HOME HELP FEEDBACK SUBSCRIPTIONS ARCHIVE SEARCH TABLE OF CONTENTS		QUICK SEARCH:   [advanced] Author: Keyword(s): Year:  Vol:  Page:

This Article Full Text (PDF) Alert me when this article is cited Alert me if a correction is posted Services Similar articles in this journal Alert me to new issues of the journal Download to citation manager Citing Articles Citing Articles via Google Scholar Google Scholar Articles by Miller, W. W. Articles by Garret, J. R. Search for Related Content PubMed Articles by Miller, W. W. Articles by Garret, J. R. Agricola Articles by Miller, W. W. Articles by Garret, J. R.

Identification of Water Quality Differences in Nevada Through Index Application¹

ABSTRACT

The assessment of periodic changes in water quality and uniform control standards application has been difficult to attain. A potential solution to this problem is the utilization of water quality indices for preliminary screening of data and identification of geographic areas, chronological periods, and possible source and cause of water quality changes. The purpose of this investigation was to demonstrate a practical use and application of a water quality index in Nevada as an existing option for those who must assess water quality changes on a continual basis. The study examined water quality trends in portions of the Colorado, Humboldt, Snake, Walker, and Carson River Basins, Nevada, through application of an existing water quality index to historical data from control point and adjacent monitoring stations. Index ratings were responsive in characterizing changes in water quality status relative to seasonal trends and geographic location. Identification of average annual and single value control criteria violation in terms of which parameter and degree of violation was facilitated through index application. Frequency and magnitude of impact on overall water quality status was also identified. Future use of indices in this manner should prove a valuable tool in meeting legislative water quality management strategies.

Key Words: pollution • environment • return flow discharge • water quality monitoring

¹ A contribution of the Univ. of Nevada Agric. Exp. Stn. in cooperation with the Nevada State Office of the Federal Bureau of Land Management.

² W.W.M., C.N.M., and J.R.G.; Associate Professor of Soil and Water Science, Irrigation Specialist, Dep. of Plant Science, and Associate Professor of Agricultural Economics, Dep. of Agriculture and Resource Economes, respectively, College of Agriculture, Univ. of Nevada, Reno, NV. H.M.J.; Hydrologist, Bureau of Land Management, Nevada State Office, Dep. of Interior.

Received for publication December 31, 1984.