1. Collection of more frequent TSS and TP data for the Genesee River - Through this project, EPA Region 2 and USGS propose to increase the sampling spatial coverage of TSS, TP and SRP measurements, sampling at additional sites through the Genesee River Watershed. These data will increase our understanding of watershed and nearshore nutrient impairments and the sampling program will support the Integrated Nearshore Framework to be implemented under the revised GLWQA, Annex 2, Lakewide Management. The monitoring will inform the development of Lake Ontario Ecosystem Objectives and Substance Objectives such as nutrient objectives, and other potential threats to water quality, and help to identify and engage appropriate agencies in implementing prevention and protection strategies for the lake. 2. Pilot Study to Evaluate BMP Effectiveness and contributions - Monitoring receiving waters before and after best practices are implemented would provide valuable quantitative information on (1) the effectiveness of the practices on sediment and nutrient loading and (2) loading of sediment and nutrients from smaller watersheds within the larger Genesee River basin. This information should then guide both the selection of most appropriate practices and also target sub-basins (smaller watersheds) that should be given priority for these practices to most effectively and efficiently utilize GLRI funds to meet the goal of sediment and nutrient reduction. In general, the outcomes and outputs will include, but may not be limited to: monitoring data to support or improve EQUIP projects, a larger data set of relevant parameters for the Genesee River and the watershed, lessons learned, and transferability of the project design and implementation to other areas of the Great Lakes.
