Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Operations at the Moab, Utah, Disposal Site CX(s) Applied: B3.1, B3.2Date: 09/12/2016 Location(s): UtahOffices(s): Legacy Management-Grand Junction
Office of NEPA Policy and Compliance
September 12, 2016
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Unmanned Aerial Systems (UAS) Operations at the Moab, Utah, Disposal Site
CX(s) Applied: B3.1, B3.2
Date: 09/12/2016
Location(s): Utah
Offices(s): Legacy Management-Grand Junction
The U.S. Geological Survey (USGS) and the U.S. Department of Energy (DOE) office of Legacy Management propose to use unmanned aerial systems (UAS) to acquire high-resolution spectral data needed to estimate spatial and temporal variability in evapotranspiration (ET) in southwestern riparian ecosystems that are dominated by tamarisk (Tamarix spp.). This acquisition would provide the high resolution needed to monitor defoliation and other subtle changes in tamarisk populations. At some UMTRCA sites, groundwater elevation, flow, and contaminant transport appear to vary seasonally and annually in response to changes in riparian ecosystems dominated by tamarisk. Therefore, effects of tamarisk and beetle interactions on ET are particularly relevant at these sites.