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i <br /> Introduction to an Environmental Assessment Overflight <br /> A.W. Research Laboratories(AWRL)has used low altitude remote sensing imagery to <br /> identify nutrient and toxic conditions in lakes and rivers since 1974. The use of remote <br /> sensing(aerial imagery)is invaluable for lake or river management because it quickly <br /> and economically summarizes complex environmental conditions. These dramatic aerial <br /> images demonstrate environmental conditions to lay people in a format that is easily <br /> understood. This tool allows gaining a better awareness of the effect on the environment <br /> and with that awareness an increased willingness to rectify problems. <br /> On a more technical level,the purpose of conducting an Environmental Assessment <br /> Overflight.(FAO)for any body of water is to detect areas of environmental concern,land <br /> use practices not conforming to local state or federal ordinances and point discharges.Once j <br /> these sources are located and investigated for their environmental m4wt,then concerned <br /> parties-whether they are governmental entities,industries,or homeowner and Lake <br /> Associations-can prioritize actions to minimize or terminate the source and the adverse <br /> impacts of the pollution. Successful efforts will result in attaining the ultimate goal of <br /> higher water quality,along with a cleaner and healthier environment for everyone to enjoy. <br /> In the first phase of Environmental Assessment Overflight(EAO),A-W.Research <br /> Laboratories'Remote Sensing System records the shorelines of rivers,streams and ditches <br /> with visible,hyperspectral,thermal,and near infiared cameras from a Lake Buccaneer <br /> Seaplane. Next,imagery of environmental areas of concern are correlated to geographic <br /> `.► maps,and analyzed for land use practices that are deteriorating water quality. The analysis <br /> enhances the identification of point sources of pollution,and determines their probable <br /> source. Finally,in the interpretive report best management practices(BW's)are <br /> recommended. All of the information and recommendations provided in the final report are <br /> also traditionally presented in an oral presentation and slide show for the client. <br />