Above: Grace Evans assists Programs Coordinator Ryan O’Donnell (right) with collecting samples for bacteria testing.
We have been sampling streams in downtown Ipswich to test for signs of bacteria pollution. This is important, because bacterial pathogens like fecal coliform can become a water quality issue if they rise above certain levels. Our Kerry Mackin Intern Grace Evans and Endicott College intern Amanda Recupero have been collecting samples for bacteria testing, since early summer.
The results have not been conclusive, but indicate the possibility of a dry weather source of bacteria pollution coming from both Kimball Brook and especially Farley Brook. These are streams that flow through parts of downtown Ipswich where there are many storm drains that connect to the streams. Farley Brook flows almost entirely through underground pipes, with many storm drain connections. This is important, because it indicates a source other than stormwater, which is often polluted by runoff from roads and parking lots. The Ipswich River flowing through downtown Ipswich is relatively clean, so there is no immediate threat from these small streams. Monitoring was funded in part by the Merrimack Conservation Partnership.
Our goal is to increase bacteria monitoring in order to identify hotspots in Ipswich and elsewhere. With this knowledge we can work towards the solutions for water quality issues. Interns, like Grace and Amanda have been vital to the success of summer programs and building capacity for monitoring activities like this. We greatly appreciate their contributions as well as that of the many volunteers who work with us to protect the river in a variety of ways.