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Impact Assessment, Biological Monitoring, and
Water Quality
- Biological Monitoring on Seven Arlington County Streams
- WEG Responsibilities:
Macroinvertebrate Collection
Fish Population Sampling
Taxonomy, Metric Computation, and Reporting
Historical Data Review
Arlington County Biomonitoring Program Development Plan
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Aquatic Macroinvertebrate Taxonomic Services
Laboratory |
Williamsburg Environmental Group, Inc. (WEG) was contracted to provide biological monitoring services to Arlington County Department of Environmental Services. The program includes a formal comprehensive study to evaluate existing ecological conditions on seven streams throughout the County, selecting a total of eleven study reaches. Benthic macroinvertebrate samples were collected from each study reach and were retained for laboratory analysis where 100-organism subsamples were processed and organisms were identified to the lowest practicable level (genus/species). Multi-metric computations provided a quantitative analysis of long term water quality, potential sources of impairment, and overall ecological health. Utilizing electrofishing equipment, fish were also sampled from the eleven study reaches. Individual populations were enumerated, and similar water quality multi-metrics were used to evaluate existing conditions and potential impact sources.
The scope of services includes macroinvertebrate and fish collection conducted biannually (spring and fall) consistent with the methods described in the EPA's Rapid Bioassessment Protocols for Use in Wadeable Streams and Rivers and as practiced by the Virginia DEpartment of Environmental Quality (DEQ). All macroinvertebrate identification was conducted by a taxonomist certified by the Society for Freshwater Science (formerly NABS). Fish taxonomy was conducted streamside by experienced practitioners. Findings and a detailed discussion of possible implications are included in the annual report to the County.
In addition to our independent study, WEG provided a critical review of Arlington County's existing biological monitoring data spanning ten years. Our 2011 study provides a high resolution analytical framework that helps to interpret trends in the historical volunteer-collected data. As a second component to this review, WEG prepared a Biological Monitoring Program Development Plan document recommending Best Practices to support a robust, volunteer-based biological monitoring program for urban streams. The report addresses staff responsibilities, volunteer training and certification, sample collection procedures, and data analysis methods. The report also addresses ways the County can synthesize and present biological monitoring results to improve communication with the local community and to foster a sense of participation and stewardship in the general public.
Learn More in our Biological Brochure or our latest eNewsflash
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