New & Improved Website for Water Quality Data in the Connecticut River Watershed
- Diana Chaplin
- 6 days ago
- 2 min read
Is it clean? It will now be easier than ever to determine whether the waterbody near you is clean for swimming, boating, or recreation.
13 years after the Connecticut River Conservancy (CRC) first launched the Is It Clean database to share E. coli bacteria results from water samples collected throughout the Connecticut River watershed, the website has been updated with a modern new look, dynamic user experience, mobile-friendliness, and predictive features to show likelihood of water quality conditions. You can see it live at isitclean.us.
Samples from over 250 locations throughout NH, VT, MA, and CT are collected by volunteers and partner organizations between the months of May and October annually, most of which are processed at CRC’s water quality lab in Greenfield, MA. The results are typically uploaded to the website the day after sample collection to inform recreation activities for the public, as well as equipping state/federal agencies and policymakers with water quality data in their jurisdiction.
Users can search by region, watershed, or waterbody, with the results instantly showing the likely water conditions based on past sample results and recent weather at each location along with specific sampling dates and results.
The results are also used to inform restoration and advocacy work by CRC and watershed partners, including research related to Combined Sewer Overflows. Data uploaded to the EPA’s Water Quality Exchange may be used to support appropriate classification of water bodies.
Why E. coli?
While most strains are harmless and individual safety cannot be guaranteed, its presence may signal other pathogens that can cause illness from water contact, so this data supports public health and awareness about water conditions. E. coli levels tend to be higher after rain or during periods of drought, and with the exception of certain locations under certain weather conditions most of the Connecticut River and tributaries are generally considered clean for recreation. Want to be sure? Check the new website for the waterbody near YOU at isitclean.us.
This website update was developed by Ryan O'Donnell, Water Quality Program Manager at the Connecticut River Conservancy, with technical support and implementation by The Commons.
