About this dataset
This program follows Water Rangers' standard testing protocols. Water samples are tested using Water Rangers Freshwater Explorer testkit, Winter testkit and the new E. coli testkit, which makes use of R-cards. Baseline water quality monitoring is conducted monthly with occasional blitzes to monitor chloride during periods of heavy precipitation and melting events throughout the winter months. Similar blitzes to measure E. coli concentrations occur during the swimming season.
Certification requirements
Lake Erie Rangers attend an in-person or virtual training workshop led by Water Rangers.
The session covers an overview of baseline water quality parameters and a discussion around the expected values and applicable guidelines for healthy waterways. Volunteers receive a demonstration and hands-on practice with the equipment in their Water Rangers testkits.
Parameters tested include:
- Air and water temperature, conductivity, dissolved oxygen, pH, alkalinity, hardness, chlorine, Secchi depth, water depth, winter roadsalt (chloride), E. coli and qualitative parameters.
Following the session, each volunteer completes a short quiz to test their knowledge on the test methods. Additional guidance around good data collecting and reporting practices is also shared.
