Final Quality Assurance Project Plan

For Hoosic River Monitoring in 2002 DEP Project number 2002-09/MWI

Hoosic River Watershed Association (HooRWA)

Richard C. Schlesinger

Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection and

Massachusetts Executive Office of Environmental Affairs

April 20, 2002

Project Officer or Principal Investigator (Grantee) ___________________________________________________________ Richard C. Schlesinger, Monitoring Coordinator Date 860 Stratton Rd., Williamstown, MA 01267 (413) 458-3463

Project Quality Assurance Officer (Grantee) _______________________________________________________________ Harold Brotzman Biology Faculty, Mass. College of Liberal Arts Date 1249 N. Hoosac Rd., Williamstown, MA 01267 (413) 458-8575

EOEA Watershed Team Leader ___________________________________________________________ Tom O'Brien, Watershed Team Leader Date Housatonic and Hudson Watersheds 78 Center Street, Federal Building, Room 206, Pittsfield, MA 01201-6171 (413) 447-9771 Fax (413) 499-4169

DEP Project Officer ____________________________________________________________ Mark Schleeweis, Hudson Basin DEP Representative Date Department of Environmental Protection Western Regional Office 436 Dwight Street Springfield, MA 01103 (413) 755-2279 Fax: (413) 784-1149

DEP Environmental Analyst ________________________________________________________________ Katie O’Brien, DEP/DWM, Hudson Watershed Monitoring Coordinator Date Division of Watershed Management 627 Main St. 2nd Floor Worcester, MA 01608 (508) 792-7470 ext. 2863

DEP Reviewers ____________________________________________________________ Arthur Screpetis, DEP & Richard Chase, DEP/DWM Date 627 Main Street, Worcester, Massachusetts 01608 (508) 767-3873 (508) 767-2859 FAX – (508) 791-4131

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2. Table of Contents 3. Distribution List ... p. 2 4. Project/Task Organization ... p. 3 5. Problem Definition/Background ... p. 4 6. Project/Task Description ... p. 6 7. Measurement Quality Objectives ... p. 12 8. Training Requirements and Certification ... p. 15 9. Documentation and Records ... p. 16 10. Sampling Process Design ... p. 16 11. Sampling Method Requirements ... p. 17 12. Sample Handling and Custody Procedures ... p. 18 13. Analytical Methods Requirements ... p. 19 14. Quality Control Requirements ... p. 19 15. Instrument/Equipment Testing, Inspection, and Maintenance Requirements ... p. 19 16. Instrument Calibration and Frequency ... p. 20 17. Inspection/Acceptance Requirements ... p. 20 18. Data Acquisition Requirements ... p. 20 19. Data Management ... p. 21 20. Assessment and Response Actions ... p. 21 21. Reports ... p. 21 22. Data Review, Validation, and Verification ... p. 21 23. Validation and Verification Methods ... p. 21 24. Reconciliation with DQO's ... p. 21 References Cited…p. 21 Northern Site Locations map…23 Southern Site Location maps…24 HooRWA field report form…25 Berkshire EnviroLabs chain of custody form…p. 26 Method for collecting samples…p.26 Procedure for stream temperature…p.28 Procedure for pH…p.29 Procedure for orthophosphate…p.30 Procedure for nitrate-N…p.31 Procedure for continuity…p.32 Procedure for turbidity…p.33 Procedure for DO…p.34 Procedure for streamflow…p.35 3. Distribution List Names and telephone numbers of those receiving copies of this QAPP. i. Lauren Stevens, Executive Director HooRWA…(413) 458-2742 ii. Lisa Cary Moore, President HooRWA Board of Directors …(413) iii. Harold Brotzman, Mass. College of Liberal Arts…(413) 662-5347 iv. Tom O’Brien, EOEA Watershed Team Leader for Hudson Watershed…(413) 447-9771 v. Arthur Screpetis, DEP…(508) 767-2875 vi. William Enser, Jr., Berkshire Enviro-Labs … (413) 243-1416 vii Mark Schleeweis, DEP…(413) 755-2279 viii Katie O’Brien, DEP… (508) 792-7470 ext. 2863

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4. Project/Task Organization List key project personnel and their corresponding responsibilities.

Title Responsibility Name Address / Phone / email

ResponsibleAgency Fiscalmanagementoftheproject,projectobjectives,datauses,programchanges,etc.

HoosicRiverWatershedAssociation

P.O.Box667Williamstown,MA01267(413)458-2742hoorwa@berkshire.net

AdvisoryCommittee Primaryassistanceinidentifyingprojectobjectives,dataqualityobjectives&methods,andoversightofproject.

LaurenStevens(contact),HaroldBrotzmann,RichardSchlesinger

P.O.Box667Williamstown,MA01267(413)458-2742hoorwa@berkshire.net

ProjectManager DirectsprojectactivitiesincludingpreparationofQAPPandpreparationofreports.

RichardSchlesinger 860StrattonRd.Williamstown,MA01267(413)458-3463rschles@bcn.net

QAOfficer/QAPPwriter AssistswiththeQAPPandensuresthatallelementsoftheprojectfollowQAproceduresintheQAPP.

HaroldBrotzmann 1249 N. Hoosac Rd., Williamstown, MA 01267 (413) 458-8575

LaboratoryDirector Overseesorconductsalllabanalysesforbacteria,totalphosphorousandtotalsuspendedsolidsandensuresthatallQAproceduresinthelabQAPParefollowed.

BillEnser BerkshireEnviro-Labs,Inc.CornerofMainandCenterSt.Lee,MA01238(413)243-1416

MonitoringProjectCoordinator

Coordinatesallelementsofthefieldmonitoring,providestrainingtovolunteersandassessesfieldmonitoringperformance.

RichardSchlesinger 860StrattonRd.Williamstown,MA01267(413)458-3463rschles@bcn.net

MADEPQAofficer ReviewstheQAPPforaccuracyandcompleteness.

RichardChase 627 Main Street, Worcester, Massachusetts 01608 (508) 767-3873 richard.chase@massmail.state.ma.us

DEPprojectofficer Ensuresthatallagencyreportingrequirementsaremet

ArthurScrepetis 627 Main Street, Worcester, Massachusetts 01608 (508) 767873 arthur.screpetis@state.ma.us

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5. Problem Definition/Background

A. Problem Statement The Hoosic River watershed encompasses 205 sq. mi. upstream of the point that it leaves Massachusetts in the northwest corner of the state. This includes about 24 sq. mi. in Vermont north of Clarksburg, Mass. The Massachusetts segments, from Cheshire Lake downstream to the Vermont border and the North Branch from the Vermont border to its confluence with the main stem, are all 303d listed waters (see table below). The target water quality classes given in the Massachusetts Surface Water Quality Standards (1995) are class B, cold water fishery from Cheshire Lake to the Adams Waste Water Treatment Plant discharge (segment MA-11-03); class B, warm water fishery from the Adams WWTP to the confluence with the North Branch (segment MA-11-04); and class B, warm water fishery from the confluence with the North Branch to the Vermont State line in Williamstown (segment MA-11-05). The two North Branch segments (MA11-01 and MA11-02) are both targeted as class B, cold water fishery. The Green River segments (MA11-06 and MA11-22) are class B, cold water fishery and class B, High Quality Water, respectively, while Hemlock Brook (MA11-09) is classified as Class B, High Quality Water.

River segment Water Body From - To Cause

MA11-01 North Branch Hoosic River,

Vermont Line – USGS Gauge Siltation, Pathogens

MA11-02 North Branch Hoosic River,

USGS Gauge – Confluence with

Hoosic

Siltation, Pathogens Suspended Solids

MA11-03 Hoosic River Cheshire Reservoir – Adams WWTP Pathogens

MA11-04 Hoosic River Adams WWTP – Confluence with

North Branch Pathogens

MA11-05 Hoosic River Confluence with North Branch – Vermont Line in Williamstown

Priority organics, pathogens

MA11-06 Green River Headwaters in New

Ashford - Confluence with Hoosic River

Pathogens

Water quality monitoring activities along the river have been conducted at various times by the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (DEP) (most recently in 1997) and HooRWA (from 1996 through 2001) Also, a Stream Team Shoreline Survey of the North Branch was conducted in 1997 and a Stream Team Shoreline Survey of the South Branch (a.k.a. the Main Stem) was conducted in 1998. (Stream Team reports on file at HooRWA office.) The North Branch was surveyed from its apparent origin at a beaver meadow in Readsboro , Vt. to its confluence with the main stem in North Adams. The South Branch was surveyed from the Cheshire Lake dam in Cheshire to the Hunter Foundry bridge in North Adams, which is the point of beginning for the North Adams flood control structures. The DEP Assessment Report (Hudson River Basin 1997 Water Quality Assessment Report. 2000) suggests that the North Branch from Vermont line to USGS gage (segment MA11-01) be further monitored for benthic macroinvertebrates, diurnal dissolved oxygen and pH, total phosphorus, bacteria, and temperature. Upstream of the Vermont line, the North Branch Stream Team suggests that coliform

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monitoring might be needed to determine whether agricultural operations in the area might be impacting water quality. Also, the swimming beach at Mauserts Pond has been closed several times in the last several years due to high bacteria levels, perhaps due to beavers and geese and/or perhaps due to agriculture and residential uses along the tributaries feeding the pond, suggesting the need for coliform monitoring. From the limited background information available, it would appear that the highest bacteria levels at Mauserts Pond were associated with wet weather, although only 4 of the 18 samples collected between 7/27/00 and 8/29/00 met the criterion for passing. From the USGS gage to the confluence with the main Hoosic (segment MA11-02), the DEP Assessment Report suggests bacteria sampling. Although dry weather fecal coliform monitoring by HooRWA in 1996 and 1997 did not detect any levels that exceeded class B standards, this segment has exceeded class B levels at various times in the past, in particular prior to the time that Clarksburg was connected to sewer lines. (See Massachusetts Surface Water Quality Standards for specific criteria.) The DEP Assessment Report suggests additional chemical, physical, and biological monitoring within segment MA11-03 from Cheshire Lake to the Adams WWTP. The beginning of this segment at the Cheshire Lake dam has been found to have fecal coliform levels exceeding the class B criteria by DEP (7/8/97 and 9/16/97, dry weather samples). The Lake Association, which is directly concerned with only the north basin of the lake just upstream of the dam believes that the sources are farther upstream in the middle or south basins. This segment also includes the flood control structures in Adams, which are the current focus of a potential remediation project by the Corps of Engineers. Temperature data collected by HooRWA during 1989 and 1999 showed significant temperature increases in water temperature during its passage through the structures, especially in 1999, a year with below normal flows. (A report on the 1999 temperature monitoring entitled “Water temperatures in the south branch of the Hoosic River in Adams, Mass.” on file at HooRWA’s office.) The DEP Assessment Report suggests the need for additional biological and physical monitoring for segment MA11-04, from the Adams WWTP to the confluence with the North Branch. This segment includes the Specialty Minerals permitted discharge of heated water and the flood control structures in North Adams. HooRWA temperature monitoring in 1989, 1999, and 2000 at several locations within this segment provide some information on the effects of the Specialty Minerals discharge (current and planned). The segment of the Hoosic from the confluence with the North Branch to the Vermont line in Pownal (MA11-05) includes the continuation of the North Adams flood control structures, several bordering old landfill sites not currently active but also not completely stabilized , and the Hoosac Waste Water Treatment Plant serving Williamstown, North Adams, and Clarksburg. DEP suggests additional bacteria sampling and a stream walk to further identify possible areas of concern. The latest results from HooRWA’s monitoring (2001) for fecal coliform on the main stem and the North Branch of the Hoosic showed generally good conditions, although there continue to be a couple of areas of concern. The area immediately downstream of the Cheshire Lake dam continues to have high levels of bacteria. It is worth noting that the sampling at Farnums Causeway found very low levels flowing from the middle basin of the Lake into the north basin. Also, the levels at Cheshire Harbor were generally within the desired limits, indicating that the river appears to have recovered to some degree during its journey through the wetlands known as “the Jungle”. (Additional information is available in a HooRWA report “Monitoring the Hoosic: North Branch and Main Stem in 2001” on file at HooRWA’s office and on the website – www.hoorwa.org.) The other primary area of concern is the Marshall St, bridge location. The next sample site upstream at Hudson Brook was well below the bacteria threshold for Class B waters. Thus it would appear that there

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is a definite need to sample between those locations to help identify the source or sources of contamination. Also, from observations of the sample collectors, it appears that the volume of water in the river at Marshall St. is much less than at Hudson Brook, something that should be checked with direct measurements. HooRWA’s 2001 monitoring results for fecal coliform on the Green River show a definite improvement over the year 2000 results. (Additional information is available in a HooRWA report “How Clean the Green Part II” on file at HooRWA’s office and on the website – www.hoorwa.org.) The downstream site near the Rt. 2 bridge met the bacteria standard for primary recreation on all five sample days (four dry and one wet). The Christmas Brook area was much improved, with the only documented excursion above the threshold apparently associated with the breach of a silt fence at a construction site. The data from the Hopper Brook continued to be well below both the dry and wet weather thresholds. The recent changes at the farm north of Steele’s Corner has improved conditions in the fenced areas. And there do not appear to be water quality problems resulting from the golf course operation on the West Branch of the Green River. There are ongoing concerns within the section of the Green River from Deer Run Rd. downstream to Blair Rd.. Unfenced pasture areas between Deer Run Rd. and the next bridge crossing downstream continue to show fecal coliform levels above the primary recreation threshold. And there may be one or more problem areas within the segment near the Blair Rd. bridge. Concerns about non-point source pollution suggest the need for more information on water quality during and immediately after storm events. The 2001 monitoring season was considerably drier than the 2000 season, and thus the one “wet weather” sample does not provide a strong basis for drawing conclusions.

B. Intended Usage of Data The primary objective for the 2002 monitoring program is to complement and supplement the year 2 data collection by the Commonwealth within the 5 year watershed cycle. A second objective is to continue the efforts to monitor and/or bracket specific areas of concern identified in previous years. And a third objective, as part of our mission as a watershed association, is to provide volunteer opportunities for water quality monitoring to area citizens so as to increase awareness of, and appreciation for, the water resources in the watershed. As noted above, the DEP 1997 Assessment Report recommended several types of monitoring for various segments of the Hoosic. In some cases, these suggestions appear to be based on documented concerns while in others a general lack of data resulted in segments being classified as “Not Assessed”. We hope that we can contribute to a more complete understanding and assessment of the various segments of the Hoosic and its tributaries. The data will be forwarded to DEP for their use as they deem appropriate. Also, the results of the evaluations will be presented to the HooRWA Board of Directors and to the general public at Riverfest and the State of the River Conference as appropriate. The final report will also be made available on HooRWA’s website. 6. Project/Task Description

A. General Overview of Project The health of the river depends upon the types of land uses and conditions within the watershed, especially those in close proximity to the river itself. Although in the past there were numerous industrial uses of the river, and thus specific potential point sources of pollution, the primary concerns today are

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with non-point source pollution. By their very nature, sources of non-point pollution are difficult to identify. And the effect on water quality at any one location may be small although the cumulative effects within a watershed can be significant. We plan to focus our monitoring efforts at locations that will supplement those selected by the Commonwealth in order to gain as complete a picture of water quality conditions as time and resources allow. Toward that end, we have attempted to coordinate closely with the Hudson Basin Team and especially Katie O’Brien (DEP/Division of Watershed Management), who is responsible for coordinating the Commonwealth’s Y-2 monitoring with other state agencies (including the watershed team) and with volunteer monitoring organizations, during the monitoring site selection phase of the project. Proposed monitoring locations: Note. A letter code (such as used by DEP) identifies the main branch and each tributary. This is followed by a four digit number, with decimal point, that gives the distance (in kilometers to the nearest hundredth) from the confluence of each with the next larger branch. For example, a site on the North Branch is identified as NBxx.xx, with xx.xx being the distance in km from the confluence with the Hoosic. A site on the main stem of the Hoosic is identified as HRxx.xx, with the distance being measured from the Mass./Vt. line in Williamstown. Distances are from a GIS image. 1. CL02.48. Cheshire Lake (a.k.a. Cheshire Reservoir, Hoosac Lake) at the Farnam Road causeway just upstream of the junction between the middle and north basins. (HooRWA site in 2001). 2. CL00.00. At the point that the outflow from the north basin passes beneath the Ashuwillicook Trail. 3. HR37.56. Downstream/east at Rt. 8 near outlet of Cheshire Reservoir (DEP site HR08A in 1997 and HooRWA site in 2001). Samples from the latter site have shown high levels of bacteria. Comparisons between and among these three sites should help to determine where the high levels are coming from. 4. HR36.19. In Cheshire at the road bridge, upstream of the “jungle”, a wetland area bordering the Hoosic. 5. HR30.53. At Cheshire Harbor bridge off Rt. 8. Site is just downstream of the “jungle” wetland area. HooRWA site in 2002. Paired with HR36.19 upstream of the “jungle”. 6. PK00.21. Pecks Brook just upstream of Ashuwillicook Trail bridge. HooRWA temperature site in 2000. To be paired with DEP site (PE01) upstream of Adams. 7. HX00.33. Hoxie Brooks in Adams. HooRWA temperature site in 2000. 8. HX00.91. Off West St. in Adams, just upstream of the point that the stream goes underground through the Town center. Paired with HX00.33 to determine whether any water quality changes occur within the underground section of the stream. 9. PC00.29. Phillips Creek adjacent to the cemetery in North Adams. The watershed, which includes Tunnel Brook and a number of unnamed tributaries, is fairly large and appears not to have been studied in the past. 10. HR14.37. At Heritage State Park bridge. Location is near the upstream end of the concrete chutes in North Adams. 11. HR08.96. Downstream of the roll dam and USGS gauging station opposite Treets cleaners on Rt. 2. End of the North Adams flood control structures, and about 830 m. upstream of the Ashland Ave. canoe access. HooRWA 2001 site. 12. NB01.59. Downstream of the Eclipse Dam at the east end of Front St. in North Adams. Site is downstream of HooRWA’s 2001 near Hudson Brook on the North Branch, which showed acceptable water quality and upstream of the next site, which did not. 13. NB00.40. HooRWA 2001 site at Marshall St. bridge in North Adams on the North Branch. 14. HM06.10. At Margaret Lindley Park on Hemlock Brook in Williamstown. Compare with DEP site HB03.5.

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15. GN01.15. HooRWA site in 2000 and 2001 on the Green River just upstream of the Rt. 2 bridge in Williamstown. Also DEP site GN01. To be used for comparison of HooRWA and DEP equipment and procedures as well as a primary monitoring site for the Green River. 16. GC00.34. Upstream of the point where Christmas Brook enters an underground section before joining the Green River. HooRWA 2001 site. 17. GC01.42. On Christmas Brook upstream of Taconic Golf Course off Gale Rd., to compare with GC00.34. 18. GN09.16. On Green River at Deer Run Rd. HooRWA site 2000 and 2001, downstream of fenced pastures and upstream of unfenced pastures. 19. GN10.62. On the Green River upstream of fenced pastures, opposite Southlawn Cemetery. HooRWA site 2000 and 2001. 20. GW00.39. Upstream of fenced pastures on West Branch of the Green River adjacent to Bloedel Park. HooRWA site 2000 and 2001. The sites and variables are summarized in Table 1 below. Each site will be sampled at approximately monthly intervals. Samples for fecal coliform, E. coli, total phosphorus, and total suspended solids, to be taken to a state certified laboratory for analysis, will be collected from all 20 sites on the same day. Samples for the other parameters, to be measured or analyzed with HooRWA equipment, will be collected on different days, in groups of 5, 7 and 8 sites per sample day. The 3 groups are on the North Adams section, the Green River section, and the south branch section, respectively. Although the flow conditions and precipitation may change between sample days, they are also frequently different within subwatersheds on an given day. Especially during the summer months, rainfall events will take place on the east side of the Greylock range, in the south branch watershed, and not on the west side in the Green River watershed. Or in the watershed of the West Branch of the Green River toward Hancock and not in the New Ashford portion of the watershed. The sample days will include three dry weather and three wet weather days, “wet weather” being defined as per DEP’s criterion (Hudson River Basin 1997 Water Quality Assessment Report, 2000, p.8), i.e. precipitation prior to sampling that results in a marked increase in stream flow or as 0.5 inches of precipitation within the preceding 24 hour period. The online USGS stream gauge on the Hoosic (#01332500 “near Williamstown”) will be monitored before scheduling a sampling event as necessary, and stream flow data from the gauge will be collected following each sample day.

Table1. SiteDescriptionsandParametersforHooRWA2002Monitoring

Site Location1. Station ID Site Description Parameters Frequency

Cheshire Lake (MA11018) CL02.48 At Farnams Causeway, end of pipe connecting the

middle and north basins

Fecal coliform , E. coli, total phosphorus, total suspended solids2.

Dissolved oxygen, temperature, pH, conductivity, turbidity,

orthophosphate, nitrate-nitrogen.3.

Monthly (May-October)

Cheshire Lake (MA110002) CL00.00 At outflow from north basin Same as above Same as above

Hoosic River (MA11-03) HR37.56 Downstream/east of Rt. 8 near Cheshire Lake dam Same as above Same as above

Hoosic River (MA11-03) HR36.19 Windsor Rd. bridge in Cheshire Same as above, possible flow

measurement site Same as above

Hoosic River (MA11-03) HR30.53 Ashuwillicook Trail bridge at Cheshire Harbor Same as above Same as above

Pecks Brook (MA11-18) PK00.21 Upstream of Ashuwillicook Trail bridge in Adams Same as above, possible flow

measurement site Same as above

Hoxie Brook (MA11-??) HX00.33 Downstream of Ashuwillicook Trail bridge in

Adams Same as above Same as above

Hoxie Brook (MA11-??) HX00.91 In back of #20 West St. in Adams Same as above, possible flow

measurement site Same as above

Phillips Creek (MA11-??) PC00.29 Adjacent to Southview Cemetery in North Adams Same as above, possible flow

measurement site Same as above

Hoosic River (MA11-04) HR14.37 Bridge at Western Gateway Heritage State Park in

North Adams Same as above Same as above

Hoosic River (MA11-05) HR08.96 At USGS Stream Gauging Station #01332500 “near

Williamstown”, but in North Adams Same as above Same as above

North Branch (MA11-01) NB01.59 East end of Front St. downstream of Eclipse Dam in

North Adams Same as above Same as above

North Branch (MA11-01) NB00.40 At Marshall St. bridge in North Adams Same as above Same as above

1./ MA-XX waterbody segment numbers have not yet been assigned 2./ Set of parameters for which state certified laboratory will be used for analyses. 3./ Set of parameters to be analyzed with HooRWA equipment inhouse.

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Table 1 (Continued).

Site Location1. Station ID Site Description Parameters Frequency

Hemlock Brook (MA11-09) HM06.10 At Margaret Lindley Park, junction of Rt. 7 and Rt.

2 west in Williamstown

Fecal coliform , E. coli, total phosphorus, total suspended solids2.

Dissolved oxygen, temperature, pH, conductivity, turbidity,

orthophosphate, nitrate-nitrogen.3. , possible flow measurement site

Monthly (May-October)

Green River (MA11-06) GN01.15 Just downstream of USGS Stream Gauging Station

01333000 off Eastlawn Cemetery in Williamstown. Same as above Same as above

Christmas Brook (MA11-??) GC00.34 Off Weston Field parking lot in Williamstown Same as above, possible flow

measurement site Same as above

Christmas Brook (MA11-??) GC01.42 At culvert crossing on Gale Rd. in Williamstown Same as above, possible flow

measurement site Same as above

Green River (MA11-06) GN09.16 At Deer Run Rd. upstream of Rt. 43 bridge in

Williamstown Same as above, possible flow

measurement site Same as above

Green River (MA11-06) GN10.62 Off Southlawn Cemetery in Williamstown Same as above, possible flow

measurement site Same as above

West Branch Green River (MA11-22) GW00.39 Off Bloedel Park parking area in Williamstown Same as above, possible flow

measurement site Same as above 1./ MA-XX waterbody segment numbers have not yet been assigned

2./ Set of parameters for which state certified laboratory will be used for analyses. 3./ Set of parameters to be analyzed with HooRWA equipment inhouse.

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Additional stream flow measurements will be collected when possible at selected sites with the objective of developing correlations between these measurements and the USGS gauge data. Stream flow will routinely be estimated by the volunteers as “low”, “normal”, or “high” on each sample date. The Green River site (HooRWA GN01.15 and DEP GN01) will be sampled for several variables at the same time that DEP is sampling at the site with the objective of comparing HooRWA’s collection procedures and equipment with DEP’s. Variables of particular interest are temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen, conductance, turbidity, and, possibly, nitrate nitrogen. DEP plans to be sampling monthly from May-September 2002.

B. Project Timetable

Activity Projected Start Date Anticipated Date of Completion Scout sites March, 2002 April, 2002 Recruitment of volunteers April, 2002 May, 2002 Volunteer training April/May, 2002 May , 2002 Begin Monitoring May, 2002 October, 2002 (bacteria/chemical/physical) Laboratory analyses May, 2002 October, 2002 Data analyses October, 2002 January, 2003 Final report writing January, 2003 June , 2003 7. Data Quality Objectives for Measurement Data The overall data quality objective is to obtain sample data that can be compared with the water quality criteria established in 314 CMR 4.00: Massachusetts Surface Water Quality Standards. Where there are no specific Massachusetts standards for particular parameters, the objective is to compare with levels suggested in either the EPA publication, Volunteer Stream Monitoring: a Methods Manual, or in the River Watch Network manual, Testing the Waters (Behar 1996). There are three general sources of error than will determine the overall accuracy of the data: variability within the matrix (sampling error); the quality and resolution of the equipment and analysis methods (measurement error); and the skills and understanding of the samplers (observer error). The overall accuracy could be calculated by combining the three error terms if all of them could be determined, and will necessarily be larger than the largest of the three. There would appear to be three general types of parameters in terms of the sampling error, those that are dissolved in the water, those in suspension, and those that follow a diurnal pattern. Especially for parameters that are in suspension, such as bacteria and turbidity, sampling error will likely dominate the potential accuracy. (E.g., see Tiefenthaler, et al. 2001 and McGee et al. 1999.) Sample collection methods and laboratory methods can also be important sources of error. (E.g., see Kammerer et al. 1998.) In general, there is little or no information on the sampling error for our subject streams. In the following table, the column for accuracy reflects the capability of the instruments or procedures, not the overall

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accuracy of the measurements. Thus the differences between the measured and “true” values may be considerably underestimated. The current EPA definitions are as follows. a. Precision is measured by the analysis of duplicates. It is stated as the relative percent difference (RPD)

between the results for each pair of duplicates. Duplicates are two separate samples taken simultaneously (or as close together as possible) at the same location.

b. Accuracy* (bias*) is best measured by the analysis of spiked samples and is usually performed at a lab. A sample is divided into two portions (or aliquots). A known amount of a standard is added (or “spiked”) to one aliquot . Both aliquots are then analyzed and the amount of the spiked material recovered is compared to the amount added.

c. Reporting limits should be listed for most parameters. A reporting limit is the lowest value which a laboratory (or project officer in the case of field analyses) can quantitatively report with confidence.

d. Representativeness is the extent to which the sampling design and measurements obtained adequately reflect the true environmental conditions at the location being monitored.

e. Comparability is the degree to which these data can be compared to past studies at these sites and to similar studies elsewhere. Standardized sampling and analytical techniques with similar reporting limits help to ensure comparability.

f. Completeness is a comparison between the amount of data project leaders plan to collect versus the minimum which they decide must be collected to have a successful project. It is expressed as a percentage.

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A. Data Precision, Accuracy, Measurement Range Equipment Parameter Units Measurement Accuracy1 Precision2 MDL Range (+/-) (RPD) Alcohol thermometer temperature OC -5 to 105 1 5 % 1 YSI 55 probe temperature OC -5 to 45 0.2 5 % 0.1 Optic StowAway temperature OC -5 to 37 0.25 5 % 0.1 YSI 55 probe dissolved mg/l 0 – 20 0.3 5 % 0.01 oxygen % 0 – 200 2 5 % 0.1 Grab sample bacteria cfu/100ml 0 to 5000 BEL3 30%4 NA Grab sample total phosphorous (P) mg/l 0 – 5 BEL3 10% NA Grab sample suspended mg/l 0 – 250 BEL3 25% NA solids (TSS) Extech probe conductivity uS/cm 10 – 19,900 0.5% 5% 10 Extech probe pH standard 0 – 14 0.2 5% 0.1 units Colorimeter nitrate mg/l 0 – 3 5% 25% 0.02 nitrogen Colorimeter orthophosphate mg/l 0 – 3 5% 25% 0.01 Lamotte meter turbidity NTU 0 –1100 2% 10% 0.01 Rickly meter flow cfs 0 – 400 20% 20% 0.1

1 Accuracy is a measure of confidence that describes how close a measurement is to its “true” value. Thus, it reflects the combined errors due to sampling, instruments, and observers. Absolute difference between true value and measured value for true values in the lower 10% of the expected range or relative percent difference in the upper 90% of the expected range. 2 Precision is based on a comparison between duplicate or split samples. Absolute difference between replicates for measurements in the lower 10% of the expected range or Relative Percent Difference in the upper 90% of the expected range; add 10% to the absolute difference or RPD for replicate samples analyzed by two labs. 3 See the Berkshire EnviroLab protocol on file with DEP. 4 For bacteria samples, the RPD is calculated using log transformed data.

B. Data Representativeness

The monitoring sites were selected to bracket location/conditions of interest and not necessarily to represent the overall conditions of the river. However, the sites include many of those previously documented as not meeting one or more of the criteria for the river’s current classification.

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During training, volunteers will learn where to sample within a site, to ensure that they are getting a representative sample – e.g. for the water column measurements, they will learn to sample in the main current, to avoid backwater eddies, and to avoid kicking up substrate.

C. Data Comparability Several of the sites have been monitored previously by HooRWA for fecal coliform, and a few for chemical/physical parameters using the tools and procedures proposed for this project. We plan to collect data at one site (GN01.15) in common with the Commonwealth’s proposed 2002 monitoring. Of primary interest will be comparisons of equipment and procedures for dissolved oxygen, temperature, pH, conductivity, and turbidity.

D. Data Completeness Completeness is a comparison between the amount of data scheduled to be collected and the minimum amount actually collected in order for the monitoring to be considered successful.

Parameter No. Valid Samples No. Valid Samples Percent Anticipated Collected & Analyzed Complete Chemical/physical 6 per site 5 per site 87% Bacteria 6 per site 5 per site 87% 8. Training Requirements and Certification

A. Training Logistical Arrangements

Type of Training for Volunteers Frequency of Training/Certification

Grab samples for bacteria Beginning of season by HooRWA’s and chemicals monitoring coordinator and as needed Use of instruments for chemical Prior to use by HooRWA’s and physical monitoring monitoring coordinator and as needed Flow measurements Prior to use by HooRWA’s monitoring coordinator and as needed

B. Description of Training and Trainer Qualifications

Collection of grab samples will follow the procedures given in the EPA Volunteer Stream Monitoring Manual section 5.11. Training in the use of meters and chemical kits will by provided by HooRWA’s monitoring coordinator, using the instruction manuals provided. The monitoring coordinator (Schlesinger) has course work and experience in instrumentation from his micrometeorological background. He recently completed USGS flow measurement training.

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9. Documentation and Records Notes on the locations of the sites and photographs of the sites will be taken at each monitoring site prior to the sampling season. The notes will be entered into computer documents, and the field note sheets and photographs will be filed at the HooRWA office. Standard field forms will be used for recording information during sampling (attached). 10. Sampling Process Design

A. Rationale for Selection of Sampling Sites The sample sites have been selected to bracket the areas of interest, as noted above. Also, consideration was given to accessibility, both legal and physical. The sites were selected and documented by the monitoring coordinator. The list of proposed sampling locations was reviewed by the Hoosic Basin Team and modified following discussion. The sampling for bacteria and temperature will be carried out between 8 and 12 am so that the samples can be transported to the laboratory within the 6-hour window specified by the analysis protocol. Also any samples for determining total phosphorous and total suspended solids would be collected at the same time since those samples would be analyzed by the same laboratory. The expectation is that we can recruit and coordinate sufficient numbers of volunteers to cover all 20 sites on each sampling date. Sampling for the other chemical/physical sampling can not be done during a single day at all 20 sites due to equipment and sample analysis time limitations. Therefore, the sites have been divided into 3 groups as follows. Group A – CL02.48, CL00.00, HR37.56, HR36.19, HR30.53, and PK00.21, HX00.33, and HX00.90 . Group B - PC00.29, HR14.37, HR08.96, NB01.54, NB00.40. Group C – HM06.10, GN01.15, GC00.34, GC01.42, GN09.16, GN10.62, GW00.39. Group C, which includes the Green River site in common with the Commonwealth’s 2002 program, will be scheduled for the same day as the Commonwealth, while the other two groups will be sampled on two other days. When possible, dissolved oxygen will be measured predawn. However, since only a single dissolved oxygen meter is available, it will not be possible to obtain all predawn readings during the normal sample collection routine. It may be possible to include one or more focused sampling for only dissolved oxygen at the 3 groups and/or at all 20 sites within a one hour predawn window so that between site comparisons can be made.

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B. Sample Design Logistics Type of Sample # of Samples Sampling Sampling / Parameter per Site Frequency Period

Biological Fecal coliform 6 once/month May – Oct. E. coli Physical Temperature (Grab) 12 twice/month May – Oct. Temperature (Optic Stowaway) continuous June – Sept. Chemical/physical Dissolved oxygen 6 once/month May – Oct.

Nitrate-nitrogen Orthophosphate Conductivity Turbidity pH

Chemical/physical Total phosphorous 6 once/month May – Oct. Total suspended solids Physical Flow rates1 1 or 2 periodic May – Oct. 1 In addition to direct measurements of flow at specific locations, during each site sample visit, the flow will be estimated as “low”, “normal”, or “high”. Also, the flow data from the USGS gauge #01332500 will be obtained following each sampling day. C. Sampling locations All of the sampling locations are located on an orthophoto image with additional descriptive location information. Also, photographs of the sites provide additional visual information to assist in locating the sites. The specific sites are listed in section 6 above and shown on the attached maps. D. Coordination with DEP We will coordinate with DEP’s Hudson Watershed Monitoring Coordinator Katie O’Brien to assure that we can sample at the Green River site we have in common with DEP at the same time and day. And will discuss additional coordination as may be desired. 11. Sampling Method Requirements The sampling protocols are those provided by EPA in their “Volunteer Stream Monitoring Manual”, River Watch Network in their “Testing the Waters” manual, and the analysis procedures documented in the equipment manuals. Grab samples will be collected in bottles provided by Berkshire EnvioLabs for the bacteria (one bottle) and the total phosphorous and total suspended solids (a second bottle). Grab samples for other parameters will be collected in 500ml Whirl-Pak bags. The samples will be taken facing upstream from about midway between the stream bottom and the water surface within a flowing section. At most locations, samples will be collected by wading or, if unsafe to do so during higher flow conditions, from the stream bank with a pole holding the container to be filled. At the two bridge sites over the concrete chutes in North Adams, a small plastic (PVC) pail will be lowered and the sample bottles or bags filled from it.

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The DO meter will be used on site only. Since it is weather proof, it can be used under all conditions. The probe will be placed directly into the stream either by wading or using a pole extended from the stream bank and both DO and temperature readings recorded. At the two bridge sites, the probe will be used in the sampling pail immediately after the pail is filled and raised. The pH and conductivity probes will be used streamside in a similar fashion during dry weather. Since they are not weather proof, during wet weather, these tests will be done with the samples returned to in indoor location. During dry weather, the turbidity meter and the Smart Colorimeter can also be used streamside with the grab samples in Whirl-Pak bags, or the samples can be analyzed at an indoor location. During wet weather, they must be analyzed indoors. The primary information on stream flow will come from the estimated conditions made by the sampler at each site at each sampling occasion, coupled with the USGS stream gauge data from the online “near Williamstown” gauge and, eventually, the data from the USGS gauges in Adams and on the Green River. As resources (time and volunteers) allow, flow measurements (following the USGS current meter method) at selected locations will be added to the data pool. We do not anticipate that installing and calibrating staff gauges will be feasible nor necessary for the intended uses of the monitoring information. Parameter Sampling Equipment Sampling method Bacteria Sterile bottles (from Berkshire EnviroLabs) EPAVSMM section 5.11. Bacteria analyses Berkshire EnviroLabs protocol Total phosphorous & Sterile bottles EPAVSMM section 5.6 & 5.8. Total suspended solids (from Berkshire EnviroLabs) P and TSS analyses Berkshire EnviroLabs protocol Temperature Alcohol thermometers On site EPAVSMM 5.3 Dissolved oxygen YSI Model 55 On site probe Conductivity & pH Extech Model 34145A On site probe or Whirl-Pak bag. Turbidity LaMotte 2020 Turbidimeter On site or Whirl-Pak bag. Nitrate nitrogen LaMotte Smart Colorimeter grab sample with Whirl-Pak bag. Orthophosphate (not filtered) using LaMotte Test Kits Rate of Flow Rickly Pygmy Flow Meter On site USGS current-meter method 12. Sample Handling and Custody Procedures All sample handling will follow the sampling protocols noted above. The bacteria, total P and TSS samples will be placed in coolers on ice on site for transport to central collection points and transported on ice to the analysis laboratory (Berkshire Envio-Lab in Lee) within 6 hours of the time the first samples were collected from the river. A chain of custody form will be used for the samples. The nitrate-nitrogen and orthophosphate samples will be transported on ice to a central location and analyzed within 24 hours of collection. Alternatively, since the Smart Colorimeter can be operated on battery power, the unit can be used stream-side for these tests. The choice of where to conduct the

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analyses will be determined by weather conditions (the meter is not weather proof) and the interests of the volunteers. Turbidity can be handled similarly. Conductivity and pH can be sampled instream or a sample transported on ice to a central location for analysis. pH should be analyzed within 2 hours of collection. Dissolved oxygen must be sampled instream with the meter. The water temperature will be measured at the same time with the sensor built into the DO meter This meter is weather proof. 13. Analytical Methods Requirements Data summaries and sample analyses will follow the protocols references above. The Berkshire EnviroLabs, Inc. will conduct the bacteria, P, and TSS analyses. Their protocols and standard operating procedures are on file with DEP. 14. Quality Control Requirements

A. Field QC Checks

At least 10 % of the samples collected will be replicate (duplicate) samples for all the sample parameters. Duplicate meter readings will be taken on site for dissolved oxygen and conductivity and pH if done instream. Stream flow either just upstream or downstream of the USGS gauge “near Williamstown” could be measured and compared with the gauge reading as a field check of the current-meter method.

B. Laboratory QC Checks Berkshire Enviro-Labs, Inc. will provide their protocols and standard operating procedures to DEP. Standard solutions for conductivity (447 and 1413uS), for pH (7.00 and 10.01), and turbidity (1 and 10 NTU) will be used for checking and calibrating those meters prior to their use the day of sampling. The dissolved oxygen meter has a built in chamber for calibrating at 100% DO and will be calibrated prior to its use at the first sample site each day, and, as necessary at other sites if the elevation changes by 100 ft. or more. Ten percent of the nitrate and phosphate samples will be tested twice using the test kits and the Colorimeter. Also, a sample of deionized water will be run through the analysis procedures.

C. Data Analysis QC Checks After initial data entry by one person, a different person will verify that the entries are correct. The monitoring coordinator will be one of the two, the other will be a volunteer recruited to do so. 15. Instrument/Equipment Testing, Inspection, and Maintenance Requirements

Equipment Type Inspection Frequency Type of Inspection

Dissolved oxygen meter Prior to use Visual of membrane Turbidity meter glassware Prior to use Visual for scratches Smart Colorimeter glassware Prior to use Visual for scratches Flow meter Prior to use Spin test re Office of Surface

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Water Technical Memorandum No. 99.06 The Lamotte Turbidity meter, the Extech meter, and the YSI meter all will display “low battery” when the batteries need to be replaced, at which time they will be replaced with the spare batteries carried for that purpose with the instruments. The Smart Colorimeter likewise will display a “battery low” message, at which time it can still run a few more tests before displaying “batteries dead, recharge immediately, bye”. Since the meter will be used with its charger/alternative power supply plugged in when in the laboratory, and can run about 250 tests in the field when fully charged, this event is unlikely. But if it did occur, any unanalyzed samples would be returned to the laboratory and analyzed there with the meter plugged in. The glass colorimeter tubes, dedicated to either nitrate nitrogen or orthophosphate analysis, are triple rinsed with deionized water, rinsed once with the sample water, and then filled to the appropriate level with the sample to be analyzed. The turbidity tubes are handled identically. 16. Instrument Calibration and Frequency Equipment Type Calibration Frequency Standard or Calibration Instrument Used Laboratory equipment responsibility of Berkshire Enviro-Labs, Inc.

Conductivity & pH Prior to use Standard solutions and deionized water (blanks)

Turbidity Prior to use Standard solutions and deionized water (blanks)

Dissolved oxygen Prior to use Built in calibration chamber

At site GN01.15 Check against DEP data

Flow meter Prior to use Spin test re Office of Surface Water Technical Memorandum No. 99.06 Smart colorimeter At site GN01.15 sampling Check against DEP data

The conductivity/pH meter, turbidity meter, and dissolved oxygen meter will be adjusted as needed using the standard solutions and calibration chamber. The flow meter will be disassembled, cleaned and oiled if it fails the spin test. All test results will be recorded on either data forms or log sheets.

17. Inspection/Acceptance Requirements for Supplies Equipment for each of the sampling types will be assembled using the equipment check lists in the EPAVSMM or River Watch Network Testing the Waters. Chemical test kit and standard solution expiration dates will be recorded and checked prior to use. 18. Data Acquisition Requirements Maps will be prepared using ArcView and MassGIS data layers to help to identify monitoring locations and the general land uses in the area. Stream flow records from the USGS gaging stations on the Green River and upstream of the confluence of the Green with the Hoosic will be obtained to help in interpreting the data. These data will be used to determine or verify whether the samples were “wet” or “dry”. Rainfall information will be obtained from the weather station at Harriman and West Airport in North Adams (south branch subwatershed) and the monitoring coordinator’s Davis weather station in Williamstown (Green River subwatershed).

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19. Data Management The field and laboratory data will be entered into a spreadsheet (MS Excel). Final results may be displayed using ArcView maps, if appropriate. The field forms will be inspected by the field sampling leader immediately following each sampling date. Any omissions or apparent errors will be checked with the monitoring crew. The forms will be copied, the originals filed at the HooRWA office and the copies filed at the monitoring coordinator’s office. 20. Assessment and Response Actions The field leader will observe the volunteers to assess their understanding of the written procedures. For the monitoring with HooRWA’s equipment (of which they is only one set), the monitoring coordinator will initially work directly with the volunteers, and will normally be on site with them on most of the sampling days. If any deviations from the procedures is observed, they will be corrected and an assessment made as to whether any previously collected data is suspect. The laboratory assessment procedures will be provided by the Berkshire Enviro-Labs, Inc. 21. Reports Summary of the data will be prepared as soon after each sampling event as possible and made available to the volunteers. Also preliminary reports can be prepared as needed. Final reports will be prepared following the monitoring period, detailing the results of the monitoring program in terms of its objectives. As appropriate, the QA information will be included. 22. Data Review, Validation, and Verification All data will be reviewed by the Project Manager and QA Officer to determine if they meet the QAPP objectives. 23. Validation and Verification Methods All data will be examined for logical consistency by the Project Manager. If inconsistencies are found, an attempt will be made to determine whether the data is in error. For example, field notes taken at the time of the sampling event might indicate possible reasons for any inconsistency. Any apparent problems will be noted in the final reports as appropriate. 24. Reconciliation with DQO's The Project Manager will compare the data with the objectives for precision, completeness, and accuracy provided in section 7. References Cited Hudson River Basin 1997 Water Quality Assessment Report. 2000. Report # 11/12/13-AC-1. Prepared by: Laurie E. Kennedy and Mollie J. Weinstein, DEP/DWM. 98 pages.

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Kammerer, P.A., Jr., P.W. Rasmussen, and J.R. Ball. 1998. A comparison of water-quality sample collection methods used by the U.S. Geological Survey and the Wisconsin Department of Nature, Resources. online at URL http://nwqmc.site.net/98proceedings/Papers/24-KAMM.html. Massachusetts Surface Water Quality Standards, 1995. 314 CMR 4.00. “Unofficial” online version as of 10/10/01. online at URL http://www.state.ma.us/dep/brp/wm/files/314cmr4.pdf McGee, C.D., M.K. Leecaster, P.M. Vainik, R.T. Noble, K.O. Walker, and S.B. Weisberg. 1999. Comparison of bacterial indicator measurements among southern California marine monitoring. pp. 187-198 in S.B. Weiberg abd D. Hallock (eds.), Southern California Coastal Water Research Project Annual Report 1997-1998. Westminster, CA. Testing the Waters Chemical and Physical Vital Signs of a River. 1997. By Sharon Behar. 211 pages. Kendall/Hunt Publishing Co. Dubuque, Iowa. Tiefenthaler, L., K. Schiff, and M. Leecaster. 2001. Temporal variability patterns of stormwater concentrations in urban stormwater runoff. pp. 52-62 in: S. Weisberg (ed.), Southern California Coastal Water Research Project Annual Report 1999-2000. Southern California Coastal Water Research Project, Westminster, CA. Volunteer Stream Monitoring: a Methods Manual. 1997. EPA 841-B-97-003. 211 pages. Office of Water.

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Monitors’ Field Report Form Date ____________ Time ____________ Site _____________________________________ Sampler(s) Name(s) ___________________________________________________________ Recent Weather Conditions: Characterize the last 24 hours by checking those that apply. Sky conditions: __ clear __ partly cloudy __cloudy Rainfall: __ light rain __ moderate rain __heavy rain Temperatures __ hot __seasonable __cool Today’s Weather Conditions: __ clear __cloudy __rainy __heavy rain _______air temperature In-Stream Conditions: Characterize the condition of the river water by checking those that apply. Water level and flow: ____low ____normal ____high Turbidity: ____clear ____cloudy ____very cloudy Odor: ____fishy ____sewage ____other (explain) _________________________ Water temperature: __________ Stream Bank Conditions: Do you notice anything unusual along the banks within view at the site? E.g., any debris (trash, tires, barrels, dirt or asphat, etc.), signs of erosion or other disturbance. _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ Anything Else of Note? _____________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________ _____________________________________________________________________________

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Method of Collecting Samples – mainly extracted from EPAVSMM In general, sample away from the streambank in the main current, Never sample stagnant water. The outside curve of the stream is often a good place to sample since the main current tends to hug this bank. In shallow stretches, carefully wade into the center of the current to collect the sample. If the stream can not be waded safely, use the pole to extend the sample bottle into the current. When sampling with the bottles from BEL, remove and fill out the paper form, using a pencil, with the site identifier, source (stream or lake), date, time, bottle number, and samplers’ initials. Remove the cap from the bottle just before sampling. Avoid touching the inside of the bottle or the cap. If you accidentally touch the inside of the bottle, use another one. Wading. Try to disturb as little bottom sediment as possible. In any case, be careful not to collect water that has sediment from bottom disturbance. Stand facing upstream. Collect the water sample on your upstream side, in front of you. Hold the bottle near its base. and plunge it (opening downward) below the water surface. If you are using an extension pole, remove the cap, turn the bottle upside down, and plunge it into the water, facing upstream. Collect a water sample 8 to 12 inches beneath the surface or mid-way between the surface and the bottom if the stream reach is shallow. Turn the bottle underwater into the current and away from you. In slow-moving stream reaches, push the bottle underneath the surface and away from you in an upstream direction. Leave a 1-inch air space. Do not fill the bottle completely (so the sample can be shaken just before analysis). Recap the bottle carefully, remembering not to touch the inside. Place the samples in the cooler for transport to the lab.

When sampling with Whirl-pak bags, use the black marker to label the bag with the site number, date, and time. Tear off the top of the bag along the perforation above the wire tab just prior to sampling. Avoid touching the inside of the bag. If you accidentally touch the inside of the bag, use another one. Hole the two white pull tabs in each hand and lower the bag into the water on your upstream side with the opening facing upstream. open the bag midway between the surface and the bottom by pulling the white pull tabs. You may need to “scoop” water into the bag by drawing it through the water upstream away from you. Fill the bag no more than ¾ full. Lift the bag out of the water. Pour out excess water. Pull on the wire tabs to close the bag. Continue holding the wire tabs and flip the bag over at least 4-5 times quickly to seal the bag. Don’t try to squeeze the air out of the top of the bag. Fold the ends of the wire tabs together at the top of the bag, being careful not to puncture the bag. Twist them together, forming a loop. Place the samples in the cooler for transport to the lab.

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Procedure for measuring stream temperature - taken mainly from EPAVSMM

Background The rates of biological and chemical processes depend on temperature. Aquatic organisms from microbes to fish are dependent on certain temperature ranges for their optimal health. Optimal temperatures for fish depend on the species: some survive best in colder water, whereas others prefer warmer water. Benthic macroinvertebrates are also sensitive to temperature and will move in the stream to find their optimal temperature. If temperatures are outside this optimal range for a prolonged period of time, organisms are stressed and can die. Temperature is measured in degrees Fahrenheit (F) or degrees Celsius (C). For fish, there are two kinds of limiting temperatures the maximum temperature for short exposures and a weekly average temperature that varies according to the time of year and the life cycle stage of the fish species. Reproductive stages (spawning and embryo development) are the most sensitive stages. Temperature affects the oxygen content of the water (oxygen levels become lower as temperature increases); the rate of photosynthesis by aquatic plants; the metabolic rates of aquatic organisms; and the sensitivity of organisms to toxic wastes, parasites, and diseases. Causes of temperature change include weather, removal of shading streambank vegetation, impoundments (a body of water confined by a barrier, such as a dam), discharge of cooling water, urban storm water, and groundwater inflows to the stream.

Procedure In general, sample away from the streambank in the main current. The outside curve of the stream is often a good place to sample since the main current tends to hug this bank. In shallow stretches, wade into the center current carefully to measure temperature. If wading is not possible, tape your thermometer to an extension pole. Reach out from the shore as far as safely possible. If you use an extension pole, read the temperature quickly before it changes to the air temperature. If sampling from a bridge, lower the pail into the stream and withdraw a sample. Take the temperature of the sample water in the pail as quickly as possible. Measure temperature as follows:

1. Place the thermometer or meter probe in the water at least 4 inches below the surface or halfway to the bottom if in a shallow stream.

2. If using a thermometer, allow enough time for it to reach a stable temperature (at least 1 minute). If using a meter, allow the temperature reading to stabilize at a constant temperature reading.

3. If possible, try to read the temperature with the thermometer bulb beneath the water surface. If it is not possible, quickly remove the thermometer and read the temperature.

4. Record the temperature on the field data sheet.

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Procedure for measuring pH - taken from EPAVSMM and Extech manual

Background pH is a term used to indicate the alkalinity or acidity of a substance. It affects many chemical and biological processes in the water. For example, different organisms flourish within different ranges of pH. The largest variety of aquatic animals prefer a range of 6.5-8.0. pH outside this range reduces the diversity in the stream because it stresses the physiological systems of most organisms and can reduce reproduction. Low pH can also allow toxic elements and compounds to become mobile and "available" for uptake by aquatic plants and animals. This can produce conditions that are toxic to aquatic life, particularly to sensitive species like rainbow trout. Changes in acidity can be caused by atmospheric deposition (acid rain), surrounding rock, and certain wastewater discharges. The Massachusetts standards for pH call for it to be within the range of 6.5 through 8.3 and no more than 0.5 units outside of the background range. Much the Hoosic watershed is underlain by limestone and thus pH values above 7.0 (neutral) are normal. Procedure

pH can be measured in the field or in the laboratory. If a sample is returned to the lab., it should be measured within 2 hours of collection. We are using an Extech meter. A pH meter measures the electric potential (millivolts) across an electrode when immersed in water. This electric potential is a function of the hydrogen ion activity in the sample. Therefore, pH meters can display results in either millivolts (mV) or pH units. The Extech meter displays pH units. A pH meter consists of a potentiometer, which measures electric current; a glass electrode, which senses the electric potential where it meets the water sample; a reference electrode, which provides a constant electric potential; and a temperature compensating device, which adjusts the readings according to the temperature of the

sample (since pH varies with temperature). The reference and glass electrodes are frequently combined into a single probe called a combination electrode. Before accurate measurements can be obtained, it is necessary to calibrate the meter and electrode. The meter is calibrated using first the 7.00 pH buffer and then the 10.01 pH buffer. The meter should be calibrated before each sample day, using the following procedure. 1. Connect the pH electrode via the BNC connector to the meter. 2. Slide the SELECT switch to pH. 3. Adjust the TEMP knob to approximately the solution temperature (in degrees C). 4. Remove the wetting cap from the electrode and rinse in deionized water, blot dry, and place in the 7.0 buffer solution. Stir gently until display become stable (about 1 minute) 5. Adjust the CALIB knob until display reads 7.00. 6. Remove the probe, rinse in deionized water, blot dry, and place in the 10.01 buffer solution. Stir gently until display become stable (about 1 minute) 7. Adjust the SLOPE knob until display reads 10.01. 8. Repeat steps 4 through 7 until further adjustment is unnecessary. Water samples are collected with Whirl-Pak bags and returned on ice to a laboratory or central point for analysis. Or the measurements may be made directly in the stream. Note that the probe is not temperature compensated. There is a dial on the face of the meter for setting the temperature of the sample or stream. Also, it is important to keep the probe in moving water (use a stirring motion in still water or a laboratory sample) while the probe reading stabilizes. Record the pH reading on the field or lab. report form.

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Procedure for measuring orthophosphate - taken from EPAVSMM and LaMotte manual

Background Both phosphorus and nitrogen are essential nutrients for the plants and animals that make up the aquatic food web. Since phosphorus is the nutrient in short supply in most fresh waters, even a modest increase in phosphorus can, under the right conditions, set off a whole chain of undesirable events in a stream including accelerated plant growth, algae blooms, low dissolved oxygen, and the death of certain fish, invertebrates, and other aquatic animals. There are many sources of phosphorus, both natural and human. These include soil and rocks, wastewater treatment plants, runoff from fertilized lawns and cropland, failing septic systems, runoff from animal manure storage areas, disturbed land areas, drained wetlands, water treatment, and commercial cleaning preparations. Phosphorus has a complicated story. Pure, "elemental" phosphorus (P) is rare. In nature, phosphorus usually exists as part of a phosphate molecule (PO4). Phosphorus in aquatic systems occurs as organic phosphate and inorganic phosphate. Phosphate is measured in mg/l, but is generally reported as phosphorous. Small, nutrient-poor upland streams may respond to concentrations 0.01 mg/l, while larger river systems may respond only after concentrations approach 0.1 mg/l. In general, any concentration over 0.05 will likely have an impact while concentrations over 0.1 mg/l almost certainly will. There are no specific Massachusetts water quality criteria for class B waters. The term "orthophosphate" is a chemistry-based term that refers to the phosphate molecule all by itself. "Reactive phosphorus" is a corresponding method-based term that describes what you are actually measuring when you perform the test for orthophosphate. The total orthophosphate test is largely a measure of orthophosphate. Because the sample

is not filtered, the procedure measures both dissolved and suspended orthophosphate. The EPA-approved method for measuring total orthophosphate is known as the ascorbic acid method. Briefly, a reagent (either liquid or powder) containing ascorbic acid and ammonium molybdate reacts with orthophosphate in the sample to form a blue compound. The intensity of the blue color is directly proportional to the amount of orthophosphate in the water. Procedures for orthophosphate Water samples are collected with Whirl-Pak bags and returned on ice to a laboratory or central point for analysis using the LaMotte orthophosphate chemical kits and the Smart Colorimeter. The analyses should be conducted within 24 hours of collection. And is best done at temperatures between 20 and 25 degrees C. The kits are for levels between 0 and 3 ppm but can be extended by dilution if necessary. (1mg/L = 1 ppm). The procedures given in the LaMotte manual for the Colorimeter are as follows. 1. Press USE button to turn on colorimeter. 2. Scholl to and select SEQUENCE 3 3. Scholl to and select PHOSPHATE-L from menu 4. Rinse a clean colorimeter tube with sample water. Then fill to the 10 mL line with sample. 5. Insert tube into colorimeter and select SCAN BLANK 6. Remove tube from colorimeter. Use 1.0 mL piper to add 1.0 mL of Phosphate Acid Reagent. Cap and Mix. 7. Use the 0.1g spoon to add one measure of Phosphate Reducing Reagent. Cap and shake until powder dissolves. Wait 5 minutes for full color development. 8. At end of 5 minute period, insert tube into colorimeter and select SCAN SAMPLE. Record result. The minimum detection level (MDL) for the Colorimeter is 0.01 mg/l. To convert orthophosphate results to phosphorous, divide by 3. Thus the MDL for phosphorous is 0.0033 mg/l.

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Procedure for measuring Nitrate-N - taken from EPAVSMM and LaMotte manual

Background

Nitrates are a form of nitrogen, which is found in several different forms in terrestrial and aquatic ecosystems. These forms of nitrogen include ammonia (NH3), nitrates (NO3), and nitrites (NO2). Nitrates are essential plant nutrients, but in excess amounts they can cause significant water quality problems. Together with phosphorus, nitrates in excess amounts can accelerate eutrophication, causing dramatic increases in aquatic plant growth and changes in the types of plants and animals that live in the stream. This, in turn, affects dissolved oxygen, temperature, and other indicators. Excess nitrates can cause hypoxia (low levels of dissolved oxygen) and can become toxic to warm-blooded animals at higher concentrations (10 mg/L) or higher) under certain conditions. Sources of nitrates include wastewater treatment plants, runoff from fertilized lawns and cropland, failing on-site septic systems, runoff from animal manure storage areas, and industrial discharges that contain corrosion inhibitors. Natural levels of nitrates are generally less than 1 mg/l. In general, concentrations over 10 mg/l have an impact on fresh water systems. There are no specific Massachusetts water quality criteria for class B waters. Procedures for nitrate-nitrogen Water samples are collected with Whirl-Pak bags and returned on ice to a laboratory or central point for analysis using the LaMotte nitrate-nitrogen chemical kits and the Smart Colorimeter. The analyses should be conducted within 24 hours of collection. And are best done at temperatures between 20 and 25 degrees C. The kits are for levels between 0 and 3 ppm but can be extended by dilution if necessary. (1mg/L = 1 ppm). The procedures given in the LaMotte manual for the Colorimeter are as follows. 1. Press USE button to turn on colorimeter. 2. Scholl to and select SEQUENCE 3

3. Scholl to and select NITRATE-N from menu 4. Rinse a clean colorimeter tube with sample water. Then fill to the 10 mL line with sample. 5. Insert tube into colorimeter and select SCAN BLANK 6. Remove tube from colorimeter and pour off 5 mL into graduated cylinder. 7. Use graduated cylinder or similar to add 5 mL of Mixed Acid Reagent to the tube. Cap and Mix. Wait 2 minutes before proceeding. 8. Use the 0.1g spoon to add two measure of Nitrate Reducing Reagent. Cap. 9. Mix by inverting approximately 50-60 times a minute for 4 minutes. Wait 10 minutes for full color development. 10. At end of 10 minute period, insert tube into colorimeter and select SCAN SAMPLE. Record result. The minimum detection level (MDL) for the Colorimeter is 0.01 mg/l. To convert nitrate nitrogen results to nitrate, multiply by 4.4. Thus the MDL for nitrate is 0.044 mg/l.

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Procedure for measuring conductivity - taken from EPAVSMM and Extech manual

Background Conductivity is a measure of the ability of water to pass an electrical current. Conductivity in water is affected by the presence of inorganic dissolved solids such as chloride, nitrate, sulfate, and phosphate anions (ions that carry a negative charge) or sodium, magnesium, calcium, iron, and aluminum cations (ions that carry a positive charge). Organic compounds like oil, phenol, alcohol, and sugar do not conduct electrical current very well and therefore have a low conductivity when in water. Conductivity is also affected by temperature: the warmer the water, the higher the conductivity. For this reason, conductivity is reported as conductivity at 25 degrees Celsius (25 C). Conductivity in streams and rivers is affected primarily by the geology of the area through which the water flows. Streams that run through areas with granite bedrock tend to have lower conductivity because granite is composed of more inert materials that do not ionize (dissolve into ionic components) when washed into the water. On the other hand, streams that run through areas with clay soils tend to have higher conductivity because of the presence of materials that ionize when washed into the water. Ground water inflows can have the same effects depending on the bedrock they flow through. Discharges to streams can change the conductivity depending on their make-up. A failing sewage system would raise the conductivity because of the presence of chloride, phosphate, and nitrate; an oil spill would lower the conductivity. The basic unit of measurement of conductivity is the mho or siemens. Conductivity is measured in micromhos per centimeter (µmhos/cm) or microsiemens per centimeter (µs/cm). Distilled water has a conductivity in the range of 0.5 to 3 µmhos/cm. The conductivity of rivers in the United States generally ranges from 50 to 1500 µmhos/cm. Studies of inland fresh waters indicate that streams supporting good mixed

fisheries have a range between 150 and 500 µhos/cm. Conductivity outside this range could indicate that the water is not suitable for certain species of fish or macroinvertebrates. Industrial waters can range as high as 10,000 µmhos/cm. Procedure

Conductivity can be measured in the field or in the laboratory. If a sample is returned to the lab., it should be measured within 28 days of collection. We are using an Extech meter. Conductivity is measured with a probe and a meter. Voltage is applied between two electrodes in a probe immersed in the sample water. The drop in voltage caused by the resistance of the water is used to calculate the conductivity per centimeter. The meter converts the probe measurement to micromhos per centimeter and displays the result for the user. Before accurate measurements can be obtained, it is necessary to calibrate the meter and probe. The meter is calibrated using a commercial conductivity solution. The meter should be calibrated before each sample day, using the following procedure. 1. Connect the conductivity cell to the input socket on the side of the meter. 2. Slide the SELECT switch to µs/cm. 3. Place the cell in the calibrate solution and allow the reading to stabilize. 4. Adjust the cell adjustment until display reads the value of the calibration solution. Water samples are collected with Whirl-Pak bags and returned on ice to a laboratory or central point for analysis. Or the measurements may be made directly in the stream. Note that the probe is temperature compensated. It is important to keep the probe in moving water (use a stirring motion in still water or a laboratory sample) while the probe reading stabilizes. Record the conductivity reading on the field or lab. report form.

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Procedure for measuring turbidity - taken from EPAVSMM and LaMotte manual Background

Turbidity is a measure of water clarity, that is how much the material suspended in water decreases the passage of light through the water. Suspended materials include soil particles (clay, silt, and sand), algae, plankton, microbes, and other substances. These materials are typically in the size range of 0.004 mm (clay) to 1.0 mm (sand). Turbidity can affect the color of the water. Higher turbidity increases water temperatures because suspended particles absorb more heat. This, in turn, reduces the concentration of dissolved oxygen (DO) because warm water holds less DO than cold. Higher turbidity also reduces the amount of light penetrating the water, which reduces photosynthesis and the production of DO. Suspended materials can clog fish gills, reducing resistance to disease in fish, lowering growth rates, and affecting egg and larval development. As the particles settle, they can blanket the stream bottom, especially in slower waters, and smother fish eggs and benthic macroinvertebrates. Sources of turbidity include soil erosion, waste discharge, urban runoff. Turbidity often increases sharply during and after a rainfall. Natural or background turbidity varies from less than 1.0 NTU (nephelometric turbidity units) in mountain streams to more than 50 NTU in larger rivers after rainfall events. A change of 5 to 10 NTU’s above background is a significant change. There are no specific Massachusetts water quality criteria for class B waters. Procedure Water samples are collected with Whirl-Pak bags. The sample can be returned on ice to a

laboratory or central point for analysis using the LaMotte 2020 Turbidity meter. Or they may be analyzed streamside with the battery operated meter, if the weather is dry. Before accurate measurements can be obtained, it is necessary to calibrate the meter. The meter is calibrated using a commercial turbidity solution. The meter should be calibrated before each sample day, using the following procedure. 1. Fill a turbidity tube with the standard solution, cap, and wipe tube with a lint-free cloth.. 2. Open the lid of the meter and insert the tube, being careful to align the indexing arrow on the tube with that on the meter. 3. Close the lid and push the READ button. If the displayed value is not the same as the calibration solution, go to the next step. 4. Push the CAL button for 5 seconds until CAL is displayed. Release button. The display will flash. Adjust the display with the up and down arrow buttons until the value of the calibration is displayed. 5. Push the CAL button again to memorize the calibration. 6. Turn off the unit by holding the READ button down for at least 1 second, or proceed to measure the test samples. To analyze the samples, do the following. 1. Rinse an empty tube with a portion of the sample water. 2.Fill to the neck by carefully pouring the sample down the side of the tube to avoid bubbles. 3. Cap the tube and wipe tube with a lint-free cloth. 4. Open the lid of the meter and insert the tube, being careful to align the indexing arrow on the tube with that on the meter. 5. Close the lid and push the READ button. 6. Record the reading on the field or lab report form.

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Procedure for measuring dissolved oxygen - taken from EPAVSMM and YSI manual

Background The stream system both produces and consumes oxygen. It gains oxygen from the atmosphere and from plants as a result of photosynthesis. Running water, because of its churning, dissolves more oxygen than still water, such as that in a reservoir behind a dam. Respiration by aquatic animals, decomposition, and various chemical reactions consume oxygen. Wastewater from sewage treatment plants often contains organic materials that are decomposed by microorganisms, which use oxygen in the process. Other sources of oxygen-consuming waste include stormwater runoff from farmland or urban streets, feedlots, and failing septic systems. Oxygen is measured in its dissolved form as dissolved oxygen (DO). If more oxygen is consumed than is produced, dissolved oxygen levels decline and some sensitive animals may move away, weaken, or die. DO levels fluctuate seasonally and over a 24-hour period. They vary with water temperature and altitude. Cold water holds more oxygen than warm water and water holds less oxygen at higher altitudes. Thermal discharges, such as water used to cool machinery in a manufacturing plant or a power plant, raise the temperature of water and lower its oxygen content. Aquatic animals are most vulnerable to lowered DO levels in the early morning on hot summer days when stream flows are low, water temperatures are high, and aquatic plants have not been producing oxygen since sunset. Procedure We use a meter to measure DO. It is necessary to measure DO in the stream or in a sample measured immediately after being collected (e.g. in a pail from a bridge). The meter is weather proof, and thus it can be used under all weather conditions.

A dissolved oxygen meter is an electronic device that converts signals from a probe that is placed in the water into units of DO in milligrams per liter. Most meters and probes also measure temperature. The probe is filled with a salt solution and has a selectively permeable membrane that allows DO to pass from the stream water into the salt solution. The DO that has diffused into the salt solution changes the electric potential of the salt solution and this change is sent by electric cable to the meter, which converts the signal to milligrams per liter. The meter has a built in calibration/storage chamber for the probe. The meter should be turned on the warm up about 15 minutes before use. The following calibration steps should be done each time the meter is turned off or the elevation of the monitoring location has changed by 100 feet or more from the previous location. 1. Ensure that the sponge inside the chamber is wet. Insert probe into chamber. 2. To enter the calibration menu, use two fingers to press the UP Arrow and DOWN Arrow at the same time. (This assumes you turned the meter on 15 minutes ago.) 3. Enter the elevation of the site in hundreds of feet (e.g. 700 feet is entered as 7). Use the arrow keys to increase or decrease the number in the display. Then press ENTER 4. The meter now displays CAL. The calibration value will be in the lower right and the current value in the main display. Once the main value is stable, press ENTER. 5. The display now asks for the salinity, which for fresh water is 0. Press ENTER. The meter can read DO in either mg/L or % units. You switch from one to the other with the MODE key. To take a reading, place the probe in the stream and wait for the reading to stabilize. The probe should be in flowing water or stirred gently since the oxygen at the tip is used up. Record the DO reading (in either mg/L or %) and the temperature reading displayed on the field or lab report form. Then press the MODE key to view and record the DO in the other unit.

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Procedure for measuring stream flow - taken from USGS publications

Background Index Velocity Method (Current-Meter Method) In most streams, where flows change slowly with time in comparison to flows in highway and urban runoff drainage systems, point velocities are measured in multiple vertical sections along a cross section of the stream channel by use of a velocity meter or current meter The velocity in each vertical section is measured at a depth that represents the mean velocity in that section. If depth of the flow is sufficient, velocity is measured at two or more depths, the average representing mean velocity. Mean velocities are multiplied by the crosssectional area they represent, and are then summed to obtain the total flow, or discharge, at that stream cross section. Many velocity/area measurements are taken along the stream cross section to reduce the influences of irregularities in the stream channel and non-uniform distribution of velocities at the stream cross section on the total flow measurement. Total discharge at a streamflow section is usually represented by the sum of discharges from 25–30 subsections. The accuracy of a subsection discharge measurement is a function of the accuracies of the measured cross-sectional area of each vertical section, the velocity measurements, and whether the measured velocities represent mean velocities which are based on assumed velocity profiles. Errors in velocity measurements arise primarily from poorly calibrated and poorly maintained meters, and from velocity measurements obtained at inappropriate depths or under turbulent flow conditions. The error of most discharge measurements using the current-meter method (with vertical axis, cup-type current meters ranges from 3 to 6 percent.

Under ideal conditions, an error as low as about 2 percent can be achieved, but under poor conditions the error may be greater than 20 percent. Procedure We use a Rickly Pygmy Current meter to measure flow, along with a top setting wading rod. The steps for obtaining a flow measurement are as follows. 1. Select a location that is can be waded safely. 2. Stretch a measuring tape across the stream, at right angles to it, and anchor both ends such that the tape is not touching the water. 3. Divide the width of the stream by about 25. The objective is to have between 20 to 30 measurement points about equally spaced across the stream. E.g. if the total width is 48 feet, dividing by 24 would result in points 2 feet apart. 4. Place the wading rod at the first point within the stream, standing downstream and slightly to the side of the rod. Read and record the depth and record the distance from the starting point. 5. Set the velocity meter at the correct depth by using the scale at the top of the rod. 6. Record the number of counts from the velocity meter over a 40 to 70 second period. Also record the actual number of seconds. 7. Repeat steps 4 though 6 for each point. The rate of flow for each segment can be calculated and summed together to obtain the total flow at that point. This can be done in the field but can more easily be done in the office.