Aesthetics Monitoring

Each field visit to the Rouge River includes documentation of the aesthetics at the sites. The aesthetic indicators selected for the Rouge Project include water clarity, odor, water color, visible debris, and signs of obvious pollution. Observations are documented on a standardized field sheet. The results have been used to develop a numerical index of aesthetic quality. This index is used to locate problem areas and track trends. View the report, Evaluation of Aesthetic Conditions within the Rouge River, July 1996. The water quality section of the 2001 Baseline Data Summary Report (3.1 MB - PDF File) includes figures summarizing the aesthetics data from 1997 through 2001.

The field sampling plan for 2004 provides a detailed description of the ongoing sampling and monitoring efforts of the Rouge Project 2004 Baseline Monitoring Program. The goals of the 2004 sampling program include: implementing monitoring required in individual community storm water permits, maintaining the historical database, tracking trends in the River; tracking progress on Rouge restoration efforts; and providing data to assist in implementing other Rouge restoration efforts (i.,e., "hot spots" for illicit discharge elimination).

Monitoring and sampling scope, methods, sites, duration, and sample handling for the 2004 season (May-October) are described. Standard operating procedures (SOPs) ensure that the sampling is of acceptable quality and will yield information and data that are useable and technically defensible. This Field Sampling Plan (FSP) is used for both staff and training and reference.

Although aesthetic observations will continue to be collected each time a visit is made to a site, results will only be available in hard-copy.

Additional information on aesthetics monitoring can be found by clicking the links below: