Water quality improvement research
Our scientific studies inform effective water quality improvement efforts. On-the-ground monitoring and carefully calibrated computer modeling support cleanup of impaired rivers and streams and their long-term restoration. The studies referenced below are recent or active studies commissioned by cleanup partners to guage and support short- and long-term stream restoration goals.
Science guides water improvement work
Water quality improvement cleanup plans address many types of water pollution including bacteria, dissolved oxygen, metals, pH, and other parameters. Early in water cleanup planning, calibrated computer models provide options for effective actions. We conduct source assessment and preliminary studies to help community and government partners focus on effective strategies.
Effectiveness monitoring follows up on cleanup activities by investigating long-term water quality and assessing biological and habitat recovery over time. Once cleanup activities have begun, we use research data to guide ongoing efforts. New information can result in new cleanup approaches and protections, water quality listings or delistings, and allow for new or restored water uses.
Recent and ongoing studies
See below for more on our source assessment and effectiveness monitoring studies in rivers and streams.
Soos Creek source assessment
Soos Creek and its major tributaries do not meet water quality standards for temperature, dissolved oxygen, nor bacteria. We collected extensive data from April 2023 to May 2024 to better understand these water quality issues. See our Soos Creek source assessment page to learn more.
Lower Snohomish River effectiveness monitoring
We recently completed a study of several creeks in the Lower Snohomish River basin to assess the effectiveness of local efforts to reduce fecal coliform pollution. Our Lower Snohomish River tributaries effectiveness monitoring page has more information.
Newaukum River effectiveness monitoring
We are engaging in a long-term study of cleanup and restoration projects in the Newaukum River in the greater Chehalis Basin. The Newaukum River effectiveness monitoring page has more information.
Railroad Creek effectiveness monitoring
We are studying how stream biological communities change over time at Railroad Creek, the site of a mine cleanup.
Puyallup River tributaries effectiveness monitoring
We are studying the effectiveness of water quality improvement effectiveness monitoring on three tributaries to the Puyallup River. See our Puyallup River Tributaries effectiveness monitoring page for more information.
Project details and study methods
We have an index of publications, including plans and reports, related to effectiveness monitoring for water quality improvement projects (TMDLs) since 2002.
We also provide guidance for effectiveness monitoring projects. The publication includes a downloadable spreadsheet model to support project planning.
Find effectiveness monitoring studies across the state
View the water quality improvement effectiveness monitoring studies map to learn about active and recent projects across Washington state.
Related links
Contact information
Scott Collyard
Effectiveness Monitoring Lead
scott.collyard@ecy.wa.gov
360-522-3996