Addison County Riverwatch Collaborative 2013 Water Quality Summary Report

Summary Report: 2013 Sampling Results Addison County Riverwatch Collaborative
24 February 2014
Prepared by: Kristen Underwood South Mountain Research & Consulting and Addison County Riverwatch Collaborative Prepared for: Jim Kellogg VTDEC Water Quality Division
Digital copy of this report available for download at: www.acrpc.org/acrwc
Addison County Riverwatch Collaborative 24 Februrary 2014
Summary Report: 2013 Sampling Results
TABLE OF CONTENTS
1.0 2.0 3.0 4.0 5.0 6.0 7.0
Introduction ......................................................................................................................... 1 Background .......................................................................................................................... 1 Methods ............................................................................................................................... 3 Precipitation Data ................................................................................................................ 5 Hydrologic Data.................................................................................................................... 6 Sample Results ..................................................................................................................... 9 References ......................................................................................................................... 12
Appendix A Physical Features of Watersheds Appendix B Precipitation and Flow Data Appendix C Water Quality Data Tables by Watershed Appendix D QA Summary Report Attachments 1 2 3 4 5 6 Lemon Fair River 2013 Water Quality Summary Lewis Creek 2013 Water Quality Summary Little Otter Creek 2013 Water Quality Summary Middlebury River 2013 Water Quality Summary New Haven River 2013 Water Quality Summary Otter Creek (Lower) 2013 Water Quality Summary
South Mountain Research & Consulting
Addison County Riverwatch Collaborative 24 February 2014
Summary Report: 2013 Sampling Results Page 1
1.0
Introduction
This report provides a brief summary of the 2013 sampling results for the Addison County Riverwatch Collaborative (ACRWC). Sampling was carried out by a network of volunteers, with logistical and technical support provided by Ethan Swift of the VTDEC Monitoring, Assessment and Planning Program, Kevin Behm of the Addison County Regional Planning Commission and Kristen Underwood of South Mountain Research & Consulting. Analytical services were provided by the LaRosa Analytical Laboratory in Burlington, VT, through an analytical services partnership grant. The reader is referred to a series of water quality reports prepared by Dr. Bill Hoadley in 2009 for an analysis of historical water quality results in each of these watersheds. This summary report is intended to be a brief synopsis of the 2013 season, with reference to these more technical reports for historical context and trend analysis. Section 6.0 provides a one-page summary of sampling results for each of the ACRWC watersheds. These summaries are formatted to serve as a one-page handout for each watershed that can be distributed to the public in relevant towns.
2.0
Background
The ACRWC has been monitoring water quality (including sediment, phosphorus, nitrates, and E.coli ) in six watersheds in Addison County (Figure 1) for two decades, with the earliest monitoring efforts beginning in 1992: Lemon Fair River (2003 present) Lewis Creek (1992 present) Little Otter Creek (1997 present) Middlebury River (1993 present) New Haven River (1993 present) Otter Creek (1992 present)
During a hiatus from sampling in the 2009 season, the ACRWC conducted a programmatic review of their water quality monitoring goals and objectives, and met with various state and regional groups to identify opportunities for collaboration and data sharing. With input from Dr. Bill Hoadley (2009 Draft Water Quality Reports), historical sample results and trends were analyzed to refine the overall sampling design for each of these six watersheds, in light of updated goals and objectives. Since several years of baseline data now exist for the six ACRWC watersheds, the sampling schedule was revised, beginning with the 2010 season, to include longer-term trend monitoring at a reduced number of key sites in each watershed (sentinel sites) with a reduced number of water quality parameters. These sentinel sites are to be combined with a more focused monitoring effort in two of the six watersheds that will rotate for a period of two years on and four years off (Table 1). The focused evaluation will involve a greater number of sites (and testing parameters) than the sentinel sites, and will be conducted to meet specific data needs of relevance to the chosen watershed.
Table 1. Rotational Schedule for Focused Monitoring 2012 2013 Lewis Creek Lemon Fair 2014 - 2015 Middlebury River Otter Creek 2016 - 2017 Little Otter Creek New Haven River
Beginning with the 2012 sampling season, Lewis Creek and the Lemon Fair River were selected to be focus watersheds (Figure 1, watersheds in bold outline). Therefore, rotational sites were scheduled for sampling in addition to the sentinel sites in these two watersheds. Table 2a displays the schedule of sampling sites and parameters for the 2013 season; R denotes a rotational site, S for a sentinel site. A slightly different schedule of sampling parameters is indicated for Spring versus Summer months i.e., E. coli was added to the list for Summer events.
3.0
Methods
Water quality samples were collected by ACRWC volunteers in accordance with quality assurance procedures outlined in the EPA-approved Generic Quality Assurance Project Plan prepared by VTDEC. A Quality Assurance Summary report for the 2013 sampling data was submitted under separate cover. Samples were delivered to the LaRosa Analytical Laboratory housed in the Hills Building in the University of Vermont campus in Burlington, Vermont. During 2013, ACRWC volunteers collected grab samples at 31 sites in these six watersheds during two Spring events (April and May) and four Summer events (June, July, August and September). Sampling dates were pre-determined as the first Wednesday of each month (except July to avoid the 4th of July holiday), and were not designed to capture any specific flow condition: April 3 May 1 June 5 July 10 August 7 September 4
Table 2. 2013 Schedule of Sites / Parameters Spring and Summer

Project Name: Addison County River Watch Collaborative
Project Number: 137-01 Spring Schedule (Apr, May) Summer Schedule (Jun, Jul, Aug, Sep) PARAMETERS Site ID LCR3.7 LCR9.9 LCR14 LCR17.2 LCR18.6 LCR19.5 LCR27.8 LCT3D.5 HK-0.8 HLB-0.8 HGB-1.7 HLW-2.5 LCR26.5 PRG-0.3 LFR0 LFR1.2 LFR6.7 LFR12 LFR15.8 LFR23.9 LFB2.5 LFBS1-0.9 LOC4.3 MDC1.2 MIR1.5 MIR5.7 NHR2 NHR9 NHR11.5 OTR18 OTR7.3 Site Location Old Route 7 Bridge Upper Covered Bridge, Roscoe Rd. Tyler Bridge Starksboro Ballfields Lewis Creek Farm footbridge Parsonage Road bridge Hillsboro Road Silver Street culvert Above Freedom Access Road Below Hillsboro Rd & confluence of two tribs Near Parsonage Road Off of Hollow Rd Above Gorge Below falls off Spear St Ext Weybridge Road bridge Prunier Road bridge Route 125 bridge. Downstream of Route 74 bridge Shacksboro Road bridge Murray Road Bridge Sperry Road crossing, Beaver Branch Route 125 crossing, trib to Beaver Branch Route 7 Bridge Wing Rd./Middlebrook Rd. (South) Shard Villa Rd. Bridge Midd. Gorge @ Rte 125 Bridge Muddy Branch confluence (just below) South St. Bridge Bartlett's Falls Pool Twin Bridges Picnic Area Vergennes Falls/below outfall X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X TP X X X X X X X X DP TN Turbidity X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X TSS E.coli X ALK X TP X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X DP TN X Turbidity X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X X TSS
Sample Year: 2013

Type River Name S R S R R R R R O O O O O O R R S S R R R R S S S S S S S S S Lewis Creek Lewis Creek Lewis Creek Lewis Creek Lewis Creek Lewis Creek Lewis Creek Pond Brook Highknob Brook Hillsboro Brook Hogback Brook Hollow Brook Lewis Creek Pringle Brook Lemon Fair River Lemon Fair River Lemon Fair River Lemon Fair River Lemon Fair River Lemon Fair River Beaver Branch Trib to Beaver Branch Little Otter Creek Mud Creek Middlebury River Middlebury River New Haven River New Haven River New Haven River Otter Creek Otter Creek
Site Types: R = Rotational; S = Sentinel; O = Other (special project).

4.0
Precipitation Data
Precipitation data were compiled from existing weather stations in vicinity of the ACRWC watersheds (Table B-1). Calendar year 2013 was a wetter-than-normal year, as recorded at regional weather stations in South Burlington (Airport) and South Lincoln, Vermont, and a somewhat drier-than-normal year in Rutland. Heavy rainfall in the months of May, June, and July contributed to the greater-thannormal annual precipitation in Addison and Chittenden Counties; precipitation in other months was near, or even below, normal. Similar to the previous year, snowfall in the winter of 20122013 was less than normal as recorded at the South Lincoln and Rutland weather stations (Table B-2). Snowfall recorded at the Burlington airport was near normal. Based on USGS provisional real-time gaging records, ice-out in the lower Lewis Creek and New Haven River watersheds and at the Otter Creek Middlebury station occurred in late February. There were a couple of temporary ice-out events in mid- and late-January on the New Haven River and Otter Creek associated with mid-winter thaws. Ice-out on the lower Little Otter Creek occurred in mid-March. While the rainfall amounts over the year were greater than normal, there were no major storm events, with the exception of mid-May flooding and early July flooding that more significantly affected our neighbors to the north and east. Heavy rains beginning on May 23 were generated from training showers and thunderstorms and contributed to higher-than-normal rainfall amounts for May in our Addison County watersheds. Communities to the north and east in Chittenden and Lamoille Counties sustained damages from flash flooding (NCDC, 2014). May, June persistent rains from stalled weather patterns led to record rainfall amounts in May and June, and record-setting high-stages of Lake Champlain in early July1. July 3, July 4 Showers and thunderstorms developed in tropical moisture feeding along a stationary boundary. Soils were saturated from May and June rains, a condition which contributed to flooding. Flash flooding particularly impacted Granville and Waitsfield just over the mountains to the east of our ACRWC watersheds (NCDC, 2014). July 9, 10 - Southerly deep layer flow in the atmosphere provided a feed for abundant tropical moisture from the Gulf of Mexico to the northeast. Training showers and thunderstorms led to flash flooding in portions of the upper Otter Creek basin (NCDC, 2014).
http://vtdigger.org/2013/07/14/facing-climate-change-record-summer-rainfall-flooding-of-lake-champlaincaused-by-instability-of-jet-stream/
5.0
Hydrologic Data
Flow data were compiled from available USGS gaging stations in vicinity of the ACRWC watersheds. Four of the six watersheds sampled by the ACRWC have USGS gaging stations which record instantaneous flow at fifteen minute intervals. Gages on Lewis Creek, Little Otter Creek, and New Haven River are near the downstream end of the main stem. A nearby gage on Otter Creek (at Middlebury) is located midbasin, at 66.5 % of this 944 square mile basin. Flow records are available for the past 23 years at Little Otter Creek, New Haven River, and Lewis Creek gaging stations. Mean annual flows recorded at these stations over that time period are summarized in Table 5, along with data from the Otter Creek at Middlebury station. Data are summarized by water year which begins October 1st of the previous calendar year and extends through September 30th of the indicated year. Based on 23 years of record, mean annual flows in these ACRWC watersheds for water year 2013 were near normal.
Table 5. Mean Annual Flows, 1991 2013, ACRWC watersheds.

Little Otter Creek 73 57.1 2002 2011 27 145 67 70.1 New Haven River 116 115 1995 2011 129 378 220 253 Otter Creek at Middlebury 944 628 1995 2011 672 1912 1167 N/A
Watershed Drainage Area (sq mi) Gaged Area (sq mi) Min (1991-2013) Max (1991-2013) Mean (1991-2013) Water Year 2013
Lewis Creek 81 77.2 1995 2011 54 214 109 N/A
Source: USGS, 2014, on-line surface water data, <http://waterdata.usgs.gov/vt/nwis>. Note: As of report publication, 2013 data for Lewis Creek and Otter Creek stations were still provisional.
Figure 2 presents mean daily flows in the Little Otter Creek, New Haven River and Lewis Creek. Flows have been normalized to gaged drainage area. Generally, New Haven River tends to exhibit more flashy flows, and often has a somewhat higher flow per unit area than the Lewis Creek and Little Otter Creek. While the average yearly flows in the ACRWC watersheds were near normal in 2013, monthly flows were above normal from late May to early July. Peak flows for water year 2013 occurred in late May in the New Haven River, Lewis Creek, and Little Otter Creek, associated with the May 22 and 26 storms. Peak flow at the Otter Creek at Middlebury station occurred on July 11 in response to the July 3-4 storms. Still, peak flows for the year were less than the estimated 2-year storm (Q2) (Olson, 2002) at each gaging station.
Water Year 2013, Daily Mean Flow Normalized to Drainage Area

30
Note: Data for Lewis Creek and OtterMiddlebury are provisional as of 24 Februray 2014, and not estimated for ice-affected times during Jan & Feb 2013.
New Haven River Lewis Creek Little Otter Creek Otter Creek, MB
Normalized Flow (cfs / sq mi)
20
Snowpack somewhat less than normal.
7/10
approx. Ice Out
5/1 4/3
6/5
8/7
10
9/4
Measurement Date
Figure 2. ACRWC Scheduled Spring and Summer Sampling Dates in 2013 relative to Mean Daily Flows normalized to Gaged Drainage Area. Note: As of 24 February 2014, daily mean flow data posted on the USGS web page for Lewis Creek and Otter Creek @ Middlebury are provisional, and estimates have not been made for ice-affected portions of the flow record in January and February 2013.
Flow Duration Curve (Log Intervals) for Lewis Creek at North Ferrisburg, VT Water Years: 1991 - 2011 (USGS Stn# 04282780, 77.2 sq mi )
10000
Discharge (cfs) (Daily Mean Flow)
237 cfs
4/3/2013, 96 cfs 6/5/2013, 86 cfs 7/10/2013, 135 cfs 5/1/2013, 72 cfs

80 cfs
8/7/2013, 30 cfs 9/4/2013, 34 cfs
100
48 cfs
17 cfs
High Flows 1 0 10
Moist Conditions 20 30 40
Mid-range Flows 50 60
Dry Conditions 70 80 90
Low Flows
100
Percent of time that indicated discharge was equaled or exceeded (Flow Duration Interval, %)
Figure 3. ACRWC Scheduled Spring and Summer Sampling Dates in 2013 relative to Flow Duration Curve for the Lewis Creek watershed (after EPA, 2007)
Figure 3 presents a flow duration curve for the Lewis Creek watershed, annotated with the 2013 season sample dates. Spring sampling dates (April 3, May 1) coincided with moderate stages in area rivers associated with spring rains and snow melt. Summer sampling dates coincided with low- to base-flow conditions (August 7 and September 4) except for the July 10 event which followed the July 3-4 storms. and the June 5 event when flows were somewhat elevated due to high May and June rainfall. These storms were not as significant across Addison County as they were in Chittenden County to the north and Rutland County to the south. No spring runoff events or significant high-flow events were captured during the 2013 season.
6.0
Sample Results
Appendix C contains quality-assured sample results for the 2013 season for the ACRWC watersheds. Attachments 1 through 6 summarize these results on a single page for each watershed. These attachments have been designed to serve as a handout for use in future outreach events to watershed stakeholders and relevant town boards. As discussed in Section 2.0, the Lemon Fair River and Lewis Creek were chosen as focus watersheds for 2013. Therefore, sample results are presented for sentinel as well as rotational sites in these watersheds. In general, water quality results for 2013 were consistent with historic results and trends summarized in the 2009 Draft Water Quality Reports for each watershed (Hoadley, 2009). E.coli counts in each river exceeded the VT Water Quality Standard (VWQS) of 77 organisms/ 100 mL at one or more stations during one or more summer sampling dates. Generally, elevated E.coli detections were associated with developed land uses including nearby agriculture and livestock with direct access to the river. Wildlife sources of E.coli also exist in these rivers, including beaver, deer, and waterfowl. E.coli counts were below the federal health-based standard (235 organisms/100 mL) at popular swimming sites. E.coli counts tended to be higher during low-flow events. A similar occurrence of elevated E. coli counts was noted during low flows in 2012 and in historic drought years e.g., 1993 and 1995. A few elevated counts of E.coli were reported for the July 10 event on the receding limb from high flows generated by July 3-4 rains: at Tyler Bridge in the Lewis Creek (LCR14), along Beaver Brook tributary to the Lemon Fair, and on the lower Middlebury River (MIR1.5). Each of these stations is downstream of agricultural activity and downstream of documented beaver dams. The Vermont Agency of Natural Resources has published EPA-approved Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) plans for the Lewis Creek (and Pond Brook), Little Otter Creek, Middlebury River, and Otter Creek (VTDEC, 2011). These TMDL plans include recommendations for further assessment and mitigation of E.coli sources in these waters. Turbidity concentrations in the ACRWC watersheds vary, in part depending on geologic setting and flow stage. In the mountainous watersheds of Lewis Creek, Middlebury River, and New Haven River (shaded yellow in Table A-1), turbidity tends to exceed the standard of 10 NTUs during high flows. Since no major storm events were captured during the regularly-scheduled monthly sampling, turbidity did not exceed the standard in these mountainous watersheds, except slightly on one occasion in the lower Lewis Creek watershed at station LCR3.7 near the Route 7 bridge crossing. A concentration of 10.9 NTUs was reported for the July 10 sample from this station, in the days following significant rains on July 3-4.
In the valley watersheds (Little Otter Creek and Lemon Fair, shaded light blue in Table A-1), the turbidity standard (10 NTUs for the designated cold-water fishery of Little Otter and 25 NTUs for the warm-water fishery of Lemon Fair) tends to be exceeded on a more frequent basis, independent of flow condition. In 2013, turbidity at select stations in these valley watersheds exceeded the VWQS during each of the sampling events, except April 3 in the Little Otter Creek when soils were still somewhat frozen. As noted in Table A-1 the valley watersheds have a much higher percentage of silt / clay soils derived from glacial lake sediments, which contributes to the higher turbidity in these rivers. The Otter Creek represents a mixed water with contributions from both the mountainous and valley watersheds. During 2013, the turbidity standard (25 NTUs) at the sentinel stations on Otter Creek was not exceeded on the sample dates. Phosphorus is monitored in the Addison County watersheds with respect to two main objectives. First, total phosphorus concentrations are compared to proposed instream nutrient criteria (VTDEC WQD, 2009) to identify potential impacts to Aquatic Life Support and Aesthetics uses of these waters. Elevated phosphorus can lead to enhanced algae production and other changes in water quality that reduce the rivers capacity to support macroinvertebrates, fish and other aquatic organisms. These changes also have the potential to impact aesthetics and recreational uses of these waters. VTANR recommends that the mean of at least three low-flow phosphorus concentrations collected on nonconsecutive days is compared to the relevant proposed phosphorus criterion2. Only two of the Summer sampling events from 2013 could be classified as low flow: August 7 and September 4 (see Figure 3). Phosphorus concentrations in the mountainous watersheds (New Haven, Middlebury) did not exceed the proposed instream phosphorus criteria. The same was true for most of the Lewis Creek stations, except for the Pond Brook sentinel station (LCT3D.5) and a new station on the Pringle Brook in the lower watershed, where mean total phosphorus concentrations exceeded the proposed criterion of 44 ug/L for the warm-water medium gradient (WWMG) wadeable stream ecotype for a Class B water. Mean low-flow concentrations of phosphorus in the valley watersheds exceeded the proposed instream phosphorus criteria both sentinel stations on the Little Otter Creek and seven of the eight stations monitored on Lemon Fair. Mean phosphorus concentrations at the Otter Creek sentinel stations did not exceed the instream nutrient criterion. A second reason to monitor for phosphorus at the subwatershed level in Addison County watersheds is to evaluate relative contributions of phosphorus to Lake Champlain. Each of the watersheds monitored by the Collaborative contributes significant phosphorus to the lake, either directly (Lewis Creek, Little Otter Creek) or via Otter Creek (Middlebury River, New Haven River, Lemon Fair). The most substantial loading occurs during high flow events generally occurring in the spring or fall months. In 2010 and 2011, the Collaborative carried out a flow / loading study in the Little Otter Creek. A similar study was completed in 2012 on the Pond Brook tributary of Lewis Creek. Results are reported separately. Stream
2
Within this context, VTANR defines low flow as the median monthly flow for that month having the lowest median monthly (LMM) flow. This definition differs somewhat from the Low Flows presented in the context of a Flow Duration Curve (after EPA, 2007). For example, the LMM for Lewis Creek has been calculated by Blaine Hastings of VTANR as 21.2 cfs (September) - which is slightly above the range of flows presented as Low Flows in Figure 3.
flow and water quality monitoring data have been used to inform and develop priority implementation projects on a sub-watershed scale. Coarse estimates of phosphorus yields from each sub-watershed were used to communicate land use impacts on water quality and encourage landowner and municipal participation. In cooperation with local, state and federal partners, projects were prioritized and (with landowner willingness) will be developed to achieve reductions in phosphorus and sediment loading from these catchments. Identified projects have included wetland restoration & conservation, livestock exclusion, riparian buffer plantings, alternate tillage and crop rotation practices, gully stabilization, improved forest management techniques, and improved road maintenance practices. Nitrogen was monitored in three of the Addison County watersheds in 2013: Lemon Fair River, Otter Creek, and Lewis Creek. None of the detected concentrations exceeded the VWQS of 5 mg/L for nitrogen as nitrate. However, the mean concentration of total nitrogen for the two available low-flow summer sample dates exceeded the proposed instream nitrogen criteria (0.75 mg/L) at four of the eight Lemon Fair sites and for one out of the ten Lewis Creek watershed stations sampled for Nitrogen.
7.0
References
Olson, Scott A., 2002, Flow-Frequency Characteristics of Vermont Streams. USGS Water-Resources Investigations Report 02-4238. National Climatic Data Center, 2014, Event Narratives for Flood Events in Addison County, Vermont, accessed on 12 January 2014 at: http://www4.ncdc.noaa.gov/cgi-win/wwcgi.dll?wwEvent~storms NOAA National Weather Service Recent Weather Event Summaries, 2014, Heavy Rainfall and Associated Flooding Event on 23 May 2013 accessed on 12 January 2014 at: http://www.erh.noaa.gov/btv/events/2013May23/2013May23_Flooding.pdf NOAA Online Weather Data: Daily Almanac accessed in January 2014 at: http://www.weather.gov/climate/xmacis.php?wfo=btv USGS, 2014, on-line surface water data, <http://waterdata.usgs.gov/vt/nwis>. VTDEC, 2011, Vermont Statewide Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) for Bacteria Impaired Waters, prepared by FB Environmental Associates, Inc., Portland, ME. Including Appendices 2, 3, 4, 5 and 6. VTDEC Water Quality Division, 2009 (August 18), Proposed Nutrient Criteria for Vermonts Lakes and Wadeable Streams. http://www.anr.state.vt.us/dec/waterq/lakes/docs/lp_2009nutrientcriteria.pdf Vermont Natural Resources Board, 2008. Vermont Water Quality Standards. Effective January 1, 2008. Montpelier, VT. http://www.nrb.state.vt.us/wrp/rules.htm
Summary Report: 2013 Sampling Results Appendix C
Appendix A Physical Features of Watersheds Monitored by Addison County Riverwatch Collaborative
Table A-1 summarizes the physical characteristics of the ACRWC watersheds and nearby LaPlatte River. A majority of the drainage area for the New Haven River and Middlebury River is positioned in the mountainous terrain of the Northern Green Mountain physiographic province. Lewis Creek also has a significant percentage of its drainage area in this province. LaPlatte River, Little Otter Creek and Lemon Fair River are located further to the west in the broad, low-relief, Champlain Valley physiographic province. Thus, topographic relief and overall gradients of the New Haven River, Middlebury River and Lewis Creek are substantially higher than that of the Champlain Valley watersheds. The Green Mountain watersheds (New Haven River, Middlebury River, and Lewis Creek; shaded yellow in Table A-1) tend to exhibit flashier flows, than the Champlain Valley watersheds due, in part, to the steeper overall gradients. The lower-gradient watersheds of the Champlain Valley (shaded blue in Table A-1) tend to be characterized by higher percentages of hydric soils derived from lacustrine and marine lake sediments, and have higher percentages of wetlands. These conditions offer temporary surface water storage and lagged flows, resulting in broader, lower-magnitude storm peaks, longer times to peak, and gradual hydrograph recessions. In general, the Green Mountain watersheds tend to have higher percentages of forest cover, while the Champlain Valley watersheds have higher percentages of agricultural land use.
Table A-1. Physical Features of Watersheds.

Watershed
Geologic Province (1 ) NGM CV Soils (2) (% Lake Sediments) % Hydric Soils 15.2%
Physical Characteristics
% Wetlands (VSWI) 3.2% Topography Relief Gradient (ft) (ft / mile) 1,758 111 Major Land Cover/ Land Use Forest Agric Urban Stream Classification (Class B) (3) Cold Water Fish Cold Water Fish Cold Water Fish Warm Water Fish Cold Water Fish Warm Water Fish Warm Water
Middlebury River
63 sq mi
71%
29%
10%
81%
11%
3%
New Haven River

116 sq mi
63% 31%
37% 69%
14% 24%
9.8%
2.5%
2,720
106
76% 60%
15% 26%
4% 5%
Lewis Creek
81 sq mi 18.6% 6.5% 1,676 52
LaPlatte River
53 sq mi
5% ---
95% 100% 91%
45% 62% 63%
25.3% 30.3% 19.3%
6.1% 9.7% 7.3%
960 416 256
49 18 8
38% 35% 25%
39% 45% 63%
16% 4% 6%
Little Otter Creek

73 sq mi
Lemon Fair River

91 sq mi
Lower Otter Creek

498 sq mi (of 944 sq mi basin) Notes:
(1) (2) (3)
29%
69%
38%
20.8%
8.9%
NM
NM
67%
21%
6%
Fish
NGM = Northern Green Mountains; CV = Champlain Valley; geologic province after Stewart & MacClintock (1969) or biophysical province after the VT Biodiversity Project. Soils of glaciolacustrine parent material, Natural Resource Conservation Service County Soil Survey Data. As per VT Water Quality Standards, effective Jan 1, 2008.
Appendix B Precipitation and Flow Data
Table B-1. Monthly / Annual Precipitation at climate stations located in vicinity of Addison County.
Data Source Burlington, VT (Airport) 330 ft amsl 20 miles N 1 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 2 2 2 2 2 2 1 2 2 2 2 2 2 Time Period 1971-2000 1981-2010 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 1971-2000 1981-2010 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013 1971-2000 1981-2010 2009 2010 2011 2012 2013
Jan 2.22 2.05 1.76 2.41 1.44 1.96 1.11 2.92 2.81 3.05 2.88 1.26 2.19 1.79 2.70 2.44 2.29 2.22 2.93 1.69 1.85
Feb 1.67 1.76 1.81 2.13 3.02 0.89 1.32 2.10 2.27 2.91 3.69 2.04 0.83 1.44 1.97 2.15 1.98 2.83 3.76 0.69 0.78
Mar 2.32 2.21 1.90 2.85 3.39 0.98 2.05 3.14 3.12 2.14 4.65 4.04 1.90 2.78 2.59 2.77 2.04 4.69 3.61 1.12 1.51
Apr 2.88 2.82 1.86 3.08 7.88 2.84 2.05 4.20 3.71 2.55 4.17 1.23 3.64 2.40 2.80 2.88 1.96 3.04 5.69 3.32 2.58
May 3.32 3.45 5.25 1.52 8.67 4.41 8.74 4.31 4.24 8.71 2.21 3.95 6.29 6.33 3.52 3.71 4.43 2.87 4.40 5.26 5.60
Jun 3.43 3.69 5.25 5.87 3.52 3.22 9.86 4.58 4.75 5.52 7.50 1.22 3.12 9.90 3.85 4.00 3.86 3.00 4.38 3.66 5.93
Jul 3.97 4.15 4.62 2.25 3.68 3.78 4.49 4.24 4.83 9.07 7.18 2.06 2.88 8.02 4.58 4.77 9.30 5.35 4.88 3.62 5.59
Aug 4.01 3.91 2.32 3.51 6.11 2.92 3.07 5.22 5.11 3.03 5.61 10.71 4.77 5.54 4.18 4.10 7.71 4.14 11.24 3.42 3.30
Sep 3.83 3.64 3.67 4.17 6.06 5.36 4.74 4.44 4.13 2.25 3.36 1.66 4.94 4.47 3.91 3.78 2.27 1.95 4.88 4.58 3.25
Oct 3.12 3.60 2.98 6.24 3.49 5.04 2.59 4.39 5.02 4.52 11.56 1.09 7.02 2.86 3.21 3.83 4.76 9.76 3.48 4.57 1.36
Nov 3.06 3.12 2.98 3.10 1.43 1.24 2.43 3.98 3.99 4.76 2.13 2.19 1.38 4.15 3.08 3.25 3.64 2.28 1.29 0.71 2.58
Dec 2.22 2.37 3.02 3.60 2.23 3.30 2.54 3.13 3.41 3.80 3.08 2.83 3.92 3.75 2.73 2.96 3.00 3.66 2.80 4.08 2.50
Annual 36.05 36.77 37.42 40.73 50.92 35.94 44.99 46.65 47.39 52.31 58.02 34.28 42.88 53.43 39.12 40.64 47.24 45.79 53.34 36.72 36.83
South Lincoln, VT 1,370 ft amsl 13.6 miles SE
Rutland, VT 620 ft amsl 40 miles SSE
Total precipitation in inches, including liquid equivalent of snow, sleet. Values for 1971-2000 and 1981-2010 periods reflect averages for the time period. Values for individual years are totals. Data Sources:
1
National Climatic Data Center, 2002, Climatography of the United States No. 81 - 43 (Vermont), Monthly Station Normals of Temperature, Precipitation, and Heating and Cooling Degree Days: 1971-2000
2
NOAA Online Weather Data, http://www.weather.gov/climate/index.php?wfo=btv
Table B-2. Monthly / Seasonal Snowfall Totals at climate stations located in vicinity of Addison County.
Time Period So. Burlington, VT (Airport) 1971-2000 1981-2011 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012 2012-2013 1981-2000 1981-2011 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012 2012-2013 1971-2000 1981-2011 2009-2010 2010-2011 2011-2012 2012-2013
Jul 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
Aug 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
Sep 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
Oct 0.3 0.3 0.0 0.1 0.1 0.0 2.2 2.3 0.1 2.2 2.4 0.0 0.3 0.5 0.0 0.0 6.5 0.0
Nov 7.2 5.1 0.0 0.3 5.0 3.8 13.9 11.4 1.1 4.0 4.9 4.8 5.6 4.4 0.0 0.9 2.9 0.4
Dec 17.1 19.1 17.7 27.9 6.9 30.7 26.9 28.6 26.0 39.5 24.3 25.8 13.5 16.7 18.2 21.3 5.0 23.9
Jan 20.9 21.9 48.4 26.9 13.4 14.6 29.6 27.3 22.5 42.3 18.4 14.4 16.7 17.3 15.9 26.8 8.9 8.1
Feb 15.3 16.9 24.0 43.1 6.4 16.6 22.8 24.0 33.0 40.2 12.0 11.9 13.9 14.7 19.9 37.2 2.7 8.5
Mar 15.4 15.6 0.9 29.3 5.9 16.2 24.5 21.5 3.2 26.2 11.6 21.3 12.4 12.6 0.1 14.6 4.2 10.9
Apr 5.8 4.6 5.5 0.8 0.0 1.0 10.5 9.4 10.0 1.8 0.0 1.3 3.6 3.3 2.1 0.9 0.0 0.2
May 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.7 0.6 1.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
Jun 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0 0.0
Season 81.9 83.6 96.5 128.4 37.7 82.9 131.1 125.0 96.9 156.2 73.6 79.5 66.0 69.3 56.2 101.7 30.2 52.0
South Lincoln, VT
Rutland, VT
Total snowfall in inches. Values for 1971-2000 and 1981-2011 periods reflect averages for the time period. Values for seasons are totals. Source: http://www.weather.gov/climate/xmacis.php?wfo=btv data available as of Jan 2014
Table B-3. Flows recorded in Addison County rivers, 2013
River USGS Gage # Drainage Area (sq mi) Sample Dates (Daily Mean Flows) (cfs)
Little Otter Ck #04282650 57.1
Lewis Creek New Haven River #04282780 #04282525 77.4 115
Otter Ck MB #04282500 630
4/3/2013 5/1/2013 6/5/2013 7/10/2013 8/7/2013 9/4/2013
50 24 44 78 9.0 11
1,120 1,640 1,990 2,440 2,790 3,130 3,950
96 72 86 135 30 34
2,280 2,990 3,420 3,920 4,270 4,590 5,290
170 185 197 371 97 117

4,410 6,980 8,870 11,500 13,500 15,700 21,200
1,310 1,660 1,960 3,130 627 751

4,270 5,840 6,970 8,480 9,680 10,900 14,200
Peak Flows (Olson, 2002; Table 2)
Q2 Q5 Q10 Q25 Q50 Q100 Q500
Appendix C Water Quality Data Tables by Watershed
Abbreviations: TN = Total Nitrogen TP = Total Phosphorus DP = Dissolved Phosphorus TSS = Total Suspended Sediments mpn/100 mL = organisms per 100 milliliters mg/L = milligrams per liter ug/ L = micrograms per liter NTU = Nephelometric Turbidity Units -- = No Data NS = Not Sampled NA = Not Analyzed (e.g., insufficient sample volume; vial broken in transit) NM = Not Measured J = estimated value; constituent was present in an associated field blank at our very slightly above the method detection limit Note: QA/QC issues further detailed in separate QA Summary Report
Lemon Fair River

Location LFR0 LFR1.2 LFR6.7 LFR12 LFR15.8 LFR23.9 LFB2.5 LFBS1-0.9 LFR0 LFR1.2 LFR6.7 LFR12 LFR15.8 LFR23.9 LFB2.5 LFBS1-0.9 LFR0 LFR1.2 LFR6.7 LFR12 LFR15.8 LFR23.9 LFB2.5 LFBS1-0.9 Date 4/3/2013 4/3/2013 4/3/2013 4/3/2013 4/3/2013 4/3/2013 4/3/2013 4/3/2013 5/1/2013 5/1/2013 5/1/2013 5/1/2013 5/1/2013 5/1/2013 5/1/2013 5/1/2013 6/5/2013 6/5/2013 6/5/2013 6/5/2013 6/5/2013 6/5/2013 6/5/2013 6/5/2013 138 107 142 128 112 113 345 119 E. Coli. TN TP TDP (mpn/100ml) (mg-N/l) (ug P/L) (ug P/L) 0.45 0.46 0.52 0.47 0.47 0.34 0.3 0.37 0.54 0.45 0.55 0.48 0.46 0.21 0.2 0.21 1.1 1.02 0.94 0.73 0.81 0.42 0.43 0.33 54.3 53.9 65.4 48.1 50.1 42.7 23.8 14.5 94.9 102 97.7 86.9 57.3 27.1 28.8 19.8 189 179 168 180 79.4 42 54 34.4 20.7 20.1 22.1 19 18.2 13.6 12.2 9.89 26.4 29.1 25.1 22.7 17.6 13.6 13 14.2 115 112 51.1 52.6 40.6 23.1 21.8 24.9 TSS (mg/L) 15.3 15.7 19.5 7.9 10.6 6.6 5.3 1.1 49 56.2 52.6 41.6 18.2 10.6 11.8 2.53 25.4 26 68.4 105 15.2 9.71 17 1.59 J J J J J J J J Turbidity (NTU) 25.3 26.2 33.5 21.8 24.6 14.7 8.36 2.19 61.5 72.3 52.4 54.5 30.7 9.73 6.41 2.05 43.8 45.4 96.4 136 37.2 11.7 20.1 2.53 J J J J J J J J
Shaded cells represent values that exceed the relevant VT Water Quality Standard: E.coli = 77 MPN/100 mL; Turbidity (warm water Class B) = 25 NTUs
Lemon Fair River (continued)

E. Coli. TN TP TDP (mpn/100ml) (mg-N/l) (ug P/L) (ug P/L) TSS (mg/L) Turbidity (NTU)
Location
Date
LFR0 LFR1.2 LFR6.7 LFR12 LFR15.8 LFR23.9 LFB2.5 LFBS1-0.9 LFR0 LFR1.2 LFR6.7 LFR12 LFR15.8 LFR23.9 LFB2.5 LFBS1-0.9 LFR0 LFR1.2 LFR6.7 LFR12 LFR15.8 LFR23.9 LFB2.5 LFBS1-0.9
7/10/2013 7/10/2013 7/10/2013 7/10/2013 7/10/2013 7/10/2013 7/10/2013 7/10/2013 8/7/2013 8/7/2013 8/7/2013 8/7/2013 8/7/2013 8/7/2013 8/7/2013 8/7/2013 9/4/2013 9/4/2013 9/4/2013 9/4/2013 9/4/2013 9/4/2013 9/4/2013 9/4/2013
21 15 96 365 86 152 649 517 261 61 548 38 37 20 238 61 131 91 770 111 102 72 214 1553
0.95 0.97 1.19 0.93 0.89 0.53 0.5 0.4 1.13 1.15 1.01 0.71 0.71 0.39 0.41 0.56 0.58 0.96 0.71 0.62 0.69 0.55 0.39 0.98
317 351 460 280 244 73.4 81 73.6 218 224 222 164 135 23.2 56.8 77.6 66.5 272 138 132 114 38.8 74 107
264 264 212 184 181 60.3 35.6 52.4 74 68.3 60.9 79 104 14 20.7 38.7 23.3 42.8 49.5 46.5 74.4 18.9 26.8 66.7
6.5 6 22.5 55.1 24.8 4.34 28.4 4.86 88.7 112 128 65.7 10.2 5.23 35.6 24.6 23.8 106 58.8 56.5 11.6 10.2 50.8 16.8
5.54 6.12 25.9 92.1 56.9 7.39 24.5 4.98 92.1 131 136 83.6 26.8 6.77 29 23.7 24.8 121 92.8 80.3 24.6 11.2 37.4 16.6
Shaded cells represent values that exceed the relevant VT Water Quality Standard: E.coli = 77 MPN/100 mL; Turbidity (warm water Class B) = 25 NTUs
Lewis Creek
Location LCR3.7 LCR9.9 LCR14 LCR17.2 LCR18.6 LCR19.5 LCR27.8 LCT3D.5 LCR3.7 LCR9.9 LCR14 LCR17.2 LCR18.6 LCR19.5 LCR27.8 LCT3D.5 LCR3.7 LCR9.9 LCR14 LCR17.2 LCR18.6 LCR19.5 LCR27.8 LCT3D.5 HK-0.8 HLB-0.8 HGB-1.7 HLW-2.5 LCR26.5 PRG-0.3
Date 4/3/2013 4/3/2013 4/3/2013 4/3/2013 4/3/2013 4/3/2013 4/3/2013 4/3/2013 5/1/2013 5/1/2013 5/1/2013 5/1/2013 5/1/2013 5/1/2013 5/1/2013 5/1/2013 6/5/2013 6/5/2013 6/5/2013 6/5/2013 6/5/2013 6/5/2013 6/5/2013 6/5/2013 6/5/2013 6/5/2013 6/5/2013 6/5/2013 6/5/2013 6/5/2013
Alkalinity E. Coli. TN TP TDP (mg (mpn/100 (mg-N/l) (ug P/L) (ug P/L) CaCO3/L) ml) 20.5 23.7 15.4 8.68 7.42 7.45 <5 28.3 23.7 26.7 12.3 8.34 7.07 7.27 <5 58.2 45 130 0.45 0.61 41.8 52.3 38.7 10.9 9.3 10.2 6.81 109 8.93 8.51 9.44 9.54 6.39 38.8
TSS (mg/L)
Turbidity (NTU) 5.1 5.72 2.24 0.47 0.7 0.46 0.41 3.65 3.12 3.03 0.97 0.4 0.37 0.53 0.52 1.92 5.59 4.94 1.61 0.54 0.31 0.33 0.26 5.51 0.52 1.37 0.35 0.56 0.3 2.19
102
0.54 0.17 0.55 0.33 0.16 0.22 0.25 0.18 0.54
Shaded cells represent values that exceed the relevant VT Water Quality Standard: E.coli = 77 MPN/100 mL; Turbidity (cold water Class B) = 10 NTUs
Lewis Creek (continued)

Location Date Alkalinity E. Coli. TN TP TDP (mg (mpn/100 (mg-N/l) (ug P/L) (ug P/L) CaCO3/L) ml) TSS (mg/L) Turbidity (NTU)
LCR3.7 LCR9.9 LCR14 LCR17.2 LCR18.6 LCR19.5 LCR27.8 LCT3D.5 HK-0.8 HLB-0.8 HGB-1.7 HLW-2.5 LCR26.5 PRG-0.3 LCR3.7 LCR9.9 LCR14 LCR17.2 LCR18.6 LCR19.5 LCR27.8 LCT3D.5 HK-0.8 HLB-0.8 HGB-1.7 HLW-2.5 LCR26.5 PRG-0.3 LCR3.7 LCR9.9 LCR14 LCR17.2 LCR18.6 LCR19.5 LCR27.8 LCT3D.5 HK-0.8 HLB-0.8 HGB-1.7 HLW-2.5 LCR26.5 PRG-0.3
7/10/2013 7/10/2013 7/10/2013 7/10/2013 7/10/2013 7/10/2013 7/10/2013 7/10/2013 7/10/2013 7/10/2013 7/10/2013 7/10/2013 7/10/2013 7/10/2013 8/7/2013 8/7/2013 8/7/2013 8/7/2013 8/7/2013 8/7/2013 8/7/2013 8/7/2013 8/7/2013 8/7/2013 8/7/2013 8/7/2013 8/7/2013 8/7/2013 9/4/2013 9/4/2013 9/4/2013 9/4/2013 9/4/2013 9/4/2013 9/4/2013 9/4/2013 9/4/2013 9/4/2013 9/4/2013 9/4/2013 9/4/2013 9/4/2013 113 85
101 1986
0.57 0.59
20
0.5 0.13 0.72 0.3 0.12 0.22 0.18 0.13 0.53 0.42 0.79
85.5 95.9 32.8 12.3 11 NA 8.14 252 16.4 10 12.5 12.6 8.01 61.9 27.7 35 15.8 7.7 7.55 10.5 6.81 74.5 5.91 9.66 14 8.27 7.35 72.6 34.5 42.5 25.9 10.8 9.83 8.63 8.24 82.9 7.38 9.34 17.3 8.01 8.32 61.2
10.9 6.11 2.06 0.28 0.25 0.58 0.38 4.75 0.64 0.52 0.5 1.2 < 0.2 1.03 8.55 8.41 1.12 0.21 < 0.2 < 0.2 < 0.2 1.89 < 0.2 0.27 0.71 0.82 0.46 4.83 8.61 4.84 5.15 0.56 0.29 0.39 0.44 3.81 0.52 0.37 0.47 1.33 0.46 3.02
54 365
101
0.99 0.27 0.58 0.97 0.22 0.26 0.31 0.2 0.78 0.57 0.68
365 687
80 33 132 40 23 45.5 67 32 233
115
0.88 0.26 0.54 0.68 0.2 0.41 0.28 0.21 0.71
Little Otter Creek
Location LOC4.3 MDC1.2 LOC4.3 MDC1.2 LOC4.3 MDC1.2 LOC4.3 MDC1.2 LOC4.3 MDC1.2 LOC4.3 MDC1.2
Date 4/3/2013 4/3/2013 5/1/2013 5/1/2013 6/5/2013 6/5/2013 7/10/2013 7/10/2013 8/7/2013 8/7/2013 9/4/2013 9/4/2013
E. Coli TN TP TDP (mpn/100ml) (mg-N/l) (ug P/L) (ug P/L) 32.7 36.6 49.8 48 147 63 152 119 18 108 108 184 165 164 296 769 71.8 183 116 166 18.3 27.9 24.4 36.9 86.1 150 158 528 49.9 153 59.7 140
TSS (mg/L) 6.8 1.5 8.74 2.68 42 3.81 40.8 15.7 10 5.46 29.6 4.8
Turbidity (NTU) 7.98 3.59 11.5 58.2 55.4 5.87 42.2 15.7 12.4 6.43 48.6 6.15
Middlebury River
Location MIR1.5 MIR5.7 MIR1.5 MIR5.7 MIR1.5 MIR5.7 MIR1.5 MIR5.7 MIR1.5 MIR5.7 MIR1.5 MIR5.7
Date 4/3/2013 4/3/2013 5/1/2013 5/1/2013 6/5/2013 6/5/2013 7/10/2013 7/10/2013 8/7/2013 8/7/2013 9/4/2013 9/4/2013
E. Coli. (mpn/100ml)
TN TP TDP (mg-N/l) (ug P/L) (ug P/L) 16.7 6.97 13.2 6.8
TSS (mg/L)
Turbidity (NTU) 3.53 1.41 2.91 0.21 4.39 0.25 7.83 0.69 3.26 0.25 3.41 0.35
84 11 345 64 76 9 101 28
22.5 8.37 50.1 14.4 21.3 7.47 30.5 10.3
New Haven River

E. Coli. (mpn/100ml) TN TP TDP (mg-N/l) (ug P/L) (ug P/L) 25.7 7.06 5.45 9.41 59 29 6 88 32 33 276 17 30 166 44 28 13.2 7.77 TSS (mg/L) Turbidity (NTU) 6.62 0.86 0.57 1.05 1.54 0.52
Location NHR2 NHR9 NHR2 NHR9 NHR2 NHR9 NHR11.5 NHR2 NHR9 NHR11.5 NHR2 NHR9 NHR11.5 NHR2 NHR9 NHR11.5
Date 4/3/2013 4/3/2013 5/1/2013 5/1/2013 6/5/2013 6/5/2013 6/5/2013 7/10/2013 7/10/2013 7/10/2013 8/7/2013 8/7/2013 8/7/2013 9/4/2013 9/4/2013 9/4/2013
23.4 10.3
2.35 0.57
15.8 6.98
2.24 0.34
26.2 7.5
0.87 NS
Otter Creek (Lower)
Location OTR18 OTR7.3 OTR18 OTR7.3 OTR18 OTR7.3 OTR18 OTR7.3 OTR18 OTR7.3 OTR18 OTR7.3
Date 4/3/2013 4/3/2013 5/1/2013 5/1/2013 6/5/2013 6/5/2013 7/10/2013 7/10/2013 8/7/2013 8/7/2013 9/4/2013 9/4/2013
E. Coli. (mpn/100ml)
TN TP TDP (mg-N/l) (ug P/L) (ug P/L) 0.52 0.5 0.36 0.36 17.9 22 24.8 30.9 47.5 47 96.1 133 25.6 33.5 29.4 35.7
TSS (mg/L)
Turbidity (NTU) 4.73 5.11 1.53 3.77 7.66 8.58 4.54 16.7 2.37 6.11 4.33 7.65
84 89 102 75 16 50 135 125
0.5 0.52 0.46 0.55 0.51 0.6 0.48 0.61
Shaded cells represent values that exceed the relevant VT Water Quality Standard: E.coli = 77 MPN/100 mL; Turbidity (warm water Class B) = 25 NTUs.
Attachments
1 2 3 4 5 6
Lemon Fair River 2013 Water Quality Summary Lewis Creek 2013 Water Quality Summary Little Otter Creek 2013 Water Quality Summary Middlebury River 2013 Water Quality Summary New Haven River 2013 Water Quality Summary Otter Creek (Lower) 2013 Water Quality Summary
2012 2013 Lemon Fair River - 2013 Water Quality Summary

Addison County Riverwatch Collaborative
Focus Watershed
The Addison County Riverwatch Collaborative has been monitoring water quality in the Lemon Fair River since 2003. For the 2012 and 2013 seasons, the Lemon Fair River has been the subject of a more intensive monitoring focus, where rotational as well as sentinel stations were monitored and additional parameters were tested. Six sites are located on the main stem, and two stations are located on the Beaver Branch tributary in the lower watershed (see table at right).
Site LFR0 LFR1.2 LFR6.7 LFR12 LFR15.8 LFR23.9 LFB2.5
Location Weybridge Road bridge Prunier Road bridge Route 125 bridge. Downstream of Route 74 bridge Shacksboro Road bridge Murray Road Bridge Sperry Road crossing, Beaver Branch
Town Weybridge Weybridge Cornwall Shoreham Shoreham Orwell Cornwall Cornwall
LFBS1-0.9 Route 125 crossing, trib to Beaver Branch
During 2013, sampling occurred on two spring dates (April 3 and May 1) and four summer dates (June 5, July 10, August 7, and September 4). The spring and early summer dates represented moderate flow conditions on the river, based on streamflow gages in area rivers. August and September sample dates captured baseflow conditions, while the July 10 event captured moderate to high flows following a storm event on July 3-4 and higher-than-normal May and June rainfall. On an average annual basis, flows in 2013 were near normal in the Addison County watersheds monitored by the Collaborative. Samples from the Lemon Fair watershed were tested for phosphorus (total and dissolved), total nitrogen, total suspended solids, and turbidity; E.coli was tested only on the summer dates. As detailed in the following sections, results suggest the need to focus on improved land management practices in the middle stretch of this river between stations LFR15.8 and LFR6.7 (Bridport, Shoreham). E.coli counts at most sites in the Lemon Fair watershed often exceeded the state standard of 77 organisms/ 100 mL on the four summer sampling dates. Detected E.coli counts were relatively consistent with historic monitoring results. Figure 1 shows results for the stations located on the Lemon Fair main stem from upstream (right) to downstream (left). During the low-flow conditions on August LFR Main Stem - E coli - 2013 and September sample dates, a possible local contribution of E.coli is evidenced by the jump in readings between stations LFR12 and LFR6.7. This pattern was also evident during low-flow sampling events from 2012.
10000
Sampling Dates
6/5/2013
E. coli (MPN per 100 mL)
1000
7/10/2013
8/7/2013
9/4/2013
100
10
VT WQ Standard = 77 MPN / 100 mL
1 LFR0 LFR1.2 LFR6.7 LFR12 LFR15.8 LFR23.9
Figure 1. 2013 E. Coli results for stations along the Lemon Fair River main stem.
The drop in E.coli counts between station LFR6.7 and LFR1.2 may reflect decay of E.coli concentrations with downstream distance or dilutionary effects of groundwater and/or tributary inputs. Beaver Brook enters the Lemon Fair River between these two stations. Two stations are monitored on this tributary; in 2013, E coli counts ranged from 214 to 649 MPNs/100 mL in the downstream station (LFB2.5) and from 61 to 1,553 MPNs/100 mL at the upstream station (LFBS1.09). E.coli results from both 2012 (a drier-than-normal year) and 2013 (a near normal year) are summarized in Figure 2 (total number of samples at each station = 8). E.coli counts at stations LFR15.8, LFR12, and LFR6.7 along the main stem in Bridport and Shoreham are chronically above the state water quality standard of 77 MPN/100mL, consistent with historic sampling results.
Figure 2. 2012 and 2013 E. Coli results for focus stations in the Lemon Fair watershed.
Turbidity levels at the sampled stations in Lemon Fair watershed ranged from 2.5 to 136 NTUs in 2013. Concentrations exceeded the Vermont state standard of 25 NTUs (for Class B warm-water fisheries) at a majority of stations on nearly all sample dates except the upstream station LFR23.9 (Murray Road crossing) and the two stations on Beaver Brook. Figure 3 shows results for the stations located on the Lemon Fair main stem from upstream (right) to downstream (left). An increase in Turbidity is evident between LFR15.8 and LFR12 on all of the six sample dates, consistent with historic results. The decline in Turbidity levels at station LFR1.2 and LFR0 on a few sample dates (e.g., July 10, September 4) may reflect dilutionary effects of groundwater recharge zones or tributary inputs. Turbidity results from both 2012 (a drier-than-normal year) and 2013 (a near normal year) are summarized in Figure 4 (total number of samples at each station = 12). Turbidity levels at stations LFR12, LFR6.7, and LFR1.2 along the main stem in Shoreham, Cornwall, and Weybridge are chronically above the state water quality standard of 25 NTUs, consistent with historic sampling results.
Figure 3. 2013 Turbidity results for stations along the Lemon Fair River main stem.
Figure 4. 2012 and 2013 Turbidity results for focus stations in the Lemon Fair watershed.
Total Suspended Sediments ranged from 1.1 to 128 mg/L in 2013 at the eight focus stations. TSS can be related to Turbidity by a linear regression of log-transformed data (Figure 5).
Figure 5. Realtionship of TSS to Turbidity for 2012 and 2013 results at eight focus stations in the Lemon Fair watershed.
Phosphorus was detected at moderate levels during the six spring and summer sampling dates of 2013. Concentrations ranged from 14.5 to 460 ug/L, with an average of 120 ug/L. With the exception of upstream station LFR23.9 (Murray Road Bridge), the mean of the two available, low-flow, summer sample results at each station (including the two Beaver Branch sites) exceeded the recently proposed instream phosphorus criterion of 44 ug/L for warm-water medium gradient (WWMG) wadeable stream ecotype in Class B waters. It is possible that Lemon Fair River would instead be classified as a slowwinder stream ecotype (not yet determined for the reaches sampled); there is no proposed instream phosphorus criterion to date for the slow-winder ecotype. Figure 6 shows results for the stations located on the Lemon Fair main stem from upstream (right) to downstream (left). An increasing trend in phosphorus with downstream distance is suggested by the results. Of particular note is the increase in phosphorus concentration between stations LFR23.9 and LFR12 consistent with the previously indicated rise in turbidity for the same stations. Dissolved phosphorus results for these dates (not shown) indicate that this rise is predominantly associated with the particulate fraction of total phosphorus. Total Phosphorus results from both 2012 (a drier-than-normal year) and 2013 (a near normal year) are summarized in Figure 7 (total number of samples at each station = 12). Phosphorus levels at stations LFR12, LFR6.7, and LFR1.2 along the main stem in Shoreham, Cornwall, and Weybridge are particularly elevated, consistent with the pattern for turbidity.
Figure 6. 2013 Total Phosphorus results for stations along the Lemon Fair River main stem.
Figure 7. 2012 and 2013 Total Phosphorus results for focus stations in the Lemon Fair watershed.
Nitrogen concentrations were generally low (ranging from 0.2 to 1.2 mg/L) and well below the state standard for nitrogen as nitrate (5 mg/L). The mean of the four, low-flow, summer sample results at sites LFR6.7, LFR1.2, LFR0 and Beaver Brook station LFBS1-0.9 exceeded the recently proposed instream nitrogen criteria of 0.75 mg/L for WWMG wadeable stream ecotype in Class B waters.
Focus Study Findings:
For the 2012 and 2013 seasons, the Lemon Fair River was the subject of a more intensive monitoring focus, including additional sampling stations and testing parameters. At stations LFR15.8, LFR12, and LFR6.7 along the main stem in Bridport and Shoreham and at the upper Beaver Brook station LFBS1.09, E.coli counts are chronically above the state water quality standard of 77 MPN/100mL, and often above the federal health-based standard of 235 MPN/100 mL, consistent with historic sampling results. At stations LFR12, LFR6.7, and LFR1.2 along the main stem in Shoreham, Cornwall, and Weybridge: o turbidity levels are chronically above the state water quality standard of 25 NTUs; and o phosphorus levels are particularly elevated, consistent with the pattern for turbidity. Sampling results suggest the need to focus on improved land management practices in the middle stretch of the Lemon Fair River between stations LFR15.8 and LFR6.7 (Bridport, Shoreham).
2014: In years 2014 through 2017, the Lemon Fair watershed will rotate back to a reduced frequency of monitoring at two sentinel stations, LFR6.7 and LFR12. The Addison County Riverwatch Collaborative will sample for total and dissolved phosphorus, total nitrogen, total dissolved solids, turbidity, and E.coli. For more information, contact the Lemon Fair interim sampling coordinator: Barb Otsuka, 388-6829, botsuka@sover.net Addison County Riverwatch Collaborative coordinator: Matt Witten, 434-3236, mwitten@gmavt.net or visit our web page at: www.acrpc.org/acrwc
2012 2013
Focus Watershed
Lewis Creek - 2013 Water Quality Summary
The Addison County Riverwatch Collaborative has been monitoring water quality in the Lewis Creek since 1992. For the 2012 and 2013 seasons, Lewis Creek was the subject of a more intensive monitoring focus, where rotational as well as sentinel stations were monitored and additional parameters were tested. Two sentinel sites (LCR3.7 and LCR14) and six rotational sites located on the main stem and Pond Brook tributary were sampled (see table at right).
Site LCR3.7 LCR9.9 LCR14 LCR17.2 LCR18.6 LCR19.5 LCR27.8 LCT3D.5 LCT3-3.9
Location Old Route 7 Bridge Upper Covered Bridge, Roscoe Rd. Tyler Bridge Starksboro Ballfields Lewis Creek Farm footbridge Parsonage Road bridge Hillsboro Road Silver Street culvert Mountain Road culvert
Town Ferrisburgh Charlotte Monkton Starksboro Starksboro Starksboro Starksboro Monkton Monkton
In 2013, six new stations were established in the headwaters of the Lewis Creek watershed to evaluate LCT3-8.7 Church Road culvert Monkton baseline water quality conditions in the upper main stem and the Hillsboro Brook, High Knob Brook, LCT3-10.5 Mountain Road culvert Monkton Hogback Brook, Hollow Brook and Pringle Brook tributaries in support of biomonitoring studies to be carried out by the VT Agency of Natural Resources (VTANR). Results of this special study will be separately reported by VTANR. During 2013, sampling occurred on two spring dates (April 3 and May 1) and four summer dates (June 5, July 10, August 7, and September 4). The spring and early summer dates represented moderate flow conditions on the river, based on records from the USGS streamflow gage located at the Route 7 crossing. August and September sample dates captured baseflow conditions, while the July 10 event captured moderate to high flows following a storm event on July 3-4 and higher-than-normal May and June rainfall. On an average annual basis, flows in 2013 were near normal in the Addison County watersheds monitored by the Collaborative. Samples from the Lewis Creek watershed were tested for E.coli, total phosphorus, total nitrogen, and turbidity; E.coli and Total Nitrogen were tested only on the summer dates. As part of the special study of biocriteria, alkalinity was tested at select sites during the September event only. E.coli counts in the Lewis Creek at three select sites exceeded the state standard of 77 organisms/100 mL on a majority of the sample dates. E.coli results exceeded the federal health standard of 235 MPN/100 mL at LCR3.7 during the September event, and at LCR14 on three out of the four summer sampling events. Detected E.coli counts at these sites in the 2013 season were largely consistent with historic results.
Turbidity levels in the Lewis Creek at the sampled stations ranged from <0.2 to 10.9 NTUs, with a mean level of 2.6 NTUs for the six sample dates. Turbidity levels exceeded the Vermont state standard of 10 NTUs (for Class B cold-water fisheries) at station LCR3.7 on July 10; flows were moderate due rains on July 3-4. The graph below shows turbidity levels from upstream (right) to downstream (left) for the stations along the main stem of the Lewis Creek. Based on past years sampling results, turbidity can increase above the standard at times of increased flow during a summer thunderstorm, or during spring runoff conditions especially in the lower reaches of the river. An increasing trend in turbidity with distance downstream is generally observed during all flow conditions.
Phosphorus was detected at low to moderate concentrations during the six Spring and Summer sampling dates, ranging from 6.8 to 252 ug/L, with an average of 32 ug/L. The mean concentration of Total Phosphorus for the two available low-flow summer sample dates at the Pond Brook site LCT3D.5 exceeded the proposed criteria of 44 ug/L for the warm-water medium gradient (WWMG) wadeable stream ecotype in Class B waters. The graph below shows total phosphorus levels from upstream (right) to downstream (left) for the stations along the main stem of the Lewis Creek. An increasing trend in phosphorus concentration is evident with distance downstream.
Nitrogen levels were detected at very low concentrations during the six spring and summer sampling dates, well below the state standard for nitrogen as nitrate (5 mg/L). Concentrations ranged from 0.13 to 0.99 mg/L, with an average of 0.5 mg/L. The mean value of the two available low-flow summer sample results at site LCR19.5 was above the recently proposed instream nitrogen criteria of 0.75 mg/L for WWMG wadeable stream ecotype in Class B waters. 2014: In years 2014 through 2017, the Lewis Creek watershed will rotate back to a reduced frequency of monitoring at two sentinel stations, LCR3.7 and LCR14. The Addison County Riverwatch Collaborative will sample for total phosphorus, turbidity, and E.coli. For more information, contact the Lewis Creek sampling coordinator: Louis DuPont, 453-5538, ldupont@gmavt.net Addison County Riverwatch Collaborative coordinator: Matt Witten, 434-3236, mwitten@gmavt.net or visit our web page at: www.acrpc.org/acrwc
Little Otter Creek - 2013 Water Quality Summary

Site LOC4.3 MDC1.2 Location Route 7 Bridge Wing Rd./Middlebrook Rd. (South) Town Ferrisburgh Ferrisburgh
The Addison County Riverwatch Collaborative has been monitoring water quality in the Little Otter Creek since 1997. For years 2012 through 2015, the number of sampling locations in this watershed has been reduced to two sentinel stations, LOC4.3 and MDC1.2. During 2013, sampling occurred on two spring dates (April 3 and May 1) and four summer dates (June 5, July 10, August 7, and September 4). The spring and early summer dates represented moderate flow conditions on the river, based on records from the USGS streamflow gage located at the Route 7 crossing. August and September sample dates captured baseflow conditions, while the July 10 event captured moderate to high flows following a storm event on July 3-4 and higher-than-normal May and June rainfall. On an average annual basis, flows in 2013 were near normal in the Addison County watersheds monitored by the Collaborative. Samples were tested for phosphorus (total and dissolved), total suspended solids, and turbidity; E.coli was tested only on the summer dates. E.coli counts at the Little Otter Creek watershed stations were above the state water-quality standard of 77 MPN/100 mL on three of the four summer sample dates, but below the federal health-based standard of 235 MPN/100 mL. E.coli concentrations detected at these stations during 2013 are relatively consistent with historic monitoring results. Mud Creek station (MDC1.2) has traditionally had elevated E.coli as it is located directly downstream of a dairy pasture where livestock have direct access to the stream. Low flow rates probably contributed to the elevated E.coli counts in the September 4 sample.
Turbidity levels in the Little Otter Creek at the two sentinel stations were moderate and often exceeded the Vermont standard of 10 NTUs (for Class B cold-water fisheries). Values ranged from 3.6 to 58 NTUs, with a mean level of 22.8 NTUs for the six sample dates. Highest turbidity concentrations in 2013 at these stations were detected during May or June events when streamflows were somewhat elevated as a result of record rainfall amounts. Turbidity results for 2013 at these two stations were largely
consistent with historic trends. Based on past years sampling results, turbidity can increase well above the state standard at times of high flow during a Summer thunderstorm, or during Spring runoff conditions. Phosphorus levels were detected at low to moderate concentrations during the six spring and summer sampling dates. Concentrations ranged from 32.7 to 769 ug/L, with an average of 175 ug/L. Maximum concentrations for the season were detected during moderate flow conditions on July 10 following the storm event on July 3-4 and higher-than-normal May and June rainfall. Total Phosphorus concentrations detected in 2013 were generally consistent with historic data. Vermont recently proposed in-stream phosphorus criteria for aquatic life and aesthetics uses in wadeable streams (VTDEC, 2009). The mean concentration of Total Phosphorus for the two available, low-flow summer sample dates at each sentinel stations exceeded the proposed criteria of 44 ug/L for the warm-water medium gradient (WWMG) wadeable stream ecotype in Class B waters. 2014: The Addison County Riverwatch Collaborative will continue to monitor for E.coli, phosphorus (total and dissolved), total suspended sediments, and turbidity at these two sentinel sites in 2014. An increased number of parameters and additional monitoring sites will be evaluated when a more intensive monitoring focus rotates back to the Little Otter Creek for a two-year period beginning in the year 2016. For more information, contact the Little Otter Creek sampling coordinator: Deb Healey, 475-2944, lumiere@gmavt.net Addison County Riverwatch Collaborative coordinator: Matt Witten, 434-3236, mwitten@gmavt.net or visit our web page at: www.acrpc.org/acrwc
Middlebury River - 2013 Water Quality Summary

Site MIR1.5 MIR5.7 Location Shard Villa Rd. Bridge Midd. Gorge @ Rte 125 Bridge Town Middlebury Middlebury
The Addison County Riverwatch Collaborative has been monitoring water quality in the Middlebury River since 1993. For years 2010 through 2013, the number of sampling locations in this watershed has been reduced to two sentinel stations, MIR1.5 and MIR5.7. During 2013, sampling occurred on two spring dates (April 3 and May 1) and four summer dates (June 5, July 10, August 7, and September 4). The spring and early summer dates represented moderate flow conditions on the river, based on records from area USGS streamflow gages. August and September sample dates captured baseflow conditions, while the July 10 event captured moderate to high flows following a storm event on July 3-4 and higher-than-normal May and June rainfall. On an average annual basis, flows in 2013 were near normal in the Addison County watersheds monitored by the Collaborative. Samples were tested for phosphorus and turbidity; E.coli was tested only on the summer dates. E.coli counts at the Middlebury Gorge, a popular swimming hole near the Route 125 bridge (MIR5.7), were well below the federal health-based standard of 235 MPN/100 mL on all four summer sample dates. Results were also below the state water-quality standard of 77 organisms/100 mL. E.coli counts at the downstream station at Shard Villa Road bridge (MIR1.5) were at or above the state standard on all four summer sampling dates, and the July sample exceeded the federal health-based standard. These results are generally consistent with historic summer sampling results, which have shown an increase in E.coli levels in the Middlebury River downstream of the Route 7 bridge.
Turbidity levels in the Middlebury River were low and below the Vermont state standard of 10 NTUs (for Class B cold-water fisheries). Values ranged from 0.2 to 7.8 NTUs, with an average level of 2.4 NTUs for all six sample dates. Based on past years sampling results, Turbidity can increase well above the state standard at times of high flow during a summer thunderstorm, or during Spring runoff conditions particularly in the lower section of the river below the Route 7 bridge.
Phosphorus levels were detected at relatively low concentrations during the six spring and summer sampling dates. Concentrations ranged from 6.8 to 50.1 ug/L, with an average of 17.4 ug/L. Total Phosphorus concentrations detected in 2013 were generally consistent with historic data. Vermont recently proposed in-stream phosphorus criteria for aquatic life and aesthetics uses in wadeable streams (VTDEC, 2009). The mean concentration of Total Phosphorus for the two available low-flow summer sample dates at each site did not exceed the proposed criterion of 44 ug/L for the warm-water medium gradient (WWMG) wadeable stream ecotype in Class B waters. 2014: An increased number of parameters and additional monitoring sites will be evaluated when a more intensive monitoring focus rotates back to the Middlebury River for a two-year period beginning in the year 2014. Additional stations will be added in the headwaters located in Ripton to capture baseline water quality conditions in the South, Middle and North Branches of the Middlebury River. Some of these stations will be co-located with VT Agency of Natural Resources bio-monitoring stations. A greater density of sampling stations will be established downstream of the East Middlebury village to produce an updated assessment of water quality conditions in this lower part of the watershed which is more intensively developed and farmed. For more information, contact the Middlebury River sampling coordinator: Heidi Willis, 352-4327, redsprings@nbnworks.net Addison County Riverwatch Collaborative coordinator: Matt Witten, 434-3236, mwitten@gmavt.net or visit our web page at: www.acrpc.org/acrwc
New Haven River - 2013 Water Quality Summary

Site NHR2 NHR9 NHR11.5 Location Muddy Branch confluence South St. Bridge Bartlett's Falls Pool Town New Haven Bristol Bristol
The Addison County Riverwatch Collaborative has been monitoring water quality in the New Haven River since 1993. For years, 2012 through 2015, the number of sampling locations in this watershed has been reduced to two sentinel stations, NHR2 and NHR9, and a third recreational site monitored only for pathogens (NHR11.5). During 2013, sampling occurred on two spring dates (April 3 and May 1) and four summer dates (June 5, July 10, August 7, and September 4). The spring and early summer dates represented moderate flow conditions on the river, based on records from the USGS gage on the New Haven River at Brooksville. August and September sample dates captured baseflow conditions, while the July 10 event captured moderate to high flows following a storm event on July 3-4 and higher-thannormal May and June rainfall. On an average annual basis, flows in 2013 were near normal in the Addison County watersheds monitored by the Collaborative. Samples were tested for phosphorus and turbidity; E.coli was tested only on the summer dates. E.coli counts at popular recreational sites (South St. Bridge, NHR9; Bartletts Falls, NHR11.5) were below the federal health-based standard of 235 MPN/100 mL and the state water-quality standard of 77 organisms/100 mL on all four summer dates. In the lower watershed, however, the station near Nash Bridge in New Haven (NHR2) indicated E.coli counts elevated above the state standard in July, August and September. The August result exceeded the federal health-based standard. Consistent with historic results, an increasing trend in E.coli levels is evident with distance downstream from station NHR11.5 to NHR2. Developed and agricultural land uses are more prevalent in the lower New Haven River watershed.
Turbidity levels on the New Haven River at the two sampled stations ranged from 0.3 to 6.6 NTUs, with a mean level of 1.6 NTUs for the six sample dates. These turbidity levels were below the Vermont state standard of 10 NTUs (for Class B cold-water fisheries). Results from 2012 are largely consistent with historic trends. Based on past years sampling results, turbidity can increase well above the standard at times of increased flow during a summer thunderstorm, or during spring runoff conditions especially in the lower reaches of the river below the Bristol Flats. A slight increasing trend in turbidity with distance downstream is generally observed during all flow conditions.
Phosphorus was detected at relatively low concentrations on the New Haven River during the spring and summer sampling dates. Concentrations ranged from 5.4 to 26 ug/L, with an average of 13 ug/L. Results were consistent with historic trends, which indicate an increase in concentrations with distance downstream. At all stations, moderately high concentrations of Total Phosphorus have been detected in past years at times of high flow and runoff. In 2013, the mean concentration of Total Phosphorus for the two available low-flow summer sample dates (August 7, September 4) at each of the New Haven River sentinel sites did not exceed the proposed criterion of 44 ug/L for the warm-water medium gradient (WWMG) wadeable stream ecotype in Class B waters. 2014: The Addison County Riverwatch Collaborative will continue to monitor for E.coli, phosphorus and turbidity at these sentinel sites in 2014. An increased number of parameters and additional monitoring sites will be evaluated when a more intensive monitoring focus rotates back to the New Haven River for a two-year period beginning in the year 2016. For more information, contact the New Haven River sampling coordinator: Pete Diminico, 453-3899, diminico@gmavt.net Addison County Riverwatch Collaborative coordinator: Matt Witten, 434-3236, mwitten@gmavt.net or visit our web page at: www.acrpc.org/acrwc
Otter Creek - 2013 Water Quality Summary

Site OTR18 OTR7.3 Location Twin Bridges Picnic Area Vergennes Falls/below outfall Town Weybridge Vergennes
The Addison County Riverwatch Collaborative has been monitoring water quality in the lower Otter Creek since 1992. For years 2010 through 2013, the number of sampling locations in this watershed has been reduced to two sentinel stations. The downstream-most sentinel station is OTR7.3 at the Vergennes Falls below the outfall for the Vergennes wastewater treatment facility. In 2013, the upper sentinel station at Belden Falls was replaced by station OTR18 at the Twin Bridges Picnic Area, due to access limitations at the Belden Falls site. During 2013, sampling occurred on two spring dates (April 3 and May 1) and four summer dates (June 5, July 10, August 7, and September 4). The spring and early summer dates represented moderate flow conditions on the river, based on records from the USGS gage on the Otter Creek at Middlebury and other area gages. August and September sample dates captured baseflow conditions, while the July 10 event captured moderate to high flows following a storm event on July 3-4 and higher-than-normal May and June rainfall. On an average annual basis, flows in 2013 were near normal in the Addison County watersheds monitored by the Collaborative. Samples were tested for phosphorus, nitrogen and turbidity; E.coli was tested only on the summer dates. E.coli concentration in the Otter Creek was nearly at or above the state water-quality standard of 77 MPN/100 mL in each station for three out of the four summer sample dates. None of the reported E.coli counts exceeded the federal health-based standard of 235 MPN/100 mL. E.coli concentrations detected at these sentinel stations during 2013 are relatively consistent with historic results.
Turbidity levels in the Otter Creek at the two sentinel stations were low and below the Vermont state standard of 25 NTUs (for Class B warm-water fisheries). Values ranged from 1.5 to 16.7 NTUs, with a
mean value of 6.1 NTUs for the six sample dates. Results are consistent with historic data, which indicate that median turbidity values are generally less than 10 NTUs. Phosphorus levels were detected at relatively low concentrations during the six spring and summer sampling dates. Concentrations ranged from 17.9 to 133 ug/L, with an average of 45 ug/L. Moderately high concentrations of Total Phosphorus have been recorded in past years at times of high flow and runoff. In 2013, the mean concentration of Total Phosphorus at each of the two available low-flow summer sample dates (August 7 and September 4) was lower than the proposed criterion of 44 ug/L for the warm-water medium gradient (WWMG) wadeable stream ecotype in Class B waters. The Otter Creek might instead be classified as a Slow Winder stream, but criteria have not yet been developed for this ecotype. Nitrogen levels were detected at very low concentrations during the six spring and summer sampling dates, well below the state standard for nitrogen as nitrate (5 mg/L). Concentrations ranged from 0.36 to 0.61 mg/L, with an average of 0.5 mg/L. The mean values of the summer, low-flow, sample results at sites OTR18 and OTR7.3 (0.50 and 0.61 mg/L, respectively) were below the recently proposed instream nitrogen criteria of 0.75 mg/L for WWMG wadeable stream ecotype in Class B waters. 2014: An increased number of monitoring sites along the Otter Creek will be evaluated in 2014 when a more intensive monitoring focus rotates back to the watershed for a two-year period. For more information, the Otter Creek sampling coordinator: Heidi Willis, 352-4327, redsprings@nbnworks.net Addison County Riverwatch Collaborative coordinator: Matt Witten, 434-3236, mwitten@gmavt.net or visit our web page at: www.acrpc.org/acrwc

Addison County Riverwatch Collaborative 2013 Water Quality Summary Report

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Summary Report: 2013 Sampling Results Addison County Riverwatch Collaborative

Digital copy of this report available for download at: www.acrpc.org/acrwc

Addison County Riverwatch Collaborative 24 Februrary 2014

Summary Report: 2013 Sampling Results

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Table 2. 2013 Schedule of Sites / Parameters Spring and Summer

Sample Year: 2013

Site Types: R = Rotational; S = Sentinel; O = Other (special project).

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Table 5. Mean Annual Flows, 1991 2013, ACRWC watersheds.

Lewis Creek 81 77.2 1995 2011 54 214 109 N/A

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Water Year 2013, Daily Mean Flow Normalized to Drainage Area

Normalized Flow (cfs / sq mi)

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Discharge (cfs) (Daily Mean Flow)

4/3/2013, 96 cfs 6/5/2013, 86 cfs 7/10/2013, 135 cfs 5/1/2013, 72 cfs

8/7/2013, 30 cfs 9/4/2013, 34 cfs

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Summary Report: 2013 Sampling Results Appendix C

Appendix A Physical Features of Watersheds Monitored by Addison County Riverwatch Collaborative

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South Mountain Research & Consulting

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Summary Report: 2013 Sampling Results Appendix C

Table A-1. Physical Features of Watersheds.

New Haven River

95% 100% 91%

45% 62% 63%

25.3% 30.3% 19.3%

6.1% 9.7% 7.3%

960 416 256