Long-term water quality monitoring on the Altamaha River and major tributaries from September 2000 through April 2009

Water samples were collected from the Altamaha River (approximately weekly) and several tributaries (bimonthly) from September 2000 through September 2001. Samples were then collected at less frequent intervals from September 2001 through April 2009. The concentration of dissolved nutrients (ammonium, nitrate+nitrite, phosphate, silicate), dissolved organics (DOC, DON, DOP) and total suspended solids were measured using standard methods. The concentrations of 20 elements (Al, B, Ba, Ca, Cd, Co, Cr, Cu, Fe, K, Mg, Mn, Mo, Na, Ni, P, Pb, Si, Sr and Zn) were also determined using elemental analysis by inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry (ICP-MS). Total dissolved inorganic carbon (DIC) was measured using a custom automated DIC analyzer. Total alkalinity (TA)was determined by Gran titration and pH of surface water was measured using a glass electrode.