Frequently Asked Questions

Click on a question below to view the answer. If you still need more information, e-mail owsupport@rti.org or call the toll-free help line at 1-800-844-0638.

How do I get the ADB v.2?

You can get the ADB v.2 by downloading it from the Tools section. You can also call EPA's toll-free help line at 1-800-844-0638 or send an e-mail to owsupport@rti.org

When designing an ID scheme, several important factors should be considered:

• The list of IDs should be able to grow easily
• The IDs should not have to be changed unless the Assessment Unit gets redelineated
• The ID should not contain information that is stored in the Assessment Database

Generally, it is a good idea to start the ID with your state abbreviation. After that, you could choose to add an 8, 10, or 14-digit USGS subbasin or other locational information such as abbreviations for the state basin and watershed. A sequential number at the end is also a good idea. Here is an example from Colorado that uses the state basin and watershed:

COLCWH01

The first two letters (CO) indicate the state: Colorado. The second two letters (LC) indicate the State Basin: Lower Colorado. The last two letters (WH) indicate the State Watershed: White River Basin. The number at the end (01) is a sequential number and is independent of the location of the Assessment Unit. Avoid trying to put too much information into the Assessment Unit ID. You should also avoid creating IDs that contain information that can change, such as use support or stream order. The only required conventions for setting up unique IDs for the Assessment Units (AUs) is that they must be 50 characters or less.

How do I get the lastest version of the ADB?

The most current version of the ADB is ADB v2.3.1. If you have the ADB installed already, you can update it by going to the File menu and choosing check for Updates. Don't forget to update the Database, Tables, and the Software tabs.

Where is the TMDL snapshot stored on my hard drive?

The TMDL snapshot is downloaded and stored at C:\Program Files\ADB v2\tmdls.txt.

How do I export my category lists or my 303(d) lists?

There are several ways to export data from the ADB. Category and 303(d) lists are exported by using going to the file menu and choosing data and then choosing data exports. You may export your 303(d) list, Category list, and/or 4a, 4b, and 4c lists to a comma separated file from this screen.

How do I migrate my ADB v.1 database to ADB v2.2?

Please call call EPA's toll-free help line at 1-800-844-0638 or send an e-mail to owsupport@rti.org for help with data migration.

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