Our testing is driven by the sample and analysis plan which we derived with the help of a water quality consultant, said Phillips. That plan was submitted to the Wyoming DEQ for approval, that`s the plan Tina follows when she`s testing. The plan was submitted to the DEQ in 2000, water testing began in 2001, with the testing for the project completed in 2003. Water samples were sent to one private lab and one state lab for chemical and biological analysis over the course of the project.

Twenty parameters were assessed at the 19 chemical sites which, among other tests, were analyzed for temperature; PH levels; bacteria such as E. Coli and fecal coliform, nonmetals such as solids in waters; and major ions like sulfate, ammonia and nitrates. Physical assessments at seven sites considered stream banks, type of rocks on the stream bed, and surrounding riparian areas. Biological assessments addressed numbers of fish seen, plant life in the water and bug life.

These tests are referred to as BURP (Beneficial Uses Reconnaissance Protocol) samples, which are established by the DEQ. Thirty-four conservation districts across the state are involved in the water quality assessment process and Phillips said, there would have been ramifications if we had not implemented a water monitoring program.