USGS-NAWQA: OFR 93-409: Methods for collecting algal samples as part of the National Water-Quality Assessment Program (1993)
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Official Method Name
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Methods for collecting algal samples as part of the National Water-Quality Assessment Program |
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Current Revision
| 1993 |
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Media
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WATER |
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Instrumentation
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Algal sampling devices |
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Method Subcategory
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Population/Community |
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Method Source
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Citation
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Protocol
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NAWQA Ecological (1993) - Methods for sampling ecological (fish, inverts, and algal) communities as part of the National Water-Quality Assessment Program (1993) |
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Brief Method Summary
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Benthic algae (periphyton) and phytoplankton communities are characterized in the U.S. Geological Survey's National Water-Quality Assessment Program as part of an integrated physical, chemical, and biological assessment of the Nation's water quality. This multidisciplinary approach provides multiple lines of evidence for evaluating water-quality status and trends, and for refining an understanding of the factors that affect water-quality conditions locally, regionally, and nationally. Water quality can be characterized by evaluating the results of qualitative and quantitative measurements of the algal community. Qualitative periphyton samples are collected to develop of list of taxa present in the sampling reach. Quantitative periphyton samples are collected to measure algal community structure within selected habitats. These samples of benthic algal communities are collected from natural substrates, using the sampling methods that are most appropriate for the habitat conditions. Phytoplankton samples may be collected in large nonwadeable streams and rivers to meet specific program objectives. Estimates of algal biomass (chlorophyll content and ash-free dry mass) also are optional measures that may be useful for interpreting water-quality conditions. A nationally consistent approach provides guidance on site, reach, and habitat selection, as well as information on methods and equipment for qualitative and quantitative sampling. Appropriate quality-assurance and quality-control guidelines are used to maximize the ability to analyze data locally, regionally, and nationally.
This method has been superceded by Moulton, S.R., Kennen, J.G., Goldstein, R.M., and Hambrook, J.A., 2002, Revised Protocols for Sampling Algal, Invertebrate, and Fish Communities as Part of the National Water-Quality Assessment Program: U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Report 02-150. Available for download at http://pubs.usgs.gov/of/2002/ofr-02-150/ |
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Scope and Application
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This document provides detailed procedures for use by trained biologists in evaluating stream fish communities as part of the U.S. Geological Survey's (USGS) NAWQA Program. These procedures allow standardization of collection methods and descriptions of fish communities to facilitate unbiased evaluations of relations among physical, chemical, and biological components of water-quality conditions. The methods presented in this document have been established as standard procedures for characterizing fish communities in streams ranging from headwaters to large rivers (Bagenal, 1978; Nielsen and Johnson, 1983; Bryan, 1984; Ohio Environmental Protection Agency, 1987; Britton and Greeson, 1988; and Plafkin and others, 1989). This document describes the sampling approach to be used in characterizing fish communities. This approach considers availability of existing data, the selection of sampling sites, the sampling reach, and the sampling season. Sampling procedures focus mainly on electrofishing and seining techniques, but other sampling methods are discussed. Sampling-related issues include collection of permits, concerns about endangered species, and coordination of activities with other ecologists. The processing of samples covers taxonomic identification, physical measurements, examination of fish for external anomalies, and the preservation of specimens. Forms for recording these data are presented. |
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Applicable Concentration Range
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Interferences
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selection of sampling sites and sampling season |
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Quality Control Requirements
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Sample Handling
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Maximum Holding Time
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Relative Cost
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Unknown |
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Sample Preparation Methods
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