Quality Of Water Resources Research Articles

Information and Analytical System Monitoring and Assessment of the Water Bodies State in the Mineral Resources Complex

Currently, one of the most pressing global issues is ensuring that human activities have access to water resources that meet essential quality standards. This challenge is addressed by implementing a series of organizational and technical measures aimed at preserving the ecology of water basins and reducing the level of harmful industrial emissions and other pollutants in the aquatic environment. To guarantee the necessary quality of water resources, monitoring is conducted based on selected parameters using various methods and means of technical quality control. From these results, suitable measures are formulated and applied to maintain water quality. Various scientific works extensively discuss different approaches to water quality management and compliance with specified requirements. Modern strategies for developing water monitoring systems leverage the capabilities of information systems that collect, process, store, and transmit information, enabling the resolution of issues in geographically distributed water bodies in real time. This paper proposes an approach that employs mathematical methods to identify the most significant factors determining water quality and to assess their interrelations using methods of a priori ranking, multivariate correlation regression analysis, and integral quantitative assessment. A hardware and software solution for the development of a unified integrated information and analytical system is proposed. This system enables continuous monitoring and assessment of water bodies based on a set of key parameters, addressing a range of critical tasks. This paper provides a detailed description of the software product, presents a demonstration using real-world data, and discusses the anticipated benefits of implementing such an information and analytical system.

Assessing the grey water footprint of pesticide use in the Mendoza wine region (Argentina): implications for sustainable water resources management

This paper assesses the impact of viticulture on water resource quality in the Mendoza wine region using the grey water footprint (GWF) approach to estimate the amount of water required to dilute pesticides commonly used in local vineyards. Our analysis indicates that to progress towards sustainable water management in viticulture, limiting or replacing pesticides with high GWF values is essential. We provide detailed results for 24 fungicides, 7 insecticides, and 7 herbicides, assessed at both microregion and district levels, offering insights into pesticide impacts across both detailed and broader spatial scales. At the microregion level, the herbicide Fluroxypyr-meptyl was found to have the highest GWF (1.10 m³ kg-1), followed by the fungicide Fosetyl-aluminium (0.59 m³ kg-1) and the insecticide Imidacloprid (0.41 m³ kg-1). Our findings also show that pesticide impacts vary at the district level, highlighting the need for localised management strategies. Additionally, the significant variability in GWFs at the local level underscores the necessity for region-specific water quality standards to more accurately assess and manage the environmental impact of pesticide use. This study provides a framework for similar assessments in other viticultural regions, aiding in the development of more informed pesticide management to enhance water resource sustainability.

Assessment of diffusive recharge at regional scale in karst systems, Amazon basin, Ecuador

Karst systems play a crucial role in drinking water supply and biodiversity. Therefore, their comprehensive characterization of their recharge mechanisms is essential for safeguard water resource quality and sustainable management. This study utilizes the open-access thematic cartography of Ecuador to analyze the lithological, geomorphological, and hydrographic boundaries of groundwater karst systems. Then, employing the APLIS method, the diffusive recharge for each system is calculated. As a result, five hydrogeological karst systems and twelve small isolated karst bodies were delineated within the Amazon Region of Ecuador, collectively occupying a total area of 11112 km2. The effective infiltration of precipitation within these systems was found to vary between 11.11% and 77.11%, with a predominant low infiltration range (20%-40%) covering 48% of the karst area. One of the multiple parameters used in water balance calculations is defined by this research, serving as the initial step in creating conceptual models for evaluating karst aquifer systems in Ecuador from a hydrological perspective. The findings not only offer insights into the vulnerability and characteristics of these systems but also establish the foundation for informed decision-making in sustainable groundwater resource management and protection efforts.

Assessment of Potentially Toxic Elements and Their Risks in Water and Sediments of Kitengure Stream, Buhweju Plateau, Uganda

Artisanal and small-scale gold mining (ASCGM) provides a livelihood for many communities worldwide, but it has profound environmental impacts, especially on the quality of nearby water resources. This study assessed the impacts of ASCGM on the physicochemical quality of water and sediments from Kitengure stream, Buhweju Plateau, Western Uganda. Surface water (n = 94) and superficial sediments (n = 36) were sampled between October 2021 and January 2022 from three different sections of Kitengure stream (upstream, midstream around the ASCGM area, and downstream). The samples were analyzed for various physicochemical parameters and selected potentially toxic elements (PTXEs), namely: zinc (Zn), cadmium (Cd), lead (Pb), copper (Cu), and arsenic (As). A health risk assessment was performed using the hazard index and incremental life cancer risk methods. Pearson’s bivariate correlation, geoaccumulation, and pollution indices were used to establish the sources and potential risks that PTXEs in sediments could pose to aquatic organisms. The results indicated that water in Kitengure stream draining the ASCGM site was highly colored (1230.00 ± 134.09 Pt-co units; range = 924.00–1576.00 Pt-co units) and turbid (194.75 ± 23.51 NTU; range = 148–257 NTU). Among the five analyzed PTXEs, only Cd (0.082 ± 0.200–0.092 ± 0.001 mg/L) and Cu (0.022 ± 0.004–0.058 ± 0.005 mg/L) were detected in water, and Cd was above the permissible limit of 0.003 mg/L for potable water. Upon calculating the water quality index (WQI), the water samples were categorized as very poor for upstream samples (WQI = 227) and unfit for use (WQI = 965 and 432) for midstream and downstream samples, respectively. In sediments, the mean concentration ranges of Zn, Cd, Pb, Cu, and As were 0.991 ± 0.038–1.161 ± 0.051, 0.121 ± 0.014–0.145 ± 0.025, 0.260 ± 0.027–0.770 ± 0.037, 0.107 ± 0.017–0.422 ± 0.056, and 0.022 ± 0.002–0.073 ± 0.003 mg/kg, respectively, and they were all below their average shale, toxicity reference, and consensus-based sediment quality guidelines. Geoaccumulation indices suggested that there was no enrichment of the elements in the sedimentary phase and the associated ecological risks were low. However, there were potential non-carcinogenic health risks that maybe experienced by children who drink water from Kitengure stream. No discernable health risks were likely due to dermal contact with water and sediments during dredging or panning activities. It is recommended that further studies should determine the total mercury content of water, sediments, and crops grown along the stream as well as the associated ecological and human health risks.

Accumulation of road salt in a calcareous fen: Kampoosa Bog, western Massachusetts.

Road salt poses a threat to the quality of soils and water resources. Wetlands located in salt contaminated areas are at risk of experiencing lower plant and animal species diversity. Therefore, it is critical to understand how modifications to salt application rates and hydrological events impact wetland water quality. Here, we use chloride mass flux, discharge, groundwater chloride concentration, meteorological, and salt application data from 2012-2020 to estimate chloride accumulation and outflux rates in the Kampoosa Bog subwatersheds, located in Stockbridge and Lee, Massachusetts, and bordered by major highways (Interstate-90 and U.S. Route 7). We also investigate the correlation between wetland size and chloride retention rate. During the 2018-2019 period, mean annual chloride application rates in the major watershed increased from 363000 kg/year (2012-2017) to 479000 kg/year. This led to a net chloride accumulation (KB100 subwatershed: 339000 kg; KB150 subwatershed: 188000 kg) and increased groundwater chloride concentrations in the fen. Chloride outflux from these subwatersheds was primarily driven by discharge. We found that the relationship between wetland percent cover and chloride retention is complex. Although the percent wetland cover is greater in the KB100 main wetland region compared to the KB150 subwatershed, high precipitation in 2018 resulted in similar chloride retention efficiencies (~26%). During the drier year (2019), chloride retention was higher in the wetland region due to its gentle slopes which promote water accumulation and consequently higher evaporation rates which lowers discharge and chloride outfluxes. The chloride steady-state concentration analysis also suggests that there is potential for chloride accumulation to continue because the watershed has not yet reached steady-state chloride concentrations. Without major modifications to salting practices, chloride concentrations will continue increasing and potentially promote the re-growth of invasives (Phragmites) and continued growth of salt tolerant species (Typha angustifolia/xglauca) that diminish plant diversity.

Water Resources Quality Indicators Monitoring by Nonlinear Programming and Simulated Annealing Optimization with Ensemble Learning Approaches

Water Resources Quality Indicators Monitoring by Nonlinear Programming and Simulated Annealing Optimization with Ensemble Learning Approaches

HYDROCHEMICAL STUDY OF BALAK RIVER, ERBIL-IRAQ

This study was aimed to assess the water quality of different water resources (Surface water, subsurface in water, and groundwater) across the Balak river basin. Twenty two different water resource samples were collected and subjecting to a comprehensive physicochemical analysis. Balak river basin, situated in Erbil governorate, Iraq, it is located 10 km to the east from Bekhal Waterfall. Five attributers combine with Balak River within the basin areas which are: Rezanok Sub River, Balakiyan Sub River, Basan Sub River, Roste Sub River, and Alana Sub River. The hydro chemical study of all water resources during the investigated period revealed that the spring waters are relatively higher in electrical conductivity value compared to other sources. Some surface water samples were recorded high turbidity value. Values recorded for physicochemical parameters were within WHO and Iraqi standards guideline values except for some samples of turbidity. According to water classification, all samples have a very similar composition, and can be classified as Ca-HCO3 water. This indicated that they correspond to different sampling points along different rivers, and different samples along the same river.

Examining the effect of forest certification on timber harvest best management practice implementation

ABSTRACT Forest certification programs are voluntary initiatives emphasizing sustainable forestry and harvest practices. Compliance with certification standards is enforced through third-party audits. One requirement of most forest certification systems is the use of best management practices during harvesting activities. These practices are designed to mitigate potential negative outcomes of forest management and timber harvesting activities. Best management practice implementation has been found to have a variety of positive outcomes on water quality and other resources. However, information relating forest certification to implementation of best management practices and environmental outcomes on certified versus noncertified lands is scant. Here, we examine the role of third-party certification as it contributes to enhanced forest stewardship via implementation of voluntary best management practices. Our study adds to the limited body of research comparing sustainability practices and outcomes on certified vs. noncertified lands. In alignment with previous research on the topic, our study suggests that adherence to best management practices is better on certified versus noncertified forests. Our findings also suggest that for large public agency ownerships, organizationally driven factors beyond forest certification (e.g. institutional policy and trained staff) influence the use of best management practices during timber harvests.

Incitis-food: Food security and environmental justice in African city regions

Incitis-food: Food security and environmental justice in African city regions Dr Buchenrieder, Dr Benjamin from the University of the Bundeswehr Munich, and Dr Radišić and MS.c. Trivunić, from Foodscale Hub, introduce the INCiTiS-FOOD project for improved food and nutrition security in African urban and peri-urban areas. With 20% of the population, ca. 282 million individuals, undernourished in Africa, the continent is facing a food and nutrition crisis of unprecedented proportions. This crisis intensifies further considering climate change as well as the state (i.e. quantity and quality) of arable land, soil, and water resources. There is an urgent need to provide nutritious and healthy food for the continent’s growing population while also taking into account the rapid urbanisation rate of 45%. So the question remains – what can be done to improve FNS in Africa’s growing city regions while reducing the food-system-related environmental footprint?

Exploring expert perceptions towards emerging pollutants and their impacts in reused wastewater and agriculture

Water sustainability involves several natural and human spheres conditioning the availability and quality of water resources and life conservation. Regarding water quality, currently emerging pollutants (EPs) are a key topic at global scale since they are difficult to remove by traditional water treatment systems. In this context, this work aims to evaluate experts’ perception of several EPs issues with a special focus on semi-arid Mediterranean areas where EPs are negatively impacting water, environmental, and agricultural systems as, in these areas, effluents from water treatment plants are widely reused in the irrigation of crops, urban gardens, and golf courses or directly discharged on natural streams. Particularly, a detailed survey composed of questions about EPs regulation, risk insight, equipment, social and economic impacts, was performed collecting 437 responses. Main results suggested that EPs existence may pose a significant risk and a destabilizing factor in wastewater reuse, with negative impacts to crop irrigation, being managers the class with more concern followed by scientifics and administratives. New EPs regulations raises uncertainty amongst experts since 29 % considered positive its creation, while 20 % estimated this fact as regular and 14 % as negative. As well, although the combination of technologies to improve EPs removal generated agreement, aspects like the treatment charges at water treatment plants or the price/bill of EPs-free water were features of ambiguity. Within EPs elimination, the three expert groups highlighted that technologies impacts in the sustainability spheres will be positive on public health (87 % of responses), social trust (75 %), and environmental sustainability (76 %). Likewise, 88 % of experts concurred that the future of wastewater reuse relies on a combination of technologies. These findings offer valuable information to water legislators and policymakers to manage water resources, especially in semi-arid areas due to the final use of treated effluents and, therefore, the great implications for agriculture, environment and human health.

Revolutionizing waste: Harnessing agro-food hydrochar for potent adsorption of organic and inorganic contaminants in water.

Constant pollution from a wide range of human activities has a negative impact on the quantity and quality of the planet's water resources. On the other hand, agro-food waste can impact climate change and other forms of life, in addition to having social, economic, and environmental consequences. However, as a result of their inherent physicochemical properties and lignocellulosic composition, these residues are becoming increasingly recognized as valuable products in line with government policies advocating zero waste and circular economies. An advantageous way to convert these wastes into energy and chemicals is hydrothermal carbonization (HTC). This review highlights the valorization of agro-food waste into hydrochar-based adsorbents for the elimination of organic and inorganic contaminants from aqueous environments. An overview of the toxicity of pollutants in aqueous environments, food waste management, as well as HTC technology was initially proposed. Then, a discussion on the conversion of major agro-food wastes into contaminant adsorbents was given in detail. Adsorption mechanisms as well as the possibility of reuse of adsorbents were also discussed. Enhanced properties of the produced materials enable them to provide competent solutions to various ecological contexts, including removing pollutants from wastewater with cost-effectiveness and satisfactory results. Besides addressing environmental concerns, this sustainable approach opens the door for more environmentally-friendly and resource-efficient applications in the future, making it an exciting prospect.

Features of organic agriculture development in Asian countries

Abstract The implementation of Sustainable Development Goals stimulates the use of new innovative technologies in production processes of the most resource-intensive types of economic activity in most countries of the world. The modern agricultural sector, which uses land and water resources to ensure food security in countries, aims to preserve soil fertility, the quality of water resources, air and biodiversity. That is why organic agriculture is gaining popularity not only in developed, but also in lower-income countries, including Asian countries. In recent years, countries such as China and India have increased the production of various types of products several times; moreover, their consumption is constantly increasing, which is the basis for achieving the goal of preserving the health of the nation. The study is aimed at identifying natural and economic factors in the development of production, consumption and export of organic products; existing risks. The choice of the object of study is due to the fact that China, India and Indonesia are the leading countries, among the top ten countries in terms of population, these countries are large in extent, in other words, the size of their territory allows them to produce various types of agricultural products; Vietnam and Thailand were chosen due to the fact that the countries are quite unique in terms of climatic conditions, which is why they produce unique types of products and have been actively increasing the production of organic products in recent years. Based on the methods of structural and comparative analysis, aligning time series, stable trends towards an increase in export volumes were identified, and the reasons for the increase in the production of organic products were substantiated.

APPLICATION OF INNOVATIVE TECHNOLOGIES IN THE FIELD OF WASTEWATER TREATMENT: FOREIGN AND KAZAKHSTANI EXPERIENCE

The article discusses modern innovative technologies used in the field of wastewater treatment. Special attention is paid to the principles of operation, advantages and applications of technologies such as membrane bioreactors, anaerobic reactors, aerobic granular precipitation, photocatalytic and electrochemical purification, as well as bio- and nanofiltration. The analysis of the experience of the implementation of these technologies in various countries, including successful cases demonstrating the improvement of the quality of water resources and increasing the efficiency of water treatment systems. The experience of Kazakhstan is considered separately, where the use of advanced wastewater treatment methods is becoming an important element of environmental safety. A comparative analysis of the effectiveness of the use of technologies in Kazakhstan and abroad is carried out, the main factors influencing the success of their implementation in the country are highlighted.

Major Ion Chemistry of Surface Water and Its Controlling Factors in Ebinur Lake Basin

The sustainable development of arid regions is significantly constrained by the availability of water resources, which play a crucial role in this context. It is necessary to deeply investigate and analyze the hydrochemical characteristics and major ion sources. This study, which was based on data from 183 water samples collected from the Jinghe River Basin, provided a comprehensive analysis of the river water hydrochemistry. The results show that the average TDSs (total dissolved solids) was measured at 49.8 mg·L−1. HCO3− (82.4%) and Ca2+ (77.1%) were the ions present in the highest abundances. The river water was classified as the HCO3−-Ca2+ hydrochemical type. The Gibbs diagrams indicated that the ion composition was primarily influenced by rock weathering. Additionally, the Na-normalized molar ratio diagrams suggested that the chemical composition was primarily governed by the weathering and dissolution of silicate rocks, while the carbonate rock dissolution played a lesser role. This study demonstrates a critical aspect of water resources quality evaluation, which is of great significance for the sustainable development, utilization and environmental protection of regional water resources.

Active pharmaceutical contaminants in drinking water: myth or fact?

Global water availability has been affected by a variety of factors, including climate change, water pollution, urbanization, and population growth. These issues have been particularly acute in many parts of the world, where access to clean water remains a significant challenge. In this context, preserving existing water bodies is a critical priority. Numerous studies have demonstrated the inadequacy of conventional water treatment processes in removing active pharmaceutical ingredients (APIs) from the water. These pharmaceutical active compounds have been detected in treated wastewater, groundwater, and even drinking water sources. The presence of APIs in water resources poses a significant threat not only to aquatic organisms but also to human health. These emerging contaminants have the potential to disrupt endocrine systems, promote the development of antibiotic-resistant bacteria, and bioaccumulate in the food chain, ultimately leading to unacceptable risks to public health. The inability of current conventional treatment methods to effectively remove APIs from water has raised serious concerns about the safety and reliability of water supplies. This issue requires immediate attention and the development of more effective treatment technologies to safeguard the quality of water resources and protect both aquatic ecosystems and human health. Other treatment methods, such as nanotechnology, microalgal treatment, and reverse osmosis, are promising in addressing the issue of API contamination in water resources. These innovative approaches have demonstrated higher removal efficiencies for a wide range of APIs compared to conventional methods, such as activated sludge and chlorination, which have been found to be inadequate in the removal of these emerging contaminants. The potential of these alternative treatment technologies to serve as effective tertiary treatment. To address this critical challenge, governments and policymakers should prioritize investment in research and development to establish effective and scalable solutions for eliminating APIs from various water sources. This should include comprehensive studies to assess the performance, cost-effectiveness, and environmental sustainability of emerging treatment technologies. The emerging contaminants should be included in robust water quality monitoring programs (Aus der Beek et al. in Environ Toxicol Chem 2016;35(4):823-835), with strict regulatory limits enforced to protect public health and the environment. By doing so, the scientific community and regulatory authorities can work together to develop a multi-barrier approach to safeguarding the water resources and ensuring access to safe, clean water for all. This review explores the potential of alternative treatment technologies to serve as viable solutions in the fight against API contamination. Innovative approaches, including nanotechnology, microalgal treatment, and reverse osmosis, have demonstrated remarkable success in addressing this challenge, exhibiting higher removal efficiencies compared to traditional methods.

Navigating micropollutant contamination: A review of industrial wastewater technologies and policies in the U.S.

With alarming levels of toxic chemicals detected in human bloodstreams owing to inadequate water treatment, industries face immense pressure to adopt effective water treatment methods while reducing their carbon footprints. However, a lack of stringent regulatory frameworks for monitoring and setting allowable chemical levels in water resources, coupled with poor industrial compliance, has allowed micropollutants to find their way into the environment, posing significant threats to ecosystems. Existing technologies are ill-equipped to eliminate micropollutants. Lengthy periods between the introduction of novel chemicals, recognition of their adverse effects, and the formulation of enforceable regulations have contributed to gaps in protecting water resources, emphasizing the necessity for collaborative efforts among policy institutions. Recent years have witnessed significant changes in water regulations, with agencies such as the EPA intensifying efforts against micropollutants like per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). Despite identifiable areas for improvement, evolving manufacturing sophistication coupled with overall advancements in regulations have spurred technology development and enhanced the quality of water resources over the past five decades, with a promise of greater strides in the future.

Importance of Macroscopic Environmental Analysis for spring preservation used for human consumption

The lack and deterioration of the quality of water resources have made governments take educational measures and required society to rethink habits concerning the preservation and conservation of water quality. Thus, the present study aims to present the importance of spring preservation for water quality conservation as well as to develop a macroscopic environmental analysis of springs located in the state of Rio Grande do Sul, Brazil. Twenty springs were observed in two different periods of the year (May and November 2019), which had different economic activities: native forest – public domain; soybean, tobacco, and pig farming – private domain, in their surroundings. The study adopted five replications (different municipalities), and a macroscopic environmental analysis was carried out in each spring to classify them according to the extent of preservation. It was observed that most of the springs show “Good” and “Very good” preservation. However, it can be concluded that the economic activities developed in the surroundings do not interfere with spring preservation, and the methodology adopted is not recommended for the macroscopic environmental analysis in areas of native forest due to the characteristics considered.

Spatial–temporal variations of sediment transport rate and driving factors in Shule River Basin, northwest China

The sediment content and transport rate of rivers are crucial indicators reflecting soil erosion, water quality, and water resource management in a region. Studying changes in river sediment transport rates within a basin is essential for evaluating water quality, restoring water ecosystems, and implementing soil and water conservation measures. This study focused on the Shule River Basin and utilized various methods such as moving average, cumulative anomaly, Mann–Kendall mutation test, Mann–Kendall (M–K) trend test, Sen’s slope estimation, Correlation analysis, wavelet analysis, R/S analysis, ARCGIS10.7 interpolation, non-uniformity coefficient, and concentration to analyze data from hydrologic stations at Changmapu (CMP), Panjiazhuang (PJZ), and Dangchengwan (DCW). The research examined the temporal and spatial characteristics of sediment transport rates and identified key driving factors. Findings revealed significant increases in annual sediment transport rates at CMP and PJZ by 12.227 and 4.318 kg/s (10a)−1, respectively, while DCW experienced a decrease of 0.677 kg/s (10a)−1. The sediment transport rate of the three stations had a sudden change around 1994. The average annual sediment transport rates displayed distinct cycles, with CMP, PJZ, and DCW showing cycles of 51a, 53a, and 29a respectively. Additionally, while CMP and PJZ exhibited a continuous upward trend in sediment transport rates, DCW showed a consistent decline. The annual average sediment transport rates of CMP, PJZ, and DCW were 1305.43 kg/s, 810.06 kg/s, and 247.80 kg/s, respectively. These research findings contribute to enhancing the comprehension of sediment dynamics in the arid region of northwest China and offer a theoretical basis for the restoration and management of ecological environments in similar areas in the future.

Predictive Functional Profiling Reveals Putative Metabolic Capacities of Bacterial Communities in Drinking Water Resources and Distribution Supply in Mega Manila, Philippines

Assessing bacterial communities across water resources is crucial for understanding ecological dynamics and improving water quality management. This study examines the functional profiles of bacterial communities in drinking water resources in Mega Manila, Philippines, including Laguna Lake tributaries, pre-treatment plant sites, groundwater sources, and post-treatment plant sites. Using eDNA sequencing, flux balance analysis, and taxonomy-to-phenotype mapping, we identified metabolic pathways involved in nutrient metabolism, pollutant degradation, antibio- tic synthesis, and nutrient cycling. Despite site variations, there are shared metabolic pathways, suggesting the influence of common ecological factors. Site-specific differences in pathways like ascorbate, aldarate, and phenylalanine metabolism indicate localized environmental adaptations. Antibiotic synthesis pathways, such as streptomycin and polyketide sugar unit biosynthesis, were detected across sites. Bacterial communities in raw and pre-treatment water showed potential for pollutant degradation such as for endocrine-disrupting chemicals. High levels of ammonia-oxidizing and sulfate-reducing bacteria in pre- and post-treatment water suggest active nitrogen removal and pH neutralization, indicating a need to reassess existing water treatment approaches. This study underscores the adaptability of bacterial communities to environmental factors, as well as the importance of considering their functional profiles in assessing drinking water quality resources in urban areas.

An integrated cyberinfrastructure system for water quality resources in the Upper Mississippi River Basin

ABSTRACT The Upper Mississippi Information System (UMIS) is a cyberinfrastructure framework designed to support large-scale real-time water-quality data integration, analysis, and visualization for the Upper Mississippi River Basin (UMRB). UMIS is intended to directly address three of the Grand Challenges for Engineering including (1) understanding access to clean drinking water, (2) management of the nitrogen cycle, and (3) engineering the tools of scientific discovery. The UMIS is designed to provide significant immediate and long-term impacts including a central platform for data access, integration, discovery, and adoption of cyberinfrastructure tools and services. The UMIS demonstrates that public data aggregators and central repositories can provide important services to anyone interested in water-quality research or education. In addition, working across multiple scales (e.g., state, region, county, or watershed) allows researchers to understand broad and narrow effects of water-quality strategies. Exploration of data across these scales encourages the development of problem-based research questions that can eventually provide feedback to public policies.