Site 1 - Crescent Beach (north of Leddy Park)

Burlington Storm Water Runoff Data

Total Phosphorus Results from Summer Testing (ug/L)
(location of sites given on left)

Real-time data on Burlington runoff is available from an autosampler located in the College St. storm drain. Also check out the data on total suspended solids (TSS) and volatile solids and coliform bacteria and E. coli

What do these numbers mean?

Phosphorous is a plant nutrient. High levels of phosphorous can stimulate the growth of algae causing algal blooms. Algal blooms cause the water to turn green, reduce water transparency, deplete the oxygen supply, and create odor problems. Ultimately, these blooms alter fish and wildlife habitat, impair scenic views, reduce recreational appeal, impair water supplies, and lower property values. Algal blooms are a result of eutrophication. Phosphorous contributors include farm and urban runoff, and municipal wastewater treatment plants.

The 2000 Vermont Water Quality Standards state: "In all waters, total phosphorus loadings shall be limited so that they will not contribute to the acceleration of eutrophication or the stimulation of the growth of aquatic biota in a manner that prevents the full support of uses."

In addition, phosphorus criteria for Lake Champlain have been established and range from 0.010 mg/l (as P) for the main lake to 0.054 mg/l for the south lake B. The criterion for Burlington Bay is 0.014 mg/l or 14 ug/L (compare this number to the measurements in the table above).