How are these data used?
Water samples are used to collect data for four chemical and two human health indicators.
Nitrogen, like phosphorus, is an essential nutrient found in rivers and streams. Excess nitrogen can stimulate overgrowth of algae, cyanobacteria (which can produce toxins), and aquatic plants. These may result in algal blooms, low dissolved oxygen levels or degraded conditions for macroinvertebrates and other aquatic life.
Where are nitrogen samples collected?
at the midpoint of the
sample reach.
To learn more, see the
NRSA Field Operations Manual.