From the OEPA... "Level 2 data can be used to evaluate the effectiveness of pollution controls, to conduct initial screening of water quality conditions, and to promote public awareness and education about surface waters of the state. Level 2 groups are often in the position to perform the valuable function of monitoring long term surface water quality trends in a watershed where Ohio EPA may not have the resources to frequently revisit a particular area."
The best protection for our waterways can only be gained through understanding them, both at this present moment and historically. Since 2010, RU's water quality monitoring program has collected more than 60 stream samples every month, March - November, encompassing the lower Great Miami and nearly every one of its tributaries. The samples are analyzed by volunteers who are trained and overseen by well qualified professionals in related fields. The lab is led by Dr. Mike Miller, Professor Emeritus, Biology, University of Cincinnati. Quality controls are overseen by the Hamilton County Conservation District. RU WQM is certified as a Level II Credible Data program by the Ohio Environmental Protection Agency.
Explore a Google Map of the RU WQM sampling sites.
The success of RU WQM is made possible by the generosity of our volunteers and our community partners. First, the University of Cincinnati and the UC Center for Field Studies for the contribution of their beautiful space. Longterm contributors Hamilton County Conservation District, Chevron, and Oxbow, Inc have given the program the support it has needed from its inception. Finally, the OEPA and the Ohio Environmental Education Fund for the generous grants to give us the additional support we need to bring the program, the data, and the outreach to new levels.
Get the historical and geological "Facts on the Great Miami River Basin"!
Many students and young people have used their experience with the water quality monitoring as a stepping stone to further opportunities. See the great things our volunteers are doing.
Our dataset is used for research, informing decision-making, and identifying point-source pollutants. Find here some of the many ways our data were employed successfully.
Interested in volunteering? Find everything you need to know here! Our volunteers are great people doing important work. Volunteering for RU is an enjoyable and rewarding experience.
