Water monitoring is at the heart of our mission as Waterkeepers. By gathering information about the conditions of our local rivers, streams, and coastal waters, such as bacteria levels, salinity, pH, and dissolved oxygen we gain crucial insight into the health of our ecosystems and the threats they face. Our monitoring efforts extend to areas that may otherwise go untested, including places where communities fish, swim, or paddle. In doing so, we not only protect public health but also fill critical data gaps left by limited public monitoring programs. Waterkeepers also test for contaminants like PFAS the so-called “forever chemicals” and other toxics from industrial or wastewater sources, ensuring that potential dangers are identified and addressed before they become long-term hazards.
In 2025, Waterkeeper programs in Maryland launched an exciting collaborative project to improve bacteria monitoring in several local waterways. The two-year project is funded by an EPA Thriving Communities $246,241 grant awarded through the Green & Healthy Homes Initiative. Waterkeeper programs operate volunteer-driven water quality monitoring networks that fill critical gaps in public sampling programs, particularly in locations frequently used by local residents but not consistently monitored by government agencies. Under this new initiative, participating organizations will work together to develop an online platform that serves as a one-stop hub where the public can view bacteria data, understand what the results mean, and learn how to volunteer as community scientists.
Bacteria Water Quality Monitoring Planning Project participating programs include: Anacostia Riverkeeper, Arundel Rivers Federation (South, West & Rhode Riverkeeper), ShoreRivers (Choptank, Miles-Wye, Chester and Sassafras Riverkeepers), Assateague Coastal Trust (Assateague Coastkeeper), Blue Water Baltimore (Baltimore Harbor Waterkeeper), Gunpowder Riverkeeper, Potomac Riverkeeper Network (Potomac and Upper Potomac Riverkeepers).
Aging Sewer Infrastructure: The Menace Below Our Feet
Historic Sewage Spill in the Potomac River
Waterkeepers Join Forces to Improve Bacteria Monitoring in Maryland Waterways
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