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9-18-2006 |
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THE WEST VIRGINIA DEPARTMENT OF AGRICULTURE RELEASES A SIX YEAR POTOMAC HEADWATERS WATER QUALITY REPORT Commissioner Gus R. Douglass has announced that the West Virginia Department of Agriculture has published a comprehensive report of the results from six years of water quality monitoring along the headwaters of the Potomac River. The report includes nutrient and bacteria data findings collected between July 1998 and June 2004. In 1996, segments of seven rivers within West Virginia’s Potomac watershed were placed on West Virginia’s 303(d) list of impaired water bodies due to fecal coliform bacteria. Out of concern that the listing of these waters was based on insufficient data, the Department of Agriculture began a water quality sampling program in 1998 to collect additional data that would more accurately establish the condition of these streams. In the next six years, over 13,000 samples were collected from 100 sites. All of the sampling sites were in basins that were affected by human influences. Therefore, water quality in all of the sites show the signature of human uses of the land. Commissioner Douglass stated, “I believe that farming in West Virginia is not only an important contributor to our economy, but also adds to the natural beauty and heritage of the Mountain State. In an effort to continue to preserve our resources, the West Virginia Department of Agriculture strives to promote farming while encouraging and supporting the implementation of Best Management Practices. Thanks to the pioneering spirit and cooperation of landowners and state and federal agencies, we are continuing to make considerable progress in tracking and controlling potential contamination in the Potomac River Basin.” In addition to the full report, the department has also published a synopsis report. Both reports can be accessed online at www.wvagriculture.org. Printed copies and CD copies can be requested by calling 304-538-2397, or writing to West Virginia Department of Agriculture, 60B Industrial Park Road, Moorefield, West Virginia 26836. The West Virginia Department of Agriculture protects plant, animal and human health through a variety of scientific, regulatory and consumer protection programs, as mandated by state law. The Commissioner of Agriculture is one of six statewide elected officials in West Virginia. Currently, Commissioner Gus R. Douglass is the longest-serving agriculture commissioner in the nation. For more information, visit www.wvagriculture.org.
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©2001, 2002 West Virginia Department of Agriculture, All Rights Reserved |
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