Want to test a stream, river or….?

Select the stream and public access points – with some waterkeeper coaching.  The stream will need to be tested in ‘normal’ flow conditions at two points at one mile apart.  After the ‘normal flow’ testing, the stream needs to be tested after a heavy rainfall – preferably one inch or more.  The Hach test strips will indicate levels of ammonia, nitrates, phosphorus, and pH. The strips are about 3.5″ long with a felt like material that turns color to indicate the level of what you are testing for.  To test the stream. you will place the water from the stream in a clean bucket and use the test strips, look at the results and then record the results including the location where you are testing.  If both locations read the same in the spring, summer and fall, then this indicates there is no spike from the runoff in that corridor.  If both locations spike after a heavy rain, then testing further upstream may help to locate the source of the spike.   The results will be sent to waterkeeper where they will be incorporated into a spread sheet that will be posted monthly on this web site. Sites will only be identified by location.   You can either cease to test after reporting or select another location and go through the same process. These tests are indicators and do not qualify for data submission to the agencies.  If there is a difference in the numbers, additional steps will be taken. Additional more detailed testing is available with other organizations..  For more information email sandylakeerie@aol.com

From http://www.lakeeriewaterkeeper.org/