Road RAM Overview[44 Pgs, 2.5MB] Download User Manual [92 Pgs, 7MB] Download Tech. Doc. [74 Pgs, 3.2MB] Errata Log   [text file, 1 Pg]

The Road Rapid Assessment Methodology (Road RAM) is a simple and repeatable field observation and data management tool that can assist Tahoe Basin natural resource managers in determining the relative condition of impervious road surfaces. The primary purpose of the Road RAM is to rapidly determine and track the relative potential impact to the immediate downslope water quality from roads should a runoff event occur at the time of observation. Road RAM observations are based on scientifically defensible research and pollutant geochemical concepts, but facilitate rapid evaluations of road condition over many miles of roads. Road RAM can be implemented by anyone with a small amount of training and the results are simply communicated to a wide array of audiences. Road RAM results will inform the user of the relative maintenance needs to control pollutants from roadways and protect downslope water quality. Results can be used to inform a large number of water quality management questions, including potential WQ project design alternatives and justify the award of Lake Clarity Credits.

Available for download are an overview presentation and two documents: a User Manual and a Technical Document [see box above]. The Technical Document contains background information describing how the tool works and the rationale for and science behind tool development. The User Manual describes the specific protocols to create an inventory and classify roads according to attributes defined by the users and to select road segments on which to conduct the specified field observations. The Database is the tool used to house and manage data and calculate RAM scores. Familiarity with the Technical Document and User Manual are required to operate the database. The database is available at: tahoeroadram.com. To obtain a login for database access, contact the Database Administrator located at the bottom of the login page.