CRWA Baseline Water Quality Monitoring Background

Problem

Prior to 1994, there had never been a comprehensive study of the Charles River watershed. Previous studies had typically been limited in geographic and technical focus. CRWA's advocacy required stronger scientific underpinnings based on a more holistic understanding of the way the watershed worked.

Objective

In 1994, CRWA set off on an ambitious multi-year project to formulate a comprehensive, water quality management plan that would serve as a definitive guide over the next several decades to communities, businesses, land owners, environmental groups, and regulators working toward a healthier river.

Approach

The project involves:

1. monitoring flow, water and sediment quality, habitat and biota;
2. modeling hydrologic, water quality and economic conditions in the watershed; and
3. watershed management planning with strategies for improving conditions in the river. The project involves the cooperative efforts of CRWA staff, several university research teams, a network of over 100 volunteers, and several state and federal agencies.

Current Work

Currently in Phase 3 of the project, we are working with the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), MA Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), and municipalities on management strategies. Data gathering and analysis remain the foundation for much of our other work, and we will continue water quality monitoring even though the formal requirements for data under contracts to EPA, DEP, and the Massachusetts Water Resources Authority (MWRA) ended with the publication of our IM3 Phase II Final Report.

Ongoing management demonstration projects include environmental zoning in Holliston, stormwater management on the BU campus, and evaluation of water resource management alternatives for the Upper Charles.