Assessing Project Effectiveness

assessing the effectiveness of the project. Monthly monitoring of a few key factors (such as

dissolved oxygen or chlorophyll a) can provide useful information.

When funds are available for more extensive water quality monitoring, essential tasks and

elements include:

Developing a monitoring plan based on clearly stated water quality monitoring

objectives. Include in the plan: monitoring design, agency roles, laboratory and quality

assurance and control procedures, data storage plans, reporting requirements, personnel

needs, and costs.

Collecting sufficient pre-, during -, and post-project data to document water quality

changes. In large watersheds with lakes, water quality changes often occur gradually and

monitoring for five to 10 years, or longer, may be required to confirm changes that can be

linked to land treatment.

Assessing Project Effectiveness

Evaluate data with project objectives and goals clearly in mind. A consistent improving trend in

water quality after BMP system implementation may provide evidence needed to attribute water

quality improvements to land treatment.

Consider interviewing (pre- and post-project) participants and people who were eligible but

chose not to participate in the project to assess the effectiveness of education efforts.

Report successes and failures periodically to provide feedback to project participants and agency

staff on the results of their efforts. Make results available to the community to enhance public

education and contribute to more effective management of water quality problems in the future.

Keys to Success

Choose a Viable Project

· Choose a water resource that needs restoration or protection and is valued by community

members.

Document the Problem

· Document the water quality problem and its source.

Define Objectives and Goals

· Define obtainable objectives and goals.

Involve the Community