A NOVEL WATER QUALITY MONITORING PROGRAM FOR NANTUCKET SOUND: Plan Development for the Cape Cod Commercial Hook Fishermen’s Association

Abstract

Water quality in Nantucket Sound has historically been viewed as pristine and un-polluted; however, in recent years signs of non-point source pollution have become evident. Proliferation of nuisance algae and declines in fish stock have led to a belief amongst local citizens that the waters of Nantucket Sound are no longer as clean as previously thought. The objective of this project was to develop a water quality monitoring program for Nantucket Sound to establish a baseline for conducting future water quality assessments. Through volunteering with the National Park Service and conducting online research a water quality monitoring program was established. Working with the Cape Cod Commercial Fisherman’s Association I determined the feasibility of using fishers’ vessels as monitoring platforms for conducting water quality research in Nantucket Sound. Fishers’ skills, knowledge and increasing awareness as stewards of ocean resources suggest they can be important assets for water quality monitoring efforts. The plan describes water quality parameters that will be measured, monitoring sites and frequency, fisher teams, field protocol, and quality control. Furthermore, estimated costs for the project are presented and responsibility for data management and analysis are addressed. This plan aims to provide a basic framework and guidelines for monitoring water quality in Nantucket Sound and is open to further recommendations and revisions.