Total Solids

This water quality measure (also referred to as total residue) has two different forms, dissolved solids and suspended solids. Dissolved solids are the portions of solid matter found in a water sample that pass through a filter. Suspended solids are those solids trapped by a filter, and can include anything from silt and plankton to industrial wastes and sewage. Decaying plant and animal matter that is converted into particulate matter within the river is another form of suspended solids.

Dissolved or materials may include calcium, sodium bicarbonate, nitrogen, phosphorous, iron, sulfur and other ions found in a body of water. A constant level of dissolved or inorganic materials is essential for the existence of aquatic life. Many of these dissolved ions, such as nitrogen, phosphorous and sulfur, are building blocks of molecules that are necessary for life for aquatic plants and organisms.

High concentrations of total solids in a river or lake can lower water quality and cause water balance problems for individual organisms. Low concentrations of total solids may limit the growth of aquatic life. Remember that dissolved solids may include nitrogen or phosphorous, so , for example, are totally dependent on the dissolved solid level in the water.

High concentrations of dissolved solids can lead to laxative effects in drinking water and create an unpleasant mineral taste in the water. High concentrations of suspended solids also reduce water clarity, contribute to a decrease in , bind with toxic compounds and heavy metals, and lead to an increase in water temperature through greater absorption of sunlight by surface waters.

Why is the amount of total solids in the water so high?

What types of runoff sources can you find in the ? (hint: salt from streets, fertilizers)

Check out your local map - are there any wastewater treatment plants in the watershed?

Did you make sure not to disturb the river bottom too much when sampling?

Can you find any sources of soil erosion nearby? Can you find any decaying plant or animal matter that has been converted into particulate matter within the river?

What is the cause(s) of your problem? What did you find that led you to this conclusion?

Now is the time for ACTION!