourhood, the type of project and the local hydrology.