Pierce County Stream Team Program

Transcription

1 Pierce County Stream Team Program Stream Monitor Program Goals Educate citizens about stream ecology, stream health, and nonpoint source pollution Involve citizens in observing, monitoring, reporting stream conditions Provide useful data/information to local jurisdictions What do our stream monitors do? Measure dissolved oxygen, water temperature, ph, nitrate-nitrogen, and turbidity Measure stream flow Conduct an annual habitat assessment Program Background Pierce Conservation District has coordinated a volunteer stream monitoring program in all four watersheds in Pierce County since Since that time PCD has engaged over 1,000 citizens in this program and currently more than 70 volunteers are involved with this effort. The goals of this program are to provide education to Pierce County residents about local streams, and the impact of our daily lives on stream water quality and habitat; as well as provide information on current stream conditions. Why is monitoring important to your jurisdiction? Volunteer monitors build awareness of pollution problems, learn about pollution prevention, raise awareness of problem sites, provide data for waters that may be unassessed, and increase the amount of water quality information available to local communities and decision makers.

2 How does this program work? Local citizens are recruited from the local community through the PCD newsletter, Facebook page, and other media. Interested citizens attend a training focused on the basics of stream ecology; why we monitor; water quality testing for dissolved oxygen, nitrates, ph, and turbidity; flow measurement; and a habitat assessment with time for participants to practice sampling techniques. Staff also conducts a follow up field quality control session with each new monitor once they have established their monitoring routine. Monitoring site selection is typically from a list of open monitoring sites or can be based on jurisdictional preference for a particular stream(s). Stream monitors can choose from three different monitoring schedules (monthly, bimonthly, quarterly) based on best fit with their personal schedule. PCD provides the water quality kits to the volunteers. PCD staff provides ongoing maintenance of the kits including annual calibration of thermometers, checking and replacing reagents on a regular basis, and updating equipment as needed. The data collected using these kits is considered to be red-flag data, highlighting areas of concern where a more focused effort may be needed. Volunteers In 2017, fifty-five volunteers participated in monitoring 33 sites on 22 streams contributing a total of 513 hours. What happens with the data after it is collected? The data is reviewed as it comes in to check for any missing, or unusual results or to clarify comments about conditions seen at the site. The results and additional comments are entered into an Access database. An annual snapshot of the data is prepared and sent to the volunteers and to our jurisdictional partners.

3 State Standards The Washington State Department of Ecology sets standards for each stream based on beneficial uses for water temperature, dissolved oxygen, ph, and turbidity. While there are no nitrate standards issued by the department, nitrate concentrations in our surface waters can have significant impacts on the other metrics we do have standards for, and can cause significant alterations in biotic potential as well as overall habitat. The water quality data collected by volunteer stream monitors is presented in graphs along with the Washington State Department of Ecology standards. Red bars or red circles indicates those data points not meeting state standards. Temperature and Dissolved Oxygen Temperature and dissolved oxygen are two very important water quality features, and their levels determine what can live in our streams. High water temperatures reduce the ability of water to hold oxygen and also stresses the plants and animals that live in the stream. Warm water temperatures can be caused by lack of shading, erosion, stormwater runoff, and flow. Dissolved oxygen levels are affected by temperature, turbulence, photosynthesis, respiration, salinity, elevation, and amount of decaying matter. ph ph is a measure of the hydrogen ion concentration of water, which determines whether the water is acidic or basic. Aquatic plants and animals are sensitive to high or low ph. Factors that affect ph levels include photosynthesis, respiration, decomposition, stormwater runoff, and chemical spills. ph is measured on a scale ranging from 0 to 14 of ph units. A ph reading below 7 is considered acidic; above 7 is considered basic. It is important to know that the ph scale is logarithmic, meaning that for each one whole unit of change in ph, there is a ten-fold change in its acid or base level.

4 Nitrogen Nitrogen is an essential plant nutrient required by all plants and animals for building protein. Nitrogen is present in several different forms in aquatic ecosystems. Nitrate is one form of nitrogen that can be easily used by plants and animals. The concentration and supply of nitrates in a stream depends on the surrounding land use. Sources of nitrates include human and animal waste, fertilizers, and stormwater run-off. Excessive amounts of nitrates stimulate increased plant and algae growth (eutrophication) which leads to lower oxygen levels as they begin to die off. During spring, nitrate levels may increase due to fertilization of lawns and fields. During winter, high rainfall can cause increased run-off of organic matter such as leaves, twigs, grass, and other debris. Decomposition of this organic material releases nitrates. Turbidity Turbidity is a measure of a stream s overall clarity. This generally varies throughout the year within any stream system, but large variations throughout a given period can be an indicator of problems with runoff, erosion, deforestation, or human activity. Clear water is important for many types of aquatic animal and plants species throughout their lifespan, and the hallmark of clear, cool water is especially important to anadromous salmonid species in the area.

5 Clover-Chambers Watershed Streams and Sites Clover Creek Monitoring Sites Clover #12 Spanaway #1 Clover #2 Clover #11 Clover Creek is located in the Chambers-Clover watershed; originating from springs and groundwater drainage six miles east of Spanaway it flows nearly 14 miles through residential and commercial areas in a northwesterly direction into Lake Steilacoom located in Lakewood. In the past Clover Creek supported several salmon runs, but more recently salmon have not been able to access the creek due to low or intermittent stream flow, and other barriers. Clover Creek is designated as a spawning, rearing, migration stream and according to state water quality standards, water temperature should be 17.5 C, dissolved oxygen should be 8 mg/l, ph should fall between 6.5 and 8.5. Volunteer stream monitors sample Clover Site 2 located at 4th Ave East and 143rd, on the back side of Forterra property, Clover Site 11, located at the downstream side of the 152nd St crossing, and Clover Site 12 located at the far end of the entrance to the Parkland Prairie Preserve.

6 This graph shows ph levels during ph levels did meet state standards at all of the sampling dates. This graph shows dissolved oxygen levels and water temperatures during Dissolved Oxygen met state standards only on one sampling date; while water temperatures met the state standard on all but one sampling date.

7 There are no state standards for nitrates at this time. This graph displays the turbidity levels for the 2017 water year. There was no measurable turbidity on all the sampling days. Summary Water levels at this site tend to be low with slow stream velocities which may explain the low dissolved oxygen, and the high temperature reading.

8 ph measurements at Clover Site 11 met state standards on all sampling dates. This graph shows dissolved oxygen levels and water temperatures during Water temperatures met state standards on all sampling dates. Dissolved oxygen did not meet standards on several of the sampling dates.

9 There are no state standards for nitrates at this time. This graph shows the turbidity levels for the 2017 water year. Summary The dissolved oxygen reading in June 2017 could be low due to high water temperatures during the summer. In the summer flows are generally lower and the water is warmer, holding less oxygen. There were no observations from the volunteers to explain the low dissolved oxygen readings in February, March, and April Typically, we would see higher dissolved oxygen readings in the winter months when the water is cooler and can hold more oxygen, and when flows are greater. Litter has been noted at this site, along with construction of a guard rail.

10 This graph shows ph levels during ph did meet the state standards on all but one sampling dates. This graph shows dissolved oxygen levels and water temperatures during Dissolved oxygen and temperature standards were met on sampling dates.

11 There are no state standards for nitrates at this time. This graph shows turbidity results for The higher turbidity on 2/9/17 was due to flooding in the creek. Summary This site is on an active restoration area, the Parkland Prairie. Habitat improvement activities are expected to improve water quality data. Trash has been noted at this site previously. This site also typically runs dry during the summer months due to low groundwater levels.

12 Clover-Chambers Watershed Streams and Sites Spanaway Creek Monitoring Site Clover #12 Spanaway #1 Clover #2 Clover #11 Spanaway Creek, located in the Chambers-Clover watershed, is a tributary of Clover Creek. It originates from springs and wetlands located on JBLM upstream of Spanaway Lake, it continues flowing out of Spanaway Lake and through Tule Lake approximately 5.8 miles to its confluence with Clover Creek. Coho salmon presence has been documented in Spanaway Creek. Spanaway Creek is designated as a spawning, rearing, migration stream and according to state water quality standards, water temperature should be 17.5 C, dissolved oxygen should be 8 mg/l, ph should fall between 6.5 and 8.5. Spanaway Site 1 is located downstream of the Military Road crossing in Bresemann Forest.

13 This graph shows ph levels during ph did meet the state standards on all sampling dates. This graph shows dissolved oxygen levels and water temperatures during Dissolved oxygen standards were met on all sampling dates. Water temperatures did not meet state standards on several of the sampling dates.

14 There are no state standards for nitrates at this time. This graph shows turbidity results for the 2017 water year. Summary Water temperatures did not meet state standards on several of the sampling dates. These dates were during the summer months when water levels and stream velocities are low. Toxic algae from Spanaway Lake is sometimes present at this site.

15 Key Peninsula-Gig Harbor-Islands Watershed Streams and Sites Huge Purdy #4 Crescent Creek Monitoring Site Rocky #6 Vaughn #1 Minter #1 Ray Nash Mark Dickson #2 Mark Dickson Crescent #4 Sullivan Crescent Crescent Creek, located in the Key Peninsula-Gig Harbor-Islands (KGI) watershed, flows from its headwaters at Crescent Lake approximately three miles to Gig Harbor Bay. Crescent Creek supports coho, chum, and steelhead. Crescent Creek is designated as core summer habitat and according to state water quality standards, water temperature should be 16 C, dissolved oxygen should be 9.5 mg/l, ph should fall between 6.5 and 8.5. Crescent Site 1.5 is located at Crescent Valley Dr NW, just north of Gig Harbor. Crescent Site 4 is located approximately one mile upstream from its mouth at Crescent Valley Dr NW.

16 This graph shows ph levels during ph did meet the state standards on all sampling dates. This graph shows dissolved oxygen levels and water temperatures during Water temperatures and dissolved oxygen levels met state standards on all sampling dates.

17 There are no state standards for nitrates at this time. The higher turbidity noted on 11/5/16 was due to rain at the time of sampling. Summary Crescent Site 1.5 met state standards for all parameters, despite the possible influences of private properties that border the creek. The property owner has noticed salmon runs during the fall time period.

18 This graph shows ph levels during ph did meet the state standards on all sampling dates. This graph shows dissolved oxygen levels and water temperatures during Water temperatures and dissolved oxygen levels met state standards on all sampling dates.

19 There are no state standards for nitrates at this time. The higher levels of nitrates was likely do a rain event in the previous 24 hours. Turbidity levels at Crescent Site 4 are negligible through most of the sampling dates, but the single spike on 2/27/17 is probably due to the rain. Summary Crescent Site 4 met state standards for all parameters, despite the possible influences of private properties that border the creek. The property owner has noticed tall and thick vegetation along the streambanks.

20 Huge Purdy #4 Huge Creek Monitoring Site Rocky #6 Vaughn #1 Minter #1 Ray Nash Mark Dickson #2 Mark Dickson Crescent #4 Crescent Huge Creek, located in the KGI watershed, flows 4.7 miles from its headwaters in Kitsap County to its confluence with Minter Creek. Huge Creek supports coho, cutthroat, and steelhead. Huge Creek is designated as core summer habitat and according to state water quality standards, water temperature should be 16 C, dissolved oxygen should be 9.5 mg/l, and ph should fall between 6.5 and 8.5. Site 3 is located just upstream of the 144 th St. KPN crossing. Sullivan

21 This graph shows ph levels during ph did meet the state standards on all sampling dates. This graph shows dissolved oxygen levels and water temperatures during Water temperatures and dissolved oxygen levels met state standards on all sampling dates.

22 There are no state standards for nitrates at this time. This graph displays turbidity values for There was no measurable turbidity on all the sampling days. Summary Huge Site 3 met state standards for all parameters. Foam has been noted at this site, but most likely it has natural sources (organic decomposition). Aquatic invertebrates and fish have also been noted at this site.

23 Huge Purdy #4 Mark Dickson Creek Monitoring Site Rocky #6 Vaughn #1 Minter #1 Crescent #4 Crescent Mark Dickson Creek, located in the KGI watershed, flows from its headwaters in Sylvia Lake approximately 0.5 miles to the confluence with Ray Nash Creek. The lower reaches support coho and chum salmon. Mark Dickson Creek is designated as core summer habitat and according to state water quality standards, water temperature should be 16 C, dissolved oxygen should be 9.5 mg/l, and ph should fall between 6.5 and 8.5. Ray Nash Mark Dickson #2 Mark Dickson Sullivan There are two monitoring sites on Mark Dickson, Site 2 is located midway between Sylvia Lake and Ray Nash Creek and Site 3 is located just upstream of the confluence with Ray Nash Creek.

24 This graph shows ph levels during ph did meet the state standards on all sampling dates. This graph shows dissolved oxygen levels and water temperatures during Water temperatures and dissolved oxygen levels did not met state standards on several sampling dates.

25 There are no state standards for nitrates at this time. This graph shows the measured turbidity for water year Summary The dissolved oxygen readings on June 6th and August 2017 could be low due to high water temperatures during the summer. In the summer flows are generally lower and the water is warmer, holding less oxygen. There were no observations from the volunteers to explain the low dissolved oxygen readings in October and November Typically, we would see higher dissolved oxygen readings in the winter months when the water is cooler and can hold more oxygen, and when flows are greater. Foam has been noted at this site, but most likely it has natural sources (organic decomposition).

26 This graph shows ph levels during ph did meet the state standards on all sampling dates. This graph shows dissolved oxygen levels and water temperatures during Water temperatures state standards were met on all but 3 sampling dates and dissolved oxygen state standards were met on all but two sampling dates.

27 There are no state standards for nitrates at this time. This graph displays turbidity for water year Summary The dissolved oxygen reading on June could be low due to high water temperatures during the summer as seen in the following months. In the summer flows are generally lower and the water is warmer, holding less oxygen. There were no observations from the volunteers to explain the low dissolved oxygen reading on November Typically, we would see higher dissolved oxygen readings in the winter months when the water is cooler and can hold more oxygen, and when flows are greater. Foam has been noted at this site, but most likely it has natural sources (organic decomposition). Salmon presence has also been noted.

28 Huge Purdy #4 Rocky #6 Vaughn #1 Minter #1 Ray Nash Mark Dickson #2 Mark Dickson Crescent #4 Crescent Minter Creek Monitoring Site Minter Creek, located in the KGI watershed, flows 6.3 miles to Henderson Bay. It supports Chinook, coho, steelhead, cutthroat, and chum. Minter Creek is designated as core summer habitat and according to state water quality standards, water temperature should be 16 C, dissolved oxygen should be 9.5 mg/l, ph should fall between 6.5 and 8.5. Minter Creek has one volunteer that monitors Site 1 located upstream of the State Fish Hatchery. Sullivan

29 This graph shows ph levels during ph did meet the state standards on all sampling dates. This graph shows dissolved oxygen levels and water temperatures during State standards for temperature and dissolved oxygen were met on all sampling dates.

30 There are no state standards for nitrates at this time. This graph displays turbidity levels for the 2017 water year. Dredging of the creek occurs annually which could relate to the high turbidity on August The high turbidity on November corresponds to a rain event. Summary Minter Site 1 met state standards for all measured parameters. Salmon are present at this site due to the state fish hatchery.

31 Huge Purdy #4 Purdy Creek Monitoring Site Rocky #6 Vaughn #1 Minter #1 Ray Nash Mark Dickson #2 Mark Dickson Crescent #4 Crescent Purdy Creek, located in the KGI watershed, flows approximately 3.5 miles from Kitsap County into the southeast corner of Burley Lagoon. Purdy Creek has runs of Chinook, coho, chum, steelhead, and cutthroat trout. Purdy Creek is designated as core summer habitat and according to state water quality standards, water temperature should be 16 C, dissolved oxygen should be 9.5 mg/l, and ph should fall between 6.5 and 8.5. Volunteers monitor Site 4 which is located upstream of the culvert under 144 th St NW, adjacent to the Purdy park and ride. Sullivan

32 This graph shows ph levels during ph did meet the state standards on all sampling dates. This graph shows dissolved oxygen levels and water temperatures during State standards for temperature and dissolved oxygen were met on all sampling dates.

33 There are no state standards for nitrates at this time. This graph displays the turbidity results for all sampling dates in the 2017 water year. There was no measurable turbidity on all the sampling days. Summary Purdy Site 4 met state standards for all measured parameters. Homeless camps have been noted at this site.

34 Huge Purdy #4 Ray Nash Creek Monitoring Site Rocky #6 Vaughn #1 Minter #1 Ray Nash Mark Dickson #2 Mark Dickson Crescent #4 Crescent Ray Nash Creek, located in the KGI watershed, flows approximately 1 mile and empties into a small tidal inlet south of Raft Island. Ray Nash Creek has runs of coho, chum, and cutthroat trout. Ray Nash Creek is designated as core summer habitat and according to state water quality standards, water temperature should be 16 C, dissolved oxygen should be 9.5 mg/l, and ph should fall between 6.5 and 8.5. Volunteers monitor Site 1 which is located upstream of the intersection of Ray Nash Court NW on Ray Nash Drive NW Sullivan

35 This graph shows ph levels during ph did meet the state standards on all sampling dates. This graph shows dissolved oxygen levels and water temperatures during State standards for temperature were met on all sampling dates and dissolved oxygen were met on all but one sampling date.

36 This graph shows the nitrate-nitrogen levels for the 2017 water year. There are no state standards for nitrates at this time. This graph displays the turbidity results for the 2017 water year. Summary Ray Nash Site 1 met state standards for all measured parameters. The site is located in a less populated area of greater Gig Harbor, which could contribute to the higher water quality. Foam has been noted at this site. Deer and geese presence has also been noted.

37 Rocky #6 Vaughn #1 Huge Minter #1 Purdy #4 Crescent #4 Crescent Rocky Creek Monitoring Site Rocky Creek, located in the KGI watershed flows from its headwaters in Kitsap County (near Wye Lake) approximately 5 miles to Rocky Bay in Case Inlet. Rocky supports runs of Chinook, coho, chum, steelhead and cutthroat trout. Rocky Creek is designated as core summer habitat and according to state water quality standards, water temperature should be 16 C, dissolved oxygen should be 9.5 mg/l, and ph should fall between 6.5 and 8.5. Ray Nash Mark Dickson #2 Mark Dickson Sullivan Rocky Site 6 is located at the mouth of the creek where it flows into Rocky Bay. There are two newly added sites on Rocky Creek, but there is not yet enough data to report.

38 ph levels met state standards for all dates measured. This graph shows dissolved oxygen levels and water temperatures during State temperature standards were met on all sampling dates. State standards for dissolved oxygen were not met on several sampling dates.

39 There are no state standards for nitrates at this time. This graph displays the turbidity results for the 2017 water year. Summary Some of the low dissolved oxygen correspond to summer months when water temperature is typically higher. The November low dissolved oxygen could be related to organic decomposition. Typically, we would see higher dissolved oxygen readings in the winter months when the water is cooler and can hold more oxygen, and when flows are greater. Salmon and aquatic invertebrates have been noted at this site.

40 Huge Purdy #4 Sullivan Gulch Creek Monitoring Site Rocky #6 Minter #1 Crescent #4 Sullivan Gulch Creek, located in the KGI watershed, flows from its headwaters, a wetland in the Gig Harbor area to Carr Inlet. Coho, chum, and cutthroat Vaughn #1 Crescent trout use the lower reaches of the creek. Sullivan Gulch Creek is designated as core summer habitat and according to state water quality standards, water temperature should be 16 C, dissolved oxygen Ray Nash Mark Dickson #2 Mark Dickson should be 9.5 mg/l, and ph should fall between 6.5 and 8.5. Sullivan Gulch Creek Site 1 is located just downstream of its headwaters. Sullivan

41 This graph shows ph levels during ph did meet the state standards on all sampling dates. This graph shows dissolved oxygen levels and water temperatures during State temperature standards were met on all sampling dates. State standards for dissolved oxygen were not met on any sampling dates.

42 There are no state standards for nitrates at this time. This graph shows the turbidity results for the 2017 water year. There was no measurable turbidity data recorded. Summary The low dissolved oxygen readings are most likely due to gulch conditions of low and slow flow. Stemming from a wetland and runoff, Sullivan Gulch does not receive a lot of water and thus holds less dissolved oxygen in the creek flow.

43 Huge Purdy #4 Rocky #6 Vaughn #1 Minter #1 Ray Nash Mark Dickson #2 Mark Dickson Crescent #4 Crescent Vaughn Creek Monitoring Site Vaughn Creek, located in the KGI watershed, originates in a forested wetland and flows approximately one mile to Vaughn Bay on the west side of the Key Peninsula. It supports chum, coho, and cutthroat trout. Vaughn Creek is designated as core summer habitat and according to state water quality standards, water temperature should be 16 C, dissolved oxygen should be 9.5 mg/l, and ph should fall between 6.5 and 8.5. Site 1 is located just upstream of the mouth of Vaughn Creek. Sullivan

44 This graph shows ph levels during ph met the state standards on all but one sampling dates. This graph shows dissolved oxygen levels and water temperatures during State temperature standards were met on all sampling dates. State standards for dissolved oxygen were met on all but one sampling dates.

45 There are no state standards for nitrates at this time. This graph shows the turbidity results for sampling days in the 2017 water year. There were no observations recorded to explain the higher turbidity reading on November Summary The December low dissolved oxygen could be related to organic decomposition. Typically, we would see higher dissolved oxygen readings in the winter months when the water is cooler and can hold more oxygen, and when flows are greater. There are no recorded observations to explain the low ph reading on February Foam has been noted at this site.

46 Nisqually Watershed Streams and Sites Muck #10 Mashel River Monitoring Site The Mashel River is the largest tributary to the Nisqually River. It flows approximately 32 miles from its headwaters near Mt. Rainier to the Nisqually River. The Mashel supports runs of Fall Chinook, coho, pink salmon, and winter steelhead. The Mashel River is designated as char spawning/ rearing and according to state water quality standards, water temperature should be 12 C, dissolved oxygen should be 9.5 mg/l, and ph should fall between 6.5 and 8.5. Ohop #1 A volunteer stream monitor samples the Mashel Site 1 located in Smallwood Park, Eatonville. Mashel #1

47 This graph shows ph levels during ph met the state standards on all sampling dates. This graph shows dissolved oxygen levels and water temperatures during State temperature standards were met on all but two sampling dates. State standards for dissolved oxygen were met on all but one sampling dates.

48 There was no measurable nitrate readings recorded. There are no state standards for nitrates at this time. This graph displays turbidity results for the water year The higher turbidity reading on October could be related to recent showers reported by the monitor. The monitor noted the water was muddy. Summary The low dissolved oxygen and high water temperatures correspond to summer months with higher temperatures reduce the dissolved oxygen available.

49 Muck #10 Muck Creek Monitoring Site Ohop #1 Mashel #1 Muck Creek is a tributary of the Nisqually River in the Nisqually watershed. The mainstem of Muck Creek is about 14 miles long and has several tributaries including Lacamas Creek, North Fork and South Fork of Muck Creek. Muck Creek flows from its headwaters in the Graham area in a westerly direction through Roy to its confluence with the Nisqually River. Muck Creek, in its lower reaches, supports chum, coho salmon and winter steelhead. Muck Creek is designated as core summer habitat and according to state water quality standards, water temperature should be 16 C, dissolved oxygen should be 9.5 mg/l, and ph should fall between 6.5 and 8.5. A volunteer stream monitor samples the Muck Creek Site 10 located just downstream of its headwaters off 70 th Ave E in Graham.

50 This graph shows ph levels during ph met the state standards on all sampling dates. This graph shows dissolved oxygen levels and water temperatures during State temperature standards were met on all but one sampling dates. State standards for dissolved oxygen were not met on all but one sampling dates.

51 There are no state standards for nitrates at this time. This graph displays the turbidity levels on sampling dates during the 2017 water year. There are no recorded observations explaining the higher turbidity on 8/17/17. Summary At this site the creek is flowing out of a wetland at a low velocity which may account for the low dissolved oxygen. The volunteer recorded that it was raining at the time of the 2/16/17 sampling and had been raining on the previous day which may explain the spike in nitrate-nitrogen.

52 Muck #10 Ohop Creek Monitoring Site Ohop Creek, located in the Nisqually watershed, flows approximately 12 miles from its headwaters to the confluence with the Nisqually River. Coho, fall Chinook, and pink salmon are all known to use Ohop Creek and its tributaries. Ohop Creek is designated as core summer habitat and according to state water quality standards, water temperature should be 16 C, dissolved oxygen should be 9.5 mg/l, and ph should fall between 6.5 and 8.5. Ohop #1 Volunteers monitor Ohop Site 1 on the Grauwen Farm, owned by the Nisqually Land trust. Mashel #1

53 This graph shows ph levels during ph met the state standards on all sampling dates. This graph shows dissolved oxygen levels and water temperatures during State temperature standards were met on all but two sampling dates. State standards for dissolved oxygen were met on all but one sampling dates.

54 There are no state standards for nitrates at this time. This graph displays the turbidity results for all sampling dates in the 2017 water year. The volunteer noted showers the previous day for the June reading that may explain the higher turbidity result. Summary The dissolved oxygen readings in September 2017 could be low due to high water temperatures during the summer. In the summer flows are generally lower and the water is warmer, holding less oxygen. Crawfish and frogs have been noted at this site.

55 Puyallup Watershed Streams and Sites Swan #4 Swan #2 Swan #1 Fennel #5 Fennel #2.5 Canyon Falls #2 Inglin #1 S Prairie #2 S Prairie #4.1 Wilkeson #3.2 Voights #0.5 Coplar #1

56 Fennel #5 Canyon Falls #2 Fennel #2.5 S Prairie #4.1 Inglin #1 S Prairie #2 Wilkeson #3.2 Canyon Falls Creek Monitoring Site Canyon Falls Creek is located in the Puyallup watershed; originating in the foothills east of McMillan it flows approximately three miles to its confluence with the Puyallup River. Coho, Chinook, chum, and pink salmon have been observed spawning in the lower reaches of the creek. Canyon Falls Creek is designated as core summer habitat and according to state water quality standards, water temperature should be 16 C, dissolved oxygen should be 9.5 mg/l, and ph should fall between 6.5 and 8.5. Voights #0.5 Volunteers monitor Canyon Falls Site 2 just upstream of the culvert under McCutcheon Road. Coplar #1

57 This graph shows ph levels during ph met the state standards on all sampling dates. This graph shows dissolved oxygen levels and water temperatures during State temperature and dissolved oxygen standards were met on all sampling dates.

58 There are no state standards for nitrates at this time. This graph shows turbidity levels for water year There are no qualitative observations explaining the higher levels seen on several sampling dates. Summary Canyon Falls Site 2 met state standards for all measured parameters. Salmon have been observed in the November and December timeframe.

59 Coplar Creek Monitoring Site Coplar Creek, located in the Puyallup watershed, is approximately three miles long and is a small trib- Fennel #5 Fennel #2.5 utary to Voights Creek. It provides some spawning habitat for coho, chum, and winter steelhead. Canyon Falls #2 Inglin #1 S Prairie #2 Coplar Creek is designated as core summer habitat S Prairie #4.1 and according to state water quality standards, water temperature should be 16 C, dissolved ox- Wilkeson #3.2 ygen should be 9.5 mg/l, and ph should fall between 6.5 and 8.5. Voights #0.5 A volunteer monitors Coplar Creek site 1 just upstream of the confluence with Voights Creek. Coplar #1

60 This graph shows ph levels during ph met the state standards on all sampling dates. This graph shows dissolved oxygen levels and water temperatures during State temperature standards were met on all sampling dates. Dissolved oxygen levels met state standards on all but one sampling day.

61 There are no state standards for nitrates at this time. This graph shows turbidity for the 2017 water year. The volunteer noted rain the previous day of the October sampling and commented on the high turbidity. Summary There were no observations to explain the low dissolved oxygen on the February sampling date. Typically, dissolved oxygen is higher in the winter due to low water temperatures. Low dissolved oxygen could be due to organic decomposition. We have determined this site is too dangerous to monitor and have stopped ongoing monitoring indefinitely.

62 Fennel Creek Monitoring Site Fennel #5 Canyon Falls #2 Fennel #2.5 S Prairie #4.1 Voights #0.5 Coplar #1 Inglin #1 S Prairie #2 Wilkeson #3.2 Fennel Creek, located in the Puyallup watershed, flows approximately 8 miles from its headwaters on the plateau near Bonney Lake to its confluence with the Puyallup River near Alderton. The lower reaches of Fennel (below Victor Falls) supports Chinook, coho, pink, chum and steelhead. Fennel Creek is designated as core summer habitat and according to state water quality standards, water temperature should be 16 C, dissolved oxygen should be 9.5 mg/l, and ph should fall between 6.5 and 8.5. Site 2.5 is located at th Ave. E., Bonney Lake above Victor Falls. It is accessed via a small park between two homes, and the monitoring takes place under the bridge. Site 5 is located at the west side of the bridge at McCutcheon Rd, below Victor Falls.

63 This graph shows ph levels during ph data met state standards on both sample dates. This graph shows dissolved oxygen levels and water temperatures during Water temperature met state standards on all sampling dates, while dissolved oxygen levels did not meet standards on one sampling date.

64 There are no state standards for nitrates at this time. This graph shows the turbidity levels for sampling dates during the 2017 water year. Summary The dissolved oxygen readings in July could be low due to high water temperatures during the summer. In the summer flows are generally lower and the water is warmer, holding less oxygen. This is a new site, so data for 2017 is limited.

65 This graph shows ph levels during ph data met state standards on all sampling dates. This graph shows dissolved oxygen levels and water temperatures during Water temperature met state standards on all sampling dates, while dissolved oxygen levels did not meet standards on December

66 There are no state standards for nitrates at this time. This graph displays the turbidity results for water year There was a rain event in the previous 24 hours of the March sampling date, which corresponds to the higher turbidity reading. Summary There were no observations from the volunteers to explain the low dissolved oxygen readings in December Typically, we would see higher dissolved oxygen readings in the winter months when the water is cooler and can hold more oxygen, and when flows are greater. Foam and fish have been noted at this site.

67 Inglin Creek Monitoring Site Fennel #5 Canyon Falls #2 Fennel #2.5 S Prairie #4.1 Inglin #1 S Prairie #2 Wilkeson #3.2 Inglin Creek, located in the Puyallup watershed, is a small tributary to South Prairie Creek and flows approximately one mile from the foothills southeast of the town of South Prairie. It provides some spawning habitat for coho, chum, and pink salmon. Inglin Creek is designated as core summer habitat and according to state water quality standards, water temperature should be 16 C, dissolved oxygen should be 9.5 mg/l, and ph should fall between 6.5 and 8.5. Voights #0.5 Coplar #1 Volunteers monitor Inglin Creek Site 1 just upstream of the mouth.

68 This graph shows ph levels during ph data met state standards on all sampling dates. This graph shows dissolved oxygen levels and water temperatures during Water temperature met state standards on all sampling dates, while dissolved oxygen levels did not meet standards on any sampling dates.

69 There are no state standards for nitrates at this time. This graph displays turbidity values for There was no measurable turbidity on all the sampling days. Summary Inglin Site 1 is located at the Pierce Conservation District s South Prairie Creek Preserve. This creek site is filled with grass that slows water, allowing dissolved oxygen to evaporate. This explains the low dissolved oxygen readings year round.

70 South Prairie Creek Monitoring Site Fennel #5 Canyon Falls #2 Fennel #2.5 S Prairie #4.1 Inglin #1 S Prairie #2 Wilkeson #3.2 South Prairie Creek, located in the Puyallup watershed, flows approximately 21 miles from its headwaters along the northwest foothills of Mt Rainier to its confluence with the Carbon River. It supports runs of Chinook, chum, pink, coho salmon, and steelhead. South Prairie Creek is designated as core summer habitat and according to state water quality standards, water temperature should be 16 C, dissolved oxygen should be 9.5 mg/l, and ph should fall between 6.5 and 8.5. Voights #0.5 Coplar #1 Volunteers monitor two sites on South Prairie Creek, Site 2 is located next to the Fire Station in the town of South Prairie and Site 4.1 is located at the South Prairie Creek Preserve.

71 This graph shows ph levels during ph data met state standards on all but one sampling date. This graph shows dissolved oxygen levels and water temperatures during Water temperature met state standards on all but one sampling dates. Dissolved oxygen state standards were met on all sampling dates.

72 There are no state standards for nitrates at this time. This graph shows the turbidity results for the 2017 water year. Summary The high water temperate for the July sampling date corresponds to summer months when the temperatures are typically higher. There were no observations to explain the low ph reading for the March date. The reading was barely below the state standard. The turbidity for April was noted as less than 5 JTU.

73 This graph shows ph levels during ph data met state standards on all sampling dates. This graph shows dissolved oxygen levels and water temperatures during Water temperature met state standards on all sampling dates. Dissolved oxygen state standards were met on all but one sampling dates.

74 There was no measurable nitrate readings during this time period. There are no state standards for nitrates at this time. This graph shows the turbidity results for the 2017 water year. Summary The dissolved oxygen reading on September could be low due to high water temperatures during the summer. In the summer flows are generally lower and the water is warmer, holding less oxygen. The higher turbidity readings for the March sampling date could be due to showers noted by the volunteer. There were no observations recorded for the December sampling date to explain the higher turbidity.

75 Swan #4 Swan #2 Swan #1 Swan Creek Monitoring Site Swan Creek is a tributary to Clear Creek in the Puyallup watershed. It flows approximately 6 miles from headwaters south of Highway 512 to its confluence with Clear Creek. Swan Creek supports runs of chum and coho salmon. Swan Creek is designated as core summer habitat and according to state water quality standards, water temperature should be 16 C, dissolved oxygen should be 9.5 mg/l, and ph should fall between 6.5 and 8.5. Volunteers monitor Swan Creek at three locations: Site 1 is located upstream of the pedestrian bridge in lower Swan Creek Park, Site 2 is located about 200 downstream of Site 1, and Site 4 is located downstream of the Pioneer Way Road crossing.

76 This graph shows ph levels during ph data met state standards on all sampling dates. This graph shows dissolved oxygen levels and water temperatures during Water temperature met state standards on all sampling dates. Dissolved oxygen did not meet the state standards on several of the sampling dates.

77 There are no state standards for nitrates at this time. This graph shows the turbidity results for all sampling dates in the 2017 water year. Rain was noted by the monitor for the March sampling date which most likely contributed to the higher turbidity readings in March. Summary There were no observations by the monitor to explain the low dissolved oxygen readings during March Typically, we would see higher dissolved oxygen readings during the winter when flows are higher and faster. One interesting note is the creek tends to change course at this location throughout the year due to high flows.

78 This graph shows ph levels during ph data met state standards on all sampling dates. This graph shows dissolved oxygen levels and water temperatures during Water temperature met state standards on all sampling dates. Dissolved oxygen did not meet the state standards on several of the sampling dates.

79 There are no state standards for nitrates at this time. This graph displays turbidity values for There was no measurable turbidity on all the sampling days. Summary There were no observations to explain the low dissolved oxygen readings on October , January , or May Typically, we would see higher dissolved oxygen readings during the winter when flows are higher and faster. The readings were barely below the dissolved oxygen state standard. There was no monitoring conducted in November 2016 due to flooding. There was also no monitoring conducted in December 2016 due to salmon presence. Salmon are frequently noted at this site.

80 This graph shows ph levels during ph data met state standards on all sampling dates. This graph shows dissolved oxygen levels and water temperatures during Water temperature and dissolved oxygen met state standards on all sampling dates.

81 There are no state standards for nitrates at this time. This graph displays turbidity values for There was no measurable turbidity on all the sampling days. Summary Swan Site 4 met all state standards for the measured parameters. Trash and homeless encampments have been reported at this site. Lots of sediment deposition has been noted as well. This is not surprising based on the amount of sediment dredged upstream each year. Salmon presence has also been noted.

82 Voights Creek Monitoring Site Fennel #5 Canyon Falls #2 Fennel #2.5 S Prairie #4.1 Inglin #1 S Prairie #2 Wilkeson #3.2 Voights Creek, located in the Puyallup watershed, is a tributary to the lower Carbon River. It flows approximately 20 miles from its headwaters in the northwestern foothills of Mt Rainier to its confluence with the Carbon River. Voights Creek supports runs of Chinook, coho, and steelhead as well as occasional chum and pink salmon. Voights Creek is designated as core summer habitat and according to state water quality standards, water temperature should be 16 C, dissolved oxygen should be 9.5 mg/l, and ph should fall between 6.5 and 8.5. Voights #0.5 Coplar #1 Volunteers monitor Voights Creek Site 0.5 located adjacent to the Washington State Fish Hatchery along Highway 162.

83 This graph shows ph levels during ph data met state standards on all sampling dates. This graph shows dissolved oxygen levels and water temperatures during Water temperature and dissolved oxygen met state standards on all but one sampling dates for both.

84 There are no state standards for nitrates at this time. This graph shows the turbidity results for all sampling dates in the 2017 water year. Summary The dissolved oxygen readings on July could be low due to high water temperatures during the summer. In the summer flows are generally lower and the water is warmer, holding less oxygen. That would also explain the high temperature reading on September Salmon presence has been noted at this site associated with the hatchery.

85 Wilkeson Creek Monitoring Site Fennel #5 Canyon Falls #2 Fennel #2.5 S Prairie #4.1 Inglin #1 S Prairie #2 Wilkeson #3.2 Wilkeson Creek is a tributary to South Prairie Creek located in the Puyallup River Watershed. It flows about 12 miles from its headwaters in the Mt Baker Snoqualmie National Forest to its confluence with South Prairie Creek near the Town of South Prairie. The lower reaches of Wilkeson Creek support Chinook, coho, pink, chum, and steelhead. Wilkeson Creek is designated as core summer habitat and according to state water quality standards, water temperature should be 16 C, dissolved oxygen should be 9.5 mg/l, and ph should fall between 6.5 and 8.5. Voights #0.5 Coplar #1 Volunteers monitor Wilkeson Creek Site 3.2 located upstream of the Johns Road E. bridge.

86 This graph shows ph levels during ph data met state standards on all sampling dates. This graph shows dissolved oxygen levels and water temperatures during Water temperature met state standards on all but one sampling dates. Dissolved oxygen met state standards on all but two sampling dates.

87 There are no state standards for nitrates at this time. This graph shows turbidity results for all sampling dates in the 2017 water year. The high turbidity reading for March is related to storm event reported by the monitor. Summary The dissolved oxygen readings on July could be low due to high water temperatures during the summer. In the summer flows are generally lower and the water is warmer, holding less oxygen. There were no observations from the volunteers to explain the low dissolved oxygen readings on January Typically, we would see higher dissolved oxygen readings in the winter months when the water is cooler and can hold more oxygen, and when flows are greater. The high water temperature reading on August corresponds to high temperatures during the summer. Aquatic invertebrates have been noted at this site.