PROJECT
Water Quality Testing Resumes
The Newtown Creek Coalition has resumed water quality testing of Newtown Creek. Regular sampling will be scheduled several times a year at three locations: in Newtown Grant, below Hidden Lake Dam, and at Barclay Street. Special attention will be given to elevated water quality parameters that may pose risks to aquatic life, particularly sensitive species.
The results from most of the physical and chemical tests were within acceptable levels for good-excellent water quality.
Test Results from October 9, 2024
On October 9, 2024, water samples were collected from three locations on Newtown Creek under baseflow conditions, when groundwater is the primary source of streamflow. Sampling
sites included:
- South Drive, Newtown Grant (headwaters)
- Below Hidden Lake Dam, Washington Crossing Road (mainstem)
- Barclay Street (mainstem, furthest downstream)
In-field measurements were taken for % NaCl, chloride (Cl⁻ ppm), nitrate (ppm), nitrite (ppm), electrical conductivity (µS/cm), and temperature (°C). Results are summarized below:
Table 1. Water Quality Results – October 9. 2024
At all three sites, nitrite was not detected, and nitrate was only present at the most downstream site (Barclay Street). Chloride and NaCl were detected at all locations, with concentrations increasing downstream. Electrical conductivity readings were consistent with values previously reported in the watershed.
ANOTHER NCC PROJECT