Data was collected as part of a basin wide synoptic sample event in May, July and September. All three events included collection of the following field chemistry parameters: pH, temperature, dissolved oxygen and conductivity. Field observations were generally made for rainfall, turbidity and stream flow.  Grab samples were collected at each site and were analyzed for various parameters based on seasonal priorities. The results are detailed below by sample event.

The spring sample event occurred during the period of May 20th – 22nd with a total of 67 sites reporting. Grab samples were collected for sulfate, chloride, total suspended solids, nitrate-nitrogen and nitrate. Additionally a 26 site were selected for anaylsis for the following herbicides: triazines, 2,4 D and metolachlor. Triazine was the most commonly detected of the herbicide compounds. The complete results can be viewed at this link.

The summer sample event occurred during the period of July 11th – 15th with a total of 66 sites reporting. Grab samples were collected for fecal coliform, with 50 of the sites exceeding the Kentucky surface water standard of 400 CFU/100ml. In addition, fecal strep anaylsis was conducted in an attempt to generate a fecal coliform to fecal strep ratio. This ratio was believed to be an indicator of the orgin of the bacteria. However, more recent information suggests this method is not scientifically sound.

Grab samples were collected at all sites to screen for the presence of BTEX compounds associated with petroleum byproducts. This analysis included benzene, toulene, ethylbenze and xylene. Fortunately, all samples tested negatively for these compounds. Samples were also collected for chloride, sulfate and nitrate-nitrogen. The complete results can be viewed at this link.

The fall sample event occurred on September 8th with a total of 65 sites reporting. Grab samples were collected for fecal coliform, total iron, total phosphorus, nitrate-nitrogen and ammonia nitrogen. There were a total of 16 sites that were found to be exceeding the Kentucky surface water standard of 400 CFU/100ml for fecal coliform bacteria. The complete results can be viewed at this link.