Methods for Evaluating Levels of Potential Stressors in Streams and Rivers

To improve the quality of aquatic ecosystems, states and regions not only need to know what rivers and streams are impaired, but they also need to identify the sources and quantity of pollutants that are causing impairments. This research focuses on analytical method development, plus organic and inorganic chemical analyses, for water, sediment and fish tissue samples from streams and rivers which support modeling, assessment, and diagnostic activities. Research includes methods performed in the laboratory, as well as remote sensing technology.

Analytical methods and chemical data (trace metals, pesticides and PCBs) in fish tissue produced in this subtask supports EPA's Environmental Monitoring and Assessment Program (EMAP). The primary aim of EMAP is to develop approaches to evaluate status and trends in aquatic resources nationally, and to work with others to demonstrate and implement monitoring. Development of methodology for determination of 70 pesticides and PCBs in sediments in support of the Landscape Indicators for Pesticides Studies - Mid-Atlanic Coastal Streams (LIPS-MACS) is also part of the research within this subtask. The primary focus of LIPS-MACS was to develop landscape models that characterize the status and vulnerability of streams, based on biological, chemical, and habitat conditions in those streams The methods developed during the LIPS-MACS study will be utilized for the LIPS-Midwest study.

The ability to evaluate levels of potential stressors in streams and rivers is dependent upon the availability of methods to determine concentrations of physical and chemical parameters in water, sediment and fish tissue. The objective of work in this task is to establish, document and execute analytical methods for water, sediment and fish tissue that produce data with known sensitivity and uncertainty to support modeling, assessment and diagnostics. These methods will be performed in the laboratory, in the field and with remote sensing technology.

• Development of Water Quality Indicators Using Remote Sensing