Watershed Monitoring Studies

Summary


The Water Quality group uses watershed monitoring studies to collect background data on the watersheds and highlight certain issues that might need more investigation. Although the Water Quality group regularly monitors Durham's streams, these studies collect a range of data outside of the normal monthly sampling data we collect and give us more information about specific water quality issues. 

  1. 1
  2. 2
  1. Lick, Brier, & Stirrup Iron Creeks
  2. Eno River

Summary

The watershed monitoring study for Brier, Lick, & Stirrup Iron Creeks focused on water quality, sediment quality, and biological community health. The study found elevated concentrations of dissolved copper in Stirrup Iron Creek, elevated numbers of fecal coliform bacteria in Lick Creek, and elevated turbidity in both Stirrup Iron and Lick Creek.

Some of the ways the City of Durham is working in the Brier, Lick, and Stirrup Iron watersheds include investigating sediment pollution, performing public education, and encouraging residents to use our stormwater pollution prevention hotline (919-560-7946) if they see water pollution.  We have also performed stream restoration and stream bank plantings in the Lick Creek watershed.

Project Manager

Joseph Smith

919-560-4326 ext 30217

Relevant Documents

Brier, Lick, and Stirrup Iron Creeks Watershed Monitoring Study Final Report

Project Status: Completed 2022