water source what it measures natural readings danger readings source remedies
dissolved oxygen
amount of oxygen in the water
7-14 PPM

3-5 = stress

1-2 = poor

0=anoxic
  • wind
  • waves
  • running water
  • control nutrient content, algae growth
  • more wind and water movement

pH

acid base of the water

 generally 6.5-8.5 below 6.5: above 8.5
  • acid rain
  • industrial pollutions
  • chemical spills

pollution controls

 
Phosphates and Nitrates amount of these nutrients in the water

0.0-0.65 PPM

0.0-0.08

 any reading higher than normal
  • sewage, industry
  • detergents
  • fertilizer, animal wasters
  • removal by water treatment
  • restrictive or banned use
Temperature average amount of heat in the water varies generally above 27 C (81 F) (>24 C for trout streams
  • waste heat
  • solar heat
cooling towers etc. (decreased T also increases DO)
Turbidity clearness of the water 80-120 cm (0-8 JTU, Jackson Turbidity Units) increased turbidity
  • sediment
  • excessive algae growth
  • boat traffic, storms, etc.
  • sediment controls
  • reduced nutrients to reduce algae
  • boat speed limits