SECTION 319
FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
WORKSHOP
SPONSORED BY
THE ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION AGENCY
REGION VIII
A
PRIL 6, 2000
THE MISSION INN
RIVERSIDE, CALIFORNIA
TABLE OF CONTENTS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY.................................................................................................................
.
INTRODUCTION ..............................................................................................................................
.
PROJECT GOALS, OBJECTIVES, AND ACTIVITIES...................................................................
.
PLANNED AND ACTUAL MILESTONES, PRODUCTS AND COMPLETION DATES......
.
EVALUATION OF GOAL ACHIEVEMENT AND
RELATIONSHIP TO THE STATE
NPS MANAGEMENT PLAN
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION..........................................................................................
.
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES DEVELOPED AND/OR REVISED ....................................
.
MONITORING RESULTS.................................................................................................................
.
BMP EFFECTIVENESS EVALUATIONS ................................................................................
.
SURFACE WATER IMPROVEMENTS....................................................................................
.
CHEMICAL .........................................................................................................................
.
BIOLOGICAL......................................................................................................................
.
PHYSICAL/HABITAT........................................................................................................
.
GROUND WATER IMPROVEMENTS.....................................................................................
.
METALS..............................................................................................................................
.
CHEMISTRY.......................................................................................................................
.
NUTRIENTS........................................................................................................................
.
OTHER MONITORING .............................................................................................................
.
QUALITY ASSURANCE REPORTING....................................................................................
.
RESULTS OF BMP OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE REVIEWS...................................
.
COORDINATION EFFORTS............................................................................................................
.
COORDINATION FROM OTHER STATE AGENCIES ..........................................................
.
OTHER STATE ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAM COORDINATION ...................................
.
FEDERAL COORDINATION....................................................................................................
.
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
PROJECT TITLE _________________________________
PROJECT START DATE___________ PROJECT COMPLETION
DATE___________
FUNDING: TOTAL BUDGET _________________
TOTAL EPA GRANT _________________
TOTAL EXPENDITURES
OF EPA FUNDS _________________
TOTAL SECTION 319
MATCH ACCRUED _________________
BUDGET REVISIONS _________________
TOTAL EXPENDITURES _________________
SUMMARY ACCOMPLISHMENTS
SECTION 319 NONPOINT SOURCE POLLUTION CONTROL PROGRAM
WATERSHED PROJECT FINAL REPORT
(Project Title Here)
by
(Author and Project Sponsor Here)
(Date Here)
This project was conducted in cooperation with the State of _________________ and the United
States Environmental Protection Agency, Region 8.
Grant #
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS TABLE OF CONTENTS
APRIL 6, 2000
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1. EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
2. BACKGROUND
3. FINAL PROJECT EXAMPLES
4. FINAL PROJECT FORMATS
A
.ASSESSMENT/PLANNING PROJECT REPORTS
B
.GROUNDWATER PROJECT REPORTS
C
.INFORMATION/EDUCATION/TRAINING/DEMONSTRATION PROJECT REPORTS
D
.WATERSHED PROJECT REPORTS
5. FUTURE DIRECTIONS
6. PRESENTATION SLIDES
A
.CWA SECTION 319(H) FINAL REPORTING: ESSENTIAL ELEMENTS OF A
SUCCESSFUL NPS PROJECT REPORT
B
.MAKING THE MOST OF YOUR FINAL REPORT
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
APRIL 6, 2000 1
INTRODUCTION
Preparation of a final project report is an important aspect of the section 319
grants program. These reports convey important information about NPS projects,
their success or failure, and the way in which grant funds were spent. Final
project reports can function as a multipurpose document that goes beyond
fulfilling the requirements of a section 319 grant. This notebook describes the
purpose of section 319 final reports, the information that should be included in the
report, examples of especially effective elements from 319 reports, and ways to
expand the final report to be used for outreach and education, building
partnerships, and many other uses.
S
ECTION 319(H) BACKGROUND
Since 1990 EPA regional offices have funded projects under Section 319(h) of the
Clean Water Act (CWA) to help implement state nonpoint source (NPS)
management programs. These funds supported a wide variety of activities,
including
− Watershed projects and watershed planning
− Technical assistance
− Financial assistance in the form of cost share
− Information and education
− Training
− Demonstration projects including technology transfer
− Monitoring to assess the success of specific NPS implementation projects
− Monitoring to assess the effectiveness of NPS controls
− Watershed Restoration Action Strategy (WRAS) development
− Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) development
In 2000 the Section 319 NPS program will reach two major milestones. This is
the 10
th
year of state implementation of NPS programs with congressional
funding. With the additional funding in FY 2000, the program will pass the $1
billion mark. The NPS program has arrived at an appropriate point for states and
EPA to evaluate the program’s accomplishments and the pace of progress relative
to the extent of the remaining NPS problems. This juncture also affords an
opportunity to consider how to improve efforts to track progress and report
success in controlling NPS pollution to the public.
WHAT IS A SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORT?
An important part of the Section 319 grants process is preparation of the final
project report, in which a state or local project sponsor presents a summary of a
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
2APRIL 6, 2000
project, including background information, water quality data and trends (where
applicable), and other supporting information to describe the accomplishments
and milestones reached. The final project report provides valuable information to
the public, EPA, and other organizations to gauge the success of the project and
the NPS controls implemented.
Project sponsors should keep final report development in the forefront of their
minds throughout the project. Data, photographs, maps, and other information are
collected most efficiently while the project is underway. For example, elements
such as before-and-after photos that show improvements in the water resource
would not be possible if baseline photographs were not taken early in the project.
Several parts of the final report can be developed while the project is underway,
including project descriptions, maps, goals and objectives, and the history of
water quality problems in the watershed. Sections of the report that should be
written as the project draws to a close include achievement of milestones,
evaluation of goal achievement, coordination activities, funding, problematic
aspects of the project, and recommendations for future activities. The final report
should not be written as an afterthought—rather, it should be integrated from
start to finish with the planning, coordination, and implementation aspects of the
project.
WHAT ARE THE BENEFITS OF PREPARING A SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORT?
Section 319 final project reports can go beyond fulfilling the grant requirements
of documenting progress accomplished on the workplans. Ultimately, EPA hopes
to better account for improvements brought about by the totality of water quality
programs that are relevant to NPS pollution control. Section 319 final project
reports document the location, scope, and progress of projects funded under the
Section 319 program. This information can be used to help facilitate coordination
between watershed projects. All parties involved can benefit by sharing resources
and information and avoiding duplication of efforts.
Section 319 final project reports also provide tangible evidence that grant money
was effectively spent. EPA can present data showing improvements in water
quality, information on new programs and projects that resulted from the 319
project, and other 319 success stories to Congress to guide future budget
allocations for additional NPS projects.
Section 319 final project reports can be used to garner support from watershed
groups and other potential partners interested in continuing an NPS project after
the 319 grant has ended. Results presented in a Section 319 final project report
also can be used to support proposals for new grants. A Section 319 final project
report is an excellent means for identifying additional water quality issues in the
watershed and for proposing additional studies and programs to address these
issues.
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
APRIL 6, 2000 3
An attractive, informative, and user-friendly report can be used as outreach
material to inform the public about projects taking place in their watershed and
can help to gain widespread support for these and future projects. A short fact
sheet or brochure that includes information from the report can help to spread the
word about the project. The fact sheet can be derived from the report’s executive
summary and can be augmented with graphical and data elements from other
sections. Also, the report can be published on the World Wide Web with links for
more information to encourage feedback and participation. If the report is going
to be published on the web, special consideration should be given to the report
format to facilitate the transition between the printed page and an electronic
document.
W
HAT IS INCLUDED IN THIS HANDBOOK?
This handbook is divided into four sections that provide more information about
Section 319 and grant reporting requirements:
BACKGROUND This section summarizes the laws and regulations
that govern the Section 319 grant program.
FINAL PROJECT EXAMPLES This section presents examples of graphical and
data elements from example final reports that are
especially useful and informative. An explanation
of why each element is effective is provided.
FINAL PROJECT FORMATS This section describes the “nuts and bolts” of
reports. Four report formats are presented along
with a description of the purpose of each type of
report and additional clarification of the information
being requested for certain elements of the reports.
These four formats are
− Assessment project reports
− Watershed reports
− Information and education reports
− Groundwater reports
FUTURE DIRECTIONS The final section provides information on how to
use all or portions of Section 319 final project
reports to foster public education and participation,
to involve other stakeholders, and to secure
additional funding for continued support of NPS
control efforts.
BACKGROUND
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS BACKGROUND
APRIL 6, 2000 1
INTRODUCTION
In 1987 Congress recognized that state and local water authorities needed
assistance with developing and implementing measures to control nonpoint source
(NPS) pollution. The enactment of Section 319 of the Clean Water Act (CWA)
established a national program to control nonpoint sources of water pollution, as
well as a means to help fund state and local implementation of nonpoint source
management programs. Nonpoint source pollution occurs as water from rain and
snowmelt moves over and through the ground collecting natural and human-made
pollutants and eventually enters lakes, rivers, streams, wetlands, estuaries, coastal
waters, and ground water. Atmospheric deposition and hydrologic modification
are also sources of nonpoint source pollution.
Section 319 addresses nonpoint source pollution control by requiring states to
report to EPA all the major sources of nonpoint source pollution and nonpoint
source problems in their state. States must also develop management programs
with identified best management practices (BMPs) suitable for reducing nonpoint
source pollution. To ensure the management programs are realized, Congress
established Section 319(h) to award grants to states for implementation of
nonpoint source management programs.
S
ECTION 319 GRANT FUNDING CRITERIA
The EPA awards Section 319 grants based on statutory, regulatory and
administrative criteria that assures management of funds in a fiscally judicious
manner.
PURPOSE OF GRANT
Section 319 (h)(1) allows EPA to award grants only to states with approved
nonpoint source programs for implementation. Each funded activity and project
should follow and achieve goals included in the nonpoint source program. An
application for a 319 grant should contain information about the type of BMPs the
state intends to use to assist, encourage, or require control of nonpoint source
pollution (Section 319(h)(2)).
CONTINUING ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAM GRANTS
All Section 319(h) funds are awarded as Continuing Environmental Program
Grants, pursuant to Title 40 of the Code of Federal Regulations (CFR), Part 35,
Subpart A. Unlike most other continuing environmental grants, Section 319(h)
grants are not required to be closed out annually; rather, states and regions are
encouraged to work together to ensure continuation of the grants.
BACKGROUND SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
2APRIL 6, 2000
REPORTING REQUIREMENTS FOR SECTION 319 GRANTS
All Section 319(h) grants are subject to the requirements under 40 CFR Part 31
and Part 35, Subpart A, general grant regulations and reporting requirements for
federal grants awarded to states and localities. Section 319(h) of the CWA also
has reporting requirements for grantees. The following sections include a
description of the basic reporting requirements from 40 CFR Part 31.40 that are
important to section 319 final reports. Sections 3 and 4 of this training manual
provide more specific descriptions, suggestions, and examples of final reports.
SIGNIFICANT DEVELOPMENTS
If an event that has a significant impact on the grant occurs between performance
report dates, then 40 CFR 31.40(d) requires states to send EPA a report describing
how the significant development will affect performance. A significant
development can include an event that causes a delay in meeting milestones,
goals, and objectives or a favorable development that indicates a state might meet
its milestones sooner than anticipated or can reduce their costs.
G
RANT REPORTING AND TRACKING SYSTEM (GRTS)
The current reporting/tracking program enables EPA and states to describe the
progress they have made in implementing the national NPS program. The Grant
Reporting and Tracking System (GRTS) electronically tracks projects and
activities funded with CWA Section 319(h) funds. This national database began
tracking approximately 2,400 projects. From 1990 to 1999, this number has
increased to 11,150 projects nationally, with 750 projects worth $81,000,000
currently being tracked in Region 8. The projects can be referenced
geographically by cataloging unit, latitude/longitude number, and by state,
complete with project descriptions and evaluations. In 1997, GRTS was migrated
from a mainframe database to Lotus Notes. The system is capable of producing
structured reports for state use as well as ad-hoc reporting capabilities. Currently,
states have the ability to attach final project reports in GRTS, in an area called
FEEDBACK. There is interest in creating a specific separate area on GRTS for
final reports, however, the system administrators are waiting until there are more
states that want to use it.
The primary purpose of the GRTS database is for funding, budgeting, and
tracking 12 mandated elements that are reported to Congress annually. GRTS
data entry, system support and maintenance, training and software/hardware
needs are administered by states as part of their NPS program. GRTS is also used
for obtaining project information nationally and is used by states to facilitate mid-
year and annual electronic reporting. Key users of GRTS are federal agencies,
states, tribes, regional NPS project officers, and others. To help with data
reporting and management, EPA encourages states to report several nationally
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS BACKGROUND
APRIL 6, 2000 3
mandated data elements. Listed below are some of those elements, their
definitions, and examples.
− NPS Program or Project Title
− NPS category – Indicates the primary NPS category of pollution
applicable to the project, such as, urban runoff, agriculture, and
silviculture.
− Functional category – This selection should identify the principle or
main approach, remedy, or solution that will achieve the objective of
the project. For example, best management practices, design
implementation, information and education (I&E), water quality
assessment, and monitoring activities (TMDL) are all functional
categories. (Note: NPS category and functional category can be
confusing! Here is an easy way to remember the difference: “the NPS
category is the pollution, the functional category is the solution.)
− Waterbody type – This data field identifies the waterbody type, such as
rivers, streams, wetlands, lakes, groundwater, and reservoirs.
− 8-digit hydrologic unit code – The U.S. Geological Survey designation
for the geographic area or watershed affected by the NPS project or
pollution source.
− The budget – This selection will determine the total budget based on
information about the total 319(h) funds, EPA other funds, other
federal funds, state funds, state in-kind funds, local funds and other
funds data fields.
− Amount of 319(h) funds allocated to sub-state recipients under the
grant – This selection determines the total dollar amount awarded to
subgrantee’s.
The information contained in GRTS enables EPA to more efficiently respond to
inquiries from constituent groups, Office of Management and Budget, and
Congress. Region VIII encourages states to work with EPA to help make report
tracking more efficient and eliminate duplication of work by using GRTS. GRTS
can make grant reporting easier, and it can be a useful educational tool by
providing information about state and national nonpoint source programs and
projects. However, the quality of the data and information entered into the
database will reflect the quality of what goes into it.
Currently, EPA is working with states to revise the system to enable the Agency
and states to more effectively account for progress in implementing the NPS
program. A more integrated system would allow EPA and other system users to
relate the implementation of 319-funded projects to the priority problems
identified in TMDLs and 305(b) assessments. In the long term, it might also
enable EPA to link more effectively with both federal agency programs (e.g.,
USDA's Environmental Quality Incentives Program) and state funding programs.
FINAL PROJECT EXAMPLES
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS FINAL PROJECT EXAMPLES
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FINAL REPORT EXAMPLES
This section of the 319 Final Report Training Handbook contains examples of
effective text and graphics from reports that can be used as models for project
sponsors when developing their final report. The examples include maps, tables,
graphs, charts, and excerpts from completed final reports. These examples can
help the project sponsor design an interesting and informative report that targets
both technical and nontechnical audiences.
Project sponsors are encouraged to think ahead and identify their data analysis
and display needs before the project is completed. For example, before-and-after
photographs are a great way to show changes that have occurred because of the
project. These graphics may not be possible unless project sponsors plan ahead
and develop them through the duration of the project.
An advantage to including nontechnical explanations of data and results and tell-
all graphics in final reports is that they can be used in newspaper articles, fact
sheets, bulletins, or other outreach materials. Project sponsors should keep in
mind that the report is important documentation of project accomplishments, and
can be used for many purposes. The reports should be geared for a wide range of
audiences.
FINAL PROJECT EXAMPLES SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
2APRIL 6, 2000
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
Project Title: Owl Mountain Watershed Project Coordination
Grant Number: 98-11111 Grant Source: State Department of Water
Initiation Date: July 10, 1999 Expiration Date: April 6, 2000
FUNDING
Total EPA Grant: Cash $152,000
Federal Agency Contributions: Cash $233,100
State & Private Contributions: Cash $48,536
Subtotal Cash: $433,636
Federal Agency Contributions: In-kind $369,750
Local Match: $162,438
Subtotal In-kind: $532,188
TOTAL FUNDING $965,824
EXPENDITURES
Expenditures of EPA Funds: $152,000
Other Expenditures: $281,636
TOTAL EXPENDITURES $433,636
Summary Accomplishments:
BMP’s: Owl Mountain Partnership assisted in the completion of 18 water development
projects as part of grazing rotation systems designed to improve livestock distribution and
land health and to protect riparian areas. Of the 18 water developments, 13 were partially or
totally paid for with 319 Nonpoint Source funds. We constructed 23 ½ miles of permanent
fencing for grazing systems and 42 ¼ miles of temporary electric fences for pasture rotation or
protection of vegetative treatments. 3, 021 acres were treated with spike, 2, 4-D, brush
beating, or seeding. Please see project summaries in Appendix Sections C, D, and E for
accomplishments on individual sites.
Outreach: OMP published a brochure and has a web page on the Internet. We continue to host
at least three project tours each year and have many slide shows for college classes and other
interested groups.
Other Issues: The Owl Mountain Partnership has expanded its boundaries to all of Jackson
county. This has enables us to work with more ranches and to focus on projects impacting
listed streams in North Park. As we end the first phase of our demonstration project, we are in
the process of revising our vision statement and objectives for the next five years.
Here is one example of an executive summary. This part of
the report should include a brief list of funding sources and
expenditures and a description of the overall accomplishments
of the project. This example, which is from the Owl Mountain
Watershed Project Continuation final report, follows the
Regional format and gives a brief but effective summary of
the project’s many successes.
Lists of
funding
sources and
expenditures
Clear summary of
accomplishments
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS FINAL PROJECT EXAMPLES
APRIL 6, 2000 3
INTRODUCTION
The introduction should contain background information on the project including
the project area, HUC number(s), a description of data available from historical
reports, rationale for pursuing grant funds, and the NPS problems in the project
area. To facilitate this understanding, project sponsors should include maps in the
introduction to help orient the reader. Land cover or land use maps, topographic
maps, road maps, and land area maps are great ways of displaying locational
information and details about the study site(s).
This GIS coverage shows
the different land cover
types present in the
watershed. Maps, such as
this one, illustrate the
project’s characteristics
and settin
g
.
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NTRODUCTION
(
CONTINUED
)
This shows land
ownership within
the study area
and indicates
where monitoring
sites are located.
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS FINAL PROJECT EXAMPLES
APRIL 6, 2000 5
INTRODUCTION (CONTINUED)
This map is especially useful
for the introduction because it
clearly defines the boundary of
the study area within the state
and provides landmarks (roads
and rivers
)
for reference.
FINAL PROJECT EXAMPLES SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
6APRIL 6, 2000
PROJECT GOALS, OBJECTIVES, AND ACTIVITIES
Goal: To identify specific areas within the Gunnison basin that are
contributing the highest selenium loadings to the river system so
remediation efforts and best management practices can be concentrated
in those areas to reduce the selenium concentrations to protect fish and
wildlife species, including some listed threatened and endangered
species, while maintaining the viability of current land uses within the
basin.
Objective 1: Characterize the selenium loads for the tributaries of the Gunnison and
the North Fork of the Gunnison Rivers.
Objective 2: Characterize the selenium loads for 3 tributaries on the east side of the
Uncompahgre River downstream from Colona. This characterization
will identify areas where implementation of best management practices
would provide the largest reduction of selenium loading.
Objective 3: Establish an outreach and education program to water users and
residents in the area to inform them of the selenium problem and
provide them with the information necessary to implement BMPs and
remediation practices for reducing selenium loading.
The goal describes
the ultimate purpose
of the project
Objectives
provide
more
specific
details
about how
the goal
will be met
Goal: To decrease the slope of the regression between discharge vs. TSS by
half in 4 out of 5 years (for stream x, from 0.51 to 0.26).
Objective: Reduce sediment coming from 96,000 acres of eroding condition
rangeland by 130,000 tons/year.
Task: Reestablish vegetative ground cover on 3,000 acres of rangeland (very
poor condition and located on south facing slopes) by: controlling
weeds on 1,000 acres; reseeding 3,000 acres with improved varieties of
grasses and forbs, installing fencing, livestock water developments;
applying deferred grazing on 3.000 acres.
Products: Establish suitable vegetative cover on 3,000 acres; reseed 3,000 acres;
install cross fencing and livestock water developments and deferred
grazing on 3,000 acres. Reduce sediment, with associated phosphorous,
by 24,000 tons annually.
Overall project
goal is relatively
broad-based
Specific,
concise
ob
j
ective
The task is an
“action item
.
”
A list of products
clearly defines the
expected or achieved
results/successes
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS FINAL PROJECT EXAMPLES
APRIL 6, 2000 7
PLANNED AND ACTUAL MILESTONES, PRODUCTS, AND COMPLETION DATES
Activity Year 1 Year 2 Year 3 Year 4 Year 5
Demonstration—Winter grazing and
feeding on Wolf Creek
✔
Implement 4 grazing BMPs on range
units 9 and 10 on Little Porcupine
Creek
✔
Monitor range units 9 and 10 for range
condition and water quality changes
✔✔✔✔
Stabilize abandoned logging roads
✔✔✔✔
This table shows milestones
for various tasks, which in
this case are BMPs. A table
is a useful way to
summarize this information.
Objective 2: Management Plan Implementation/BMPs
Task #4: Water Developments: We projected completing 2-5 water
developments per year from 1996 to 1999, for a total of 8-20 water
developments. We actually completed 18 water development projects,
all as part of grazing rotation systems designed to improve livestock
distribution and land health. These projects consisted of ponds, wells,
springs, and associated pipelines to increase water-holding capacity for
wildlife and livestock. Several water development BMP’s were
constructed to provide additional water sources in upland areas to keep
livestock from continuously using riparian areas.
Here is a useful example of a
task description for a final
report: clearly stating initial
plans, then describing what
was actually completed. A
great way to show that the
task was a success.
FINAL PROJECT EXAMPLES SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
8APRIL 6, 2000
PLANNED AND ACTUAL MILESTONES, PRODUCTS, AND COMPLETION DATES
(CONTINUED)
This task description includes
before-and-after photos, which
are an excellent way to illustrate
the success of a project.
Pictures also help to describe the
project area.
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS FINAL PROJECT EXAMPLES
APRIL 6, 2000 9
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
Good, concise
description of
the
p
roblem
Evaluation of
project includes
future activities
Project summaries are an excellent way of
describing the tasks planned for each objective, are
a good addition to any final report, and can be
included either in the supplemental information
section or as an appendix.
FINAL PROJECT EXAMPLES SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
10 APRIL 6, 2000
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION (CONTINUED)
Task #4: WATER DEVELOPMENT BMPs
OWL98-11 Baller Ranch Management Plan: Speck Draw spring (BMP#)
OWL 96-11 Hebron Management Plan: Hebron well and pipeline (BMP#)
This example is a list of the
projects completed for a task.
Include this list in the text of the
final report or as an appendix.
This is a sample
newsletter from the Owl
Mountain Watershed
Project Continuation final
report. Newsletters are a
great way to reach out to
locals and can help gain
local support. Make sure
to cite any outreach
material developed for a
task or objective and
include examples in an
appendix.
Use plain
language for
non-
technical
readers
Always
include
contact
information
for interested
individuals
Pictures are an
easy way to get a
message across
to readers.
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS FINAL PROJECT EXAMPLES
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MONITORING RESULTS
Included in this section are several examples of the tools used to display
information in the monitoring results section of the final report. The monitoring
results section should include a good data analysis summary for all projects or
monitoring sites, show any trends in water quality monitoring, and emphasize the
surrogate measures used. The examples provided in this section include several
tables, charts, and graphs, which are good models for use in other final reports.
These examples are easy to read, contain the right amount of information, and
when appropriate, aggregate the data to display the monitoring results over
several years. Project sponsors are encouraged to model these examples of data
summary and presentation for all types of 319 NPS projects. All of the following
examples came from the Otter Creek Field Evaluations and Progress Report.
This graph is
especially useful
because it shows
where all the
monitoring points
are alon
g
the stream.
This graph
is clear and
easy to
understand.
This example and the
next example came from
the section on Channel
Geomorphology
monitoring. The project
sponsors for this NPS
project placed permanent
benchmarks and cross
sections along the stream
to characterize the
physical attributes and
changes of the stream
over time.
FINAL PROJECT EXAMPLES SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
12 APRIL 6, 2000
MONITORING RESULTS (CONTINUED)
These graphs show the channel cross
section for one transect in a four plot
series from 1993 to 1998. This is a
excellent way to show results for each
year and still display trends.
Clear and
concise
g
ra
p
hic
The right
amount of
information
Putting similar graphs
on one page helps the
reader to recognize
trends.
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS FINAL PROJECT EXAMPLES
APRIL 6, 2000 13
MONITORING RESULTS (CONTINUED)
Here is a great
example of
trend reporting!
The results are
shown for
several years on
one graph,
which help
demonstrate the
changes in
pebble size over
several
y
ears.
Whenever
appropriate, project
sponsor should
include trend graphs
in their final re
p
ort.
If available, use
color when
showing several
sets of data on a
single graph.
The next two examples came from the section on
Substrate and Streamside evaluation. The project
sponsors looked at the daily radiation and recorded
the pebble size for each transect.
FINAL PROJECT EXAMPLES SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
14 APRIL 6, 2000
MONITORING RESULTS (CONTINUED)
Here is an excellent example of
informative tables. Never cram
many data sets onto one table.
Instead, separate several years of
data, like in this example—it is
easier for the reader to understand.
If there are
several sets of
data tables for
one project, put
them on the
same page.
This helps the
reader make
comparisons.
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS FINAL PROJECT EXAMPLES
APRIL 6, 2000 15
MONITORING RESULTS (CONTINUED)
These graphs show changes in
the plant community at all sites.
Displaying them side by side
on the same page makes it easy
to compare results.
Trend
reporting!
Another great
example of
data summary
If possible,
use color on
graphs and
charts.
FINAL PROJECT EXAMPLES SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
16 APRIL 6, 2000
MONITORING RESULTS (CONTINUED)
Here are examples of the surrogate measures
used to evaluate the changes in water quality
in the streams of the Otter Creek project.
Surrogate
measures are
an excellent
way to
demonstrate
improvement
in water
quality.
More trend
reporting!
Do not
forget to
use color.
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS FINAL PROJECT EXAMPLES
APRIL 6, 2000 17
MONITORING RESULTS (CONTINUED)
A “before”
photo of the
p
ro
j
ect
Pictures are an excellent way to
show information, especially
improvements to a watershed or
waterbody.
An “after”
photo of the
p
ro
j
ect
Plan ahead!
Take before and
after shots of the
project.
Pictures are also a
great non-technical
way of showing the
results of the project.
FINAL PROJECT EXAMPLES SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
18 APRIL 6, 2000
MONITORING RESULTS (CONTINUED)
A “before”
photo of
the
p
ro
j
ect
Whenever possible, project
sponsors should include
pictures of improvements or
changes brought about by a
successful NPS
p
ro
j
ect.
An “after”
photo of
the project
Pictures really help
show the
accomplishments of
the
p
ro
j
ect.
Pictures help
reports reach a
wide range of
audiences.
FINAL PROJECT FORMATS
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS FINAL PROJECT FORMATS
ASSESSMENT/PLANNING PROJECTS 1
ASSESSMENT/PLANNING PROJECTS
Assessment projects are sometimes needed as part of specific watershed projects or as
part of an overall statewide, regional, or ecoregional effort. They are also used for
implementation targeting or program development. Assessments facilitate the
development of watershed project proposals, Total Maximum Daily Loads (TMDLs), and
watershed restoration action strategies (WRASs) and plans, help to more clearly identify
and prioritize nonpoint source problems, and aid in developing and evaluating NPS
management programs and Best Management Practice (BMP) effectiveness. A template
showing the format for assessment/planning projects is provided on page 5. The
following sections are included in an assessment/planning project report:
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The executive summary provides a brief overview of the project with start and
finish dates, funding information, and a summary of accomplishments. The
summary should outline the goals that were set for the project and include a
statement of whether some or all of these goals were met. Project sponsors also
might provide information on significant accomplishments and describe how
high-priority issues were addressed and what products were produced.
1.0 INTRODUCTION
When developing the introduction, project sponsors are encouraged to consider
multiple audiences in addition to states and EPA Region 8. The introduction
should contain background information on the project, including the project area,
HUC number, a description of data available from historical reports, and rationale
for pursuing grant funds, especially the NPS problems in the project area. Much
of this information can be derived from the statement of need and project
description in the original section 319 proposal.
The introduction to a final report should contain the following information:
− Identification of the waterbody or watershed with HUC code if available,
including details on the need for an additional assessment project and
desired data endpoints (i.e., TMDLs). As each project begins collecting
data, there should be some prethinking of what metrics will be used as
TMDL endpoints—endpoints that will be used to judge the success of any
watershed management measures. Endpoints could be any number of
direct or surrogate measures related to the physical, biological, or
chemical integrity of the waterbodies. The assessment part of the project
should be sure to collect data relative to that metric that will eventually be
used in the TMDL.
− Description of water quality problems, including identification of NPS
pollutants of concern and water quality standards that are violated or
threatened.
FINAL PROJECT FORMATS SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
2ASSESSMENT/PLANNING PROJECTS
− A description of how the project was consistent with the state NPS
management program and other state programs including 305(b) reports,
Unified Watershed Assessments (UWAs), Total Maximum Daily Load
(TMDL) development, 303(d) listings, and source water protection
reports.
− A general project description (keeping in mind the following section will
explain the goals and objectives).
− A map of the region with the assessment project area highlighted and a
site map with monitoring stations and assessment areas identified.
2.0 PROJECT GOALS, OBJECTIVES, AND ACTIVITIES
It is important to describe the goals for the project. In general, the goals are broad
statements about project needs that are achievable through objectives. An
example of a goal statement is “to identify specific areas within Gunnison basin
that are contributing the highest selenium loadings to the river system so
remediation efforts and best management practices can be concentrated in those
areas to reduce the selenium concentrations to protect fish and wildlife species,
including some listed threatened or endangered species, while maintaining the
viability of current land uses within the basin.”
A description of the objectives and tasks should immediately follow each
identified goal. Objectives should provide more detail about the accomplishments
that were identified and met for each goal. An example of an objective is
“characterize the selenium loads for the tributaries of Gunnison and the North
Fork of the Gunnison Rivers.” Each objective should have a description of the
tasks that achieved the objective. Pictures, maps, graphs, or tables are useful to
describe a task or objective.
2.1 PLANNED AND ACTUAL MILESTONES, PRODUCTS, AND COMPLETION DATES
One method for presenting this information is a milestone table. Each table
should list planned and actual milestones and product completion dates. A brief
explanation should be provided when anticipated milestones were not met. A
timeline-type figure may also be used to depict schedules and milestones.
2.2 EVALUATION OF GOAL ACHIEVEMENT AND RELATIONSHIP TO THE STATE
NPS MANAGEMENT PLAN
In this section, the project sponsor should provide a description of events leading
to the achievement of each goal. The report should describe how the project
helped implement the state’s NPS management program and other state program
priorities as outlined in 305(b) reports, 303(d) lists, and UWAs. Project sponsors
should describe how the project contributed to controlling NPS pollution as part
of an integrated, watershed-wide approach.
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS FINAL PROJECT FORMATS
ASSESSMENT/PLANNING PROJECTS 3
2.3 SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
Any additional information the sponsor may want to add relating to achieving
project goals should b e included in this section. Project sponsors are encouraged
to include BMP lists and descriptions of projects or programs implemented for
each task. Pictures, maps, graphs, or tables may be used to better explain these
projects and programs. Graphical elements are strongly encouraged because they
help “tell the story” and increase the multi-purpose usefulness of the report.
3.0 M
ONITORING RESULTS
This section should include a brief discussion of the monitoring strategy and
sampling and analysis techniques used in the assessment project. Descriptions of
the models used to analyze data should also be included.
The heart of the assessment report is the discussion of the analysis and summary
of all the data collected using tables, graphs, or charts that show trends in water
quality. The section also should describe any surrogate measures (environmental
indicators) used to measure existing conditions or progress in controlling NPS
pollution. Examples of effective graphs, tables, and other data presentation
methods are shown in Section 3 of this notebook—Final Project Examples.
The monitoring results will be separated into the following categories:
− Surface water chemistry (3.1).
− Groundwater, including separate sections on metals, chemistry, and
nutrients (3.2), if applicable.
− Stream physical, biological, or habitat monitoring (3.3).
− Other monitoring (3.4).
− Quality assurance reporting (3.5), if applicable. If there is an EPA-
approved Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) or Sampling and
Analysis Plan (SAP) for the project, describe briefly how the monitoring
was consistent with the QAPP or SAP.
4.0 P
UBLIC INVOLVEMENT AND COORDINATION
In this section any public involvement and coordination activities should be
described.
4.1 STATE AGENCIES
This section identifies any cooperating state agencies and describes their role in
implementing the project.
FINAL PROJECT FORMATS SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
4ASSESSMENT/PLANNING PROJECTS
4.2 FEDERAL AGENCIES
This section identifies any cooperating federal agencies, such as the U.S.
Geological Survey, Natural Resources Conservation Service, and Fish and
Wildlife Service and describes their role in project implementation.
4.3 LOCAL GOVERNMENTS, INDUSTRY, ENVIRONMENTAL AND OTHER GROUPS,
P
UBLIC-AT-LARGE
This section describes local involvement and support from a variety of entities
and the public.
4.4 O
THER SOURCES OF FUNDS
If the project received funding through other sources, such as a non-federal match
of state and local funds, volunteer labor, and other federal funds, this section
should provide a description of those sources. A budget table may be a useful
way to present this information.
5.0 ASPECTS OF THE PROJECT THAT DID NOT WORK WELL
This section should provide an explanation of elements of the project that did not
work out as planned. For instance, this section may include a discussion of why
milestones were difficult to meet. Was the failure due to lack of good data,
inadequate funding, lack of sufficient technical resources, or “circumstances of
nature?” Was there a need for a more thorough assessment or more advanced
technology? Problems with organizational dynamics, an inability to contract
assessment work, or other confounding factors also would be discussed here.
This section can help others to avoid similar problems in the future.
6.0 FUTURE ACTIVITY RECOMMENDATIONS
This section should be used to describe any programs, activities, and/or
assessments that are or should be planned for the area of concern based on the
results of the assessment. Plans for future coordination with other agencies
should be indicated here. If the project is continuing, anticipated funding sources
and continuation of the section 319 funding should also be discussed. This
section provides an excellent opportunity to informally propose projects that will
address NPS problems in the watershed or other area of concern.
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS FINAL PROJECT FORMATS
ASSESSMENT/PLANNING PROJECTS 5
SECTION 319 NONPOINT SOURCE POLLUTION CONTROL PROGRAM
ASSESSMENT/PLANNING PROJECT FINAL REPORT
(Project Title Here)
by
(Author and Project Sponsor Here)
(Date Here)
This project was conducted in cooperation with the State of __________________ and the United
States Environmental Protection Agency, Region 8.
Grant #
FINAL PROJECT FORMATS SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
6ASSESSMENT/PLANNING PROJECTS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
PROJECT TITLE _________________________________
PROJECT START DATE__________ PROJECT COMPLETION DATE____________
FUNDING: TOTAL BUDGET__________________
TOTAL EPA GRANT __________________
TOTAL EXPENDITURES
OF EPA FUNDS __________________
TOTAL SECTION 319
MATCH ACCRUED __________________
BUDGET REVISIONS __________________
TOTAL EXPENDITURES __________________
SUMMARY ACCOMPLISHMENTS
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS FINAL PROJECT FORMATS
ASSESSMENT/PLANNING PROJECTS 7
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY..........................................................................................................
INTRODUCTION........................................................................................................................
PROJECT GOALS, OBJECTIVES, AND ACTIVITIES............................................................
PLANNED AND ACTUAL MILESTONES, PRODUCTS, AND COMPLETION
DATES..................................................................................................................................
EVALUATION OF GOAL ACHIEVEMENT.....................................................................
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION...................................................................................
MONITORING RESULTS..........................................................................................................
SURFACE WATER CHEMISTRY......................................................................................
GROUND WATER ..............................................................................................................
METALS .......................................................................................................................
CHEMISTRY ................................................................................................................
NUTRIENTS .................................................................................................................
STREAM PHYSICAL/BIOLOGICAL MONITORING ......................................................
OTHER MONITORING.......................................................................................................
QUALITY ASSURANCE REPORTING.............................................................................
PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT AND COORDINATION.................................................................
STATE AGENCIES .............................................................................................................
FEDERAL AGENCIES........................................................................................................
LOCAL GOVERNMENTS; INDUSTRY, ENVIRONMENTAL, AND OTHER
GROUPS; AND PUBLIC-AT-LARGE................................................................................
OTHER SOURCES OF FUNDS ..........................................................................................
ASPECTS OF THE PROJECT THAT DID NOT WORK WELL ..............................................
FUTURE ACTIVITY RECOMMENDATIONS .........................................................................
LITERATURE CITED ................................................................................................................
LIST OF TABLES .......................................................................................................................
LIST OF FIGURES......................................................................................................................
LIST OF APPENDICES (SUCH AS WATERSHED RESTORATION ACTION
STRATEGIES/PLANS, DATABASES, AND TOTAL MAXIMUM DAILY
LOADS [TMDLS]) ............................................................................................
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS FINAL PROJECT FORMATS
GROUNDWATER PROJECTS 1
GROUNDWATER PROJECTS
Groundwater projects focus on protecting those groundwater resources that, if
contaminated, would pose human health, welfare, and ecological risks. A template
showing the format for groundwater project final reports is provided on page 5. The
following sections are included in a groundwater project report:
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
The executive summary provides a brief overview of the project with start and
finish dates, funding information, and a summary of accomplishments. The
summary should outline the goals that were set for the project and include a
statement of whether some or all of these goals were met. Project sponsors also
might provide information on significant accomplishments and describe how
high-priority issues were addressed and what products were produced.
1.0 I
NTRODUCTION
When developing the introduction, project sponsors are encouraged to consider
multiple audiences in addition to states and EPA. The introduction should contain
background information on the project, including the project area, HUC number, a
description of data available from historical reports, rationale for pursuing grant
funds, and the NPS problems in the project area. Much of this information can be
derived from the statement of need and project description in the original section
319 work plan.
The introduction to a groundwater project report should contain the following
information:
− A description of the aquifer with information on the use of the water,
source water protection program needs in the area, the aquifer’s
relationship to surface water, and the source of recharge water. General
information on location, land use, and pertinent aquifer geology should
also be included.
− Description of water quality problems, including identification of NPS
pollutants of concern and water quality standards that are violated or
threatened.
− Maps showing the location, size and depth of the aquifer and other
relevant features of the landscape.
− A description of how the project was consistent with the state NPS
management program and other state programs including 305(b) reports,
Unified Watershed Assessments (UWAs), Total Maximum Daily Load
(TMDL) development, 303(d) listings, and source water protection
reports.
FINAL PROJECT FORMATS SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
2GROUNDWATER PROJECTS
− A general project description (keeping in mind the following section will
explain goals and objectives).
2.0 PROJECT GOALS, OBJECTIVES, AND ACTIVITIES
It is important to describe in detail all of the goals for a section 319-funded NPS
project. In general, the goals are broad statements about project needs that are
achievable through objectives. An example of a goal statement is “to assess the
levels of nitrogen and pesticides in three priority shallow aquifers to provide
information for the Pesticides in Groundwater State Management Plan.”
A description of the objectives and tasks should immediately follow each
identified goal. Objectives should provide more detail about the accomplishments
that were identified and met for each goal. An example of an objective is “to
develop a long range plan to establish a permanent state wide monitoring network
for the purposes of monitoring contaminants in groundwater.” Each objective
should have a description of the tasks that achieved the objective. Pictures, maps,
graphs, or tables are useful to describe a task or objective. Tasks should have had
quantified and measurable output, where applicable.
2.1 P
LANNED AND ACTUAL MILESTONES, PRODUCTS, AND COMPLETION DATES
One method for presenting this information is a milestone table. Each table might
list planned and actual milestones and product completion dates. A brief
explanation should be provided when anticipated milestones and output quantities
were not met. A timeline-type figure may also be used to depict schedules and
milestones.
2.2 E
VALUATION OF GOAL ACHIEVEMENT AND RELATIONSHIP TO THE STATE
NPS MANAGEMENT PLAN
In this section, the project sponsor should provide an evaluation of how well the
goals were achieved. The report should describe how the project helped
implement the state’s NPS management program and other state program
priorities as outlined in state pesticide in groundwater plans, 305(b) reports,
303(d) lists, UWAs, and source water protection reports. Project sponsors should
describe how the project contributed to controlling NPS pollution as part of an
integrated, watershed-wide approach.
2.3 SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
Any additional information on project goals and objectives should be included in
this section. Project sponsors are encouraged to include descriptions of projects
or programs implemented that have not already been discussed in previous
sections of the final report. Pictures, maps, graphs, or tables may be used to better
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS FINAL PROJECT FORMATS
GROUNDWATER PROJECTS 3
explain the project. Graphical elements are strongly encouraged because they
help "tell the story" and increase the multi-purpose usefulness of the report.
3.0 M
ONITORING RESULTS
This section should include a brief discussion of the monitoring strategy and
sampling and analysis techniques used in the project. Descriptions of the models
used to analyze data should also be included, if applicable.
It is important to include an analysis and summary of the data collected using
tables, graphs, or charts, when possible. Examples of effective graphs, tables, and
other data presentation methods are shown in Section 3 of this notebook—Final
Project Examples.
The monitoring results should be separated into the following sections:
− Metals (3.1).
− Chemistry (3.2).
− Nutrients (3.3).
− Other monitoring (3.4).
− Evaluation of BMP effectiveness (3.5). This section should describe
whether BMPs used were effective. It should also include a discussion of
why they were effective and how effectiveness was evaluated.
− If applicable, quality assurance reporting (3.6). If there is an EPA-
approved Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) or Sampling and
Analysis Plan (SAP) for the project, describe briefly how the monitoring
was consistent with the QAPP or SAP.
4.0 PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT AND COORDINATION
In this section any public involvement and coordination activities should be
described.
4.1 STATE AGENCIES
This section identifies any cooperating state agencies and describes their role in
implementing the project.
4.2 FEDERAL AGENCIES
This section identifies any cooperating federal agencies, such as the U.S.
Geological Survey, Natural Resources Conservation Service, and Fish and
Wildlife Service and describes their role in project implementation.
FINAL PROJECT FORMATS SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
4GROUNDWATER PROJECTS
4.3 LOCAL GOVERNMENTS, INDUSTRY, ENVIRONMENTAL, AND OTHER GROUPS,
P
UBLIC AT LARGE
This section describes local involvement and support from a variety of entities
and the public.
4.4 O
THER SOURCES OF FUNDS
If the project received funding through other sources, such as non-federal match
from state and local funds, volunteer labor, and other federal funds, this section
should provide a description of those sources. A budget table may be a useful
way to present this information.
5.0 ASPECTS OF THE PROJECT THAT DID NOT WORK WELL
This section should provide an explanation of elements of the project that did not
work out as planned. For instance, this section may include a discussion of why
milestones were difficult to meet. Was the failure due to lack of good data,
inadequate funding, lack of sufficient technical resources, or "circumstances of
nature?" Was there a need for a more thorough assessment or more advanced
technology? Problems with organizational dynamics, an inability to contract
assessment work, or other confounding factors also would be discussed here.
This section can help others to avoid similar problems in the future.
6.0 F
UTURE ACTIVITY RECOMMENDATIONS
This section should be used to describe any programs, activities, and/or other
groundwater projects that are or should be planned for the area of concern based
on the results of the project. Plans for future coordination with other agencies
should be indicated here. If the project is continuing, anticipated funding sources
and continuation of the section 319 funding should also be discussed. This
section provides an excellent opportunity to informally propose projects that will
address NPS problems in the watershed or other area of concern.
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS FINAL PROJECT FORMATS
GROUNDWATER PROJECTS 5
SECTION 319 NONPOINT SOURCE POLLUTION CONTROL PROGRAM
GROUNDWATER PROJECT FINAL REPORT
(Project Title Here)
by
(Author and Project Sponsor Here)
(Date Here)
This project was conducted in cooperation with the State of _______________________ and the
United States Environmental Protection Agency, Region 8.
Grant #
FINAL PROJECT FORMATS SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
6GROUNDWATER PROJECTS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
PROJECT TITLE _________________________________
PROJECT START DATE____________ PROJECT COMPLETION DATE____________
FUNDING: TOTAL BUDGET__________________
TOTAL EPA GRANT __________________
TOTAL EXPENDITURES
OF EPA FUNDS __________________
TOTAL SECTION 319
MATCH ACCRUED __________________
BUDGET REVISIONS __________________
TOTAL EXPENDITURES __________________
SUMMARY ACCOMPLISHMENTS
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS FINAL PROJECT FORMATS
GROUNDWATER PROJECTS 7
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY.................................................................................................................
INTRODUCTION...............................................................................................................................
PROJECT GOALS, OBJECTIVES, AND ACTIVITIES...................................................................
PLANNED AND ACTUAL MILESTONES, PRODUCTS,
ANDCOMPLETION DATES......................................................................................................
EVALUATION OF GOAL ACHIEVEMENT ............................................................................
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION ..........................................................................................
MONITORING RESULTS.................................................................................................................
METALS......................................................................................................................................
CHEMISTRY...............................................................................................................................
NUTRIENTS ...............................................................................................................................
OTHER MONITORING..............................................................................................................
EVALUATION OF DEMONSTRATION EFFECTIVENESS...................................................
QUALITY ASSURANCE REPORTING ....................................................................................
PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT AND COORDINATION........................................................................
STATE AGENCIES.....................................................................................................................
FEDERAL AGENCIES ...............................................................................................................
LOCAL GOVERNMENTS; INDUSTRY, ENVIRONMENTAL,
AND OTHER GROUPS; AND PUBLIC-AT-LARGE ...............................................................
OTHER SOURCES OF FUNDS .................................................................................................
ASPECTS OF THE PROJECT THAT DID NOT WORK WELL .....................................................
FUTURE ACTIVITY RECOMMENDATIONS ................................................................................
LITERATURE CITED........................................................................................................................
LIST OF TABLES ..............................................................................................................................
LIST OF FIGURES.............................................................................................................................
LIST OF APPENDICES (SUCH AS PROJECT DATA BASES, SIGN-UP SHEETS,
TRAINING WORKBOOKS, GUIDANCE DOCUMENTS, PROPOSED
ORDINANCES, AND BROCHURES) .......................................................................................
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS FINAL PROJECT FORMATS
INFORMATION/EDUCATION/TRAINING/DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS 1
INFORMATION/EDUCATION/TRAINING/DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS
Information/education/training/demonstration projects (hereafter information and
education projects (I&E)) generally involve one of two classifications of activities:
− Development and distribution of information, such as publications, videos,
establishment of Internet web sites, or the development and presentation of
various training activities.
− Development and demonstration of new BMPs or demonstration of approved
BMPs.
A template showing the format for I&E projects is provided on page 6. The following
sections are included in an information and education project final report.
E
XECUTIVE SUMMARY
The executive summary provides a brief overview of the project with start and
finish dates, funding information, and a summary of accomplishments. The
summary should outline the goals that were set for the project and include a
statement of whether some or all of these goals were met. Project sponsors also
might provide information on significant accomplishments and describe how
high-priority issues were addressed and what products were produced, new and
effective best management practices (BMPs) used, and how the project helped
implement the state’s NPS management program.
1.0 INTRODUCTION
When developing the introduction, project sponsors are encouraged to consider
multiple audiences in addition to states and EPA. The introduction should contain
background information on the project, including the project area, the HUC
number if appropriate, a description of data available from historical reports,
rationale for pursuing grant funds, and the NPS problems in the project area.
Much of this information can be derived from the statement of need and project
description in the original section 319 work plan.
More specifically, the introduction to a final report should contain the following
information:
− Where applicable, identification of the waterbody or watershed with HUC
code if appropriate, including details on the need for additional or new
education/information dissemination, training, or demonstration projects.
− Description of water quality problems, including identification of NPS
pollutants of concern and water quality standards that are violated or
threatened.
− Description of the new BMPs used in the project or a discussion of the
need to re-evaluate BMPs.
FINAL PROJECT FORMATS SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
2INFORMATION/EDUCATION/TRAINING/DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS
− Discussion of the need for new educational materials and/or training.
− A description of the criteria that led to the selection of the audience
intended for this project with an explanation of how the audience was
targeted.
− A description of how the project was consistent with the state NPS
management program and other state programs, where applicable,
including 305(b) reports, Unified Watershed Assessments (UWAs), Total
Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) development, 303(d) listings and source
water protection reports.
− A general project description (keeping in mind the following section will
explain the goals and objectives).
− Maps, where applicable, showing the location and size of the waterbodies
or watersheds that were targeted for education activities or locations of
demonstration projects.
2.0 PROJECT GOALS, OBJECTIVES, AND ACTIVITIES
It is important to describe the goals for a section 319-funded project. In general,
the goals are broad statements about project needs that are achievable through
objectives. An example of a goal statement is:
The goal of this project is to implement a comprehensive media
campaign and supporting activities that will increase the awareness
of the general public in Colorado about the causes and solutions to
urban polluted runoff. This project will partially achieve all of the
goals set forth in the Draft White Paper of the Information/
Education subcommittee of the Nonpoint Task Force. It will fully
achieve Goal Three of that document, which is to “proactively
engage in public information relating to NPS issues.” This project
also will accomplish the first goal of the Urban/Construction
Subcommittee—to educate the general public in urban areas about
nonpoint source pollution.
This campaign will include basic information about urban runoff
covering such topics as what behaviors lead to polluted runoff and
how polluted runoff affects Colorado’s water resources. Targeted
audiences will be informed about the role of storm sewers in
polluted runoff; what they are, what they do, and where they lead.
A small number of easily understood, highly focused messages
will provide non-technical, easily implemented solutions to the
household-generated urban runoff problem. Consistency of the
message will be maintained through the use of recognizable logos
and graphics throughout the campaign. This project will provide
baseline data about the public’s awareness of household polluted
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS FINAL PROJECT FORMATS
INFORMATION/EDUCATION/TRAINING/DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS 3
runoff through the survey and will establish an ongoing, easily
accessible clearinghouse of nonpoint source information.
A description of the objectives and tasks should immediately follow each
identified goal. Objectives should provide more detail about the accomplishments
that were identified and met for each goal. An example of an objective is
“develop an assessment tool to determine current levels of awareness about urban
polluted runoff.” Each objective should have a description of the tasks that
achieved the objective, as well as quantifiable goals, such as “train 100 farmers in
no-till” or print and distribute 10,000 brochures.” Pictures, maps, graphs, or
tables are useful to describe a task or objective.
2.1 P
LANNED AND ACTUAL MILESTONES, PRODUCTS, AND COMPLETION DATES
One method for presenting this information is a milestone table. Each table
should list planned and actual milestones and product quantity and completion
dates. A brief explanation should be provided when anticipated milestones were
not met. A timeline-type figure may also be used to depict schedules and
milestones.
2.2 EVALUATION OF GOAL ACHIEVEMENT AND RELATIONSHIP TO THE STATE
NPS MANAGEMENT PLAN
In this section, the project sponsor should provide an evaluation of how well the
goals were achieved. The report should describe how the project helped
implement the state’s NPS management program and other state program
priorities as outlined in 305(b) reports, 303(d) lists, UWAs, and source water
protection reports. Project sponsors should describe how the project contributed
to controlling NPS pollution as part of an integrated, watershed-wide approach.
2.3 SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
Any additional information the sponsor may want to add relating to achieving
project goals should be included in this section Project sponsors are encouraged
to include BMP lists and descriptions of projects or programs implemented for
each task. Pictures, maps, graphs, tables, or diagrams may be used to better
explain these projects and programs. Graphical elements are strongly encouraged
because they help "tell the story" and increase the multi-purpose usefulness of the
report.
3.0 LONG TERM RESULTS IN TERMS OF BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION, STREAM/LAKE
QUALITY, GROUND WATER, AND/OR WATERSHED PROTECTION CHANGES
This section should include a brief discussion of how the information, education,
training, or demonstration project has contributed to the improvement of water
quality. Charts, graphs, tables, or diagrams that show trends may be included.
FINAL PROJECT FORMATS SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
4INFORMATION/EDUCATION/TRAINING/DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS
When appropriate, describe how the changes in behavior were evaluated. Include
the different types of evaluation tools used, such as recording requests for NPS
newspapers and videos, exit and follow-up surveys for training courses, and
readers surveys.
4.0 B
EST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES (BMPS) DEVELOPED AND/OR REVISED (FOR
DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS)
In this section a brief description of BMPs implemented for each project should
be provided. More detail or descriptions can be provided in appendices. Pictures,
maps, graphs, or tables may be used to further describe the location,
configuration, and performance of each practice.
5.0 M
ONITORING RESULTS FOR DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS
This section should include a brief discussion of the monitoring and/or evaluation
strategy used in the information and education, training, or demonstration project.
Descriptions of any models used to analyze data should also be included, if
applicable. For demonstration projects, monitoring should be considered for
determining project effectiveness directly on water quality or by surrogate
methods. For I&E projects, discuss the results from the evaluations tools used,
such as recording requests for NPS newspapers and videos, exit and follow-up
surveys for training courses, and readers surveys.
It is important to include an analysis and summary of data collected using tables,
graphs, or charts that may show trends in water quality, if applicable. Also, this
section should describe any surrogate measures (environmental indicators) used to
measure progress in controlling NPS pollution. Examples of effective graphs,
tables, and other data presentation methods are shown in Section 3 of this
notebook—Final Project Examples.
Monitoring results for a demonstration project, where applicable, should be
separated into the following categories:
− BMP effectiveness evaluations (5.1).
− Surface water improvements (5.2).
− Ground water improvements (5.3).
− Results of BMP operation and maintenance reviews (5.4).
− Quality assurance reporting (5.5), if applicable. If there is an EPA-
approved Quality Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) or Sampling and
Analysis Plan (SAP) for the project, describe briefly how the monitoring
was consistent with the QAPP or SAP.
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS FINAL PROJECT FORMATS
INFORMATION/EDUCATION/TRAINING/DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS 5
6.0 PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT AND COORDINATION
In this section, describe public involvement and coordination activities for the
project.
6.1 STATE AGENCIES
Identify cooperating state agencies and describes their role in implementing the
project.
6.2 F
EDERAL AGENCIES
Identify any cooperating federal agencies, such as the U.S. Geological Survey,
Natural Resources Conservation Service, and Fish and Wildlife Service and
describe their role in project implementation.
6.3 LOCAL GOVERNMENTS, INDUSTRY, ENVIRONMENTAL, AND OTHER GROUPS,
PUBLIC AT LARGE
Describe local involvement and support from a variety of entities and the public.
6.4 OTHER SOURCES OF FUNDS
If the project received funding through other sources, such as a non-federal match
of state and local funds, volunteer labor, and other federal funds, this section
should provide a description of those sources. A budget table may be a useful
way to present this information.
7.0 ASPECTS OF THE PROJECT THAT DID NOT WORK WELL
This section should provide an explanation of elements of the project that did not
work out as planned. For instance, this section may include a discussion of why
milestones were difficult to meet. Was the failure due to lack of good data,
inadequate funding, lack of sufficient technical resources, or "circumstances of
nature?" Was there a need for a more thorough assessment or more advanced
technology? Did the training or education activities result in any changes in
methods on the part of the trainee? Problems with organizational dynamics, an
inability to contract work, or other confounding factors also would be discussed
here. This section can help others to avoid similar problems in the future.
8.0 F
UTURE ACTIVITY RECOMMENDATIONS
This section should be used to describe any programs, activities, and/or
assessments that are or should be planned for the area of concern based on the
results of the project. Plans for future coordination with other agencies should be
indicated here. If the project is continuing, anticipated funding sources and
continuation of the section 319 funding should also be discussed. This section
FINAL PROJECT FORMATS SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
6INFORMATION/EDUCATION/TRAINING/DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS
provides an excellent opportunity to informally propose new projects that will
continue to address NPS problems in the watershed or other area of concern.
8.1 INFORMATION AND EDUCATION OUTPUTS
Description of outputs (videos, pamphlets, training manuals, driving guides, etc.)
that are available for use by other projects.
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS FINAL PROJECT FORMATS
INFORMATION/EDUCATION/TRAINING/DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS 7
SECTION 319 NONPOINT SOURCE POLLUTION CONTROL PROGRAM
INFORMATION/EDUCATION/TRAINING/DEMONSTRATION PROJECT
FINAL REPORT
(Project Title Here)
by
(Author and Project Sponsor Here)
(Date Here)
This project was conducted in cooperation with the State of _______________ and the United
States Environmental Protection Agency, Region 8.
Grant #
FINAL PROJECT FORMATS SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
8INFORMATION/EDUCATION/TRAINING/DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
PROJECT TITLE _________________________________
PROJECT START DATE___________ PROJECT COMPLETION DATE ___________
FUNDING: TOTAL BUDGET __________________
TOTAL EPA GRANT __________________
TOTAL EXPENDITURES
OF EPA FUNDS __________________
TOTAL SECTION 319
MATCH ACCRUED __________________
BUDGET REVISIONS __________________
TOTAL EXPENDITURES __________________
SUMMARY ACCOMPLISHMENTS
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS FINAL PROJECT FORMATS
INFORMATION/EDUCATION/TRAINING/DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS 9
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY..........................................................................................................
INTRODUCTION........................................................................................................................
PROJECT GOALS, OBJECTIVES, AND ACTIVITIES............................................................
PLANNED AND ACTUAL MILESTONES, PRODUCTS, AND COMPLETION
DATES..................................................................................................................................
EVALUATION OF GOAL ACHIEVEMENT.....................................................................
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION...................................................................................
LONG TERM RESULTS IN TERMS OF BEHAVIOR MODIFICATION,
STREAM/LAKE QUALITY, GROUND WATER, AND/OR WATERSHED
PROTECTION CHANGES ..................................................................................................
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES (BMPS) DEVELOPED AND/OR REVISED (FOR
DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS ........................................................................................
MONITORING RESULTS FOR DEMONSTRATION PROJECTS..........................................
BMP EFFECTIVENESS EVALUATIONS .........................................................................
SURFACE WATER IMPROVEMENTS .............................................................................
GROUNDWATER IMPROVEMENTS ...............................................................................
RESULTS OF BMP OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE REVIEWS ............................
QUALITY ASSURANCE REPORTING.............................................................................
PUBLIC INVOLVEMENT AND COORDINATION.................................................................
STATE AGENCIES .............................................................................................................
FEDERAL AGENCIES........................................................................................................
LOCAL GOVERNMENTS; INDUSTRY, ENVIRONMENTAL, AND OTHER
GROUPS; AND PUBLIC-AT-LARGE................................................................................
OTHER SOURCES OF FUNDS ..........................................................................................
ASPECTS OF THE PROJECT THAT DID NOT WORK WELL ..............................................
FUTURE ACTIVITY RECOMMENDATIONS .........................................................................
INFORMATION AND EDUCATION OUTPUTS..............................................................
LIST OF APPENDICES (SUCH AS PARTICIPANT SIGN-UP LIST(S) AND WRITTEN
OUTPUTS SUCH AS BROCHURES, NEWSLETTERS, CURRICULUMS,
MONITORING OF PROJECT EFFECTIVENSS, CLASS NOTEBOOKS, TOUR
AGENDAS, AND DATA REPORTS) .................................................................................
NOTE: NON-WRITTEN PRODUCTS SUCH AS VIDEOS SHOULD ALSO BE PROVIDED
TO THE STATE AND EPA.
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS FINAL PROJECT FORMATS
WATERSHED PROJECTS 1
WATERSHED PROJECTS
Watershed projects address major sources of nonpoint source pollution affecting water
quality in the watershed. Typically the primary project objective of a watershed project
is to reduce the pollutant load entering either surface or ground water from nonpoint
sources such that beneficial uses are restored or protected. Watershed projects may focus
on developing and implementing TMDLs. A template showing the format for watershed
final projects is provided on page 6. The following sections are included in a watershed
project report:
E
XECUTIVE SUMMARY
The executive summary provides a brief overview of the project with start and
finish dates, funding information, and a summary of accomplishments. The
summary should outline the goals that were set for the project and include a
statement of whether some or all of these goals were met. Project sponsors also
might provide information on significant accomplishments and describe how
high-priority issues were addressed and what products were produced, new and
effective best management practices (BMPs) used, and how the project helped
implement state NPS management programs or TMDLs.
1.0 INTRODUCTION
When developing the introduction, project sponsors are encouraged to consider
multiple audiences in addition to states and EPA. The introduction should contain
background information on the project, any applicable TMDLs, including the
project area, HUC number(s), a description of data available from historical
reports, rationale for pursuing grant funds, and the NPS problems in the project
area.
More specifically, the introduction to a final report should contain the following
information:
− Identification of the waterbody or watershed with HUC code if available,
including information on location, land use, land ownership, historical
data, and the beneficial uses of the waterbody.
− Description of water quality problems, including identification of NPS
pollutants of concern and water quality standards that are violated or
threatened.
− Description of the TMDL(s) implemented.
− Description of how the project was consistent with the state NPS
management program and other state programs including 305(b) reports,
Unified Watershed Assessments (UWAs), Total Maximum Daily Load
(TMDL) development, or implementation, 303(d) listings, and source
water protection reports.
FINAL PROJECT FORMATS SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
2WATERSHED PROJECTS
− Maps showing the location and size of the waterbody or watershed with
project areas and/or BMP locations indicated.
− A general project description (keeping in mind the following section will
explain the goals and objectives).
2.0 P
ROJECT GOALS, OBJECTIVES, AND ACTIVITIES
It is important to describe goals for the project. In general, the goals are broad
statements about project needs that are achievable through objectives. Examples
of goal statements are “to restore the recreational health of the Green River by
decreasing nutrient loads by x% that contribute to overenrichment” and “to
identify and implement appropriate grazing practices to reduce the amount of
sediment and nutrients entering the Green River by x%.”
A description of the objectives and tasks should immediately follow each
identified goal. Objectives should provide more detail about the accomplishments
that were identified and met for each goal. Examples of objectives are “achieve a
biomass concentration of 150 gm/m
2
as a summertime instantaneous reading and
100 gm/m
2
as a summertime 60-day average reading in the selected monitoring
locations” or “sponsor a demonstration project of seasonal management of
livestock on the Clear Fork of the Green River.” Each objective should have a
description of the tasks that achieved the objective. Pictures, maps, graphs, or
tables are useful to describe a task or objective. Task outputs should be
measurable and quantifiable.
2.1 P
LANNED AND ACTUAL MILESTONES, PRODUCTS, AND COMPLETION DATES
One method for presenting this information is a milestone table. Each table might
list planned and actual milestones and product completion dates and quantities (#
BMPs etc.) A brief explanation should be provided when anticipated milestones
were not met. A timeline-type figure may also be used to depict schedules and
milestones.
2.2 EVALUATION OF GOAL ACHIEVEMENT AND RELATIONSHIP TO THE STATE
NPS MANAGEMENT PLAN
In this section, the project sponsor should provide an evaluation of how well the
goals were achieved. The report should describe how the project helped
implement the state’s NPS management program, and other state program
priorities as outlined in 305(b) reports, 303(d) lists, and UWAs. Project sponsors
should describe how the project contributed to controlling NPS pollution as part
of an integrated, watershed-wide approach.
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS FINAL PROJECT FORMATS
WATERSHED PROJECTS 3
2.3 SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION
Any additional information the sponsor may want to add relating to achieving
project goals should be included in this section. Project sponsors are encouraged
to include BMP lists and descriptions of projects or programs implemented not
already discussed in previous sections of the final project report. Pictures, maps,
graphs, or tables may be used to better explain these projects and programs.
Graphical elements are strongly encouraged because they help “tell the story” and
increase the multi-purpose usefulness of the report.
3.0 BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES DEVELOPED AND/OR REVISED
Describe BMPs (plus quantities) implemented, such as the number of acres
converted to no-till, or the number of tons per year of sediment reduced. More
detail or descriptions can be provided in appendices. Pictures, maps, graphs, or
tables can be used to further describe the location, configuration, and
performance of each practice.
4.0 MONITORING RESULTS
This section should include a brief discussion of the monitoring strategy,
sampling, and analysis techniques used in the watershed project. Descriptions of
the models used to analyze data should also be included, if applicable.
A crucial part of a watershed final report is an analysis and summary of the data
collected using tables, graphs, or charts that may show trends in water quality.
The section should also describe any surrogate measures (i.e. environmental
indicators) that were used to measure existing conditions and progress in
controlling NPS pollution. Examples of effective graphs, tables, and other data
presentation methods are shown in Section 3 of this notebook—Final Project
Examples.
The monitoring results should be separated into the following categories:
− TMDL implementation effectiveness (4.1).
− BMP effectiveness evaluations (4.2).
− Surface water improvements, including separate sections for chemical,
biological, and physical/habitat (4.3).
− Groundwater improvements, including separate sections on metals,
chemistry, nutrients, and sediment (4.4), if applicable.
− Other monitoring (4.5).
− Quality assurance reporting (4.6). If there is an EPA-approved Quality
Assurance Project Plan (QAPP) or Sampling and Analysis Plan (SAP) for
the project, describe briefly how the monitoring was consistent with the
QAPP or SAP.
FINAL PROJECT FORMATS SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
4WATERSHED PROJECTS
− Results of BMP operation and maintenance (O&M) reviews (4.7). This
section should describe how project sponsors assured proper O&M of the
BMPs. The discussion should include the frequency of on-site O&M
evaluations, identification of the organization(s) who did the evaluations,
and the frequency of state reviews of O&M procedures. If problems with
O&M procedures occurred, follow-up procedures should be described.
Also, if landowners abandoned any section 319-funded BMPs, a
description of actions taken by the project sponsor should be included.
5.0 C
OORDINATION EFFORTS
This section describes coordination efforts with different agencies, entities, and
the public. It includes the following sections:
5.1 C
OORDINATION FROM OTHER STATE AGENCIES
This section identifies any cooperating state agencies and describes their role in
implementing the project.
5.2 O
THER STATE ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAM COORDINATION
This section identifies any cooperating state environmental programs and
describes their role in implementing the project.
5.3 FEDERAL COORDINATION
This section identifies any cooperating federal agencies, such as the U.S.
Geological Survey, Natural Resources Conservation Service, and Fish and
Wildlife Service and describes their role in project implementation.
5.4 USDA PROGRAMS
This section identifies cooperation with U.S. Department of Agriculture programs
such as the Environmental Quality Incentives Program (EQIP), Hydrologic Unit
Funding, Buffer Initiative, or Conservation Reserve Program. The section should
include a description of each program’s role in project implementation.
5.5 ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF AGENCY COORDINATION MEETINGS
This section should provide a summary of agency coordination meetings,
participants lists and meeting outcome may be included. Details or transcripts
from the meetings may be attached as an appendix in the final report.
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS FINAL PROJECT FORMATS
WATERSHED PROJECTS 5
5.6 RESOURCES/COORDINATION FROM FEDERAL LAND MANAGEMENT AGENCIES
This section identifies coordination with federal land management agencies, if
applicable. Included would be each agency’s role in project implementation, and
information on resources provided by the agencies.
5.7 OTHER SOURCES OF FUNDS
If the project received funding through other sources such as non-federal match
from state and local funds, volunteer labor, and other federal funds, this section
should provide a description of those sources. A budget table may be a useful to
present this information.
6.0 SUMMARY OF PUBLIC PARTICIPATION
This section describes public participation and other local support for project
implementation.
7.0 A
SPECTS OF THE PROJECT THAT DID NOT WORK WELL
This section should provide an explanation of elements of the project that did not
work out as planned. For instance, this section may include a discussion of why
milestones were difficult to meet. Was the failure due to lack of good data,
inadequate funding, lack of sufficient technical resources, or “circumstances of
nature?” Was there a need for a more thorough assessment and targeting, or more
advanced technology? This section can help others to avoid similar problems in
the future.
8.0 FUTURE ACTIVITY RECOMMENDATIONS
This section should be used to describe any programs, activities, and/or
assessments that are or should be planned for the area of concern based on the
results of the project. Plans for future coordination with other agencies should be
indicated. If the project is continuing anticipated funding sources and
continuation of the section 319 funding should also be discussed. This section
provides an excellent opportunity to informally propose new projects that will
continue to address NPS problems in the watershed or other area of concern.
FINAL PROJECT FORMATS SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
6WATERSHED PROJECTS
SECTION 319 NONPOINT SOURCE POLLUTION CONTROL PROGRAM
WATERSHED PROJECT FINAL REPORT
(Project Title Here)
by
(Author and Project Sponsor Here)
(Date Here)
This project was conducted in cooperation with the State of _________________ and the United States
Environmental Protection Agency, Region 8.
Grant #
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS FINAL PROJECT FORMATS
WATERSHED PROJECTS 7
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY
PROJECT TITLE _________________________________
PROJECT START DATE___________ PROJECT COMPLETION DATE___________
FUNDING: TOTAL BUDGET _________________
TOTAL EPA GRANT _________________
TOTAL EXPENDITURES
OF EPA FUNDS _________________
TOTAL SECTION 319
MATCH ACCRUED _________________
BUDGET REVISIONS _________________
TOTAL EXPENDITURES _________________
SUMMARY ACCOMPLISHMENTS
FINAL PROJECT FORMATS SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
8WATERSHED PROJECTS
TABLE OF CONTENTS
PAGE
EXECUTIVE SUMMARY ........................................................................................................................
INTRODUCTION......................................................................................................................................
PROJECT GOALS, OBJECTIVES, AND ACTIVITIES ..........................................................................
PLANNED AND ACTUAL MILESTONES, PRODUCTS AND COMPLETION DATES .............
EVALUATION OF GOAL ACHIEVEMENT AND RELATIONSHIP TO THE STATE
NPS MANAGEMENT PLAN ............................................................................................................
SUPPLEMENTAL INFORMATION .................................................................................................
BEST MANAGEMENT PRACTICES DEVELOPED AND/OR REVISED............................................
MONITORING RESULTS ........................................................................................................................
BMP EFFECTIVENESS EVALUATIONS........................................................................................
SURFACE WATER IMPROVEMENTS ...........................................................................................
CHEMICAL.................................................................................................................................
BIOLOGICAL .............................................................................................................................
PHYSICAL/HABITAT................................................................................................................
GROUND WATER IMPROVEMENTS ............................................................................................
METALS......................................................................................................................................
CHEMISTRY...............................................................................................................................
NUTRIENTS ...............................................................................................................................
OTHER MONITORING.....................................................................................................................
QUALITY ASSURANCE REPORTING ...........................................................................................
RESULTS OF BMP OPERATION AND MAINTENANCE REVIEWS ..........................................
COORDINATION EFFORTS ...................................................................................................................
COORDINATION FROM OTHER STATE AGENCIES..................................................................
OTHER STATE ENVIRONMENTAL PROGRAM COORDINATION...........................................
FEDERAL COORDINATION ...........................................................................................................
USDA PROGRAMS (E.G. ENVIRONMENTAL QUALITY INCENTIVES
PROGRAM (EQIP), HYDROLOGIC UNIT FUNDING, BUFFER INITIATIVE,
CONSERVATION RESERVE PROGRAM ......................................................................................
ACCOMPLISHMENTS OF AGENCY COORDINATION MEETINGS..........................................
RESOURCES/COORDINATION FROM FEDERAL LAND MANAGEMENT AGENCIES.........
OTHER SOURCES OF FUNDS.........................................................................................................
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS FINAL PROJECT FORMATS
WATERSHED PROJECTS 9
TABLE OF CONTENTS (CONTINUED)
PAGE
SUMMARY OF PUBLIC PARTICIPATION ...........................................................................................
ASPECTS OF THE PROJECT THAT DID NOT WORK WELL ............................................................
FUTURE ACTIVITY RECOMMENDATIONS .......................................................................................
LITERATURE CITED
LIST OF TABLES .....................................................................................................................................
LIST OF FIGURES....................................................................................................................................
LIST OF APPENDICES, IF NOT PREVIOUSLY PROVIDED TO EPA (INCLUDING
MONITORING DATA BASE, AND WRITTEN OUTPUTS SUCH AS BROCHURES,
NEWSLETTERS, PARTICIPANT SURVEYS, AND MONITORING REPORTS).........................
FUTURE DIRECTIONS
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS FUTURE DIRECTIONS
APRIL 6, 2000 1
FUTURE DIRECTIONS
The section 319 Final Project Report can be more than just a document that
fulfills the requirement of a grant. The report can and should be prepared for a
wider audience than just state and EPA staff. The final report is an excellent
means to explain the technical concepts of the 319 project to both technical and
non-technical audiences.
The report should clearly identify and describe nonpoint source issues in the
watershed and outline the 319 project’s successes in addressing these issues. If
data and concepts are presented effectively, the report can be used to advertise
this and other related projects and can garner support from stakeholders and the
public at large. Section 3 of this notebook—Final Project Examples—provides
examples of effective and informative text and graphics that can be used to
improve the presentation and readability of the final report.
During preparation of the report, project sponsors brainstorm ways in which the
report can be extended to a more multipurpose document. The report can be
made available on the World Wide Web to provide stakeholders with information
about the project, its purpose, and its successes. Also, a web site can solicit
suggestions and comments from stakeholders and provide information about ways
that they can become more involved in the project or other watershed initiatives.
Other means of communicating information about the project include newsletters,
brochures, fact sheets, or other outreach materials that can be distributed to
watershed and environmental groups, the public, government agencies, or other
interested parties. These materials can be rich with graphics, highlighting the
successes and future directions of the 319 project. Elements from the final report
can be used to develop these materials, especially if the report contains pictures
and graphs showing clear trends in water quality.
Finally, the report may be used to support proposals for new grants to continue
addressing nonpoint source issues in the area of concern. A good final report will
convey to the reader that the project was successful and worthwhile and that
project sponsors are capable of using grant funds to bring about improvements in
water quality.
Project sponsors may consider all of the ways that the final report can be used to
disseminate information about the project. It is important that project sponsors
plan data collection, data analysis, and display needs from the start of the project
to facilitate report preparation and smooth the transition between the final report
and a web site, outreach materials, or grant proposals.
PRESENTATION SLIDES
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS PRESENTATION SLIDES
PRESENTED BY ROBERT EDGERTON, TETRA TECH, INC. 1
&:$6HFWLRQ
K)LQDO
5HSRUWLQJ
Essential Elements of a
Successful NPS Project Report
Robert Edgerton
Tetra Tech, Inc.
NPS and Section 319(h)
✦ Section 319 addresses NPS by requiring all
States to report to EPA all major sources of
NPS
✦ States must develop management programs
with identified BMPs suitable for reducing
NPS
✦ Section 319(h) grants are awarded to States
with approved NPS programs
PRESENTATION SLIDES SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
2PRESENTED BY ROBERT EDGERTON, TETRA TECH, INC.
✦ Emphasis also placed on:
– Innovative BMPs
– Projects that control interstate nonpoint sources
– Projects concerned with groundwater protection
Why a Final Project Report?
✦ All Section 319(h) grants are subject to the
requirements under 40 CFR Part 31 and 35,
Subpart A
✦ Creating a legacy – documentation and proof of
NPS mitigation, and watershed restoration and
conservation activities
✦ A living document – creation of a database that
can be expanded upon by future projects and
project sponsors
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS PRESENTATION SLIDES
PRESENTED BY ROBERT EDGERTON, TETRA TECH, INC. 3
Benefits of Final Project
Reporting
✦ Section 319(h) final project reports can go beyond
fulfilling grant requirements:
– Cost sharing amongst agencies/partnerships
– Avoid duplication of work
– Provide tangible evidence that grant monies were spent
effectively
– Garner support for locally led watershed efforts
– Results (positive and negative) aid other current
projects as well as future efforts
– Identify other water quality issues that should be
addressed in the watershed
– Outreach material that disseminates information to
the public
Final Report Outline
✦ Executive Summary
✦ Introduction
✦ Project Goals, Objectives, and Management
Strategies
✦ Best Management Practices
✦ Monitoring Plan and Results
✦ Coordination Efforts
✦ Public Participation
✦ Lessons learned
✦ Future Activity Recommendations
PRESENTATION SLIDES SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
4PRESENTED BY ROBERT EDGERTON, TETRA TECH, INC.
Executive Summary
✦ Brief overview, emphasizing:
– Goals and Objectives
– Location, size, and timeframe
– Start and completion dates
– Funding information
– Summary of accomplishments
– Use of new/innovative BMPs
– Relevance of project to State NPS program
– Consistency with other NPS-related programs:
305(b) reports, 303(d) listings, Unified Watershed
Assessments, and TMDL development
Introduction
✦ All pertinent background information on project,
including:
– Identifying the spatial/temporal scale
– Description of available data (historical and
current)
– Description of water quality problems
– Relevance of project to State NPS program
– Assessment/Watershed Projects:
◆ general project description, with introduction to
assessment
◆ data collection techniques
◆ monitoring schedule
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS PRESENTATION SLIDES
PRESENTED BY ROBERT EDGERTON, TETRA TECH, INC. 5
Watershed Delineation Using
USGS Hydrologic Unit Codes
07
05
08
09
06
06
Subbasin 17 09 00 01
“Middle Fork Willamette”
(2, 150)
River Basin 17 09 00
“Willamette River”
(352)
Region 17
“Pacific Northwest”
(21)
17
Subregion 17 09
“Willamette Subregion”
(222)
PRESENTATION SLIDES SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
6PRESENTED BY ROBERT EDGERTON, TETRA TECH, INC.
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS PRESENTATION SLIDES
PRESENTED BY ROBERT EDGERTON, TETRA TECH, INC. 7
Project Background Data
✦ Site location and description
– Location
– Size
– Ownership and land use
– Setting (rural/urban)
✦ Site History
– Type of site (mine, agriculture, silviculture, hydrologic
modification)
– Concise history of contamination
– Past and on-going investigations/restoration
– Current stage of site investigation/restoration
✦ Physical setting
– Geology, hydrogeology, morphology (if applicable)
– Precipitation, soils
– Topography and drainage patterns
✦ Existing data
– Summary of significant results from past
investigations/restoration
– Usability/quality of existing data
– Identification of data gaps
– Extent and level of pollutants/pollution
Focus on site information/data that is relevant
to the proposed sampling design…
PRESENTATION SLIDES SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
8PRESENTED BY ROBERT EDGERTON, TETRA TECH, INC.
Goals, Objectives, and Strategies
✦ Goals = broad statements about project needs that
are achievable through project objectives.
“to mitigate the effects of agricultural runoff that may
adversely impact water quality…”
✦ Objectives = provide a roadmap for obtaining the
project goals.
“reduce wind and water erosion in the watershed by
implementing approved agricultural-based BMPs”
✦ Strategies = specific management techniques used
to accomplish the objective.
– Tables listing BMPs, tracking numbers, implementation
schedule, cost and cost-share ratios
– TMDL implementation
Goals, Objectives, and Strategies
✦ Planned and Actual Milestones
– Table with anticipated milestones, and achieved or
historic milestones with completion dates (schedule)
✦ Relevance of project to State NPS program
– How does each goal/associated objective(s) relate or
contribute to the control of NPS pollution
✦ Supplemental information
– Maps, tables, charts, graphs, brochures
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS PRESENTATION SLIDES
PRESENTED BY ROBERT EDGERTON, TETRA TECH, INC. 9
✦ Planned grazing systems (entire
project area)
✦ Controlled grazing practices (60%
of project area)
✦ Riparian vegetation establishment
(10 pre-selected sites)
✦ Stockwater ponds (10 pre-selected
sites)
Implement BMPs determined to be
the most effective at reducing
sediment loading given land use
activities, and biological, physical,
and chemical attributes of the project
area
✦ Hold public meeting to determine
interest towards project
✦ Research opportunities to partner
with other outreach organizations
(Cop. Ex. Agents, NRCS, EPA)
Determine incentives, training
opportunities, and educational
materials needed to obtain landowner
acceptance
StrategiesObjectives
Goal: to improve erosion control measures and reduce sediment
loading in the project area*
*Matrix adapted from South Dakota Bad River Phase II Water Quality Report, June 1996
Project Methodology
✦ Best Management Practices
– Detailed description either in text or as an appendix.
Include NRCS-BMP code and discuss any deviation
from standardized implementation.
✦ Other conservation/management measures
– Resource management plans
– Point source permit controls
✦ Detailed budget of how 319(h) dollars were spent
PRESENTATION SLIDES SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
10 PRESENTED BY ROBERT EDGERTON, TETRA TECH, INC.
NRCS Approved
Agricultural-based BMPs*
$3.00/Acre$5.00/Acre1Deferred grazing352
NCNC--Planned grazing556
$6.00/Acre$10.00/Acre1Residue management;
No till and Strip till
329A
$3.00/Acre$5.00/Acre5Herbaceous wind
barrier
ND589
$12.00/Acre$20.00/Acre5Field border386
Cost-ShareFlat RateLife
Span
(Years)
BMPNRCS
Code
*Certain long-term restrictions may apply to BMPs implemented with Section 319(h)
dollars.
†Table adapted from North Dakota Nonpoint Source Pollution Program, July 1999
Monitoring Results and Data Analysis
✦ Main body of report – should include description
of monitoring strategy, sampling and analysis
techniques, models used, and conclusions
✦ Emphasis on presenting results/findings that
indicate trends, where appropriate, with data
✦ Describe surrogate measures in subcategories:
– Water quality analysis (chemical, biological, physical
elements)
– Photo points for before/after comparison
– Ground water modeling
Convey the successful elements of the project in the final report!
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS PRESENTATION SLIDES
PRESENTED BY ROBERT EDGERTON, TETRA TECH, INC. 11
Monitoring Results Subcategories
✦ BMP effectiveness evaluation
✦ Improvements to surface water quality
✦ Ground water improvement
✦ Quality assurance reporting
➥ Based on EPA-approved Quality Assurance Project
Plan applicability
✦ Results of BMP operation & maintenance
➥ How did sponsors meet the O&M requirements of
319-funded BMPs?
➥ Show frequency of on-site O&M evaluations,
personnel involved, and frequency of State reviews
Measurable Attributes for
Surface Waters/Stream Corridors
✦ Hydrology
– Total (annual) discharge
– Seasonal (peak) discharge
– Peak flows
– Minimum flows
– Annual flow durations
– Rainfall records
✦ Erosion and Sediment Yield
– Watershed cover and soil health
– Dominant erosion processes
– Rates of surface erosion and mass wasting
– Sediment delivery ratios
– Channel erosion processes and rates
– Sediment transport functions
PRESENTATION SLIDES SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
12 PRESENTED BY ROBERT EDGERTON, TETRA TECH, INC.
✦ Floodplain/Riparian Vegetation
– Community type
– Type distribution
– Surface cover
– Canopy
– Community dynamics and succession
– Recruitment and reproduction
– Connectivity
✦ Aquatic and Riparian Species and Critical Habitats
– Aquatic species of concern and associated habitats
– Riparian species of concern and associated habitats
– Native vs. introduced species
– Benthic, macroinvertebrate, or vertebrate indicator species
✦ Corridor Dimension
– Plan view maps
– Topographic maps
– Width
– Linearity
✦ Water Quality
– Color
– Temperature, dissolved oxygen
– Suspended sediment
– Present chemical condition
– Present macroinvertebrate condition
✦ Channel Processes
– Flow characteristics
– Channel dimensions, shape, profile, and pattern
– Substrate composition
– Floodplain connectivity
– Evidence of entrenchment and/or deposition
– Lateral (bank) erosion
– Floodplain scour
– Channel avulsions and/or realignments
– Meander and braiding processes
– Depositional features
– Scour-fill processes
– Sediment transport class (suspended bedload)
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS PRESENTATION SLIDES
PRESENTED BY ROBERT EDGERTON, TETRA TECH, INC. 13
Data Analysis and Presentation
The Good…*
*Data adapted by Utah Otter Creek Nonpoint Source Interagency Monitoring Workgroup, May 1999
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999
Year
Eroding Bank
Available Cover
Percent
PRESENTATION SLIDES SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
14 PRESENTED BY ROBERT EDGERTON, TETRA TECH, INC.
The Bad…
0
20
40
60
1993 1994 1995 1998
Eroding Bank
Available Cover
Year
Eroding Bank Available Cover
Percent
The Ugly…
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
1992 1993 1994 1995 1996 1997 1998 1999
Year
Eroding Bank Available Cover
Percent
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS PRESENTATION SLIDES
PRESENTED BY ROBERT EDGERTON, TETRA TECH, INC. 15
Stacked Bar Chart
020406080
1993
1994
1995
1998
Eroding Bank Available Cover
Exploded Pie with Line
0
5
10
15
20
25
1
99
3
1
99
4
19
9
5
1998
Available Cover
Eroding Bank
1993
1994
1995
1998
0
20
40
60
80
Stacked Area (3-D)
Eroding Bank Available Cover
XY Scatter (var.)
0
10
20
30
40
50
60
1992 1994 1996 1998 2000
Eroding Bank
Available Cover
Photo Points
✦ Provide documented visual site conditions for the
project area at specified locations and times
(scale!)
✦ Invaluable for communicating trends in site
condition (pre-monitoring), and assisting in
analysis and quality assurance/data verification of
other site information
✦ Relatively inexpensive means of data collection
and analysis. Minimal experience required when
following Standard Operating Procedures (SOP)
PRESENTATION SLIDES SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
16 PRESENTED BY ROBERT EDGERTON, TETRA TECH, INC.
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS PRESENTATION SLIDES
PRESENTED BY ROBERT EDGERTON, TETRA TECH, INC. 17
Select Photo Point References
✦ Bauer, S.B. and T.A. Burton. 1993. Monitoring
protocols to evaluate water quality effects of grazing
management on western rangeland streams. EPA
910/R-93-017.
✦ Bovee, K.D. 1986. Development and evaluation of
habitat suitability criteria for use in the instream flow
incremental methodology. Instream Flow Information
Paper No. 21. Biological Report 86(7). U.S. Fish and
Wildlife Service.
✦ Meyers, L.H. 1987. Montana BLM riparian inventory
and monitoring. Riparian technical Bulletin No.1,
BLM-MT-PT-88-001-4410.
✦ U.S.D.I. Bureau of Land Management. 1974. BLM
Manual Supplement No. 6671 – Stream Surveys.
Select Monitoring References
✦ Averett, R.C. and L.J. Shroder. 1993. A guide to design of surface-
water quality studies. USGS Open-File Report 93-105.
✦ Karr, J.R. and W. Chu. 1997. Biological monitoring and assessment:
using multimetric indexes effectively. USEPA 235-R97-0001.
University of Washington.
✦ Kerchner, J.L. 1997. Setting riparian/aquatic restoration objectives
within a watershed context. Restoration Ecology Vol. 5, No. 45.
✦ Manley, P.A. et al. 1995. Sustaining ecosystems: a conceptual
framework. USDA Forest Service, Pacific Southwest Region.
✦ Rosgen, D. 1996. Applied River Morphology. Wildland Hydrology.
Pagosa Springs, CO.
✦ Sanders, T.G. et al. 1983. Design of networks for monitoring water
quality. Water Resources Publications. Littleton, CO.
✦ Stednick, J.D. 1991. Wildland water quality sampling and analysis.
Academic Press. San Diego, CA.
✦ Ward, R.C., J.C. Loftis, and G.B. McBride. 1990. Design of water
quality monitoring systems. Van Nostrand Reinhold. New York.
PRESENTATION SLIDES SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
18 PRESENTED BY ROBERT EDGERTON, TETRA TECH, INC.
Coordination Efforts
✦ Identify roles and responsibilities of all involved
parties
– Project coordinator, sponsor, landowners/participants
– State/Federal agencies
– Tribal governments
✦ MOU’s
✦ Identify activities/outreach/partnering with other
funded or non-funded Section 319 NPS programs
– Environmental Quality Incentives Program
– Conservation Reserve Program
✦ Did project compliment the State NPS program,
CWAP requirements, CWA 305(b) or 303(d)
listing requirements
Public Participation
✦ Qualitative description of public
participation in the project
✦ Outreach
– Final report essential to convey message of
project success to Congress, landowners,
public, other watershed groups
– Emphasize that final reporting is a process and
not just a product!
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS PRESENTATION SLIDES
PRESENTED BY ROBERT EDGERTON, TETRA TECH, INC. 19
Learning from our experience…
✦ Describe in detail aspects of the project that did
not work well:
– Missed milestones/opportunities
– Poor planning
– Lack of scientifically relevant data
– Inadequate funding
✦ Future project recommendations:
– Anticipated funding sources for project continuation
– Proposal of new projects
– Identification of new/innovative BMPs
One project’s downfall may be another’s silver lining!
“Never doubt that a small group
of thoughtful, committed citizens
can change the world; indeed,
it’s the only thing that ever has.”
Margaret Meade
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS PRESENTATION SLIDES
PRESENTED BY CHARLIE MACPHERSON, TETRA TECH, INC. 1
Making the Most
of Your Final Report
Charlie MacPherson
Tetra Tech, Inc.
PRESENTATION SLIDES SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
2 PRESENTED BY CHARLIE MACPHERSON, TETRA TECH, INC.
Scientists need to know this
to...
✔Explain technical concepts to non-technical
audiences
✔Get buy-in from decision-makers to fund
further implementation
✔Identify additional issues in the watershed
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS PRESENTATION SLIDES
PRESENTED BY CHARLIE MACPHERSON, TETRA TECH, INC. 3
Managers need to know this
to...
✔Educate decision-makers so they can make
informed decisions
✔Show program accomplishments
✔Create partnerships to share
responsibilities and resources
PRESENTATION SLIDES SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
4 PRESENTED BY CHARLIE MACPHERSON, TETRA TECH, INC.
Go slow to go fast...
By taking the time up front to produce a
good product, you’ll get the payoff later.
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS PRESENTATION SLIDES
PRESENTED BY CHARLIE MACPHERSON, TETRA TECH, INC. 5
Make the report work for you
✔Gives credibility to your organization
✔Increases the chances of future funding
– from both state and outside sources
✔May be used to create additional outreach
pieces
✔May be used to help recruit partners
PRESENTATION SLIDES SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
6 PRESENTED BY CHARLIE MACPHERSON, TETRA TECH, INC.
When do you start thinking about
the final report?
A. When the project is finished.
B. When EPA has called for the 14th time and is
threatening to withhold the remaining grant
money.
C. When the project is first awarded.
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS PRESENTATION SLIDES
PRESENTED BY CHARLIE MACPHERSON, TETRA TECH, INC. 7
Before you start writing...
✔What is the purpose of the report?
✔Who is the primary audience?
✔What major messages do we want to
communicate?
✔How will we distribute this report?
✔What resources are available to help you?
PRESENTATION SLIDES SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
8 PRESENTED BY CHARLIE MACPHERSON, TETRA TECH, INC.
Don’t reinvent the wheel
✔What information exists that can be used in the
final report?
– GRTS summary
✔What additional materials can be developed as
“spin-offs” from the final report?
– Fact sheets
– Project highlights
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS PRESENTATION SLIDES
PRESENTED BY CHARLIE MACPHERSON, TETRA TECH, INC. 9
The art of the final report
✔White space
✔Layout
✔Graphics
✔Communicating technical data
✔Photographs
✔Color
✔Content
PRESENTATION SLIDES SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
10 PRESENTED BY CHARLIE MACPHERSON, TETRA TECH, INC.
White space - How to get it
✔1/3 white space vs. 2/3 text
✔Widen margins (scholar margin)
✔Increase the leading
✔Use ragged right margins
White space refers to the amount of space on the page that is left blank. White space
should be treated as a graphic and used liberally. To immediately create white space, try
expanding the margins on the page. Make your headline wrap onto several lines so white
space is created on the right side of the page. Use left (not full) justification for text; this
creates more white space at the end of each line and also makes text easier to read since
your brain “remembers” the last word in the line above the one you’re reading.
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS PRESENTATION SLIDES
PRESENTED BY CHARLIE MACPHERSON, TETRA TECH, INC. 11
Layout
✔Create a template
✔Fonts that work - use restraint
✔Lots of subheads -Think USA Today
When designing the layout of your final report, use restraint, consistency, and quality
materials. Restraint should be used in choosing type faces or fonts, consistency should be
used with the kinds of graphics or artwork selected, and quality materials should be used
for photographs and artwork. Invite readers into your material with appealing, user-
friendly layouts.
Design your materials so the layout draws the eye into and around the entire work. Select
typefaces for readability. Provide variety, but don’t use them all. A good typeface calls
attention to the message, not to itself. Choose no more than two or three different
typefaces for your piece. DO NOT USE ALL CAPS BECAUSE IT IS TOO HARD TO
READ THE TEXT. San serif fonts (fonts that don’t have “feet” on the letters) are good
choices for headlines and subheads.
Arial and Helvetica are popular sans serif fonts. Serif fonts, such as Times Roman,
should be used for large blocks of text because your eye can read the words more easily
(this guide uses Humanist typeface for the headings and Century Old Style for the text).
Hundreds of fonts are available, but resist the urge to use them all in one publication just
because they are loaded on your computer. Experiment with the fonts to get the look you
want.
PRESENTATION SLIDES SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
12 PRESENTED BY CHARLIE MACPHERSON, TETRA TECH, INC.
Graphics
✔Less is more
✔Repeat graphics
✔Pull quotes
✔Show results, i.e., “data”
Graphics—photos, logos, or other artwork—are great for breaking up long, gray blocks
of text, allowing readers a visual break. Images of lakes, streams, rivers, wetlands, and
other watershed features are “naturals” for dressing up your message format. The
emotional appeal they elicit can be tremendous.
If you have a limited number of graphic images, try repeating the image across the page
or make the image different sizes. When using several graphic images on one page, vary
the sizes of the graphics for interest.
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS PRESENTATION SLIDES
PRESENTED BY CHARLIE MACPHERSON, TETRA TECH, INC. 13
Communicating technical data
✔Show relevance
✔Know your audience
✔Use pictures
✔Use English
When presenting technical data always keep the audience in mind. Whenever possible,
tie the data back to the resource with a graphic or a photograph to “show” why the results
are important. Consider showing the same information in several different formats to
reinforce the information being presented.
PRESENTATION SLIDES SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
14 PRESENTED BY CHARLIE MACPHERSON, TETRA TECH, INC.
P hotographs
✔Show your project in action
✔Show people doing things
✔Use only good photos
Using photographs can reinforce your message dramatically. But it is better not to use a
photograph at all if it is of poor quality. Taking effective photographs takes practice and
patience. Photos of people, especially children, appeal to many audiences. Show action
in your photographs, such as water quality sampling, tree plantings, or festivals.
If you do not have access to a good photographer, consider using stock photos. These
photos are available on CD-ROMs and can start as low as $25 for a set of 50 good-
quality photographs. The Internet also stocks thousands of images that can be
downloaded.
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS PRESENTATION SLIDES
PRESENTED BY CHARLIE MACPHERSON, TETRA TECH, INC. 15
Color on a shoestring
✔One-color vs. two-color
✔Colored paper
✔Digital printing
Using color in your final report will make it more attractive to your readers. There are
several ways to incorporate color without blowing your budget. Printing your report in
one color (such as a dark green or blue), costs no more than using black ink. The
increased printing cost for using two colors is minimal. Many printers have specific days
of the week where an extra color is “free” so be sure to ask.
Even just using a colored paper can add interest to your document. Remember to select a
color that will not interfere with reading the text and make sure it is on recycled paper.
Printing costs decrease dramatically with volume so think for the long-term when
producing copies.
PRESENTATION SLIDES SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS
16 PRESENTED BY CHARLIE MACPHERSON, TETRA TECH, INC.
Content
✔Tell a story
✔Use quotes
✔Lead off with questions
✔Keep asking yourself “so what?” Why does the
reader need to know this?
Make the text interesting for your readers. Keep the text to a minimum and use the active
voice. You can use various formats to make your text more engaging. Consider telling a
story or leading off with a letter from a stakeholder in the watershed. Always try to
include a local angle, and keep the message simple. Don’t use acronyms or overly
technical language.
SECTION 319 FINAL PROJECT REPORTS PRESENTATION SLIDES
PRESENTED BY CHARLIE MACPHERSON, TETRA TECH, INC. 17
Putting it all together
✔The good
✔The bad
✔The ugly
