What do we monitor?
On a monthly basis, volunteers will collect 1.5 liters of sample water which will be shipped to the Environmental Quality Institute laboratory at UNC-Asheville. The Lab will analyze for the parameters listed in Table 1 below. Volunteers will also conduct supplementary tests in the field for dissolved oxygen, fecal and coliform bacteria, and stream and air temperature each month. Once a year volunteers will assist the RIVERKEEPER in conducting a benthic (aquatic invertebrate) sample and visual assessment. When all of this information is combined, a much clearer picture of the health of each of the monitored waterbodies will become apparent.
pH & Alkalinity |
Turbidity |
Total Suspended Solids |
Conductivity |
Copper |
Lead |
Zinc |
Nitrate-nitrogen |
Nitrite-nitrogen |
Ammonia-nitrogen |
orthophosphate (PO4) |
Total Phosphorus |
For an explanation of all parameters tested, including definitions, the purpose of the test, normal in-stream levels and sources, click here (pdf file).