Blue- Green Algae Monitoring Plan-2008

Background

In late summer 2007, a blue-green algae bloom was documented in the province of Newfoundland and Labrador that affected Cochrane Pond, Paddy’s Pond, Three Arm Pond and Three Island Pond. The Department of Environment and Conservation is committed to the proactive monitoring of water quality in this pond system in 2008.

A list of frequently asked questions and answers concerning blue-green algae has also been prepared.

Monitoring Program

A multi-dimensional water quality monitoring plan has been developed that will include the following:

§ In situ field identification of the presence/absence of the blue-green algae toxin microcystin-LR

§ blue-green algae and associated toxin analysis by an accredited laboratory

§ chemical water analysis by an accredited laboratory, including nitrogen and phosphorus concentrations

§ bacteriological water analysis by an accredited laboratory

§ in-situ water quality data recorded by a multi parameter probe that will measure water temperature, pH, conductivity, dissolved oxygen, turbidity, blue-green algae and chlorophyll levels

§ field observations and climate conditions at the time of sampling

§ appropriate sanitizing of all water quality monitoring equipment and personal field gear when sampling is completed at each site.

Water samples will be collected from twelve areas of interest at least monthly, commencing in May and continuing through October 2008. The frequency of sampling may increase in the event that a blue-green algae bloom develops. The twelve sampling sites that have been selected are:

§ the outlets of Thomas Pond, Cochrane Pond, Paddy’s Pond, Three Arm Pond, Three Island Pond and Topsail Pond ( 6 sampling sites)

§ the inflows/outflows of six culverts that drain into Paddy’s Pond ( 6 sampling sites)

A schematic depicting the flow of water from the most upstream water bodies, Cochrane Pond and Thomas Pond, to the most downstream water body, Topsail Pond, is found in Figure 1, below:

Figure 1: Stream Flow in Pond System

A map identifying the twelve sampling locations is found in Figure 2, below:

Figure 2: Map of Sampling Sites

As water quality analysis results become available they will be added to this Microsoft Excel file.

The Provincial Department of Environment and Conservation will implement this water quality monitoring plan in coordination with the federal Department of Fisheries and Oceans, and other interested agencies.

For additional information on drinking water quality or any other water resources related topics please contact us:

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