Cooperator: University of Wisconsin-Green Bay
Project Chiefs: David J. Graczyk; Dale M. Robertson
Location: Brown County
Project Number: 9KP42
Period of Project: July 2003–Continuing
Problem
Nonpoint-source pollution is a major concern in Wisconsin. An evaluation strategy will be used to assess the effectiveness of nonpoint-source pollution control measures in five watersheds in the Lower Fox River and Duck Creek watersheds.
Objective
In-stream water-quality parameters (nutrients and suspended solids) will be monitored. The overall objective of this monitoring is to compare daily phosphorus and suspended solids loads for each watershed. Measured loads will be compared with those modeled by the University of Wisconsin Green Bay (UWGB).
Approach
Sampling will consist of fixed-interval and event-based sampling. Fixed interval monitoring consists of a predetermined sampling schedule that results in a set of data that captures natural variability in water quality due to a variety of unpredictable environmental conditions. Event-based monitoring consists of intensive sampling during periods of extreme variation in concentration and streamflow, which are important in accurately defining loads. Routine sampling will be conducted by the USGS and UWGB. Automated samples will be retrieved with the assistance from the UWGB. The USGS will determine which samples should be analyzed to represent the changes in water quality in the streams. All samples will be analyzed at the Green Bay Metropolitan Sewerage Treatment Water Quality Laboratory.
Progress (July 2003–June 2004)
Streamflow and water-quality gaging stations were installed on three streams (Apple Creek, Ashwaubenon Creek and Baird Creek). A water-quality sampler was installed at Duck Creek. An acoustic velocity meter (AVM) and water-quality sampler were installed at the East River at Monroe Street. Over 220 water-quality samples were collected during events and low flows and analyzed for suspended solids, total and dissolved phosphorus. Median concentrations of total phosphorus ranged from 0.43 mg/L in Duck Creek to 0.92 mg/L in Baird Creek. Median suspended solids concentrations ranged from 22 mg/L in the East River to 199 mg/L in Baird Creek. Streamflow measurements were made at all sites to determine stage–discharge relations.
Plans (July 2004–June 2005)
Apple, Ashwaubenon, Baird, and Duck Creeks will continue to be monitored for streamflow and water quality. Water-quality samples will be collected bi-weekly from April through October, and monthly from December through March. Samples will be collected at all sites during runoff periods. Land-use information will be updated for each basin. Water-quality loads for total phosphorus and suspended solids will be calculated and compared to modeled data by the UWGB. The data will be analyzed to determine if there are any apparent trends in water quality during implementation of best-management plans. All streamflow and water-quality data collected in 2004 will be summarized and published in the report “Water Resources Data−Wisconsin, Water Year 2004.” |
