Potomac Riverkeeper Network
Citizen Science Volunteer Water Quality Monitoring Program
Citizen Science Volunteer Water Quality Monitoring Program
To achieve their mission of improving recreation access, Potomac Riverkeeper’s Water Quality Monitoring Program is a key component of their Swimmable Potomac Campaign. They rely on a dedicated team of volunteer citizen scientists who are rigorously trained by Potomac Riverkeeper and other skilled and knowledgeable professionals. The volunteers conduct weekly water sampling and testing from a host of sites along the river – DC, Maryland, and Virginia – and post the results in real-time on SwimGuide, the smartphone app for recreational users.
They have started this year’s testing, and are following all the necessary requirements for the safety of all involved. They have expanded the scope of testing this year and need more volunteers.
Due to COVID-19 pandemic, Potomac Riverkeeper have made adjustments to the water quality monitoring program, but only so that the important bacteria monitoring can safely get done. They canceled ther 2020 in-person volunteer water quality monitoring training sessions and developed online training modules so volunteers can take the training course anytime! Rest assured that our revised protocols for volunteer monitoring will comply with all of Maryland and Virginia’s requirements for safe social distancing and activities to avoid further spread of the Covid-19 virus.
This program is running all summer long!
About Potomac Riverkeeper Network
Potomac Riverkeeper, Inc. was established in 2000 by principals of local environmental groups to fulfill a niche for a strong advocate to enforce clean water laws for the Potomac River and its tributaries. Riverkeepers are the eyes and ears of the water, protecting the public’s right to clean water in their rivers and streams. Encompassing the skills of scientists, teachers, law officers, fishermen and paddlers, Riverkeepers combine a profound knowledge of their waterway, matched with a relentless commitment to protecting your rights and the rule of law.
Potomac Riverkeeper Network’s mission is to protect the public’s right to clean water in our rivers and streams, stopping pollution to promote safe drinking water, protect healthy river habitats, and enhance public use and enjoyment.
Related Blogs
Become a Water Quality Monitor (Virtually) with Potomac Riverkeeper Network
The Foundation is supporting the expansion of the Potomac Riverkeeper Network’s water quality monitoring program to three sites at Mallows Bay as part of our commitment to protecting our marine treasures and creating stewards who conserve these places. Potomac Riverkeeper is conducting virtual training for citizen scientists to learn sampling and monitoring techniques.