How's My Waterway - Water Monitoring Report

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Glossary

Definition
Abnormal flow (hydrologic alteration) refers to changes in river or stream volume caused by removing water for irrigation or industrial use, drinking water supply, and by alterations from dams to hold and release water on a man-made cycle. Reduced flow can lower oxygen levels, raise water temperatures, cause build-up of sediment and pollutants, destroy aquatic wildlife habitat, and degrade swimming, boating, and fishing. In some cases abnormal flow can refer to changes in volume due to increased flow due to changes to the hydrologic regime.
What you can do
People can use less water wherever possible during droughts or when using water from waterways that already have low flow problems. See EPA websites for more information on flow alteration.
Definition

Acidity (pH) can range from 0-14 and is a measurement of how acidic or alkaline (basic) the water is. The pH of pure water is 7, and the normal range for pH in water systems is approximately 6.5 to 8.5. In general, water with a pH lower than 7 is considered acidic, and with a pH greater than 7 is considered alkaline (or basic). It is normal for saltier waters (oceans and estuaries) to have a slightly higher pH than surface waters such as rivers, lakes, ponds, streams and wetlands.

Acidity (pH) outside a certain range (below 6.5 or above 8.5) can sicken or kill fish and other aquatic life. Highly acidic or alkaline water can also release pollutants from sediments that can further harm aquatic life. Acidity in waterways is influenced by rock and soils, as well as human sources such as industrial and car emissions, mining, and agricultural runoff.
What you can do
People can help reduce pH problems by applying the correct amount of fertilizer on lawns (and avoiding application before wet weather events), properly disposing of chemicals such as household cleaners, and disposing any of the above to avoid ditches, waterways and storm drains. Read more about pH, and what you can do to help reduce acid rain.
Definition
Air temperature is a measure of how hot or cold the air is. It is the most commonly measured weather category. More specifically, temperature describes the kinetic energy, or energy of motion, of the gases that make up air. As gas molecules move more quickly, air temperature increases. Air temperature affects the growth and reproduction of plants and animals, with warmer temperatures promoting biological growth.
Definition

Algae (algal growth) Can occur when excess nutrients, warm water temperatures, and reduced flow trigger the overgrowth of naturally occurring algae into thick mats on or in the water. Blooms of algae can harm aquatic life by clogging fish gills, reducing oxygen levels, and smothering stream and lake beds and submerged vegetation. Some algae blooms can produce toxins that are harmful to human health, pets, wildlife, and livestock when touched, inhaled, or swallowed.

What you can do

People can help reduce algae blooms in their local waters in the following ways: Use lawn and plant fertilizer sparingly and avoid application before wet weather events. Regularly check and pump septic tanks. Practice appropriate disposal of plant and animal waste and avoid disposal in waterways. Dispose of pet waste in the trash. Pump boat waste into an onshore facility. Plant native plants to reduce excess nutrients (nitrogen and phosphorus) entering waterways. Learn more about harmful freshwater algae, and how to reduce nitrogen and phosphorus pollution that causes algal growth.
Definition

Nutrients are any substance, like nitrogen and phosphorus, assimilated by living things that promote growth. Nitrogen and/or Phosphorus (nutrients) in excessive amounts can cause aquatic plants and microbes to grow too fast, choking waterways, causing potentially harmful algae blooms, and creating low oxygen conditions that can harm fish and other aquatic life.

Algae (algal growth) can occur when excess nutrients, warm water temperatures, and reduced flow trigger the overgrowth of naturally occurring algae into thick mats on or in the water. Blooms of algae can harm aquatic life by clogging fish gills, reducing oxygen levels, and smothering stream and lake beds and submerged vegetation. Some algae blooms can produce toxins that are harmful to human health, pets, wildlife, and livestock when touched, inhaled, or swallowed.

What you can do
People can help reduce nitrogen and/or phosphorus pollution in their local waters by using lawn and plant fertilizer sparingly and avoiding application before wet weather events, regularly checking and pumping-out septic tanks, practicing appropriate disposal of plant and animal waste and avoiding disposal in waterways, disposing of pet waste in the trash, pumping boat waste to an onshore facility, and planting native plants to prevent nutrient runoff into waterways. Read more about nitrogen and/or phosphorus pollution and learn more about what you can do to help reduce it. Technical details on nitrogen and/or phosphorus pollution can be found here.
Definition

Ammonia occurs naturally in water in trace amounts, but too much ammonia from fertilizers, sewage and other wastes can be poisonous to fish, especially when water temperature and pH are high. Ammonia can also cause heavy plant growth, foul odors, and low oxygen levels that can interfere with use for fishing, swimming and water supplies. Ammonia acts as a form of nitrogen in the environment, and too much can lead to nutrient (nitrogen and phosphorus) pollution.

What you can do

People can help reduce ammonia/nitrogen pollution by applying the correct amount of fertilizer on lawns and avoiding application before storms, practice appropriate manure management and avoiding disposal in waterways, picking up and disposing of pet waste in the trash, regularly pumping out septic tanks, and pumping boat waste to an onshore facility. Read more about ammonia pollution effects and what you can do to help reduce ammonia pollution
Definition
Aquatic Weeds (noxious aquatic plants) choke waterways, degrade healthy aquatic habitats, and interfere with recreational uses such as swimming, fishing, and boating. Growth of aquatic weeds can be caused by fertilizers, leaking septic tanks, pet and livestock wastes, sewage overflows, and flow alterations.
What you can do
People can help control aquatic plants in their local waters by using lawn and plant fertilizer sparingly and avoiding application before wet weather events. People should regularly check and pump-out septic tanks; practice appropriate disposal of plant and animal waste and avoid disposal in waterways; only dispose of pet waste in the trash; pump boat waste to an onshore facility; and plant native plants to prevent nutrient runoff into waterways. Read more about ways to reduce excess nutrients that cause the harmful overgrowth of aquatic plants.
Definition
Bacteria and other microbes (pathogens) are potentially disease-causing organisms from human or animal waste that enter water from faulty septic systems, sewage discharges, farm and feedlot manure runoff, boat discharges, and pet waste. People can become ill by eating contaminated fish or shellfish or swimming in waters with high levels of these microbes.
What you can do
People can help reduce pathogen contamination by practicing appropriate disposal of animal and boat waste and avoiding disposal in waterways, fixing leaky septic tanks, picking-up pet waste, and avoiding manure application close to shorelines or drainage ditches. Read more about pathogens in waterways.
Definition
Toxins produced by aquatic plants and microbes when swallowed or touched can sicken or even kill fish, shellfish, pets, livestock, wildlife, and people. The leading producers of these poisons in freshwater are blue-green algae, which can bloom into thick mats when high temperatures, still water, low water levels, and high nutrient levels are present.
What you can do
People can help reduce the occurrence of toxic algae in their local waters by reducing nutrient runoff. See excess algae. Learn more about harmful algal blooms and their toxins, and ways to reduce excess nutrients which cause excess algae.
Definition
Biosolids (formerly referred to as "sewage sludge") are the nutrient-rich organic materials resulting from the treatment of sewage sludge (the name for the solid, semisolid or liquid untreated residue generated during the treatment of domestic sewage in a treatment facility). When treated and processed, sewage sludge becomes biosolids which can be safely recycled and applied as fertilizer to sustainably improve and maintain productive soils and stimulate plant growth. Biosolids are regulated under 40 CFR Part 503. 40 CFR Part 503 establishes standards, which consist of general requirements, pollutant limits, management practices, and operational standards, for the final use or disposal of biosolids.

Read more about Biosolids here.
Definition
Blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, are frequently found in freshwater systems. They can also be found in estuarine and marine waters in the U.S. Cyanobacteria are often confused with green algae, because both can produce dense mats that can impede activities like swimming and fishing, and may cause odor problems and oxygen depletion; however, unlike cyanobacteria, green algae are not generally thought to produce toxins. Some freshwater cyanobacterial blooms or cyanoHABs are able to produce highly potent toxins, known as cyanotoxins.

More Information
Definition
Cause Unknown is a reporting category used when a state has monitored and detected degraded conditions in a waterway but has reported no specific details about those conditions or the impairment that caused them.

What you can do

Your state water program may have more recent information on sources of pollution, or information not reported to EPA about your waterway. Contact your state water program to ask, or to report anything about possible causes that you may have observed. See EPA’s CADDIS website for information on scientific methods for solving unknown causes.
Definition

Chlorine, used as a disinfectant and bleaching agent, is poisonous to fish and other aquatic animals at low levels. Discharges from swimming pools, storm water drains, industrial and sewage treatment facilities, and marinas can be sources of chlorine in waterways.
What you can do
People can help reduce chlorine pollution in our waters by avoiding disposing or rinsing-off chlorine-containing disinfectants where the rinse water can wash into storm sewers or directly into a stream, lake or other waterway. Private pools should be emptied onto the ground rather than into waterways or storm drains. Read more about chlorine health effects.
Definition

States are allowed to report on all their assessed waters under CWA section 305(b) and the list of those that are impaired in a single integrated report. Integrated Report Guidance (IRG) is issued biennially to support states in making listing decisions and reporting on the conditions of their waters.

Section 305(b) reports provide information on the water quality status of all waters in the state, whereas section 303(d) lists are a subset of these waters – those that are impaired by a pollutant and in need of a TMDL. Given that both the 305(b) report and the 303(d) lists are due at the same time (April 1 of every even numbered year), EPA recommends that states combine them into a single “Integrated Report.”

More Information.

More Information about Integrated Reports
Definition
A combined sewer overflow (CSO) refers to a discharge of untreated wastewater from a combined sewer system at a point prior to the headworks of the publicly-owned treatment works. (59 FR 18688) CSOs generally occur in response to wet weather events. Most combined sewer systems are designed to discharge excess flow directly to surface water bodies, such as streams, rivers, estuaries, and coastal waters.

Read more about CSOs here.
Definition
Cyanobacteria are a group of cyan colored bacteria often referred to as blue-green algae.

Blue-green algae, also known as cyanobacteria, are frequently found in freshwater systems. They can also be found in estuarine and marine waters in the U.S. Cyanobacteria are often confused with green algae, because both can produce dense mats that can impede activities like swimming and fishing, and may cause odor problems and oxygen depletion; however, unlike cyanobacteria, green algae are not generally thought to produce toxins. Some freshwater cyanobacterial blooms or cyanoHABs are able to produce highly potent toxins, known as cyanotoxins.

More Information
Definition
Degraded aquatic habitat (habitat alterations) occurs when naturally occurring stream channels are changed or diverted through manmade channels and/or removal of native vegetation from shorelines and stream banks. These actions can reduce the habitat that fish and other animals need to reproduce, feed, and find shelter, and can also affect the appearance and value of waterfront property.
What you can do
Waterfront property owners or users can reduce habitat degradation by not removing streamside vegetation or channelizing streams; avoiding filling stream pools, wetlands or other waters; keeping natural shorelines intact; and leaving some rocks, logs or native aquatic plants as cover for fish. Read more about degraded habitat causes and effects.
Definition
Degraded aquatic life (impaired biota) means that the biological community normally expected in a lake, stream or other waterway is unhealthy, much reduced, or absent, and the exact pollutant cause is not known.

What you can do
Your state water program may have more recent information or added information not reported to EPA about your waterway. Contact your state water program to ask, or to report anything about degraded aquatic life or possible causes that you may have observed. See EPA’s CADDIS website for more information on harm to aquatic life from unknown causes.
Definition
Highly toxic chemicals used in some manufacturing processes, can build up in the food chain. They may settle in sediment or on aquatic plants, then get eaten and concentrated by fish, other aquatic life, wildlife, and people. Dioxins are formed unintentionally by burning trash or leaded gasoline and as waste byproducts from manufacturing some pesticides. Dioxins are considered likely to increase cancer risk and may harm the immune system, hormone levels, and fetal development.
What you can do
Human exposure to dioxins largely occurs through the food we eat. To reduce your exposure to dioxins in waterways, pay attention to local fishing advisories for fish you catch and eat yourself. See more EPA information on dioxins.
Definition

Low Oxygen (oxygen depletion) levels in water can occur naturally for short periods, but when they are extreme or long-lasting, they can sicken and even kill fish and other aquatic life. When dissolved oxygen concentrations are less than 2 mg/L, the water lacks the amount of oxygen needed to sustain most aquatic life and is defined as hypoxic. Sewage wastewater, leaking septic tanks, algal blooms, farm and feedlot runoff, and stormwater runoff contain organic materials that decompose and use up oxygen in water. Higher water temperatures can lead to lower oxygen levels.

What you can do
People can help avoid low dissolved oxygen problems in their local waters by practicing appropriate disposal of plant and animal waste and avoiding disposal in waterways, applying the correct amount of fertilizer on lawns and avoiding application before wet weather events, disposing of pet waste in the trash, pumping-out septic tanks regularly, and pumping boat waste to an onshore facility. Read more about dissolved oxygen pollution and what you can do to reduce excess nutrients that result in organic enrichment and low dissolved oxygen.
Definition
Violations of maximum contaminant levels (MCLs) or maximum residual disinfectant levels (MRDLs) under the Safe Drinking Water Act (SDWA), which specify the highest concentrations of contaminants or disinfectants, respectively, allowed in drinking water; or of treatment technique (TT) rules, which specify required processes intended to reduce the amounts of contaminants in drinking water. MCLs, MRDLs, and treatment technique rules are all health-based drinking water standards.
If there is a “yes” entry here, it means that there is at least one health-based violation from any time period that has not be returned to compliance in the system.
Definition
The Primary Source contributing water to the water system:
- GW - Ground Water
- SW - Surface Water
- GU - Ground water under the influence of surface water
Definition
EPA has defined three types of public water systems:
Community Water System (CWS): A public water system that supplies water to the same population year-round (e.g., residences).
Non-Transient Non-Community Water System (NTNCWS): A public water system that regularly supplies water to at least 25 of the same people at least six months per year. Some examples are schools, factories, office buildings, and hospitals which have their own water systems.
Transient Non-Community Water System (TNCWS): A public water system that provides water in a place such as a gas station or campground where people do not remain for long periods of time.
Definition
If a waterbody is assessed for Drinking Water use this means that the raw water was assessed pre-treatment and should not be consumed until after it is treated through a drinking water provider. The assessment was made for the waterbody to potentially be used as a future source of drinking water after treatment. In short, do not drink the water directly from the source. To get more information on each individual use for the waterbody, refer to the waterbody report page.
Definition
Electrical conductivity (indicator of saltiness, specific conductivity) is a measure of water's capacity to pass electrical flow. The more ions (molecules with a net electric charge) present, the higher the electrical conductivity of water. Specific conductivity is an indicator of saltiness because when salt is dissolved in water it adds ions to the water. Salty water has higher more ions than freshwater and therefore a higher specific conductivity.

Salts (salinity) are minerals that dissolve in water; they can be toxic to freshwater plants and animals and make water unusable for drinking, irrigation, and livestock. Water withdrawals, road de-icing, human and industrial wastewater, fertilizer applications, mining and oil or gas drilling, and repeated use of irrigation water can contribute to high levels of salts.
Definition
Environmental justice is the fair treatment and meaningful involvement of all people regardless of race, color, national origin, or income, with respect to the development, implementation, and enforcement of environmental laws, regulations, and policies.

This goal will be achieved when everyone enjoys:
The same degree of protection from environmental and health hazards, and Equal access to the decision-making process to have a healthy environment in which to live, learn, and work.

See Environmental Justice at the EPA for more information.
Definition
Fish kills are large numbers of dead fish in a localized area – may be due to water conditions such as low flow, high temperature, low oxygen levels, harmful algal blooms, or spills of oil or toxic pollutants.

What you can do
People can help by not discharging pollutants into a stream or lake without a permit, and reporting evidence of fish kills immediately to a state water quality or fisheries management office.  
Definition
Fish unsafe to eat (fish consumption advisory) means that eating fish or shellfish caught from the waterway has been limited or banned, usually for certain species of fish/shellfish and for one or more chemicals, microbes or other conditions. In rivers and lakes, fish consumption advisories are usually issued because contaminants such as mercury or PCBs exceed safe limits in fish tissue. In coastal waters, shellfish harvesting may be banned due to unsafe levels of bacteria.
What you can do
Pay attention to warnings, they are meant to protect your health. Note that most pollutants can’t be seen or smelled in fish, and even if the catch appears normal the warnings still apply. EPA’s website on fish advisories contains much more information than How’s My Waterway on specific waters with this problem.
Definition

Flow rate, also known as discharge, can help people determine how much water is available in different locations. It is a measure of the volume of water passing a point over a fixed amount of time. For example, flow rate is typically measured in cubic feet per second (cfs or ft³/sec) but could also be measured in gallons or liters per minute or second.

Abnormal flow (hydrologic alteration) refers to changes in river or stream volume caused by removing water for irrigation or industrial use, drinking water supply, and by alterations from dams to hold and release water on a man-made cycle. Reduced flow can lower oxygen levels, raise water temperatures, cause build-up of sediment and pollutants, destroy aquatic wildlife habitat, and degrade swimming, boating, and fishing. In some cases abnormal flow can refer to changes in volume due to increased flow due to changes to the hydrologic regime.
Definition
Impaired, other cause is a ‘miscellaneous’ reporting category used for dissolved gases, floating debris and foam, leachate, stormwater pollutants, and many other uncommon causes lumped together.
What you can do
Your state water program may have more detailed information not reported to EPA about impairment causes. Contact your state water program with questions or to report what you have observed that may involve impairment causes.
Definition
Impairment (pollutant) is an industrial, municipal, or agricultural waste discharged into water.
From the Clean Water Act:
Impairment means dredged spoil, solid waste, incinerator residue, sewage, garbage, sewage sludge, munitions, chemical wastes, biological materials, radioactive materials, heat, wrecked or discarded equipment, rock, sand, cellar dirt and industrial, municipal, and agricultural waste discharged into water. This term does not mean (A) ‘‘sewage from vessels or a discharge incidental to the normal operation of a vessel of the Armed Forces’’ within the meaning of section 312 of this Act; or (B) water, gas, or other material which is injected into a well to facilitate production of oil or gas, or water derived in association with oil or gas production and disposed of in a well, if the well used either to facilitate production or for disposal purpose is approved by authority of the State in which the well is located, and if such State determines that such injection or disposal will not result in the degradation of ground or surface water resources. See CWA Section 502(6).
Definition

Impervious surfaces are surfaces that allow little or no stormwater infiltration into the ground. Other than exposed natural rock outcroppings, impervious surfaces are completely human-created and are an unnatural part of most ecosystems. Impervious surfaces are the main contributor to excess stormwater runoff that would otherwise have been retained on site in natural forests or meadows. Everything that falls on an impervious surface (pollution, trash, animal waste, chemicals, oils, sediment, etc.) washes off of those surfaces during rain events, often on a direct path to local streams or water bodies.

Examples of impervious surfaces: Streets, roofs, parking lots, most patios, walkways, or anything else that does not allow water to flow through and into the ground (asphalt, concrete, plastics).
Definition
Low Oxygen (oxygen depletion) levels in water can occur naturally for short periods, but when they are extreme or long-lasting, they can sicken and even kill fish and other aquatic life. When dissolved oxygen concentrations are less than 2 mg/L, the water lacks the amount of oxygen needed to sustain most aquatic life and is defined as hypoxic. Sewage wastewater, leaking septic tanks, algal blooms, farm and feedlot runoff, and stormwater runoff contain organic materials that decompose and use up oxygen in water. Higher water temperatures can lead to lower oxygen levels.
What you can do
People can help avoid low dissolved oxygen problems in their local waters by practicing appropriate disposal of plant and animal waste and avoiding disposal in waterways, applying the correct amount of fertilizer on lawns and avoiding application before wet weather events, disposing of pet waste in the trash, pumping-out septic tanks regularly, and pumping boat waste to an onshore facility. Read more about dissolved oxygen pollution and what you can do to reduce excess nutrients that result in organic enrichment and low dissolved oxygen.
Definition
Mercury occurs naturally in rocks and coal. Airborne mercury is converted in water by bacteria into a toxic form called methyl-mercury which accumulates in the food-chain. Mercury can build up in fish, which then poses health risks to people and animals that eat fish. Spills and improper treatment and disposal of mercury containing products or wastes are among other top sources of mercury in water.
What you can do
People can help reduce mercury in the air and water by purchasing mercury-free products and correctly disposing of products that contain mercury. Fish consumption warnings for specific waters concerning mercury are also compiled by EPA. Read more about mercury sources, risks and health effects.
Definition
Metals can enter waterways from factories, mining, and runoff from urban areas, as well as from natural processes such as erosion of soil and rocks. At high levels, metals such as arsenic, cadmium, chromium, copper, lead, selenium, and zinc can be toxic to aquatic animals and humans.
What you can do
People can help by following proper disposal of metal-containing appliances and products. Read more about metals in waterways.
Definition
Murky Water (turbidity) refers to water that is cloudy, muddy or opaque (turbid) because of suspended soil particles, algae, microbes, or organic matter. These tiny particles can absorb heat and raise water temperatures, reduce oxygen for aquatic animals, reduce native aquatic plant growth, clog fish gills and smother fish eggs and aquatic insects.
What you can do
Waterfront property owners can reduce turbidity by not removing streamside vegetation or channelizing streams, not filling wetlands or other waters, keeping natural shorelines intact, leaving some rocks, logs or native aquatic plants as cover for fish; and routing rainwater runoff to areas where it can soak in rather than runoff directly into a lake, stream, or sewer system. See also EPA information on reducing and controlling turbidity in drinking water.
Definition
Nitrogen and/or Phosphorus (nutrients) in excessive amounts can cause aquatic plants and microbes to grow too fast, choking waterways, causing potentially harmful algae blooms, and creating low oxygen conditions that can harm fish and other aquatic life.
What you can do
People can help reduce nitrogen and/or phosphorus pollution in their local waters by using lawn and plant fertilizer sparingly and avoiding application before wet weather events, regularly checking and pumping-out septic tanks, practicing appropriate disposal of plant and animal waste and avoiding disposal in waterways, disposing of pet waste in the trash, pumping boat waste to an onshore facility, and planting native plants to prevent nutrient runoff into waterways. Read more about nitrogen and/or phosphorus pollution and learn more about what you can do to help reduce it. Technical details on nitrogen and/or phosphorus pollution can be found here.
Definition
Nitrogen and/or Phosphorus (nutrients) in excessive amounts can cause aquatic plants and microbes to grow too fast, choking waterways, causing potentially harmful algae blooms, and creating low oxygen conditions that can harm fish and other aquatic life.
What you can do
People can help reduce nitrogen and/or phosphorus pollution in their local waters by using lawn and plant fertilizer sparingly and avoiding application before wet weather events, regularly checking and pumping-out septic tanks, practicing appropriate disposal of plant and animal waste and avoiding disposal in waterways, disposing of pet waste in the trash, pumping boat waste to an onshore facility, and planting native plants to prevent nutrient runoff into waterways. Read more about nitrogen and/or phosphorus pollution and learn more about what you can do to help reduce it. Technical details on nitrogen and/or phosphorus pollution can be found here.
Definition
Nonpoint Source pollution is a pollution source without a single point of origin or specific outlet.
NPS pollution generally results from land runoff, precipitation, atmospheric deposition, drainage, seepage or hydrologic modification. NPS pollution, unlike pollution from industrial and sewage treatment plants, comes from many diffuse sources. NPS pollution is caused by rainfall or snowmelt moving over and through the ground. As the runoff moves, it picks up and carries away natural and human-made pollutants, finally depositing them into lakes, rivers, wetlands, coastal waters and ground waters.
Definition
Nuisance Plants or Animals (Foreign), often called invasive species, are plants, animals, fish, or microbes that are not native to the region and cause harm to native species, to recreation and other uses of the waterway, and/or to human health. In general, invasive species spread vigorously and enter waterways by many means such as accidental or intentional releases and attachment to boats and other recreational equipment.
What you can do
People can help prevent the spread of aquatic invasive species by not dumping aquarium fish, plants or water into local waters, inspecting and thoroughly cleaning boats, trailers, and recreational equipment before use and after use, allowing watercraft to dry completely before launching into another body of water, and not releasing live baitfish or other bait. Learn more about waterways degraded by non-native, invasive species here.
Definition
Nuisance Plants or Animals (Native) includes aquatic plants and animals that are native to the region (not brought in from elsewhere) but have become too crowded in the waterway. Overgrowth can interfere with oxygen levels in the water, threaten survival of fish and other animals, make waterways unattractive, reduce property value, and degrade or prevent recreational uses including swimming, fishing, and boating
What you can do
People can help control aquatic plants in their local waters by using lawn and plant fertilizer sparingly and avoiding application before wet weather events, regularly checking and pumping out septic tanks, practicing appropriate disposal of plant and animal waste and avoiding disposal in waterways, disposing of pet waste in the trash, pumping boat waste to an onshore facility, and planting native plants to prevent nutrient runoff into waterways. Read more about ways to reduce excess nutrients that cause the harmful overgrowth of aquatic plants.
Definition
Oil and Grease includes fuel oil, gasoline, vegetable oil, and animal fats. Oils generally enter waterways through spills, leaks, and improper disposal, and can be toxic to plants and animals even in small amounts.
What you can do
People can help reduce oil and grease pollution by disposing of car oil and paints properly and not in storm sewers and drains, cleaning up spilled oil and grease with absorbent towels instead of hosing them into the street where they can eventually reach local waterways, and fixing oil leaks from vehicles. Read more about things you can do to prevent urban runoff leading to oil and grease pollution.
Definition
Organic matter pertains to any of the carbon-based compounds that abound in nature. Living things are described as organic since they are composed of organic compounds. Examples of organic compounds are carbohydrates, lipids, proteins and nucleic acids. Since they are comprised of carbon-based compounds they are broken down into smaller, simpler compounds through decomposition when they die. Living organisms also excrete or secrete material that is considered an organic material. The organic matter from living things becomes a part of the environment. Thus, organic matter abounds in the ecosystem, e.g. soil ecosystem. The organic matter moves into the soil or into the mainstream water where it then serves as a source of nutrition to living organisms.

Organic matter may move to soil, sediment, and water. It becomes an important source of coal and kerogen (i.e. a fossilized organic material in sedimentary rocks and shale).

Soil organic matter comes from the organic material from plants (e.g. leaves and woody materials), animals (e.g. decaying components), and microorganisms. The presence of organic matter in the soil is essential as a source of nutrients for crops and other garden plants. It also helps store water in the soil and promotes activity of soil microorganisms and earthworms. The organic matter in the soil also regulates the soil pH, temperature, and aeration.
Definition
PCBs, or polychlorinated biphenyls, are a group of man-made organic chemicals with a range of toxicity. Although manufacturing of PCBs was banned in the U.S. in 1979, PCBs are long-lasting in fish tissue and in bottom-sediments of rivers and lakes. PCBs in fish that are eaten by humans and wildlife can build up and may have cancer-causing and other health effects. PCB contamination has caused many fishing bans and warnings.
What you can do
Your state water program may have more information about PCBs not reported to EPA. Contact your state water program with questions. See EPA websites for basic PCB information and PCB health effects.
Definition

Permit Status reflects the stages in the permit life cycle:

Effective: A permit that is in its lifetime (Effective Date < = current date < expiration date).

Expired: A permit that 90 days after the expiration date has been reached on a permit that has no new Application Received Date or Complete Application Received date entered.

Administratively Continued: A permit that is at the permit's expiration date. All monitoring data are still collected and used against the permit’s terms.

Pending: A permit with incomplete data or a permit with an Effective Date that has not yet been reached.

Retired: A permit that all monitoring data is stopped against a retired permit; used in conjunction with Reissue. If a Permit is reissued before its expiration date, the Permit Status Code or the previous version of the Permit will be set to Retired. Also, the Compliance Tracking status will be set to "Off".

Terminated: A permit that if the user enters the Termination Date, upon that date being reached, the system will automatically change the Permit Status Code to Terminated. Also, the Compliance Tracking status will be set to "Off".
See ECHO for more information.
Definition
Pesticides, such as herbicides and insecticides, include a variety of chemicals used to manage unwanted pests or weeds. In water, pesticides can affect the health of aquatic insects, fish, plants, and animals exposed through feeding or contact.
What you can do
People can reduce pesticide pollution in waterways by using insecticides and herbicides in proper doses according to the label, well away from waters or drainage ditches whenever possible, avoiding application on windy days and disposing of waste properly. See more information on pesticide human health effects, insecticide effects on waterways, or herbicide effects on waterways.
Definition
PFAS, Per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a group of synthetic chemicals that have been in use since the 1940s. PFAS are found in a wide array of consumer and industrial products. PFAS manufacturing and processing facilities, facilities using PFAS in production of other products, airports, and military installations are some of the potential contributors of PFAS releases into the air, soil, and water. Due to their widespread use and persistence in the environment, most people in the United States have been exposed to PFAS. There is evidence that continued exposure above specific levels to certain PFAS may lead to adverse health effects.

More Information
Read more about PFAS chemicals.
Definition
Point Source means any discernible, confined and discrete conveyance, including but not limited to any pipe, ditch, channel, tunnel, conduit, well, discrete fissure, container, rolling stock, concentrated animal feeding operation, or vessel or other floating craft, from which pollutants are or may be discharged. This term does not include agricultural stormwater discharges and return flows from irrigated agriculture. See CWA Section 502(14).
Definition
Harmful algal blooms are overgrowths of algae in water. Some produce dangerous toxins in fresh or marine water but even nontoxic blooms hurt the environment and local economies.
Harmful algal blooms are a major environmental problem in all 50 states. Red tides, blue-green algae, and cyanobacteria are examples of harmful algal blooms that can have severe impacts on human health, aquatic ecosystems, and the economy.

More Information
Definition
The term Publicly Owned Treatment Works or POTW means a treatment works as defined by section 212 of the Act, which is owned by a State or municipality (as defined by section 502(4) of the Clean Water Act). This definition includes any devices and systems used in the storage, treatment, recycling and reclamation of municipal sewage or industrial wastes of a liquid nature. It also includes sewers, pipes and other conveyances only if they convey wastewater to a POTW Treatment Plant. The term also means the municipality as defined in section 502(4) of the Clean Water Act, which has jurisdiction over the Indirect Discharges to and the discharges from such a treatment works.
Read more about POTWs here.
Definition
Radiation can enter waterways through eroding or dissolving underground deposits of radioactive metals such as uranium, from the air due to accidental or intentional release, in seepage from improper disposal sites, in mining runoff or dumped mine-tailings, or from other industrial activities. Concentrated radioactive materials in waterways can be a health concern.
What you can do
Read more about radiation and US waterways.
Definition
Salts (salinity) are minerals that dissolve in water; they can be toxic to freshwater plants and animals and make water unusable for drinking, irrigation, and livestock. Water withdrawals, road de-icing, human and industrial wastewater, fertilizer applications, mining and oil or gas drilling, and repeated use of irrigation water can contribute to high levels of salts.
What you can do
People can help by minimizing the use of de-icing salts where they may be washed-off into waterways, storm drains, and ditches. Please see more information on the sources and effects of salts on our waterways.
Definition
You can switch between linear and log scale to visualize data on the Monitoring Report page.
What is a linear scale?
A linear scale is a chart where the value between any two consecutive points on the line does not change no matter the location on the line.
What is a logarithmic (log) scale?
A logarithmic scale (or log scale) is a way of displaying numerical data over a very wide range of values in a compact way. Logarithmic scales are useful when the data you are displaying is much less or much more than the rest of the data or when the percentage differences between values are important. You can specify whether to use a logarithmic scale, if the values in the chart cover a very large range.
Definition
Sediment is a problem when rain washes soil into waterways from fields, construction sites, yards, logging areas, city streets, and other areas. Sediment can make water murky, hurt the health and habitats of fish and other aquatic animals, interfere with uses like fishing and swimming, and carry other pollutants.
What you can do
People can help reduce sediment pollution by limiting soil erosion, including by not removing native plants from stream edges, not disturbing soil near ditches or waterways, and routing rainwater to areas where it can soak in rather than runoff directly into a lake, stream or sewer system. Read more about sediment effects on waterways and ways to help control sediment problems.
Definition

If a waterbody has been assessed for swimming and boating this means that a decision was made on if it has been deemed safe for swimming and other recreational uses. The information in How’s My Waterway about the safety of recreation should only be considered as general reference. Please consult with your state for local or swimming advisories before deciding to swim in a waterbody.
Recreational uses are often divided into two subcategories:
Primary Contact:Protects people from illness due to immersion in water. May include swimming, water-skiing, skin diving, and surfing—all activities where ingestion is likely.
Secondary Contact:
Protects people when engaging in activities where ingestion is unlikely, such as boating and wading.
For more information on waterbody uses click here.
Definition
Many fish and other aquatic animals are sensitive to changes in water temperature and require a certain temperature range to survive. If water temperature goes outside that range for too long, they can become sick or die.
What you can do
People can help avoid water temperature problems by not removing shade trees and shrubs from streambanks, using less water during droughts, and directing rainwater on pavement to soak into the ground instead of running into streams, lakes, or sewer systems. See more information on water temperature.
Definition
A TMDL or Total Maximum Daily Load is the calculation of the maximum amount of a pollutant allowed to enter a waterbody so that the waterbody will meet and continue to meet water quality standards for that particular pollutant.

A TMDL determines a pollutant reduction target and allocates load reductions necessary to the source(s) of the pollutant. Sometimes referred to as a “pollution diet” for a waterbody.
Definition
Rainfall (precipitation) is measured every 15 minutes or 1 hour at this station. The total daily rainfall is the cumulative amount of rainfall that has fallen over the last 24 hours (from the time the last measurement was taken).
Precipitation is any liquid or frozen water that forms in the atmosphere and falls back to the Earth. It comes in many forms, like rain, sleet, and snow. Along with evaporation and condensation, precipitation is one of the three major parts of the global water cycle.

Precipitation forms in the clouds when water vapor condenses into bigger and bigger droplets of water. When the drops are heavy enough, they fall to the Earth. If a cloud is colder, like it would be at higher altitudes, the water droplets may freeze to form ice. These ice crystals then fall to the Earth as snow, hail, or rain, depending on the temperature within the cloud and at the Earth’s surface. Most rain begins as snow high in the clouds. As the snowflakes fall through warmer air, they become raindrops.
Definition
Total Toxic Chemicals include many, man-made substances such as solvents, pesticides, dioxins, PCBs, and furans. They can enter waterways through improper pesticide application and disposal, runoff, spills, auto exhaust, and burning of chemical wastes. These chemicals can be toxic to animals and people.
What you can do
People can help eliminate toxics in waterways by properly rinsing-out contaminated containers to avoid runoff into waterways or storm sewers. Also, never flush down the toilet anything known to be poisonous, such as paints, paint strippers, other solvents, cleansers and disinfectants, prescription drugs, or automotive products. Read more about toxic chemical effects in waters and what you can do to help reduce toxic chemicals in our waterways.
Definition
Toxic Inorganic Chemicals refer to a wide range of pollutants including metals, fire retardants, cyanide, and perchlorate (used in rocket fuel) that can be poisonous to aquatic life and people. Industrial or wastewater discharges, mining, landfills, and air deposition of car exhaust and energy production can contribute to increased levels of toxic inorganic chemicals in waterways.
What you can do
People can help eliminate toxics in waterways by properly rinsing out contaminated containers to avoid runoff into waterways or storm sewers. Also, never flush down the toilet anything known to be poisonous, such as paints, paint strippers, other solvents, cleansers and disinfectants, prescription drugs, or automotive products. Read more about toxic chemical effects in waters and what you can do to help reduce toxic chemicals in our waterways.
Definition
Toxic Organic Chemicals are harmful, man-made chemicals that contain carbon. They can build-up in animal and fish tissue, lake and river sediments, and enter sources of drinking water posing potential long-term health risks.
What you can do
People can help eliminate toxics in waterways by properly rinsing out contaminated containers to avoid runoff into waterways or storm sewers. Also, never flush down the toilet anything known to be poisonous, such as paints, paint strippers, other solvents, cleansers and disinfectants, prescription drugs, or automotive products. Read more about toxic chemical effects in waters and what you can do to help reduce toxic chemicals in our waterways.
Definition
Trash consists of litter, debris, and other types of discarded solid waste. Trash can be contaminated with toxins or bacteria, and it harms fish and wildlife that eat it or become entangled in it. In areas where people swim or wade, trash can present a human health and/or safety threat.  
What you can do
Never use waterways or their sloping banks as a place to dump garbage or litter of any amount. People can help by properly disposing of trash, not littering in or near waterways, preventing trash from being blown away, and picking up visible trash in and near waterways. Read more about trash in waterways.
Definition
Section 106 of the Clean Water Act (CWA) authorizes EPA to provide financial assistance to states and eligible interstate agencies to establish and administer programs for the prevention, reduction, and elimination of water pollution. In 1987, Congress amended section 518(e) of the CWA to include provisions that allow EPA to treat an Indian tribe in a manner similar to a state (i.e., treatment in a manner similar to a state, or TAS) for the purpose of providing Section 106 funding.
More Information on Tribal Grants.
Definition
In How’s My Waterway the upstream watershed shows the entire land area that drains into the smaller selected watershed depicted by the dashed line on the map. Everything upstream eventually ends up downstream. Everyday activities in upstream waters can affect downstream waters. It is essential to consider these downstream impacts when developing and implementing water quality protection and restoration actions.
Definition

When water clarity (turbidity) values are high, it means that the water is cloudy, muddy or opaque (turbid) because of suspended soil particles, algae, microbes, or organic matter. These tiny particles can absorb heat and raise water temperatures, reduce oxygen for aquatic animals, reduce native aquatic plant growth, clog fish gills and smother fish eggs and aquatic insects. If water is described as highly turbid, it also means that only a small amount of light is able to penetrate through the water.

What you can do
Waterfront property owners can reduce turbidity by not removing streamside vegetation or channelizing streams, not filling wetlands or other waters, keeping natural shorelines intact, leaving some rocks, logs or native aquatic plants as cover for fish; and routing rainwater runoff to areas where it can soak in rather than runoff directly into a lake, stream, or sewer system. See also EPA information on reducing and controlling turbidity in drinking water.

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