Real time water-quality data are
now easily accessible online through the USGS WaterQualityWatch website
(http://water.usgs.gov/waterwatch/wqwatch).

Continuous real-time information
on water quality is a vital asset that helps safeguard lives and property
and ensures adequate water resources for a healthy economy.

Real-time water quality measurements
are available at more than 1,300 sites across the United States in streams
with watersheds as small as a few square miles to more than a million square
miles in the Mississippi River. Measurements include streamflow, water
temperature, specific conductance, pH, dissolved oxygen, and turbidity.

"Real-time water information
is breaking new ground in science and technology and is proving to be very
useful, helping local water managers make important daily decisions, such
as regarding drinking water, water treatment, recreation, and public safety
on beaches throughout the U.S." said Matthew Larsen, USGS Acting Associate
Director for Water.

The public also uses the on-line
data to decide whether conditions, such as water temperature or turbidity,
are favorable for recreational activities such as fishing, boating or swimming.

Access additional USGS real-time
water information sites by visiting WaterWatch for surface water information
(http://water.usgs.gov/waterwatch/)
and Ground-Water Watch (http://groundwaterwatch.usgs.gov/).