River Science
Protecting Rivers: OARS' Vital Water Science Studies
OARS conducts water science studies to safeguard the health of the Sudbury, Assabet, and Concord rivers, ensuring these vital waterways remain clean and vibrant. These studies are crucial for identifying and addressing pollution sources, monitoring water quality, and understanding the impacts of climate change. By collecting and analyzing data, OARS helps protect the rivers’ ecosystems, ensuring safe habitats for wildlife and maintaining the natural beauty and recreational value of these rivers. These efforts are vital for the communities that depend on the rivers for drinking water, recreation, and overall well-being, promoting a healthier environment for both people and nature.
Visit our water quality page to explore OARS’ ongoing water quality monitoring efforts, which have been conducted since 1992 with the help of citizen scientist volunteers. Learn about the major water quality issues affecting the Sudbury, Assabet, and Concord rivers, including eutrophication, dissolved oxygen levels, bacteria, phosphorus, algae, mercury, and invasive plants. Access in-depth findings from OARS’ water quality studies.
Learn about OARS’ monitoring and research of the SuAsCo rivers. Our studies are designed to ensure that management decisions are founded on reliable scientific data. We research different aspects of river health, such as water quality, streamflow, bacteria levels, conductivity, chloride, and the effects of wastewater treatment plant upgrades.
Annual River Health Insights
OARS’ Annual Water Quality Report is crucial for understanding the health of the Sudbury, Assabet, and Concord rivers, providing detailed data and analysis on water quality trends and pollution sources.
OARS’ Water Quality Reports provide science-based assessments of the Sudbury, Assabet, and Concord rivers, offering insights into trends and challenges affecting their health. These comprehensive reports highlight data from extensive monitoring efforts, including water temperature fluctuations, conductivity levels, dissolved oxygen trends, pH variations, and nutrient concentrations like total phosphorus and nitrate. They serve as essential resources for understanding the rivers’ ecological status, guiding informed management decisions, and community engagement efforts to protect these vital waterways.
ECOLOGICAL RESTORATION
Removing defunct dams, managing invasive species, and more to restore the natural ecology and free flowing nature of rivers
LEARN ABOUT ECOLOGICAL RESTORATIONRESOURCE LIBRARY
Dive into Knowledge: Explore OARS' Resource Library for Expert Insights on River Health and Conservation.
VISIT LIBRARYGET INVOLVED
OARS depends on YOU to keep our rivers clean and protected. Check out the many different ways you can get involved
EXPLORE HOW YOU CAN HELPDONATE
Help ensure the health and resilience of our three Rivers for future generations by giving a today, work depends on you!
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