Community Science Program Results & Info
Volunteers collect data on Stream Temperature, Bacteria, Basic Water Quality, and Aquatic Insects
Stream Temperature Results
Volunteers prep and deploy temperature logging devices in the summer following the same protocols used by the State of Maryland. Temperature data is collected from June 1 to August 31. The temperature data is then analyzed for comparison to the State criteria for each stream’s “Use Class Designation”. For example, there are three small watersheds withing the Antietam drainage area that are known for coldwater, trout-bearing waters (Use Class III). Average stream temperatures are not exceed 20C (68F) 90% of time during the summer, with the maximum water temperature not to exceed 23.9C.
Volunteers preparing loggers for deployment to streams
Recent Bacteria Data
From April - October, ACWA volunteers collect water samples monthly to measure levels of bacteria (e. coli) at 5 sites around the Antietam watershed (designated as “pins” on the map). In addition, volunteers with the Potomac Riverkeeper Network also collect samples for e. coli on a weekly basis from Memorial Day to Labor Day on the Antietam Creek mainstem and the Potomac River (represented as “square” map markers). The map reflects results from the monthly samples collected on the fourth Wednesday of the month from both programs. GREEN means results are within the EPA safe swimming Beach Action Values (BAV) of 235 MPN/100ml for E. coli. RED icons mean the results exceed the BAV. BLACK means no sample collected.
Learn more about recreating safely with natural waters in: Safe Swimming and Creek Bacteria article. For weekly PRKN bacteria results, visit: www.potomacriverkeepernetwork.org/
Water Quality Data
Our water quality data is uploaded to the Chesapeake Monitoring Cooperative’s (CMC) Chesapeake Data Network website.
