GeoAPEX-P, A web-based, spatial modeling tool for pesticide related environmental assessment

Hydrologic models are widely used to support evaluation and decision-making of nutrient and pesticide impacts on the environment including water quality and sensitive aquatic species, yet such tools are typically designed for research purposes that are time consuming to use and require certain expertise, data, and software. In this study, a web-based tool for the Agricultural Policy Environmental eXtender (APEX) model with nutrient and pesticide prediction functions was built incorporating GIS functionality, a spatial and online database, automated modeling system, and user-friendly interface. It provides a computation platform for conducting nutrient and pesticide evaluations at small watershed and field scales with commonly used scenarios and management options. Case studies were conducted, and results demonstrate the ability of the tool to identify spatial variability of runoff and sediment, nutrient, and pesticide losses. This tool can also provide rapid and site-specific guidance to decision makers for evaluating pesticide related assessments.