Water Quality Issues in St. Joseph Bay Aquatic Preserve

Water quality monitoring has become an important part of the aquatic preserve's role in understanding the bay's natural processes. Monitoring water quality allows researchers to document short-term variability and long-term changes in the status of the bay's health, and facilitates in implementing appropriate protection for waterways. The collected data can be used to gain a better understanding of how water quality is impacted and will help us understand the important role we play in water conservation. Good water quality is essential to the production of healthy seafood, enjoyable recreational activity and many other aspects of our lives.

Goals:

• Develop a better understanding of the bay’s water quality to maintain and/or improve water quality within the aquatic preserve while providing for the safety and enjoyment of those who use the marine resources.
• Provide timely and accurate water quality data and information to the public and other entities/agencies.