2013 South River Snapshot

From the mouth of the South River all the way to Bacon Ridge Branch, volunteers ventured into 40 non-tidal sites throughout the South River watershed as part of our annual Snapshot on April 13th. The volunteers collected data, as well as, nutrient and bacteria samples, to give us a “snapshot”of the South River.  Although the data represents just a “snapshot” in time, by collecting data from 40 sites around the South River, and doing it at about the same time each year, gives a good general barometer of the relative health of our streams and creeks. 

The nutrient samples were analyzed by Capt. Diana Muller, SOUTHRIVERKEEPER® and the bacteria samples by Dr. Sally Hornor of Anne Arundel Community College.  Leading up to the Snapshot, we experienced heavy rains which may explain some of the higher levels of nutrients and bacteria.  Every time it rains, polluted stormwater captures sediment, bacteria, nutrients, and other pollutants and carries them into our waterways. Three of the sites failed the EPA limit for bacteria which occurs when levels exceed 104/100 ml. 

Nutrient levels in the river varied considerably by the areas sampled and type of nutrient examined.  For instance, nitrate levels were low coming down from the headwaters area but higher near the mouth of the river.  High nitrate levels are often associated with runoff from septic systems, wastewater treatment plants, or fertilized areas.  High phosphate levels are often associated with fertilizers, detergents, and stream bank erosion, and they varied across the river.

A big THANK YOU to all of our volunteers that made this event possible!