Watershed Health Monitoring

Surface water is found in our lakes, rivers, creeks, streams, and wetlands. It is a key component of our environment and contributes to human health, wildlife habitat, and the economy. Otonabee Conservation has been involved in monitoring surface water quality since 1964. 

We collect samples from lakes and rivers at 20 locations throughout the watershed. These samples are collected monthly, from April until October each year. 16 locations are part of the Provincial Water Quality Monitoring Network (PWQMN). The PWQMN is a partnership with the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP). PWQMN samples analyzed for approximately 40 physical and chemical parameters.  We also collect samples at four more locations for our Watershed Report Cards.

Precipitation and water level data is collected from monitoring stations strategically located across the watershed.  This information is used in the Flood Forecasting and Low Water Response Programs delivered by Otonabee Conservation.  

Otonabee Conservation is a partner in the Provincial Groundwater Monitoring Network (PGMN). The PGMN is a partnership with the Ministry of the Environment, Conservation and Parks (MECP). Groundwater quality and quantity information is collected at 11 wells across the watershed. 

Information about groundwater quality and quantity is included in our Watershed Report Cards.

Biological indicators are living creatures that can tell us about the health of the environment. Aquatic bugs that live on the bottom of rivers, lakes, creeks, streams and wetlands are a type of biological indicator. These aquatic bugs are often the larval or juvenile stages of insects like dragonflies, stoneflies and mayflies. They are called benthic macroinvertebrates. Benthic means bottom dwelling, macro means you can see them without a microscope, and invertebrates are species without backbones.

Each species has a different tolerance to water quality conditions. This makes them great indicators of water quality and long-term aquatic health. We collect samples at 65 locations in the watershed over a five-year period. We identify the species found in each location which tells us about water quality. We can also use this information to identify changes in water quality over time. This data is shared with the Ontario Benthos Biomonitoring Network and used in our Watershed Report Cards.

Are you interested in monitoring? Become a Citizen Scientist!

There are many programs available for citizens to take part in. You can monitor water quality, climate change, wildlife, invasive species, or species at risk.

• Nature Watch
• Early Detection and Distribution Maps 
• Ontario Turtle Tally
• Ontario Reptile and Amphibian Atlas
• Marsh Monitoring Program 
• eBird
• Christmas Bird Count
• Community Collaborative Rain, Hail and Snow Network
• Lake Partner Program