Water quality monitoring programs focus on physical, biological, and/or chemical factors or parameters to determine the health of the waterway. Physical parameters consist of temperature, flow, color, and turbidity. Biological indicators look at abundance, variety, and survival rates of both aquatic plants and animal life in the water. Lastly, chemical tests evaluate levels of dissolved oxygen, suspended sediments, nutrients, metals, oils, and pesticides. State agencies, local governments, universities, watershed associations, schools, and environmental groups may all conduct water quality monitoring tests to protect public health and the environment.
When taken together, physical, biological, and chemical parameters help paint a complete picture of the health of aquatic ecosystems and also note any perceived changes over time. If only physical or chemical parameters are measured, it is difficult to understand the impact they have on plants and animals within the system. Combined data can be used by planners, decision makers, and managers to make informed decisions to determine how to effectively manage water resources.
Fluvial geomorphology simply means the study of how water changes the landscape. Since most rivers and streams in Vermont are undergoing change, the Agency of Natural Resources is applying the principles of fluvial geomorphology for community-based watershed protection, management, restoration, and education. Geomorphic assessments are being conducted in our region and across the state to assess how rivers and streams are impacting water quality and can threaten nearby development.
Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation - The Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation's Water Quality Division monitors the water quality of lakes, ponds, rivers, streams and wetlands across Vermont.
Vermont List of Priority Surface Waters 303(d)
Vermont 2004 Water Quality Assessment Report
US Geological Survey - Has real-time water quality data from field and/or laboratory analysis of water, biological tissue, stream sediments, and other environmental samples for Vermont.
Fluvial Geomorphology and Stream Geomorphic Assessment
In This Section
Acid Mine Drainage
Bank Erosion & Sediment
Basin Planning
Fisheries
Floodplain Management
Good Road Maintenance
Grants
Invasive Species
Mercury
Non-Point Source Pollution
Organizations
Permits
Riparian Buffer Zones
Wastewater Treatment
Water Quality Studies
Water Supply Protection
Wetlands