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The availability of potable groundwater supplies is a major environmental quality and human health concern throughout the United States. In the study reported here, a geographic information system (GIS) environment is used to apply an Integrated Earth Science-Economics Model (IESEM) that combines a regional-scale nonpoint source vulnerability assessment tool with a specifi c remediation measure to avoid unnecessary agricultural production costs related to the use of agrochemicals. Based on two screening indices that utilize earth science information, the vulnerability assessment tool functions in a spatial analysis to target areas vulnerable to groundwater contamination. This coordinated approach forms the core of a risk-based regulatory standard for the application of agrochemicals. The application of the IESEM in a cost-effectiveness analysis for 17 coordinated programs showed that 12 of the programs demonstrated substantial cost savings, ranging from $8.0 million to $244.0 million, that could accrue to producers if a regional vulnerability assessment were coordinated with a wellhead treatment program. The coordinated approach was not cost effective for the remaining fi ve programs. The case study was conducted for the Pearl Harbor basin on the island of O'ahu, Hawai'i. The IESEM approach was developed as a spatial analysis tool to estimate the benefi ts of an information-based approach to decisionmaking.
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