Abstract #94

**Water quality improvement through international cooperation on the
Rhine**

**Peter G. Stoks**

RIWA / IAWR, Groenendael 6, Nieuwegein 3439 LV, The Netherlands

**Biographical Sketch of Author**

From January 1, 2003 Peter Stoks is director of the Rhine Water utility
association RIWA in the Netherlands, and acting director of the
International Association of Waterworks along the Rhine IAWR. Until 2003
he was Head of the Water Quality Division and Member of the Directory
Board of the Dutch WRK Water works. His main interests in Water
management include policy development, monitoring and assessment, and
early warning strategies.

**Abstract**

Historically, the water utilities along the Rhine river have had to deal
with serious pollution of their source water. This forced them to spend
energy and resources on the improvement of treatment techniques. In
addition, however, these utilities have effectively struggled to reduce
this pollution, by addressing water authorities, governments and
industry as well as by confrontation of polluters with the results of
joint utility monitoring and research programs. For this reason an
international cooperation among these utilities was started as early as
1970, leading to the formation of the IAWR, the International
Association of Waterworks along the Rhine. The IAWR is, today,
considered an NGO representing well over 25 million consumers and is
recognized as a serious player in the field of water management along
the entire river. One very effective instrument is the periodic
publication of a Rhine Memorandum stating water quality demands in order
to ensure the production of good drinking water using only simple
treatment.

Such Memoranda are presented to the Governments of the riparian states
as well as to industry and are brought to the attention of the general
public.

Even though the current water quality of the Rhine is fairly good, the
drinking water utilities still need highly advanced treatment
techniques, such as ozone, and activated carbon to assure an acceptable
drinking water quality. The ultimate goal of both RIWA and IAWR is to
achieve such a water quality that the Rhine river may be used as the
source for drinking water production using only simple techniques such
as bank filtration.

\* \* \* \* \*

Abstract #95

**Multi-Jurisdictional Issues In International Water Quality
Monitoring:**

**The Case of Lake Chad Basin of West Africa**

# Dr. Edmund Merem 

# 

# Department of Urban and Regional Planning Jackson State University Mississippi, 

# 3825 Ridgewood Road, Jackson, MS 39211 

# 

# Biographical Sketch of Author

Dr Edmund is an assistant professor with the Department of Urban and
Regional Planning at Jackson State University. He has nearly 10 years of
experience in the areas of Global environmental planning, national and
regional environmental accounting for oil and gas and agricultural land
use change, Hydro-politics of the Middle East and Africa. Edmund is an
experienced researcher, scholar, writer, analyst, and teacher on a
variety of domains such as natural resources management, rural planning
and development, sustainability, plan implementation and international
development. He has been quite active in environmental ethics; corporate
social responsibility, ecological economics, growth management,
environmental analysis and assessment, as well as community based
environmental initiatives. He is very fluent in a number of European and
African languages.

# 

# Abstract 

In the last decades of the twentieth century when countries of
Sub-Saharan Africa were busy forming their respective economic blocks
under the aegis of globalization, trans-boundary water quality
monitoring emerged as a key regional issue. Accordingly, the degradation
of water quality continues to erode the integrity of valuable ecosystems
and the well being of local communities in Sub-Saharan Africa along the
Lake Chad Basin. With the Chad Basin agreement entering its fourth
decade, signatories to the accord who pledged to meet the water needs of
their local population are today faced with unprecedented water quality
related problems.

Considering that several attempts have been made to remedy these
concerns over the years, coordinated monitoring of water quality across
the various political boundaries remains elusive. The current state of
affairs remain compounded due to a wide range of
multi-jurisdictional/international factors that are predicated upon
politics, environment, technology, demography, social-cultural setting
and economy. To address these issues, the paper suggests the adoption of
strategies based upon ecosystem approach for water protection, coherent
policy objectives, effective monitoring program, consultation among
stakeholders, financial consideration in water management and capacity
building. This paper examines the multi-jurisdictional and international
issues embedded in trans-boundary water quality monitoring with a
synthesis of the situation in the Lake Chad Basin of West Africa.
Several strategies for dealing with the problem are also provided.

\* \* \* \* \*

Abstract #96

## Canadian Water Quality Monitoring Networks

**Rob Kent, Janine Murray, Don Andersen, Chris Lochner, David Lam, and
Isaac Wong**

Environment Canada, National Water Research Institute,

351 boul St-Joseph, 8^th^ floor, Gatineau, PQ, K1A 0H3, Canada

**Biographical Sketch of Presenting Author**

Rob Kent has a B.Sc in Environmental Biology from Trent University and a
M.Sc. in Aquatic Toxicology from the University of Ottawa. He has worked
in the area of water quality and environmental pollution assessment and
management for the federal and provincial governments and consulting
sector for almost 20 years. He led the development of national water
quality guidelines and assessments under the
federal-provincial-territorial Canadian Council of Ministers of the
Environment (CCME) for 8 years, and has authored/co-authored over 35
publications in the areas of water quality, toxicology, guidelines and
risk assessments. Over the last 3 years, his new Branch in Environment
Canada has been spearheading the re-vitalization of water quality
monitoring networks in Canada and he currently directing the national
coordination and delivery of water quality monitoring programs and
activities.

**Abstract**

As public awareness increases, so do the concerns and expectations
relating to water quality and the overall health of Canadian freshwater
ecosystems. In Canada, responsibility for assessing and managing water
quality and aquatic ecosystem health is shared by all levels of
government, with significant contributions by industry, academia, and
non-government organizations. Due to this wide range of practitioners,
there are many water quality related programs, activities and
partnerships. However, there is currently no established national or
*Canada-wide* water quality monitoring program or network in Canada. As
a result, monitoring and surveillance activities are temporally and
spatially fragmented; individual networks remain unlinked; monitoring of
some key issues and stressors is lacking; and the data and information
generated by monitoring activities is often not fully exploited.
Consequently, water quality scientists and managers are seriously
challenged to provide a comprehensive, national picture of the status
and trends of water quality in Canada.

To address these critical issues, the establishment of a Canadian
Integrated Network on Water Quality Monitoring is being explored. The
aim of this approach would be to encourage and facilitate a *network of
networks* of strategic monitoring programs that are driven by current
scientific and policy questions, where information is collectively
shared. An integrated network should also provide a balance between the
generation of data and the timely interpretation and reporting of this
information to Canadians.

Partnerships are fundamental to building this *network of networks*
approach. The first step will be to bring together existing water
quality monitoring programs, such as those conducted by various levels
of government, industry, academia, and communities, and determine what
water quality monitoring is currently underway. A national steering body
could be established to oversee an analysis of national monitoring
priorities and gaps. This would be followed by an assessment of new
monitoring activities, capacities and technologies needed to address
current and emerging issues and threats, such as microbial pathogens,
pesticides, EDCs, pharmaceuticals, and GMOs.

The long-term goal is to achieve an integrated, national water quality
monitoring network that is responsive to a wide range of relevant water
quality issues and provides Canadians and decision-makers with timely,
integrated and comprehensive water quality information needed to make
informed decisions.

\* \* \* \* \*

Abstract #97

Water Quality Data Assessment in the Saale River Basin,

State of Thuringia, Germany

**Klaus Bongartz^1^, Timothy D. Steele^2^, and Karl-Erich
Lindenschmidt^3^**

^1^Friedrich-Schiller-University Jena, Loebdergraben 32, D-07743 Jena,
Germany

^2^TDS Consulting Inc. 595 West Meadow Rd., Evergreen, CO 80439 USA

^3^UFZ-PBFS, Brückstrasse 3a, D-39114 Magdeburg, Germany

**Biographical Sketches of Authors**

Dr. Bongartz has been involved with different aspects of hydrological
research and integrated water resources management since more than 10
years in Germany. Since 1997, when he went from the University of Bonn
to the University of Jena, and concentrates his professional research on
hydrological modeling and integrated water resources management focusing
especially on process regionalisation. During his professional career he
has been involved in two applied research projects as Partner and
coordinator. At the University he also did the job of lecturing
undergraduate students. So he combined teaching and working in a
successful research team quite successfully during the last years.
Within that period, he has developed cooperation with various research
teams in Germany and the U.S, China, India and the Philippines involving
the Environmental Research Center (UFZ) the Department of Agriculture
(USDA), the USGS, the IIT, and the Chinese Academy of Science
respectively. Recently Dr. Bongartz is involved in a European-Asian
teaching program for Integrated Watershed Management and in a European
Community Integrated Project dealing with IWRM in Europe and Africa.

Dr. Steele\'s career encompasses nearly 38 years in water-quality
hydrology and regional assessments of water resources. During over 24
years as a consultant, he has managed many multidisciplinary projects as
well as hydrologic baseline and modeling studies for water-resources
planning and management studies and various mining-related projects. He
has consulted on numerous projects dealing with hydrogeochemical
interactions, ground-water contamination, aquifer and lake restoration,
tailings disposal, hazardous waste/residuals management,
design/evaluation of hydrologic monitoring networks, statistical
analysis of hydrologic data, stream and subsurface water-quality
modeling, use-attainability analyses, water-quality stream standards and
total maximum daily loads (TMDLs) assessments, as well as regional
ground-water planning and international water-resources management. He
has given expert testimony or provided litigation support for a range of
topics of concern. His professional career has included overseas
experience in eleven foreign countries. Since 1999, Dr. Steele has
conducted block (short) courses dealing with concepts of integrated
watershed approaches -- the *3M* approach (*m*onitoring, *m*odelling,
and *m*anagement) at university institutes located in Darmstadt and
Jena, Germany.

**Abstract**

Over the past decade, hydrologic and water-quality data have been
collected at several sites within the Saale River basin, a tributary of
the Elbe River in eastern Germany. Primary emphasis has been placed upon
variables related to salinity. Historically, numerous health spas with
(sometimes) hot, saline springs as well as salt mining areas are located
within this river basin, resulting in contributions of salinity to the
main stem Saale River and one of its main tributaries the Unstrut.
Water-quality data, along with model applications, have been developed
for this basin in a multidisciplinary study by a consortium of German
Universities and Agencies. The purpose of this paper is to provide an
introduction to the water-quality related studies in the river basin, as
well as describing selected results using available hydrologic and
water-quality monitoring data.

\* \* \* \* \*

Abstract #98

## National Water-Quality Monitoring Programs of the U.S. Geological Survey

**Richard H. Coupe**

U.S Geological Survey, 308 South Airport Road, Pearl, MS 39208,
rhcoupe@usgs.gov

**Biographical Sketch of Author**

Richard Coupe is a Supervisory Hydrologist with the U.S. Geological
Survey in Pearl, Mississippi, and has worked for the Survey since 1980
in a variety of locations --Virginia, Illinois, and Mississippi. He is
currently the Chief of the Mississippi Embayment Study Unit of the
National Water Quality Assessment (NAWQA) Program and also serves as the
Mississippi Basin coordinator of the National Stream Quality Accounting
Network (NASQAN). Richard has an undergraduate degree in mathematics
from George Mason University, a Masters degree from Mississippi State
University, and is completing a PhD from Mississippi State University.

**Abstract**

During the 20^th^ century, the U.S. Geological Survey began collecting
data to evaluate the quality of water for the Nation's streams and
rivers. The earliest effort was in 1906-07 when water was collected and
analyzed from more than 150 streams and rivers across the Nation and
were used to calculate the flux of sediment and dissolved solids into
the Atlantic and Pacific oceans and the Gulf of Mexico. These data have
proved valuable in recent years in determining changes in water quality
throughout the 20^th^ century. Beginning in 1973, the U.S. Geological
Survey began operation of its National Stream Quality Accounting Network
(NASQAN): for the next 20 years water-quality data were collected and
analyzed from hundreds of streams and rivers as part of the NASQAN
Program. The objectives of the program were to (1) measure the quantity
and quality of stream water quality, (2) describe spatial variability in
stream water quality, (3) evaluate trends in water quality, and (4)
guide future water-quality assessments. The program was successful and
generated needed data to assess trends, to calculate the flux of
material from NASQAN basins, and to investigate relations between water
quality and streamflow. The NASQAN program was redesigned in 1995 and
now operates on the Nation's largest rivers (Colorado, Columbia,
Mississippi, Rio Grande, and the Yukon) with redefined objectives to (1)
characterize these large subbasins, (2) determine regional source areas,
and (3) assess the effects of human influences on observed
concentrations and fluxes.

\* \* \* \* \*

Abstract #99

Spatial Assessment and Optimization of the Synoptic Sampling Network in
the Great Smoky Mountains National Park using Multivariate Techniques

**Kenneth. R. Odom^1^ and R. Bruce Robinson^2^**

^1^City of Maryville, Tennessee, 416 W. Broadway, Maryville, TN 37801;
krodom@ci.maryville.tn.us

^2^Department of Civil and Environmental Engineering, University of
Tennessee, 73 Perkins Hall,

Knoxville, TN 37996-2010; rbr@utk.edu

### Biographical Sketches of Authors

Kenneth R. Odom is the Director of Engineering and Development for the
City of Maryville, Tennessee and is a registered professional engineer
in Tennessee and Alabama. He completed his Ph.D. in Civil Engineering in
August 2003 under the direction of the co-author, Dr. Bruce Robinson, at
the University of Tennessee, Knoxville. He previously worked as an
engineer for a Mobil Oil in Beaumont, Texas and a consulting engineer
for Almon Associates in Tuscaloosa, Alabama.

R. Bruce Robinson is a Professor of Civil and Environmental Engineering
at the University of Tennessee, Knoxville and is a registered
professional engineer in Tennessee and Iowa. He previously worked for
the Iowa Departmental of Environmental Quality, Iowa Department of
Transportation, and Iowa State University and has worked as a consultant
for several industries. He has also served as chair and member of
several national professional society committees including the ASCE
Water Supply Committee and AWWA\'s Small Systems Research Committee.

### Abstract

A multivariate analysis of the synoptic water quality monitoring network
in the Great Smoky Mountains National Park was performed to develop a
scheme for scoring the information content of each sampling site based
on cluster centroid distances. This information would be used to
spatially optimize the network using a simulated annealing (SA)
algorithm. Analysis methods included principal components analysis,
cluster analysis, and discriminant analysis. The data analyzed for the
83-site network included historical water quality data (pH, ANC,
conductivity, chloride, nitrate, sulfate, sodium, and potassium) and
watershed characteristics (geology, morphology, and vegetation). The
monitoring network was analyzed in each of the four categories (water
quality, geology, morphology, and vegetation) rather than performing the
analysis on the data as a whole so that a composite score could be
calculated for each sampling site. The composite score was then used to
apportion monetary benefits to each of the sampling sites in the SA
algorithm where the objective function was to maximize the net benefits.
One SA algorithm was written to optimize the network as a whole and a
second SA algorithm was written to generate an optimized network based
on a user-specified number of sampling sites in the final network. The
first SA algorithm identified an optimized network consisting of 67 of
the existing 83 sampling sites. The second SA algorithm bracketed the
same 67 sites in terms of maximized net benefit. Additionally, the
second SA algorithm also provided a tool for an ordered discontinuation
of sampling sites should this ever become necessary.

\* \* \* \* \*

Abstract #100

Building a Water Quality Monitoring Program for Alabama Lakes

Fred Leslie

Alabama Department of Environmental Management, Field Operations
Division, PO Box 301463, Montgomery, AL 36130-1463

Biographical Sketch of Author

Fred is Chief of the Aquatic Assessment Unit (AAU) of the Alabama
Department of Environmental Management (ADEM). The AAU is responsible
for the Ambient Trend Monitoring Program, Alabama Monitoring and
Assessment Program (ALAMAP), Nonpoint Source Assessment Program,
Reservoir Water Quality Monitoring Program, and Fish Tissue Monitoring
Program. From 1984 to 1989, he worked as a research assistant in the
Rivers and Reservoirs Laboratory of the Auburn University Department of
Fisheries, graduating with an M.S. in Fisheries Science. In 1989, he
began work for the ADEM, with primary involvement in the initiation and
development of the Reservoir Water Quality Monitoring and Fish Tissue
Monitoring Programs.

**Abstract**

In 1985, the need for information on the trophic state of Alabama lakes
led to an initial survey conducted by ADEM/USEPA. The survey established
limited baseline information and was used to rank lakes according to
trophic condition.

In 1989, Clean Lakes Program funds enabled the ADEM to conduct lake
assessments a second time. Trophic state index values from the 1989
study indicated potentially significant increases when compared to
values from 1985.

In 1990, the Reservoir Water Quality Monitoring (RWQM) Program was
initiated by ADEM. Through 1997, limited monitoring was conducted
regularly. Additional Clean Lakes funds enabled expansion of the Program
to include extensive monitoring of lakes for which water quality
concerns were greatest, and the inclusion of border lakes.

During 1997, intensive monitoring of lakes by basin was initiated.
Intensive monitoring consisted of monthly sampling of mainstem reservoir
and tributary embayment sites through the algal growing season.

Compliance monitoring of lakes for lake-specific nutrient criteria was
initiated in 2001, with intensive monitoring of many other lakes
conducted 2002-2004 to acquire additional data needed for future
criteria development.

With the demise of the Clean Lakes Program in 1997, continued
development of the RWQM program has been uncertain and funding an
unsteady patchwork. The program continues, though the future is by no
means clear as Section 319 funds decline. This presentation will examine
the path chosen by the ADEM in the development of this program, and the
many factors that have been influential.

\* \* \* \* \*

Abstract #101

## Continuous Water-Quality Monitoring in Karst Basins -- 

**Issues in Assessing Nitrate-Nitrogen and Dissolved Solutes
Concentrations**

**Joseph L. Taraba^1^ and Alex W. Fogle^2^**

^1^Professor and ^2^Hydrologist, Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering
Department, C.E. Barnhart Bldg, University of Kentucky, Lexington, KY
50446-0276

**Biographical Sketches of Authors**

Joseph Taraba is an extension specialist and researcher in areas of
agricultural waste management, qroundwater quality and more recently
watershed surface water quality monitoring strategies for assessment of
agricultural BMP implementation in karst basins.

Alex Fogle is a hydrologist for the Kentucky Geological Survey and has
been working within the Biosystems and Agricultural Engineering
Department. Since 1995, he has been overseen the Animal Research Center
water quality monitoring network and maintained the database. He is
performing data analysis and writing research reports and publications.

**Abstract**

The assessment of the Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) and the
effectiveness of Best Management Practices (BMPs) on water quality in
watersheds require the accurate measurement of constituent concentration
and stream flow. Due to the volatile nature of stream flow and
constituent concentration in upland watersheds, and especially in karst
basins, interest in continuous water-quality monitoring has increased.
Continuous flow measurement has been relatively simple and inexpensive
to accomplish in comparison with the continuous measurement of the
concentration of constituents such as Nitrate-Nitrogen.

Although expensive, continuous concentration monitoring allows
researchers and planners to assess not only yearly and seasonal
variations, but sub-seasonal variations as small as diurnal changes in
concentration. The ability to monitor these types of variations can shed
light on the dynamics of constituent generation and fate. Continuous
monitoring can also help ascertain whether coarser sampling strategies
such as biweekly, monthly, and even storm sampling are adequate or
inadequate for TMDL and BMP analyses.

Given the advantages of continuous monitoring, a major issue arises
around the reliability of certain ion-specific probes and the aspects of
QA/QC of data generated by these probes. These issues are important but
can be adequately addressed by proper procedures.

Based on affirming probe reliability, our suggests that diurnal patterns
(the timing of diurnal concentration max/mins and amplitudes) may be
correlated to stream status and ecosystem equilibrium as the stream
corridor recovers from a disturbance or the landuse within a stream
corridor shifts.

\* \* \* \* \*

Abstract #102

## Back to Basics -- Using Hydrology to Communicate Data as Information

**Bruce Cleland**

America's Clean Water Foundation, 750 First Street NE -- Suite 1030,
Washington, DC 20002, b.cleland@acwf.org

### Biographical Sketch of Author

Bruce Cleland is a TMDL "Circuit Rider" for the Clean Water Foundation,
where he specializes in providing detailed technical assistance,
technical education, and information transfer to States to assist them
in their efforts to develop TMDLs. He is currently on loan to ACWF from
EPA's Seattle Office where he worked in the water quality program,
including over 10 years as the Region's TMDL Coordinator. At Region 10,
Bruce was also involved with the ambient water quality monitoring
program, the nonpoint source program, and the permits / compliance
program.

### Abstract

With the wide array of issues facing water quality managers, limited
resources, and the complex, inter-related nature of water programs --
the "two Ps": practical approaches and partnerships -- are critical to
successful watershed planning and implementation. Dependable tools are
needed, which promote effective communication between analysts, planners
and implementers, so that actions will lead to measurable water quality
improvements. Over the past several years, basic hydrology in the form
of flow duration curves has been used to support the development of
TMDLs.

Flow duration curve analysis identifies intervals, which can be used as
a general indicator of hydrologic condition (i.e. wet versus dry and to
what degree). Duration curves help refine assessments by expanding the
characterization of water quality concerns, linking concerns to key
watershed processes, and prioritizing source evaluation efforts. The
extended use of monitoring information using duration curves offers an
opportunity for enhanced targeting, both in field investigation efforts
and implementation planning.

Duration curves provide another way of presenting water quality data,
which characterizes concerns and describes patterns associated with
impairments. This framework can help elevate the importance of
monitoring information to stakeholders, which in turn can encourage
locally driven data collection efforts (e.g. through watershed groups,
conservation districts, point sources). As an assessment and
communication tool, duration curves can also help narrow potential
debates, as well as inform the public and stakeholders so they become
engaged in efforts to improve water quality. This presentation will use
several examples to illustrate opportunities where duration curves can
strengthen watershed assessments and enhance the water quality
management process.

\* \* \* \* \*

Abstract #103

## Interpretation of Water-Quality Data Using Ion-Pair Relationships

**Tim Kresse and John Fazio**

Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality

### Biographical Sketches of Authors

Tim Kresse is the Ground-Water Protection Program manager in the Water
Division of the Arkansas Dept. of Environmental Quality. Mr. Kresse
received his B.S. and M.S. in geology at the University of Arkansas in
Fayetteville, is a professional geologist, and has worked in the
water-quality field within both the private consulting and state
government arenas for more than 18 years. He has authored or co-authored
more than 30 professional papers and has presented numerous papers at
professional seminars. His area of interest resides primarily in
geochemistry and water-quality interpretation.

John Fazio is a Geologist in the Planning Branch of the Water Division
of the Arkansas Department of Environmental Quality. Mr. Fazio worked
for 6 years in the Underground Storage Tank Program at ADEQ, and for the
past four years has been managing the Ambient Ground-Water Monitoring
Program in the Water Division. He has co-authored several professional
papers and has been involved in several 319 Nonpoint Source
investigations. His areas of interest include geohydrology and
water-quality interpretation. Mr. Fazio received his B.S. Degree in
Geology from the University of Arkansas, and his post-graduate studies
focused on sedimentology.

### Abstract

In past years, water-quality data collected by both federal and state
agencies focused on ground-water quality in reference to drinking water
standards, with little attention toward identifying geochemical data
trends. These early reports often included some basic descriptive
statistics, Piper diagrams, and identification of general water type.
The use of graphical analysis of ion-pair relationships can enrich
water-quality reports by providing underlying links to geochemical
processes influencing geochemical evolution and redox conditions of
ground water along identified and/or inferred flow paths.

Ion-pair relationships can be used in quality control of analyses, which
generally requires conductance, TDS, and the major ions contributing to
TDS. Ion-pair relationships, together with simple statistical analyses,
also have been used to obtain strong corollary evidence for the
geochemical evolution of ground water, in addition to identifying
sources of elevated (\>10 µg/L) arsenic, in the alluvial aquifer in
eastern Arkansas. The data can be expressed in various units (i.e.,
mg/L, meq/L, etc.) depending on the relationships under investigation.
The use of data in equivalent concentrations often provides far more
beneficial results over the use of concentrations by weight, especially
for use in assessing the stoichiometry involved in mineral dissolution
and precipitation, cation exchange, and other processes affecting the
geochemical evolution of ground water. The identification of chemical
sources and sinks affecting ground-water geochemistry provides a
framework for future geochemical modeling or prioritizing locations for
site-specific investigations.

\* \* \* \* \*

Abstract #104

## Combining Observed Water-Quality Variables for Trend Analysis

**C.E. Zipper^1^ and G.I. Holtzman^2^**

^1^Department of Crop and Soil Environmental Sciences and ^2^Department
of Statistics;

Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University; Blacksburg, VA
24061

**Biographical Sketches of Authors**

Carl E. Zipper has been a member of the Virginia Tech faculty at since
1986. Current activities are in the areas of mine restoration, water
quality, and watershed management. He serves as an Extension Specialist,
researcher, and instructor within the Department of Crop and Soil
Environmental Sciences. His instructional activities include a
junior-level course, Fundamentals of Environmental Science, since 1989,
and leadership of his department's Graduate Seminar since 2002. He
serves as Director of the Powell River Project, a Virginia Tech program
that conducts research and education to address coal mine restoration.
He served as Associate Director of the Virginia Center for Coal and
Energy Research, which conducts research and disseminates information on
energy‑related issues, from 1989 through 2003.

Golde Ivan Holtzman is an associate professor in Virginia Tech's
Department of Statistics. He has been a member of the Virginia Tech
faculty since 1980. He retains research interests in the area of
biomathematics, his Ph.D. area, and provides statistical consulting to
research in departments throughout the university with emphases on
natural resource and medical applications. He has served as president of
the Virginia Academy of Science, and as chair of the ASA Committee on
Professional Ethics. Within the department he has served as graduate
program director, acting department head, and director of the
Statistical Consulting Center. Classes he has taught recently include
Biometry, Nonparametric Methods, and Introductory Statistics.

**Abstract**

Water-quality trend analysis is being used increasingly as a scientific
and public policy analysis tool. The seasonal Kendall technique is a
common water-quality trend analysis procedure. When conducting trend
analyses of water-quality data prepared for other purposes, it can be
advantageous to aggregate observed variables so as to construct and
analyze for trend a combined variable that has not been observed
directly. Such analyses are hindered when one or more (but not all) of
the observed variables being combined are censored (reported as being
below an analytical detection limit); when the data series being
combined include variations in censoring levels; and/or the variables
being combined have been analyzed and recorded at differing levels of
precision.

A method for combining observed values and analyzing the resultant
aggregated value for trend using the seasonal Kendall technique, which
accommodates these data characteristics, is described and demonstrated
through application to Virginia water quality nitrogen data collected
from 157 locations by Virginia Department of Environmental Quality over
the 1978 -- 95 time period. Variables of interest were nitrate-nitrite N
(NN), total Kjeldahl N (TKN), and total N (TN) concentrations. TN was
not measured directly, but was calculated by combining the NN and TKN
forms. NN was calculated by combining measured values of nitrate-N and
nitrite-N, where both components were available but NN was not measured
directly. Seasonal and overall TN medians were calculated and allocated
among NN and TKN components, and analyzed statistically for differences
among ecoregions. NN, TKN, and TN trends were analyzed for each location
using seasonal Kendall analysis, by ecoregion and for the state as a
whole. The distribution of N among NN and TKN forms varies both
seasonally and regionally. TN concentrations were found to be increasing
in 6 of the state's 7 ecoregions over the study period, with the
strongest increases occurring as TKN and in the state's eastern
portions.

\* \* \* \* \*

Abstract #105

## Beyond Data Download: Data Analysis Tools

**E. Johnson^1^, P. Pacheco^2^, and N. Parikh^2^ , and J. Hameedi^1^**

^1^NOAA's National Ocean Service, N/SCI-1, 1305 East West Hwy., Silver
Spring, MD 20910

^2^NOAA's National Ocean Service, N/MB72, 1305 East West Hwy., Silver
Spring, MD 20910

**Biographical Sketches of Authors**

Edward Johnson is an environmental scientist in the National Centers for
Coastal Ocean Science of NOAA's National Ocean Service with training and
experience in environmental chemistry and toxicology. He joined the
Center for Coastal Monitoring and Assessment in 1997 after twelve years
with the USDA's Agricultural Research Service. Since moving to NOAA he
has been active with the National Status and Trends Program particularly
the Mussel Watch and Bioeffects Assessment Projects.

Percy Pacheco is an environmental engineer with the Special Projects in
NOAA's Management and Budget Office. His responsibilities have been
instrumental in the successful planning, design and data analysis of
coastal pollution assessment projects. Percy is skilled in data
synthesis and assessment, and advanced technical services (e.g., GIS and
web mapping, database development, and information visualization tools).
Nipa Parikh, also with the Special Projects Office is a skilled GIS
specialist and expert computer programmer in the support and development
of several applications in her division.

Jawed Hameedi is manager of NOAA's National Status and Trends Program, a
comprehensive monitoring and assessment program to observe and report on
coastal contamination and its associated biological effects in U.S.
coastal waters and estuaries. The program also develops environmental
indicators, guidelines, models and other diagnostic tools to infer the
severity of contamination, forecast contaminant levels, and evaluate the
performance of governmental programs to abate degradation of coastal
ecosystems. Prior to joining NOAA, he worked in private industry and a
university on energy and environmental sciences.

**Abstract**

The purpose of NOAA's thematic website is to provide easy access to data
and information in a way that facilitates environmental assessment and
decision making. Data from three long-term projects of the National
Status and Trends Program (NS&T) are being compiled and managed to make
them available over the Internet in a distributed data model system. The
three projects are Benthic Surveillance Project, Mussel Watch Project,
and Bioeffects Assessment Project.

The foundation of the web capabilities are built on three relational
databases, one for each of the three major project areas of NS&T. These
databases are built with the SAS software (SAS Institute, Cary, NC).
Presently the databases are accessed with Active Server Pages (ASP)
software. Enhancements are under way that utilize SAS web application
software to access the SAS databases and dynamically produce web pages
of information requested by the user. Data mapping tools allow the user
to display the sampling locations on to overlay other geo-referenced
data published on the web such as wastewater discharge locations, or
satellite imagery. These web-based data analysis and display tools and
protocols operate in a distributed information system environment (as
opposed to a centralized data system) to improve data retrieval,
mapping, analysis, assessments, comparative studies, and visualization
capabilities for users with different levels of data and analysis needs.
This web site is intended to also increase awareness and understanding
of specific coastal issues (e.g., water quality) so that the coastal
management community and the interested public can make more informed
decisions about solutions to coastal resource use issues, many of which
are of national and international significance.

\* \* \* \* \*

Abstract #106

## Compliance Monitoring in a Performance Based Environment

**Herbert J. Brass**

US EPA, Office of Water/OGWDW, MC 140, 26 West ML King Drive,
Cincinnati, OH 45268

**Biographical Sketch of Author**

Herb Brass is the Analytical Methods Team Leader in USEPA's Office of
Ground Water and Drinking Water. He is the Co-Chair of the Methods and
Data Comparability Board, a sub-group of the National Water Quality
Monitoring Council, whose goal is to achieve comparability, so that data
can be assessed across programs and organizations. He also coordinates
EPA's drinking water alternative test procedure program that evaluates
methods for use in compliance monitoring.

# Abstract

A performance based, or flexible, approach to analytical measurements
permits the use of any scientifically appropriate method that
demonstrates the ability to meet established method performance criteria
(e.g., accuracy sensitivity, bias, precision) and complies with
specified data quality needs or requirements. Key aspects of a
performance-based system include; a) the need to establish concise
measurement quality objectives (MQOs) or data quality objectives (DQOs)
for each parameter reported; b) the need for demonstrated methods
capable of meeting these MQOs or DQOs or regulatory limits; c) the need
for adequate reference materials to assist laboratories in demonstrating
the appropriateness of a given method; d) the need for laboratories to
adequately document method performance, and e) the successful completion
of a pilot program to demonstrate the advantages and viability of a
performance-based approach.

There are significant issues concerning how such an approach would be
implemented in compliance monitoring programs. The training requirements
are extensive due to the diversity of programs and varying data
requirements. Adequate training and education of data generators,
auditors, and users is central to the successful implementation of a
performance-based system. Mechanisms for determining liability must be
established, and compliance data must be recognized in a court of law.

EPA approaches to a performance based system, in a compliance setting,
include EPA's so-called streamlining initiative that includes validation
requirements for new and modified methods and the development of new
methods according to a protocol where validation is included in the
methods development process.

\* \* \* \* \*

Abstract #107

**Can The Laboratory Meet My Monitoring DQO's?**

#### Methods for Assessment of Laboratory Capabilities and Data Quality Analysis

**Dennis J. McChesney**

USEPA Region 2/DECA/PTSB, 2890 Woodbridge Ave., Edison, NJ 08837-3679

### Biographical Sketch of Author

Dennis McChesney is an environmental scientist, currently in the
Division of Enforcement and Compliance Assistance, at U.S. EPA Region 2.
Until recently, Dennis was a hydrologist in Region 2\'s Division of
Environmental Science and Assessment, where he planned and implemented
monitoring projects in New York, New Jersey, and Puerto Rico, and
oversaw quality management for the water programs throughout the Region.
His previous experience was in the drinking water/ groundwater programs
where he focused on groundwater protection and remediation. Dennis
previously served as co-chair of EPA's Groundwater Protection Technical
Forum, and as a member of the Methods and Data Comparability Board where
he chaired the Board's Outreach Workgroup. Dennis earned a B.S. in
Biology from the University of San Francisco, an M.B.A. from Fairleigh
Dickinson University, and M.S. in Environmental Sciences from Rutgers
University, where he is currently a doctoral candidate.

### Abstract 

The production of data which meets a user's direct needs, determined
through development of

a project's data quality objectives (DQO's), is essential to a
monitoring project's success. Production of data which can be compared
to other data, or meet other needs, is increasingly recognized as
crucial to efficient, effective water quality evaluations. A cornerstone
of the project implementation process is selection of a laboratory to
analyze project samples. Private sector and government laboratories
usually offer services for analytes of interest. However, the actual
methods employed, laboratory instrument capabilities, and the analyst's
training and experience at a particular laboratory can, and
unfortunately does, often result in acquisition of data which fails to
meet the project DQO's. Consequently, an evaluation of a laboratory's
capabilities is a critical element in assessing whether to utilize their
services. In this presentation, a process for selecting laboratories
will be described where candidate laboratories provide potential clients
with an Initial Demonstrations of Capability (IDC). The IDC is designed
to provide information to show that the laboratory has the technical
capability to meet the project DQO's under the conditions expected
during the monitoring. The sample analysis data required in an IDC,
determinations of the limits of data acceptability, assessment of IDC
data, and ranking of multiple laboratories will be discussed. Finally,
methods to employ in evaluation of project data will be presented,
including format of the laboratories reports, and interpretation and
integration of QC sample results to assess the overall quality of the
monitoring data.

\* \* \* \* \*

Abstract #108

**The DQO/MQO Process for Comparability in Monitoring:**

**Nitrate as an Example**

**Katherine T. Alben^1^, Jerry Diamond^2^, Lawrence H. Keith^3^, Herbert
J. Brass^4^**

^1^New York State Dept. of Health, Albany, NY 12201-0509

^2^Tetra Tech, Inc., 10045 Red Run Blvd., Suite 110, Owings Mills, MD
21117

^3^Instant Reference Sources, Inc., 329 Claiborne Way, Monroe, GA
30655-8406

### ^4^US EPA, Office of Water/OGWDW, MC 140, 26 West ML King Drive, Cincinnati, OH 45268

## 

## Biographical Sketches of Authors

Katherine Alben is a Research Scientist at New York State Dept. of
Health and a faculty member in the Dept. of Environmental Health and
Toxicology, State University of New York at Albany. For 25 years, she
has contributed to development of analytical methods, primarily to
assess water quality. She co-chairs the MDCB Biology Workgroup, which
has helped to prepare biological methods for NEMI.

Jerry Diamond is a Director of Tetra Tech's Baltimore office, where he
manages toxicological and biological monitoring projects for a variety
of sponsors. He has been providing EPA contract support to the Methods
Board for the past 8 years.

Larry Keith chairs the NEMI workgroup and has over 35 years of
experience with developing and using environmental methods. His current
work involves developing an expert system for systematic planning with
environmental monitoring and private consulting through Instant
Reference Sources, Inc.

Herb Brass is the Analytical Methods Team Leader in the Office of Ground
Water and Drinking Water at the USEPA and has over 25 years of
experience in managing environmental methods and monitoring programs. He
is also Co-Chair of the Methods and Data Comparability Board (MDCB)
under whose auspices NEMI is being developed.

## Abstract

The DQO/MQO process is a systematic, iterative, and planning process,
based on the scientific method (US EPA 1994, 2000). This paper
illustrates the DQO/MQO process, using nitrate to provide a focused case
study:

1)  Development of historical perspective: site-specific data for
    nitrate are analyzed, using examples from the USGS National Water
    Information System (NWIS: www.waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis/) and the
    classic statistical methods of interpretation for comparing data

2)  Development of DQOs and MQOs: side-by-side comparisons of DQO/MQO
    criteria are made for two hypothetical monitoring scenarios,
    regulatory versus ambient monitoring, as suggested by the historical
    data for nitrate

3)  Method selection: appropriate choices for the compliance and ambient
    monitoring scenarios are discussed, using nitrate methods from the
    National Environmental Monitoring Index (NEMI www.nemi.gov), an
    online compendium of analytical methods for water quality monitoring
    (Peters et al 2000, Brass et al 2000)

The results of this exercise show how the comparability of methods and
data is determined by the choice of DQO/MQOs and corresponding project
design. In the examples given, it is somewhat surprising to find that
DQO/MQOs and criteria for establishing the comparability of methods and
data are more restrictive for the ambient monitoring scenario, than for
the compliance monitoring scenario.

\* \* \* \* \*

Abstract #109

Ensuring Data and Information Comparability Using Expert Systems

**Lawrence H. Keith ^1^, Herbert J. Brass^2^, and Daniel J.
Sullivan^3^**

^1^Instant Reference Sources, Inc., 329 Claiborne Way, Monroe, GA
30655-8406

**^2^**U. S. EPA, Office of Groundwater and Drinking Water, Technical
Support Center,

26 W. Martin Luther King Dr., Cincinnati, OH 45268

**^3^**U.S.G.S. -- WRD, 8505 Research Way, Middleton, WI 53562

**Biographical Sketches of Authors**

Lawrence H. Keith has over 35 years of experience in environmental
sampling and analysis including developing new methods, validating
methods, and applying them to many specific projects. He also is past
co-chair of the National Environmental Monitoring Index (NEMI) workgroup
and contributes to the development of NEMI-CBR, a database of methods
for chemical, biological, and radiological (CBR) methods. He began
working with expert systems 20 years ago and is currently developing the
CBR Methods Advisor for EPA's Water Security Division.

Herbert J. Brass is the Analytical Methods Team Leader in USEPA's Office
of Ground Water and Drinking Water. He is the Co-Chair of the Methods
and Data Comparability Board, a sub-group of the National Water Quality
Monitoring Council, whose goal is to achieve comparability, so that data
can be assessed across programs and organizations. He also coordinates
EPA's drinking water alternative test procedure program that evaluates
methods for use in compliance monitoring.

Daniel J. Sullivan is a Hydrologist with the USGS with a background in
water quality and information technology for Internet applications. He
is currently the co-chair and database developer for NEMI, as well as
Acting Co-Chair for the Methods and Data Comparability Board. He is also
the Lead Scientist for the Upper Mississippi River, Ohio, and Great
Lakes River Basin Regional Synthesis Team for the National Water-Quality
Assessment Program.

**Abstract**

An "expert system" is an interactive computer program that emulates a
human expert's decision-making process in a particular domain of
knowledge. Environmental monitoring programs are often complex and
require detailed planning such as designing to meet specific objectives,
selecting sampling and analytical methods, determining what and how many
QA and QC samples are needed, determining where to sample and how many
samples to analyze, deciding how to compile and manage the data and then
how to assess and interpret it, and finally, how to convey results and
findings. The Environmental Monitoring and Measurement Advisor (EMMA) is
an expert system that provides consistent and detailed advice for
designing programs and selecting methods for field and laboratory data.
The latter advice draws from the National Environmental Methods Index
(NEMI) and, through a cooperative research and development agreement
(CRADA) with US EPA and USGS, will be linked directly to the NEMI
database. The advantages of extending programming and advice from an
expert system such as EMMA to the complete Water Monitoring Framework
will be presented.

\* \* \* \* \*

Abstract #110

A Comparative Analysis of Water Quality Monitoring Programs in the
Southeast: Lessons for Tennessee

**Ruth Anne Hanahan^1^ and Caitlin Cottrill^2^**

^1^Ruth Anne Hanahan, Senior Research Associate, Tennessee Water
Resources Research Center at the University of Tennessee, 311 Conference
Center, Knoxville, TN 37996, rhanahan@utk.edu

^2^Caitlin Cottrill, Transportation Planner, Mid-America Regional
Council, 600 Broadway, Suite 300,

Kansas City, MO 64105, ccottrill@marc.org

### Biographical Sketches of Authors

Ruth Anne Hanahan is a Senior Research Associate at the TN Water
Resources Research Center (TN WRRC) located at the University of
Tennessee. Over the past six years, her primary focus has been to build
and manage the Knox County Adopt-A-Watershed Program. She conducts the
program on behalf of the Water Quality Forum, a consortium dedicated to
protecting and improving regional water quality. In addition to
coordinating this hands-on environmental education program for the
Forum, Ruth Anne has been integral in assisting with the development of
other Forum educational/community outreach and technical projects
including the recently established Adopt-A-Stream Program.

Caitlin Cottrill was employed as a Graduate Research Assistant at the TN
WRRC while receiving her master's degree in urban planning from the
University of Tennessee. She has participated in a number of planning
activities involving environmental monitoring and planning for
sustainable development. Caitlin is currently employed as a
transportation planner at the Mid-America Regional Council in Kansas
City, Missouri.

### Abstract

The upsurge of state volunteer monitoring programs across the nation has
been heralded as a way for citizens to turn knowledge into action
including empowering them to make informed decisions and involving them
in activities that directly protect state waterways. Tennessee does not
currently have a statewide volunteer monitoring program, although there
has been some preliminary discussion within the state's nonpoint source
program to sponsor one. Building on this national movement and state
interest, the TN Water Resources Research Center at the University of
Tennessee has recently completed a study comparing three southeastern
statewide volunteer monitoring programs, including Alabama Water Watch,
Kentucky Water Watch and Georgia Adopt-A-Stream. The purpose of this
comparative analysis was to examine how these programs have been
implemented and learn from their experiences so that we could recommend
to Tennessee policy decision makers and other stakeholders possible
approaches to establishing such a program here in our state.

In order to provide a more substantive set of recommendations, we were
also interested in acquiring information on the perceptions of the
general benefits and limitations of volunteer monitoring. To that end,
we surveyed volunteer monitors participating in the three state programs
as well those in Tennessee who have an interest ("a stake") in expanding
volunteer monitoring in the state. It is our hope that this study and
its accompanying set of recommendations will advance a productive
dialogue among Tennessee stakeholders on the viability of initiating a
statewide volunteer monitoring program including actions necessary to
make it happen.

\* \* \* \* \*

Abstract #111

## Meeting Needs of Volunteers Using Trained Trainers

**Chris Riggert and Tim Rielly**

Missouri Department of Conservation, P.O. Box 180 Jefferson City, MO
65102-0180

**Biographical Sketches of Authors**

Chris Riggert is a streams biologist with Missouri Department of
Conservation. He has been working in water quality issues for seven
years with a varied background in fisheries, crayfish studies, and
Volunteer Water Quality Monitoring. Chris works with all facets of the
VWQM Program such as training, database management, and development of
new education materials. He also coordinates the Stash Your Trash
Program for the Stream Team Program which provides over 300,000 bags to
canoe liveries per year. He is very energetic and will do anything for a
fishing trip.

Tim Rielly is streams biologist with Missouri Department of
Conservation. For the past two years he has been the coordinator of the
Volunteer Water Quality Monitoring (VWQM) Program, which is part of the
Missouri Stream Team Program. Previously, Tim was employed with Missouri
Department of Natural Resources and coordinated Quality/Assurance
Quality Control for the VWQM Program. In addition, he conducted special
water quality monitoring projects for the state unconnected to volunteer
monitoring. Tim has over 10 years experience in water quality monitoring
and is experienced in all monitoring and sampling for surface water,
specializing in streams. Tim is an experienced trainer, speaker, and
technical writer, and has worked with agencies of all levels to improve
water quality conditions.

**Abstract**

The Volunteer Water Quality Monitoring Program (VWQM Program) is a part
of the Missouri STREAM TEAM Program which, is a multi-agency sponsored
water quality monitoring program formed for citizens in Missouri with an
interest in water quality. The VWQM Program is a free training program
open to anyone and teaches volunteers to monitor the water of
Missouri\'s rivers and streams. The number one priority is education
with data as a close second. The program has evolved to currently offer
four levels of training, an Intro course, Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3.
Each course or \"Level\" builds upon the previous course. Since its
inception in 1993, the VWQM Program has grown exponentially;
Introductory VWQM workshops are full or have waiting lists. While the
Program continues to grow, staff levels have remained static due to
budgetary requirements. As a result, VWQM Program staff had to be
creative to meet the demand for training. As a solution, VWQM Program
staff promoted and held several "Train the Trainers" workshops designed
to train selected people to assist with teaching water quality
workshops. Trainers were selected from a pool of dedicated volunteers,
teachers and agency personnel that have all attended VWQM workshops
prior to training. Trainers have helped to reduce staff time by reducing
the amount of staff needed to teach a workshop. Trainers are beneficial
to the Program by enabling staff by to meet the demand for training by
the public and offering expanded workshop schedules. While there are
many more benefits to using trainers there can be some draw backs such
as; scheduling, data quality, consistency and, keeping them on track
with presentations. How do you keep them on track and follow through?

\* \* \* \* \*

Abstract #112

## Sustaining A Successful Monitoring Program

**Ginger North**

Delaware Nature Society, P.O. Box #700, Hockessin, DE 19707

### Biographical Sketch of Author

Ginger first joined the Delaware Nature Society as a Naturalist for the
Education Department at Ashland in 1992 and taught a variety of programs
for them. She has worked with the Delaware Stream Watch program in the
Natural Resource Conservation department since 1995, first as the
Technical Monitoring Assistant, then as Stream Watch Assistant
Coordinator, and most recently as the Stream Watch Coordinator.

She received a Master of Science degree in Genetics from the University
of Delaware, and a Bachelor of Science degree in Biology/Marine Biology
from the University of Long Island. She taught biology laboratories for
four years at the University of Delaware. She also has an extensive
background in Quality Control, both in a clinical microbiology
laboratory and in a hospital endocrinology laboratory.

### Abstract 

What does it take to maintain a successful monitoring program? Join us
for one perspective from a volunteer monitoring program staring its 19th
year. Delaware Stream Watch is a grassroots volunteer waterway
protection program focusing on citizen monitoring, education, and
advocacy. Founded in 1985 as a partnership between the Delaware Nature
Society and the Division of Water Resources of the Delaware Department
of Natural Resources and Environmental Control (DNREC), it is one of the
oldest statewide volunteer water quality monitoring programs in the
nation, and one of the few joint efforts between a state agency and a
non-profit environmental organization. Delaware Stream Watch is
recognized as a national example of the acceptance and use of volunteer
data by state and federal agencies in the Total Maximum Daily Load
(TMDL) modeling process. This presentation will focus on the successes
and challenges in sustaining the Delaware Stream Watch program,
specifically volunteer retention, quality assurance/control for data
collection, use of volunteer data, and maintaining strong partnerships
with state agencies.

\* \* \* \* \*

Abstract #113

## Community-based Water Monitoring: A Decade of Global Experiences

**William G. Deutsch**

Department of Fisheries and Allied Aquacultures, 203 Swingle Hall,
Auburn University, AL 36832

### Biographical Sketch of Author

Bill Deutsch has degrees in Zoology, Biology, Anthropology and Aquatic
Ecology and has been a Research Fellow in the Department of Fisheries
and Allied Aquacultures at Auburn University for 16 years. Prior to
that, he worked 11 years as a Research Biologist and Director of Aquatic
Research for private environmental consultants in Pennsylvania. He has
been the Program Manager for Alabama Water Watch since it began in 1992,
and directs Global Water Watch through AU's International Center for
Aquaculture and Aquatic Environments.

### Abstract

With partnerships and funding from numerous state and federal agencies
and nongovernmental organizations, Auburn University has initiated
community-based water monitoring projects (CBWM) in Alabama, the
Philippines, Ecuador, Brazil and Thailand. Participants range from U.S.
middle class, lakefront property owners to peasant farmers of the upland
tropics. More than 10 years of experience with these efforts has led to
the development of a CBWM model designed for the practitioner. The model
includes the process of organizing groups and selecting appropriate
technologies, collecting and managing credible data, and data-to-action
strategies that lead to sustainable projects and improved watershed
management. Each project generated lessons that were shared among all,
and a Global Water Watch network of monitoring groups is expanding with
indigenous leadership.

\* \* \* \* \*