Water Quality

Water Quality is a tentatively scheduled event for the 2012 season. In the past it was an event on the subject of water quality. One important component was the understanding and ability to identify certain aquatic invertebrates and the indications on the quality of the water based on their presence.

First, what is Water quality anyway? Water quality is the physical, chemical and biological characteristics of water. In countries around the world, especially here in America under the EPA, certain standards are set to determine which water is potable.

Lets first discuss the four types of water. The types of water are based off of salt concentrations, usually measured in ppt (parts per thousand). Fresh water is usually considered to have a ppt of <0.5. Brackish water is between 0.5 and 30 ppt. Saline water has a ppt of 30 to 50, and Brine is >50 ppt. The only water safe for human consumption is fresh water.