Methods
Group 1 streams, those judged to
have the highest potential for degradation, on the NY-PA border and the PA-MD border
were sampled four times a year for water quality parameters. Additionally, during
the summer sampling period physical habitat conditions were assessed and macroinvertebrates
were collected to assess the biological conditions of the stream. Group 2 streams,
those with moderate impacts, were sampled once annually for water quality, biological
assessment and habitat. Group 3 streams, those with the lowest potential for impacts
were sampled in May for macroinvertebrates and habitat was assessed.
Water samples were analyzed by the Pennsylvania Bureau of Laboratories for nutrient, metal, and sediment parameters. Field chemistry parameters were measured on site at the time of sampling. Macroinvertebrates were collected using a 1-meter square kick net; two kick screen samples were completed and composited. Physical habitat conditions at each sampling location are assessed by evaluating eleven parameters based on instream composition, channel morphology, riparian zone and bank conditions. Stream flow was gauged using standard USGS methods.
For more information on sampling methods and data analysis procedures, click here.
To view a copy of the Quality Assurance Project Plan, click here.
