Watershed Improvement and Community Outreach …s3.amazonaws.com/zanran_storage/ Training for Environmental Progress, Summer 2001 A Project of Virginia Service Training for Environmental

“Introduction,” Bhardwaj and Clark, Wise Co., 2001 1

Watershed Improvement and Community Outreach Programs for the Guest River and Upper Powell River Watersheds

Wise County, Va.

Erica Clark and Asmita Bhardwaj1 Service Training for Environmental Progress, Summer 2001

A Project of Virginia Service Training for Environmental Progress (Va. STEP). STEP is a program of the Virginia Water Resources Research Center, Blacksburg, Va.

1 This version incoproates minor revisions made by STEP to the students’ August 2001 reports. The current version has been approved by STEP as the students’ final project reports. –Alan Raflo, STEP Assistant Director, September 21, 2001.

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Acknowledgments

We would like to express our appreciation to the many people who contributed to making our summer interesting and fun while providing an excellent learning experience. During the course of the summer we had the opportunity to get to work closely with several people dedicated to the protection of their water resources. Our Guest River Restoration Group site supervisor, Toby Edwards, doled out extensive knowledge of the watershed, region and anything else we had questions about and humor in equal measure. Toby introduced us to the local culture and demonstrated the characteristic friendliness of the people in the area. You couldn’t ask for a more welcoming introduction to the summer. Sandy Riggs, our Hands Across the Mountain, Inc. site supervisor, is a remarkable woman who somehow manages to balance several demanding jobs and make it look easy. It was a pleasure and an honor working with her. She taught me more about dedication and how to get things done than anyone I’ve worked with before. Her dedication and determination are evident, inspiring others to take part in watershed conservation, historic preservation, and numerous other avenues. Toby and Sandy have taught me determination, humor and dedication pay excellent dividends in watershed management. It was truly an honor and a pleasure working with both of them. Brad Stallard from the Wise County Health Department introduced us to the intricacies of environmental health and the world of sewage disposal systems. Richard Davis from the Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy took us on field trips to witness first-hand surface mining and the effects of mines to the watershed. He also afforded us the opportunity to spend time with kids interested in environmental science attending the Mountain Empire Community College Tech Prep summer camp. This was a wonderful experience we both enjoyed. There are many more people who each played a key role in our work this summer. We would like to express our thanks and gratitude to these individuals who we are fortunate to consider colleagues.

Jason Anderson, Graduate Assistant, Virginia Tech Stan Botts, Hands Across the Mountain, Inc. Steve Gibson, LENOWISCO (Lee, Norton, Wise and Scott Counties) Planning Commission Jack Kennedy, Wise County Circuit Court Clerk Joey O’Quinn, Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy T. Shannon O’Quinn, Tennessee Valley Authority Kim Porter, Student, Virginia Tech Skip Skinner, LENOWISCO Planning Commission Jessica Sweeney, Wise County Circuit Court Deputy Clerk Clayton Wiles, Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals, and Energy staff Lonesome Pine Soil and Water Conservation District staff Wise County Health Department staff

We would also like to thank the Wise County Health Department and Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy for providing us with a workstation, technical support, and a continuous flow of personal assistance in our nine weeks during the summer. Their hospitality was crucial to the success of our projects and is very much appreciated.


Funds for this project were provided by the Virginia Water Resources Research Center, with assistance by the Guest River Restoration Group, and Hands Across the Mountain, Inc. This project was also supported by a grant from the Camp Yount Foundation (Raleigh, North Carolina), provided to STEP by the Virginia Tech Service-Learning Center. Additional financial support was provided by the U.S. Office of Surface Mining and Reclamation, Washington, D.C.

Introduction

This summer we were fortunate to be able to work with two outstanding watershed conservation groups in Wise County. The Guest River Restoration Group (GRRG) and Hands Across the Mountain, inc. (Hands) shared the intern positions and responsibilities, which meant we were able to spend the first five weeks with the GRRG and the subsequent four weeks with Hands. This is unique in the STEP internship program as we were not at the same location the entire summer and thus we have generated two separate reports each organization can use for future development. These reports are combined within this final report for STEP; however, the two individual reports have been included in their entirety and may display some repetitive information in certain areas such as the goals and objectives outlined for our training period. This also contributes to the lengthiness of the combined document. It was an excellent experience and one we both highly recommend to successive STEP and OSM interns.

Relevant Definitions The following is a list of some terms and acronyms commonly used throughout the report. The terms will be in bold the first time they appear in the body of the report.

1. Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) = High levels of chemical compounds in water sources. Exposure to air and water causes a chemical reaction in certain minerals. This is a natural weathering process, however human interference can cause this process to accelerate, causing high levels of acids, metals and sulfates (sulfur and oxygen containing compounds) to be expelled into water bodies.

2. Streamwalk Assessment = a visual evaluation of a stream and adjacent riparian area. 3. TMDL (Total Maximum Daily Load) = the amount of a pollutant a body of water can

receive and still meet water quality standards. This is a legal mandate made by the Clean Water Act, section 303d.

4. Coal camps = communities constructed, owned and operated as company towns to house miners in the late-1800s through the mid-1900s.

5. Point source pollution = a pollution source with a known specific output location such as a discharge pipe for wastewater from a treatment plant or industry.

6. Non-point source pollution = a pollution source with an unknown specific output location such as agriculture and urban run-off.

7. Watershed = the land area from which surface water runs off to a specific water body. 8. Impaired waters = a condition where a steam does not support a legally designated use, or

meet a legally designated standard. 9. Benthic Macro invertebrates = aquatic bottom-dwelling creatures visible without a

microscope, lacking a backbone. 10. Global Positioning System (GPS) = a handheld mapping tool using a triangulation

technique and satellites to locate positions. 11. CyberTracker = software developed for visual assessments using Personal Digital Assistants

and GPS units.

“Guest Watershed Report,” Bhardwaj and Clark, Wise Co., 2001 1

Watershed Improvement and Community Outreach Programs for the Guest River Restoration Group

Wise County, Va.

Lonesome Pine Soil and Water Conservation District Guest River Restoration Group

Final Report 29 May – 13 July 2001

Office of Surface Mining and Service Training for Environmental Progress

Graduate Interns Erica Clark, Masters Urban and Regional Planning

Asmita Bhardwaj, Masters Urban and Regional Planning Virginia Tech


Table of Contents

Executive Summary 3 Description of Service 3 Accomplishments 3 Background on the Guest River Watershed Group 4 Realizations Original Intent 5 Methodology 6 Changes in the Goals and Objectives 8 Project Partners 9 Advice Advice to future Interns 10 Advice to Guest River Watershed Group 11 Advice to Office of Surface Mining 12 Status Report: Results 13 Final In-Kind Report 18 Appendixes Appendix 1: Contents of the Homeowner Information Packet 20

Appendix 2: Press Release announcing Sewage Disposal Survey in the Guest River 21

Appendix 3: Notice of Visitation 22 Appendix 4: Sewage Disposal Contact Information sheet 23 Appendix 5: Survey included in the packets for homeowners to complete 24 Appendix 6: Survey for Surveyor to complete 25 Appendix 7: User Guide for Sewage Disposal System Surveyors 26 Appendix 8: User Guide for creating a Microsoft Access database 29

Appendix 9: Charts of homeonwer survey results Table 1: Percentage of homeowner septic tanks related to age 32

Table 2: Percentage of homeowners Available at the time of survey 32 Table 3: Types of sewage disposal systems in percentages 33 Table 4: Percentage of gray water to homeowner septic tank 33 Table 5: Percentage of septic tanks pumped related to years 34


Executive Summary Sponsoring Agency: Lonesome Pine Soil and Water Conservation District Supervisor: Toby Edwards Agency Contact: Route 2 Box B Clintwood, Virginia Tel (540) 926.6621 Fax (540) 926.4640 [email protected] www.geocities.com/guest Interns: Erica Clark Asmita Bhardwaj 300 Penn St #2 1202 Snyder Lane 1400C Blacksburg, VA 24060 Blacksburg, VA 24060 Tel (540) 961-3162 Tel (540) 552-2662 [email protected] [email protected] Description of Service The first two weeks of the internship were spent in training to fulfill STEP requirements. We began work for the Guest River Restoration Group on June 11, 2001. Creating a survey to determine homeowner sewage disposal methods for the Guest River watershed, as well as the corresponding database, were our primary goals. We had numerous secondary duties for our service. One of these was three days working with the environmental science campers at the local community college summer camp. We also prioritized Acid Mine Drainage sites and visited two of these sites. Accomplishments The following are accomplishments completed in the course of the five weeks while working with the Guest River Watershed Group. Ø Created a homeowner questionnaire for sewage disposal systems in the Guest River

watershed in conjunction with the Wise County Department of Health and the Lonesome Pine Soil and Water Conservation District. The questionnaire was the starting point to map existing and potential water quality problems in the Guest River.

Ø Surveyed over 200 homes and distributed information packets in the Guest River watershed. Ø Developed a database in Microsoft Access for the survey data as well as manuals for

surveyors and database users. The survey data is to be available to all partner organizations. Ø Prioritized acid mine drainage sites located in the Guest River watershed. Ø Conducted environmental education at a summer camp for teenagers.


Background on the Guest River Watershed Group The Guest River watershed includes the towns of Wise, Norton, and Coeburn in southwest Virginia, and is the third largest tributary to the Clinch River. Water quality in the Guest River has been on a continuous decline since the advent of resource extraction, namely logging and coal mining, in the region. The Guest River Group—an informal alliance of citizens and agencies—conducted studies which have shown it to be the most polluted tributary to the Clinch River. Major pollution sources include inadequate sewage treatment throughout the watershed, erosion, agricultural runoff, and illegal dumping. As a result of this pollution, the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) has listed the Guest River watershed, nearly in its entirety, on the Virginia “impaired waters” list. The Guest River is “impaired” as a result of high bacteria levels from sewage, as well as from the side-effects of resource extraction, such as sedimentation and acid mine drainage. The two primary concerns to communities in the region are work and water. Never having been an economically affluent area, the decline in the coal industry in recent years has resulted in increased unemployment and a reduction in the tax base. This additional pressure on residents has resulted in greater difficulty maintaining basic infrastructure such as sewage systems and water supply. The geology of the area, as well as the contaminated surface water described previously, have made water supply a serious issue to communities in the region. The Guest River Group has implemented the Guest River Watershed Restoration Project in order to address these detrimental environmental issues. The Project is currently funded by the Virginia Water Quality Improvement Fund and involves numerous agencies and local stakeholders. These participants collaborate on a variety of projects to improve the water quality of the Guest River. Current projects include the following: Ø a cost-share septic tank pump-out program for watershed residents; Ø erosion and sediment control/riparian vegetation projects; Ø wastewater treatment systems for single family dwellings; Ø cleanup of illegal dump sites along the river; Ø stenciling of storm drains in urban areas to remind residents that whatever goes into the

drains ends up in the river; Ø tree give-away to landowners along the river and its tributaries to encourage erosion

reduction; Ø an outdoor classroom that partially fulfills Virginia’s Standards of Learning for children K-

12; Ø seminars and workshops on alternative wastewater treatment systems, non-point source

pollution, and composting. The Guest River Group is responsible for 400 septic tank pump-outs, the installation of 48 wastewater systems, 4 abandoned mine land reclamations, 15 illegal dump clean-ups, and numerous other watershed improvement projects. These successes have drawn national and local attention to the Guest River Group and their activities. They have been the recipients of numerous local, state, regional, and national awards and are recognized as a model watershed organization in the nation.


Realizations ORIGINAL INTENT The initial goals and objectives for the Watershed Improvement and Community Outreach Programs for the Guest River Restoration Group are as follows:

Goal 1: Educate Interns in the proper use of GPS software and hardware and set a framework

for conducting Public Outreach. Objectives:

1. Field trip to familiarize students with survey area and route of Guest River. 2. Conduct a workshop on the use of Trimble GEO III hardware and Pathfinder 280 software.

These are components of a global positioning system. 3. Field demonstration of the Trimble GEO III hardware. 4. Assist interns in developing a straight-pipe questionnaire. 5. Inform interns on proper safety guidelines. 6. Familiarize interns with different sewage disposal methods. 7. Discuss water safety. 8. Develop homeowner information packet regarding health and environmental impacts of

improper sewage disposal. 9. Develop a database for storage of survey information.

Goal 2: Implement straight-pipe survey of the mainstream of the Guest River. Objectives:

1. Define survey area. 2. Define Daily Activity schedule. 3. Accompany interns on initial survey to ensure proper procedures. 4. Interns conduct survey along mainstream of Guest River. 5. Quality assurance follow-up at surveyed homes. 6. Daily input field data and correct GPS field data.

Goal 3: Lay the framework for making the results of the survey available to interested government and/or private organizations. Objectives:

1. Map survey results. 2. Package survey results in a report format. 3. Devise a framework for making the collected survey data available to interested parties via

Internet, fact sheets, etc. Goal 4: Prioritize Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) Sites that are located in the Guest River Watershed. Objectives:

1. Familiarize interns with AMD in the GRW. 2. Review the geography of the GRW. 3. Overview of the computer software needed to prioritize the AMD sites. 4. Prioritize AMD sites based on the impacts to the environment and to streams. 5. Assist in environmental career development for middle school students.


METHODOLOGY Goal 1: Educate Interns in the proper use of GPS software and hardware and set a framework for

conducting Public Outreach. Objective 1: Field trip to familiarize students with survey area and route of Guest River. Method: Site supervisors familiarized us first with a map of the Guest River Watershed. Following that, we received a tour of the watershed beginning at the headwaters, along with a description of the history and cultural traditions of the famous coal-mining region. This technique of combining field experiences along with printed information was successful in giving us a comprehensive picture of the problem they would be addressing. The field tour and an informal lunch helped build a good working relation with the site supervisors at the very start. Objectives 2&3: Conduct a workshop on the use of Trimble GEO III hardware and Pathfinder 280 software. Field demonstration of the Trimble GEO III hardware. Method: Supervisors instructed us on use of Trimble and Pathfinder in the office and at a site in a nearby area. This was successful in achieving the immediate objectives of using GPS to map straight pipes and other water-related problems. They also made us aware of the wide array of functions and situations that a GPS could accomplish. This was useful as we were able to design a data dictionary for the database, which could be used to collect information from field features and attributes. These could later be exported in a number of formats such as Arcview or Access. Objective 4: Familiarize interns with different sewage disposal methods. Method: Our site supervisors used public -information leaflets and brochures, technical leaflets developed by the Wise County Health Department, and field tours of types of sewage disposal systems to impart knowledge about the different kinds of sewage disposal systems used in the area. One shortcoming of the field tours was the limited time available to observe the different kinds of sewage disposal systems. A broader spectrum of knowledge regarding septic systems and their maintenance is especially useful while answering any questions from the homeowners during the survey. Objective 5: Assist interns in developing a straight-pipe questionnaire. Method: A tentative questionnaire were developed using information brochures and pamphlets regarding conventional and unconventional septic systems available at the Health Department, information gained from previous field tours of the watershed, initial goals and objectives of the survey, and sample questionnaires. This was further refined under the guidance of the site supervisors and through feedback from initial surveys. Objective 6: Develop a database for storage of survey information. Method: Based on the questionnaire, a database to input information collected during surveys was developed. At first, Excel spreadsheets were used for creating the database as they were thought to be compatible with the rest of the systems being used in the other information systems in the county. Later we switched to Access as it provides a superior platform for storing, analyzing, and presenting information. This database was used to input information collected from field surveys. Objectives 7&8: Discuss water safety. Inform interns on proper safety guidelines. Method: Site Supervisors gave us a brief lecture on the nature of hazards we could face while conducting the surveys. Objective 9: Develop homeowner information packet regarding health and environmental impacts of improper sewage disposal.


Method: In addition to implementing the straight pipe survey, an additional goal was to conduct a public outreach exercise. We were asked to inform homeowners about septic tank maintenance, straight pipes and related health issues, and financial opportunities they could refer to in order to improve their sewage disposal systems. Keeping these points in mind, a homeowner information packet was compiled. Conventional and non-conventional sewage disposal system brochures were developed by the Health Department, along with informational material on the Guest River Watershed from Lonesome Pine Soil and Water Conservation District. This also contained contact numbers of relevant agencies and a stamped, returnable survey questionnaire for homeowners not at home at the time of the survey. We developed a separate packet for children, consisting of coloring books and attractive materials regarding watersheds. Goal 2: Implement straight-pipe survey of the mainstream of the Guest River. Objectives:

1. Define survey area. 2. Define Daily Activity schedule 3. Accompany interns on initial survey to ensure proper procedures. 4. Interns conduct survey along mainstream of Guest River. 5. Quality assurance follow-up at surveyed homes. 6. Daily input field data and correct GPS field data

Method: To implement the survey, a general survey area was defined using 911 maps with blocks and street addresses of homeowners (available at the Wise County Courthouse). Digitized base maps or detailed GIS maps were not available at the start of the survey. A larger map showing hydrology, railway lines, and other features in the Guest River Watershed was used as an overall guide. The small-scale maps were useful in marking the house numbers surveyed while in the field at the time of the survey. Initially the site supervisors, who set a direction for carrying out the exercise further, accompanied us. Using the homeowner packets compiled before, we carried out a survey of 200 homes, targeting at least 30-50 homes each day. The mail-in homeowner survey proved to be useful. More than 10 homeowners mailed us back the stamped surveys within a week of the survey. A daily activity schedule was formulated for each day. We divided the day into parts for surveying and inputting data and marking the surveyed homes on the 911 maps. We input data in the Access database created earlier as soon as it was collected. This helped us maintain the quality of data. Marking the surveyed homes on the 911 map of the area was very useful as it set a direction for the next batch of surveys. To collect GPS points we visited the listed homeowners again (with suspected straight pipes or gray water discharges). Going back to the surveyed homeowners did not prove to be easy; it would have been useful if GPS points are taken as and when the homes were surveyed. But many times this was not possible because the required number of satellites is available for only a part of the day. Goal 3: Lay the framework for making the results of the survey available to interested government and/or private organizations. Objectives:

1. Map survey results. 2. Package survey results in a report format. 3. Devise a framework for making the collected survey data available to interested parties via

Internet, web pages, fact sheets, etc. Method: Since digitized base maps of Wise County were not available, the survey locations were mapped on a paper 911 map. We also made an attempt to map addresses on TIGER 95 (a digital


map from the Internet). This proved to be only partially successful as TIGER maps lacked the details we wanted to map, such as specific house numbers and stream names. It would have been useful if we had obtained a digitized map prior to the survey; this would have saved us time in hunting for data on the Internet. Address Geocoding, using Arcview GIS to show survey locations, will be attempted at a later date, once the GIS base layer for Wise County is available. Surveys, which were earlier entered into the Access database, were analyzed using queries. Both Access and Excel were used to create tables, graphs, and charts. All of this information is on a CD at the Lonesome Pine Soil and Water Conservation District, which they will later upload on their website to make it available in a convenient format for the general public. Goal 4: Prioritize Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) Sites that are located in the Guest River Watershed. Objectives:

1. Familiarize interns with AMD in the GRW. 2. Review the geography of the GRW. 3. Overview of the computer software needed to prioritize the AMD sites. 4. Prioritize AMD sites based on the impacts to the environment and to streams. 5. Assist in environmental career development for middle school students.

Method: The site supervisor at the DMME familiarized us with AMD in the watershed by making available pertinent literature developed at DMME, which discusses the chemistry and processes in AMD sites. We toured AMD sites in the Guest River Watershed to get a better picture of the issue. Excel was used to prioritize 100 AMD sites in the Guest River Watershed. Goal 5: Assist in environmental career development for middle school students through the Mountain Empire Community College Tech Prep Summer Camp environmental science sector. Objectives:

1. Assist Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy (DMME) biologists teach the students biological monitoring techniques such as pH and iron testing and fish identification.

2. Conduct environmental education by doing invertebrate sampling utilizing the Save Our Streams (SOS) stream monitoring techniques.

Method: We worked at a 3-day summer camp for teenagers from Wise County Public Schools. We assisted the camp supervisors in carrying out the environmental science section of the camp. We instructed a group of teenagers in the Izaak Walton League’s Save Our Streams method of water quality assessment in three streams in the local area with varying water quality. We also trained them to note down observations, analyze the results, and compile them in a presentation format. The teenagers later presented these to a small gathering of parents and summer camp instructors. CHANGES IN THE GOALS AND OBJECTIVES Goals 4 and 5 (as written above) were changed from the original. We separated Goal 4 into two separate goals. Upon learning the details of the duties expected of us for the summer camp, we decided objective 5 under Goal 4 should be listed under a goal unto itself with clear objectives. We divided them as follows: Goal 4: Prioritize Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) sites that are located in the Guest River Watershed (GRW). Objectives:

1. Familiarize interns with AMD in the GRW.


2. Review the geography of the GRW. 3. Overview of the computer software needed to prioritize the AMD sites. 4. Prioritize AMD sites based on the impacts to the environment and to streams.

Goal 5: Assist in environmental career development for middle school students through the Mountain Empire Community College Tech Prep Summer Camp environmental science sector. Objectives:

1. Assist Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy (DMME) biologists teach the students biological monitoring techniques such as pH and iron testing and fish identification.

2. Conduct environmental education by doing invertebrate sampling utilizing the Save Our Streams (SOS) stream monitoring techniques.

PROJECT PARTNERS The following is a list of the members of the Guest River Group. Students of the University of Virginia’s College at Wise Coeburn Job Corp Program Boy Scouts Cub Scouts Girl Scouts Master Gardener’s of Wise Wise County Clean Team Lonesome Pine Soil and Water Conservation District Wise County Health Department City of Norton LENOWISCO Planning District Black Diamond Resource Conservation and Development District Natural Resources Conservation Service Powell River Project Tennessee Valley Authority The Nature Conservancy U.S. Forest Service Virginia Game and Inland Fisheries Wise County Board of Supervisors Wise County Public Service Authority


Advice to Future STEP/OSM Interns

1. Don’t be scared of field surveys, just get out in the field and you’ll be a pro in no time. 2. Do not push people during surveys; gently veer them towards the topic you want information

on. You may get seemingly useless information, but it may not turn out to be so useless after all.

3. Make notes of whatever you observe. Off-hand comments that people make might not make sense to you now, but they might mean more to someone who knows the area better. You might be providing your site supervisor a very important piece of information.

4. It is good to have information packets to give people during surveys. We distributed the homeowner information packets and also had ones for children.

5. Don’t be intimidated by the reports and paperwork required. Keep up with them; they are time-consuming, but not difficult.


Advice to the Guest River Watershed Group

1. Providing interns clear objectives and goals as you did was wonderful. It made our job a lot easier when we knew what was expected of us with a timeframe.

2. The support you gave us was also ideal. There was never a question of whether you could help us or not, just a question of when we could meet and where.

3. Having access to a cell phone while out in the field is a good idea, particularly if interns will be surveying or out monitoring the river.

4. We have realized that having our own state car was a significant aid to surveying. It reinforced our position when people were reluctant to provide us with sensitive information regarding their waste systems.

It was wonderful working with this organization. They gave us support and direction, while giving us ample room to develop our own framework. Toby and Brad, from the Health Dept, were both knowledgeable about the region and gave us specific information we needed in order to get the projects completed. Anything we asked for they tried to get for us and were great to get to know. We enjoyed working with them and highly recommend this site for future interns. It would be an excellent opportunity for an intern through STEP as well as through OSM.


Advice to OSM

1. The final report format does not provide for much attention on the background of the work being done. Incorporating this section would be useful as it may help obtain a better a picture of the area and the role of the interns.

2. It would be useful to have some guidance from OSM regarding the possibility of publication of the work done by the interns, individually or as part of the larger effort.

3. It would also be ideal if OSM provided feedback during the summer as well as at the end of the internship regarding projects and reports. It would be nice to have some idea of how they think we are doing in the scope of OSM.

4. A trip to the OSM headquarters and meeting with some of the key people would have been useful for the interns to better understand the work OSM does.

5. We spent a minimum of eight hours a week on reports. If it is possible to decrease the amount of reporting on activities, this would be beneficial to all partners involved as it takes away time better spent on the activities we are here to carry out.

6. The sample reports provided a useful guideline for documentation. The guidelines for the in-kind report are particularly useful since it can be very critical to small non-profit organizations and watershed groups.


Status Report: Results TRAINING GOAL AND OBJECTIVES Goal 1: To help students develop understanding of the complexity and importance of water resources and learn skills that helps them respond to that complexity and importance and to enable students to help citizens and community groups get non-partisan, reliable, and low-cost information about local water quality and how to protect it through a 15-day training session at Blacksburg. Objective 1: “Understand the activities of the Water Center and being a STEP/ Water Center Intern.”

Mr. Raflo introduced us to the various facets of the Water Center, the publications and resources available through the Water Center. We received toolboxes, which are sets of publications, etc. to help with our work and the SOS kit. We learned about what being a STEP intern means and the basic safety rules for working in natural environments at Blacksburg. Objective 2: “Learn general safety measures for both land and water.”

We learned the basics of being able to administer basic first aid and to be safe around a water body and save a person from drowning in water. We did not really use the latter part but it was good to know; especially during the summer camp when we were sampling water in streams with children aged 10-14. We used the general safety measures on thunderstorms when we were caught in a big thunderstorm while we were in Wise County. Objective 3: “To be able to work knowledgeably and professionally with any given Virginia -certified lab and be familiar with procedures for chemical and bacteriological analysis of water.”

We learned what different types of certification mean and the nature of facilities provided by a lab. We toured Olver Laboratories in Blacksburg, providing us with an example of where the community members can get water monitoring lab work done.

Objective 4: “To be able to carry out water sampling and impart the techniques to others.”

We learned procedures for sampling water for chemical or bacteriological analysis. Objective 5: “To be able to conduct SOS biological monitoring.”

We conducted the SOS water sampling method for rocky-bottom streams and learned the role that citizens could play in SOS stream monitoring in Virginia. Objective 6: “To be able to gain knowledge and skills for teaching about water and watersheds.”

We learned the basics of watershed concepts and models available to demonstrate these concepts. We were educated on the use of creative exercises for demonstrating the importance of a watershed and the impacts of human activities on a watershed. Objective 7: “To be able to carry out stream corridor Assessment and use of GPS.”

We learned methods for assessing physical characteristics of stream corridors and the use of global positioning system units. Objective 8: “To be able to learn about Farm-a-Syst/Home-a-Syst , an assessment system which will help us identify and assess potential threats to homeowners’ groundwater quality.”

We learned about a simple assessment system to analyze homeowners’ groundwater quality. We often found this useful, as certain homeowners we surveyed for straight pipes had private wells for drinking water.


Objective 9: “To learn about communities found in Virginia, identify some of the social and cultural challenges students may face in their internship communities and develop summer internship work plans.”

We got a peek into the communities from the site supervisors and were able to etch out our summer work plans. The community picture was fleshed out better when we started working with the members of the community. Objective 10: “To be able to learn about the Clean Water Act Overview and Quality assurance/Quality control (QA/QC) Plan Development Overview.”

Through group presentations we were able to learn about these. We used the Clean Water act terminology extensively while communicating with the site supervisors and other people. Objective 11: “Learn about basic STEP Procedures.”

We were able to learn about the procedure for filling wage sheets, mileage sheets for the Water center and procedures for making OSM reports etc. that we used during the summer. GUEST RIVER GOALS AND OBJECTIVES Goal 1: Educate Interns in the proper use of GPS software and hardware and set a framework

for conducting Public Outreach. Objective 1: “Field trip to familiarize students with survey area and route of Guest River.” Site supervisors, Brad Stallard and Toby Edwards, familiarized us with a map of the watershed in Wise County. They then took us on a tour of the Guest River watershed starting at the headwaters. They also described the history and current economic/environmental standing of this coal-mining region. This gave us an excellent background on the region we are working in, as well as made us aware of the rich cultural history of the people in the towns we will be surveying. Objective 2: “Conduct a workshop on the use of Trimble GEO III hardware and Pathfinder 280 software.” Brad conducted a workshop for us on using the GPS unit and corresponding software. We spent some time going over the software and went through the instructive CD Rom for using the GPS unit as well as for the software. Objective 3: “Field demonstration of the Trimble GEO III hardware.” We went to a nearby site and took several site samples using the GPS unit. It was necessary to see how this is done and the time and technique needed to take a satisfactory sample. Objective 4: “Assist interns in developing a straight-pipe questionnaire.” Brad provided a survey outline the Department of Health had developed for a previous survey. Working with Toby and Brad, we adapted this survey to fit our goals for a Homeowner Sewage Disposal Survey to be conducted in the Guest River watershed. Two versions of the survey were developed, one for the interviewers to ask questions and take observations, and another to leave with homeowners to fill out if we found them unavailable at the time. Objective 5: “Inform interns on proper safety guidelines.” Brad and Toby outlined Health Department requirements and strategies for conducting door-to-door surveys. We became comfortable with the area and with their advice. We did the


surveying as partners in order to reduce any unforeseen risks; however, there proved to be few problems on the survey route. Objective 6: “Familiarize interns with different sewage disposal methods.” Brad provided information leaflets and brochures that the public receives, and technical leaflets developed by the Wise County Health Department. We also discussed several sewage disposal methods and what is popular here. We went on field tours to see various types of sewage disposal systems which all combined to provide us a solid understanding of different systems. Objective 7: “Discuss water safety.” Brad and Toby went over proper water safety in the Guest River area and potential hazards, which were mostly bacteriological. We talked about what to do and not to do in certain situations in the river. It turned out that we spent very little time actually in the water, decreasing the chance for contaminants affecting us from the water. Objective 8: “Develop homeowner information packet regarding health and environmental impacts of improper sewage disposal.” With Toby and Brad, we decided on what we should include in a public outreach packet to raise awareness of sewage disposal. Included in the packet were brochures developed by the Health Department regarding conventional forms of septic tanks as well as alternative systems, along with information on the Guest River Watershed. The packets also contained contact numbers of relevant agencies. The “unavailable” packet included a self-addressed, stamped, survey for homeowners as well. A separate packet was developed for the children, with colorful books and attractive materials regarding watersheds developed by DCR and other agencies. The Wise County Health Department and the Lonesome Pine SWCD have packets available for interested parties. Objective 9: “Develop a database for storage of survey information.” Based on the questionnaire, we developed a database system to input information obtained from the field. We then created this database for analyzing field information and to serve as a background for inputting further information. We initially tried to put the database on the GPS software, Pathfinder, but this proved to be too complicated and not what the software was designed for. We then took a step back and created a Microsoft Excel database, as they were thought to be compatible with the rest of the systems being used in the other information systems in the County. After creating the survey and talking to Toby and Brad, we decided to take the extra time to develop the Access database, as it would be more suitable for the Health Department’s needs. We then made the survey in Access, which made it an easy process to enter the field data we collected as well as to explain to the people who will be conducting the surveying after us. Toby and Brad will be updating the database with successive surveys. The database is located at the Lonesome Pine SWCD office. Goal 2: Implement straight-pipe survey of the mainstream of the Guest River. Objective 1: “Define survey area.” Toby and Brad outlined the main stream of the Guest River using a USGS topographical map. We then drove along the mainstream, which provided a firsthand view of the area we were to cover. Objective 2: “Define Daily Activity schedule.” We decided to outline our weekly activities the preceding Thursday. This worked well in that it provided an framework for accomplishing our goals in a timely manner. It also gave Toby and Brad an agenda of our activities so they could alter their schedules accordingly.


Objective 3: “Accompany interns on initial survey to ensure proper procedures.” On our first day of surveying, Toby accompanied us as we were still a little unfamiliar with the region as well as still learning about the intricacies of the various sewage disposal methods popular in the region. This was a great idea as he advised us on survey techniques as well as provided information about water quality standards when a few people asked us these questions. Objective 4: “Interns conduct survey along mainstream of Guest River.” We began surveying at the headwaters of the Guest River and worked our way down to the Norton city limits, where city sewer lines then cover homes. We surveyed more than 200 homes. On the first day of surveying, we determined we needed to create a fact sheet with contact numbers of agencies and personnel who can assist homeowners with questions and financial assistance to repair or install a septic system. We included this sheet with all subsequent packets. Objective 5: “Quality assurance follow-up at surveyed homes.” This objective was to ensure that the Health Department stayed aware of any situations in which we were unsure of data (for instance, being unsure if a particular home had a failing septic system). All the information we collected was filtered through the Health Department where they will address any issues such as these. Objective 6: “Daily input field data and correct GPS field data” The data we have collected in the field has been entered into the database successfully. Each survey and subsequent information is accessible to the database users. Queries were developed on the fields Toby could foresee needing for future use. In addition, two user guides, one for the development of the database, and the other for database users, were developed in order to make the transition smoother for the next database creator and surveyor, respectively. We did not fully realize this objective as we ran into technical problems using the GPS unit and could not take any points during the surveying. Each time we tried to take site locations, there were an inadequate numbers of satellites for a lock on the location. This information is key to the development of the map the Guest River Group wants to develop and we hope this is something that can be done in the future. Goal 3: Lay the framework for making the results of the survey available to interested government and/or private organizations. Objective 1: “Map survey results” As stated above, we could not take the GPS site locations and therefore could not map the survey results utilizing latitude and longitude. We mapped our progress on the current 911 maps obtained from the County Courthouse, although this was not the original intent of this objective. Maps can be found at the Wise County web-site. Objective 2: “Package survey results in a report format.” We have completed the results on the information collected to date. Objective 3: “Devise a framework for making the collected survey data available to interested parties via Internet, web pages, fact sheets, etc.” Excel is the software in which the survey results eventually needed to be formulated, as it is used by the Lonesome Pine SWCD to upload the information to the Internet and Web page. We used the Access software, from which the survey queries and reports can be transferred to Excel to


produce graphs and graphics that display the results in an easy to ready format. The Lonesome Pine SWCD will then be able to upload these to the web-site ensuring confidentiality to the homeowners. Goal 4: Prioritize Acid Mine Drainage (AMD) Sites that are located in the Guest River Watershed (GRW). Objective 1: “Familiarize interns with AMD in the GRW.” Richard Davis provided Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) material for us to read to acquaint ourselves with Acid Mine Drainage and ways in which to mediate it. He told us about a few AMD sites in the area that have been problems, and we visited several AMD sites with Richard. Objective 2: “Review the geography of the GRW.” We were fairly well acquainted with the geography of the Guest River Watershed by the time we began work on Goal 4. Richard set up a field trip where we viewed a surface mine operation, as well as the surface level of a deep mine. This provided an overview of the geology of the area and of coal mining. Objective 3: “Overview of the computer software needed to prioritize the AMD sites.” We initially thought this project would be a lot more in depth than it has turned out to be. The software we used to prioritize the AMD sites is Excel. We had fairly extensive experience with this software already and needed little assistance with this. Objective 4: “Prioritize AMD sites based on the impacts to the environment and to streams.” We prioritized the sites according to the guidelines Richard outlined for us. These were to sort the sites in ascending order for concentrations of iron, pH, and manganese, and then to evaluate iron and pH together. Richard received the results and will use them to assess prioritization for future land reclamation. Goal 5: Assist in environmental career development for middle school students through the Mountain Empire Community College Tech Prep Summer Camp environmental science sector. Objective 1: “Assist Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy (DMME) biologists in teaching students monitoring techniques, such as pH and iron testing and fish identification.”

We spent three days with 6th-8th graders who were participating in the environmental science section of the Tech Prep Summer Camp at Mountain Empire Community College. We helped the biologists at DMME shock and gather fish for identification and teaching purposes. Richard showed the kids how to do pH and iron testing to judge water quality. It was an excellent opportunity to spend some time with young teenagers as they became aware of the ecosystems in their streams and rivers. Objective 2: “Conduct environmental education by doing macroinvertebrate sampling utilizing the Save Our Streams (SOS) stream monitoring techniques.” We were successful in getting the students into the water and showing them some stream life and the impacts humans can have on aquatic habitats. We used the SOS kit and D-frame nets to get the children involved in the sampling process. We did the SOS sampling each day with the same group of children.


Final “In Kind” Report

Covering Dates: 29 May – 13 July 2001 Communication: Copies: 250 copies x $0.05 = $12.50

a) 200 = miscellaneous instructional material used during initial STEP training b) 30= miscellaneous instructional material used during Midsummer STEP training c) 40 = miscellaneous reports/surveys for GRW at Health Department d) 8 = maps at the County Courthouse

Telephone Calls: 9 calls x $1.00 = $9.00

a) 9 calls for coordination of GRW projects made from the Health Dept. Services: Supervision and training: 152.5 hrs x $37/hr = $ 5642.50

a) 3 hrs with Ms. Julie Jordan, VT Biol. Systems Engineering Dept., for demonstration of the methods for analyzing water samples.

b) 70 hrs with Mr. Alan Raflo, STEP coordinator who trained us on SOS Biological Monitoring, Water Sampling Practices, supervised preparation and meeting with Site Supervisors, guided students through presentations of the Quality assurance control (QA/QC) Plan Development Overview and Clean Water Act, and in general supervised us through the whole STEP training in Blacksburg.

c) 6 hrs with Mr. Steve Talley of the Canaan Valley Institute for training us in facilitating group processes and improving skills for helping community groups analyze, discuss, and work through issues.

d) 5 hrs with Mr. Dana Raines, Project WET training for understanding basics of a watershed and gaining knowledge and skills for teaching about water and watersheds.

e) 4 hrs with Mr. Blake Ross, VT Biological Systems Engineering Dept., for training in using in Farm-a-Syst to assess potential threats to homeowners’ groundwater quality.

f) 3 hrs with Professor Tamim Younos, Virginia Water Resources Research Center, training about basic groundwater issues in Virginia and the science of groundwater.

g) 4 hrs with Mr. Ray De Leon, Mr. Jason Anderson, and Ms. Jane Walker from the Virginia Water Resources Research Center, training on using GPS Units and carrying out a streamwalk assessment.

h) 2 hrs with Mr. Lawrence Hoffmann and Ms. Brit Richey at Olver Laboratories for a tour and information on certified labs.

i) 41 hrs with Mr. Brad Stallard at the Health Department for Guest River Watershed, for a tour of the watershed, working with us to explain sewage disposal systems and practices in VA, providing guidance on straight pipe survey questionnaire design, use of GPS and carrying out initial surveys.

j) 1.5 hrs with Mr. Joe and Mr. Edison of the DMME who gave us a tour of coal camps in the area and use of GPS for marking locations on streams contaminated with fecal coliform bacteria.

k) 8 Hrs with Mr. Alan Raflo for an on-site visit and for mid-summer training for STEP interns in Blacksburg.


l) 3 hrs with Ms. Trina Mastran, Southeast Regional Community Assistance Project (SERCAP) who informed us on the SERCAP Program for assisting rural communities.

m) 1 hr with Mr. David Mudd who advised us on report writing and other skills during the mid-summer STEP training in Blacksburg.

n) 1 hr with Dr. Madeline Schreiber who informed us on various sources of groundwater pollution during the mid-summer STEP training in Blacksburg.

Field Supplies:

a) Gloves for water sampling: 2 pr. x $7 = $14 b) Hip waders used during STEP training: 2 pr. x $40 = $80 c) SOS Kit = $40 d) Water Kit Box : 2 x $ 6 = $12 e) Trimble GPS unit by the Health Department = $4500

Books:

a) Clean water Act: 2 x $20 = $40 b) Project Wet: 2 x $10 = $20 c) Farm- A-Syst: 2 x $ 10 = $20 d) SOS Book and Bug card: 2 x $ 6.5 = $13 e) QA/QC Manual: 2 x $5 = $10

Mileage:

a) Use of Virginia Tech van during STEP Training: $170 b) Use of State Car: $740/ 9wks x 5 + 300 miles/wk x 5 x $0.345 = $928.50

Office supplies:

a) Office space Health Department: 8 days: 45sq feet x $1.25/30 x 8= $15

b) Office space VT Natural History Museum for STEP Training: 9 days: 9 x $150 = $1350

c) Computer Access: 6.5 days x $25 = $162.50 d) Printouts, 20 pages at the Health Department: 20 x $0.10 = $2 e) Brochures given by the Health Department for survey information packet for Guest River

Watershed: 400 x $1 = $400 Miscellaneous:

a) Lab services, Virginia Tech: analysis of water samples: 4 x $30 = $120 b) Videos used during STEP training: 6 x $15 = $90 c) Snacks Provided, Alan Raflo, STEP Training: 1 x $ 20= $20 d) First Aid Course, Health Center, Virginia Tech: 2 x $15 = $30 e) Lunch provided by Jack Kennedy, Court House: 2 x $8 = $16

Total In Kind received $13,717


Appendixes Appendix 1: Contents of the homeowner information packet

a) Notice of Visitation* b) Sewage Disposal Contact Information Sheet* c) Self-addressed, stamped, survey* d) Guest River Watershed Group brochure e) Adopt a Stream brochure f) Guest River Watershed Fact Sheet g) Septic Systems and Alternative Wastewater Treatment Systems Fact Sheet h) Guest River Watershed Restoration Project Annual Report Card i) Placemat designed by a youth and the Lonesome Pine Soil and Water Conservation District j) Upper Tennessee River Watershed Strategic Plan

* Denotes materials that the STEP interns created or compiled and that are included as a separate appendix (following).


Appendix 2: Press Release announcing Sewage Disposal Survey in the Guest River

Notice of Survey in the Guest River Watershed Lonesome Pine Soil and Water Conservation District (LPSWCD) and Guest River Restoration

Project (GRRP) in conjunction with Virginia Tech and Wise County Health Department are

conducting a survey of on-site sewage disposal systems. This survey will be conducted beginning

June 20, 2001 and ending in the fall of 2001. Two Virginia Tech STEP (Service Training for

Environmental Progress) interns affiliated with the Virginia Water Resources Research Center

(VWRRC) will be initiating the survey.

In 1996 water quality sampling was conducted by the TVA (member of the GRRP). These tests

indicated that fecal coliform bacteria levels were high in the Guest River. The GRRP then applied for

a water quality improvement fund grant from Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation to

assist homeowners in repairing failing systems or eliminating straight pipes. This project has been

conducted on a cost-share basis, i.e. the grant pays 75% and the homeowner pays 25% of the total

cost. This survey will assist the LPSWCD and GRRP in securing future grant funding.

Citizens are encouraged to participate in this voluntary survey.

For more information on the survey, pleas contact Lonesome Pine SWCD: 926-6621 or Wise County

Health Department: 328-8000.


Appendix 3: Notice of Visitation

Dear Homeowner, We are sorry we missed you! We are Virginia Tech students conducting a homeowner survey about sewage disposal systems in the Guest River watershed. We are talking to everyone living on the Guest River to see if communities are having sewage or wastewater problems. A cost-share septic tank program benefited many homeowners in this area last year. We are collecting information to determine if there is still a need for monetary assistance to homeowners. Inside, you will find a survey with a return address. We would greatly appreciate it if you could take the a few minutes to answer the survey and send it in to us. Thank you for your participation! This survey has the potential to benefit you and your community! For questions call: Wise County Health Department (540) 328-8000 Lonesome Pine SWCD (540) 926-6621

LOVE YOUR GUEST


Appendix 4: Sewage Disposal Contact Information sheet

Sewage Disposal Contact Information

For more information on sewage disposal methods and financial assistance programs, please contact the following agencies. Lonesome Pine Water and Soil Conservation District 540.926.6621

Wise County Department of Health 540.328.8000

Rural Area Development Association (RADA) 540.328.6800

Council of Community Services 1.800.230.6977

Southeastern Rural Community Assistance Program 540.345.1184

Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation 540.676.5529


Appendix 5: Survey included in the packets for homeowners to complete

Homeowner Survey Questionnaire Sewage Disposal Systems in Guest River watershed June 20- Sept 20 Introduction: We are students from Virginia Tech and we are talking to homeowners living on the Guest River to see if communities are having sewage or wastewater problems. We are doing this in order to determine if additional assistance is needed for homeowners in the region. A cost-share septic tank program benefited many homeowners in this area last year. We are collecting information to determine if the need for monetary assistance to homeowners is still present. If you can spare a few minutes, we would appreciate it if you would answer these questions and send the survey to the Lonesome Pine SWCD.(address on the survey) Thank you for your participation! Your Name: Home Address: 6) Which of the following would best describe the type of sewage disposal system

serving your home? a. Don’t know b. Septic tank/ drainfield c. Direct discharge line to the stream d. Public Sewer line

7) If a septic tank/ drainfield serves your home, is all wastewater (washing machine,

kitchen sink, bathtub, etc.) plumbed to the tank? If not, where does it go? a. Don’t know b. Yes c. No:

Homeowner Survey Questionnaire 1) Approximately how old is the septic tank/ drainfield system? a. 0-5 years b. 5-10 years c. 10-15 years d. 15-20 years e. 20+ years 2) Is the septic tank/ drainfield system functioning properly? a. Don’t Know b. Yes c. No 3) Are you having any problems with your septic tank/ drainfield system? a. bad odor b. wet ground in the backyard c. back up of wastewater when it rains d. smelly dark water in the yard e. other: 4) When was the last time you had your tank pumped? a. 0-2 years ago b. 3-5 years ago c. 6-10 years ago d. 10+ years ago 5) Would you be willing to participate in a program to correct your home’s

wastewater problems, if you have any? a. Yes b. No


Appendix 6: Survey for Surveyor to complete

Homeowner Survey Questionnaire Sewage Disposal Systems in Guest River watershed

June 20- Sept 20

Questionnaire # _____ Date: ___________

Interviewer (s): _________________________________ Introduction: We are students from Virginia Tech and we are talking to homeowners l iving on the Guest River to see if communities are having sewage or wastewater problems. We are doing this in order to determine if additional assistance is needed for homeowners in the region. A cost-share septic tank program benefited many homeowners in this area last year. We are collecting information to determine if the need for monetary assistance to homeowners is still present. If you can spare a few minutes, we would appreciate it if you would answer these questions for us. Interviewee: Available Unavailable Refusal Interviewee is the homeowner: Yes No Homeowner Name: Home Address: 13) Which of the following would best describe the type of sewage disposal system

serving your home? e. Don’t know f. Septic tank/ drainfield g. Direct discharge line to the stream h. Public Sewer line

14) If a septic tank/ drainfield serves your home, is all wastewater (washing machine,

kitchen sink, bathtub, etc.) plumbed to the tank? If not, where does it go? d. Don’t know e. Yes f. No:

8) Approximately how old is the septic tank/ drainfield system? f. 0-5 years g. 5-10 years h. 10-15 years i. 15-20 years j. 20+ years 9) Is the septic tank/ drainfield system functioning properly? d. Don’t Know e. Yes f. No 10) Are you having any problems with your septic tank/ drainfield system? f. bad odor g. wet ground in the backyard h. back up of wastewater when it rains i. smelly dark water in the yard j. other: 11) When was the last time you had your tank pumped? e. 0-2 years ago f. 3-5 years ago g. 6-10 years ago h. 10+ years ago 12) Would you be willing to participate in a program to correct your home’s

wastewater problems, if you have any? c. Yes d. No

TO BE DETERMINED BY THE INTERVIEWER Is the home within 50 feet of a stream? __________ Is the drainfield within 50 ft of a stream? ____________ Notes/ Remarks of the interviewer:


Appendix 7: User Guide for Sewage Disposal System Surveyors

User Guide for Sewage Disposal System Surveyors This is a brief overview of how to use Microsoft Access and this particular database for the Sewage Disposal Survey. Good luck and happy surveying! Surveying techniques: 1. Approach the house by the front door, unless the side door is off the driveway. 2. Do not walk across the lawn unless the front door does not have a path leading up to it. 3. When you get to a house, make sure there is no dog by opening and closing your door, then waiting a few minutes to see if it comes for the car. Use your judgment on overall safety in a similar manner. 4. Do not block people’s driveways when you aren’t visiting their home. Park in a central area and walk to homes nearby if there is an out-of-the-way spot to park in. Also make sure you aren’t being unsafe by having your car too far away in case of a dog attack. 5. Try to put people at ease! Remember half the job of surveying is to raise awareness for proper sewage disposal methods and people are more receptive if they aren’t on the defensive. Overview of the Database: This database is in Microsoft Access. The first step is to open it up by going to the Start Toolbar, Programs , and finding Microsoft Access. To open the database: Click on File – Open – Desktop – Sewage Disposal Survey The database will come up on the vertical toolbar on the left-hand side of the window. I will call this the sidebar. To open the survey for data entry: Click on Forms then double-click on Data Entry. This brings up the Survey right in Access where you will enter the data from your door-to-door surveys. Type in Questionnaire # in the available field. Move the cursor to Homeowner Last Name and enter that information. Make sure you move the cursor with the mouse – the TAB won’t work after completing the Address and Name Fields . Fill out the rest of the Questionnaire by clicking on appropriate dots. You may only click on one of them per answer, accept the Problems with Septic Tank, you may choose multiple answers. The comment box under Problems with Septic Tank is for any comments under that question. The large comment box to the right is for any comments, issues or observations you have as a surveyor. This is where you list reasons for not surveying the house: loose dog, unsafe conditions, etc. Also list if there are suspicious pipes, odors or anything the homeowner tells you about their system. Phone numbers should also be put here if people give them to you for the Health Dept or LPSWCD to call.


When you are finished filling out the survey for the homeowner, hit the ADD RECORD button under the large comments box. It will save the survey and automatically bring up the next one for you to add data into. Continue entering your data into the survey format. Don’t forget to periodically save your updated data by going into File – Save. To access data logged in: Click on Tables on the sidebar. Double click on SP_Survey or GPSData, depending on which you want to look at. These give you your results of data up to that point. To create a query: Click on Query in the sidebar. Click Create query in Design view. Click on SP_Survey, then Open. (If you want to incorporate GPS Data points also open that table.) Then close out that little window. In the small window that says SP_Survey double click on the fields you’re interested in querying. For example to find out which homes have straight pipes you have surveyed: Double click:

Questionnaire # HomeownerLast HomeownerFirst AddressStreet Home/NotHome SewerType Each of these should be listed as a column. Under Criteria on the query, leave Questionnaire #, HomeownerLast, HomeownerFirst, and AddressStreet empty. Under Home/NotHome type in [=1] to get all surveys of people who were at home. Under SewerType put [=2] to find all straight pipes. Go to Query – Run. This is the query on straight pipes! Ok, now there is a system to why you type in [=1] or [=2] or [>=3]… When we created the database we put a numerical value on each answer. They correspond to the survey in access. All the “did not answer” spots have a rank of 0. The rest of the questions start at 1 for the first answer and run through however many answers there are. For example: under the question Age of Septic Tank,

0-5 =1 5-10 =2 10-15 =3 15-20 =4 20+ =5

Did not answer =0 So when you go into Query to find all Tanks older than 10 years, type in Criteria section: [>=3]. To create a report: Click on Reports on the sidebar, then Create report by using Wizard.


When in the Report Wizard; under Tables/Queries, choose which Query you want to report on. Then choose the fields you want to use - usually all of them (click double arrow key: 2nd down from the top). If you want a confidential report omit the Address and Name fields. When finished, hit Next. The next few questions it asks you are not necessary to change. However you can if you want to. For most reports, it won’t be necessary to change anything as the database is set up in a standard format. You can just go through and hit the Finish key. If you do want to change the fields, the groupings, and sorting sections will place some fields before others if that is particular to your report. Otherwise you don’t need to change them. Hit Next. Tabular is the simplest and compact report format to read. It will automatically do it in this field. Pick a report format type (corporate is nice). Hit Next. Type a name for the report and preview then hit Finish. You should be able to view your report. If it doesn’t look as it should, go back and review your choices. Often if something isn’t right in the query it’ll show up here. These are helpful to do when you have comments or specific information to highlight. SAVE everything several times throughout the process in order to avoid a melt-down. They are not fun.

GPS points When entering the GPS points, you may find it easier to enter them manually. Write them down when you get them in the field on the survey and put them directly into the database when you are doing your data entry. You can import them from Pathfinder software the GPS unit uses, however this is at the Health Dept and may be more difficult than actually doing it by hand. Judge this for yourself; if you have a lot of points, it may be more feasible to import the points.


Appendix 8: User Guide for creating a Microsoft Access database

User Guide for developing an Access Database

What is a database?

A database is a system, which allows you to organize and reorganize information, and retrieve information for various purposes and in different forms.

What is a relational database? A relational database system allows you to store related data in separate tables. By defining relationships between the tables you can formulate queries. With queries you can store and retrieve information in a more meaningful manner. This provides for better analysis while incorporating a medium for the presentation of data in the form of reports.

Why Microsoft Access? Access is a relational database management system. It allows users to link up tables; unlike excel, to run queries on multiple tables at the same time. Tables are linked through a common column that is known as the primary key. The primary key appears in all tables, while other information in the tables is different. It thus allows the user to manipulate and analyze data more efficiently. The four main elements of Access are:

o Tables are used for data storage.

o Forms can be used for entering and viewing data on the screen. Forms can be designed to resemble an actual, survey format. This provides a useful medium for inputting large volumes of data.

o Queries can be used for extracting specific information from the data (asking questions)

o Reports can be used for printing query results.

Note: Data can be transferred from pathfinder (GPS unit) to Access. The data can then be exported to Excel and FrontPage, which can be used as a data collection mechanism for data enabled web pages (in case you plan to put the survey or survey results on the web).

Method for building an Access Database Creating a Table 1. Start Microsoft Access. 2. Go to File and then select New, click on the Database icon and then click OK since you are going

to create a new database. 3. Choose a filename such as SewageDisposalSurvey and a location (D drive or Desktop) where you

want to save the database and click Create. An empty database is created which you will fashion according to your own needs. .

4. Create Table in Design view. We need to start from scratch rather than adopting the sample templates, which are available in wizard.

Note: Data can be entered in both tables and forms but creating a table before graduating to a form is useful.


5. Press the Design Option. You will see a table -like feature, which will allow you to design the survey once you input what you want to see in the survey, e.g.- Homeowner’s Last Name, Availability, etc. Essentially this is the step where you will convert your paper survey to digital format for storage and analysis of data.

6. Go to Column, the one that says Field Name. Depending on the survey questions, type out the various options in the first Column that is the Field Column- such as Questionnaire Number, Homeowner Last name/Homeowner First name and so on.

7. The Second column classifies the fields further. With this you decide the nature of data you want to input or the data attributes. This allows you to classify whether your data is a “Text” type (e.g.-address) or “Number” type. Number type is especially useful when you want to analyze statistics. For example, we have used code numbers like 0,1,2 here for categories of questions like Homeowner Available/ Not available so that they can be analyzed easily later). Scroll down in the column and choose the appropriate option.

8. Now appoint one of the keys as the Primary key, which is a unique key that is be used to link two tables- here the Primary key is Questionnaire #.

9. Save this table. Here we have used SP_Survey as the filename. 10. We need to create a separate table for GPS readings because data is being transported through

GPS Pathfinder. Thus as described above, create a small table named GPSData with field Names such as Questionnaire # (which is the Primary key), Lat (number) and Long (number).

11. If you want to delete a field, you must also delete the field from forms, queries, and reports. Similarly, if you rename a field, it must also be changed in other tables, forms, queries, and reports. To delete a field, click on the field selector (the first column to the left) and press Delete. Alternatively, you can select Edit | Delete Rows from the Menu bar.

Using Query to link up the two tables created above Now that you have created the tables you might be required to bring the information in both the tables together or retrieving a set of records from one of the tables. Thus identify and define the relationships you want. Once you get the relationships built, you can create queries from one or several tables. 1. Here you can link up the two tables by doing a Query (after the lat long data is collected). Go to

Query Option, select design View and then choose the two tables you want to link. You will see all the fields of the two tables in the form of scroll bar from where you can see the fields you want to display.

2. An arrow will link the primary keys. If not, first link the Primary keys by an arrow and then physically choose each field you want to appear in the combined table (we want all of them) by double clicking on them. This will combine both the tables together and you do not need to manually enter the Lat/Long data in the Database. A new table will be created and you can give it a name and save it (call it SP survey). For more information on queries refer to User Guide for Surveyors.


Creating a Form Forms will allow you to enter data much more easily as one can enter and view one survey field (record) at a time. Forms are more aesthetically pleasing than spreadsheets. Most of the forms usually correspond to the tables. Thus data entered in a form is automatically saved to a table. As mentioned earlier it is useful to design the table before designing the forms for data-entry. 1. Go to Forms option and click on New. You will see a variety of options for creating the form and

choice of the table that you want to link to the form. 2. Now select Design View and the table called SP survey, which you just created and click OK.

We are going to create a form from scratch rather than using the Wizard. 3. Now you will see an empty form and the fields you need on the Form for inputting data in the

form of a scroll bar off to the side. One can easily drag and drop these fields in the Form. They can be positioned anywhere on the form by clicking on them (black handle -like features appear). Drag the handles to position the fields so that the form closely resembles the paper survey format.

4. Other design options are also available for designing the Form such as the Text Box. You need the Toolbar to design the form-which also appears automatically when you open the form. Use various tools like text box, or the box option for questions with multiple choices. For example in the case of Age of Tank, we have five possible answers- 0-5, 5-10, 10-15, 15-20, 20+. Go over to the toolbar and drag and drop the box option. Now type in the options given above. Name the field as “septic tank age” to correspond with the table SP Survey. You can also use the drag and drop function from the scroll bar, which is used in Step 16 in combination with design options.

A useful sites you can refer to when you need help is: What is Microsoft Access: http://staff.washington.edu/~larsson/conf/aiha98/primer/whatis.htm Good luck with your database creation!


Appendix 9: Charts of Homeowner Survey Results Table 1: Percentage of homeowner septic tanks related to age

0 20 40 60 80 100

Percent of homeowners

age 0-5

age 5-10

age 10-15

age 15-20

age 20+

Ag

e in

yea

rs

Age of Septic tank

Table 2: Percentage of Homeowners Available at the time of Survey

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

Per

cent

age

PercentHomewoners

Available

PercentHomeowners not

available

Percent Refusals

Available Homeowners


Table 3: Types of sewage disposal systems in percentages

Types of Sewage Disposal Systems

Public Sewer Lines 0%

Straight Pipes 1%

Did Not Answer 73%

Septic Tank 26%

Don’t know 0%

Table 4: Percentage of gray water to homeowner septic tank

0 20 40 60 80 100

Percent of Homeowners

Did not answer

Gray water to tank

Gray water not to tank

Don’t know

Gray water To Tank


Table 5: Percentage of septic tanks pumped related to years

0 20 40 60 80 100

Percent of Homeowners

Did not answer

3-5 years

10+ years

Tim

e in

Yea

rs

Septic tank pumped Last

Watershed Improvement and Community Outreach Programs for the Upper Powell River Project

Wise County, Va.

Hands Across the Mountain, Inc.

Final Report 16 July – 10 August 2001

Office of Surface Mining and Service Training for Environmental Progress Graduate

Interns Erica Clark, Masters Urban and Regional Planning

Asmita Bhardwaj, Masters Urban and Regional Planning Virginia Tech

“Upper Powell Watershed,” Bhardwaj and Clark, Wise Co., 2001 1

Table of Contents

Executive Summary 2 Description of Service 2 Accomplishments 2 Background on Hands Across the Mountain, Inc. 3 Results and Realizations Original Intent 6 Methodology 7 Changes in the Goals and Objectives 8 Project Partners 9 Advice Advice to future Interns 10 Advice to Hands Across the Mountain, Inc. 11 Advice to OSM 12 Status Report: Results 13 Final In-Kind Report 17 Appendixes

Appendix 1: Southwest Virginia TMDL Fact Sheet 19 Appendix 2: Water Quality Baseline Report 21 Appendix 3: Streamwalk Assessment User-Guide 42 * All maps referred to in this report will be found on a data CD included accompanying the original copy of the report (kept by the STEP program).


Executive Summary Sponsoring Agency: Hands Across the Mountain Supervisor: Sandra B. Riggs Agency Contact: 414 Kilbourne Ave Appalachia, Virginia Tel (540) 523.8243 Fax (540) 523. [email protected] http://teched.vt.edu/StudentWebSites/HandsAcrossMtnWells/ Interns: Erica Clark Asmita Bhardwaj 300 Penn St #2 1202 Snyder Lane 1400C Blacksburg, VA 24060 Blacksburg, VA 24060 Tel (540) 961-3162 Tel (540) 552-2662 [email protected] [email protected] Description of Service The preliminary two weeks were spent in training to fulfill the requirements of the STEP internship. We worked for the Guest River Restoration Group June 11-July 13, 2001. On July 16 we began work for Hands Across the Mountain, Inc. (hereafter denoted as ‘Hands’). The Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy provided a base location for us as well as the technical equipment we needed to complete our projects. These projects consisted of mapping watershed improvement sites utilizing a Global Positioning System (GPS), creating a database for this information, adapting a streamwalk assessment database for hand-held computers for schoolchildren and Hands volunteers, and updating documents outlining the chemical, biological, and visual assessments of the Upper Powell River watershed. Accomplishments The following are accomplishments completed while working with Hands. Ø created a database in Microsoft Access, Microsoft Excel, and ArcView for biological,

chemical, and visual assessments of the Upper Powell watershed; incorporating the watershed improvement points located using GPS;

Ø created a TMDL fact sheet for public education; Ø adapted a database using CyberTracker software for schoolchildren in 4th-7th grades and for

Hands volunteers to complete streamwalk assessments using palm-held computers and GPS units;

Ø created a user-guide for the volunteers and teachers outlining this database; Ø visited mines and acid mine drainage sites located in the Upper Powell watershed for our

own education; Ø successfully mapped watershed improvement sites using a Trimble DDC1 GPS unit.


Background on Hands Across the Mountain, Inc. The headwaters of the Powell River lie in the steep slopes of the Appalachian plateau. The Powell spans Wise and Lee Counties and flows westwards into the Clinch River, which becomes a part of the Upper Tennessee River Basin. Running through cities, agricultural fields and the rural areas of Virginia and Kentucky, the Powell contains an amazing amount of biodiversity. The Powell, along with the Clinch, has been declared by the Nature Conservancy as “a region with the highest number of globally imperiled and vulnerable freshwater species in the United States" (Nature Conservancy, 1998).

The Upper Powell Watershed includes portions of the city of Norton, the towns of Appalachia and Big Stone Gap, and a number of coal camps. Water quality in the Upper Powell has been impacted by a number of human activities such as logging, coal mining and domestic wastewater discharge, thus increasing sediment, bacteria, and other chemical pollutants in the water. In 1998, the Powell River, along with the Powell tributaries; Callahan Creek and Black creek, were placed on the Clean Water Act’s 303d, impaired waters list. Benthic macro invertebrates were listed as the parameter of concern (Virginia Department of Environmental Quality).

Hands Across the Mountain, Inc, is a civic organization that was initiated in 1998. Located in the coalfields of southern Kentucky and southwestern Virginia, Hands represents a collaborative partnership between citizens of these two coal-mining regions to enhance economic growth and improve environmental quality. Improvement of water quality in the Upper Powell Watershed is a key goal of Hands.

Hands Across The Mountain, Inc, is currently working on four different projects in the Black Mountain region:

1. Adopt a Highway 2. Gear Up 3. Overlook/ Park/ Linkage 4. Upper Powell River Watershed

We will be looking at the Upper Powell River Watershed project. The goal of the Upper Powell River Watershed Project is to reduce non-point source pollution in the Upper Powell River and its tributaries. The Powell River and its tributary, Callahan Creek, have been placed on the list of impaired streams —the so-called 303d list of the Clean Water Act. The 303d list of Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) reports the cause for impairment as benthic for Callahan Creek and fecal coliform bacteria in the Powell River. Benthic impairment implies that the number and diversity of benthic macro invertebrates in these streams are below the standard that should be present in a healthy stream (see Note 1 for more details). Impairment for fecal coliform bacteria implies that the concentration of this bacterium is above the state prescribed standards. Fecal coliform bacteria are normally found in the intestines of humans and often enter streams due to improper household waste systems. Benthic impairment could be due to any number of causes. To establish a better understanding of the possible contamination sources, we need to examine human activities common to this coal-mining region and the impact they have on the water bodies. Two main human activities that could be the leading causes of benthic impairment in the Upper Powell can be immediately pointed out:

1. Sewage contamination from septic tanks and straight piping, and trash dumping near the river.


2. Acid mine drainage (AMD) from abandoned mine lands and other wastes from mining operations.

Communities in and around the coal region traditionally pump their wastewater straight into the river. Community wastewater systems do not exist in many areas outside of towns. It is only recently that septic tanks have begun to be installed for many rural homes and areas have been hooked to a public drinking water supply. Lack of awareness and education about proper sewage disposal still abound. Thus, failing septic tanks, straight piping and lack of proper sewage disposal systems in the coal mining areas are the leading reasons for sewage contamination in the Upper Powell. According to information from Hands, a large number of illegal trash dumpsites are located in the Upper Powell Watershed, which add to the pollution in the river. These are the issues that Hands seeks to address in its efforts towards environmental cleanup in this watershed.

Hands is also beginning to address AMD through reclamation of an abandoned mine site. Unfortunately mine land reclamation takes a great deal of money and time to accomplish. Hands partners with the Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy (DMME), which allows DMME to oversee the mine land reclamation process. This allows Hands to focus on eliminating sewage contamination.

Hands has already made significant achievements in watershed improvement since its incorporation. They have acted on four fronts in order to address the problem of poor water quality in the watershed.

1. Watershed Education and Outreach

Enhancing awareness and educating people about watershed issues in the larger community is a priority for Hands. This will ultimately result in the development and implementation of a comprehensive strategic watershed plan. This plan will include specific recommended solutions tailored to improving the water quality of the Upper Powell River Watershed. In terms of immediately measurable results, a watershed information and volunteer center has been created in the town of Appalachia.

The 2000 Hands intern developed an inventive watershed presentation. This has been exhibited in schools throughout the Appalachian region, imparting watershed education to students.

To further the cause of environmental education, streamwalk assessment software has been developed for primary school students that will allow them to conduct a visual assessment of watershed conditions. The database provides the children with an opportunity to gain an appreciation of problems in the watershed. The database will also be used for Hand’s volunteers to monitor water quality, which will be tracked and used as an assessment of Hand’s progress in water quality improvements.

Additional information such as maps of watershed improvements, and a water quality baseline report will be accessible at the Hands office. These map layers will also be available on the database maintained by the Wise County courthouse.

2. Septic Tank Pump out Program

Hands Across the Mountain subsidized sewage disposal repair and installation to interested homeowners. The pump out of 125 septic tanks and repair or installation of 11 others, has been very successful. Hands Across the Mountain contributed 75 percent of the cost with funding provided by Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation, while the landowner paid the remaining 25 percent. The program was managed by the Wise County Health Department, who solicited and accepted the applications from the landowners.


3. Cleanup of Illegal Dumps

The Wise County Clean Team, in cooperation with Hands Across the Mountain, Wise County, and the Appalachia Clean Team worked together to clean up seven illegal dumpsites in the Upper Powell River Watershed.

4. Monitoring

Data on chemical and biological parameters from various monitoring stations located in the Upper Powell Watershed are currently available from TVA, DMME, DEQ, and other organizations. All of this information has been compiled under one umbrella and analyzed both quantitatively and spatially to set up a water quality baseline. Monitoring will be carried out at the same stations year after year to benchmark the progress made towards watershed improvement.


Results and Realizations ORIGINAL INTENT The initial goals and objectives for Hands are as follows:

Goal l: Update the Powell River water quality database by locating and mapping watershed improvements and AMD sites using GPS units. Objectives:

1. Define survey area. 2. Define Daily Activity schedule. 3. Combine information and data from TVA, DEQ and DMME to create a common database for

baseline water quality data in the Upper Powell River Watershed. 4. Interns conduct mapping of Upper Powell River watershed improvement sites. 5. Input field data and correct GPS field data daily. 6. Using a base map of the Watershed prepared by the Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals

and Energy and GPS units used to gather location data, prepare overlays to depict the locations of water quality improvements implemented in FY2000 within the Watershed, including: 125 septic tanks, 20+ straight pipe elimination projects, AML reclamation projects, stream stabilizations, and 7 illegal dump cleanups conducted during FY2000.

7. Evaluate benthos samples in the Callahan Creek (P17 hydrologic unit), fecal coliform on the Powell River (P17 hydrologic unit), and benthos samples on the North Fork of the Powell River (P20 hydrologic unit). These three bodies of water are currently on the impaired waters list established by the EPA and specifically should be monitored for water quality changes and improvements.

Goal 2: Update the existing watershed education and public outreach packet. Objectives:

1. Familiarize interns with the existing information package developed by Kim Porter, Joel Gorder and others.

2. Collect additional data and relevant information from TVA, DMME and DCR. 3. Using the watershed improvement data, establish a baseline that will provide a comparison

point for the progress of septic tank pump out, straight pipe eliminations, illegal dump cleanups, and mine sedimentation reduction programs that have been established in the Watershed.

4. Incorporate this information into a format useful for student and citizen education, to evaluate and compare the health of the Powell River and some of its tributaries.

Goal 3: Develop a module for a streamwalk assessment based on EPA guidelines. Objectives:

1. Study the EPA guidelines and other relevant information for streamwalk assessment. 2. Familiarize interns with Palm Pilot, GPS and other research software necessary to carry out

the assessment. 3. Develop a working plan/module to carry out the streamwalk assessment.


4. Familiarize a teacher with the module and necessary guidelines to carry out the above for a class of 4th to 7th graders.

METHODOLOGY Goal 1: Update the Powell River water quality database by locating and mapping watershed

improvements and AMD sites using GPS units. Objective 1: Define survey area. Method: We spoke with several people in the pursuit of a base map of the Upper Powell Watershed region. Everyone was very cooperative, however, actually getting this map in a form we could manipulate and use proved to be a challenge. Objective 2: Define Daily Activity Schedule. Method: Each Thursday we developed the Daily Activity Schedule for the upcoming week. Objectives 3—6:

3. Combine information and data from TVA, DEQ and DMME to create a common database for baseline water quality data in the Upper Powell River Watershed.

4. Interns conduct mapping of Upper Powell River watershed improvement sites. 5. Input field data and correct GPS field data daily. 6. Using a base map of the Watershed prepared by the Virginia Department of Mines,

Minerals and Energy and GPS units used to gather location data, prepare overlays to depict the locations of water quality improvements implemented in FY2000 within the Watershed, including: 125 septic tanks, 20+ straight pipe elimination projects, AML reclamation projects, stream stabilizations, and 7 illegal dump cleanups conducted during FY2000.

Method: We conducted a comprehensive search for digital maps. We spoke with a number of people at TVA, DMME, LENOWISCO, and Lonesome Pine SWCD and searched Internet sites in order to locate maps of the watersheds we needed. LENOWISCO had a version that located streams and streets on which we could plot our points. We then received training in how to use the GPS from DMME personnel. Goal 2: Update the existing watershed education and public outreach packet. Objectives 1—4:

1. Familiarize interns with the existing information package developed by Kim Porter, Joel Gorder and others.

2. Collect additional data and relevant information from TVA, DMME and DCR. 3. Using the watershed improvement data, establish a baseline that will provide a comparison

point for the progress of septic tank pump out, straight pipe eliminations, illegal dump cleanups, and mine sedimentation reduction programs that have been established in the Watershed.

4. Incorporate this information into a format useful for student and citizen education, to evaluate and compare the health of the Powell River and some of its tributaries.

Method: A comprehensive search for information was conducted via Internet, personal contacts and reference books in order accumulate data about water quality monitoring. From here we used Kim Porter’s, a student at Virginia Tech, and Joel Gorder’s, the 2000 Hands STEP intern, information as


the basis for the baseline water quality report. Kim sent us the data she used to develop her report, which was invaluable in creating the final baseline. Additional information was added, as well as up-to-date data pertaining to the chemical and biological water quality. The report was then written in a readable format with the general public and funding organizations being the target audiences (see Appendix 2). A TMDL fact sheet specific to southwest Virginia was also created for public education (see Appendix 1). Goal 3: Develop a module for a streamwalk assessment based on EPA guidelines. Objectives 1—4:

1. Study the EPA guidelines and other relevant information for streamwalk assessment. 2. Familiarize interns with Palm Pilot, GPS and other research software necessary to carry out

the assessment. 3. Develop a working plan/module to carry out the streamwalk assessment. 4. Familiarize a teacher with the module and necessary guidelines to carry out the above for a

class of 4th to 7th graders. We will be testing the Palm Pilot for use as a GPS unit with a database and software in order to provide information to Hands Across the Mountains and grade school teachers.

Method: The EPA guidelines were reviewed and I spoke with Jason Anderson, a graduate student at Virginia Tech, about using the streamwalk assessment database he is in the process of developing. This database is almost exactly what we needed for the model. He provided invaluable advice as well as all the software information and the database itself for us to use and adapt to suit our needs. The database was adapted for children and field-tested with both children and adults out by the Upper Powell River. A user-guide was developed for teachers and for Hands volunteers describing how to use the database to monitor streams in the watershed (see Appendix 3). CHANGES IN THE GOALS AND OBJECTIVES We have omitted Goal 1, Objective 7 of our original goals and objectives from the Methodology and Status Report: Results sections. We will not be evaluating benthos samples in the Upper Powell Watershed but will be expanding an existing report and incorporating some additional data into it. This activity fits more appropriately under all the objectives in Goal 2 and is redundant to repeat this objective. Another change in the goals and objectives is the addition to Goal 3, Objective 4, as viewed in the Methodology and Status Report: Results, which states:

“We will be testing the Palm Pilot for use as a GPS unit with a database and software in order to provide information to Hands Across the Mountain, Inc. and grade school teachers.” This clarifies our roll in the development of this database and that we are not creating lesson plans for the teachers. Rather, we are providing a working system for the teachers and instructing them on its use so they in turn can develop a lesson plan incorporating VSL guidelines for their students.


PROJECT PARTNERS The following is a list of Project Partners for Hands. Black Diamond RC&D Mountain Empire Older Citizens, Inc. (MEOC) Virginia Water Resources Research Center Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy (DMME) Office of Surface Mining (OSM) LENOWISCO Planning Commission (LENOWISCO) Wise-Norton Health Department University of Virginia's College at Wise (UVA Wise) Wise County Public Schools Wise County Clean Team Appalachia Clean Team Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA) Virginia Department of Conservation and Recreation (DCR) Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) Coeburn-Norton-Wise Wastewater Authority Town of Appalachia Town of Big Stone Gap Appalachia Cultural Arts Council, Inc. (ACAC) Appalachia Special Projects Committee Appalachia Lion's Club Appalachia Rescue Squad Citizen Volunteers


Advice to Future Interns

1. GPS is a very useful tool and we appreciate the time DMME has taken to train us in how to use their Trimble unit and then allow us to use it in the field. All the technology here is a great tool. Take advantage of both that and the skilled professionals when they are available to you.

2. If you are going to visit homes, send out a letter to the homeowner as soon as possible to notify them you will be visiting and what you will be doing.

3. Having access to a state car is ideal. 4. If you are not provided with a cell phone and you have your own, carry it with you in case

you need to get in touch with someone or for emergencies. 5. Be aware of your surroundings while you are in the field or driving. Dogs and trains abound

in this area and neither gives much warning when you are out in the field.


Advice to Hands Across the Mountain, Inc.

1. Having an outline of goals and objectives for the summer before starting work is a great idea. 2. The flexibility of the work hours and independence afforded to us was very much

appreciated. I believe this allowed us to pursue ideas and leads on the projects we are working on. The CyberTracker database certainly would not have been developed without the support from Sandy to pursue contacts in Blacksburg and spend some time up there working on it.

3. One of the great benefits this summer was being able to have contact with the Guest River Group as well as Hands throughout the summer.

4. The technology support was great. We appreciated having access to the computers, GPS units, and everything else at DMME and the Cultural Arts Center. It definitely made our job possible and easier.

5. Hands is well organized and Sandy is on top of everything. We appreciated this knowledge of the area and how all the projects work together.

6. It would have been helpful if training times had been pre-arranged with DMME staff before we began work there. We ran into scheduling conflicts and could not be trained in the GPS use until the beginning of our third week. This left us with only 2 possible days for taking locations where we could have used a couple weeks.

The folks at DMME were also excellent to work with and opened up their busy schedules to advise us on whatever we needed at the time. Technologically, a more advanced site could not be found. This gave us ample opportunity to create the maps and use their equipment to take the points we needed to develop our reports for Hands. They set us up at a work station and spent a great deal of time and effort seeing to it that we had everything we needed to get our work done while giving us opportunities to learn about mining, hydrology, GPS and the people in the region. Hands was an excellent host; giving us an opportunity to explore watershed management based on mutual respect and a desire to improve the watershed quality in the area. I can’t say enough good things about this organization and look forward to keeping in touch with Sandy in the future.


Advice to OSM

1. The final report does not provide much attention on the background of the work being done. Incorporating this section would be useful as it may help obtain a better a picture of the area and the role of the interns.

2. Feedback on our projects and reports at some point in the summer would be very helpful. 3. A trip to the OSM headquarters and meeting with some of the key people would have been

useful for us to better understand the role OSM plays. 4. We spent a minimum of 8 hours a week on reports. If it is possible to decrease the amount of

reporting on activities, this would be beneficial to all partners involved as it takes away time better spent on the activities we are here to carry out.

5. The sample reports provided a useful guideline for documentation. The guidelines for the in-kind report are particularly useful since it can be very critical to small non-profit organizations and watershed groups.

6. The Brownfield seminar originally planned for July 25 in Southwest Virginia would have been very informational and interesting to us in this region. This is an excellent idea and we were sorry to hear of the circumstances causing it to be canceled.


Status Report: Results Training Goal and Objectives: Goal 1: To help students develop understanding of the complexity and importance of water resources and learn skills that helps them respond to that complexity and importance and to enable students to help citizens and community groups get non-partisan, reliable, and low-cost information about local water quality and how to protect it through a 15-day training session at Blacksburg. Objective 1: “Understand the activities of the Water Center and being a STEP/ Water Center Intern.”

Mr. Raflo introduced us to the various facets of the Water Center, the publications and resources available through the Water Center. We received toolboxes, which are sets of publications, etc. to help with our work and the SOS kit. We learned about what being a STEP intern means and the basic safety rules for working in natural environments at Blacksburg. Objective 2: “Learn general safety measures for both land and water.”

We learned the basics of being able to administer basic first aid and to be safe around a water body and save a person from drowning in water. We did not really use the latter part but it was good to know; especially during the summer camp when we were sampling water in streams with children aged 10-14. We used the general safety measures on thunderstorms when we were caught in a big thunderstorm while we were in Wise County. Objective 3: “To be able to work knowledgeably and professionally with any given Virginia -certified lab and be familiar with procedures for chemical and bacteriological analysis of water.”

We learned what different types of certification mean and the nature of facilities provided by a lab. We toured Olver Laboratories in Blacksburg, providing us with an example of where the community members can get water monitoring lab work done.

Objective 4: “To be able to carry out water sampling and impart the techniques to others.”

We learned procedures for sampling water for chemical or bacteriological analysis. Objective 5: “To be able to conduct SOS biological monitoring.”

We conducted the SOS water sampling method for rocky-bottom streams and learned the role that citizens could play in SOS stream monitoring in Virginia. Objective 6: “To be able to gain knowledge and skills for teaching about water and watersheds.”

We learned the basics of watershed concepts and models available to demonstrate these concepts. We were educated on the use of creative exercises for demonstrating the importance of a watershed and the impacts of human activities on a watershed. Objective 7: “To be able to carry out stream corridor Assessment and use of GPS.”

We learned methods for assessing physical characteristics of stream corridors and the use of global positioning system units. Objective 8: “To be able to learn about Farm-a-Syst/Home-a-Syst , an assessment system which will help us identify and assess potential threats to homeowners’ groundwater quality.”

We learned about a simple assessment system to analyze homeowners’ groundwater quality. We often found this useful, as certain homeowners we surveyed for straight pipes had private wells for drinking water.


Objective 9: “To learn about communities found in Virginia, identify some of the social and cultural challenges students may face in their internship communities and develop summer internship work plans.”

We got a peek into the communities from the site supervisors and were able to etch out our summer work plans. The community picture was fleshed out better when we started working with the members of the community. Objective 10: “To be able to learn about the Clean Water Act Overview and Quality assurance/Quality control (QA/QC) Plan Development Overview.”

Through group presentations we were able to learn about these. We used the Clean Water act terminology extensively while communicating with the site supervisors and other people. Objective 11: “Learn about basic STEP Procedures.”

We were able to learn about the procedure for filling wage sheets, mileage sheets for the Water center and procedures for making OSM reports etc. that we used during the summer. Hands’ Goals and Objectives: Goal 1: Update the Powell River water quality database by locating and mapping watershed improvements and AMD sites using GPS units. Objective 1: “Define survey area.” After a great deal of searching, we found a base map with stream and street layers. There is not a lot of information on the watersheds available to each organization and locating which agency has what information was a challenge. Surprisingly, this challenge was a benefit as channels of communication between agencies opened and they shared data and information that was previously not known outside of that group. Objective 2: “Define daily activity schedule.” We outlined our activities for the coming week on Thursdays. This worked well. It outlined how we could accomplish our goals in a timely manner and provided an agenda of our activities so Sandy was aware of our activities in the field. Objective 3: “Combine information and data from TVA, DEQ and DMME to create a common database for baseline water quality data in the Upper Powell River Watershed.” An extensive search for information via the Internet, personal interviews, and resource books resulted in a great deal of information that was assimilated into the report (Appendix 2 of this report). It is a comprehensive overview of the impaired waterways in the Upper Powell River watershed and describes the chemical, biological, and visual monitoring and testing that should be done to evaluate the status of the waterways. We used Kim Porter’s initial water quality report as the base and expanded it to include additional information gathered. We submitted this report as a ‘work in progress’ (please see Appendix 2). The Water Center intends to consider it for possible publication as a Special Report. Objective 4: “Interns conduct mapping of Upper Powell River watershed improvement sites.” Clayton Wiles trained us in the use of the DMME GPS unit and we then mapped 12 sites in the few days we had available. Unfortunately, time became a crucial constraint as projects kept


running into temporary roadblocks and Clayton was extremely busy with his work. Thus we did not get as early a start on mapping the sites as we initially intended. Objective 5: “Input field data and correct GPS field data daily.” Each morning before heading out for fieldwork, the previous day’s data was downloaded from the GPS to the desktop. The data was corrected and then added to the digital map we developed. Objective 6: “Using a base map of the Watershed prepared by the Virginia Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy and GPS units used to gather location data, prepare overlays to depict the locations of water quality improvements implemented in FY2000 within the Watershed, including: 125 septic tanks, 20+ straight pipe elimination projects, AML reclamation projects, stream stabilizations, and 7 illegal dump cleanups conducted during FY2000.” After a great deal of searching and speaking with people, we finally located a usable map and layers from the LENOWISCO Planning District Commission. The improvement sites were plotted on the map. Unfortunately, due to a lack of time, we were not able to map all the sites. It is our hope that volunteers or another intern can complete this task in the future. These watershed improvements will serve as the baseline for future monitoring of the Upper Powell watershed and were included in the baseline water quality report. They will also serve as a layer on the map being developed by the Wise County Circuit Court’s office as well. Goal 2: Update the existing watershed education and public outreach packet. Objective 1: “Familiarize interns with the existing information package developed by Kim Porter, Joel Gorder and others.” (The information package is available from Hands.) Sandy gave us a folder with all the information from Kim and Joel, which we used in doing our report. This information included chemical analysis of sampling stations in the Upper Powell Watershed. We also looked at Joel’s Power Point presentation on watershed education. Kim sent us her data, which was a tremendous asset to our baseline water quality report. Objective 2: “Collect additional data and relevant information from TVA, DMME, and DCR.” This corresponds with Goal 1, Objective 3. We did an extensive search for information as outlined above, as well as for TMDL information. Objective 3: “Using the watershed improvement data, establish a baseline that will provide a comparison point for the progress of septic tank pump out, straight pipe eliminations, illegal dump cleanups, and mine sedimentation reduction programs that have been established in the Watershed.” This objective corresponds with Goal 1, Objective 6. The GIS maps we created will serve as a visual illustration of the baseline report that was updated. These maps will provide an easy-to-view, functional overview of the watershed and how the monitoring locations contribute to the assessment of the water quality. Objective 4: “Incorporate this information into a format useful for student and citizen education, to evaluate and compare the health of the Powell River and some of its tributaries.” The report and GIS overlays provide a format for citizens and students alike. In addition to the baseline water quality report, a Southwest Virginia TMDL Fact Sheet (Appendix 1) was created outlining the basics of what a TMDL is and its role specific to southwestern Virginia. This will be used for education purposes and to incite public interest in improving water quality in their communities. Goal 3: Develop a module for a streamwalk assessment based on EPA guidelines.


Objective 1: “Study the EPA guidelines and other relevant information for streamwalk assessment.” The EPA Volunteer Streamwalk Assessment Handbook proved very useful for this project. The guidelines demonstrated the ways in which streamwalks are conventionally conducted; this gave us an idea of how it could also be done using the Palm Pilot hand-held computers. Objective 2: “Familiarize interns with Palm Pilot, GPS, and other research software necessary to carry out the assessment.” Hands lent us Palm Pilot hand-held computers that they had received from a grant, which we used with a GPS unit in order to learn how it would all work together. Sandy purchased a connector cable for the GPS and Palm computer. This allowed for tests to be conducted on the hardware in order to work on the software adaptation. After research on what systems would work best, we determined that a basic, easy-to-use GPS unit is best for the children and volunteers. Objective 3: “Develop a working plan/module to carry out the streamwalk assessment.” (Please see Appendix 3) Instead of creating our own module for the streamwalk assessment, we enlisted the help of a fellow Virginia Tech graduate student, Jason Anderson, who has been developing a streamwalk-assessment protocol using a Palm computer and GPS unit. Jason is using software and equipment geared toward nonprofit groups and small organizations for whom cost is a major consideration. He has also written the program specifically so that volunteers with little science background can monitor streams successfully and easily. Jason’s research corresponded well with this project and he was a constant source of information and help in the adaptation of this database. The database was adapted to be more suitable for a primary school child to use. Because 4th—7th graders will carry out the streamwalk assessments, descriptions were made simpler and icons were added for increased comprehension. Our hope is that the children will be able to monitor the stream adjacent to the school and be able to use the database successfully. Objective 4: “Familiarize a teacher with the module and necessary guidelines to carry out the above for a class of 4th—7th graders. We will be testing the Palm Pilot for use as a GPS unit with a database and software in order to provide information to Hands and grade school teachers.” A user guide was created to explain the database to the elementary school teacher who will be using these units. This guide will also be available to watershed volunteers working with Hands who will be conducting water-quality monitoring. Field tests were conducted with 4th—7th grade children and

adults. The field tests were successful and the databases worked well.


Final “In Kind” Report

Covering Dates: 16 July – 10 August 2001 Communication: Copies: 80 copies x $0.05 = $4.00

a) 50 = miscellaneous reports/surveys for Hands at DMME

Telephone Calls: 40 calls x $1.00 = $40.00

a) 15 calls for coordination of Hands projects and information requests at DMME. Services: Supervision and training: 174 hrs x $37/hr = $ 6438

a) 3 hrs with Ms. Julie Jordan, Scientist, VT Biol. Systems Engineering Dept. for demonstration of the methods for analyzing water samples.

b) 70 hrs with Mr. Alan Raflo, STEP coordinator who trained us on SOS Biological Monitoring, Water Sampling Practices, supervised preparation and meeting with Site Supervisors, guided students through presentations of the Quality assurance control (QA/QC) Plan Development Overview and Clean Water Act, and in general supervised us through the whole STEP training in Blacksburg.

c) 6 hrs with Mr. Steve Talley of the Canaan Valley Institute for training us in facilitating group processes and improving skills for helping community groups analyze, discuss, and work through issues.

d) 5 hrs with Mr. Dana Raines for Project WET training for understanding basics of a watershed and gaining knowledge and skills for teaching about water and watersheds.

e) 4 hrs with Mr. Blake Ross, of Virginia Tech Biological Systems Engineering Department, for training in using in Farm-a-Syst, to be assess potential threats to homeowners’ groundwater quality.

f) 3 hrs with Professor Tamim Younos, Virginia Water Resources Research Center, for training about basic groundwater issues in VA and the science of groundwater.

g) 4 hrs with Mr. Ray De Leon, Mr. Jason Anderson, Ms. Jane Walker, Virginia Water Resources Research Center, for training on using GPS Units and carrying out Streamwalk Assessment using a Protocol modified at Virginia Tech.

h) 2 hrs with Mr. Lawrence Hoffmann and Ms. Brit Richey, Olver Laboratories of Blacksburg, for a tour and information certified labs and demonstration of the labs activities rela ted to chemical and bacteriological analysis of water.

i) 8 Hrs with Mr. Alan Raflo for on-site visit and midsummer training for STEP interns in Blacksburg.

j) 3 hrs with Ms. Trina Mastran who informed us on the SERCAP Program for assisting rural communities during the Midsummer STEP training in Blacksburg.

k) 1 hrs with Mr. David Mudd who advised us on report writing and other skills during the midsummer STEP training in Blacksburg.

l) 1 hrs with Dr. Madeline Schreiber, Virginia Tech Department of Geological Sciences, who informed us on various sources of groundwater pollution during the midsummer STEP training in Blacksburg.

m) 15 hrs Mr. Richard Davis at DMME for tour of AMD sites, mines, Powell River Project.


n) 12 hrs Mr. Clayton Giles at DMME information on GIS applications and DMME overview. Also GPS training in the field and with software.

o) 8 hrs Mr. Harve Mooney at DMME, technical support at DMME. p) 15 hrs Mr. Jason Anderson at Virginia Tech, graduate student, creator of streamwalk

assessment database. q) 2 hrs Mr. Steve Gibson, LENOWISCO GIS technician, for digital maps. r) 1 hr Mr. Skip Skinner, LENOWISCO planner, for field-testing database. s) 4 hrs Mr. Alan Raflo, STEP supervisor for final evaluation and closing meeting. t) 1 hr Ms. BB Walker, Appalachia primary school teacher, for field-testing database. u) 4 hrs Mr. Scotty Cox, DMME drafting technician, for technical support. v) 2 hrs Mr. Daniel Kestner, DMME drafting technician, for technical support.

Field Supplies:

a) Gloves for water sampling: 2 pr. x $7 = $14 b) Hip waders used during STEP training: 2 pr. x $40 = $80 c) SOS Kit: 1 x $40= $40 d) Water Kit Box: 2 x $ 6 = $12 e) Trimble GPS unit by DMME = $5,000 f) pH Water Test Kit= $100 g) Iron Water Test Kit= $100

Books:

a) Clean water Act: 2 x $20 = $40 b) Project Wet: 2 x $10 = $20 c) Farm-A-Syst: 2 x $ 10 = $20 d) SOS Book and Bug card: 2 x $ 6.5 = $13 e) QA/QC Manual: 2 x $5 = $10 f) Getting to Know ArcView: 1 x $60= $60

Mileage:

a) Use of Virginia Tech van during STEP Training: $170 b) Use of State Car: $720/ 9wks x 4 + 250 miles/wk x 4 x $0.345 = $665

Office supplies:

a) Office space VT Natural History Museum for STEP Training: 9 days: 9 x $150 = $1350

b) Office space DMME: 20 days: 45sq feet x $1.25/30 x 20= $1125 c) Computer Access: 20 days x $25 = $500 d) Printouts, 340 pages at DMME: 340 x $0.10 = $34 e) CDs for maps, final reports, other data: 10 x $1.50= $15 f) Toshiba laptop computer: 1 x $2000= $2000

Miscellaneous:

a) Lab services, Virginia Tech: analysis of water samples: 4 x $30 = $120 b) Videos used during STEP training: 6 x $15 = $90 c) Snacks Provided, Alan Raflo, STEP Training: 1 x $ 20= $20 d) First Aid Course, Health Center, Virginia Tech: 2 x $15 = $30

Total In Kind received $18,110


Appendix 1: Southwest Virginia TMDL Fact Sheet

What is a TMDL? A total maximum daily load (TMDL) is the amount of a pollutant a body of water can receive and still meet state water quality standards. A TMDL is a calculation estimating pollutant sources and the amount of the pollutant discharged from a specific source in a waterway. A report is then generated on this specific TMDL describing the amount of the pollutant the waterway can support and still meet water quality standards. Why do we need TMDLs? Federal law requires TMDL identification and monitoring. Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act requires all states to develop a water quality plan implementing TMDLs. This plan has three steps:

1) Identify all waterways that don’t meet the state water quality standards. 2) Prioritize which of these waterways is most severely polluted. 3) Develop a TMDL for each pollutant in each of these waterways identified.

What does ‘Impaired’ mean? Virginia has identified rivers, streams and lakes throughout the state that do not meet the state water quality standards. These waterways are referred to as “impaired” when they do not meet the state water quality standards. There are many reasons for a river or stream to be impaired. Impairments common to Wise County are: acid mine drainage, typically represented by high levels of iron and low water pH; benthic, which is a lack of certain aquatic life and often indicative of poor aquatic health; and fecal coliform bacteria from sewage waste. Where does the pollution come from? Until a couple of decades ago, we were accustomed to thinking that most pollution came from industries and factories. These are called “point sources”, which means we know the exact location where the pollutant enters the waterway. Today, we now know that only about 10% of waterway pollution comes directly from point sources. Approximately 43% comes from “non-point sources” while the remaining 47% results from a combination of the two.1 In Virginia, common sources for pollutants are:

1) failing septic systems (household waste) 2) leaking underground storage tanks 3) acid mine drainage & resource extraction 4) direct piping household wastes to waterways 5) agricultural (cropland and livestock) 6) urban (construction and run-off from parking lots) 7) logging (skid trails and timber harvesting too close to streams)

Who is responsible for TMDLs? The task of identifying, monitoring, and developing TMDLs rests with several state agencies. The Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) is the lead agency for the TMDLs. They rank the impaired rivers based primarily on water quality monitoring data attained from their monitoring programs. Severity of the waterways’ impairment and what the waterway is used for, (i.e., recreation, market shellfish/fish production, drinking source) also contribute to where the river is placed on the priority list.

1 Source EPA TMDL Program: http://www.epa.gov/owow/tmdl/tptmdl/


The following table shows several streams in Wise County that are impaired and the reasons for it.2 Waterway Impairment Potential Source

Callahan Creek Benthic Resource extraction Urban waste

Powell River Fecal coliform bacteria Urban waste Black Creek and tributaries Benthic Resource extraction

Acid Mine Drainage North Fork of Powell River Benthic Urban waste Guest River Fecal coliform bacteria

Benthic Urban waste Resource extraction

What can I do? Unfortunately, the TMDL process is costly and labor intensive. However, You (citizens) also have a stake in improving the quality of Virginia’s waterways. The following are ways in which you can get involved in cleaning-up your rivers, lakes, and streams.

1) Participate in public forums on TMDLs. 2) Join a local watershed group or form your own if there isn’t one. 3) Speak with your friends and neighbors about the condition of the waterways in your area. 4) Monitor the waterways in your area and report any problems to DEQ or your local

Conservation District. What does the future hold for water quality in Virginia? There is much still to be done for waterways in Virginia. Of course the overall goal is to remove all waterways from the impaired 303(d) list. In order for this to happen, one of two things must happen:

1) The pollutant originally causing the waterway’s impairment attains the water quality standard.

2) EPA approves the TMDL report and the water quality standards are met. For most impaired streams and rivers in Wise County, the TMDL process will take several years, even decades. There is not enough agency manpower or money to cover the costs of developing TMDLs in all of Virginia’s waterways. The best chance of ensuring waterways in your area are clean is by taking an active role in the process. For further information about Virginia TMDLs and what you can do, contact the following watershed organizations and state and federal agencies:

2 Source EPA TMDL Program for Virginia: http://www.epa.gov/owow/tmdl/states/va.html

Wise County Watershed Groups Guest River Watershed Group www.geocities.com/guestriver/ 540.926.2660 Hands Across the Mountain, Inc. www.teched.vt.edu/StudentWebSites/HandsAcrossMtnWells/ 540.523.0958 State Virginia Water Resources Research Center www.vwrrc.vt.edu/central/virginia 540.231.5624 Department of Environmental Quality www.deq.state.va.us/water 540.676.4800 Department of Conservation and Recreation www.dcr.state.va.us/sw 540.676.5529 Virginia Department of Health www.vdh.state.va.us/owp 540.328.8000 Department of Mines, Minerals, & Energy www.mme.state.va.us/Dmr/home.dmr. 540.523.8100 Federal

Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) www.epa.gov.owow/tmdl


Appendix 2: Water Quality Baseline Report Draft Report: 9 August 2001 [No changes by STEP as of 9/21/01]

WATER QUALITY BASELINE

FOR THE UPPER POWELL RIVER WATERSHED

WISE COUNTY, VIRGINIA


Why Monitor?

The Powell River and its tributary Callahan Creek have been placed on the list of impaired streams (the 303-d list of the Clean Water Act). The 303-d list compiled by the Virginia Department of Environmental Quality (Virginia DEQ) reports the cause for impairment as benthic for Callahan Creek and fecal coliform in Powell River. Benthic impairment implies that the number and diversity of benthic macro invertebrates or aquatic insects) in these streams are below the standard that should be present in a healthy stream. On the other hand, impairment for fecal coliform implies that a higher concentration of fecal coliform bacteria (which is normally found in the intestines of humans and lands up in streams due to sewage contamination), much above the state prescribed standards is present in the river. While it is clear that the fecal coliform impairment is due to sewage contamination, the benthic impairment of the Callahan could be due to any number of causes. For this we need to look at the human activities that have occurred in this coal-mining region over a period of time and the impact they have on the water bodies. Two main human activities that could be the leading causes of benthic impairment in the Callahan can be immediately pointed out:

3. Sewage contamination from septic tanks, straight piping, trash dumping by local communities and

4. Acid mine drainage from abandoned mine lands, sediments and other wastes from mining operations.

Communities in and round the coal region especially cool camp communities have traditionally piped their wastewater straight into the river. Community wastewater systems did not exist in many areas outside of the towns. Only recently have septic tanks been installed in many rural homes and areas have been hooked to a public drinking water supply. Lack of awareness about proper sewage disposal still remains a problem. Thus, it is reasonable to conclude that failing septic tanks, straight pipes, and lack of proper sewage disposal systems in the coal mining areas are the leading reasons for sewage contamination in the Upper Powell. A large number of illegal trash dumpsites are located in the Upper Powell Watershed, which adds to the pollution in the river (Hands Across the Mountain, 2000). The Powell River and its tributaries form the drinking water source for many areas in the watershed including large urban areas like Big Stone Gap and Pennington Gap. Rivers and streams in the watershed are useful for other purposes such as irrigation as well. Presence of contaminants such as fecal coliform in the water can be dangerous to the health of humans and other organisms that use this water or live in this water. The Powell River is also important for the biodiversity it harbors. According to the US Fish and Wildlife Service, as many as 37 species of mussels live in the Powell River, including six species that are currently on the endangered list (EPA, 1998). Conradilla caelata, the Bird Wing Pearly Mussel, once placed on the endangered list, through recovery programs has survived and inhabits the waters of the Powell River in Tennessee and Virginia (US Fish and Wildlife, 1999). Though the Powell is able to support a number of endangered species at present, coal mining and human impacts have taken a toll on the aquatic life that thrives in the Powell River. Two fish species, the Yellowfin Madtom and the Slender Chub, once found in the headwaters of the Powell, have become extinct from there and are now found only in down stream waters in Tennessee. The Powell River is also important for the biodiversity it harbors. As many as 37 species of mussels live in the Powell River, including six species that are currently on the endangered list according to the US Fish and Wildlife Service (EPA, 1998). The Conradilla Caelata or the bird wing pearly mussel was placed on the endangered list, but through recovery programs it has survived and inhabits


the waters of the Powell River in Tennessee and Virginia (US Fish and Wildlife, 1999). Though the Powell is able to support a number of endangered species at present, coal mining and human impacts have taken a toll on the aquatic life that thrives in the Powell. Two fish species, the Yellowfin Madtom (Noturus flavipinnis) and the Slender Chub (Erimystax cahni), once found in the headwaters of the Powell, have become extinct from there and are now found only downstream in Tennessee. Thus actions are needed to improve the water quality in the Powell River so that it can support both use by humans and the aquatic life within it. In order to improve the water quality of these streams and make them fit for designated uses Hands across the Mountain along with its parameters has been carrying out watershed improvements like straight pipe elimination, septic tank pump outs etc. In order to monitor their progress a “baseline” of water-quality conditions is necessary. This baseline of water-quality conditions will serve three goals:

1. An educational outreach material for citizens and volunteers. 2. A starting point for monitoring improvements in water quality. 3. Information to assist grant writing for funding further watershed improvements at the

community and individual level in Upper Powell River Watershed. What is the Upper Powell River Watershed The headwaters of the Powell lie in steep slopes of the Appalachian Plateau in Virginia. The Powell spans Wise and Lee Counties and flows southwest into the Clinch River, which later becomes a part of the Upper Tennessee River. The Upper Powell River is comprised of 10 tributaries, the most important ones being the Callahan Creek, the Roaring Fork, Pigeon Creek and Preacher Creek (see Map 1). Pigeon Creek, Mud Lick Creek and Preacher Creek flow into the Callahan Creek, which joins the Upper Powell River. Roaring Fork flows straight into the Powell. Seven coal camps surrounding the town of Appalachia are located on these tributaries while Appalachia itself is located on the main body of the Powell River in the Upper Powell Watershed. The town of Big Stone Gap is located on the South Fork of Powell River. As seen on the map, Callahan Creek flows through the coal camps Roda and Stonega and through Andover, which is a railroad community before reaching Appalachia. Preacher Creek flows through Derby to the Callahan Creek, while the Pigeon Creek flows through Exeter and Imboden to the Upper Powell below Appalachia. Mud Lick Creek flows through the coal camps Osaka and Roda before joining the Callahan. Roadmap of the report Now that we have a larger picture of the watershed and the major problems it is facing, we will first describe and explain a list of criteria or parameters that are regularly measured. Second, we will present the standards commonly used by the Va. DEQ and certain national level agencies in reference to these water quality parameters. Thirds, we will list some resources and monitoring stations, which we will use to reflect on the changes in water quality from time to time. Fourth, we will present an inventory of all the water quality data we have on the chosen water quality parameters, the given locations, and the time and agency, which collected them. Fifth, we present results of samples in the form of charts and tables taken at the monitoring locations based on the above parameters, and 2. This is an analysis of the results in comparison to state and national water quality standards. Finally, we present a conclusion and recommendations on the future plan of action.


What criteria are indicative of Stream Health and should be monitored regularly? Three main kinds of data are generally used for stream sampling and assessing stream health”

o Biological: the living organisms in the stream o Chemical: the non living matter in the stream already present within or added from outside o Physical: the surroundings of the stream

Biological Condition: The presence and diversity of living organisms in a stream indicates the health of the stream. Biological monitoring is the study of organisms that live in the streams. The biological organisms sampled usually are benthic macro invertebrates. Benthic macro invertebrates are small aquatic organisms, which are visible to the naked eye and are found on and under rocks, inhabiting the various nooks and crannies of the streambed. Midges, stoneflies, worms, snails, and clams are example of benthic macro invertebrates. Many kinds are present—either as immature forms or as adults--in the streambed year-round (that is, they do not move in and out of areas as fish can). As a result, they are most affected by pollution. Macroinvertebrate species differ in their levels of tolerance to pollution. Hence the presence/ absence of these animals can signal a decline or improvement in stream health. Macro invertebrate sampling is relatively easy and is often performed by watershed volunteer groups. Macro invertebrate surveys according to EPA (source) can be performed at three levels, which differ in their complexity:

o stream biosurvey: o stream habitat walk and o intensive biosurvey

A streamside biosurvey involves collection of around 200 organisms and then sorting and classifying them to some level. Pollution sensitive categories are defined and volunteers identify and place the macro invertebrates in these categories. The higher number of the more pollution sensitive types of organisms indicate that certain pollutants contaminates the river. For example, stoneflies, mayflies are among the least pollution resistant types of macro invertebrates and hence there dominance in the sample collected signifies that the stream is healthy. The streamwalk habitat assessment is a broad assessment of the living conditions available to stream life. Features like dams, trash dumps, and straight pipes can be noted. Macro invertebrate sampling can also be carried out during a habitat walk. An intensive biosurvey is similar to the streamside biosurvey but requires much more technical expertise and in-depth sampling of macro invertebrates. Macro invertebrates need to be classified deeper than the family level in a more scientific manner followed by analyzing the site conditions. For an intensive biosurvey, a reference site with relatively healthy conditions is chosen for comparison to the site being sampled. Macro invertebrates are collected and then sorted according to a number of scientific criteria on both. Important criteria (also called metrics) measured in a typical biosurvey are defined in the table below.


Biosurvey Criteria: 1. Number of taxa: is the total number of distinct types of families of organisms (taxa) present. A

higher number of taxa indicates a good diversity in the benthic community. Higher diversity or more species of organisms signifies good stream health.

2. Number of EPT taxa : This tells you about the total number of organisms in the pollution resistant families (taxa). Three types of aquatic insects are the most susceptible to pollution namely Caddis flies ( Trichoptera), Mayflies (Ephemeroptera) and Stoneflies (Plecoptera).

3. EPT Index: This is the total number of individuals in the Orders Ephemeroptera, Plecoptera and Trichoptera in comparison the total number of individuals in the sample.

4. Modified Hilsenoff Biotic Index (MHBI): Each taxon is assigned a pollution tolerance value, which is used to calculate MHBI. HBI can be calculated by multiply individuals in the each taxon with the sensitive pollution index. The HBI would be less than 2.0 in headwater streams such as the Upper Powell and its tributaries.

5. Percent Dominant Taxon (PDT) or Dominance Percent: is the proportion of individuals in the most dominant family (taxon) relative to the total number of organisms in the sample. The PDT should be less than 20% in headwaters .

Source: EPA, BASINS Chemical Condition: Chemical parameters tell us about the water itself and its constituents. A number of chemical parameters are measured in a water quality-monitoring program: pH, temperature, fecal-coliform bacteria, turbidity, conductivity, phosphorus, nitrates, dissolved oxygen, and biological oxygen demand (explained later). These can be chosen based on the type of pollution problems, which the community might expect to be present. For example, if the potential source of contamination in the stream is mining waste, then the parameters that deserve concern are pH, alkalinity, and total dissolved solids. On the other hand, if the contamination source is suspected to be sewage, a community would want to monitor fecal coliform, dissolved oxygen, biological oxygen demand, nitrates, phosphorus, conductivity, and temperature. In the case of the Powell River Watershed, we know that that the cause listed for impairment is benthic. This means that the number and diversity of the benthic macro invertebrates (defined earlier) is low. The history and knowledge about the environment and economics of the area tells us that mining and straight piping could be the two reasons for this reduced number of organisms. Thus the chemical factors that we need to study are fecal coliform, pH, dissolved oxygen, biological oxygen demand, nitrates, phosphorus, alkalinity, and total dissolved solids, conductivity, and temperature. Let us explain the meaning and importance of each one, followed by the standards prescribed for each by Virginia DEQ and other organizations:

1. Dissolved Oxygen (DO) and Biological oxygen demand: Oxygen dissolved in water is used for respiration by aquatic organisms. When discharge of wastewater containing organic matter from straight pipes, failing septic systems, or runoff from farmland enters the river, microorganisms in the water decompose the organic matter, using oxygen. The amount of oxygen demand of the organisms in water (which break down this waste) is known as Biological Oxygen Demand (BOD). In the process the oxygen available to other aquatic organisms gets lowered. As more waste enters the stream, the microorganisms that break it down multiply, thus increasing the BOD. The basic relationship is this: high BOD can leads to low DO. Low DO can be a hazard to the health of aquatic organisms and lead to benthic impairment. DO needs to be more than 5 and never below 4 mg / L according to Virginia DEQ standards.


2. Temperature: Fish, benthic microorganisms, and other forms of life in the stream require a certain range of temperature to survive. Chemical pollutants entering the stream from wastewater, urban runoffs, and storm water discharges can raise or lower this temperature. If the change continues for a long time, it can lead the residents of the stream to be stress and die. Temperature should always less than 31degree Celsius according to Virginia DEQ standards.

3. Phosphorus: Phosphorus usually occurs in small quantities in streams. This nutrient can enter the streams in much larger quantities from agriculture operations, urban runoffs, failing septic systems, and straight pipe discharges. An increase in the quantity of phosphorus can trigger increased growth of algae. This can lead to a depletion in DO and thus endanger the survival of fish, benthic microorganisms, and other forms of life. Phosphorus is typically difficult to monitor as its present in very low quantities of the order of 0.1 mg/l. No national or state criteria have been established for concentrations of phosphorus in water. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) prescribes that total phosphate should not exceed 0.05 mg/L (as phosphorus) in a stream at a point where it enters a lake or reservoir, and should not exceed 0.1 mg/L in streams that do not discharge directly into lakes or reservoirs (BASINS, Undated).

4. Nitrates and Ammonia: Different forms of nitrogen occur naturally in water such as nitrates and ammonia. Nitrogen in air is converted to nitrates and ammonia. Aquatic organisms obtain this nitrogen by eating these plants or fellow aquatic organisms. As with phosphorus, excess nitrates can lead to growth of algae that compete with other aquatic organisms for dissolved oxygen. In drinking water, excessive nitrates can cause “blue baby syndrome,” where nitrates prevent the baby’s blood from carrying sufficient oxygen. Nitrates are extremely soluble in water (more than phosphorus) and hence they can serve as a good indicator of sewage contamination. Sometimes the polluted water might show low nitrates, in which case ammonia needs to be monitored. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) has established a maximum contaminant level (MCL) of 10 milligram per liter (mg/L) for nitrate as nitrogen (NO3-N) and a MCL of 1 mg/L for nitrite as nitrogen (NO2-N) in drinking water. 5. Fecal Bacteria: Fecal coliform bacteria are normally found in the intestines of humans and certain other animals. These can end up in the river due to sewage contamination or from waste from animals. Their presence indicates that there has been contamination and there might be other pathogenic organisms. In Virginia’s standards for streams, fecal bacteria should be less than 1000 colony forming units (CFU)/ 100 mL in a one-time sample and should not have a geometric mean of more than 200 CFU/ 100mL in samples taken over a period of one month. 6. pH: PH is the measure of hydrogen ions in water--in other words, it is the measure of water’s acidity. Liquids can be acidic, basic (the opposite of acidic) or neutral (neither acidic nor basic). PH measurements range from 1- 14. A pH of 7 means that the liquid is neutral, e.g. pure water. On the other hand, blood is slightly basic, with a pH of 7.5. Gastric juices in our stomach are highly acidic, with a pH of 2. Most aquatic organisms, including benthic organisms, can carry on their normal life processes within a pH range of 6.5-9.0. Hence it’s necessary to maintain an acceptable pH level for aquatic organisms to survive and maintain the diversity of life in the stream. PH changes in water can be caused by sewage contamination, acid mine drainage, and other factors.


7. Total solids: Solid matter is often found suspended or dissolved in water or wastewater. These include particles such as phosphates, iron and manganese. Total dissolved solids (TDS) in the water are particles in water that can pass through a filter with pores the size of 0.002 cm. Sources of total solids include sewage contamination, agricultural and urban runoff etc. This is an indicator of non point source pollution problems associated with various land use practices. If TDS concentrations are too high or too low, the growth of aquatic organisms can be limited and their survival may be endangered. The U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (U.S. EPA) sets a secondary standard of 500 mg/l TDS in drinking water. For comparison, unpolluted rainwater has a TDS approaching 0 mg/L, while seawater contains about 36,000 mg/L (BASINS, Undated). Suspended solids (TSS) include silt, clay, algae and other debris. Large amount of TSS in water may block sunlight and hamper plants from absorbing sunlight and hence lower the DO. There is no standard for measuring TSS.

8. Alkalinity: Alkalinity is often confused with pH. It is however, the capacity of the water to resist a change in pH when. Alkalinity of a stream is the ability of the stream to neutralize acidic inputs, such as might occur from acid mine drainage. Such neutralizing is performed by bases like bicarbonate and carbonates present in water. Waters, which have low alkalinity, face the danger of a change in pH value when pollutants enter the stream. Because alkalinity varies greatly due to differences in geology, there aren’t general standards for alkalinity. But, in general, a total alkalinity level of 100-200 mg/L can be expected to stabilize the pH level in a freshwater stream. If a stream has alkalinity levels below 10 mg/L, the stream is very susceptible to changes in pH from both natural and human sources (BASINS, Undated)

Three other parameters are useful to measure in coal mining areas: 9. Iron: Mine drainage is always accompanied by iron either dissolving or precipitating in the stream into which the drainage goes. Pyrite or marcasite, two rocks associated with coal seams, dissolve in water once the coal seam is disturbed. Iron levels are affected by pH, dissolved oxygen, and the presence of sulfur. Dissolved iron in excess of 300 micro grams per liter can render the water unfit for domestic uses (Domestic Water Supply Standards, Virginia Cooperative Extension Service).

10. Sulfate: Sulfate is present in iron-bearing rocks and gets dissolved in water along with the iron. High concentration of sulfur is found where surface mining is prevalent (US Department of Interior, 1981). Virginia DEQ has prescribed no standard for sulfate measurements. The chemical quality recommendations for the domestic water supplies by Virginia Cooperative Extension Service prescribe a standard of 250 mg/L.

11. Manganese: Manganese is another mineral that is found in this area in the form of deposits beside coal layers. Like iron, manganese dissolves in water and a high concentration of manganese in water can makes water unfit for domestic use. Manganese like iron dissolves in water and a high concentration of manganese in water makes water unfit for domestic use. Manganese concentration should not be found in excess of 0.50 mg per liter (Domestic Water Supply Standards, Virginia Cooperative Extension Service).

Physical Condition: Physical conditions of the watershed can be assessed at a broad level by a watershed survey which tells you about the size of the watershed, the population, the major activities and land uses and their


potential impacts. Such information could be largely available from secondary sources like government records, aerial photographs etc. A more detailed habitat assessment of the stream in question could be carried out to observe pollution sources, water uses, and stream obstructions. Physical conditions are usually monitored before the bio logical or chemical conditions are to be monitored; however, as we already have much chemical and biological data, we have proceeded to establish the water quality baseline without physical-condition data. However since we already have much of this information about the watershed we will not address the physical condition in this water quality baseline report. We will primarily focus on the biological and chemical criteria primarily and hence our database will present a baseline for these criteria. References

1) Volunteer Stream Monitoring: A Methods Manual, USEPA, November 1997 2) Rapid Bioassessment of Benthic Macro invertebrates Illustrates Water Quality in

Small Order Urban Streams in a North Carolina Piedmont City, Kimberly Yandora, http://nwqmc.site.net/98proceedings/Papers/40-YAND.html

3) BASINS, City of Boulder Project, http://bcn.boulder.co.us/basin/watershed/wqterms.html 4) Hydrology of Area 16, Eastern coal province, Virginia and Tennessee, US Department of

Interior, 1981. 5) Water Quality Monitoring - A How To Guide,

http://www.crcwater.org/wqmanual.html 6) Chemical Water Quality Recommendations, Domestic Water Supplies, Virginia

Cooperative Extension Service. Virginia Water Quality Standards The following standards prescribed by the Virginia DEQ and other organizations have been used for preparing a profile of the existing water quality conditions:

1. Fecal Bacteria: - not exceeding a geometric mean of 200 counts per 100 ML for two or more samples over a 30 day period - OR a level of 1000 per 100 ML at any time.

2. Phosphorus: 0.1 mg/L (EPA) 3. Nitrates: 10 mg/L (EPA) 4. Ammonia: 0.0014 micrograms/L 5. Alkalinity: Between 100-200 mg/L(BASINS) 6. Total Dissolved Solids: Less than 500 mg/l TDS 7. PH- 6.0-9.0 8. Maximum temperature (degree Celsius): 31 (any rise in temperature shall not exceed 3

degrees Celsius). 9. Dissolved Oxygen (mg/L): Should be at least a Min avg.- 4, Daily avg. –5 10. Iron: 0.3 mg/L 11. Sulfate: 250 mg/L 12. Manganese: 0.05 mg/L

Where are the monitoring locations? Three government agencies are active in water quality monitoring in the area, namely the Tennessee Valley Authority (TVA), Department of Mines, Minerals and Energy (DMME) and Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ). Monitoring stations have been established at strategic locations


throughout the watershed. Besides these agencies, Hands Across the Mountain (“ Hands”), which had excellent local knowledge of the watershed has used it resources to get water sampling done at locations where it thought appropriate. 6 monitoring points by TVA have been established at the following locations:

1. Powell River above Appalachia 2. Roaring Fork (North Fork of Powell River) 3. Powell River Below Appalachia 4. South Fork of Powell at Big Stone Gap 5. Callahan Creek at Powell River 6. Pigeon Creek below Imboden

One permanent reference point is maintained by the Virginia DEQ near the South Fork of Powell River near Big Stone Gap (common with the TVA site). DMME has a number of in-stream monitoring stations, which can be seen on Map1 (the points are recognized by their MPID numbers in the DMME monitoring database). Some monitoring has been done by Hands at locations above and below many of the coal camps for chemical parameters. Hands has also done chemical and biological monitoring on Preacher Creek near Derby above Appalachia . Map 1 shows the locations of all the monitoring sites. Inventory of Data available for the Baseline at present Sampling location Name

Date of sampling

Nature of sampling

Parameters considered Sampling authority

Powell River above Appalachia

July- Aug, 2000 June- July, 2001

Chemical Fecal Coliform TVA

Roaring Fork


Chemical

Fecal Coliform TVA

Roaring Fork (MPID

Chemical Total ammonia, Total Nitrate, PH, Total Phosphorus, Calcium Carbonate, Dissolved Oxygen, Temperature

DMME

Powell River Below Appalachia

July- Aug, 2000 June- 20 July, 2001


South Fork of Powell


Chemical Fecal Coliform

TVA

SF of Powell River, Big Stone Gap

Feb 1995 to December 1998

Chemical Total ammonia, Total Nitrate, PH, Total Phosphorus, Calcium Carbonate, Dissolved Oxygen, Temperature

DEQ

Pigeon Creek July- Aug, 2000 June-July, 2001


Callahan Creek

25July- 16 Aug, 2000



5 June- 20 July, 2001

Callahan Creek December 1995 Biological Macro invertebrates TVA Midstream Stonega Callahan Creek June 26, 2001

Chemical Fecal Coliform Hands

Downstream Stonega , Callahan Creek June 26, 2001


Upstream Roda, Callahan Creek June 26, 2001


Downstream Roda, Callahan Creek June 26, 2001


Downstream Osaka, Mudlick Creek June 26, 2001


Mudlick Creek June 1997- Sept 1998

Chemical pH, Iron, Sulfate, Manganese, total dissolved solids, temperature,

DMME

Upstream Derby, Preacher Creek June 26, 2001


Downstream Derby, Preacher Creek June 26, 2001


WS1-5, Preacher Creek, Derby August 23,

2000

Chemical Fecal Coliform, Total Coliform, acidity, alkalinity, pH, Iron, Sulfate, Manganese, total dissolved solids, total Suspended solids

Hands

AS1-3, Preacher Creek, Derby

August 23, 2000

Biological Macro invertebrates Hands

Summary of Status of Monitored Creeks in Upper Powell River Watershed Callahan Creek: Sampling for fecal coliform was carried out in the months of July and August in 2000 and then again in June and July 2001. Results are plotted in the graphs below.

Concentration of Fecal Coliform in Callahan Creek (2001)

605

940

400

5 20 5

340400

60 40

1000

200

58.38

0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

6/5/01

6/7/01

6/8/01

6/11/0

1

6/12/0

1

6/13/0

1

6/14/0

1

6/15/0

1

6/18/0

1

6/19/0

1

6/20/0

1

Geom

etric M

ean

Standard

(GM of

200)

Standard

(1000 )

Co

ncen

trati

on

(co

lon

ies/ 100m

L)

Concentration of Fecal Coliform in Callahan Creek (2000)

40

950

20

12040

1000

200

81.74

0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

7/25/0

0

7/26/0

0

7/27/0

0

7/31/0

08/1

/008/2

/008/3

/00 8/4/0

0

8/16/0

0

Geom

etric M

ean

Standard

(GM of

200)

Standard

(1000)

Co

nc

en

tra

tio

n (

Co

lon

ies

/ 1

00

mL

)


As can be seen by a comparison of the concentration graphs for 2000 and 2001, the fecal coliform concentration in Callahan Creek has increased over the past year, with a positive reading being recorded every time a sample was taken in year 2000 unlike in the year 2000. The geometric mean gives a slightly misleading picture. Callahan Creek near the Coal Camps Readings for fecal coliform were taken on July 26, 2001at various locations upstream and downstream in the coal camps (Stonega, Roda, Imboden Derby, Osaka and Andover). It was assumed that a better picture of sewage contamination of the Callahan Creek would emerge if sampling were done just next to the major coal camp communities. Taking readings near the coal camps would not allow time for dilution of water contaminated with fecal coliform to take place and hence would give a better indication of the critical condition of pollution in Callahan Creek. The results of the sampling proved our point. Bacteria concentrations as high as 160,000 were recorded in the stream below Stonega. Note: Results of fecal coliform sampling for other coal camps can be found in the description of the respective creeks they are located on. Biological Sampling in Callahan Creek Biological Sampling of macro invertebrates was carried out in Callahan Creek in 1995. The following results were obtained: INTENSIVE STREAM BIOSURVEY RESULTS (BASED ON EPA RB PROTOCOL METRICS)

Parameter Results Observed Results Reference

Relative Difference (%)

Taxa Richness 10 18 55.06

Modified Family Biotic Index (MFBI) 5.07 4.51 88.95

Dominant Family Chironomid Elmidae

Dominance % 23.70% 29.9 NA

EPT Index 6 7 85.71

Concentration of Fecal Coliform in Callahan Creek near Stonega and Andover (2001)

160,000

600 1300 3001000 1000 1000 10000

20,000

40,000

60,000

80,000

100,000

120,000

140,000

160,000

180,000

Upstream Stonega(somewhere midstream)

Downstream Stonega Upstream Andover Downstream Andover

Locations

Conc

entra

tion

(col

onie

s/ 1

00 m

L)

Concentration (Number/100 mL) VA WQ Standard (Number/100 ML)


Based on the above criteria, Callahan Creek was classified as moderately impaired. As seen from the table above, the diversity of species at Callahan was much lesser than the reference station, the MFBI was higher (as mentioned earlier this should be low), though dominance of a particular species of aquatic insects was not that high. Other parameters (see table below) observed were within standards but inching close to the limits. OTHER PARAMETER RESULTS STANDARD

Water temperature 4 Below 31 degree Celsius

DO 14.6 100-200 mg/L

pH 8.1 6.5-9

Pigeon Creek

The graphs clearly show that the fecal coliform concentration has risen dramatically over the past year. The situation in 2001 appears to be critical as 5 readings over a month’s period showed values as high as 4000, way above the standard of 1000. This confirms the 2000-testing conclusion (when a single reading on August 4th showed a value of 10000) that Pigeon creek is heavily polluted. A project funded by Southeast Regional Community Assistance, National Small Flows Clearinghouse at West Virginia University and a number of other agencies is currently underway for onsite sewage treatment in Imboden coal camp. This project is expected to take care of the straight pipes that currently discharge raw sewage in a ditch, which flows into the Pigeon Creek (Sandy Riggs, 2001). Chemical parameters such as pH, temperature, etc. were also measured on Pigeon Creek by DMME at MPID 3415. The results are as follows:

Concentration of fecal coliform in Pigeon Creek below Imboden (2000)

240 70670

5 5 5 40

10000

460 1000200357.03

0

2000

4000

6000

8000

10000

12000

7/25

/00

7/26

/00

7/27

/00

7/31

/00

8/1/

00

8/2/

00

8/3/

00

8/4

/00

8/16

/00

Geo

met

ric M

ean

Sta

ndar

d (G

M o

f 200

)S

tand

ard

(100

0 )

Co

nc

en

tra

tio

n (

co

lon

ies

/ 1

00

mL

)

Concentration of Fecal Coliform in Pigeon Creek below

Imboden (2001)

1805

1100

5

2480

4000

320

4000

5

1000

200267.55400

4000

0

500

1000

1500

2000

2500

3000

3500

4000

4500

6/5/01

6/7/01

6/8/01

6/11/0

1

6/12/0

1

6/13/0

1

6/14/0

1

6/15/0

1

6/18/0

1

6/19/0

1

6/20/0

1

Geometric

Mean

Stand

ard (G

M of 20

0 )

Stand

ard (1

000)

Co

nc

en

tra

tio

n(

co

lon

ies

/10

0m

L)


MPID 3415 (2000-2001) SAMPLE

DATE PH STANDARD IRON STANDAR

D TEMP STANDAR

D ALKALINI

TY STANDARD TDS STANDAR

D Mar-00 8.3 6.5-9 0.1 0.3 11 31 115 100-200 179 500

Apr-00 8.2 6.5-9 0.2 0.3 19 31 132 100-200 250 500

May-00 8.1 6.5-9 0.2 0.3 19 31 195 100-200 325 500

Jun-00 8.2 6.5-9 0.1 0.3 17 31 254 100-200 448 500

Jul-00 8 6.5-9 0.2 0.3 11 31 96 100-200 167 500

Aug-00 8.6 6.5-9 0.1 0.3 17 31 121 100-200 208 500

Sep-00 8.5 6.5-9 0.3 0.3 20 31 148 100-200 264 500

The pH was on the higher side, though iron was within standards. All other parameters were within standards. Although Pigeon Creek shows serious contamination by fecal coliform bacteria, it fairs well on the other chemical parameters. Hence we would recommend that Pigeon Creek be critically examined yearly for fecal coliform bacteria. Roaring Fork: Sampling for fecal coliform was carried out in the months of July and August in 2000 and then again in June and July 2001. Results are plotted in the graphs below. The concentration of fecal coliform in Roaring Fork has not risen from the past year as is evident from the sample results and the geometric mean. Chemical parameters were measured upstream in Roaring Fork at a DMME in stream point- MPID 1620008. The results are as follows:

Concentration of Fecal Coliform in Roaring Fork (2000)

5 20 5

220

20

160 120 12040

1000

200

69.850

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

7/25

/00

7/26

/00

7/27

/00

7/31

/00

8/1/

00

8/2/

00

8/3/

00

8/4

/00

8/16

/00

Geo

met

ric M

ean

Sta

ndar

d (G

M o

f 200

)S

tand

ard

(100

0)Co

nc

en

tra

tio

n (

co

lon

ies

/ 1

00

mL

)

Concentration of Fecal Coliform in Roaring Fork (2001)

20 20 5

160

40 40 20100 120

20080

1000

200

57.47

0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

6/5/

016/

7/01

6/8/

016/

11/0

16/

12/0

16/

13/0

16/

14/0

16/

15/0

16/

18/0

16/

19/0

16/

20/0

1G

eom

etric

Mea

n

Stan

dard

(GM

of 2

00)

Sta

ndar

d (1

000

)Co

ncen

trati

on

(co

lon

ies/1

00m

L)


MPID 1620008 (1996-2001) SAMPL

E DATE PH

STANDARD IRON

STANDARD

MANGANESE

STANDARD TEMP

STANDARD

ALKALINITY

STANDARD TDS

STANDARD

SULFATE

STANDAR

D

Jan-96 8.1 6.5-9 0.2 0.3 0.1 0.05 7 31 84 100-200 278 500 272 250

Jul-96 7.1 6.5-9 0.7 0.3 0.05 11 31 146 100-200 429 500 212 250

Jan-97 7.8 6.5-9 0.3 0.3 0.1 0.05 11 31 146 100-200 413 500 188 250

Jul-97 8.1 6.5-9 0.8 0.3 0.1 0.05 20 31 154 100-200 410 500 182 250

Jan-98 8.1 6.5-9 0.5 0.3 0.1 0.05 15 31 248 100-200 654 500 261 250

Jul-98 7.2 6.5-9 1.6 0.3 0.2 0.05 8 31 129 100-200 351 500 163 250

Jan-99 7.5 6.5-9 0.2 0.3 0.05 18 31 195 100-200 560 500 225 250

Jul-99 8.1 6.5-9 0.3 0.3 0.1 0.05 19 31 229 100-200 657 500 272 250

Jan-00 7.6 6.5-9 0.3 0.3 0.1 0.05 1 31 107 100-200 363 500 149 250

Jul-00 8.2 6.5-9 0.3 0.3 0.1 0.05 15 31 196 100-200 499 500 249 250

Jan-01 8.3 6.5-9 0.3 0.3 0.1 0.05 22 31 224 100-200 603 500 252 250

Aug-01 8.3 6.5-9 0.5 0.3 0.1 0.05 8 31 236 100-200 632 500 225 250

The pH was within limits. Iron was either just on the upper limit or above the standards prescribed (it should be kept in mind that this is a standard for use of water for domestic purposes). Manganese was above the standard prescribed at all times. Temperature was within the standards. Alkalinity barely passes the water quality standards most of the time it is sampled. Total Dissolved solids grossly violated the standard of 500 mg/L. The sulfate concentration also violated the standard 3 times. All this information shows that the water quality in Roaring Fork is not very good and needs to be monitored closely in the future. Powell Above Appalachia Sampling for fecal coliform was carried out in the months of July and August in 2000 and then again in June and July 2001. Results are plotted in the graphs below.

Concentration of Fecal coliform in Powell above Appalachia (2000)

10 5 30 5 5 5 5 5 20 7.69200

1000

0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

7/25/0

0

7/26/0

0

7/27/0

0

7/31/0

08/1

/00

8/2/00

8/3/00

8/4/00

8/16/0

0

Geom

etric M

ean

Standard

(GM of

200 m

ore tha...

Stan

dard (10

00 on

ce)C

on

cen

trati

on

(co

lon

ies/

100m

L)

Concentration of fecal coliform in Powell above Appalachia( 2001)

1605 5 5 5 20 5 5 40 5 40 11.34

200

1000

0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

6/5/01

6/7/01

6/8/01

6/11/0

1

6/12/0

1

6/13/0

1

6/14/0

1

6/15/0

1

6/18/0

1

6/19/0

1

6/20/0

1

Geom

etric M

ean

Standard

(GM of

200 m

ore than ...

Standard

(1000 o

nce)

Co

pn

ce

ntr

ati

on

(c

olo

nie

s/1

00

mL

)


The concentration of fecal coliform above Appalachia has not risen considerably from 2000 to 2001. This could be because the population in the area and hence sewage discharge has remained constant or declined. Water quality in the Powell above Appalachia is thus not as much of a concern as in the other creeks in the watershed. Powell below Appalachia Sampling for fecal coliform was carried out in the months of July and August in 2000 and then again in June and July 2001. Results are plotted in the graphs below. The concentration of fecal coliform in the Powell below Appalachia has increased since last year as can be seen from the higher number of positive readings and higher geometric mean in 2001. However the concentration still meets the standard. All this data proves that the water quality Powell River below Appalachia has been good at least on the fecal coliform aspect. Preacher Creek near Derby Preacher Creek flows near the coal camp Derby and was monitored for a number of chemical parameters including fecal coliform in 5 sites on August 23, 2000.

Concentration of Fecal Coliform in Powell Below Appalachia (2000)

5 5 10 5 80 5 5 5 5

1000

7.35

200

0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

7/25/0

0

7/26/0

0

7/27/0

0

7/31/0

08/1

/008/2

/008/3

/00

8/4/0

0

8/16/0

0

Geom

etric M

ean

Standard

(GM of

200)

Standard (10

00)

Co

ncen

trati

on

(co

lon

ies/1

00m

L)

Concentration of Fecal coliform in Powell below Appalachia (2001)

20040

700

280

5 40 5 5 20 20 5

1000

20029.67

0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

6/5/01

6/7/01

6/8/01

6/11/0

1

6/12/0

1

6/13/0

1

6/14/0

1

6/15/0

1

6/18/0

1

6/19/0

1

6/20/0

1

Geom

etric Mean

Standard (GM of 20

0)

Standard (10

00)C

on

ce

ntr

ati

on

(co

lon

ies

/ 1

00

mL

)


The graph above shows that the fecal coliform in Preacher Creek meets the standards in all 5 sites. The BOD level is BDL or below detection limit which is also a sign of good health of the stream. All the other parameters except alkalinity meet the prescribed standards. Alkalinity is not in the range of 100-200 mg/l, which means that Preacher Creek is susceptible to sharp changes in pH if exposed to contaminants like wastewater discharges. In all other parameters the stream appears to be healthy. Samples were also taken for sulfate, iron and manganese and the results are: PARAMETERS UNITS WS1 WS2 WS3 WS4 WS5 STANDARDS Iron, Total mg/L 0.13 0.16 0.12 0.15 0.43 0.3 Manganese, total mg/L BDL BDL BDL BDL BDL 0.05 Sulfate mg/L 85 55 48 54 97 250

At all sites except WS5 the iron was in accordance to standards. Manganese was below detection limit and hence almost negligible. Sulfate was also within the standards. Sampling of fecal coliform done just above and below Derby showed a similar scenario. According to a survey done in July 26, 2001 the fecal coliform above Derby was 20 units/ 100 mL and below Derby 300 units/ 100mL. Chemical monitoring was carried out by DMME at a site near Derby in the year 2000 and early 2001 (see table below) on Preacher Creek. All the parameters observed were within standards. MPID 3902 (2000-2001)

SAMPLE DATE PH

STANDARD TEMP

STANDARD

ALKALINITY STANDARD TDS

STANDARD SULFATE

STANDARD

Dec-00 7.6 6.5-9 5 31 168 100-200 276 500 56 250

Jan-01 7.6 6.5-9 3 31 181 100-200 285 500 48 250

Feb-01 7.5 6.5-9 6 31 95 100-200 193 500 29 250

Mar-01 7.6 6.5-9 10 31 38 100-200 111 500 34 250

Water Quality Indicators in Preacher Creek near Derby

0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

Values

Fecal Coliform (colonies/100mL) Alkalinity (mg/L) Conductivity (umhos/cm) BOD pH Total Dissolved Solids

Fecal Coliform (colonies/100mL) 15 15 15 18 18 1000 Alkalinity (mg/L) 62 77 56 140 55 100-200

Conductivity (umhos/cm) 230 220 220 420 200

BOD BDL BDL BDL BDL BDL NA

pH 7.6 7 . 6 7.3 7.9 7.7 6.5-9 Total Dissolved Solids 166 130 131 262 90 500

WS1 WS2 W S 3 W S 4 WS5 Standards


Biological conditions in Preacher Creek Biological Monitoring of benthic macro invertebrates was carried out at 3 other sites. The results are as follows: PARAMETERS AS1 AS2 AS3

Taxa Richness 25 11 14

EPT Index 8 3 9

Modified Hilsenhoff Biotic Index or MFBI 3.9 5.3 3.7

Total Number of Individuals 236 217 55

Dominance % 75 91.7 67.3

Biological sampling of Preacher Creek shows that the biological conditions in all but one of the sites sampled are moderate to good. All of this indicates that water quality has been moderately good in Preacher Creek the recent years. South Fork of Powell River Sampling for fecal coliform was carried out in the months of July and August in 2000 and then again in June and July 2001. Results are plotted in the graphs below. The graphs show that the fecal coliform concentration has risen dramatically in South Fork of Powell over the past year. The situation in 2001 shows one reading with a value above 1000 and the Geometric Mean above 200. In both cases, SF of Powell has crossed the Virginia DEQ standard. Other Chemical Parameters in the South Fork of Powell Data was obtained on chemical parameters from the DEQ site located on South Fork of Powell near Big Stone Gap.

Concentration of fecal Coliform in SF Powell (2000)

20 5 5 5 5 5 5120

22012.64

200

1000

0200400600800

1000

1200

7/25/0

07/2

6/00

7/27/0

07/3

1/00

8/1/00

8/2/00

8/3/00

8/4/0

08/1

6/00

Geom

etric M

ean

Stan

dard

(GM

of 20

0)St

anda

rd (1

000)C

on

ce

ntr

ati

on

(co

lon

ies

/10

0m

L)

Concentration of fecal coliform in SF of Powell (2000)

660

880

560

320240

120

400

180

1040

20

400

1000

200300.37

0

200

400

600

800

1000

1200

6/5/

016/

7/01

6/8/

016/

11/0

16/

12/0

16/

13/0

16/

14/0

16/

15/0

16/

18/0

16/

19/0

16/

20/0

1G

eom

etric

Mea

n

Sta

ndar

d (G

M o

f 200

)S

tand

ard

(100

0)

Co

ncen

trati

on

(co

lon

ies/ 100 m

L)


Temperature and Dissolved Oxygen (1995-1996)

DATE TEMPERATURE STANDARD DISSOLVED OXYGEN STANDARD

Feb-95 4.3 31 12.75 5

Jun-95 8.9 31 11.37 5

Oct-95 5.7 31 12.75 5

Jan-96 3.5 31 13.87 5

Jun-96 11.1 31 11.15 5

Aug-96 4.6 31 12.71 5

Both temperature and dissolved oxygen are within standards in the South Fork of Powell River. Nitrate, pH and Phosphorus (1999-2001)

DATE NITRATE

(MG/L) STANDARD PH STANDARD PHOSPHORUS (MG/L) STANDARD

Jan-99 0.97 10 7.27 6.5-9 0.01 0.1

Jul-99 0.75 10 8.19 6.5-9 0.03 0.1

Oct-99 0.4 10 7.76 6.5-9 0.01 0.1

Jan-00 0.63 10 7.71 6.5-9 0.01 0.1

Jul-00 0.67 10 6.71 6.5-9 0.01 0.1

Oct-00 0.157 10 6.57 6.5-9 0.011 0.1

Jan-01 1.25 10 6.03 6.5-9 0.01 0.1

All three parameters meet the standards. Total Dissolved Solids and Sulfate (1995-98) DATE TDS STANDARD SULFATE STANDARD Feb-95 240 500 97 250 Jul-95 281 500 117 250 Jan-96 442 500 178 250 Jul-96 503 500 213 250 Oct-96 319 500 10.5 250 Jan-97 285 500 122 250 Jul-97 523 500 230 250 Oct-97 378 500 151 250 Jan-98 435 500 209 250 Jul-98 495 500 201 250 Sep-98 287 500 110 250

Though the TDS concentrations crossed the 500 mg/L mark twice during the whole time frame it was not by a very big margin. Sulfate concentrations were well within the standard. Even though the South Fork of Powell River shows contamination by fecal coliform bacteria it fairs well on the other chemical parameters. Thus it needs close monitoring on the fecal coliform bacteria aspect.


Mud Lick Creek Fecal coliform sampling was done in Mud Lick Creek, just below the coal camp Osaka and both upstream and downstream Roda on July 26, 2001. The following results were obtained:

Sampling for was carried out by DMME at sites above and below the coal camp Osaka on Mud Lick Creek over a period of time for a variety of chemical parameters and the following results were observed at MPID 2559: MPID 2559 SAMPLE

DATE PH STANDA

RD IRON

STANDARD

MANGANESE

STANDARD TDS

STANDARD TEMP

STANDARD

ALKALINITY

STANDARD

SULFATE

STANDARD

Jun-97 7.9 6.5-9 1.4 0.3 0.1 0.05 191 500 19 31 163 100-200 76 250

Jul-97 8.4 6.5-9 0.5 0.3 <0.05 0.05 368 500 12 31 197 100-200 109 250

Aug-97 8.3 6.5-9 0.2 0.3 0.1 0.05 260 500 5 31 126 100-200 70 250

Sep-97 7.7 6.5-9 4.6 0.3 0.1 0.05 500 8 31 100-200 250

Oct -97 8 6.5-9 1 0.3 0.2 0.05 324 500 19 31 168 100-200 67 250

Nov-97 7.6 6.5-9 0.4 0.3 0.1 0.05 331 500 20 31 205 100-200 75 250

Dec-97 8 6.5-9 0.1 0.3 0.1 0.05 210 500 23 31 138 100-200 80 250

Jan-98 7.7 6.5-9 0.3 0.3 0.1 0.05 233 500 7 31 132 100-200 67 250

Feb-98 8.7 6.5-9 0.3 0.3 0.1 0.05 352 500 18 31 184 100-200 79 250

Mar-98 7.9 6.5-9 0.1 0.3 0.1 0.05 338 500 15 31 186 100-200 67 250

Apr-98 8 6.5-9 0.1 0.3 0.1 0.05 251 500 7 31 138 100-200 5 250

May-98 8.5 6.5-9 0.1 0.3 0.1 0.05 309 500 12 31 174 100-200 100 250

Jun-98 7.3 6.5-9 0.8 0.3 0.3 0.05 293 500 17 31 42 100-200 25 250

Jul-98 8.2 6.5-9 0.4 0.3 0.1 0.05 325 500 19 31 206 100-200 135 250

Aug-98 7.7 6.5-9 0.1 0.3 0.1 0.05 353 500 7 31 198 100-200 81 250

Sep-98 7.7 6.5-9 0.1 0.3 0.1 0.05 314 500 7 31 161 100-200 141 250

Fecal coliform concentration near Osaka and Roda in Mud Lick Creek (2001)

3000

20

8001000 1000 1000

0500

100015002000250030003500

Downstream Osaka Upstream Roda Downstream Roda Con

cent

ratio

n (C

FU/1

000)

Concentration (Number/100 mL) VA WQ Standard (Number/100 ML)


PH, TDS, temperature has been within standards in all the circumstances. The concentration of iron was much higher above the standard on many occasions in 1997 and 1998. Manganese was always above the permitted concentrations. MPID 1520006 (1995-1998) SAMPLE

DATE PH STANDAR

D IRON STANDAR

D TEMP STANDARD ALKALINIT

Y STANDAR

D TDS STANDAR

D SULFA

TE STANDARD

Jun-95 7.8 6.5-9 0.5 0.3 16 31 119 100-200 385 500 158 250

Oct-95 7.9 6.5-9 0.2 0.3 14 31 120 100-200 315 500 154 250

Jan-96 8.1 6.5-9 0.1 0.3 16 31 144 100-200 381 500 35 250

Jan-97 7.9 6.5-9 0.3 0.3 13 31 172 100-200 535 500 216 250

Jul-97 8.3 6.5-9 0.1 0.3 16 31 177 100-200 436 500 136 250

Oct-97 7.7 6.5-9 0.5 0.3 4 31 122 100-200 1191 500 169 250

Jan-98 7.8 6.5-9 0.1 0.3 10 31 88 100-200 322 500 164 250

Jul-98 8.2 6.5-9 0.1 0.3 18 31 168 100-200 494 500 141 250

Oct-98 7.8 6.5-9 0.2 0.3 1 31 133 100-200 376 500 128 250

Dec-98 8.1 6.5-9 0.1 0.3 7 31 91 100-200 328 500 148 250

While pH is on the higher side it is within the standard. Total Dissolved Solids were higher than they are required to be by the standards one time in January and then October 1997. All other parameters meet their respective standards. All this data indicates that the water quality conditions in Mud Lick Creek are not very good and this creek needs to be monitored closely (for fecal coliform) especially since it is a tributary to the impaired Callahan Creek. Conclusion and Recommendations A baseline of all the data has been compiled in Excel, which will be used to gather and record further data on various water quality criteria by the watershed volunteers and monitoring groups. This Excel database has been tied to the GPS locations of the monitoring sites in ArcView. This will help us monitor the progress spatially. The status of water quality shows that the fecal coliform has risen in certain creeks especially Pigeon, Callahan and South Fork of Powell River. While the Virginia DEQ has declared only limited segments of both Callahan Creek and Powell River impaired, it appears from our study of the data that the water quality in Pigeon Creek is deteriorating at a rapid rate. This could possibly mean that there are other areas that should be considered for impairment in addition to the ones, which are already classified as impaired. The results from sampling also show that Mud Lick Creek (near Osaka, for fecal coliform), and Roaring Fork (iron, total dissolved solids, manganese etc) require further monitoring. Since most of the fecal coliform problem results from community straight piping of sewage by coal camp communities, some thought needs to be given about the placement of permanent monitoring locations in these streams. They should be placed in close proximity to these communities instead of locating stations near Appalachia and Big Stone Gap. We would also recommend that in addition to chemical monitoring, biological monitoring be conducted regularly in the impaired segments of the Callahan Creek since Callahan is listed as impaired for benthic reasons. This lack of benthic diversity could be attributed to the fecal coliform


contamination. Supplementing biological monitoring with chemical monitoring would provide better results. Some thought needs to be given to the placement of these monitoring locations which need to be where the segment is declared impaired by Virginia DEQ. As seen by a one-point sampling in 2001, much higher concentrations of fecal bacteria were observed further upstream. Both Mud Lick Creek and Roaring Fork directly empty into the Upper Powell and thus need to be monitored on a regular basis. Thus two tasks are important for Hands at this stage; setting up permanent monitoring locations at the above-mentioned Creeks, and regular monitoring and analysis of data through interns or volunteers.


Appendix 3: Streamwalk Assessment User-Guide This is a user-guide for conducting a streamwalk assessment using a Palm IIIc hand-held computer, Garmin eTrex GPS unit, and CyberTracker software. The streamwalk assessment has been adapted for use by primary and secondary students as an applied environmental education technique. This model has great potential as a watershed management tool. A possible future application is use by volunteers to evaluate the stream and surrounding land use in order to track changes. The following user-guide will walk Palm streamwalk surveyors through the step-by-step process. Hardware Introduction As we know, budgets for education and nonprofit groups are always tight; therefore it is important to minimize the cost of equipment. The hardware used for this streamwalk assessment is relatively inexpensive and affordable to most watershed groups and schools. Each of the hardware items comes with instruction manuals and user-guides. Familiarize yourself with operating these before using them with children or volunteers for the streamwalk assessment.

a. PDA The Palm IIIc personal digital assistant (PDA) is small and compact, making it a good choice for children. The PDA comes with software and operating instructions, which you must install on your desktop computer. The streamwalk assessment program is in the PDA, and this is what you use to log in your field data to upload to your desktop computer. b. GPS The Garmin eTrex global positioning system (GPS) is user-friendly, waterproof, and small enough for little hands to use easily. The GPS will take latitude/longitude readings of the streamwalk assessment boundaries. It can also provide additional information such as directional heading and elevation, and you can plot your course using the “waypoint” function. c. Connector cable The connection cable lets the GPS and PDA communicate so the GPS can take a location that is automatically saved in the streamwalk program in the PDA.

Cybertracker software You will need to download the CyberTracker software to your desktop. To do this, go to www.cybertracker.org. You may want to read about the organization at this website and contact them with information about the project you are working on. Follow the instructions for downloading the software. You will also need to install WinZip on your computer in order to access the CyberTracker software. You can find this at www.winzip.com. The free test or sample version is all you will need for this application.

1. Unzip CyberTracker and install it on your computer. 2. Open CyberTracker 3. Go to File, then Open. 4. The disk provided will have the streamwalk database on it. Select the drive with the disk in it

and select streamwalk. 5. Save streamwalk on your hard drive by choosing File, Save As, drive C: and hit OK. 6. You now have the database on your desktop and are ready to navigate the software.

Before going into the field to do your streamwalk assessments, you may need to update two items on the streamwalk database. “Team” and “Site” will need to be pre-programmed into the PDA before


going to the site in the field. The database currently (August 2001) has six teams listed on the PDA as there are six sets of PDA/GPS units. The sites currently listed are the Upper Powell River and Callahan Creek. If these are adequate for what you are monitoring, nothing needs to be changed. But if you are going to a different stream, or need to add more teams, you will want to change these defaults. To do this, follow these steps:

1. Team a. Open streamwalk database in CyberTracker. b. Select Tools, Data Manager. Make sure the Explorer window is showing. c. Click on the Structure folder on the left hand side of the window. d. Double click on the Team folder. e. Move the mouse pointer to the + sign on your tool bar and click it. New Item should

be highlighted on the right hand side of the window under ‘Team 6.’ f. Type in the new team name. Hit return. You have just added a new team to the

database. 2. Site

a. Open streamwalk database in CyberTracker. b. Select Tools, Data Manager. Make sure the Explorer window is showing. c. Click on the Structure folder on the left hand side of the window. d. Double click on the Site folder. e. Move the mouse pointer to the + sign on your tool bar and click it. New Item should

be highlighted on the right hand side of the window under ‘Upper Powell River.’ f. Type in the name of the new site. Hit return. Now you have created a new site in

your database! When changing any element in the database, it automatically changes the database. To be safe, however, save your changes in File, Save As, streamwalk, and hit OK. This updates all information you have changed. Loading the database to your PDA You will need to HotSync your PDA to the desktop in order to install CyberTracker to the PDA.

1. In the CyberTracker program, select Tools. 2. Select Synchronize 3. Now select the username of your PDA where it asks for it. 4. Click Install. This sets up the program to install to your PDA. 5. Now put your PDA in the cradle and push the HotSync button on the cradle. 6. The program will transfer to the PDA automatically when the HotSync occurs. Check your

PDA to make sure everything worked. You are now ready to go to the field. Site Selection Choose stream-monitoring sites to conduct the assessment based on safety, accessibility, and proximity. Visit the site before bringing children to the stream in order to assess the conditions. Identify a segment of the stream that is characteristic of the stream in the area of interest. You will use this segment as the representative sample and conduct your assessment within this area. The segment should not be larger than you can easily view from both locations. A good rule of thumb for children is to keep the upstream and downstream boundaries within 100 feet. Begin the assessment at the downstream location. You will then walk to the upstream boundary during your streamwalk assessment.


To Start 1. Plug the small end of the connection cable into the GPS and the larger end into the PDA. 2. Turn on both the GPS and PDA. 3. On the GPS will need to be told to recognize the cable. To do this:

a. Go to the Menu screen using the Page button. b. Select Setup, Interface, then push the enter button when I/O Format is selected. c. Choose NMEA OUT d. Use the Page button to return to the Main Menu screen. You are now ready to take

GPS points using the PDA. 4. To get to the streamwalk assessment program in the PDA, select the CT (CyberTracker) logo

in the All Menu. This brings you directly to the beginning of the program. Streamwalk Set-up The first screen shows you Team, Site, and Streamwalk. To begin the streamwalk you first must choose your Team and Site. These have already been entered into your desktop computer and installed on your PDA.

1. Use the PDA stylus to select Team. Select the forward arrow key on the bottom of the screen.

2. Choose one of the teams from this list. Forward arrow 3. Select Site. Forward Arrow (after every selection on a screen, you must tap the forward

arrow key. This will be assumed and omitted from the directions from now on.) 4. Choose the site you are visiting. You are now ready to begin the streamwalk assessment.

Conducting the Streamwalk

1. Select StreamWalk. 2. Select Boundaries.

a. Downstream boundary b. Here you can enter the Survey ID site. If there is a name for the location enter it here

using the letter keys. Hit OK when you are finished. c. The PDA automatically takes a GPS location. If, for some reason, you do not want

the GPS unit to take the point, touch the pointer inside the triangle and lightly press on the triangle until the ABORTING sign appears. The triangle will turn black and then the screen will return to the streamwalk menu.

3. Select Survey 4. Type in the name of the survey you are conducting. This could be as simple as Segment 1, or

can be given a more specific name incorporating the location or something else. 5. The next screen is the Site Description. You can describe the site, or leave it blank. 6. The first screen of the streamwalk assessment asks you to describe the weather in the past 24

hours. This is followed by the current weather conditions. 7. The Habitat screen is a little different from the rest of the screens. Here you see Pool, Riffle,

and Run. To the right of the icons it looks like this: 0 0 0. This represents the Left-Middle-Right parts of the stream. If you see a Pool, Riffle, or Run at the part of the stream you are evaluating, use your stylus to change the 0 to a 1 by tapping on it in the appropriate column.

8. From this point on you will be assessing the stream characteristics, plant cover, wildlife, and land use adjacent to the stream. Each screen describes what it evaluates.

a. Under a few headings, all of the options do not fit on one screen. In this case, use the downward pointing arrow to view those choices.

b. Some screens give you the option of choosing more than one category. For example, under the Severe Problems screen, you may choose one, all, or none of the options listed.


9. Now continue to go through each screen until you come to the end of the survey. Hit the OK button on the lower right-hand side when you are finished.

10. Select Boundaries 11. Select Upstream Boundary

a. Type in the Survey ID name of the location you are at and hit OK b. The next screen will automatically take a GPS reading. Remember to have the GPS

unit on where the screen reads “Ready to Navigate” in order to do this. 12. Select End. You are now ready to return to your desktop to download the data or stay at the

stream and evaluate another site! Transferring Data to Desktop Computer Now that you have completed your streamwalk assessments, it is time to transfer this information to your desktop computer. This is how you will monitor the stream characteristics and track any changes.

1. Place the PDA in its cradle. 2. Open CyberTracker. 3. Select File, Open, and streamwalk. 4. Push the HotSync button on your PDA cradle. This will upload any new field data you

collected to your computer. 5. A screen will appear on your desktop asking if you want to refresh the queries because the

database has changed. Select Yes. 6. Move the mouse to the large ? on the toolbar and click on it. This is your Query function in

CyberTracker. You will have 4 queries already set up in CyberTracker. They are: Stream Survey; US (upstream) Boundaries; DS (downstream) Boundaries; and Site ID.

7. To select one of these queries, simply move the mouse to the box to the le ft of the colored box and click. This will place a checkmark in the selected box.

8. Next go to the Table icon on the toolbar. This is just to the right of the globe on the toolbar. Select the table you wish to view. For demonstration purposes, select ‘InStream Characteristics’ by double clicking on it. This shows you all information you collected on the stream itself.

There are many applications you can do in CyberTracker using this data. Experiment with the applications and create the types of graphs, tables and maps you want. The Help function gives you details on how to manipulate the data you have. It also connects you to the CyberTracker website if you select Help, Contents. Conduct the streamwalk assessments on selected parts of the river weekly or even monthly to keep an accurate picture of how the stream characteristics change. This is an excellent monitoring tool as well as educational tool. So get out into the outdoors and have fun in your watershed!

Documents

Watershed Improvement and Community Outreach …s3.amazonaws.com/zanran_storage/ Training for Environmental Progress, Summer 2001 A Project of Virginia Service Training for Environmental