ERG Wins Work Monitoring Water Quality in Massachusetts

ERG was selected to help the Massachusetts Department of Environmental Protection (MassDEP) develop its Final Statewide Total Maximum Daily Load (TMDL) for rivers and streams affected by pathogens. TMDLs—calculations of the maximum amount of a pollutant that can enter a waterbody while still meeting water quality standards—are important for improving water quality, as they bridge water quality standards and pollution control actions.  

To support MassDEP in developing the TMDL, ERG will develop a detailed sampling and analysis plan, conduct monthly monitoring of the relevant waterbodies for E. coli and other bacteria, and perform microbial source tracking analysis. The ERG team will oversee field operations, coordinate land access, and manage chain-of-custody procedures. ERG will validate the data and synthesize results into a regulation-ready technical memo to help MassDEP implement the TMDL. 

“ERG has supported water quality and environmental programs across the Commonwealth of Massachusetts for decades, and we are pleased to continue that work in partnership with MassDEP on this important project," said Zak Erickson, lead biologist.