Journal
JOURNAL OF THE AMERICAN WATER RESOURCES ASSOCIATION
Volume 37, Issue 1, Pages 125-137Publisher
AMER WATER RESOURCES ASSOC
DOI: 10.1111/j.1752-1688.2001.tb05480.x
Keywords
water quality; water quality index; water quality management; spatial analysis; time series analysis; environmental indicator; water resource education
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The Oregon Water Quality Index (OWQI) is a single number that expresses water quality by integrating measurements of eight water quality variables (temperature, dissolved oxygen, biochemical oxygen demand, pH, ammonia+nitrate nitrogen, total phosphorus, total solids, and fecal coliform). Its purpose is to provide a simple and concise method for expressing the ambient water quality of Oregon's streams for general recreational use, including fishing and swimming. The OWQI, originally developed in the 1970s, has been updated based upon improved understanding about water quality behavior. This report describes the historical basis of the OWQI and defines the improved design of the present OWQI. The index allows users to easily interpret data and relate overall water quality variation to variations in specific categories of impairment. This report demonstrates the value of the OWQI in presenting spatial and temporal water quality information. The OWQI improves comprehension of general water quality issues, communicates water quality status, and illustrates the need for and effectiveness of protective practices.
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