Water Quality Report > Currents Spring 2001 > Saugus River Watershed Council

The Saugus River Watershed Council recently completed a report summarizing water quality conditions throughout the watershed from 1998 through 2000. Results show signs of water quality improvements but continuing pollution associated with fecal coliform bacteria. The report documents results of our volunteer water quality monitoring program, which has been tracking conditions in the Saugus River and its tributaries since 1992.

Volunteers collected water quality samples from 14 sites throughout the watershed on a monthly basis. Samples were analyzed for dissolved oxygen, pH, turbidity, temperature, and fecal coliform bacteria levels. Qualitative observations were also recorded on general site conditions, bank stability, flow, and wildlife. Program findings are used to inform the Council's ongoing efforts to advocate for improved water quality and restoration of historic fisheries. Water quality results are also provided to state and federal public agencies that are working to improve conditions in the Saugus River watershed.

Several sampling parameters indicate improving water quality conditions in the watershed. For example, dissolved oxygen levels met the state's water quality standards 93% of the time during 2000, pH levels met the state standards 96% of the time, and water temperatures were well within the standards needed to support warm water fisheries throughout the year. Improving dissolved oxygen levels may be associated with the more consistent level of flow that was observed in the river during the past couple of years.

Improvements in dissolved oxygen levels are particularly good news because the higher DO levels are needed to support the Council's efforts to restore anadromous fisheries to the Saugus River watershed.

Despite these improvements, the Saugus River and its tributaries continue to be stressed by contamination from fecal coliform bacteria. During 2000, only 40% of the samples met the state's swimming standard for bacteria, and 70% of the samples met the boating standard. Wet weather pollution caused by stormwater, urban runoff, combined sewer overflows and sanitary sewer overflows, is the most significant problem. Several sites also experienced some level of bacterial contamination during dry weather, indicating the potential presence of illegal sewer connections and/or bacteria from wildlife.

If you would like a copy of the report, please contact SRWC at (781) 233-5046 or srw@shore.net.

Saugus River Water Quality 1998 - 2000 Report Available

Saugus River Water Quality
1998 - 2000 Report Available