Sampling Protocols

Please click on the buttons below to learn more about each of the protocols used for Runoff Science surface water sampling and observations.

Planktonic Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs)

Visual observation to detect the presence of toxic cyanobacteria in the water column

Rivers / Lakes / Streams

Benthic Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs)

Visual observation to detect the presence of toxic cyanobacteria at the bottom of lakes and streams

Rivers / Lakes / Streams

Stream Flow

Visual observation to determine water availability and stream permanence

Rivers / Streams

Water Temperature

Field measurement that serves as an environmental indicator

Rivers / Lakes / Streams

Water Column Turbidity

Field kit visual measurement to assess water clarity and transport of suspended sediments

Rivers / Lakes / Streams

E. coli and total coliform

Test kit measurement to quantify most probable number of bacteria present

Rivers / Lakes / Streams

Dissolved Organic Carbon Concentration

Analytical laboratory measurement to evaluate landscape influence, including runoff and erosion

Rivers / Lakes / Streams

Water Column Light Absorbance

Analytical laboratory measurement to evaluate landscape influence and photosynthetically active radiation

Rivers / Lakes / Streams