Benthic Sampling in Spearfish Creek, SD
RESPEC personnel have developed monitoring plans, implemented those plans, and
analyzed the results. These programs include base flow, spring runoff, and
event sampling. Sample program design is critical to a successful project and
involves many agencies and landowners. More cost-effective sample programs can
be developed by analyzing existing data, thereby focusing the effort and money
on critical areas, such as storm events or specific chemical species.
RESPEC personnel have installed and operated sampling systems using probes to
collect data, such as temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen-specific conductance,
turbidity, and flow data every 15 minutes. These data can be useful to look for
significant, but short-term, fluctuations in the system. RESPEC personal have
also deployed automatic sampling devices such as ISCO at remote locations to
collect samples triggered by events that result in significant flow increases
or changes in the chemistry. Additional capabilities are available through our
strategic alliance with
SDSM&T. Field programs are often supported by students pursuing
graduate degrees.
Biologic indicators can be used to indicate longer term quality of a water body
and can significantly increase the understanding of a water body. RESPEC
personnel have successfully designed and implemented benthic and periphyton
sampling programs.
Stream classification, along with riparian and habitat assessment, is a
critical component to understanding the watershed processes. We have
implemented the Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) new Environmental
Monitoring and Assessment Program (EMAP)
assessment tools and have successfully incorporated the results into an overall
understanding of watersheds.
Stream Characterization, Spearfish Creek, SD
RESPEC Water Quality Services:
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Surface water quality and biological monitoring program design
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Groundwater quality monitoring program design
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Field implementation of monitoring program
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Quality control and assurance program
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Permit compliance monitoring
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Rosgen/Schumm stream classification
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Stream habitat evaluation and stream characterization (EMAP)
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Sediment quality and transport surveys.
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