In Reply Refer To: October 3, 1983 EGS-Mail Stop 412 QUALITY OF WATER BRANCH TECHNICAL MEMORANDUM NO. 83.18 Subject: PROGRAMS AND PLANS--National Water-Quality Networks; Fiscal Year 1984--0ctober 1, 1983 to September 30, 1984. Program status and protocol for operation of the National Stream Quality Accounting Network (NASQAN) and the Hydrologic Bench-Mark Network (HBMN) in fiscal year (FY) 1984 are outlined in this memorandum. The contents of this memorandum should be read and understood by all personnel responsible for collecting samples for NASQAN or HBMN. Most problems associated with data collection for these networks result when involved personnel are not adequately informed of changes in sample collection and processing procedures, and other aspects of networks operations. PROGRAM ACTIVITIES AND PRODUCTS In addition to the ongoing data-collection program, the following diverse groups of activities are being supported by the National Networks Program: (l) interpretation of National Networks data by Headquarters staff, universities, and especially Water Resources Division (WRD) District personnel; (2) collection of background information for planning new program initiatives, e.g. the National Organic Substances Monitoring Program and the Radiochemical Program; (3) development of new or improved analytical procedures; (4) development of new data-analysis procedures; and (5) development and distribution of information products related to the National Networks data base. These activities are discussed in more detail below, not only as a source of information for WRD personnel, but also as an incentive for interested parties to provide constructive criticism and suggestions for new activities. DATA INTERPRETATION PROJECTS o Dennis Wentz of the Wisconsin District is assessing the water quality at each HBMN station. The objectives of the project are to: (l) summarize all water-quality data collected at each station through the 1979 Water Year; (2) determine, to the extent possible, whether water quality at these stations is representative of natural conditions; (3) estimate the magnitude of anthropogenic effects on the quality of the nation's rivers; (4) demonstrate methods for increasing the visibility of the HBMN program and for presenting and disseminating information from this program to water-data users; and (5) recommend procedures for improving the HBMN water-quality data collection program. A final report is expected during the later part of 1983. o The Wisconsin District is also preparing a report on the streamflow characteristics at each HBMN station. The statistical summary will be done in both tabular and graphical formats on a station-by-station basis. The publication, which will be available soon, covers all available streamflow data collected through the 1981 Water Year. o Statistical summaries of historical daily-values data and trend analysis of dissolved-solids data for NASQAN stations were completed recently by Frank Wells and Terri Schertz of the Texas District. A Water Resources Investigations report will be available during the later part of 1983. o A comprehensive investigation was completed in September 1983 by the Ohio State University Department of Civil Engineering to develop data-reduction techniques used to derive a data base of sub-basin characteristics appropriate for use in regression analysis to explain water-quality variations at NASQAN stations in the Ohio River basin. Sub-basin parameters are used as independent variables in regression models to predict the average concentration of selected water-quality constituents in runoff from Ohio River sub-basins. In total, approximately 150 measures of basin characteristics were derived for each of 30 basins comprising the study area. Four volumes of the report have been completed, and an additional volume will be available in 1984. o The Environmental Quality Laboratory of the California Institute of Technology was contracted to prepare a report on the adequacy of the sediment data collected in the NASQAN program in terms of spatial coverage, sampling frequency, and accuracy of the measurements used. The 95 page report was released in July 1983 and a limited number of copies are available for loan from the Quality of Water Branch. o The Pennsylvania District initiated a project in March 1983 in which two HBMN drainage basins were selected to: (l) determine the spatial variability of stream acidity within small upland watersheds for selected flow,conditions; (2) define the relationship between streamflow and acidity; (3) evaluate how well pH data at a gaging station represent upstream conditions; and (4) develop an information base for evaluation of temporal trends of acidity within watersheds. A report will be available in October 1983. o The North Dakota District will evaluate available water quality data for evidence of snowmelt enrichment in atmospherically-derived trace constituents for HBMN drainage basins receiving more than 12 inches of snow. Specific objectives of this project include: (l) identify enrichments in trace constituents at HBMN drainage basins occurring on the rising limb of the spring snowmelt hydrograph; (2) compare the enrichments with data on atmospheric emissions; and (3) identify relationships among the magnitude of regional atmospheric emissions, annual snow accumulation, and the magnitude of trace constituent enrichments observed, if any. A report is expected in early 1984. o Streamflow data from HBMN stations in the Columbia-North Pacific and California regions will be studied by the Oregon District to identify stations where time trends in streamflow exist and to determine if the trends are man induced or climatically caused. A final report is expected at the beginning of FY 1984. o Streamflow and water-quality data for the HBMN station Falling Creek near Juliett, Georgia will be interpreted by the Georgia District to: (l) determine the presence or absence and magnitude of statistically significant time series trends in water-quality parameters; (2) based upon the results of objective 1, determine which water-quality parameters are suitable for use as baseline trend indicators; (3) identify and characterize time-series trends at nearby sites representing basins undergoing development and those which are relatively static; and (4) analyze observed differences in trend slopes for selected water-quality parameters as they relate to differences in basin characteristics and to changes in land cover, land use, and water use. A final report is expected at the beginning of FY 1984. o An initial group of eight projects have been initiated by the NASQAN program to detail the variability of the water quality within NASQAN drainage basins relative to the composite picture provided by the NASQAN stations, which are generally located at the downstream end of U.S. Geological Survey/Water Resources Council Hydrologic Accounting Units. A major concern of the WRD Ad Hoc Committee convened to evaluate the NASQAN program was that many people have erroneously assumed or believed that the water quality at NASQAN stations accurately reflect the water quality variability throughout the entire upstream drainage area. Although NASQAN was never intended, nor should it be expected, to reflect upstream variability, an understanding of the spatial and temporal variability of the water quality within a NASQAN drainage basin is a logical adjunct to the objectives of NASQAN and should contribute significantly to our ability to plan and conduct better water-quality monitoring programs. Each of the eight projects has the following objectives: (l) describe, on both a spatial and temporal basis, the surface-water quality throughout the Hydrologic Accounting Unit upstream of the NASQAN station; (2) relate the water quality variability, on both a spatial and temporal basis, to general causes such as selected basin characteristics including land and water use; (3) assess the ability of water-quality data collected at the NASQAN station to represent, on both a spatial and temporal basis, the water quality of the Hydrologic Accounting Unit upstream from the station; (4) if water-quality data at the NASQAN station do not represent water quality throughout the Hydrologic Accounting Unit, describe the minimum data-collection program necessary to do so; and (5) assess the usefulness of daily values versus periodic water-quality data for the above four objectives. Final reports for four of the projects are scheduled to be available at the beginning of FY 1984. The remaining four projects will be completed at the end of FY 1984. The NASQAN basins being studied are: Region Basin, State Project Completion NR West Branch Susquehanna River, PA Sept. 1983 NR Upper Mississippi River, MN Sept. 1984 SR Peace River, FL Sept. 1983 SR Green River, KY Sept. 1984 SR Tennessee River, TN Sept. 1984 CR Trinity River, TX Sept. 1984 CR San Juan River, NM Sept. 1983 WR Umpqua River, OR Sept. 1983 o Trend analysis of NASQAN and HBMN data is, and will continue to be, an important component of the recently implemented research component of the National Water- Quality Networks program. The Seasonal Kendall trend test developed by Branch staff and the WRD Systems Analysis Group is being used to detect and evaluate trends for 36 constituents at 364 NASQAN and HBMN stations. The trend analysis research is currently being directed at two major areas of concern. Historical changes in atmospheric sulfur dioxide emissions will be compared to long-term records of sulfate transport rates at HBMN stations. Also, basin characteristics data such as land use, population, point and non-point sources of pollution, etc., will be used to help explain water-quality trends at NASQAN stations. NEW PROGRAM INITIATIVES o After the cooperative USGS/EPA NASQAN Pesticide Subnetwork was discontinued in FY 1981, efforts were initiated by the WRD Organic Chemistry Task Group to design a National Organic Substances Monitoring Program (NOSMOP), which will tentatively be proposed for funding in FY 1985. There are 3 major phases in the present effort to design NOSMOP. Phase I involves ranking approximately 800 organic compounds to obtain a selective list of compounds for inclusion in NOSMOP. The 800 organic compounds to be ranked were selected based upon 15 criteria. The 15 criteria were selected such that they are indicative of compounds which are carcinogenic, or toxic, etc. and/or which are generally likely to enter the aquatic environment. Phase II involves the reconnaissance of acid and base/neutral extractable organic compounds in bottom material at 300 NASQAN stations during July-September, 1983. The objective of the reconnaissance is to document the occurrence and distribution of organic substances in bottom materials of major rivers throughout the United States. Meaningful results will be possible only for hydrophobic compounds, that is, those compounds strongly associated with either suspended or bottom material. Becau~e of limited funds and the fact that such compounds, if persistent in the aquatic environment, act as long-term integrators of water quality, analysis of bottom-material samples was preferred to analysis of water-phase samples. In Phase III, the results of both Phase I and Phase II will be assessed in relation to current analytical capabilities to determine the most comprehensive and cost-effective program to propose for funding. o Bob Hull of the New Mexico District is examining the purpose, goals, methods, and results of the various WRD radiochemical datia-collection programs. The investigation will also examine and identify new program needs and suggest alternatives as necessary. A final report is expected in early-mid FY 1986. ANALYTICAL METHODS DEVELOPMENT o Numerous analytical methods development studies are underway to meet present and future needs of the National Water-Quality Networks program. Such needs have been identified by: (l) assessment of historical water-quality data; (2) the WRD Ad Hoc Committee convened to evaluate the NASQAN program; (3) the Organic Chemistry Task Group; and (4) the Sediment Chemistry Task Group. The current analytical methods development projects for organic substances include: (l) obtaining extraction efficiency and precision data for base neutral/acid extractable compounds in water and sediments using various extraction techniques such as separatory funnel, soxhlet, and liquid-liquid extraction; (2) generation and compilation of analytical precision data for the New York District investigation to study effects of landfills on the Niagara River; (3) obtaining analytical precision data for ethylene and propane; (4) interlaboratory testing and validation of Central Laboratories 1300-series schedules; and (5) development of analytical procedures for screening samples for gas chromatography analyzable organic halides. o A second analytical methods development project is concerned with sediment chemistry. The Ad Hoc Committee to evaluate the NASQAN program expressed concern about the analytical procedures used to determine whole-water concentrations for metals. Even though it was recognized that the available procedures did not produce "total" concentrations, there was also some question as to what was actually obtained from the "total recoverable" procedures. The uncertainty regarding the data produced by the procedures was sufficient for the Ad Hoc Committee to recommend suspension of "total recoverable" analyses until such time as acceptable procedures were developed for analyzing sediment laden water. Beginning in FY 1983 "total" and "total recoverable" analysis of NASQAN and HBMN samples for trace metals was dropped. In order to address the need for improved analytical procedures for dealing with suspended sediment, a new methods development research project was established under the direction of the Quality of Water Branch. Art Horowitz is the project chief and he is conducting the reseach at the Central Laboratories facility in Doraville, Georgia. NEW DATA-ANALYSIS PROCEDURES o Doyle Stephens of the Utah District is developing a software system and documentation on the use and utility of cluster analysis procedures for the analysis of NASQAN phytoplankton data. The project will be completed September 1983, and a U.S. Geological Survey computer contribution series report will be available in 1984. o A one-year project was initiated in May 1983 by Chuck Robinove of the Ground Water Branch to determine if land cover change can be mapped from digital Landsat images and high altitude aerial photographs in sufficient detail and precision to determine if the water regime remains constant. The approach is to digitize land cover changes from Landsat images taken between 1972 and 1983 and to evaluate how well the changes are mapped and described. The mapping will be evaluated to determine if the method can and should be used on all HBMN drainage basins. INFORMATION PRODUCTS o The Water-Quality Networks Coordinator staff is working with the Distributed Information System (DIS) Section in the WRD Office of Computer Technology to put the National Networks data base on the WRD Scientific Publications and Data Management Prime minicomputer. Initially, the water quality data set will be stored in the format designed by the Kansas District for the interim water-quality data processing system. The daily-values data set will conform to the format established for the New Jersey surface-water processing system. Eventually the data will be converted to the National Water Data System (NWDS) format currently being designed by a special task force of WRD personnel. o In addition to the raw data files, the Headquarters staff is implementing the National Water-Quality Networks Station Information File (SIF) using INFO software. Work is continuing to enter the station information provided by the Districts as requested in the June 10, 1982 memorandum to the Districts. Once completed, the file, in conjunction with the file management capabilities of the INFO software, will provide a flexible and powerful tool for generating information reports on the operation of National Networks stations. Full use of the file will not be possible, however, until all Districts have submitted the questionaires sent to them last year. Districts which have not completed the questionaires are asked to do so as soon as practical. o As an aid in making use of NASQAN and HBMN data, Headquarters staff have been actively involved in the acquisition of computer software that provides user- friendly interactive access to the data for statistical, graphical and geographic analysis and tabular presentation of the data. Such a system called DATAGRAF is nearing completion on the Amdahl and plans are underway to put the system on the Prime. o The open Multics continuum "Nasqan" was established in June 1983 as a means to exchange ideas and information concerning operation of NASQAN and HBMN. District personnel are encouraged to use the continuum to ask questions or discuss common items of interest. An interesting feature of the meeting is the ongoing dialog between the eight areal profile project chiefs and Jim Slack (uncle STATI) of the Systems Analysis Group. Jim will attempt to answer questions on the application of statistical procedures to water-quality data. There are plans to establish a continuum meeting on the Prime some time in the future. o A large number of published reports have been prepared which are either directly or indirectly relevant to the WRD National Water-Quality Networks program. A list of these publications, including those in preparation, has been compiled and is presented in Appendix A. This listing is to be updated as appropriate, and all parties are encouraged to report errors or omissions to the National Networks Coordinator in the Quality of Water Branch. NETWORKS OPERATIONS, FY 1984 The NASQAN and HBMN data-collection programs will be operated essentially the same in FY 1984 as in FY 1983. District personnel should be aware of the following policies and procedures applicable to both NASQAN and HBMN for FY 1984. 1. The reconnaissance of organic compounds in bottom material at 300 NASQAN stations completed during the summer of 1983 will not be repeated in FY 1984. However, as per discussions with selected Districts, collection of selected reconnaissance samples will not be done until early October. Those Districts should therefore ensure that the reconnaissance samples are collected before mid October and forwarded to the appropriate Central Laboratory for analysis. Samples submitted to the lab after September 10, 1983 should have the analysis charged to account number 4060-14900. In addition, because unique numbers are not used for these samples, the State code and District/user code must be entered on the Central Laboratories Analytical Services Request Form. 2. The site sampling frequency has not been changed at any sites; all sites will be sampled on either a quarterly or bimonthly basis. The table below indicates the time periods for sample collection for both frequencies: QUARTERLY SITES BIMONTHLY SITES first sample OCTOBER-NOVEMBER-DECEMBER OCTOBER-NOVEMBER second sample JANUARY-FEBRUARY-MARCH DECEMBER-JANUARY third sample APRIL-MAY-JUNE FEBRUARY-MARCH fourth sample JULY-AUGUST-SEPTEMBER APRIL-MAY fifth sample -------------------- JUNE-JULY sixth sample -------------------- AUGUST-SEPTEMBER 3. Use of the inductively-coupled plasma (ICP) procedure for the analysis of selected dissolved common and trace inorganic constituents will continue to be utilized to decrease analytical costs. The procedure (schedule 176) will be used only for those constituents for which the ICP detection limit is at least as good as the atomic-absorption procedure. An exception is made for dissolved cobalt, which has a detection limit of 3 ug/L for the ICP procedure and 1 ug/L for the present atomic-absorption procedure. The ICP procedure is not to be used whenever the specific conductance is greater than 2,000 umhos because the detection limits become greater. Schedule 177 will be used for quarterly NASQAN samples and semiannual HBMN samples whenever the specific conductance is greater than 2,000 umhos. The WATSTORE codes for schedules 176 and 177 are the same; however, the analytical procedures and, therefore, the lab codes are different for selected constituents. Ninety (90) NASQAN stations and 1 HBMN station have been identified as stations where samples may possibly have specific conductance values greater than 2,000 umhos. Appendix B identifies the NASQAN and HBMN stations at which schedule 177 may be required in lieu of schedule 176. For each NASQAN or HBMN station listed in Appendix B, if there is a likelihood that the specific conductance will exceed 2,000 umhos, a "YES" is given under the right-hand side heading "SPECIFIC CONDUCTANCE > 2,000 UMHOS". A "NO" under the heading indicates that there is no likelihood that the specific conductance will exceed 2,000 umhos; for these stations, only schedule 176 is authorized. Because of the uncertainty involved in predicting the number of samples that will exceed 2,000 umhos, both schedules 176 and 177 are authorized for four uses at the 90 NASQAN stations and for two uses at the 1 HBMN site. It is to be clearly understood, however, that the actual number of usages authorized between schedules 176 and 177 is four, not eight, for NASQAN, and two, not four, for HBMN. The District Water-Quality Specialist has the ultimate authority and responsibility to request schedule 176 versus schedule 177. Because use of schedule 176 versus 177 is dependent solely upon the specific conductance of the sample, District Water-Quality Specialists should ensure that all field personnel are aware that: (l) a field specific conductance measurement is absolutely necessary whenever schedule 176 or 177 is to be utilized; and (2) the specific conductance of the sample should be determined with a meter that has been properly calibrated. 4. The barometric pressure in mm of mercury (Hg), (WATSTORE code 00025) is to continue to be measured in the field at the time of measurement of dissolved-oxygen concentration, and entered into WATSTORE. Be sure that the true atmospheric pressure existing at the time and elevation of measurement of dissolved-oxygen concentration is entered into WATSTORE; no correction to sea level should be made. This measurement was added so that the percent dissolved-oxygen saturation can be computed upon retrieval from WATSTORE. Trend analysis of percent saturation of dissolved oxygen is preferred to dissolved-oxygen concentration because it eliminates the variable effects of temperature, barometric pressure, and dissolved solids when comparing values over time or among stations. The barometric pressure must be measured with a barometer. Use of Thommen model 2000 pocket barometer is recommended, although an equivalent instrument is permitted. The Thommen model 2000 barometer is available from the Hydrologic Instrumentation Facility (HIF) in Bay St. Louis, Mississippi, at a cost of $160.00. Districts should contact HIF directly to order the necessary number of barometers. The accuracy of all field barometers should be checked at least two times per year, and whenever the barometer has been accidently dropped, etc. This should be done at a weather station or airport. To enable comparison among locations, the barometric pressure readings reported by airports and weather stations are adjusted to sea level, and must therefore be adjusted back to the elevation of the weather station or airport to ensure proper comparison with the true barometric pressure reading of the field barometer. The following table is given to compute the values to subtract from barometric readings which are reported to sea level in mm Hg, and thus determine the actual barometric pressure at the elevation of the weather station or airport. Elevation, NGVD of Value to subtract, 1929, in feet mm Hg O O 1,000 27 2,000 53 3,000 79 4.000 104 5,000 128 6,000 151 The left-hand column represents the elevation of the weather station or airport, and the right-hand column represents the values to subtract from the reported barometric pressure readings, and thereby obtain the true barometric pressure with which to compare with the field barometer. Atmospheric pressure does not decrease at a linear rate for increases in elevation. However, because the table is subdivided into classes of elevation, linear interpolation is acceptable within the ranges of given elevation (reference: Smithsonian Miscellaneous Collections, vol. 114, Smithsonian Meterological Tables, prepared by Robert J. Sist, published by the Smithsonian Institution, 1951). The following example is given to clarify the procedure to be used. You are at an airport and the existing barometric pressure is reported to be 744 mm Hg. The pocket barometer you use for field work reads 672 mm Hg. The elevation of the airport is 2,750 feet above sea level. The value to subtract from 744 mm Hg is computed as: correction = 53 + (2750-2000)/(3000-2000) * (79-53) = 72 Alternately, the values given in the table can be plotted and the necessary values to subtract can be read directly from the graph. The actual barometric pressure at the airport is thus 744 mm Hg minus 72 mm Hg, or 672 mm Hg. Because the pocket barometer reading is also 672 mm Hg, no correction is necessary for the pocket barometer. 5. Suspended-sediment samples for analysis of concentration and % finer than 0.062 mm should be collected at the same time that other water-quality samples are collected; i.e., the suspended-sediment sample should represent the water sample taken from the churn splitter, and the sample time of the suspended-sediment analyses should not be different from the sampling time of the other water-quality analyses. Whenever the suspended-sediment analyses are stored in WATSTORE with the same sample time as the other water-quality analyses, the WATSTORE sample medium code will be "9", i.e., surface water. When the suspended-sediment analyses are stored in WATSTORE with a separate sample time, the WATSTORE sample medium code will be "l" (one), i.e., suspended sediment. 6. Samples to be analyzed for inorganic constituents, etc., should be collected using the same sampling equipment and techniques as those used for the collection of suspended sediment samples, i.e., Equal Width Increment (EWI) procedure or Equal Discharge Increment (EDI) procedure, depth- integrating samplers, etc.; i.e., suspended-sediment samples should be collected in the same manner as the water sample for the churn splitter. 7. Cross-section surveys of water temperature, pH, specific conductance, and dissolved oxygen should be done at the sampling location during various seasons and surface-water discharges to document the general cross-sectional variation of water quality. Such information aids in the determination of how many samples in the cross section are necessary to ensure a representative composite sample. Cross-section surveys of suspendedsediment concentration should also be done to document variations. The results of such cross- section surveys should always be recorded in the appropriate station-analysis file. 8. Districts are reminded that all samples (excluding samples to be analyzed in a sediment laboratory for particle size or concentration) are to be sent to U.S. Geological Survey Central Laboratories with appropriate unique numbers. The necessary computer program documentation to retrieve unique numbers are given in Quality of Water Branch Technical Memorandum 79.15. New unique numbers are established at the beginning of each fiscal year and are to be used until September 30 of each fiscal year. Personnel collecting National-Networks samples should keep a current listing of the unique numbers in their field folder. 9. Any National-Networks sample processed by either Central Laboratory without a unique number will result in the analytical costs being billed to the default District account instead of the appropriate National Networks account. Correcting such billing errors after they occur requires a memorandum to the Coordinator, National Water-Quality Networks. It is to the benefit of each District, therefore, to be sure that the proper unique numbers are being used, and to periodically make retrievals of the unique numbers. 10. Districts are encouraged, but not required, to coordinate sampling trips with other District activities, especially stream gaging trips, to minimize field costs. A fixed- sampling time within each time period should, however, be the goal where feasible so that the original concept of a fixed-station, fixed-sampling interval monitoring network is maintained, and to the degree possible, random samples are collected. Exceptions to this rule can be made when conditions permit samples to be collected at high- or low-flow conditions at sites where the number of samples at streamflow extremes is limited. 11. Although the unique number, date, and time are all that are required on the Analytical Services Request Form (new name and format for old Log-Inventory form) used with the new Water-Quality File in WATSTORE, other information such as station name, special sampling conditions, National-Networks program (NASQAN, Bench-Mark), etc., are also helpful both to Central Laboratories personnel and District personnel processing the analytical results. 12. Schedule 1703, (user code = NQ) radiochemicals, no longer includes dissolved potassium because dissolved potassium is analyzed as part of either schedules 176, 177, or 1904. Users of this schedule should therefore ensure that if schedule 1703 is used for other than NASQAN or HBMN sampling, that dissolved potassium is requested as an add-on analysis if dissolved potassium is not analyzed as part of another schedule. 13. Districts are reminded of the importance to ensure that all NASQAN and HBMN stations be sampled for the same measurements as specified later in this memorandum. In particular, all field measurements specified should be done for each sample; exceptions to this rule are to be justified in writing to the National Water-Quality Networks Coordinator. NASQAN NASQAN stations to be operated during the period October 1, 1983 through September 30, 1984, are listed in Appendix B. No stations will be added or discontinued from 1983 FY. Effective October 1, 1983, NASQAN station 12318500, Kootenai River near Copeland, Idaho, is to be relocated to station 12322000, Kootenai River at Porthill, Idaho; also, NASQAN station 09520700, Gila River near Mouth, near Yuma, Arizona, is to be relocated to station 09520500, Gila River near Dome, Arizona. The following Hydrologic Accounting Units (with the respective state code) are not represented in the NASQAN program: MI-WI MO AZ AZ CA HI HI 040602 103002 150501 150803 180902 200300 200900 LA TX AZ UT CA HI PR 080701 121102 150503 160203 181001 200400 210200 LA WY AZ NV AK HI 080903 140402 150802 160600 190200 200800 If a District feels that any of these Hydrologic Accounting Units should be included in the NASQAN program, it should submit a detailed memorandum describing the proposed sampling site, basin characteristics, etc., to the National Networks Coordinator (with a copy to the Regional Hydrologist's office) justifying its recommendation. NASQAN Sampling Schedule for FY 1984 There will be 231 NASQAN stations sampled quarterly, and 270 NASQAN stations sampled bimonthly (see Appendix 8). Please notify the Quality of Water Branch if the District responsible for collection of samples for any NASQAN or HBMN station has changed recently and subsequently given incorrectly in Appendix B. NASQAN Sampling Schedule (Quarterly Stations) 4 per year - Field measurements: Instantaneous discharge (WATSTORE Code 00061) Specific conductance (WATSTORE Code 00095) Water temperature, !C (WATSTORE Code 00010) Barometric pressure (WATSTORE Code 00025) pH (WATSTORE Code 00400) Dissolved oxygen (WATSTORE Code 00300) Fecal coliform bacteria (WATSTORE Code 31625) Fecal streptococcal bacteria (WATSTORE Code 31673) 4 per year - Suspended sediment: concentration (WATSTORE Code 80154) % finer than 0.062 mm (WATSTORE Code 70331) 4 per year - Nutrients, lab schedule 86 4 per year - Physical properties, common and trace dissolved inorganic constituents: lab schedule 176 (SC < 2,000 umhos) or lab schedule 177 (SC > 2,000 umhos) Cross-section surveys of temperature, pH, SC, dissolved oxygen, and suspended sediment as needed. NASQAN Sampling Schedule (Bimonthly Stations) 6 per year - Field measurements (same as quarterly) 6 per year - Suspended sediment (same as quarterly) 6 per year - Nutrients, lab schedule 86 4 per year - Physical properties, common and trace dissolved inorganic constituents: lab schedule 176 (SC < 2,000 umhos) or lab schedule 177 (SC > 2,000 umhos) 2 per year - Physical properties and common dissolved inorganic constituents: lab schedule 1904 (not used when schedule 176 or 177 is used) Cross-section surveys of temperature, pH SC, dissolved oxygen, and suspended sediment as needed. NASQAN RADIOCHEMICAL SUBNETWORK NASQAN Radiochemical Subnetwork stations for FY 1984 are indicated in Appendix B by listing a "2" under the heading "SCHEDULE 1703 (RADIOCHEM)". Fifty-two NASQAN stations comprise the network as in the past. One sample should be collected at high-flow and one sample should be collected at low-flow as before. 2 per year - Radiochemicals, lab schedule 1703. HYDROLOGIC BENCH-MARK NETWORK Hydrologic Bench-Mark Network stations with water-quality sampling in FY 1984 are listed in Appendix B. No stations have been added to or dropped from the network. Forty-three (43) HBMN stations will be sampled quarterly and 9 HBMN stations will be sampled bimonthly. All HBMN stations will be analyzed for the same properties and constituents. Previously, unlike monthly or bimonthly samples, quarterly HBMN stations were not sampled and analyzed for pesticides, radiochemicals, or trace inorganic constituents. The field measurements and analytical schedules used for the HBMN program are the same as for the NASQAN program. The specific conductance is likely to exceed 2,000 umhos at only one HBMN station (Bear Den Creek at Mandaree, ND). Therefore, this site may require schedule 177 for analysis of semiannual dissolved common and trace inorganic constituents. All other stations will require use of schedule 176 for analysis of these constituents. HYDROLOGIC BENCH-MARK NETWORK SAMPLING SCHEDULE (Quarterly Sites) 4 per year - Field Measurements: Instantaneous discharge (WATSTORE Code 00061) Specific conductance (WATSTORE Code 00095) Water temperature, !C (WATSTORE Code 00010) Barometric pressure, mm Hg (WATSTORE Code 00025) pH (WATSTORE Code 00400) Dissolved oxygen (WATSTORE Code 00300) Fecal coliform bacteria (WATSTORE Code 31625) Fecal streptococcal bacteria (WATSTORE Code 31673) 4 per year - Suspended sediment: concentration (WATSTORE Code 80154) % finer than 0.062 mm (WATSTORE Code 70331) 4 per year - Nutrients, lab schedule 86 2 per year - Physical properties, common and trace dissolved inorganic constituents: lab schedule 176 (SC < 2,000 umhos) or lab schedule 177 (SC > 2,000 umhos) 2 per year - Physical properties and common dissolved inorganic constituents: lab schedule 1904 (not used when schedule 176 or 177 is used). 1 per year - Radiochemicals, lab schedule 1703 Cross-section surveys of temperature, pH, specific conductance dissolved oxygen, and suspended sediment as needed. HYDROLOGIC BENCH-MARK NETWORK SAMPLING SCHEDULE (Bimonthly Sites) 6 per year - Field measurements (same as quarterly sites) 6 per year - Suspended sediment (same as quarterly sites) 6 per year - Nutrients, lab schedule 86 2 per year - Physical properties, common and trace dissolved inorganic constituents: lab schedule 176 (SC < 2,000 umhos) or lab schedule 177 (SC > 2,000 umhos) 4 per year - Physical properties and common dissolved inorganic constituents: lab schedule 1904 (not used when schedule 176 or 177 is used). 1 per year - Radiochemicals, lab schedule 1703 Cross-section surveys of temperature, pH, SC, dissolved oxygen, and suspended sediment as needed. For the purpose of distribution of this memorandum, District and Subdistrict offices will receive only that portion of Appendix B that pertains to their respective District. All others on the distribution list will receive a complete copy of Appendix B. District and Subdistrict Chiefs are requested to ensure that all personnel in their various offices (especially field offices) responsible for collecting water-quality samples for NASQAN and HBMN read and understand the contents of this memorandum. For their convenience, all of the pertinent Central Laboratory analytical schedules are given in Appendix C. Should there be any questions concerning the operation of these networks, please contact Jim Schornick or Mike Yurewicz of my staff (FTS 928-6834). R. J. Pickering Attachments WRD Distribution: A, S, FO, PO Key Words: Water quality, networks, project activities, sampling, NASQAN, Bench-Mark, FY 1984. This memorandum does not supersede any previous memorandum. Appendix A Publications either directly or indirectly relevant to U.S. Geological Survey National Water-Quality Networks. [Sorted by year of publication] Planned Reports: (Years given for planned reports are tentative) 1983 The Ohio State University, Department of Civil Engineering, 1983, Analysis of NASQAN water-quality data in the Ohio River basin: Adequacy of NASQAN: Completion report for U.S. Geological Survey Contract No. 14-08-0001-G-682, vol. 5. Britton, L. J., Goddard, K. E., and Briggs, J. C., 1983, Quality of rivers of the United States, 1976 Water Year-- Based on the National Stream Quality Accounting Network (NASQAN): U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Report 80-594. Cohen, Philip, 1983, Statement before the Subcommittee on Natural Resources, Agriculture Research and Environment Committee on Science and Technology, U.S. House of Representatives, May 19, 1983: U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Report xx-xxx. Goetz, C. L., 1983, Areal and temporal variation of water quality in NASQAN Accounting Unit 140801, New Mexico and Colorado: U.S. Geological Survey Water Resources Investigations xx-xxx. Hainly, R. A., Ward, J. R., Wetzel, K. L., and Truhlar, J. F., 1983, Water quality in the West Branch Susquehanna River basin, Pennsylvania: An appraisal of areal and temporal variability in NASQAN Accounting Unit 020502: U.S. Geological Survey Water Resources Investigations xx-xxx. Lawrence, C. L., 1983, Streamflow characteristics at Hydrologic Bench-Mark stations: U.S. Geological Survey Circular xxx. Ritter, J. R., 1983, Spatial and temporal variability of acidity in two small basins: U.S. Geological Survey Water Resources Investigations xx-xxx . Schiffer, D. M., 1983, Appraisal of water quality within the Peace River basin: U.S. Geological Survey Water Resources Investigations xx-xxx. Wells, F. C., and Schertz, T. L., 1983, Statistical summary of daily values data and trend analysis of dissolved-solids data at National Stream Quality Accounting Network (NASQAN) stations: U.S. Geological Survey Water Resources Investigations 83-4172. Wentz, D. A., 1983, Quality of water of Hydrologic Bench-Marks--1963-1979 Water Years: U.S. Geological Survey Circular xxx. Appendix A--Continued 1984 Buell, G. R., and Grams, Suzie, 1984, Evaluation of changes in surfacewater quality through a comparative analysis of time series trends: U.S. Geological Survey Water Resources Investigations or U. S. Geological Survey Professional Paper. Evaldi, R. D., and Lewis, J. G., 1984, Water-quality appraisal above Watts Dam, Tennessee: An areal and temporal variability study of a NASQAN basin: U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Report xx-xxx. Have, M. R., 1984, A water-quality assessment of the Upper Mississippi River basin from Royalton, Minnesota to Hastings, Minnesota: U.S. Geological Survey Water Resources Investigations xx-xxx. Houghton, R. L., 1984, Effects of energy development on trace element concentrations in Hydrologic Bench-Mark streams: U.S. Geological Survey Water Resources Investigations xx-xxx. Leist, D. W., 1984, An evaluation of water-quality data from Green River basin, Kentucky: U.S. Geological Survey Water Resources Investigations xx-xxx. Miller, T. L., and Clifton, D. G., 1984, Analysis of Hydrologic Bench-Mark Network discharge data: U.S. Geological Survey Water Resources Investigations xx-xxx. Rinella, J. F., 1984, Water quality in the Umpqua River basin: Evaluation of NASQAN data: U.S. Geological Survey Water Resources Investigations xx -xxx . Robinove, C. J., 1984, Mapping land cover change at Hydrologic Bench-Mark sites with Landsat digital images: to be published tentatively as a journal article. Stevens, Doyle, and Wangsgard, James, 1984, User's manual for cluster analysis using NT-SYE: U.S. Geological Survey Computer Contribution Series Report. Wells, F. C., Shelby, W. J., and Rawson, Jack, 1984, Areal and temporal variations of surface-water quality in Upper Trinity River basin, Texas: U.S. Geological Survey Water Resources Investigations xx-xxx. 1986 Hull, R. W., 1986, Statistical analysis and evaluation of the U. S. Geological Survey radiochemical surveillance networks: U.S. Geological Survey Water Resources Investigations xx-xxx. Published Reports: 1962 Leopold, L. B., 1962, A national network of Hydrologic Bench-Marks: U.S Geological Survey Circular 460-B, 4 p. Appendix A--Continued 1972 Janzer, V. J., and Saindon, L. G., 1972, Radiochemical analyses of surface water for U. S. Geological Survey Hydrologic Bench-Mark stations: U.S. Geological Survey Open-File release, January 14, 1972, 41 p. 1973-1982 Council on Environmental Quality, 1973-1982, Environmental quality: Annual reports of the Council on Environmental Quality, Washington, D. C., U. S. Government Printing Office. 1973 Crump-Wiesner, H. J., Feltz, H. R., and Yates, M. L., 1973, A study of the distribution of polychlorinated biphenyls in the aquatic environment: Jour. Research U.S. Geological Survey, vol. 1, no. 5, p. 603-607. 1974 Steele, T. D., Gilroy, E. J., and Hawkinson, R. 0., 1974, An assessment of areal and temporal variations in streamflow quality using selected data from the National Stream Quality Accounting Network: U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Report 74-217, 210 p. 1975 Biesecker, J. E., and Leifeste, D. K., 1975, Water quality of Hydrologic Bench Marks- An indicator of water qUdlity in the natural environment: U.S. Geological Survey Circular 460-E, 21 p. Ficke, J. F., and Hawkinson, R. 0., 1975, The National Stream Quality Accounting Network (NASQAN)- Some questions and answers: U.S. Geological Survey Circular 719, 23 p. 1976 Cragwell, J. S., Jr., 1976, The National Stream Quality Accounting Network: The Military Engineer, vol. 68, no. 441, p. 25-27. Pickering, R. J., and Ficke, J. F., 1976, Design of nationwide water-quality-monitoring networks: American Water Works Association Journal, vol. 68, no. 2, p. 82-85. 1977 Briggs, J. C., and Ficke, J. F., 1977, Quality of rivers of the United States, 1975 Water Year-- Based on the National Stream Quality Accounting Network (NASQAN): U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Report 78-200, 435 p. Hawkinson, R. 0., Ficke, J. F., and Saindon, L. G., 1977, Quality of rivers of the United States, 1974 Water Year-- Based on the National Stream Quality Accounting Network (NASQAN): U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Report 77-151, 157 p. 1978 Briggs, J. C., 1978, Nationwide surface water quality monitoring networks of the U.S. Geological Survey: American Water Resources Association Symposium Proceedings, June 12-14, p. 49-57. Ficke, J. F., and Reisa, J. J., 1978. An overview of U. S. stream quality in 1975-76-- First results from the National Stream Quality Accounting Network (NASQAN): Proceedings of the 4th Joint Conference on Sensing of Environmental Pollutants, New Orleans, La., Nov. 6-11, 1977, Published in Wash. D. C. American Chem. Soc. Paper 070, p. 250-253. Appendix A--Continued 1980 Hushon, J., Clerman, R., Small, R., Sood, S., Taylor, A., and Thoman, D., 1980, An assessment of potentially carcinogenic, energy-related contaminants in water: Mitre Corporation, 381 p. 1981 Comptroller General, 1981, Better monitoring techniques are needed to assess the quality of rivers and streams: Report to the Congresss to the United States, report CED-81-30, vol. 1, April 30, 120 p. Comptroller General, 1981, Better monitoring techniques are needed to assess the quality of rivers and streams: Report to the Congress of the United States, report CED-81-30, vol. 2, April 30, 205 p. 1982 Brashares, Edith, Harrington, Winston, Hecht, Joy, Krupnick, Alan, Peskin, Henry, and Yardas, David, 1982, A survey of available data and methods for developing environmental asset accounts: Resources for the Future, Inc., Report for the National Science Foundation, 175 p. Hirsch, R. M., Slack, J. R., and Smith, R. A., 1982, Techniques of trend analysis for monthly water-quality data: Water Resources Research, vol. 18, no. 1, p. 107-121. Smith, R. A., Hirsch, R. M., and Slack, J. R., 1982, A study of trends in total phosphorus measurements at NASQAN stations: U.S. Geological Survey Water-Supply Paper 2190, 34 p. Smith, R. A., and Alexander, R. B., 1982, A study of trends in dissolved oxygen and fecal coliform bacteria at NASQAN stations: Open-File Report 82-1019, 6 p. Whitlatch, E. E., Ricca, V. T., Stiefel, R. C., and Sykes, R. M., 1982, Analysis of NASQAN water-quality data in the Ohio River basin: Data sources and data reduction techniques: The Ohio State University, Department of Civil Engineering, Completion report for U.S. Geological Survey Contract No. 14-08-0001-G-682, vol. 1, September, 109 p. Whitlatch, E. E., Ricca, V. T., Stiefel, R. C., and Sykes, R. M., 1982, Analysis of NASQAN water-quality data in the Ohio River basin: Data presentation and basin descriptions: The Ohio State University, Department of Civil Engineering, Completion report for U.S. Geological Survey Contract No. 14-08-0001-G-682, vol. 2, October, 255 p. Whitlatch, E. E., Sykes, R. M., and Shaffer, T. R., 1982, Analysis of NASQAN water-quality data in the Ohio River basin: Statistical analysis of water-quality data: The Ohio State University, Department of Civil Engineering, Completion report for U.S. Geological Survey Contract No. 14-08-0001-G-682, vol. 3, December, 245 p. 1983 Koh, R. C. Y., Brooks, N. H., Vanoni, V. A., and Taylor, B. D., 1983, Evaluation of the utility of sediment data in NASQAN: Environmental Quality Laboratory, California Institute of Technology, Completion report for U.S. Geological Survey Contract No. 14-08-0001-17541, EQL Memorandum No. 23, June, 95 p. Appendix A--Continued Langford, R. H., 1983, The Geological Survey's program for determining the status of the nation's water quality: The research needs of the Clean Water Act, hearings before the Subcommittee on Natural Resources, Agriculture Research and Environment of the Committee on Science and Technology, U.S. House of Representatives, 97th Congress, 2nd Session, June 8-10, 1982, p. 83-115: Written questions from the subcommittee, and written answers submitted for the record regarding the hearing, are given in Appendix I, p. 264-291, of the same reference. Rogers, Peter, 1983, The future of water: Atlantic Monthly, July 1983, p. 80-92. Sanders, T. G., Ward, R. C., Loftis, J. C., Steele, T. D., Adrian, D. D., and Yevjevich, Vujica, 1983, Design of networks for monitoring water quality: Water Resources Publications, 336 p. Smith, R. A., and Alexander, R. B., 1983, Evidence for acid-precipitationinduced trends in stream chemistry at Hydrologic Bench-Mark stations: U.S. Geological Survey Circular 910, 12 p. Smith, R. A., and Alexander, R. B., 1983, A statistical summary of data from the U.S. Geological Survey's national water-quality networks: U.S. Geological Survey Open-File Report 83-533, 714 p. Whitlatch, E. E., Sykes, R. M., and Martin, M. J., 1983, Analysis of NASQAN water-quality data in the Ohio River basin: Correlation and regression analysis between disaggregated basin characteristics and water-quality: The Ohio State University, Department of Civil Engineering, Completion report for U.S. Geological Survey Contract No. 14-08-0001-G-682, vol. 4, May, 146 p. APPENDIX C NUTRIENTS, LAB SCHEDULE 86 SCHEDULE NUMBER 86 USER NQ TYPE WN # OF CODES 6 LC WATSTORE NAME S-DESIG. 228 00631 NITROGEN, DIS., N02+N03 AS N FC 301 00608 NITROGEN, DIS., NH4 AS N FC 162 00671 PHOSPHORUS, DIS., ORTHO AS P FC 128 00666 PHOSPHORUS, DIS. FC 84 00625 NITROGEN, NH4+0RG AS N, TOTAL RC 129 00665 PHOSPHORUS, TOTAL RC ****** SAMPLE TYPE AND VOLUME INFORMATION ****** VOLUME TYPE VOLUME TYPE VOLUME TYPE VOLUME TYPE 250 ML FC 250 ML RC * * RADIOCHEMICALS SCHEDULE NUMBER 1703 LIMITED USER NQ TYPE WR # OF CODES 9 LC WATSTORE NAME S-DESIG. 1131 00000 FILTRATION GROSS-B RUC 444 80030 GROSS ALPHA DIS. U-NA RUC 446 80040 GROSS ALPHA SUS. U-NA RUC 455 03515 GROSS-B, DIS. CS137 RUC 445 80050 GROSS-B, DIS. SR-90 RUC 456 03516 GROSS-B, SUSP. CS137 RUC 447 80060 GROSS-B, SUSP. SR-90 RUC 449 09511 RADIUM-226, DIS. RN RUC~ 797 80O20 U.DIS. FL-EXT. GR-W RUC ****** SAMPLE TYPE AND VOLUME INFORMATION ****** VOLUME TYPE VOLUME TYPE VOLUME TYPE VOLUME TYPE 4 L RUC * * * Appendix C--Continued PHYSICAL PROPERTIES, COMMON AND TRACE DISSOLVED INORGANIC CONSTITUENTS SCHEDULE NUMBER 176 LMT'D FIXED USER NQ TYPE WI LC WATSTORE NAME S-DESIG. 112 01000 ARSENIC, DIS. FA 4 01106 ALUMIUM, DIS. FA 641 01005 BARIUM, DIS. FA 655 01010 BERYLLIUM, DIS. FA 673 01025 CADIUM, DIS. FA 146 01030 CHROMIUM, DIS. FA 644 01035 COBALT, DIS. FA 22 01040 COPPER, DIS. FA 545 01046 IRON, DIS. FA 38 01049 LEAD, DIS. FA 664 01130 LITHIUM, DIS. FA 648 01056 MANGANESE, DIS. FA 226 71890 MERCURY, DIS. FA 649 01060 MOLYBDENUM, DIS. FA 44 01065 NICKEL, DIS. FA 87 01145 SELENIUM, DIS. FA 166 01075 SILVER, DIS. FA LC WATSTORE NAME S-DESIG. 652 01080 STRONTIUM, DIS. FA 653 01085 VANADIUM, DIS. FA 671 01090 ZINC, DIS. FA 659 00915 CALCIUM, DIS. FA 663 00925 MAGNESIUM, DIS. FA 675 00930 SODIUM DIS. FA 54 00935 POTASSIUM, DIS. FA 667 00955 SILICA, DIS. FU 1200 00945 SULFATE, DIS. FU 31 00950 FLUORIDE, DIS. FU 15 00940 CHLORIDE, DIS. FU 27 70300 ROE, DIS. AT 180 C FU 68 00403 pH, (LABORATORY) RU 69 90095 SP. CONDUCTANCE, LAB RU 50 00076 TURBIDITY, NTU LC0050 70 90410 ALK, TOT LAB CA03 RU 642 00000 METALS, DIS. CHE-EXT FA ****** SAMPLE TYPE AND VOLUME INFORMATION ****** VOLUME TYPE VOLUME TYPE VOLUME TYPE VOLUME TYPE 1 L FA 500 ML FU 100 ML LC0050 250 ML RU COMMON CONSTITUENTS SCHEDULE NUMBER 1904 USER NQ TYPE WI # OF CODES 13 LC WATSTORE NAME S-DESIG. 12 00915 CALCIUM, DIS. FA 40 00925 MAGNESIUM, DIS. FA 54 00935 POTASSIUM, DIS. FA 56 00955 SILICA, DIS. FU 59 00930 SODIUM, DIS. FA 15 00940 CHLORIDE, DIS. FU 31 00950 FLUORIDE, DIS. FU LC WATSTORE NAME S-DESIG. 27 70300 ROE, DIS. AT 180C FU 1200 00945 SULFATE, DIS. FU 70 90410 ALK TOT LAB. CAC03 RU 68 00403 pH (LABORATORY) RU 69 90095 SP. CONDUCTANCE LAB RU 50 00076 TURBIDITY (NTU) LC0050 ****** SAMPLE TYPE AND VOLUME INFORMATION ****** VOLUME TYPE VOLUME TYPE VOLUME TYPE VOLUME TYPE 250 ML FA 250 ML FU 250 ML RU 100 ML LC0050 Appendix C--Continnued PHYSICAL PROPERTIES, COMMON AND TRACE DISSOLVED INORGANIC CONSTITUENTS SCHEDULE NUMBER 177 LMT'D FIXED USER NQ TYPE WI LC WATSTORE NAME S-DESIG. 112 01000 ARSENIC, DIS. FA 4 01106 ALUMINUM, DIS. FA 7 01005 BARIUM, DIS. FA 170 01010 BERYLLIUM, DIS. FA 73 01025 CADMIUM, DIS. FA 146 01030 CHROMIUM, DIS. FA 18 01035 COBALT, DIS. FA 22 01040 COPPER, DIS. FA 172 01046 IRON, DIS. FA 38 01049 LEAD, DIS. FA 39 0130 LITHIUM, DIS. FA 42 01056 MANGANESE, DIS. FA 226 71890 MERCURY, DIS. FA 110 01060 MOLYBDENUM DIS. FA 44 01065 NICKEL, DIS. FA 87 01145 SELENIUM, DIS. FA 166 01075 SILVER, DIS. FA 62 01080 STRONTIUM, DIS. FA LC WATSTORE NAME S-DESIG. 111 01085 VANADIUM, DIS. FA 67 01090 ZINC, DIS. FA 12 00915 CALCIUM, DIS. FA 40 00925 MAGNESIUM, DIS. FA 59 00930 SODIUM, DIS. FA 54 00935 POTASSIUM, DIS. FA 56 00955 SILICA, DIS. FU 1200 00945 SULFATE, DIS. FU 31 00950 FLUORIDE, DIS. FU 15 00940 CHLORIDE, DIS. FU 27 70300 ROE, DIS. AT 180 C FU 68 00403 pH, (LABORATORY) RU 69 90095 SP. CONDUCTANCE, LAB RU 50 00076 TURBIDITY, NTU LCOOSO 70 90410 ALK TOT. LAB RU 645 00000 METALS, DIS. CHE-EXT FA ****** SAMPLE TYPE AND VOLUME INFORMATION ****** VOLUME TYPE VOLUME TYPE VOLUME TYPE VOLUME TYPE 1 L FA 500 ML FU 100 ML LCOOSO 250 ML RU