The Water Quality Surveys Section was created as a part of the TMDL Program initiative. A wide range of biological, physical, and chemical data necessary for TMDL calculation is collected by these scientists during the intensive surveys. Other scientists in the TMDL program use the data collected to assess the impaired waterbodies of Louisiana. Assessment of data gathered may result in water quality standards revisions (UAAs), delistings, or TMDL development.

The knowledge and expertise of the Water Quality Surveys Section are imperative to producing scientifically sound TMDLs. In planning TMDL studies, the environmental scientists conduct field reconnaissance to determine accessibility of specific locations, evaluate conditions (weirs, beaver dams, etc.), equipment needed, etc. During the planning phase of intensive surveys, hydrology engineers meet with Water Quality Surveys' scientists to determine the goals of the survey. LDEQ hydrology engineers use the intensive survey data in TMDL models, which determine load reductions, etc. The environmental scientists in Water Quality Surveys employ several methods of collecting data from Louisiana's waterbodies: time of travel, stream geometry, water quality, discharges, reaeration, stream flow, etc. The data gathered during these intensive surveys may be used for TMDL calculation, use attainability analysis (UAA), or delisting of a waterbody deemed to be meeting current water quality standards. For more detailed explanations of our intensive surveys, go to the links below:

Time-of-Travel Studies (See pictures of our field work)

Metals Sampling using Clean Techniques