MD DNR Continuous Water Quality Monitoring Project 2015

Metadata also available as - [Parseable text] - [XML]

Metadata:

Identification_Information:
Citation:
Citation_Information:
Originator:
Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Resource Assessment Service (MD DNR RAS)
Publication_Date: 20160511
Title: MD DNR Continuous Water Quality Monitoring Project 2015
Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form: Spatial dataset
Description:
Abstract:
Water quality was monitored at twenty-nine Maryland shallow water sites located in Chesapeake Bay, Chesapeake Bay tributaries and Maryland Coastal Bay tributaries during 2015. YSI (6600 V2 or EXO2) data loggers sampled seven environmental parameters: water temperature, specific conductance, dissolved oxygen concentration, oxygen percent saturation, pH, turbidity and fluorescence. Water depth was measured at stations where loggers were deployed at fixed depths. Salinity and chlorophyll were derived from specific conductance and fluorescence, respectively. Each parameter was sampled at 15-minute intervals, except at stations XEF3551 and XFG4618. The surface and bottom monitors at station XEF3551 and the monitor at station XFG4618 sampled parameters at 60-minute intervals for the entire deployment. The number of days that data were collected at individual stations ranged from ninety-one to three hundred sixty-five.
Data loggers at most stations were exchanged bi-weekly. Data Loggers deployed from November through March were exchanged monthly because less biofouling, which may compromise data integrity, occurs during cold weather months. Data loggers deployed greater than 10m below the surface at station XEF3551 were exchanged monthly. Data loggers deployed in a contained lake at station MZC0016 were exchanged monthly. Loggers were deployed simultaneously at two depths at stations XEF3551 and XHH4931.
When data loggers were exchanged, water samples for pigments, nutrients and suspended solids were collected for later analysis. At the same time, Secchi disk depth was measured and a Hydrolab (series IVa or V) water quality sonde was used to collect discrete water temperature, salinity, dissolved oxygen and pH data. Light attenuation was also measured using a LiCor instrument.
Purpose:
The Maryland Department of Natural Resources Shallow Water Monitoring program is part of a cooperative effort between the Federal government and State and local governments in the Chesapeake Bay watershed to assess the ambient water quality criteria for dissolved oxygen, chlorophyll and water clarity in shallow water habitats. The Shallow Water Monitoring Program includes two components, the Water Quality Mapping Project and the Continuous Water Quality Monitoring Project.
Continuous Water Quality monitoring data describe the 2015 state of twenty-nine shallow water sites on Chesapeake Bay and Maryland Coastal Bay tributaries using key water quality indicators.
The information is integrated with data from other Bay water quality stations and living resources monitoring projects and used to understand linkages, temporal variation and long-term trends.
Water quality data are used to refine, calibrate and validate Chesapeake Bay ecological models. The models are used to develop and assess water quality criteria with the goal of removing the Chesapeake Bay and its tidal rivers from the list of impaired waters.
Supplemental_Information:
The target audiences for this information include Resource Managers, Technical/Scientific Users, Government, Educators, Students and General Public.
Data users who desire very detailed information about Water Quality Monitoring data definition, sampling procedures and data processing are encouraged to refer to the documents listed below.
Water Quality Database - Database Design and Data Dictionary Prepared For: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region III, Chesapeake Bay Program Office, January 2004. <http://www.chesapeakebay.net/documents/3676/cbwqdb2004_rb.pdf>
Guide to Using Chesapeake Bay Program Water Quality Monitoring Data, EPA 903-R-12-001, February 2012, CBP/TRS 304-12 <http://www.chesapeakebay.net/documents/3676/wq_data_userguide_10feb12_mod.pdf>
Quality Assurance Project Plan for the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Chesapeake Bay Shallow Water Quality Monitoring Program, for the period July 1, 2015 - June 30, 2016, can be found using publication type 'Quality Assurance Project Plan' to search the monitoring stories and publications page of <http://www.eyesonthebay.net>
Time_Period_of_Content:
Time_Period_Information:
Range_of_Dates/Times:
Beginning_Date: 20150101
Ending_Date: 20151231
Currentness_Reference: Ground condition
Status:
Progress: Complete
Maintenance_and_Update_Frequency: As needed
Spatial_Domain:
Bounding_Coordinates:
West_Bounding_Coordinate: -79.4938
East_Bounding_Coordinate: -75.0405
North_Bounding_Coordinate: 39.7425
South_Bounding_Coordinate: 37.8713
Keywords:
Theme:
Theme_Keyword_Thesaurus:
Global Change Master Directory (GCMD). 2015. GCMD Keywords, Version 8.1. Greenbelt, MD: Global Change Data Center, Science and Exploration Directorate, Goddard Space Flight Center (GSFC) National Aeronautics and Space Administration (NASA). Online: <http://gcmd.nasa.gov/learn/keywords.html>
Theme_Keyword: Biosphere > Aquatic Ecosystems > Estuarine Habitat
Theme_Keyword: Biosphere > Aquatic Ecosystems > Rivers/Stream Habitat
Theme_Keyword:
Biosphere > Ecological Dynamics > Ecosystem Functions > Nutrient Cycling
Theme_Keyword:
Biosphere > Ecological Dynamics > Ecosystem Functions > Primary Production
Theme_Keyword: Terrestrial Hydrosphere > Surface Water > Rivers/Streams
Theme_Keyword:
Terrestrial Hydrosphere > Water Quality/Water Chemistry > Chlorophyll
Theme_Keyword:
Terrestrial Hydrosphere > Water Quality/Water Chemistry > Conductivity
Theme_Keyword:
Terrestrial Hydrosphere > Water Quality/Water Chemistry > Light Transmission
Theme_Keyword:
Terrestrial Hydrosphere > Water Quality/Water Chemistry > Nitrogen Compounds
Theme_Keyword:
Terrestrial Hydrosphere > Water Quality/Water Chemistry > Oxygen
Theme_Keyword:
Terrestrial Hydrosphere > Water Quality/Water Chemistry > Nutrients
Theme_Keyword: Terrestrial Hydrosphere > Water Quality/Water Chemistry > pH
Theme_Keyword:
Terrestrial Hydrosphere > Water Quality/Water Chemistry > Phosphorous Compounds
Theme_Keyword:
Terrestrial Hydrosphere > Water Quality/Water Chemistry > Suspended Solids
Theme_Keyword:
Terrestrial Hydrosphere > Water Quality/Water Chemistry > Turbidity
Theme_Keyword:
Terrestrial Hydrosphere > Water Quality/Water Chemistry > Water Temperature
Place:
Place_Keyword_Thesaurus: Producer Defined
Place_Keyword: United States
Place_Keyword: Maryland
Place_Keyword: Chesapeake Bay Watershed
Place_Keyword: Chesapeake Bay
Place_Keyword: Anne Arundel County
Place_Keyword: Baltimore City
Place_Keyword: Baltimore County
Place_Keyword: Calvert County
Place_Keyword: Caroline County
Place_Keyword: Cecil County
Place_Keyword: Charles County
Place_Keyword: Harford County
Place_Keyword: Kent County
Place_Keyword: Prince George's County
Place_Keyword: Queen Anne's County
Place_Keyword: Somerset County
Place_Keyword: St. Mary's County
Place_Keyword: Talbot County
Place_Keyword: Worcester County
Place_Keyword: Assawoman Bay
Place_Keyword: Back River
Place_Keyword: Bush River
Place_Keyword: C&D Canal
Place_Keyword: Chincoteague Bay
Place_Keyword: Choptank River
Place_Keyword: Coastal Bays
Place_Keyword: Corsica River
Place_Keyword: Harris Creek
Place_Keyword: Mattawoman Creek
Place_Keyword: Patapsco River
Place_Keyword: Patuxent River
Place_Keyword: Potomac River
Place_Keyword: Sassafras River
Place_Keyword: Susquehanna Flats
Place_Keyword: Susquehanna River
Place_Keyword: Wicomico River
Place_Keyword: Williston Lake
Temporal:
Temporal_Keyword_Thesaurus: None
Temporal_Keyword: 2015
Access_Constraints: None
Use_Constraints:
Acknowledgement of the MD Department of Natural Resources, Resource Assessment Service as a data source would be appreciated in products developed from these data. Please use the following citation: Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Resource Assessment Service. Eyes on the Bay. URL: <http://www.eyesonthebay.net>.
Point_of_Contact:
Contact_Information:
Contact_Person_Primary:
Contact_Person: Mark Trice
Contact_Position: Chief, Water Quality Informatics
Contact_Address:
Address_Type: Mailing Address
Address: MDDNR, 580 Taylor Avenue, D2
City: Annapolis
State_or_Province: MD
Postal_Code: 21401
Contact_Voice_Telephone: 410 260-8630
Contact_Electronic_Mail_Address:
Mark.Trice_nospam_@maryland.gov[Remove _nospam_ for valid email address]
Browse_Graphic:
Browse_Graphic_File_Name:
MDDNR Continuous Monitoring Project 2015 Station Map can be found using publication type 'map' to search the monitoring stories and publications page of <http://www.eyesonthebay.net>

Browse_Graphic_File_Description:
Map of twenty-nine 2015 Continuous Monitoring Sites.
Browse_Graphic_File_Type: PDF
Data_Set_Credit:
Maryland Department of Natural Resources (MDDNR) Resource Assessment Service (RAS) staff collected the majority of samples and processed the data. The Nutrient Analytical Services Laboratory (NASL) at the Chesapeake Biological Laboratory (Univ. of MD) analyzed the nutrient, chlorophyll and suspended solids samples.
The project was made possible with funding provided by The State of Maryland, the United States Environmental Protection Agency Chesapeake Bay Program, the National Atmospheric and Oceanic Administration Chesapeake Bay Office and National Estuarine Research Reserve System program, and the Dominion Foundation.
Data_Quality_Information:
Attribute_Accuracy:
Attribute_Accuracy_Report:
Quality Assurance/Quality Control: MD DNR followed specific procedures to ensure that the Shallow Water Quality Monitoring Program project design was properly implemented and managed with sufficient accuracy, precision and detection limits. Accuracy (closeness to the true value) of collected data was controlled and assured by the proper use, calibration and maintenance of both field and laboratory equipment for the measurement of physical and chemical parameters.
The YSI 6600 V2 sondes were configured with the following probes: 6560(conductivity/temperature); 6561(flat glass pH) or 6579(tall pH); 6136(turbidity); 6150(ROX dissolved oxygen); 6025(fluorescence/chlorophyll). Sondes at one site (XHH3851) were also configured with 6132 (blue-green phycoerythrin) probes and sondes at three additional sites (MZC0016, XEA3687, and XJI2396) were also configured with 6131 (blue-green phycocyanin) probes.
The YSI EXO2 sondes were configured with the following probes: 599870-01(conductivity/temperature); 599702(unguarded pH); 599101-01(turbidity); 599100-01(optical dissolved oxygen); 599103-01(total algal chlorophyll and phycoerythrin).
Resolution, range and accuracy specifications for the sonde and probes may be obtained from the manufacturer. <http://www.ysi.com/support.php>
Procedures used to control and assure the accuracy of field measurements consisted of calibration of field instruments, verification of calibrations, equipment maintenance, and collection of filter blanks. Details of how data acquired with YSI sondes were quality assured and quality controlled may be found in the process description elements in the Lineage portion of this metadata record.
Water quality laboratory analysis results were used to calibrate and cross-check sonde data for accuracy. Daily quality control checks (including the running of blanks and standards) were used to control and assure laboratory accuracy.
Accuracy of Chesapeake Biological Laboratory, Nutrient Analytical Services Laboratory (CBL NASL) laboratory results was also assessed through DNR's participation in the Chesapeake Bay Coordinated Split Sample Program (CSSP), a split sampling program in which five laboratories involved in Chesapeake Bay monitoring analyze the coordinated split samples. CSSP was established in June 1989 to establish a measure of comparability between sampling and analytical operations for water quality monitoring throughout the Chesapeake Bay and its tributaries. DNR followed the protocols in the Chesapeake Bay Coordinated Split Sample Program Implementation Guidelines (EPA 1991) and its revisions. Split samples were collected quarterly. Results were analyzed by appropriate statistical methods to determine if results differed significantly among labs. If a difference occurred, discussions began regarding techniques and potential method changes to resolve discrepancies.
Additionally, CBL NASL participated two times per year in the United States Geologic Survey (USGS) reference sample program.
Logical_Consistency_Report:
Two of the attributes in the water quality data set are PARAMETER and MEASUREVALUE. In cases where PARAMETER value is "SIGMA_T" and the MEASUREVALUE in the record is a negative number, the number should be considered unreliable. SIGMA_T values are not measured. SIGMA_T values are derived.
During 2015, at all but two stations, water quality monitoring sondes were deployed at a single depth. At two stations: Possum Point (XHH4931) and the Gooses (XEF3551) sondes were deployed concurrently at two depths: one meter from the surface and 0.3 meters from the bottom.
Values in the 'LAYER' column of sonde data files may be used to determine the depth at which a sonde was deployed. Sonde data from all 2015 sites, except XHH4931, XEF3551, and XFG4618 list a value of 'BS' ('below surface') in the LAYER column. Stations with a LAYER value of �BS� will have varying depth values depending on the method of sonde deployment at that station. For stations XHH4931 and XEF3551, a LAYER column value of 'B' indicates the sonde was deployed 0.3 meters above the bottom and a LAYER column value of 'S' indicates the sonde was deployed 1 meter below the surface. For station XFG4618, a LAYER column value of 'S' indicates the sonde was deployed 1 meter below the surface.
Beginning in 2013, data collection discontinued at station XIE4741 (Masonville Cove) and a new station, XIE4742 (Masonville Cove Pier), was deployed approximately 160 meters west of station XIE4741. Also, beginning in 2014, data collection at station XFI9597 (Williston Lake) was discontinued and a new station, MZC0016 (Williston Lake Pier), was deployed approximately 30 meters northeast of station XFI9597.
In the 2015 sonde data, there are numerous instances of turbidity measurements with negative values. The turbidity probe accuracy is plus or minus 5 NTU. In cases where turbidity probe post-deployment calibration values were within acceptable limits, negative values greater than or equal to -5.0 NTU are reported.
During 2015, it was not always possible, for logistical reasons, to replace sondes at all sites every two weeks, or every month for station XEF3551 (Gooses � Bottom) and station MZC0016 (Williston Lake Pier).
The sonde at station XHH3851 was not exchanged on 2-Sep-2015 and 20-Oct-2015.
The sonde at station XKH0375 was not exchanged on 14-April-2015, 25-Jun-2015, 17-Aug-2015, 16-Sep-2015, and 29-Oct-2015.
The sonde at station XFG2810 was not exchanged on 16-Apr-2015, 7-May-2015, 9-Jul-2015, and 22-Oct-2015.
The sonde at station XFG6431 was not exchanged on 16-April-2015, 9-Jul-2015, and 22-Oct-2015.
The sonde at station WXT0013 was not exchanged on 21-Feb-2015, 16-Apr-2015, and 24-Sep-2015.
The sonde at station PXT0455 was not exchanged on 21-Feb-2015, 16-Apr-2015, and 24-Sep-2015.
The sonde at station LMN0028 was not exchanged on 2-Sep-2015 and 20-Oct-2015.
The sonde at station XEA3687 was not exchanged on 7-Oct-2015.
The sonde at station XIE4742 was not exchanged on 11-Mar-2015.
The sonde at station MTI0015 was not exchanged on 16-Apr-2015 and 24-Sep-2015.
The sonde at station XIF3760 was not exchanged on 20-Aug-2015.
The sonde at station XBF7904 was not exchanged on 23-Apr-2015.
The sonde at station XHF0460 was not exchanged on 29-Oct-2015.
The sonde at station XKH2949 was not exchanged on 14-April-2015, 25-Jun-2015, 17-Aug-2015, 8-Sep-2015, and 29-Oct-2015.
The sondes at station XHH4931 (surface and bottom) were not exchanged on 21-Apr-2015, 1-Jun-2015, 2-Sep-2015, and 20-Oct-2015.
The sonde at station XEF3551 (surface) was not exchanged on 30-Apr-2015, 24-Jun-2015, 13-Jul-2015, 4-Aug-2015, 14-Oct-2015, and 27-Dec-2015.
The sonde at station XEF3551 (bottom) was not exchanged on 14-Jun-2015, 29-Jul-2015, 25-Sep-2015, and 3-Dec-2015.
An aerator was intermittently deployed in 2015 near station XEA3687. Records for exact dates of deployment were not kept.
Completeness_Report:
2015 Data from twenty-nine continuous monitoring stations are available on-line.
The 2015 Continuous Monitoring project dataset includes twelve months of sonde records from the continuous monitoring stations: WXT0013 (Iron Pot Landing), PXT0455 (Jug Bay), XHH3851 (Sycamore Point), and XIE4742 (Masonville Cove Pier).
Sonde data were collected for ten months at stations: XEF3551 (Gooses � Surface and Bottom) and XDM4486 (Bishopville Prong).
Nine month deployments occurred at stations: XFG6431 (Harris Creek Upstream), XFG2810 (Harris Creek Downstream), MTI0015 (Mataponi), XJG7035 (Otter Point Creek), XKH2949 (Havre de Grace), XHH4931 (Possum Point - Bottom and Surface), and XKH0375 (Susquehanna Flats).
Deployments at stations: XDN6921 (Grey's Creek), NPC0012 (Newport Creek), XBM8828 (Public Landing), XJI2396 (Budd's Landing), XEA3687 (Mattawoman), XBF7904 (St Georges Creek), XJH1222 (Camp Tockwogh), XIG2853 (Tolchester), XKI2087 (C&D Canal), and LMN0028 (Little Monie Creek) lasted eight months.
Sondes were deployed seven months at stations: XIF4935 (Lynch Point), XIF7918 (Riverside), and XIF3760 (Pleasure Island).
Sonde data were collected for six months at stations: XFG4618 (Harris Creek Profiler � Surface) and MZC0016 (Williston Lake Pier).
Sondes were deployed four months at station: XHF0460 (Sandy Point - South Beach).
A fourth continuous monitor planned for the Upper mainstem Chesapeake Bay (CB2OH) was not deployed in 2015 due to a lack of available deployment locations.
In 2015, the full suite of nutrient samples was collected at stations: XHH3851 (Sycamore Point), XHH4931 (Possum Point - Surface), XEA3687 (Mattawoman), XFG2810 (Harris Creek Downstream), and XFG6431 (Harris Creek Upstream). A sub-set of nutrients (Volatile Suspended Solids, Ammonium, Orthophosphate, Nitrite plus Nitrate, Total Dissolved Nitrogen, and Total Dissolved Phosphorus) were collected at stations: XJG7035 (Otter Point Creek), PXT0455 (Jug Bay), MTI0015 (Mataponi), WXT0013 (Iron Pot Landing), and LMN0028 (Little Monie Creek). Alkalinity was measured at stations: XFG2810 (Harris Creek Downstream), XFG6431 (Harris Creek Upstream), and XFG4618 (Harris Creek Profiler � Surface). Total Suspended Solids, chlorophyll, and pheophytin were collected at all stations.
At station MZC0016 (Williston Lake Pier), water samples were not analyzed for pigments when the data logger was exchanged on 9-Jun-2015. Also, water samples were not analyzed for pigments and suspended solids when the data logger was exchanged at station MZC0016 on 4-Aug-2015.
The user may discover a few interruptions in sonde datasets. In most cases, these interruptions were related to short-term problems with sonde operation.
Stations XFG2810 (Harris Creek Downstream) and XFG6431 (Harris Creek Upstream) were not deployed until 2-Apr-2015 due to concerns about ice and low temperatures.
Station XHH4931 (Possum Point - Bottom and Surface) was not deployed until 7-Apr-2015 due to concerns about ice and low temperatures. Station XHH4931 was also removed from service 9-Dec-2015 due to concerns about ice and low temperatures.
Station XJG7035 (Otter Point Creek) was not deployed until 2-Apr-2015 due to concerns about ice and low temperature.
Station MTI0015 (Mataponi) was not deployed until 2-Apr-2015 due to concerns about ice and low temperature.
Station XEF3551 (Gooses - Bottom) was not deployed until 16-Apr-2015 due to repair of equipment.
Station MZC0016 (Williston Lake Pier) was not deployed until 12-May-2015 and was removed from service on 27-Oct-2015.
Station XHF0460 (Sandy Point - South Beach) was not deployed until 18-Aug-2015 due to a damaged piling.
Station XFG4618 (Harris Creek Profiler � Surface) was removed from service for the year on 9-Sep-2015 due to major equipment malfunction, which necessitated repairs.
There were gaps in the sonde data for a few stations for the following reasons.
Station XEF3551 (Gooses � Surface) was not deployed between 15-Jan-2015 and 16-Apr-2015 due to concerns about ice and low temperature.
Station XDM4486 (Bishopville Prong) was not deployed between 23-Feb-2015 and 8-Apr-2015 due to concerns about ice and low temperature. Station XDM4486 is also missing data from 21-May-2015 to 4-Jun-2015 due to a sonde power failure.
Station PXT0455 (Jug Bay) is missing data from 13-Jan-2015 to 21-Jan-2015 due to a sonde power failure. Station PXT0455 is also missing data from 4-Dec-2015 to 15-Dec-2015 due to equipment malfunction.
Station WXT0013 (Iron Pot Landing) is missing data from 9-Mar-2015 to 19-Mar-2015, 23-Mar-2015 to 2-Apr-2015, and 8-Apr-2015 to 21-Apr-2015 due to equipment malfunctions.
Station XFG2810 (Harris Creek Downstream) is missing data from 7-Apr-2015 to 23-Apr-2015, 29-Apr-2015 to 14-May-2015, 11-Aug-2015 to 24-Aug-2015, 9-Sep-2015 to 22-Sep-2015, and 5-Dec-2015 to 31-Dec-2015 due to equipment malfunctions.
Station XEA3687 (Mattawoman) is missing data from 13-Apr-2015 to 23-Apr-2015 and from 6-Aug-2015 to 13-Aug-2015 due to equipment malfunctions.
Station XJH1222 (Camp Tockwogh) is missing data from 14-Apr-2015 to 23-Apr-2015 due to equipment malfunction.
Station XFG6431 (Harris Creek Upstream) is missing data from 29-Apr-2015 to 5-May-2015 due to equipment removed from service for repair. Station XFG6431 is also missing data from 27-Nov-2015 to 1-Dec-2015 due to equipment malfunction.
Station XKH0375 (Susquehanna Flats) is missing data from 10-May-2015 to 26-May-2015 due to a sonde power failure. Station XKH0375 is also missing data from 9-Sep-2015 to 1-Oct-2015 due to a sonde setup error.
Station XBM8828 (Public Landing) is missing data from 12-May-2015 to 20-May-2015 due to a sonde power failure.
Station LMN0028 (Little Monie Creek) is missing data from 13-May-2015 to 28-May-2015 due to equipment malfunction.
Station XIG2853 (Tolchester) is missing data from 3-Jun-2015 to 4-Jun-2015 due to a sonde power failure.
Station XIE4742 (Masonville Cove Pier) is missing data from 14-Jun-2015 to 25-Jun-2015 due to equipment malfunction.
Station XDN6921 (Grey's Creek) is missing data from 29-Jun-2015 to 16-Jul-2015 and from 6-Aug-2015 to 11-Aug-2015 due to equipment malfunctions.
Station XHH4931 (Possum Point � Surface) is missing data from 1-Aug-2015 to 4-Aug-2015 due to a sonde power failure.
Station MZC0016 (Williston Lake Pier) is missing data from 22-Aug-2015 to 1-Sep-2015 due to a sonde power failure.
On a few occasions, due to extreme low tide conditions, sondes were not submerged. These data are not included in the published dataset.
All other missing sonde attribute values were removed because the data were determined to be unreliable during the quality control process.
Lineage:
Process_Step:
Process_Description:
SONDE CALIBRATION and POST-CALIBRATION
The Yellow Springs Instrument (YSI) 6600 V2 and EXO2 data sondes were maintained and calibrated before and after each deployment in accordance with YSI recommendations. <http://www.ysi.com/support.php>
FIELD MEASUREMENTS AND SAMPLING
SONDES:
The continuous monitoring sensors at the sites recorded seven water quality parameters every 15 minutes, except at stations XEF3551 and XFG4618. The surface and bottom monitors at station XEF3551 and the surface monitor at station XFG4618 sampled parameters at 60-minute intervals for the entire deployments. Data were uploaded to DNR's web site <http://www.eyesonthebay.net> shortly after retrieval.
At all sites the seven water quality parameters measured continuously were: water temperature, specific conductance (used to derive salinity values), dissolved oxygen, oxygen percent saturation, turbidity (NTU), fluorescence (used to estimate chlorophyll a) and pH. Sondes deployed at fixed depths also measured water depth.
Most monitoring stations were equipped with a YSI 6600 V2 sonde. One station (LMN0028) was equipped with a YSI EXO2 sonde for the entire season. Two other stations were equipped with YSI 6600V2 sondes for part of the season, before being switched to YSI EXO2 sondes for the remainder of the season. Station XIF4935 was equipped with a YSI 6600 V2 sonde between 2-April-2015 and 23-July-2015, and with a YSI EXO2 sonde between 23-July-2015 and 29-October-2015. Station XIF3760 was equipped with a YSI 6600 V2 sonde between 15-April-2015 and 15-September-2015, and with a YSI EXO2 sonde between 15-September-2015 and 29-October-2015. Both types of sonde logged data onto an internal memory, where it was stored until retrieval. Thirteen stations were equipped with cellular telemetry units, which allowed data to be transmitted hourly to a server computer at DNR. Sondes were deployed inside vertically-oriented four-inch diameter PVC pipes with several two-inch holes drilled along their length to allow for water exchange. Depending on location, sondes were either suspended from a float 1.0-meters below surface or fixed 0.3-meters or 0.5-meters above bottom resting on a stop bolt.
Sondes at the following stations were deployed at a fixed depth of 0.3 meters above the bottom: XIF4935 (Lynch Point), LMN0028 (Little Monie Creek), MTI0015 (Mataponi), NPC0012 (Newport Creek), PXT0455 (Jug Bay), WXT0013 (Iron Pot Landing), XBM8828 (Public Landing), XDM4486 (Bishopville Prong), XDN6921 (Grey's Creek), XEA3687 (Mattawoman), XEF3551 (Gooses - Bottom), XHH4931 (Possum Point - Bottom), XJG7035 (Otter Point Creek), XKH0375 (Susquehanna Flats), XKH2949 (Havre de Grace), XFG2810 (Harris Creek Downstream), XFG6431 (Harris Creek Upstream), XIF3760 (Pleasure Island), and XKI2087 (C&D Canal).
Sondes at station XBF7904 (St Georges Creek) were deployed at a fixed depth of 0.5 meters above the bottom.
All other sondes were deployed suspended from buoys at a depth of 1.0 meters below the surface.
Note that between 28-Apr-2015 and 1-May-2015, the sonde at station XFG4618 (Harris Creek Profiler � Surface) collected readings while resting on the bottom, rather than 1.0 meters below the surface, due to equipment malfunction.
Note that sondes were deployed concurrently at two depths at stations: XEF3551, and XHH4931.
WATER QUALITY CALIBRATION SAMPLES:
Each time sondes were exchanged at each Continuous Monitoring station, "grab" water quality samples were collected at 1.0 meter depth, or at deployment depth for stations deployed at a fixed depth above the bottom, using a horizontal "Alpha" water sampler. At Station XFG4618, a second (bottom) grab sample was collected at 2.0m depth. Also, at station XEF3551, a second (bottom) grab sample was collected at 11.0m depth. At the time the water was collected, a Hydrolab sonde measurement was taken at 1.0 meter depth.
Numbered two-quart bottles were triple-rinsed and filled with water for "whole" and "filtered" nutrient and chlorophyll samples. (As noted previously, full suites of nutrient samples were not collected at all stations).
Nutrient, pigment and suspended-solid water samples were filtered on station or shortly thereafter. Sample waters and filters were placed on ice immediately after filtration.
Particulate samples included: Chlorophyll, Particulate Carbon, Particulate Nitrogen, Particulate Phosphorus (PP), Particulate Inorganic Phosphorous (PIP), Total Suspended Solids (TSS) and Volatile Suspended Solids (VSS).
Filtrate collected from TSS/VSS or PP/PIP filtrations was used for dissolved nutrient samples. Total Dissolved Nitrogen and Total Dissolved Phosphorus, Nitrate, Nitrite, Ammonium, Orthophosphate, and Dissolved Organic Carbon samples were collected.
HYDROLAB PROFILE:
The first reading of the Hydrolab water column profile at each station was recorded at the same time the water quality "grab" sample was collected. After the 1.0-meter depth record was logged, the sonde was lowered to the bottom. A reading was taken at 0.3-meters above the bottom. The sonde was raised and measurements were recorded at 0.5-meter or 1.0-meter increments until it reached the surface. (In cases where station depth was greater than 3-meters, the sonde was raised in 1-meter increments).
SECCHI DEPTH:
Secchi disk depth was measured each time sondes were exchanged. Readings with the Secchi disk were made in-situ without the aid of sunglasses. The Secchi disk was lowered into the water, on the shady side of the boat or pier. The depth at which the disk was no longer visible was recorded. The time at which the reading was taken was noted. This facilitated later matching of Secchi depth readings with transmissometer and turbidity data.
PAR MEASUREMENT:
Underwater Photosynthetically Active Radiation (PAR, 400-700nm)
When meters were exchanged at a site, down-welling light penetrating the water column (PAR) was measured underwater at several depths to calculate the light attenuation coefficient, Kd. Simultaneous surface and submersed PAR intensity measurements were taken to account for variability in incident surface irradiance due to changes in cloud cover. Data collected from this procedure were used to estimate the depth of the photic zone.
The equipment used was manufactured by LI-COR, Inc. and consisted of a LI-192SA, flat cosine Underwater Quantum Sensor, a LI-190SA air (deck) reference sensor and a Data Logger (LI-1000 or LI-1400).
Surface and underwater readings were recorded simultaneously. Readings were allowed to stabilize before being recorded. If the station depth was less than 3 meters, readings were taken at 0.1 meter and at 0.25-meter intervals until 10% for the 0.1-meter reading was reached. If the station depth was greater than 3 meters, a reading was taken at 0.1-meter and at 0.5-meter intervals until 10% of the 0.1-meter reading was reached.
PAR readings had also been collected at 15-minute intervals during deployment dates at station XBM8828 (Public Landing) between 2005 and 2012. All 2013 readings were considered invalid, however, due to equipment failure and the PAR sensor has not been deployed since 2013.
SONDE DATA CHECKS
At most stations, the continuous monitoring sondes were retrieved, calibrated and replaced bi-weekly during deployment. Data Loggers deployed from November to March were exchanged monthly because less biofouling, which may compromise data integrity, occurs during cold weather months. Data loggers deployed greater than 10m below surface at station XEF3551 were exchanged monthly. Data loggers deployed in a contained lake at station MZC0016 were exchanged monthly. At each deployment, sondes were replaced with clean, recalibrated units and data from the data loggers were downloaded to a computer.
In the field, before an instrument was replaced, field staff allowed both the new (freshly calibrated) sonde and the old (deployed) sonde to log two readings (fifteen minutes apart at most stations) side by side at the same depth. For the surface and bottom sondes at station XEF3551 and the surface monitor at station XFG4618, only one simultaneous reading was taken using the new and old sondes. At all of the stations, for one of the simultaneous readings, data were recorded from a discrete instrument (usually a Hydrolab sonde). This three-way comparison assured that the "new" and "old" sondes were both reading each parameter within a certain tolerance. The Hydrolab reading was used as a "double-check," and since it was a discrete reading, it allowed staff to watch the display and note whether the parameters were fluctuating or stable.
EcoWatch(tm) software (a YSI product) was used to calibrate the YSI 6600 V2 instruments, as well as to upload and view data collected. KOR(tm) software (a YSI product) was used to calibrate the EXO2 instruments, as well as to upload and view data collected. Data downloaded from the sonde were subjected to quality assurance/quality control checks to ensure that values outside the range of possibility were not displayed on the DNR web site.
Data were evaluated using both three-way in-situ comparison results and data from sonde calibrations. The comparison tolerances were as follows - for both pre- and post-calibration and in-situ comparisons: Temperature (deg C) +- 0.2; Specific Conductance (uM/cm) +- 5%; Dissolved Oxygen (mg/l) +- 0.5 mg/l; pH +- 0.2; Turbidity (NTU) +- 5% or 5.0 NTU (whichever is greater); Chlorophyll (ug/l) +- 5% or 5.0 ug/l (whichever is greater).
Excessive drift between pre- and post- calibration values of sonde probes, variance from in-situ measurements or probe failures caused data to be flagged. When post-calibration drift exceeded the limits stated above in both the post-calibration and the in-situ comparables, the "bad data" were masked within the data set with an error code (see QAPP for list of error codes).
SONDE FILE POST-PROCESSING:
Each "raw" .csv file of sonde data was post-processed using an Excel(tm) Macro. The file was opened and renamed. Rows of data acquired before and after deployment were deleted. Records (if any) were also deleted if instrument error codes indicated erroneous data. The macro rearranged columns and inserted error-tracking columns and headings. Macro statements flagged negative values, missing values and highlighted values outside each parameter's normal range. The macro also returned a report summarizing range exceedances. Event and instrument information was appended to each record.
Flagged values were evaluated. Common anomalies included spikes in fluorescence and turbidity, dips in specific conductance, and extremely high dissolved oxygen readings. Instrument post-calibration results, in-situ comparisons with Hydrolab, LI-COR readings, historical data from nearby locations, and survey crew remarks were used to determine whether sensor values were acceptable.
In cases where data were determined to be unreliable, the reason(s) were documented with error codes and comments. Unreliable data were masked. No data were discarded. Only data considered reliable were published in reports.
Field biologists and data analysts reviewed continuous monitoring data weekly. If a problem was identified, a field team member was dispatched to replace the instrument as soon as possible.
VERIFICATION AND DATA MANAGEMENT
At the end of the monitoring season, DNR data analysts and field bilogists personnel conducted additional data QA/QC procedures. All of the data were plotted and outliers and anomalous values were thoroughly researched. Staff compared unusual values to historic values from the site and values from nearby sites in the Bay. Weather events were considered, event logs were reviewed, and field staff members were consulted regarding possible legitimate causes for the values. In cases where values were not considered legitimate, error codes were assigned. All data were retained in the archive data set. After field staff and the Quality Assurance Officer reviewed error flags, the values were masked within the published dataset.
Process_Date: Unknown
Process_Contact:
Contact_Information:
Contact_Person_Primary:
Contact_Person: Kristen Heyer
Contact_Position: Project Chief (Acting), Monitoring Field Office, DNR
Contact_Address:
Address_Type: mailing and physical
Address: 1919 Lincoln Drive
City: Annapolis
State_or_Province: Maryland
Postal_Code: 21401
Country: USA
Contact_Voice_Telephone: 410 263-3369
Contact_Electronic_Mail_Address:
Kristen.Heyer_nospam_@maryland.gov[Remove _nospam_ for valid email address]
Process_Step:
Process_Description:
LABORATORY ANALYSIS - CBL University of Maryland's Chesapeake Biological Laboratory (CBL), Nutrient Analytical Services Laboratory analyzed total dissolved nitrogen, particulate nitrogen, nitrite, nitrite + nitrate, ammonium, total dissolved phosphorus, particulate phosphorus, particulate inorganic phosphorus, orthophosphate, dissolved organic carbon, particulate carbon, total suspended solids, volatile suspended solids, and alkalinity.
Note that in 2015, the full suite of nutrients was only collected at stations: XHH3851 (Sycamore Point), XHH4931 (Possum Point - Surface), XFG2810 (Harris Creek Downstream), XFG6431 (Harris Creek Upstream), and XEA3687 (Mattawoman). A sub-set of nutrients (Volatile Suspended Solids, Ammonium, Orthophosphate, Nitrite plus Nitrate, Total Dissolved Nitrogen, and Total Dissolved Phosphorus) were collected at stations XJG7035 (Otter Point Creek), PXT0455 (Jug Bay), MTI0015 (Mataponi), WXT0013 (Iron Pot Landing), and LMN0028 (Little Monie Creek). Alkalinity was collected at stations: XFG2810 (Harris Creek Downstream), XFG6431 (Harris Creek Upstream), and XFG4618 (Harris Creek Profiler � Surface). Total Suspended Solids, chlorophyll, and pheophytin were collected at all stations.
During the years 2008-2011, Shallow Water Monitoring silicate samples were collected and analyzed at four Maryland Coastal Bays stations: XDM4486 (Bishopville Prong), XDN6921 (Grey's Creek), NPC0012 (Newport Creek) and XBM8828 (Public Landing). Beginning in 2012, silicate samples were no longer collected at these four Coastal Bays stations.
Further information about laboratory analytical procedures may be obtained from the "Process_Contact".
Process_Date: Unknown
Process_Contact:
Contact_Information:
Contact_Person_Primary:
Contact_Person: Jerry Frank
Contact_Position: Director of Analytical Services/Quality Assurance Officer
Contact_Address:
Address_Type: mailing and physical
Address: Chesapeake Biological Laboratory, 146 Williams St; P.O. Box 38
City: Solomons
State_or_Province: Maryland
Postal_Code: 20688
Country: USA
Contact_Voice_Telephone: 410 326-7252
Contact_Electronic_Mail_Address:
frank_nospam_@cbl.umces.edu[Remove _nospam_ for valid email address]
Spatial_Data_Organization_Information:
Indirect_Spatial_Reference:
Assawoman Bay, Back River, Bush River, C&D Canal, Chesapeake Bay, Chincoteague Bay, Maryland Coastal Bays, Choptank River, Corsica River, Harris Creek, Mattawoman Creek, Patapsco River, Patuxent River, Potomac River, Sassafras River, Susquehanna River, Susquehanna Flats, Wicomico River, Williston Lake, Maryland, USA
Direct_Spatial_Reference_Method: Point
Spatial_Reference_Information:
Horizontal_Coordinate_System_Definition:
Geographic:
Latitude_Resolution: 0.0001
Longitude_Resolution: 0.0001
Geographic_Coordinate_Units: Decimal degrees
Geodetic_Model:
Horizontal_Datum_Name: North American Datum of 1983
Ellipsoid_Name: Geodetic Reference System 80
Semi-major_Axis: 6378137
Denominator_of_Flattening_Ratio: 298.257
Entity_and_Attribute_Information:
Overview_Description:
Entity_and_Attribute_Overview:
This metadata record is a description of a continuous monitoring project. Project data are an aggregation of data collected at twenty-nine Maryland stations during 2015.
The data are contained in six related entities (tables): Station_Information, Monitoring_Event_Data, Water_Quality_Data, Light_Attenuation_Data, Optical_Density_Data, and CMON_DATA. Each table contains attributes (fields).
The entity Station_Information is comprised of the attributes: Station, StationDescription, CBSeg2003, CBSeg2003Description, CBSegmentShed2009, CBSegmentShed2009Description, HUC12, FIPS, State, CountyCity, USGSGage, FallLine, Latitude, Longitude, UTMX, UTMY and LLDatum.
The entity Monitoring_Event_Data is comprised of the attributes: Details, GaugeHeight, EventId, Source, Program, Project, Station, Latitude, Longitude, EventStartDate, EventStartTime, Cruise, TotalDepth, UpperPycnocline, LowerPycnocline, WindSpeed, WindDirection, PrecipType, TideStage, CloudCover, Pressure and FlowStage.
The entity Water_Quality_Data is comprised of the attributes: MeasureValue, EventId, Station, Source, Project, SampleDate, SampleTime, Depth, TotalDepth, Layer, SampleType, SampleReplicateType, Parameter, Qualifier, MeasureValue, Unit, Method, Lab, Problem, Details, Latitude, Longitude, UpperPycnocline and LowerPycnocline.
The entity Light_Attenuation_Data is comprised of the attributes: EventId, Source, Station, Program, Project, SampleDate, SampleTime, HUC8, CatalogingUnitDescription, SampleReplicateType, Parameter, Depth, Unit, Method, Details, UpperPycnocline, LowerPycnocline, and TotalDepth.
The entity Optical_Density_Data is comprised of the attributes: StationDescription, EventId, Source, Station, Program, Project, SampleDate, SampleTime, SampleReplicateType, Parameter, Depth, Unit, Method, Details, UpperPycnocline, and LowerPycnocline.
The entity CMON_DATA is comprised of the attributes: Station, Date, Time (EST), Date+Time, DO (conc), DO (percent), Salinity (ppt), Temp (deg C), Temp (deg F), pH, Turbidity (NTU), and Chlorophyll a (ug/l).
Entity_and_Attribute_Detail_Citation:
Water Quality Database - Database Design and Data Dictionary Prepared For: U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, Region III, Chesapeake Bay Program Office, January 2004. <http://www.chesapeakebay.net/documents/3676/cbwqdb2004_rb.pdf>
Guide to Using Chesapeake Bay Program Water Quality Monitoring Data, EPA 903-R-12-001, February 2012, CBP/TRS 304-12 <http://www.chesapeakebay.net/documents/3676/wq_data_userguide_10feb12_mod.pdf>
Quality Assurance Project Plan for the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, Chesapeake Bay Shallow Water Quality Monitoring Program, for the period July 1, 2015 - June 30, 2016, can be found using publication type 'Quality Assurance Project Plan' to search the monitoring stories and publications page of <http://www.eyesonthebay.net>
Distribution_Information:
Distributor:
Contact_Information:
Contact_Person_Primary:
Contact_Person: Michael Mallonee
Contact_Position: Water Quality Database Manager
Contact_Address:
Address_Type: mailing
Address: 410 Severn Avenue, Suite 109
City: Annapolis
State_or_Province: Maryland
Postal_Code: 21403
Contact_Voice_Telephone: 410-267-5785
Contact_Electronic_Mail_Address:
mmallone@_no_spam_chesapeakebay.net[Remove _nospam_ for valid email address]
Resource_Description: Downloadable data
Distribution_Liability:
None of the Chesapeake Bay Program partners or any of their employees, contractors, or subcontractors makes any warranty, expressed or implied, nor assumes any legal liability or responsibility for the accuracy, completeness, or usefulness of any information or data contained within the web site. Reference to any specific commercial products, processes, or services or the use of any trade, firm, or corporation name is for the information and convenience of the public and does not constitute endorsement, recommendation or favoring by the Chesapeake Bay Program partners.
Standard_Order_Process:
Digital_Form:
Digital_Transfer_Information:
Format_Name: ASCII file, formatted for text attributes, declared format
Format_Information_Content:
Station Information data, Monitoring Event data, Light Attenuation data and Water Quality data
File_Decompression_Technique: No compression applied
Transfer_Size: 2.2
Digital_Transfer_Option:
Online_Option:
Computer_Contact_Information:
Network_Address:
Network_Resource_Name:
<http://www.chesapeakebay.net/data/index.cfm?subjectarea=WATER_QUALITY>
Access_Instructions:
Station Information, Monitoring Event, Light Attenuation and Water Quality data are available through the Chesapeake Bay Programs CIMS data hub. Select Water Quality Database (1984-Present). Access the data by following web site (see network resource name) instructions.
Digital_Form:
Digital_Transfer_Information:
Format_Name: ASCII file, formatted for text attributes, declared format
Format_Information_Content: Continuous monitoring sonde data
File_Decompression_Technique: No compression applied
Transfer_Size: 100

Digital_Transfer_Option:
Online_Option:
Computer_Contact_Information:
Network_Address:
Network_Resource_Name: <http://www.eyesonthebay.net>
Access_Instructions:
CMON data (sonde data) for 2015 are available through the Continuous Monitoring - Archived Results page of the Eyes on the Bay website. Access sonde data by following web site (see network resource name) instructions. Select station and specify dates. Station record set counts range from 3,651 to 35,040. Depending on connection speed, downloads may take a considerable amount of time. Downloading partial record sets will proceed more quickly.
Fees: None
Metadata_Reference_Information:
Metadata_Date: 20150511
Metadata_Contact:
Contact_Information:
Contact_Person_Primary:
Contact_Person: Brian Smith
Contact_Address:
Address_Type: Mailing and physical address
Address: MDDNR, 580 Taylor Ave, D-2
City: Annapolis
State_or_Province: MD
Postal_Code: 21401
Contact_Voice_Telephone: (410) 260-8630
Contact_Electronic_Mail_Address:
brianr.smith_nospam_@maryland.gov[Remove _nospam_ for valid email address]
Metadata_Standard_Name: Content Standards for Digital Geospatial Metadata
Metadata_Standard_Version: FGDC-STD-001-1998
Generated by mp version 2.9.33 on Wed May 11 12:48:56 2016