The bacterial count:turbidity correlation was the subject of some debate amidst our group a few years ago. My recollection is that Gary Bissonnette (WVU Prof. Microbiology) asserted that there was not consistently a positive association. We can expect that the association will be strongest when a hard rain occurs following a dry spell during which fecal matter accumulates in the environment. Events which lead to soil erosion/runoff will elevate turbidity without elevating fecal coliform counts. Conversely, poor sewage control will elevate coliforms without necessarily impacting turbidity. Deb

CLEAR Monitoring Instruments

1. We now own a LaMotte 2020e Turbidity Meter. The “e” indicates that this instrument meets EPA guidelines for turbidity measurement. This is a portable

meter with calibration solutions provided for accuracy. It can store data for subsequent downloading. Approximately half the cost was covered by our Stream Partners grant and the remainder from our general fund.

2. We now have twelve votes in favor of the purchase of a handheld pH meter that can also do conductivity and temperature. With help from Tim Craddock of WV-DEP, we have selected the Oakton EW-35630-02 Multimeter. This is a handheld device with three-in-one multi-sensor probe with 10 foot submersible cable for pH, conductivity and temperature. Three-point pH calibration and four-point conductivity calibration provides for high accuracy. The price is $587.

In addition to three or four boats available for summer use, Mike Strager has volunteered to put his fishing boat to use in Lake monitoring during the (winter) months of low pool height. We also plan to continue monitoring from various shore line points throughout the year. Generally, days of high bacterial count also have elevated turbidity, although a specific high turbidity does not predict a specific level of fecal coliform or E. coli.

PLEASE LET ME KNOW A.S.A.P. IF YOU HAVE ANY FURTHER QUESTIONS OR COMMENTS, AS WE NEED TO USE SOME OF THIS MONEY OR RETURN IT TO THE MONONGALIA COUNTY COMMISSION.

Thank you, Duane