Dataset Description:

The Water Quality System (QWDATA), a component of the National Water Information System (NWIS), was developed by the US Geological Survey and serves as a water quality data storage and retrieval system for the agency. Information about the biological, chemical and physical attributes of streams, reservoirs, springs, wells, etc. are included in the dataset. Descriptive geographical information (lat-long coordinates, basin, topographic map name, county, etc.) about these same water quality sampling sites (both surface and ground water) reside in the Ground Water Site Inventory (GWSI) site file, also part of NWIS. Water quality records stored in the system represent a variety of data types and measurement frequencies as sampled by the USGS across a vast network of stations in the State of Wyoming. Where possible, surface water samples have been obtained at or near streamgaging stations to aid interpretation of the data. Specific fields within the QWDATA system include sample date and time, sample media and depth, observed parameter value, methods of collection, laboratory, quality assurance codes, remark codes, etc. Please note that not all information may be available. Data from NWIS, including water quality, is now available for viewing or downloading on the USGS website at http://water.usgs.gov/wy/nwis/

Dataset Utility:

The USGS Water Quality System provides data from the most comprehensive network of water quality stations in the state. Samples stored on the system are collected through various USGS monitoring programs using standardized methods of collection and analyses. Investigations have shown that while USGS data for Wyoming are also available on national water quality databases such as EPA STORET, the most complete, accurate records for USGS water quality monitoring in Wyoming reside on local USGS district computers. It should be noted that additional water quality information for this basin may be available from the Montana District of the USGS for sites located near the Wyoming state line. Counts listed represent unique USGS surface water quality sampling sites within the basin.

District Chief US Geological Survey Water Resources Division 2617 E. Lincolnway Suite B Cheyenne, WY 82001-5662 (307) 778-2931 http://wy.water.usgs.gov

Parameter:	900+ parameters statewide
	(ground and surface waters)
Unit/Statistic:	NA
Currentness:	Historical/Continuing
Format:	Digital
Distribution Policy:	Limited to data checked and reviewed.
	Arrangements available for provisional data.
Fee:	Conditional
Method of Access:	Contact source agency
Secondary Access:	Water Resources Data System (WRDS)
	Environmental Protection Agency (EPA)

Last Modified: Thursday, 13 September 2007

Index of the Statewide Data Inventory
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