For a comprehensive guide on LPP program participation, please refer to the 2023 LPP Partner Guide. The Partner Guide provides detailed information on monitoring site selection and test parameters, sampling and quality assurance procedures, flow observations, and data access.
LPP Parameters
- Chloride levels are on the rise in Vermont's waters. Read our explanation of the when, where, and why of chloride monitoring.
2023 Annual Partner Training & Orientation
Field Sampling
- Sulfuric acid Safety Data Sheet
- The Addison County River Watch Collaborative has created this video to demonstrate proper water quality sampling techniques:
- Video demonstration of the total nitrogen sample acidification:
Flow Observations
- Survey123 - As of 2022, LPP is using the app Survey123 to collect flow observations directly from partners in the field.
- Survey123 app - preferred method for completing the Flow Survey123 Form via a phone, tablet, or computer
- Can be used offline and has additional helpful features such as editing previously submitted survey forms
- LaRosa Partnership Program Flow Observation Survey123 App Tutorial
- Survey123 Webform - for use via a web browser if you don't have access to the app
- Survey123 app - preferred method for completing the Flow Survey123 Form via a phone, tablet, or computer
- To view flow observations as they are submitted, please visit the LPP Flow Data Dashboard.
- For a guide on how to use the LPP Flow Data Dashboard, please view this video tutorial.
- Flow Observation Guidelines
- Example flow observation photos. Important reference for identifying flow level and flow category during sampling.
- USGS Current Water Data for VT website for accessing real time data and graphs of flow conditions for gauged streams in Vermont.
Quality Assurance
- How to calculate the relative percent different (RPD)
- How to create a box and whisker plot (Khan Academy)
- Matrix Spike: What is it and why do you need it? The ESS Laboratory has created a document explaining various quality control measures used during data collection.
Additional Resources
- Vermont Assessment Page with Lists of Impaired and Priority Waters
- Vermont Surface Water Assessment and Listing Methodology
- Vermont Surface Water Management Strategy
- Vermont Volunteer Surface Water Monitoring Guide
- EPA's “Volunteer Monitor's Guide to Quality Assurance Project Plans”
- US Geological Survey StreamStats
- WikiWatershed: Freshwater Stewardship Web tools
- Real Statistics using Excel