Resources
Introductory (Phase I) Training Materials
NEW Introductory Video (45 minutes)
Presentations:
Logistics - provides an overview of how Watershed Watch sampling events are conducted
Field Chemistry - provides instructions on using field kits to determine water temperature, pH, dissolved oxygen and conductivity
Grab Sampling - provides instructions on the correct procedure for collecting a water sample and transporting it to the lab for analysis
Recertification
Samplers should be recertified every 3 years to maintain their qualification to participate in annual sampling events. This video will serve as a refresher to remind you of correct sampling procedures.
How to Report a Concern
Watershed Watch Volunteer samplers are critical to protecting Kentucky's water resources because they are often the first to notice related concerns or threats. Our samplers are out and about, familiar with normal creek conditions, and have the training to recognize when conditions are deteriorating.
Regulatory agencies depend on conscientious citizens reporting problems when they find them, so that they can respond promptly to address and limit the damage. While stream conditions naturally fluctuate, there are instances when you may consider alerting the Kentucky Division of Water.
Click here for guidance on reporting a problem.
Connecting Community and water
The pages on Bluegrass Greensource's Watershed-Based Education Site contain resources for families, homeowners, and teachers to explore and learn more about local watersheds and how to improve them.
The site offers information about resources that Bluegrass Greensource promotes throughout Central Kentucky to engage homeowners in hands-on projects to improve their own watershed, along with grant opportunities to help fund best management practices to improve water quality.
Click here for more info.
Other Helpful Resources:
For WWKY Samplers:
Fondriest Environmental Learning Center - provides in-depth explanation of water quality parameters
WikiWatershed Model My Watershed - a watershed modeling web application that enables citizens, conservation practitioners, municipal decision-makers, educators, and students to better understand land use implications to water quality
General Water Info:
USEPA's How's My Waterway - Search by an address to find information about the condition of your local waters, based on data that states, federal, tribal, local agencies and others have provided to the USEPA.
Kentucky Water Health Portal - water quality information provided by the Kentucky Division of Water in a map-based format
Kentucky Watershed Academy - this online training course provides presentations for watershed coordinators and others related to the Clean Water Act, Water Quality Basics, Dealing with Data, Land Use Impacts and Related Best Management Practices, Likely Partners and Effective Communications
Kentucky Watershed Viewer - an ArcGIS-based watershed research tool
Kentucky Waterways Alliance - a nonprofit organization focused on promoting networking, communication and mutual support among groups, government agencies, and businesses working on waterway issues