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MONITOR

For over 20 years, we have tracked water quality in marine embayments, as well as keeping a close eye on freshwater systems including ponds, streams, rivers and coves. By monitoring, we can then measure the quality of these water systems through comprehensive parameters and proven scientific methods that provide both qualitative and quantitative data. These data are shared with other science-based organizations, and provide the BCWC with a baseline to determine progress.

Measuring water quality through comprehensive, proven scientific methods provides data targeted for a strong and sustained ecological impact.

BCWC is monitoring the streamflow and nitrogen levels to determine how much nitrogen is flowing through the Marstons Mills River and into the Three Bays estuary.

BCWC has been monitoring the Marstons Mills River Herring Run and collecting data that estimates how many herring make it to Mill and Middle Ponds.

BCWC is an active participant in the Cape Cod Commission’s Cape Cod Pond and Lake Stewardship (PALS) program.  BCWC monitors 31 ponds and lakes in Barnstable.

BCWC has worked with UMass Dartmouth’s School for Marine Science and Technology (SMAST) for 15 years collecting water quality data.

BCWC has been an active member of the Massachusetts Office of Coastal Zone Management’s (CZM) Marine Invader Monitoring and Information Collaborative (MIMIC).

BCWC is partnering with Popponesset Water Stewardship Alliance in order to monitor the spread of a new species of red algae called Dasysiphonia japonica (D. japonica).

BCWC has been collecting water quality data at the Marstons Mills cranberry bogs, which is a collection area for the groundwater from much of the surrounding homes.

Monitoring in the Three Bays by our Partners

Learn about Shell Day, where multiple organizations collect water samples and water quality data at various locations along the coast from Long Island Sound to Downeast Maine. The samples are then analyzed for total alkalinity.

Check out this cool photo essay by Woods Hole Sea Grant and Cape Cod Cooperative Extension in response to questions asked by members of the Massachusetts shellfish aquaculture industry and learn all about this great project!

Check out the EPA's latest bulletin Exploring Solutions to Excess Nutrients: Restoring Cape Cod's Waters. Learn about their work addressing excessing nutrients, benthic conditions and their other projects.