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Monitoring Water Quality |
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Across
the country, volunteers or workers monitor the condition of streams, rivers,
lakes, reservoirs, estuaries, coastal waters, wetlands, and wells. They
do this because they want to help protect a stream, lake, bay, or wetland
near where they live, work, or play. Their efforts are of particular value
in providing quality data and building stewardship of local waters. |
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Temperature
records can show if a creek is cool enough for fish to survive year-round
or not. Monitoring also detects and records pollution levels, enabling us
to seek corrective action, such as repairing broken sewer lines, or taking
action to lessen discharges of muddy water from factories or farms. Physical measurements include stream flow, temperature, and turbidity. Chemical measurements include dissolved oxygen (DO), pH level, nitrates, and phosphates. Biological measurements include collecting fish and aquatic insects, as well as aquatic plants and algae. Check out GREEN Hands-On Center to help you understand water quality testing measurements taken, or check out links to local and national groups that can help you find more information, as well as give you ideas for volunteer and career opportunities! |
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