Environmental Studies 150 -- Final Project

Columbia Rapids -- A 21st Century Resort Community

 

The final Project for ENVS 150 will be to examine the details of a proposed project near Richland Washington.  The project involves the construction of single and multi-unit dwellings, a golf course, club houses, shops, and a new elementary school.  It is intended to serve as a community for those professionals already living in the Tri-cities, but also as a resort destination for those who enjoy the dry climate, golf, and particularly water sports and fishing along the wildest reach of the Columbia River.  The catch is that it is across the river from the Hanford Reservation.

The proposal calls for the installation of several wells on the site for the purposes of supplying water to the community.  There will also be a permit application to withdraw water from the Columbia River.  These measures are necessary because the local water supply infrastructure cannot handle the demands of such a large community, particularly one where large quantities of water are necessary for maintaining lawns, swimming pools, and a golf course.  To prepare for project day, go to the following link and familiarize yourself with the groundwater situation at Hanford.  Pay close attention to the Introduction, Highlights, and the maps.

http://groundwater.pnl.gov/reports/gwrep03/start.htm

When you arrive on the day of the project, you will be placed in a group of approximately six (see group divisions below). Each member will be assigned an area of expertise and associated point of view. Ultimately, at the end of the project, you will have to submit a recommendation.  The recommendation will either support or not support the development of the community.  It should have a sound basis for the recommendation, and may include a call for additional studies and/or specific requirements.  At the end, you will be asked to produce a written statement of your compromise, and you will explain your compromise to a larger group (<5 minutes).  The remaining time will be used to discuss the activity and answer questions. 

Points of View::

Groups

  1. #s 1,6,11,16,21,26
  2. #s 2,7,12,17,22,27
  3. #s 3,8,13,18,23,28
  4. #s 4,9,14,19,24,29
  5. #s 5,10,15,20,25,30+

Your grade will be based on the following criteria:

Your groups members will also have the opportunity to evaluate the group's success.

    

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