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**Section 2**

Section two is a multipurpose section. This section of the NRCS
Watershed Education package is designed as forms, guides, surveys,
instructions and tools to be used along with the projects outlined in
section one of the package. Additionally, section two is designed as a
outline for a continual monitoring program for schools, organizations
and clubs to use for watershed education/ conservation and environmental
studies. If you have any question about using this section in
combination with the projects in section one, please visit us on the web
at [www.la.nrcs.usda.gov](http://www.la.nrcs.usda.gov/), or contact LA
NRCS Public Affairs at 318.473.7762

(To be considered - There are numerous positive education aspects in
starting a Watershed *Research and Monitoring Program.* A Watershed
Research and Monitoring Program will provide a way for students to
observe changes to a watershed over time. It can also lead to group
projects towards improving your watershed, which can be conceptualized
through a Watershed Research and Monitoring Program. To learn more about
a Watershed Research and Monitoring Program, please contact LA NRCS
Public Affairs at 318.473.7762)

***For more information to help you with soil, soils identification and
soil quality visit our national NRCS teacher's education website at
<http://www.nrcs.usda.gov/feature/education/>.***

***Getting Started Watershed***

• Identify a Stream Segment, Wetland or Lake Area to Monitor

• Determine the Official Name of Your Water body

• How To Obtain Maps and Other Information

• Determine Which Watershed You Are In

• Determining Your Lat/Long

• Sample Delineated Watershed

• Name Your Group

• Why Am I Monitoring? Setting Goals

• Determine What Equipment and Resources You Need

• Find Local Partners

• Determine What Data Will Be Collected

• Make a "Who To Call" List

• Inform a Local Official

• Public Outreach

##### Identifying a Stream Segment, Wetland or Lake to Monitor

Some general guidelines to follow for selection of a stream segment,
wetland or lake:

> Select a water body meaningful to you or your group.
>
> Select a location that has **easy, safe, and legal** access.
>
> Select a project that meets your monitoring goals.

**Stream**

Choose a stream that is meaningful to you and your group. Do you want to
learn more about a stream that flows near your home or school? Many
communities study an entire watershed and monitor several sites.
Comparing the effect of land uses on water quality can be interesting
(sample upstream and downstream of a farm, an urban area, etc.). We
suggest that you choose a ½ mile segment of stream to monitor. During
the watershed survey, you will locate one monitoring point that is
representative of your stream segment. From this location, you will
conduct the visual surveys, chemical and biological monitoring.

**Wetland**

Wetlands are not as common and easy to find as streams and creeks. For
this reason, it is advisable to work with a local partner who may own
land where a wetland is located or contact a government agency for
permission to work on publicly owned land. By purchasing a USGS
topographical quadrangle of the area of interest, you may learn if a
wetland is present. A better estimation of wetland location will be
found on a NWI map (National Wetland Inventory). These quadrangles
correlate to the USGS topographic maps and are specifically made to
identify and classify wetlands.

**Lake**

In Maine there are many small and large lakes ranging from farm ponds to
large reservoirs. Do you want to monitor a small pond, a larger lake or
one or more sites on a large reservoir?

##### Determine Official Name of Your Watershed

Many streams, wetlands and small ponds are not named on the maps. If
this is the case for your water body, contact your county or city water
or utilities department and ask them if they have named the water body.
Some groups make up their own names, but if this does not correspond to
the name used by the municipality or State, it will be hard to associate
your data to the appropriate water body. If you are looking at a stream
or wetland associated with a larger stream that is named, you should
call the stream "a tributary to (name of bigger stream)" or "wetland
adjacent to (name of water body)." For example, a small tributary
running into Orono Creek would be called "unnamed tributary to Onon
Creek." Also include the location such as, "flows under Main Street in
Downtown Orono".

##### How To Obtain Maps And Other Information

Stream headwaters, length, tributaries, final stream destination, and
watershed boundaries are best determined through maps. Of greatest value
are U.S. **Geological Survey 7.5- minute topographic maps** (on a
1:24,000 scale where 1 inch = 2,000 feet). They depict landforms, major
roads and political boundaries, developments, streams, tributaries,
lakes, and other land features. Sporting goods stores and bookstores
often carry these maps, especially for recreational areas that are
likely to be hiked or camped. The maps can also be ordered through the
U.S. Geological Survey (see Obtaining USGS Topographic Maps below).
Small versions are available online at http://www.topozone.com.

**Road, state, and county maps** might also prove helpful in identifying
some of these stream and watershed features. **Hydrologic unit maps**,
also available from the U.S. Geological Survey but at a 1:100,000 scale
of resolution (less detail than the 7 1/2-minute maps cited above) might
also help you determine hydrologic watershed boundaries. **Atlases** and
other reference materials at libraries can prove helpful in determining
facts about population in the watershed.

Land uses in the stream watershed might also be depicted on maps such as
those discussed above. You will verify this information in the second
half of the watershed survey, when you are actually in the field
observing land around your water body. Information from maps is
particularly useful in developing a broad statement about general land
use in the watershed (e.g., land use in the hypothetical Volunteer Creek
watershed is 60 percent residential, 20 percent parkland/recreational,
and 20 percent light industrial). Much information about your local
watershed can be obtained form the internet. **EPA Surf Your Watershed**
(http://www.epa.gov/surf3/states/MA/) is a good place to start, however
there are other sources for obtaining detailed maps, both topographical
and aerial views. Check with your local government, library and the
internet for your options.

##### Name Your Group

On the forms that follow this introduction, a few different names are
requested. The first is the official name of your water body. The next
name is the lead coordinator. That will be the main contact person for
the group, and his or her address and phone number should be written on
the form. The next name is the name of your group. This can be a fun
name or the official name of your organization that is monitoring a
water body. Once you have chosen a name, be consistent. This name will
be used to track your data forms throughout the year.

##### Why Am I Monitoring? Setting Goals

Generally, a *goal* is a broad statement that encompasses the purpose of
your involvement in watershed monitoring. An *objective* is a specific,
measurable, action oriented activity that will help you achieve your
goals. Don't get weighed down with the definition of goals and
objectives. What is important here is that you have a clear picture of
why you are adopting a stream, wetland or lake and what you hope to
achieve from your efforts. Then you can decide which activities you will
conduct. As you can imagine, the goals and objectives of each group may
be very different. Below are examples of goals and activities that you
may consider for your program.

Goals:

-   To learn more about my local stream and watershed.

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-   To educate the community about water quality, watersheds and
    nonpoint source pollution.

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-   To collect baseline water quality or stream morphology data.

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-   To get the community involved in a hands-on effort to protect the
    lake.

-   To form a watershed alliance.

-   To work in partnership with local governments and businesses to
    protect our water.

-   To teach aquatic biology to students.

Objectives:

-   Conduct the watershed survey and map assessment.

-   Speak at the neighborhood association or local church about your
    watershed

-   Obtain \$400 sponsorship from a local business to purchase
    monitoring equipment.

-   Conduct Visual Surveys four times a year.

-   Collect data on pH, dissolved oxygen, temperature and
    nitrate-nitrogen once a month for three years.

-   Organize two cleanups this year.

-   Ask someone at the local water authority to act as your technical
    advisor.

-   Send a letter to a local official, informing him or her of your
    intentions.

-   Write an article in your local paper with information on "Who to
    Call" if someone sees a water quality problem.

-   Collect data that will be useful to at least three entities
    (watershed organization, county water authority, local college).

##### Determine What Equipment and Resources You Need

Think about the equipment and resources you will need to accomplish your
goals. This may include topographic maps, boots, chemical test kits,
nets, garbage bags or information on how to form a watershed group.

**Equipment List for Watershed Survey and Map Assessment**

*Watershed Forms*

Topographic map

Transparency paper

Land use map

Camera

Tape measure

First aid kit

Boots

Gloves

**Equipment List for Visual Stream Survey**

*Watershed* forms

Camera

Tape measure

8 -- 10 ft. measuring stick

An orange

Calculator

Twine

Line level

Rebar

Pencil

Waterproof paper

Clear jar

**Equipment List for Chemical Monitoring**

Eye protectors

Boots

Gloves

First aid kit

Test kits for pH, Dissolved Oxygen, Nitrate-nitrogen, Phosphate,
Alkalinity

Thermometer

Imhoff cone

Waste bucket

Chemical data forms

**Equipment List for Biological Monitoring**

Watershed Forms

D-frame or kick seine net

Buckets

Forceps

Spoons

Pipettes

Sorting trays

Macroinvertebrate key (laminated)

Collecting jar with alcohol

**Equipment List for Wetland Monitoring**

Tape measure

Shovel

Soil color chart (laminated)

Local plant ID book

Wetland survey forms

**Equipment List for Lake Monitoring**

Secchi Disk

All equipment listed under Chemical Monitoring

##### Find Local Partners

Local partners can help make your project a success in many ways. They
can offer technical advice, donate equipment, or facilitate access to
the water body. The more partners you have, the more your efforts will
be magnified throughout your community.

Examples of local partners:

-   Large private landowners such as timber companies who may have
    wetlands on their property.

-   Government agencies like the NOAA Fisheries, US Fish and Wildlife,
    USDA, the Extension Service or the US Geological Survey.

-   Municipalities who may have an interest in working with citizen
    monitoring groups.

-   Environmental education centers.

-   Professors at colleges or universities.

-   A local bank that will sponsor your group.

-   A corporation interested in promoting and supporting environmental
    stewardship.

**Watershed Monitoring Package**

***Complete the following form for each stream segment, wetland or lake
you monitor. We must have a completed form on file at the state office
in order to include your efforts on our web site and database.***

This form is to register the monitoring of a:

STREAM WETLAND LAKE

(Circle one)

Name of stream / wetland / lake you are monitoring (official name)

Lead Coordinator / Contact

Complete Mailing Address

Phone Number(s)

E-mail Address

Topographic Map Quadrangle (**include copy of map**) on which your water
body can be located Watershed (Latitude / Longitude, County, Today's
Date).

1.  Describe the location of your monitoring site (i.e. 25 yards
    downstream of Smallville crossing in Smallville Village).

2.  What is the name of your monitoring group? (i.e. Science Club,
    Smallville High School , Smallville Science Club)?

3.  If associated with a larger group (i.e. NOAA Fisheries) please list
    them here.

4.  Who are your partners (partners may contribute equipment, provide
    skills or services, provide technical support or grant you access
    across their land)?

5.  What are the goals you hope to accomplish with the on going
    community watershed monitoring program?

6.  What equipment or supplies do you need to achieve your goals?

7.  Where will you send the data you collect?

8.  Name of the local official or agency that you have informed about
    your program.

9.  Name the QA/QC data collectors in your group.

**Watershed Survey and Map Assessment**

Group name: Investigator(s):

Type of water body: stream / wetland / lake

Water body name: County(ies):

Approximate size of drainage/study area: acres

# 

# Date: Time: Picture/photo documentation? Yes/No

I.  **CREATE A MAP OF YOUR WATERSHED**

> (create or generate a map of your water shed. Mark locations and key
> points of interest. Provide a legend at the bottom of your map)

**II. LAND USES/ACTIVITIES AND IMPERVIOUS COVER**

1.  **Identify land uses and activities in the watershed, which have the
    highest potential to impact water bodies:**

*Check all boxes that apply, describe the location of the activity(ies)
under Notes on Location & Frequency of Activities and also mark the
locations on your map. If too frequently occurring to record locations,
so note. If you don't know some of the information below, write DK under
Notes.*

**Please indicate if you: **surveyed only adjacent to the water body

> ****surveyed the whole watershed
>
> Provide notes as necessary

**Land Disturbing Activities & Adjacent In Notes on location & Other
Sources of Sediment to Water Watershed frequency of activity**

Extensive areas disturbed by land \_ \_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

development or construction of

utilities, roads & bridges

Large or extensive gullies \_ \_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Unpaved roads near or crossing streams \_ \_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Croplands \_ \_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Pastures with cattle access to water bodies \_ \_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Commercial forestry activities including \_ \_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

harvesting and site-preparation

Extensive areas of streambank failure or \_ \_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

channel enlargement

**Other Agricultural Activities**

Confined animal (cattle or swine) feeding \_ \_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

operations and concentrations of animals

Animal waste stabilization ponds \_ \_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Poultry houses \_ \_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

**Highways and Parking Areas**

Shopping centers & commercial areas \_ \_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Interstate and controlled access highways \_ \_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

and interchanges

Major highways and arterial streets \_ \_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Other extensive vehicle parking areas \_ \_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

**Mining**

Quarries with sediment basins in live \_ \_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

flowing streams

**Transportation and Motor Adjacent In Notes on location & Vehicle
Services to Water Watershed frequency of activity**

Truck cleaning services \_ \_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Public and private automobile repair \_ \_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

facilities

Car washes and large auto dealers \_ \_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Rail or container transfer yards \_ \_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Airports with fuel handling/aircraft repair \_ \_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

**Business & Industry, General**

Activities with exterior storage or \_ \_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

exchange of materials.

Activities with poor housekeeping \_ \_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

practices indicated by stains leading to

streams or storm drains or on-site

disposal of waste materials

Heavy industries such as textiles & \_ \_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

carpet, pulp & paper, metal, and vehicle

production or fabrication

Dry cleaners/outside chemical storage \_ \_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

**Food & Kindred Products**

Fertilizer production plants \_ \_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Feed preparation plants \_ \_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Meat and poultry slaughtering or \_ \_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

processing plants

**Construction Materials**

Wood treatment plants \_ \_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Concrete and asphalt batch plants \_ \_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

**Waste Recycling, Movement Adjacent In Notes on location &**

**& Disposal to Water Watershed frequency of activity**

Junk and auto salvage yards \_ \_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Solid waste transfer stations \_ \_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Landfills and dumps (old & active) \_ \_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Recycling centers \_ \_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Drum cleaning sites \_ \_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

**Illicit Waste Discharges\***

Sanitary sewer leaks or failure \_ \_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Overflowing sanitary sewer manholes due \_ \_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

to clogging or hydraulic overloading

Bypasses at treatment plants or relief valves \_ \_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

in hydraulically overloaded sanitary sewer lines

Domestic or industrial discharges \_ \_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Extensive areas with aged/malfunctioning \_ \_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

septic tanks

Dry-weather flows from pipes

(with detectable indications of pollution) \_ \_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Streamside areas of illegal dumping \_ \_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

\* If found (most likely during stream surveys), these activities should
be immediately reported to the local government.

**II Percent impervious surface** *acre overlay, example map and acreage
calculating grid.*

######### Coverage category for LANDUSE MAP method impervious times percent percent of

> Quotient of... impervious
>
> cover

Forest/open land/undeveloped land .005 x %

/vacant/land owned by institutions

Agriculture/pasture/cropland .005 x %

Single family residential .12 x %

(1.1 - 5 acre lot or no more than

1 dwelling per acre)

Single family residential .19 x %

(.5 - 1 acre lot or 0 -- 2

dwellings per acre)

Low density residential / single .26 x %

family residential (.25 - .5 acre lot or 0

-- 4 dwelling units per acre)

Low/medium density residential .48 x %

(.25 acre lot or smaller or 0 --8

dwelling units per acre)

Medium density residential .56 x %

(0 --12 dwelling units per acre)

High density residential .65 x %

(18 -- 30 dwelling units per acre)

Townhouse/apartment. .48 x %

Office/light industrial .70 x %

(assembly, finishing, packaging products)

Heavy industrial (timber, chemical, .80 x %

cement, brick plants, lumber mills)

Commercial (business districts, commercial .85 x %

strip development, shopping centers,

warehouses, parking lots, office buildings

Major roads .90 x %

> Total percent of watershed covered by %
>
> impervious surfaces

**III. WATERBODY AND WATERSHED**

######## CHARACTERISTICS

*This information will be gathered from your wetland, lake or stream
segment.*

**1. Note the number of hydrologic modifications on your water body:**
*structures that alter water flow*

None Beaver dams

Dams Dredge spoils

Bridges Pipes

Waterfalls Other

2.  **Note the approximate length of the stream that is affected by the
    following:** *if assessing a wetland, lake or pond, some of the
    following may also affect your water body.*

Stream culvert feet or mile or % of stream length

Stream straightening feet or mile or %

Concrete streambank/bottom feet or mile or %

Dredging/channelization feet or mile or %

Riprap/gabion feet or mile or %

# Cattle crossing \#

Stream crossing *(for vehicles)* \#

**3. Note extent of vegetative buffer along the banks:** *at a minimum
of 5 sites\*, at regular intervals (every 500 ft. in a ½ mile. section)
note the following*

**\# Width Location** (Left bank, Right bank or **Characteristics and**

**In Feet** N,S,E, W, side of wetland or lake **Comments**

**1**

**2**

**3**

**4**

**5**

**6**

**7**

**8**

**9**

**10**

**4. Check the categories that best describe the general appearance of
the water body:**

Litter:

> \_ No litter visible
>
> \_ Small litter occasionally (i.e., cans, paper)
>
> \_ Small litter common
>
> \_ Large litter occasionally (i.e., tires, pallets, shopping carts)
>
> \_ Large litter common

Special Problems:

> \_ Spills of chemicals, oil, etc.
>
> \_ Fish kills
>
> \_ Wildlife, waterfowl kills

Erosion:

> \_ No bank erosion or areas of erosion very rare; no artificial
> stabilization
>
> \_ Occasional areas of bank erosion
>
> \_ Areas of bank erosion common
>
> \_ Artificial bank stabilization (i.e., riprap) present

**5. Comments on general water body and watershed characteristics:**
(e.g. date and size offish kill, increased rate of erosion evident,
litter most evident after storms)

\* Fish kills should be immediately reported

**6. Summarize notable changes that have taken place since last year (if
this is not your first year conducting the Watershed Survey).**

**IV. PIPE AND DRAINAGE DITCH INVENTORY**

In this section, provide information on pipes and drainage ditches found
on the banks or in the water body. These pipes/ditches can be abandoned
or active. Note the information for each pipe or drainage ditch you
observe. *Make additional copies as necessary.*

Pipe \# Location Type Size Flow Water body condition Comments

1.  **Number each pipe/ditch** for mapping/locating purposes

2.  **Location of pipe/ditch:** note whether in water, bank, near water
    body or other. Describe location.

3.  **Identify type of pipe (list all that apply):** PVC, iron,
    concrete, galvanized; industrial outfall, sewage treatment plant
    outfall, storm drain, combined sewer overflow; agricultural field
    drainage, paddock or feedlot drainage, settlement basin/pond
    drainage, parking lot drainage, unknown, other

4.  **Size: measure approximate diameter of pipe:** inches or
    centimeters

5.  **Describe the discharge flow:** Rate of flow: none, intermittent,
    trickle, steady, heavy. Appearance: clear, foamy, turbid, oily
    sheen, color, other. Odor: none, rotten eggs/sewage, chemical,
    chlorine, other

6.  **Water body condition: describe the bank/water body below pipe or
    drainage ditch:** no problem evident, eroded, sewage litter (e.g.
    toilet paper), litter (e.g. bottles, cans), lots of algae, other

7.  **Comments of pipes and drainage ditches:** Use this space to
    explain or expand on information provided on pipes and discharges
    you have identified above. For example, you may want to identify
    particular facilities, or discuss in more detail the condition of
    the water body below the discharge. Use separate page if necessary.

**Determining Your Latitude and Longitude**

So that others can find the exact location of your monitoring site, you
will need to know how to determine the latitude and longitude of your
site. To locate the coordinates, you will need to work with a
topographic map and have access to the web. You can find maps on the web
at www.topozone.com. Scroll down to the bottom of the screen and type
the official name of your water body in the area designated "Place
Name." If you are working with an unnamed tributary to a larger stream,
type in the name of the larger stream. Select your state (ME) on the
pull-down menu, and click "Search." This should bring up a list of all
sites with that name. Select your site by clicking on the link, which
will take you to a topographic map of the area. Locate your exact data
collection point as closely as possible and click on it, using the green
arrows at the edges of the map to change the view if necessary. A small
red mark should appear where you click, allowing you to keep track of
your site. Now go to the top of the map and click on the 1:25,000 scale
option, which will zoom in on the red mark. Adjust its position if
necessary. At the bottom of the map, three coordinate format options
will appear. Select the one-labeled "DD.DDDD" for decimal degrees. The
latitude and longitude of your site and the name of the quadrangle will
appear above the map. Print this map for your records, noting the scale,
coordinates, quadrangle, and date of production, which may be obtained
by clicking "Quad Info" in the upper right corner of the screen.

To obtain a hard copy of the topographic quadrangle map, contact the US
Geological Survey may be reached at 1-800-USA-MAPS. Maps cost \$4 each
plus shipping and handling. To order the map, you will need the name of
the quadrangle, the scale of the map and the date it was printed. NOTE:
Your water body may cover more than one quadrangle. While topozone.com
provides lovely maps, its coordinates may not be precise. Therefore, to
determine the exact latitude and longitude of your site (important for
future studies!), you should now visit http://tiger.census.gov. Scroll
down and click on "The TIGER Mapping Service." This will bring up a
default map. About three quarters of the way down the page, enter the
latitude and longitude you obtained from topozone.com in the designated
spaces under BOTH "Place a Marker on this Map" and "Enter Precise
Coordinates." Set the map width to 0.022 and the map height to 0.009,
and click "Redraw map." Locate your data collection site, which should
be fairly close to the marker. To the right of the map, under "Click on
the image to:" select "Place Marker" and click on your site as precisely
as you can. When the map reloads, scroll down to the original "Place a
Marker on this Map," which will now show the new, more accurate
coordinates of your marked site. Record these coordinates for your final
data sheets, and print this map for your records.

**Atlanta, GA 30354**

**Macroinvertebrate Count Forms**

## To be conducted quarterly

Group name: County:

Site ID Topo Map Quadrant:

Investigators:

Stream name:

Date: Time: Photo Documentation? yes / no

Site/location Description:

*Rain in last 24 hours Present conditions (circle response)*

heavy rain steady rain heavy rain steady rain intermittent rain

intermittent rain none overcast partly cloudy clear/sunny

Amount of rain, if known? Inches in last hours/days

Use letter codes (**A**=1-9, **B**=10-99, **C**=100 or more) to record
the numbers of organisms found in a total sample. Then add up the number
of letters in each column and multiply by the indicated value. The
following columns are divided based on the organism\'s sensitivity to
pollutio

**Method used**: **Habitat selected for sampling**:

Muddy Bottom riffle

Rocky Bottom leaf pack/woody debris

> streambed with silty area (very fine particles)
>
> streambed with sand or small gravel
>
> vegetated bank
>
> other (specify)

**SENSITIVE SOMEWHAT-SENSITIVE TOLERANT**

caddisfly beetle larvae aquatic worms

hellgrammite clams blackfly larvae

mayflynymphs crane fly larvae leeches

gilled snails crayfish midge larvae

riffle beetle adult damselfly nymphs pouch snails

stonefly nymphs dragonfly nymphs

water penny larvae scuds

> sowbugs
>
> fishfly larvae
>
> alderfly larvae

\# of letters times 3 = \# of letters times 1 = \# of letters times 2 =

Now add together the three index values =
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ total index value

The total index value will give you an indication of the water quality
of your stream. Good water quality is indicated by a variety of
different kinds of organisms, with no one kind making up the majority of
the sample.

**WATER QUALITY RATING**

\_ Excellent (\>22) \_ Good (17-22) \_ Fair (11-16) \_ Poor (\<11)

**Visual Survey Forms**

***To be conducted every 3 months***

Group name: County:

Site ID Topo Map Quadrant:

Investigators:

Stream name:

Date: Time: Photo Documentation? yes / no

Site/location Description:

*Rain in last 24 hours Present conditions (circle response)*

heavy rain steady rain heavy rain steady rain intermittent rain

intermittent rain none overcast partly cloudy clear/sunny

Amount of rain, if known? Inches in last hours/days

**I. IN-STREAM CHARACTERISTICS**

**1. Stream reach:** The total-distance upstream to downstream of your
monitoring point from which you will be collecting your data. The stream
reach is 12 times your stream width, bankfull to bankfull.

bankfull width ft. x 12 = stream reach ft.

**2. Water flow:** Present conditions:

\_ in channel \_ flooding over banks \_ dry / no flow / pooling

Number of pools Number of riffles Number runs

**3. Flow rate:** where Flow = Area X Speed X coefficient

(Turn for stream flow calculating form.)

**CALCULATING STREAM FLOW**

**Flow = Area X Speed X Coefficient**

### CALCULATE AREA

Area = depth x width

*It is advisable to take multiple depth and width measurements always
start at the waters edge with a first measurement of zero all data
should be recorded in feet, with inches replaced by increments of 10*

Depth 1. 2. 3. 4. 5. 6. 7. 8. sum

measurements 0 ft

Average = sum of depth measurements

depth number of measurements

Width 1. 2. sum

measurements

Average = sum of width measurements

width number of measurements

> width depth

**Area** = X

**CALCULATE SPEED**-measure the time it takes a float to travel a
desired distance *it is advisable to take at least 2 measurements of
current speed take measurements from the stream run*

> length in feet 20 feet is
>
> recommended

Time In 1. 2. 3. 4. sum

seconds

Average = sum of time measurements

time number of measurements

**Speed** = length in feet

> average time in seconds

**CALCULATE STREAM FLOW**

**Flow** cfs = **Area** X **Speed** X **Coefficient**

*Flow in cubic feet per second* .9 coefficient for muddy bottom stream

> .8 coefficient for rocky bottom stream

**Measure Channel Cross Section:**

Drawing a stream cross section allows you to observe/track changes in
your stream channel shape. Forms are found on the last page of this
section.

**4. Tidal range:** *(complete only if site is affected by tide)*

Is waterway influenced by tides? \_ Yes \_ No If yes, when?
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

If tidally influenced: Tide was: \_ Rising \_ Falling

> Tide was: \_ High \_ Mid-range \_ Low

**5. Embeddedness:** Pick the category that best describes the extent to
which gravel, cobbles, and boulders on the stream bottom are embedded
(sunk) in silt, or mud. *Observations should be conducted from the
riffle section of your stream as opposed to run or pool areas. Only
complete if applicable to your stream.*

\_ somewhat/not embedded (0 - 25%) \_ mostly embedded (75%)

\_ halfway embedded (50%) \_ completely embedded (100%)

**Pebble count:** This is an easy way to determine the percentage of
silt, sand, gravel, rocks and boulders on your streambed.

**6. Presence of naturally occurring organic material in stream:**
*(Good habitat for aquatic organisms)*

Logs or large woody debris: \_ none \_ occasional \_ plentiful

Leaves, twigs, root mats, etc.: \_ none \_ occasional \_ plentiful

**7. Water odor: 8. Water surface:**

\_ natural/none \_ gasoline \_ clear \_ natural oily sheen

\_ sewage \_ chlorine \_ foamy \_ other

\_ rotten egg \_ chemical \_ oily sheen (petroleum product)

\_ other

**8. Water clarity:** check all that apply *(determine by viewing sample
water in a clear container)*

\_ turbid - suspended matter in water \_ sediment

\_ blue/green algae \_ other

\_ tannic - clear water that is naturally stained orange/brownish due to
organic acids in water

\_ no staining / no suspended matter \_ other (i.e. chemical discharge,
dyes)

Notes: \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

**9. Bank erosion:**

How vegetated is the left bank, looking down stream, for the length of
your reach (circle a percentage)?

Vegetated banks Bare/eroded banks

100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0

What are the visual indicators you used to assess the percentage above
(check all that apply)?

\_ exposed soil \_ obvious loss of soil \_ soil covered with vegetation

\_ steep slopes (banks are U shaped) \_ gentle slopes

\_ exposed roots \_ no exposed roots

How vegetated is the right bank, looking down stream, for the length of
your reach (circle a percentage)?

Vegetated banks Bare/eroded banks

100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0

What are the visual indicators you used to assess the percentage above
(check all that apply)?

\_ exposed soil \_ obvious loss of soil \_ soil covered with vegetation

\_ steep slopes (banks are U shaped) \_ gentle slopes

\_ exposed roots \_ no exposed roots

**10. Additional comments/observations:**

**II. VISUAL BIOLOGICAL SURVEY**

**1. Wildlife in or around the stream:**

\_ amphibians \_ waterfowl \_ reptiles \_ mammals

\_ mussels/clams/oysters \_crustaceans

**2. Fish in the stream:** *(Check all that apply)*

\_ no \_ yes, but rare \_ yes abundant

\_ small (1-2\") \_ medium (3-6\") \_ large (7\" and above)

Are there barriers to fish movement?

\_ none \_ beaver dams \_ waterfalls \> 1ft

\_ dams \_ road barriers \_ other :

**3. Aquatic plants in the stream:** *(Check all that apply)*

\_ none

**attached plants** **stream margin/edge** **pools** **near riffle**

occasional \_ \_ \_

plentiful \_ \_ \_

**free-floating plants** **stream margin/edge** **pools** **near
riffle**

occasional \_ \_ \_

plentiful \_ \_ \_

**4. Extent of algae in the stream:** Are the submerged stones, twigs,
or other material in the stream coated with a layer of algae? *(Check
all that apply)*

\_ none

brownish: light coating heavy coating

occasional \_ \_

plentiful \_ \_

greenish: light coating heavy coating

occasional \_ \_

plentiful \_ \_

other \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_: light coating heavy coating

occasional \_ \_

plentiful \_ \_

Are there any filamentous (string-like) algae?

> none occasional plentiful

brownish \_ \_ \_

greenish \_ \_ \_

other : \_ \_ \_

Are any detached "clumps" or "mats" of algae floating on the water's
surface?

> none occasional plentiful

brownish \_ \_ \_

greenish \_ \_ \_

other : \_ \_ \_

**5. Stream shade cover:** How well is the water surface shaded by
vegetation?

Looking down stream:

Total shading No shading

> 100% 90% 80% 70% 60% 50% 40% 30% 20% 10% 0

**6: Additional comments/observations:**

**III. SKETCH OF MONITORING SITE / STREAM REACH**

On the back of this page, or on a separate page, note the physical
features of the stream reach, such as: riffles, pools, runs, streambanks
(bare or eroded), changes to stream shape (rip-rap, gabions, cemented
banks), vegetation, stream flow obstructions (dams, pipes, culverts),
outfalls, tributaries, landscape features, paths, bridges, and roads.

As accurately as possible, identify the location of **channel
cross-section** measurements and provide **exact location of stream
reach** (e.g. Cricket Creek stream reach begins 57 feet north of
Cormorant Bridge.)

Include comments such as changes or potential problems, e.g. spills, new
construction, type of discharging pipes, etc.

**Stream Channel Cross-section Measurement Data**

Group name: County:

Site ID Topo Map Quadrant:

Investigators:

Stream name:

Date: Time: Photo Documentation? yes / no

Site/location Description:

*Rain in last 24 hours Present conditions (circle response)*

heavy rain steady rain heavy rain steady rain intermittent rain

intermittent rain none overcast partly cloudy clear/sunny

Amount of rain, if known? Inches in last hours/days

![](media/image2.png){width="6.2in" height="4.1in"}

![](media/image3.png){width="8.1in" height="5.2756944444444445in"}

![](media/image3.png){width="8.1in" height="4.740972222222222in"}

Measurements are always taken from the left stream bank, looking
downstream. Depth measurements are taken every two feet and in sections
where there is a notable change. Note left and right bankfull, water
edge, and sand bars.

![](media/image4.png){width="7.0in" height="9.2in"}

![](media/image5.png){width="7.264583333333333in" height="8.8in"}

![](media/image6.png){width="6.548611111111111in" height="9.0in"}

![](media/image7.png){width="6.6in" height="9.2in"}

**Chemical Data Forms**

Group name: County:

Site ID Topo Map Quadrant:

Investigators:

Stream name:

Date: Time: Photo Documentation? yes / no

Site/location Description:

*Rain in last 24 hours Present conditions (circle response)*

heavy rain steady rain heavy rain steady rain intermittent rain

intermittent rain none overcast partly cloudy clear/sunny

Amount of rain, if known? Inches in last hours/days

**BASIC TESTS Sample 1 Sample 2**

Air Temperature \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ (^0^C)

Water Temperature \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ (^0^C)

pH \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ (1-14)

Dissolved Oxygen \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ (mg/L or ppm)

Settleable Solids \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ (ml/L)

**ADVANCED TESTS**

Total Alkalinity \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ (mg/L or ppm)

Nitrate Nitrogen \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ (mg/L or ppm)

Ortho-phosphate \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ (mg/L or ppm)

**OTHER TESTS**

Fecal Coliform \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ (cfu /100 mL)

Chlorophyll A \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ (mg/L or ppm)

**Special Lab Analysis:** Name of lab performing tests:

**COMMENTS:**

**One Year Record**

![](media/image8.png){width="7.6in" height="2.9in"}Physical/ Chemical
and Biological Data

Chemical Monitoring Directions

#### Settleable Solids

1.  Fill Imhoff cone to 1 litter mark. Set aside and wait 45 minutes.

2.  Take direct reading in ppm (mg/l) from scale on side of cone.

##### Dissolved Oxygen

1.  Carefully collect the water sample into the glass water sampling
    bottle, avoiding trapping air bubbles or bubbling air into the
    sample (which may add dissolved oxygen).**\*ADD THE REAGENTS HOLDING
    THE BOTTLES VERTICAL\***

2.  Add the next two reagents in quick succession. Add 8 drops of
    Manganous Sulfate Solution and 8drops of Alkaline Potassium Iodide
    Azide to the sample. Cap the sample and invert several times. Wait
    until the precipitate settles below the neck of the bottle before
    proceeding.

3.  Next, add 8 drops of Sulfuric Acid 1:1. Cap and gently shake until
    the precipitate dissolves. The solution is now 'fixed' and may range
    in color from yellow to orange brown. ***Fixed Solution* -** Contact
    between the water sample and the atmosphere will not affect the test
    result because the dissolved oxygen has been bound into solution and
    no more oxygen will dissolve into the sample and no dissolved oxygen
    can be lost from the sample.

4.  Place 20 mL of the fixed sample into the glass titration tube.

##### TITRATION STEPS \* SWIRL AFTER EACH DROP IS ADDED \*

5.  Fill the titrator (small syringe) with Sodium Thiosulfate. Make sure
    no bubbles are in the titrator. Place the titrator into the hole in
    the cap of the glass titration vial or depending on, which kit is
    used, hold the eye dropper above the fixed sample.

6.  Slowly add Sodium Thiosulfate from the titrator into the sample.
    Continue one drop at a time until the solution turns a pale straw
    color.**Hint-High light intensity degrades Sodium Thiosulfate - do
    not allow bottle to be exposed to the sun for long periods of
    time.**

7.  Remove the titrator cap and syringe CAREFULLY so as not to lose any
    of the Sodium Thiosulfate (you will continue titrating in step 9).

8.  Add 8 drops of Starch Solution to the titration vial that is holding
    the sample. The sample will turn dark blue.

9.  Continue titrating with Sodium Thiosulfate **ONE DROP AT A TIME**
    until the solution turns from blue to clear.

10. Read the amount of dissolved oxygen in your sample directly from the
    syringe (direct reading titrator). Tick marks are in 0.2 ppm. Use
    the tip of the syringe plunger for dissolved oxygen value.

##### Temperature

1.  Air temperature - place thermometer in shady area and record
    temperature after reading stabilizes. Record temperature as ^o^C.

2.  Water temperature - take the temperature reading of the water in the
    shade. It is best to take the temperature reading directly in the
    stream, but if you can not, place thermometer directly into a bucket
    of sample water (in the shade) and record temperature. Take reading
    after temperature has stabilized (about 2 minutes). Record
    temperature as ^3^C.

**pH**

1.  Fill test tube to the 5 mL line of the glass tube.

2.  Add 10 drops of the pH wide range indicator (holding indicator
    bottle vertical). Cap and gently invert the sample several times to
    ensure mixing.

3.  Use the color comparator box to determine pH.

##### Alkalinity

1.  Fill titration tube to 5 mL line with water sample.

2.  Add one Phenolphthalein indicator tablet/pillow into the sample. If
    the sample doesn=t turn red, the phenolphthalein alkalinity is zero
    (Skip to step 4). If sample turns red, proceed to step 3.

3.  If the water becomes pink, add Sulfuric Acid Standard Solution (or
    the Alkalinity Titration Reagent B) drop wise, counting drops, until
    the water becomes colorless. Test result is read where plunger tip
    is located at the Titrator scale (on the syringe) in ppm.

4.  Add one Bromcresol Green-Methyl Red (BCG-MR) tablet to the sample
    and swirl to mix.

5.  Using syringe, begin titrating Sulfuric Acid Standard Solution (or
    Alkalinity Titration Reagent B) drop wise, counting drops and
    swirling the sample, until the solution flashes pink and holds
    purple color for at least 30 seconds (the end point). If no color
    change occurs after the titrator is emptied, refill and continue the
    titration, keeping track of the amount added.

6.  Once this endpoint is reached, the alkalinity is calculated. The
    test result is read in ppm where plunger tip is located at the
    titrator scale (on the syringe).

##### Phosphate

1.  Fill 3 test tubes (one sample and two blanks) to the 10 mL mark with
    sample water. Place in axial reader.

2.  Using 1.0 mL pipet add 1.0 mL of Phosphate Acid Reagent to sample
    test tube. Cap and mix

3.  Use 0.1 g spoon to add one level measure of Phosphate Reducing
    Reagent to sample test tube. Cap and mix until dissolved.

4.  Wait 5 minutes.

5.  Remove cap from test tube. Place test tube in comparator with axial
    reader. For accurate readings, fill 2 extra test tubes with sample
    water and place to the left and right of test tube sample. Insert
    ampole in Octet Comparator in square hole in front of test tube
    sample. Slide axial reader up or down to match sample color to a
    color standard. (Check diagram to the right.)

##### Nitrate Nitrogen

1.  Fill test tube to 5 mL mark with water sample.

2.  Add one nitrate #1 tablet. Cap and mix until tablet disintegrates.

3.  Add one nitrate #2 CTA tablet. Cap and mix until tablet
    disintegrates.

4.  Wait 5 minutes.

5.  Insert nitrate nitrogen Octa-slide bar into Octa-Slide viewer.
    Insert test tube into Octa-Slide viewer. Match sample color to color
    standard. Record as parts ppm Nitrate Nitrogen. (To convert to
    Nitrate, multiply results by 4.4. Record as ppm nitrate.)

**Salinity**

To conduct the salinity titration, only a small amount of sample water
is actually needed.

1.  Fill the titration vial to the line with Demineralized water from
    the Demineralizer bottle. Be as precise as you can.

2.  Using the pipette that ranges from 0 to 1.0, fill the pipette with
    sample water to the zero mark (volume = 1.0 mL). Wipe off any excess
    sample water from the pipette tip. Insert pipette into titration
    vial.

3.  Add only 0.5mL of the sample water from the pipette (from the zero
    mark to the 0.5 mark). Remove pipette from vial and lay pipette
    aside.

4.  Remove top from titration vial, and add 3 drops of the
    yellow-colored chromate indicator reagent; replace titration vial
    cap, and mix well.

5.  Fill the other pipette (that ranges from 0-20) with Silver Nitrate
    titration reagent. (NOTE: Silver nitrate is clear, but when it
    dries, it leaves a dark brown or black stain. You might notice such
    spots on your hands and fingers and possibly clothes if not wearing
    gloves).

6.  Place pipette in top of titration vial. Add silver nitrate solution
    one drop at a time, with plenty of swirl mixing after each drop. The
    end-point will be when the yellow solution turns orange and stays
    orange.

7.  When the end point is reached, read the pipette to determine the
    volume of silver nitrate added. NOTE that the pipette "numbers" are
    in twos, and thus each small hash mark between numbers represent
    0.4. The volume of silver nitrate added equals the numerical value
    of the salinity (in ppt).

**Secchi Disk**

The Secchi disk is a disk 20 centimeters in diameter with black and
white quadrants (or solid white).

1.  Attached to a calibrated line, the disk is lowered into the water
    until it just disappears from sight.

2.  The depth (distance from disk to the surface of the water) is noted
    and the disk is slowly raised until it reappears.

3.  The depth is noted again and the average of the two readings is
    recorded as "Secchi Depth," usually measured in meters. It the
    Secchi disk reaches the bottom before disappearing, the Secchi Depth
    is greater than the water depth and cannot be accurately measured.
    When this occurs, a notation must be added to the Secchi Depth
    reading in your data.

**How To Make A Kick Seine**

For collecting macroinvertebrates (courtesy of the Tennessee Valley
Authority)

Materials:

• 3 foot by 3-foot piece of nylon or metal window screening

• 4 strips of heavy canvas (6 inches by 36 inches)

• 2 broom handles or wooden dowels (5 or 6 feet long)

• finishing nails

• thread

• sewing machine

• hammer

• iron and ironing board

Procedure:

1.  Fold edges of canvas strips under, 1/2 inch, and press with iron.

2.  Sew 2 strips at top and bottom and then use other 2 strips to make
    casings for broom handles or dowels on left and right sides. Sew
    bottom of casings shut.

3.  Insert broom handles or dowels into casings and nail into place with
    finishing nails.

Speed method:

1.  Lay 3 foot by 3-foot piece of screening over broom handles.

2.  Staple or nail screen to broom handles.

    ![](media/image9.png){width="3.5in" height="2.9in"}

**Wetland Identification and Monitoring**

Major Categories General Location Wetland Types

***Coastal Wetlands***

Marine Open Coast Shrub wetland, salt (undiluted salt water) marsh,
mangrove swamp

Estuarine Estuaries (deltas, lagoons) Brackish marsh, shrub

(salt/freshwater mix) wetland, salt marsh,

> mangrove swamp

***Inland Wetlands***

Riverine River channels & flood Bottomlands, freshwater

(associated with rivers & plains marsh, delta marsh

streams)

Lacustrine Lakes & deltas Freshwater marsh, shrub and

(associated with lakes) forest wetlands

Palustrine Ponds, peatlands, uplands, Ephemeral ponds, tundra

(shallow ponds & freshwater groundwater seeps peatland, groundwater
spring

wetlands) oasis, bogs

**Classification system developed by Cowardin (1979) and used by U.S.
Fish and Wildlife Service**

**Wetland Functions and Values**

Now that you have determined the broad classification of your adopted
wetland, ask yourself, "Just how important is this ecosystem?" Wetlands
of any size have values and functions, which are beneficial to human
society or are of intrinsic importance. Wetland **functions** are those
processes that occur in a wetland system irrespective of human activity.
Depending on the wetland type, functions include floodwater storage,
erosion control, water purification, sediment trapping, chemical and
organic waste processing, nutrient removal, groundwater discharge and
recharge, and animal and plant habitat. These characteristics will
continue to occur regardless of man's presence. Wetland **values** are
those ecosystem processes that are perceived to have a positive impact
on people. Values may change over time as the perception of human
society changes over time. Wetland values and resources for humans may
include food, fuel, timber and fiber harvest, recreation, aesthetics,
and education. Of course, wetland functions can and should be "valued"
by society, but that is not always the case.

**Check off the Functions and Values of your wetland on the following
chart.** You may have to do a little research into local history and
uses of your wetland to complete the chart. Consider how the community
generally regards your wetland area. Remember, not all functions are
necessarily values and vice versa!

**Rank the characteristics from 1 - 5** (with 5 being the most
important) to get an idea of which functions and values are considered
more important. Photocopy the following chart and try to rank the
functions and values of your wetland once a year.

***Wetland Characteristic Wetland Value To Your***

> ***Function? Community?***

Recreational Values

\_ hunting permitted?

\_ fishing for food or sport?

\_ nature trails or wildlife observation points?

Fish, Wildlife and Plant Habitat

\_ wetland in migratory bird pathway?

\_ nesting of birds in wetland?

\_ habitat for mammal, birds, fish,

amphibians and reptiles?

Intrinsic

\_ only "natural" or green area in community?

\_ site for scientific research?

\_ habitat for endangered or threatened species?

Economic

\_ timber, fish, shellfish production?

\_ tourist attraction?

\_ timber or vegetation harvested?

Educational

\_ nature preserve or county park?

\_ nature center or interpretive trail?

\_ historical artifacts in or around wetland?

Flood Storage

\_ located in headwaters of the watershed?

\_ downstream in watershed?

\_ is it a riverine wetland?

\_ large enough to store and diminish flood waters?

Groundwater Recharge and Discharge

\_ recharge for community's drinking

water supply?

\_ does the community rely heavily

on groundwater for water supply?

Erosion Control: Channel and Shoreline

\_ does a prominent river of stream run

through the community?

\_ wetland associated with river, coast or lake?

Water Purification: Surface and Groundwater

\_ filter runoff water and release clean water?

\_ trap polluted runoff or excess nutrients?

**Visual Survey Form**

Use this form to record important information about vegetation, soils,
and hydrology in your wetland.

**Wetland Name: Group Name:**

**Site Number: Members Present:**

**Date: County:**

**Weather Conditions: (circle one)**

Clear Cloudy Rain Rain within last 24 to 48 hours?

**Visual Survey**

Water Precipitation Groundwater Stream/river Coastal Other

Source: /lake

Name of associated river/stream/lake:

Name General Wetland Circle type of system Open System Close System

Classification:

**Surface Water Odor:**

**Appearance:**

clear milky / gray none rotten eggs

muddy green natural sewage

oily brown gasoline or oil chemical

foamy black chlorine other:

scum other:

**Wetland Buffer: Excellent Good Fair Poor**

(within 25 ft. from wetland)

Natural Vegetative \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Cover \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Bank Stable- no erosion \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Undisturbed land \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

**Impacts To Wetland:**

\_\_\_\_\_ Artificial water control (dam, dyke, etc) \_\_\_\_\_ Dumping
of sand, dirt, gravel

\_\_\_\_\_ Eroded banks \_\_\_\_\_ Trash

\_\_\_\_\_ Dredging \_\_\_\_\_ Clearing of vegetation

\_\_\_\_\_ Algal blooms (Indicates nutrients) \_\_\_\_\_ Other:

**Transect Locations**

# Location of transect upland point \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Length of transect \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ ft.

Compass bearing along transect
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ (degrees)

Numbers of stations along transect
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Location of transect wetland point
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

**Vegetation Survey**

At each sampling station, look at the area within a 5 foot radius from
the point along your transect. Identify the 3 dominant species in each
layer. Record species name (cypress, red maple, lizard tail, cattail,
etc.) and wetland indicator status (obligate, FacWet, Fac, Upland) if
known.

Layers Station 1 Station 2 Station 3

Tree

Shrub

Herbaceous

Layer

**Vegetation Survey**

Layers Station 4 Station 5 Station 6

Tree

Shrub

Herbaceous

Layer

How many plant communities (obvious changes in vegetation) do you see
along your transect?

**Soil Survey Form**

To collect your soil sample, use a spade or small shovel to dig an
18-inch-deep hole at each transect station. Using the soil color chart,
determine the representative color of the soil at each transect
(including upland areas). Fill in your observations in the following
table:

> Station 1 Station 2 Station 3

Color

(from Color

Chart)

Smell

Degree of

wetness (wet,

damp, dry)

Texture

(clay, sandy,

sticky)

**Soil Survey Form**

> Station 1 Station 2 Station 3

Color

(from Color

Chart)

Smell

Degree of

wetness (wet,

damp, dry)

Texture

(clay, sandy,

sticky)

*Observations of wetland soil:*

Are there any defined layers to the wetland soil? If so, describe.

Is there mottling (concentrated areas of red or yellow soil)?

How deep do the plant roots go? \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_(Inches)

Is there standing water in the hole? \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_How many inches to
the surface?

\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_(Inches)

What organisms are living in the soil?

From *A World in Our Backyard*, with permission through the GA, Adopt a
Stream Program

**Hydrology Survey Form**

Name of Wetland:
\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Date: \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_

Answer the following questions. Depending on the time of year,
precipitation amounts, and various other factors, a wetland may appear
dry.

> Station 1 Station 2 Station 3

Depth of

surface Water

If no surface

water, is water

filling the hole?

Surface Water

Movement

(slow, fast,

none)

If no water,

name

hydrology

indicators (water

marks, drift lines,

sediment deposits,

water stained

leaves, drainage

patterns)

> Station 4 Station 5 Station 6

Depth of surface

Water

If no surface

water, is water

filling the hole?

Surface Water

Movement

(slow,fast, none)

If no water,

name hydrology

indicators (water

marks, drift lines,

sediment deposits,

water stained leaves,

drainage patterns)