The Anacostia River Monitoring Program provides information regarding the current water conditions of the Anacostia River. Measurements include temperature, pH, depth, chlorophyll, and turbidity. To view real-time information, click on the green dots on the map to get station location and real-time data. To view data beginning from May 2008 click on the measurement graphs.

 

 

 

Dissolved Oxygen (DO)
DO is the amount of oxygen that is found in water and available to be used by aquatic organisms such as fish and shellfish. DO is a very important measure of water quality as low DO levels can stress organisms. In DC, the DO levels should range from 4.0 to 6.0 mg/L or greater, depending on the time of year. Warmer water can not hold as much oxygen as colder water.

 

Water Temperature
Water temperature is the measure of how warm on cold water feels. If water temperatures fluctuate constantly aquatic organisms such as fish and shellfish will become stressed. The chronic stressful conditions may cause the aquatic organisms to relocate to an area with more suitable water temperatures. Water temperatures should not exceed 89° F.

 

pH
pH is the measure of acidity or basicity of water. The pH range most suitable for aquatic organisms is between 6 to 8.5. The pH scale ranges from 0 to 14. Neutral pH is 7. Acids have a pH value of less than seven, while bases have a pH value higher than 7.

 

Turbidity
Turbidity is a measure of water clarity. Relatively clear water (low turbidity) is necessary for the growth of aquatic plants. Aquatic plants serve as nurseries for fish and shellfish.

 

Chlorophyll

Chlorophyll is a measure of the amount of algae (plants) in water. Chlorophyll is the main chemical responsible for photosynthesis in plants, the process by which sunlight is converted into food energy. Too much algae robs the water of adequate dissolved oxygen for other aquatic organisms survival.