FIRE BAN IN EFFECT In response to the continued elevated risk of wildfires, DEM has issued a fire ban at all State Parks, campgrounds, and management areas until further notice. The ban is effective as of today (10/28/24) and includes campfires in designated campfire areas, including charcoal fires and cooking fires. This preventative measure applies to all DEM-managed lands and aims to reduce the threat of human-caused wildfires. DEM will continue to monitor and evaluate conditions to determine when the ban can be lifted. Together we can protect our communities and keep first responders safe by reducing the risk of wildfires: 📞 Call 911 if you spot a fire/smoke. Timely information is critical to contain fires before they spread. 🔥 Remember, any outdoor fire is a potential source for a wildfire. Be careful with cigarettes and ashes. When disposing of wood stove ashes, put the ashes in a metal bucket of water. 🚒 Check with your local fire department for any other restrictions and permitting information. 🚨 Stay informed and find resources at dem.ri.gov/wildfirestatus.
Ambient River Monitoring DEM's Ambient River Monitoring (ARM) Program conducts monitoring during the seasonal period of late spring to early fall. Water quality samples are collected for chemical and pathogen lab analysis. Additional physical data is measured during field visits. It is implemented as a key component of DEM’s rotating basin strategy for monitoring wadeable rivers and streams. All samples are taken in accordance with a USEPA-approved Quality Assurance Project Plan. In the ARM program, monitoring occurs at approximately 60 targeted stations per year in selected watersheds using protocols specified in the program’s quality assurance program plan (QAPP) which includes a list of water quality parameters associated with the program. The data RIDEM collects is used to characterize general river and stream conditions, identify pollution problems and their causes, support development of water quality restoration plans (known as TMDLs), and contribute to environmental management and decision-making. Persons interested in the data generated from this program may contact Jane Sawyers at Jane.Sawyers@dem.ri.gov or (401)-222-4700 ext. 2777239. In 2023, the Scituate, Pawtuxet, Upper Moosup (drains to CT), and Five Mile (drains to CT) watersheds will be targeted for sampling bacteria and water chemistry. The stations selected are pictured. ADDITIONAL RESOURCES Water Quality Surface Water Monitoring Surface Water Quality Standards River and Stream Monitoring Biological Monitoring in Rivers and Streams Aquatic Invasive Species DOCUMENTS Rhode Island Water Monitoring Strategy Integrated Water Quality Monitoring and Assessment Reporting