Water QUEST: Center for Water Quality in Urban Environmental Systems

In response to the need for greater understanding of water quality in urban systems, Carnegie Mellon University has launched the Center for Water Quality in Urban Environmental Systems (WaterQUEST). The goal of this center is to advance the scientific basis for management of inputs and inventories of contaminants in urban watersheds. WaterQUEST will involve several critical components: (1) primary research on environmental sources and fate of contaminants of concern in urban systems (e.g., pathogens, persistent toxicants), (2) development of necessary monitoring and modeling capabilities for urban watersheds, (3) development of technologies and modeling tools for improved management of water quality in urban systems, and (4) outreach and education to develop a citizenry ready for the challenges of managing urban water systems. Located at Carnegie Mellon University in the heart of Pittsburgh, WaterQUEST will use this urban area as a laboratory for research and development.