Hydrologic Information System for Greenfield Site Development and Management

Greenfield land is defined as any tract of land not previously developed, and is often characterized as rural or low-density land with significant natural, cultural, or agricultural resources. Industrial development of greenfield land raises environmental concerns due to potential impacts on air and water quality, on the natural habitat of animal and plant species, and on the aesthetics or recreation value of the greenfield area. With respect to the water resources of a greenfield site (e.g., stormwater runoff, water quality, wetlands habitat), a generalized hydrologic analysis framework and information system is envisioned for the following purposes: i) Assess the potential hydrologic and environmental impacts of greenfield site development and operation; ii) Monitor site hydrologic and water quality conditions in real-time; iii) Convey information to decision-makers to promote timely actions that maintain key water resources functions on-site and minimize impacts downstream; and iv) Serve as a tool for environmental education and stakeholder participation. This paper describes the design of a greenfield hydrologic system for the General Motors Lansing-Delta Township facility, which opened for operation in 2006.