Metadata: Identification_Information: Citation: Citation_Information: Originator: Virginia Department Of Environmental Quality Publication_Date: 20251119 Title: Virginia Chesapeake Bay Nontidal Water Quality Monitoring Program Data Geospatial_Data_Presentation_Form: Spatial data set Online_Linkage: [https://www.chesapeakebay.net/what/data] Description: Abstract: Water quality monitoring results from July 1, 2024 through June 30, 2025 consisting of routine (monthly) monitoring of the nontidal component (primarily located at the Fall Lines) of the James, York, Rappahannock, Shenandoah Rivers and streams that feed into them (e.g. Appomattox, Chickahominy, Rapidan Rivers) for a total of 36 sites. The comprehensive Virginia Non-tidal Monitoring Program is conducted in a cooperative effort by VA DEQ and USGS and encompasses monthly routine monitoring as well as storm sampling at most sites to allow the computation of sediment and nutrient loading as well as status and trends. General water quality parameters monitored include dissolved oxygen, pH, temperature, salinity, specific conductance and gage height. Nutrient loadings and their effect on water quality are also monitored through total nitrogen (TN), total phosphorus (TP), total ammonia and sediment (total suspended solids and Suspended Sediment concentrations or at the 5 sites monitored since the 1980's the components of TN and TP - particulate carbon, particulate nitrogen, particulate phosphorus, dissolved nitrate, dissolved nitrate plus nitrite, dissolved orthophosphorus. Purpose: The VNTMP component of the 117e grant generates information allowing for a better understanding of the temporal and spatial aspects of water quality within the non-tidal tributaries of the Virginia portion of the Chesapeake Bay. The information will be analyzed to help evaluate progress toward, and factors influencing the reduction of nutrients and sediment to attain the water-quality criteria in the Bay and progress toward milestones required by the Chesapeake Bay TMDL. This objective will be met through a network that provides data for: 1. estimating nutrient and sediment loads 2. computing trends in the loads, concentrations and stream flow 3. providing information to improve calibration and verification of the watershed model 4. providing information that will be integrated with other data (such as changes in nutrient sources) to determine the factors affecting the concentrations, loads, and trends Time_Period_of_Content: Time_Period_Information: Range_of_Dates/Times: Beginning_Date: 20240701 Ending_Date: 20250630 Currentness_Reference: Ground Condition Status: Progress: Complete Maintenance_and_Update_Frequency: As needed Spatial_Extent: Bounding_Coordinates: West_Bounding_Coordinate: -79.897 East_Bounding_Coordinate: -77.3847 North_Bounding_Coordinate: +42.979 South_Bounding_Coordinate: +39.255 Keywords: Theme: Theme_Keyword_Thesaurus: CIMS Subject Keyword List Theme_Keyword: Monitoring Theme_Keyword: Nutrients Theme_Keyword: Water Quality Theme_Keyword: Dissolved oxygen Theme_Keyword: Nitrogen Theme_Keyword: Particulates Theme_Keyword: pH Theme_Keyword: Phosphorus Theme_Keyword: Specific conductance Theme_Keyword: Water temperature Theme_Keyword: Sediment Place: Place_Keyword_Thesaurus: User Defined Keyword List Place_Keyword: Accotink River Place_Keyword: Appomattox River Place_Keyword: Back Creek Place_Keyword: Bull Pasture Place_Keyword: Calf Pasture Place_Keyword: Catoctin Creek Place_Keyword: Chesapeake Bay Place_Keyword: Chickahominy River Place_Keyword: Deep Creek Place_Keyword: Difficult Run Place_Keyword: Dragon Swap Run Place_Keyword: James River Place_Keyword: Little River Place_Keyword: Mattaponi River Place_Keyword: Maury River Place_Keyword: Mechums River Place_Keyword: Muddy Creek Place_Keyword: North Fork Shenandoah River Place_Keyword: North Anna River Place_Keyword: Pamunkey River Place_Keyword: Po River Place_Keyword: Polecat Creek Place_Keyword: Rappahannock River Place_Keyword: Rapidan River Place_Keyword: Rivanna River Place_Keyword: Smith Creek Place_Keyword: South Fork Quantico Creek Place_Keyword: South River Place_Keyword: South Fork Shenandoah River Place_Keyword: Virginia Place_Keyword: York River Terms_of_Use: Data_Resource_Type: Downloadable Dataset URL: https://www.chesapeakebay.net/what/data URL: https://www.epa.gov/waterdata/water-quality-data URL: https://waterdata.usgs.gov/va/nwis/sw Metadata_Reference_Information: Chesapeake Bay Program Metadata Specification, May 7, 2025 [https://www.chesapeakebay.net/what/publications/chesapeake-bay-program-metadata-specification] Metadata_Date: 20250908 Metadata_Review_Date: 20250908 Metadata_Contact: Contact_Information: Contact_Organization_Primary: Contact_Organization: Virginia Department Of Environmental Quality Contact_Person: Cindy S. Johnson Contact_Position: Grant Coordinator Contact_Address: Address_Type: Mailing Address: PO BOX 1105 City: Richmond State_or_Province: VA Postal_Code: 23218 Country: USA Contact_Voice_Telephone: 804-698-4000 Contact_Facsimile_Telephone: Contact_Electronic_Mail_Address: cindy.johnson_no_spam_@deq.virginia.gov [remove _no_spam_ for valid email address] Data_Set_Credit: Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (VADEQ) staff collected the samples and processed the data. The Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services analyzed the chemical parameters. Access_Constraints: None Data_Quality_Information: Refer to Problem codes associated within the dataset and DAITS issues located at [https://www.chesapeakebay.net/what/publications/data-analysis-issues-tracking-system-daits] Process_Steps: Process_Description: Data collected for this project are obtained using the methods from the following resources: Methods and Quality Assurance for Chesapeake Bay Water Quality Monitoring Programs. Chesapeake Bay Program, May 2017, CBP/TRS-319-17 [https://d38c6ppuviqmfp.cloudfront.net/documents/CBPMethodsManualMay2017.pdf]. VA Dept. Of Environmental Quality - Quality Assurance Quality Control Project Plan for the Virginia Tributary Monitoring Program effective date Jul 1 2024 [https://www.deq.virginia.gov/our-programs/water/water-quality/monitoring/chesapeake-bay-monitoring] USGS Quality Assurance Plan: Virginia Nontidal Monitoring Network, US Geological Survey, July 2023 based on US Geological Survey Manual Methods [http://pubs.water.usgs.gov/twri9A] PARAMETER NAME: DO METHOD SUMMARY: Dissolved oxygen is obtained from the stream from just below the surface (approximately 0.3 meters depth) from several equal-width transects across the stream (from a bridge or in-stream wading) using a multi-probe as described in [https://d38c6ppuviqmfp.cloudfront.net/documents/CBPMethodsManualMay2017.pdf]. Multiprobe readings are allowed to equilibrate prior to recording a value. The median value from the transects is determined and entered into the database as representative of the stream at that date/time. CHANGES IN COLLECTION PROCESS: Prior to 2000, DEQ collections from the Fall Line Stations (CIMS stations TF5.0J, TF5.0A, TF4.0P, TF4.0M, and TF3.0) sampling occurred from a bridge and consisted of 5 equidistant measurements that were averaged. Depth of sample was always listed as 1 meter even though the sonde was lowered to just below the surface. After 2004 depth was listed as 0 meters and transects are determined by the width of the stream. Prior to 2017, method F01 was used. UNITS OF MEASUREMENT: mg/L METHOD: F04 PROCESS DATE: April 2017- present PARAMETER NAME: PH METHOD SUMMARY: A calibrated pH electrode (correcting for temperature) attached to a multi-probe sonde, is lowered into the water column and readings are obtained from the stream from just below the surface (approximately 0.3 meters depth) at several transects (from a bridge or in-stream wading) as described in [https://d38c6ppuviqmfp.cloudfront.net/documents/CBPMethodsManualMay2017.pdf]. The electrode readings are allowed to stabilize prior to taking the meter readings. The median value from the transects is determined and entered into the database as representative of the stream at that date/time. CHANGES IN COLLECTION PROCESS: Prior to 2000, DEQ collections from the Fall Line Stations (CIMS stations TF5.0J, TF5.0A, TF4.0P, TF4.0M, and TF3.0) sampling occurred from a bridge and consisted of 5 equidistant measurements that were averaged. Depth of sample was always listed as 1 meter even though the sonde was lowered to just below the surface. After 2004 depth was listed as 0 meters and transects are determined by the width of the stream.UNITS OF MEASUREMENT: Standard METHOD: F01 PROCESS DATE: July 1984 - present PARAMETER NAME: SPCOND METHOD SUMMARY: Specific conductance is obtained from the stream from just below the surface (approximately 0.3 meters depth) from several equal-width transects across the stream (from a bridge or in-stream wading) using a multi-probe as described in [https://d38c6ppuviqmfp.cloudfront.net/documents/CBPMethodsManualMay2017.pdf]. Multiprobe readings are allowed to equilibrate prior to recording a value. The median value from the transects is determined and entered into the database as representative of the stream at that date/time. CHANGES IN COLLECTION PROCESS: Prior to 2000, DEQ collections from the Fall Line Stations (CIMS stations TF5.0J, TF5.0A, TF4.0P, TF4.0M, and TF3.0) sampling occurred from a bridge and consisted of 5 equidistant measurements that were averaged. Depth of sample was always listed as 1 meter even though the sonde was lowered to just below the surface. After 2004 depth was listed as 0 meters and transects are determined by the width of the stream. EXCEPTIONS: None UNITS OF MEASUREMENT: umhos/cm METHOD: F01 PROCESS DATE: July 1984 - present PARAMETER NAME: WTEMP METHOD SUMMARY: Temperature is obtained from the stream from just below the surface (approximately 0.3 meters depth) from several equal-width transects across the stream (from a bridge or in-stream wading) using a multi-probe as described in [https://d38c6ppuviqmfp.cloudfront.net/documents/CBPMethodsManualMay2017.pdf]. Multiprobe readings are allowed to equilibrate prior to recording a value. The median value from the transects is determined and entered into the database as representative of the stream at that date/time. CHANGES IN COLLECTION PROCESS:Prior to 2000, DEQ collections from the Fall Line Stations (CIMS stations TF5.0J, TF5.0A, TF4.0P, TF4.0M, and TF3.0) sampling occurred from a bridge and consisted of 5 equidistant measurements that were averaged. Depth of sample was always listed as 1 meter even though there often may not have been enough water to sample at a depth of one meter. After 2004 depth was listed as 0 meters and transects are determined by the width of the stream. EXCEPTIONS: UNITS OF MEASUREMENT: Degrees Celsius METHOD: F01 PROCESS DATE: July 1984 - present. PARAMETER NAME: CHLA METHOD SUMMARY: This parameter is collected from the traditional RIM sites by USGS (TF3.0, TF4.0M, TF4,0P, TF5.0A, TF5.0J). Horizontally and vertically integrated samples are collected into a churn splitter across multiple equal-width transects (from a bridge or in-stream wading). After homogenizing the sample in the churn, 300 mLs of sample water is filtered in the field using a vacuum filter at 15 cm/Hg and with magnesium Carbonate added to the filter cup. The filter is folded in half to preserve the contents and placed inside a foil sheet. Samples are dropped off to DCLS the day of or in some instances the morning after collection for analysis. Analysis consists of a monochromatic, spectrophotometric determination, correcting for pheophytin and turbidity. The filters are placed in 90% aqueous acetone and ground to a uniform consistency with a tissue grinder. Samples are steeped overnight at 4 degrees Celsius in the dark. The extract is clarified by centrifugation. Spectrophotometric optical density readings are taken before and after acidification using 2 drops of 1 N HCL. Chlorophyll A is calculated from optical density readings using Lorenzen's equation. EXCEPTIONS: UNITS OF MEASUREMENT: ug/l METHOD: L01 PROCESS DATE: June 1985 -present PARAMETER: DOC METHOD SUMMARY: This parameter is collected from the traditional RIM sites by USGS (TF3.0, TF4.0M, TF4,0P, TF5.0A, TF5.0J). Horizontally and vertically integrated samples are collected into a churn splitter across multiple equal-width transects from a bridge. After collecting the sediment sample from the churn, filtered in the field using a 0.45um encapsulated filter and preserved with hydrochloric acid to pH <2. Samples are dropped off to DCLS the day of or in some instances the morning after collection for analysis. The organic carbon is converted to carbon dioxide by catalytic combustion. The carbon dioxide formed is measured directly by an infrared detector. UNITS OF MEASUREMENT: mg/L METHOD: L01 PROCESS DATE: 1985 - Present PARAMETER: FCOLI METHOD SUMMARY: A 125 mL water sample is collected just below the surface at the centroid of the bridge and labeled for date, time, depth, collector and station. Once the label is applied, the sample is immediately placed on ice to preserve it for courier delivery to VADCLS. In the laboratory, several different volumes of sample are filtered through sterile membrane filters, which are placed in M-FC medium and incubated at 44.5 +/- 0.2 degrees Celsius for 24 +/-2 hours. Fecal colonies are identified by their blue color. UNITS OF MEASUREMENT: colonies/100 mls METHOD: L02 PROCESS DATE: - present PARAMETER NAME: FSS METHOD SUMMARY: A Horizontally and vertically integrated sample is collected into a churn splitter across multiple equal-width transects across the stream from a bridge or in-stream wading. Sample water is collected into a 1/2 gallon cubitainer and labeled for date, time, depth, collector and station. Once the label is applied, the sample is immediately placed on ice to preserve it for courier delivery to the VADCLS. In the laboratory, the sample is filtered through a pre-weighed filter and dried to a constant weight at 103-105 degrees Celsius (TSS). The total suspended solids (TSS) are then combusted at 550 +/- degrees centigrade for 20 minutes in a muffle furnace and weighed. The final weight of the residue in mg/L is the fixed suspended solids (FSS). UNITS OF MEASUREMENT: mg/L METHOD: L01 PROCESS DATE: August 1984 - present PARAMETER NAME: HARDNESS METHOD SUMMARY: A Horizontally and vertically integrated sample is collected into a churn splitter across multiple equal-width transects (usually 10) from a bridge. A Homogenized sample is collected from the churn into a 1/2 gallon cubitainer labeled for date, time, depth, collector and station. Once the label is applied, the sample is immediately placed on ice to preserve it for courier delivery to the VADCLS. In the laboratory, MgEDTA is added to the sample, which exchanges magnesium on an equivalent basis for any calcium and/or other cations to form a more stable EDTA chelate. The free magnesium reacts with calmagite at a pH of 10 to give a red-violet complex, which is measured colorimetrically at 520 nm. UNITS OF MEASUREMENT: mg/L METHOD: L02 PROCESS DATE: April 1992 - present PARAMETER NAME:NH4F METHOD SUMMARY: This parameter is collected from the traditional RIM sites by USGS (TF3.0, TF4.0M, TF4,0P, TF5.0A, TF5.0J). Horizontally and vertically integrated samples are collected into a churn splitter across multiple equal-width transects (from a bridge or in-stream wading). A Homogenized sample is collected from the churn and filtered in the field using a 0.45um encapsulated filter and collected in a 1/2 gallon cubitainer. Once the label is applied, the sample is immediately placed on ice to preserve it for courier delivery to the VADCLS. In the laboratory, the sample is analyzed using a Seal Analyzer where is exposed to alkaline phenol and hypochlorite and forms indophenol blue. The absorbency of which is proportional to ammonia concentrations. The solution's color is intensified by sodium nitroprusside, heated and read colorimetrically using an autoanalyzer. CHANGES IN COLLECTION PROCESS: Initial filtration utilized 50 mm diameter filters. UNITS OF MEASUREMENT: mg/L METHOD: L01 PROCESS DATE: June 1984 - present PARAMETER NAME:NH4W METHOD SUMMARY: Horizontally and vertically integrated samples are collected into a churn splitter across multiple equal-width transects (from a bridge or in-stream wading). A Homogenized sample is collected from the churn into a 1/2 gallon plastic container, labeled with station, date, time, depth and collector and place on ice for transportation to VADCLS. In the laboratory, sample is exposed to alkaline phenol and hypochlorite and forms indophenol blue. The absorbency of which is proportional to ammonia concentrations. The solution's color is intensified by sodium nitroprusside, heated and read colorimetrically using an autoanalyzer. CHANGES IN COLLECTION PROCESS: Initial filtration utilized 50 mm diameter filters. Prior to January 1994 VADCLS used a Technicon Auto Analyzer II, from January 1994- July 2023 a Skalar analyzer was used. On July 6, 2023 DCLS switched to a Seal Analyzer for this analysis. UNITS OF MEASUREMENT: mg/L METHOD: L01 PROCESS DATE: June 1984 - present PARAMETER NAME: NO2F METHOD SUMMARY: This parameter is collected from the traditional RIM sites by USGS (TF3.0, TF4.0M, TF4,0P, TF5.0A, TF5.0J). Horizontally and vertically integrated samples are collected into a 1/2 gallon churn splitter across multiple equal-width transects (from a bridge or in-stream wading). A Homogenized sample is collected from the churn and filtered in the field using a 0.45um encapsulated filter. labeled with station, date, time, depth and collector and placed on ice for transportation to VADCLS (See the Quality Assurance/Quality Control Project Plan for the Virginia Monitoring Program for further information). At the laboratory, the sample is filtered and passed through a granulated copper-cadmium column and nitrite is determined by diozotizing with sulfanilamide and coupling with N-(1-napthyl)ethylenediamine dihydrochloride to form a highly colored azo dye which is measured colorimetrically. UNITS OF MEASUREMENT: mg/L METHOD: L01 PROCESS DATE: July 1984 - present PARAMETER NAME: NO2W METHOD SUMMARY: Horizontally and vertically integrated samples are collected into a churn splitter across multiple equal-width transects (from a bridge or in-stream wading). A Homogenized sample is collected from the churn into a 1/2 gallon plastic container, labeled with station, date, time, depth and collector and place on ice for transportation to VADCLS. In the laboratory, the sample is filtered and passed through a granulated copper-cadmium column to reduce nitrate to nitrite. The nitrite (originally present plus reduced nitrate) is determined by diozotizing with sulfanilamide and coupling with N-(1-napthyl)ethylenediamine dihydrochloride to form a highly colored azo dye which is measured colorimetrically. Nitrate maybe obtained by subtracting the concentration of nitrite from the concentration of nitrite plus nitrate (Refer to the Chesapeake Bay Program methods paper (March 3, 1999) for further information). CHANGES IN COLLECTION/REPORTING PROCESS: Initial filtration utilized 50 mm filters. Prior to January 1994 VADCLS used a Technicon Auto Analyzer II, from January 1994- July 2023 a Skalar analyzer was used and on July 6, 2023 DCLS switched to a Seal Analyzer for this analysis. Also, while this parameter was analyzed by VADCLS on behalf of DEQ. DEQ reported the calculated parameter of NO3F instead of NO23F until July 1986 for all stations and from May 97 - Dec 97 for stations TF3.1B, TF3.2, and TF3.1E. DAITS ISSUES: 032 UNITS OF MEASUREMENT: mg/L METHOD: L01 (C01 1984-1986 and May 97 - Dec 97 for stations TF3.1B, TF3.2, and TF3.1E). PROCESS DATE: July 1986 - present PARAMETER NAME: NO23F METHOD SUMMARY: This parameter is collected from the traditional RIM sites by USGS (TF3.0, TF4.0M, TF4,0P, TF5.0A, TF5.0J). Horizontally and vertically integrated samples are collected into a churn splitter across multiple equal-width transects (from a bridge or in-stream wading). The homogenized sample is filtered in the field using a 0.45um encapsulated filter into a 1/2 gallon cubitainer. The sample is then labeled with station, date, time, depth and collector and placed on ice for transportation to VADCLS (See the Quality Assurance/Quality Control Project Plan for the Virginia Monitoring Program for further information). In the laboratory, the filtered sample is passed through a granulated copper-cadmium column and nitrite is determined by diozotizing with sulfanilamide and coupling with N-(1-napthyl)ethylenediamine dihydrochloride to form a highly colored azo dye which is measured colorimetrically. UNITS OF MEASUREMENT: mg/L METHOD: L01 PROCESS DATE: July 1984 - present PARAMETER NAME: NO23W METHOD SUMMARY: Sample water is collected in a 1/2 gallon plastic container, labeled with station, date, time, depth and collector and place on ice for transportation to VADCLS. In the laboratory, the filtered sample is passed through a granulated copper-cadmium column to reduce nitrate to nitrite. The nitrite (originally present plus reduced nitrate) is determined by diozotizing with sulfanilamide and coupling with N-(1-napthyl)ethylenediamine dihydrochloride to form a highly colored azo dye which is measured colorimetrically. Nitrate and nitrite are determined separately by conducting the analysis with and without the reduction step. Nitrate maybe obtained by subtracting the concentration of nitrite from the concentration of nitrite plus nitrate (Refer to the Chesapeake Bay Program methods paper (March 3, 1999) for further information). CHANGES IN COLLECTION/REPORTING PROCESS: Initial filtration utilized 50 mm filters. Prior to January 1994 VADCLS used a Technicon Auto Analyzer II, from January 1994- July 2023 a Skalar analyzer was used and on July 6, 2023 DCLS switched to a Seal Analyzer for this analysis. Also, while this parameter was analyzed by VADCLS on behalf of DEQ. DEQ reported the calculated parameter of NO3F instead of NO23F until July 1986 for all stations and from May 97 - Dec 97 for stations TF3.1B, TF3.2, and TF3.1E. DAITS ISSUES: 032 UNITS OF MEASUREMENT: mg/L METHOD: L01 (C01 1984-1986 and May 97 - Dec 97 for stations TF3.1B, TF3.2, and TF3.1E). PROCESS DATE: July 1986 - present PARAMETER NAME: PC METHOD SUMMARY: This parameter is collected from the traditional RIM sites by USGS (TF3.0, TF4.0M, TF4,0P, TF5.0A, TF5.0J).Horizontally and vertically integrated samples are collected into a churn splitter across multiple equal-width transects (from a bridge or in-stream wading). After homogenizing the sample in the churn, water is collected in a 1/2 gallon cubitainer, labeled with station, date, time depth and collector and placed in ice for delivery to VADCLS. The lab then filters the sample and combusts the filter at 975 - 1050 degrees Celsius using an elemental analyzer. Organic and inorganic carbons form carbon dioxide gas, which passes through a series of thermal conductivity detectors. CHANGES IN COLLECTION/REPORTING PROCESS: Initially PC was collected on a 13 mm filter. DEQ changed to 25 mm in March 1985. UNITS OF MEASUREMENT: mg/L METHOD: L01 PROCESS DATE: January 1994 - present PARAMETER NAME: PHEO METHOD SUMMARY: This parameter is collected from the traditional RIM sites by USGS (TF3.0, TF4.0M, TF4,0P, TF5.0A, TF5.0J). Horizontally and vertically integrated samples are collected into a churn splitter across multiple equal-width transects (from a bridge or in-stream wading). After homogenizing the sample in the churn, 300 mLs of sample water is filtered in the field using a vacuum filter at 15 cm/Hg and with magnesium Carbonate added to the filter cup. The filter is folded in half to preserve the contents and placed inside a foil sheet. Samples are dropped off to DCLS the day of or in some instances the morning after collection for analysis.. Samples are dropped off to DCLS the day of or in some instances the morning after collection for analysis. Analysis consists of a monochromatic, spectrophotometric determination, correcting for pheophytin and turbidity. The filters are placed in 90% aqueous acetone and ground to a uniform consistency with a tissue grinder. Samples are steeped overnight at 4 degrees Celsius in the dark. The extract is clarified by centrifugation. Spectrophotometric optical density readings are taken before and after acidification using 2 drops of 1 N HCL. Pheophytin is calculated from optical density readings using Lorenzen's equation: PHEO=(26.7*((1.7*(OD665A-OD750A)-(OD664B-OD750B))*EXVOL_ML)/(SAMVOL_L*LIPAT_CM). CHANGES IN COLLECTION PROCESS: Initially the 2 Liter brown plastic containers containing 3 mls of MgCO3 were immediately iced to 4 degrees Celsius and delivered to VCU for filtration and analysis within 24 hours of collection. In September of 1998 VADCLS began to perform the analyses used to calculate pheophytin for VADEQ. Sample collection and preservation remained the same, except the samples were picked up at the regional offices by a courier contracted by VADCLS and delivered to the lab by 7:00 am for analysis. May 1999 VADEQ began field filtration. Samples are obtained in a plastic container and between 300 ml - 1000 ml are filtered on GFF filters. The filters are then sealed in aluminum, placed in a Ziplock bag and iced to 4 degrees Celsius for pickup by courier. From Sept 1998 through February 2001 DCLS reported optical densities to 3 decimal places. Pheophytin values were determined with 4 decimal places. UNITS OF MEASUREMENT: mg/L METHOD: L01 PROCESS DATE: June 1985 - present PARAMETER NAME: PIP METHOD SUMMARY: This parameter is collected from the traditional RIM sites by USGS (TF3.0, TF4.0M, TF4,0P, TF5.0A, TF5.0J). Horizontally and vertically integrated samples are collected into a churn splitter across multiple equal-width transects (from a bridge or in-stream wading). After homogenizing the sample in the churn, water is collected in a 1/2 gallon cubitainer, labeled with station, date, time depth and collector and placed in ice for delivery to VADCLS. The phosphorus is extracted overnight with 1 N HCL. Ammonium molybdate and antimony potassium tartrate are added in acid medium to from an antimony-phospho-molybdate complex. This is reduced to a blue-colored complex by ascorbic acid, which is then determined with a spectrophotometer. UNITS OF MEASUREMENT: mg/L METHOD: L01 PROCESS DATE: February 1994 through December 1994 PARAMETER NAME: PN METHOD SUMMARY: This parameter is collected from the traditional RIM sites by USGS (TF3.0, TF4.0M, TF4,0P, TF5.0A, TF5.0J). Horizontally and vertically integrated samples are collected into a churn splitter across multiple equal-width transects (from a bridge or in-stream wading). After homogenizing the sample in the churn, water is collected in a 1/2 gallon cubitainer, labeled with station, date, time depth and collector and placed in ice for delivery to VADCLS. VADCLS filters the sample and combusts it at 975 - 1050 degrees Celsius using an elemental analyzer. Organic and inorganic carbons form carbon dioxide gas which passes through a series of thermal conductivity detectors. CHANGES IN COLLECTION/REPORTING PROCESS: Initially PN was collected on a 13 mm filter. DEQ changed to 25 mm in March 1985. UNITS OF MEASUREMENT: mg/L METHOD: L01 PROCESS DATE: January 1994 - present PARAMETER NAME: P04F METHOD SUMMARY: Horizontally and vertically integrated samples are collected into a churn splitter across multiple equal-width transects (from a bridge or in-stream wading). After homogenizing the sample in the churn, water is collected in a 1/2 gallon cubitainer, labeled with station, date, time depth and collector and placed in ice for delivery to VADCLS. VADCLS filters the sample and adds Ammonium molybdate and antimony potassium tartrate in an acid medium to form an antimony-phospho-molybdate complex. This complex is reduced to an intensely blue-colored complex by ascorbic acid and is measured colorimetrically using an auto-analyzer. A salinity correction is applied as necessary (refer to Chesapeake Bay Program methods paper (March 3, 1999) for further information). CHANGES IN COLLECTION/REPORTING PROCESS: Initial filtration utilized 50 mm filters. Prior to January 1994 VADCLS used a Technicon Auto Analyzer II, from January 1994- July 2023 a Skalar analyzer was used. On July 6, 2023 DCLS switched to a Seal Analyzer for this analysis. UNITS OF MEASUREMENT: mg/L METHOD: L01 PROCESS DATE: July 1984 - present PARAMETER NAME: PP METHOD SUMMARY: This parameter is collected from the traditional RIM sites by USGS (TF3.0, TF4.0M, TF4,0P, TF5.0A, TF5.0J). Horizontally and vertically integrated samples are collected into a churn splitter across multiple equal-width transects (from a bridge or in-stream wading). After homogenizing the sample in the churn, water is collected in a 1/2 gallon cubitainer, labeled with station, date, time depth and collector and placed in ice for delivery to VADCLS. VADCLS filters the sample on a 0.7 um filter weighs it, and combusts it at 550 degrees Celsius to convert organically bound phosphorus to phosphate. Phosphate is extracted with HCL and measured by the automated ascorbic acid method for PO4. CHANGES IN COLLECTION/REPORTING PROCESS: Initial filtration utilized 50 mm filters. In January 1994 VADCLS began using a Skalar analyzer for nutrient series instead of the Technicon Auto Analyzer II. UNITS OF MEASUREMENT: mg/L METHOD: L01 PROCESS DATE: July 1984 - present PARAMETER NAME: SSC_SAND METHOD SUMMARY: The sediment that passed through the 63-um sieve when determining SSC_SAND (see below) and through the filter funnel onto a pre-weighed filter is dried and weighed. This is the fine fraction of the sediment. METHOD: L03 PROCESS DATE: October 2004-present PARAMETER NAME: SSC_SAND METHOD SUMMARY: After determining SSC_Total (see below), the sample is transferred to a 63-um sieve that has been placed in a porcelain evaporating dish all sample is washed onto the sieve with deionized water (gravity flow). The sand fraction (coarse) is rinsed into a pre-weighted evaporating dish and weighed. The sediment that passes through the 63 uM sieve is passed through a filter funnel onto a pre-weighed filter. The weight of the dried sample retained on the 63_um screen = SSC_SAND. UNITS OF MEASUREMENT: mg/L METHOD: L01 PROCESS DATE: October 2004-present PARAMETER NAME: SSC_TOTAL METHOD SUMMARY: Horizontally and vertically integrated samples are collected into a churn splitter across multiple equal-width transects (from a bridge or in-stream wading). After homogenizing the sample in the churn, water is collected in a one quart cubitainer, labeled with station, date, time depth and collector and placed in ice for delivery to VADCLS. The sample is allowed to settle and decanted to a volume 40-70 mls and transferred to a weighed evaporating dish. The evaporated dish is dried to a constant weight (2 hours) at 103-105 Deg. C. The sample is then filtered and dried overnight at 103-105 deg. The weight of the evaporated sample less the weight of the empty dish = SSC_Total. (See the Quality Assurance/Quality Control Project Plan for the Virginia Monitoring Program for further information). CHANGES IN COLLECTION/REPORTING PROCESS: UNITS OF MEASUREMENT: mg/L METHOD: L01 PROCESS DATE: October 2004-present PARAMETER NAME: SSC_%FINE METHOD SUMMARY: Horizontally and vertically integrated samples are collected into a churn splitter across multiple equal-width transects (from a bridge or in-stream wading). After homogenizing the sample in the churn, water is collected in a one quart cubitainer, labeled with station, date, time depth and collector and placed in ice for delivery to VADCLS. The sample is allowed to settle and decanted to a volume 40-70 mls and transferred to a weighed evaporating dish. The total, sand and fine determinations are made and % fine is then calculated as (SSC_FINE/SSC_TOTAL)*100. (See the Quality Assurance/Quality Control Project Plan for the Virginia Monitoring Program for further information). UNITS OF MEASUREMENT: PCT METHOD: D01 PROCESS DATE: October 2004-present PARAMETER NAME: SIF METHOD SUMMARY: This parameter is collected from the traditional RIM sites by USGS (TF3.0, TF4.0M, TF4,0P, TF5.0A, TF5.0J). Horizontally and vertically integrated samples are collected into a churn splitter across multiple equal-width transects (from a bridge or in-stream wading). After homogenizing the sample in the churn, water is collected in a 1/2 gallon cubitainer, labeled with station, date, time depth and collector and placed in ice for delivery to VADCLS. VADCLS filters the sample and combusts it at 975 - 1050 degrees Celsius using an elemental analyzer.(See the Quality Assurance/Quality Control Project Plan for the Virginia Monitoring Program for further information). An automated colorimetric method based on the reduction of silicomolybdate in acidic solution to 'Molybdenum blue' (heteropoly blue) by ascorbic acid. Oxalic acid is introduced to the sample stream before addition of ascorbic acid to eliminate interference from phosphates. The absorbance is determined at 660 or 815 nm. CHANGES IN COLLECTION/REPORTING PROCESS: Initial filtration utilized 50 mm filters. In January 1994 VADCLS began using a Skalar analyzer for nutrient series instead of the Technicon Auto Analyzer II. DAITS ISSUE: 032 UNITS OF MEASUREMENT: mg/L METHOD: L03 PROCESS DATE: July 1984-July 1991 January 1994-present PARAMETER NAME: TDN METHOD SUMMARY: Horizontally and vertically integrated samples are collected into a churn splitter across multiple equal-width transects (from a bridge or in-stream wading). After homogenizing the sample in the churn, water is collected in a 1/2 gallon cubitainer, labeled with station, date, time depth and collector and placed in ice for delivery to VADCLS. VADCLS filters the sample and adds Ammonium molybdate and antimony potassium tartrate in an acid medium to form an antimony-phospho-molybdate complex. This complex is reduced to an intensely blue-colored complex by ascorbic acid and is measured colorimetrically using an auto-analyzer. A salinity correction is applied as necessary (refer to Chesapeake Bay Program methods paper (March 3, 1999) for further information). CHANGES IN COLLECTION/REPORTING PROCESS: The filter sample is run through an alkaline persulfate wet oxidation to change all N- containing compounds into nitrate. Nitrate concentration is determined using an auto analyzer equipped with a cadmium reduction column. CHANGES IN COLLECTION/REPORTING PROCESS: In January 1994 VADCLS began using a Skalar analyzer for nutrient series instead of the Technicon Auto Analyzer II. UNITS OF MEASUREMENT: mg/L METHOD: L01 PROCESS DATE: January 1994 - present PARAMETER NAME: TDP METHOD SUMMARY: Horizontally and vertically integrated samples are collected into a churn splitter across multiple equal-width transects (from a bridge or in-stream wading). After homogenizing the sample in the churn, water is collected in a 1/2 gallon cubitainer, labeled with station, date, time depth and collector and placed in ice for delivery to VADCLS. VADCLS filters the sample and runs it through an alkaline persulfate wet oxidation, which turns acidic and changes all P-containing compounds into phosphate. Phosphorus is measured as PO4 using EPA 365.1, an automated spectrophotometric method. CHANGES IN COLLECTION/REPORTING PROCESS: In January 1994 VADCLS began using a Skalar analyzer for nutrient series instead of the Technicon Auto Analyzer II. UNITS OF MEASUREMENT: mg/L METHOD: L01 PROCESS DATE: July 1984 - present PARAMETER NAME: TP METHOD SUMMARY: Horizontally and vertically integrated samples are collected into a churn splitter across multiple equal-width transects (from a bridge or in-stream wading). After homogenizing the sample in the churn, water is collected in a 250 mL bottle and acidified with Sulfuric Acid (1 mL 1:7). The sample bottle is labeled with station, date, time depth and collector and placed in ice for delivery to VADCLS. VADCLS filters the sample and a heated acid persulfate digestion converts organic P to PO4. The digestate is analyzed in an autoanalyzer where ammonium molybdate and antimony potassium tartrate react in an acid medium with dilute solutions of phosphorus to form an antimony-phospho-molybdate complex. This complex is reduced to an intensely blue-colored complex by ascorbic acid. The color is proportional to the phosphorus concentration. Color is measured at 650, 660 or 880 nm. UNITS OF MEASUREMENT: mg/L METHOD: L01 PROCESS DATE: July 1984 - Present PARAMETER NAME: TSS METHOD SUMMARY: Horizontally and vertically integrated samples are collected into a churn splitter across multiple equal-width transects (from a bridge or in-stream wading). After homogenizing the sample in the churn, water is collected in a quart cubitainer (or larger container) labeled for date, time, depth, collector and station. Once the label is applied, the sample is immediately placed on ice to preserve it for courier delivery to the VADCLS. In the laboratory, an aliquot of the sample is filtered through a pre-weighed filter and dried to a constant weight at 103-105 degrees Celsius. The final weight of the residue in mg/L is the total suspended solids. UNITS OF MEASUREMENT: mg/L METHOD: L01 PROCESS DATE: August 1984 - present PARAMETER NAME: TURB_NTU METHOD SUMMARY: Horizontally and vertically integrated samples are collected into a churn splitter across multiple equal-width transects (from a bridge or in-stream wading). After homogenizing the sample in the churn, water is collected in a quart cubitainer (or larger container) labeled for date, time, depth, collector and station. Once the label is applied, the sample is immediately placed on ice to preserve it for courier delivery to the VADCLS. A comparison of the intensity of light scattered by the sample with the intensity of light scattered by a standard reference suspension of formazin. Readings, in NTUs are considered comparable to FTUs. UNITS OF MEASUREMENT: NTU METHOD: L01 PROCESS DATE: January 1993 - present. PARAMETER NAME: VSS METHOD SUMMARY: Horizontally and vertically integrated samples are collected into a churn splitter across multiple equal-width transects (from a bridge or in-stream wading). After homogenizing the sample in the churn, water is collected in a quart cubitainer (or larger container) labeled for date, time, depth, collector and station. Once the label is applied, the sample is immediately placed on ice to preserve it for courier delivery to the VADCLS. In the laboratory, the sample is filtered through a pre-weighed filter and dried to a constant weight at 103-105 degrees Celsius (TSS). The total suspended solids (TSS) are then combusted at 550 +/- degrees centigrade for 20 minutes in a muffle furnace. The final weight of the residue in mg/L is the fixed suspended solids (FSS). The difference between the total suspended solids and the fixed suspended solids represents the volatile suspended solids (VSS). This is a calculated parameter that continues to be collected by DEQ but is not reported to CIMS. UNITS OF MEASUREMENT: mg/L METHOD: C01 PROCESS DATE: August 1984 - July 1991 Process_Date: Unknown Attribute_Accuracy: Refer to Virginia DEQ Quality Assurance and Quality Control Project Plan Appendices for Log of Significant Changes and Chesapeake Bay Program's DAITS Attribute_Accuracy_Report: As a participating member of the Chesapeake Bay program, the Virginia Tributary Monitoring Program strives to provide high quality data. To assess the quality of a data set, the Chesapeake Bay Program utilizes detailed documentation of methods, protocols and quantitative proof of measurement control. Quality assurance data for chemical analyses measure precision and accuracy to determine both the repeatability of measurements and the closeness of an analytical measurement to a true value. The VADEQ quality assurance data include precision and accuracy comparisons both within the Virginia Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services (VADCLS, provides analytical services to VADEQ) and comparing results from VADCLS to other laboratories participating in the CB monitoring program. Field QA Data: Water temperature, specific conductance, dissolved oxygen and pH measurements are all obtained with electronic field instrumentation. The instruments are regularly calibrated for all parameters as recommended by the manufacturer. All parameters are calibrated at the start of each sampling week and checked at the end of each sampling day for drift. Maintenance or repair is performed if end of day checks are outside of tolerance. The temperature of the instruments are calibrated against a certified thermometer annually and the instruments are also visually inspected any source of equipment problems prior to each sampling event. A log is kept of calibration results and maintenance requirements. VADEQ began collecting field duplicates in 1999. Field duplicates are designated with a SAMPLE_ID of FS1 and FS2 (collected from same sample/churn by VADEQ) or S1 and S2 (two separate sets of transects are collected in separate churns and processed. These are collected by USGS). VADEQ's and USGS' Quality Assurance Project Plans (QAPPs) and Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) and VADCLS laboratory methods for Chesapeake Bay Program Monitoring follow the guidelines set in "Methods and Quality Assurance for Chesapeake Bay Water Quality Monitoring Programs" (US Environmental Agency. CBP/TRS-19-17. May 2017). VADEQ's documents are reviewed by VADEQ and VADCLS in April of each year for method changes and correctness. Finalized QAPPs and SOPs and submitted annually to the Chesapeake Bay Program QA Coordinator for approval prior to the start of each monitoring year. VADEQ's QAPPs and SOPs are downloadable from https://www.deq.virginia.gov/our-programs/water/water-quality/monitoring/chesapeake-bay-monitoring. VADCLS QAPPs and SOPs are available from VADCLS upon request. Additional Comments: In Water year 2025, Station 2-JMS279.41 on the Blue Ridge Parkway was not collected October - December 2024 as the Parkway was closed by the Federal Government due to unsafe conditions. Likewise, station 3-RPP147.49 was not accessible to VADEQ in February, May and June due to construction and unsafe wading conditions. Laboratory QA: Water Quality analyses are performed by the Virginia Division of Consolidated Laboratories or by the USGS Kentucky Sediment Laboratory (RIM sediment samples only). Samples are rejected if improperly preserved to 6 Celsius degrees (plus or minus 2 degrees), containers are damaged, are not properly sealed or labeled. Field precision is estimated with field splits. The Division of Consolidated Laboratory Services in Virginia (VADCLS) performs chemical analyses for VADEQ Services in Virginia. VADCLS utilizes laboratory replicates and laboratory spike samples to estimate laboratory precision and accuracy. Ten percent of samples analyzed (on a parameter by parameter basis) by VADCLS are randomly selected for lab replicate analysis. These QA/QC measures are maintained by VADCLS and are not submitted to the CBP water quality database. To further assure the highest quality data, VADCLS determines minimum detection limits (MDLs) for each parameter and does not submit information below the calculated MDL. The MDL is the lowest concentration of an analyte that can be quantified with reliability. Participants in the CBP currently determine the MDL from three times the standard deviation of seven replicates of a low-level ambient water sample. When instrument values are below the MDL, the value of the parameter is set to the detection limit and QUALIFIER is set to < in the C4 database however below detection data is provided to the Bay Program so that it may be requested by scientists to be used in models and trends as needed. Inter-organization QA data: VADEQ requires that any laboratory analyzing data on their behalf for the CBP participate in the CBP Data Integrity Workgroup (DIWG, formerly the Analytical Methods and Quality Assurance Workgroup (AMQAW)) and through DIWG in the Coordinated split Sample Program (CSSP). The CSSP collects samples from the mainstem and tributary areas of the Chesapeake Bay. Participating laboratories then analyze the samples in triplicate and submit the results to DIWG. DIWG statistically compares the laboratory results to those of 3- 5 other participating laboratories. DIWG then identifies parameters having low inter-laboratory agreement, estimates the system variability, and then tries to improve the level of agreement (Refer to [https://d18lev1ok5leia.cloudfront.net/chesapeakebay/documents/chesapeake_bay_program_mainstem_coordinated_split_sample_program_report_1994-1998.pdf]. Additionally the Commonwealth of Virginia requires any laboratory analyzing data for regulatory purposes be certified to perform that analysis through the Virginia Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Process (VELAP certified). Since DCLS is the VELAP authority for the Commonwealth, it is certified through the National Environmental Laboratory Accreditation Program conducted by the NELAC Institute or a comparable program. Data Analysis Issues Tracking System (DAITS): In 1990 the DAITS system was established to document program design changes and questions affecting the comparability of data submitted by various Chesapeake Bay participants. The DAITS system ensures the issues are thoroughly investigated and documented for future data users. Pending issues are usually referred to members of the appropriate Monitoring Subcommittee (MSC) workgroup for resolution and are stored at the Chesapeake Bay Program (Refer to the "Guide to Using the Chesapeake Bay Program Water Quality Monitoring Data" at www.chesapeakebay.net/wquality.html for further information). Logical_Consistency_Report: not applicable Completeness_Report: Parameters are omitted due to malfunction of equipment or when other considerations (e.g. poor weather, crew safety issues, site access or government shut down) preclude capturing the information. Entity_and_Attribute_Information: Overview_Description: Entity_and_Attribute_Overview: Virginia Nontidal Water Quality Monitoring Program Metadata_Standard_Name: FGDC-STD-001-1998 Metadata_Standard_Version: FGDC-STD-001-1998 Positional_Accuracy: Horizontal_Positional_Accuracy: Horizontal_Positional_Accuracy_Report: na Vertical_Positional_Accuracy: Vertical_Positional_Accuracy_Report: na Spatial_Data_Organization_Information: Direct_Spatial_Reference_Method: Point Spatial_Reference_Information: Horizontal_Coordinate_System_Definition: Geographic: Latitude_Resolution: 1.0E-5 Longitude_Resolution: 1.0E-5 Geographic_Coordinate_Units: Decimal degrees Geodetic_Model: Horizontal_Datum_Name: North American Datum of 1983 Ellipsoid_Name: Clarke 1866 Semi-major_Axis: 6,378,206.4 Denominator_of_Flattening_Ratio: 294.98 Distribution_Information: Distributor: Contact_Information: Contact_Organization_Primary: Contact_Organization: Chesapeake Bay Program Contact_Person: Mike Mallonee Contact_Position: Water Quality Data Manager Contact_Address: Address_Type: Mailing and Physical Address: 1750 Forest Drive, Suite 130 City: Annapolis State_or_Province: MD Postal_Code: 21401 Country: USA Contact_Voice_Telephone: 410.267.5785 Contact_Facsimile_Telephone: Contact_Electronic_Mail_Address: mstack_no_spam@chesapeakebay.net [remove _no_spam_ for valid email address] Distribution_Liability: None of the Chesapeake Bay Program partners nor any of their employees, contractors, or subcontractors make any warranty, expressed or implied, nor assume 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 formats Format_Information_Content: Light_Attenuation_Data, Monitoring_Event_Data, Optical_Density, Station_Information, and Water_Quality_Data. Digital_Transfer_Option: Online_Option: Computer_Contact_Information: Network_Address: Network_Resource_Name: [https://www.chesapeakebay.net/what/data] Access _Instructions: User defined data are available through the Chesapeake Bay Data Hub by choosing options from a picklist of all available data, date ranges,locations and parameters. Fees: none