Turbidity Threshold Sampling for the Rest of Us

Finally, a simple way to accurately determine suspended sediment and nutrient loads.

We didn’t invent the concept of Turbidity Threshold Sampling (that distinction goes to Rand Eads and Jack Lewis of the USDA Forest Service). But we did invent the concept of a turn-key system that uses this effective method of intelligent, automated grab sampling that requires no programming and minimal reliance on consultants to install and maintain.

In efforts to manage and mitigate the environmental impact of suspended sediment the Clean Water Act introduced TMDLs (total maximum daily loads), calculations of the maximum amount of suspended sediment and other contaminants for a given waterbody.

While suspended sediment concentration (SSC) cannot be directly measured accurately or reliably, turbidity has been shown to be an excellent surrogate for SSC. Turbidity is caused by suspended particulate matter such as clay, silt, algae, organic and inorganic chemicals and acids like fertilizers, and microscopic organisms like harmful bacteria. These contents give water its cloudy or turbid appearance, and turbidity in natural waters is recognized as an important indicator of natural health.

Measuring suspended sediment concentrations used to be labor-intensive, costly, inaccurate and impractical. SedEvent not only makes it possible and practical, it makes it simple.