Volunteers collect stream samples monthly to get a "snapshot" of water quality conditions in their area

Sampling takes place the second Saturday of each month from March - November

Located in the Lower Little Miami Watershed:  tributaries and main stem of the Little Miami River in Hamilton and Clermont Counties

SSS has two key components:  water quality monitoring and public education to inform residents about ways they can help protect and preserve the River

As the only National Scenic River that flows through a major metropolitan area, the Little Miami River faces pollution threats from urbanization, agriculture and industry

When high levels of nutrients go undetected in the river, toxic algae outbreaks can occur, threatening drinking water and public health

SSS shares data with communities & responsible parties to address issues and inform watershed planning and protection activities

Separate from the SSS sampling, volunteers collect samples with a provided Salt Watch kit, to get a "test" of salt conditions in their area.

Road salt helps people travel safely in the winter. But it doesn't stay on roads: it washes off into streams, where it damages the quality of our drinking water and hurts critters that aren't adapted to life in salty environments. 

Sampling can be taken anytime it's safe to approach the waterway, but it is most beneficial to sample from November - March:

Before a winter storm, to find out the "normal" level of salt in your stream

After salt has been applied to roads

After the first warm day or rainstorm following a snow or freeze

After the next rain event