The South Dakota Department of Agriculture and Natural Resources (DANR) is seeking valuable water quality data to conduct a comprehensive assessment of the state's lakes and streams. The assessment, carried out biennially, relies on chemical, physical, and biological data to determine the overall condition of South Dakota's water resources. Additionally, DANR is requesting beach closure information to evaluate water quality concerns. This data will be made accessible to the public through DANR's Water Quality Monitoring Access Portal.
To participate, organizations must operate under an approved Quality Assurance Project Plan or comply with DANR's quality control requirements. Documentation supporting these efforts may be requested by DANR upon submission.
The deadline for submitting electronic data is September 2, 2023. The Integrated Report, compiled as part of this assessment, plays a crucial role in evaluating the health of South Dakota's surface water resources. It identifies impaired waters that may require a total maximum daily load (TMDL), which calculates the allowable pollution levels to maintain water quality standards and their associated beneficial uses. By determining TMDLs, local, state, and federal efforts can be directed towards improving the water quality of specific areas.
The deadline for completing and submitting the 2024 Integrated Report to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency is April 1, 2024.
For any inquiries or to submit water quality data, please contact Joshua Strobel at 1-800-438-3367. Electronic data can be emailed to Joshua.Strobel@state.sd.us
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Categories: South Dakota, General