Volunteer monitors have a choice of the survey data sheets based upon their level of experience and the thoroughness of the information they wish to collect.
Below is a brief description of the types of survey data sheets available. For more information, read the standard operating procedures (SOPs)
for the survey level you are using. Note: Most survey data sheets are in PDF format.
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Level-1: Water chemistry is analyzed, depending on
what tests the group has available; basic physical observation, a simplified discharge and four habitat conditions are evaluated. Macroinvertebrates are assessed streamside
by estimating abundance and diversity.
A slightly simpler version of the survey is also available. If you choose to add pebble counts to the simpler version add this data sheet. Note: Level-1 surveys are good education and screening tools.
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Level-2: Water chemistry is analyzed,
depending on what tests the group has available; basic physical observation (including pebble counts),
discharge, and five habitat conditions are evaluated. Macroinvertebrates are assessed streamside, they are counted and the number of different families
are determined to the extent possible. Level-2 surveys are excellent for screening and for determining possible physical and biological disturbances.
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Level-3: Water chemistry is analyzed,
which at a minimum should include temperature, pH and dissolved oxygen;
basic physical observation and assessment (including pebble counts), discharge and 10 habitat conditions are evaluated. BMIs are assessed either streamside or in a
laboratory environment, they are counted or sub-sampled and family-level
identification is completed. Level-3 surveys are modified from the US EPA’s RBPs.
Summary data sheets make it easier to file/store, share and QA data. SOS developed spreadsheets for each level and encourages
volunteer monitors to take advantage of these tools (Level-1:
Level-2:
Level-3). Word document versions are available upon request. WV Save Our Streams also provides a data sheet
to evaluate physiochemical conditions; level-1
and level-2 data sheets for the
assessment of low gradient stream reaches; and data sheets for wetlands.