Data Collection and Monitoring
The preparation of all of the background studies and maps as part of the source protection planning process requires the collection of a great deal of different types of data. Some of this data can be gathered from existing sources. For example, published reports, mapping and data from other sources have been used where possible.
We are also using data collected in conjunction with Cataraqui Region Conservation Authority (CRCA) monitoring programs. As one example, the CRCA has an ongoing program to measure and monitor water flows and water quality in area streams and rivers. This data is also being used in our drinking water source protection program.
The collection of specialized data such as wind and water current information and detailed information about a wellhead area's bedrock is required to be able to detemine the extent of intake protection zones and wellhead protection areas at municipal water intakes and wells.
An overview of our data collection and monitoring activities is provided below.
Water Quality and Quantity
Surface water (lakes, rivers and streams) and groundwater data from two existing provincial programs is being used in source protection planning.
Samples from 14 area rivers and streams are collected eight times per year under the Provincial Water Quality Monitoring Network (PWQMN). The samples that are collected are tested for a number of different parameters. This program has been operating since 1964 in the CRCA jurisdiction, so it provides good, long-term water quality information about our streams.
Streamflow monitoring is also done throughout the CRCA watershed as part of the flood forecasting and warning program. The CRCA and Environment Canada maintain eight stream gauges that continuously measure water levels and flows on creeks in the Cataraqui region.
The CRCA also measures precipitation and snow depth and quality at 12 rain gauges and seven snowcourse survey sites. This information has been used to help us determine the amount of surface water available within the Cataraqui Source Protection Area.
Information about groundwater levels and quality is provided, in part, through data collected
under the Provincial Groundwater Monitoring Network (PGMN). Seven wells are monitored through this program that has operated since 2002. Water level information is tracked remotely on an hourly basis and water quallity samples are taken annually.
In addition, water samples have been taken near the municipal drinking water intakes on Lake Ontario, the St. Lawrence River and Sydenham Lake. The samples were collected under a variety of wind and rain conditions to provide an indication of the quality of the untreated water going into the municipal systems.
Aquatic Invertebrate Sampling
Aquatic invertebrates are mainly insects that live in the water. The number and type of insects that are present in area streams provide a good indication of the health of that stream. For example, mayflies, stoneflies and caddisflies are sensitive to pollution. If a stream contains a large number of these insects, it probably has good quality water.
Samples have been collected since 2003. Since 2007 collection has been part of a provincial network known as the Ontario Benthos Biomonitoring Network (OBBN). The samples are collected in May and October each year at varying locations in streams that are accessible with hip waders. We are trying to collect data for a variety of environments, e.g. different levels of development, soil types and types of streams.
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