Water Quality Data Dashboard makes science communication accessible to all
MWA is proud to be launching our Water Quality Data Dashboard for all who wish to view and use the data collected on the Musconetcong River and its tributaries. With over 80 sites represented, this is the first time a data viewing tool of this magnitude has been released by our organization. Our hope is that, through the Data Dashboard, folks will be able to take a closer look at the data that is collected in the Musconetcong River in order to stay informed about the quality of water that exists in their favorite fishing spot, park, or on their property.
Throughout the Musconetcong Watershed, there are many sites that have been monitored for a variety of water quality concerns. By exploring the map, users are encouraged to click on each site to find the link to view more information. By clicking this link, users will be able to learn more about a particular site and the rationale for monitoring. Then, users can explore the different data parameters that the site is monitored for, including phosphorus, nitrogen, total suspended solids, E. coli, and macroinvertebrates. An added tool within the data dashboard is the ability to view live data that is recorded continuously by sensor stations at select sites.
While MWA's day-to-day focus is the Musconetcong River and its tributaries, we recognize that water quality data is important to consider on a regional level.
The data dashboard project was funded through the Delaware River Watershed Initiative (DRWI), which is a partnership effort of organizations in the Delaware River Watershed with a goal of improving water quality in the tributaries to the Delaware, to improve water quality downstream. Through the DRWI, MWA has expanded our data reporting to include sites on the Paulins Kill, in partnership with The Nature Conservancy, and sites from the Lopatcong Creek, in partnership with the New Jersey Highlands Coalition and the Lopatcong Creek Initiative. While MWA’s day-to-day focus is the Musconetcong River and its tributaries, we recognize that water quality data is important to consider on a regional level.
The data pages that are available for viewing are updated whenever new data is available to report. While we have many data parameters currently available, we are planning to add new parameters, including chloride, bacteria sources, and phycocyanin levels, associated with harmful algal blooms, going forward.
The data we collect through regular monitoring helps inform the best ways to improve water quality in the Musconetcong, and sharing our data through the data dashboard allows partners, municipalities, and concerned community members to stay informed. The more who have knowledge of local water quality, the more who can help inspire positive change on water quality issues.
To begin exploring the Data Dashboard, visit our webpage here.
To become an MWA River Watcher, visit our webpage here.
This post was written by Samantha Johnson, Water Quality Field Specialist
