How do I access historical water-quality data?

How at search for discrete water-quality data

Start at http://waterdata.usgs.gov/nwis (this link opens in a new window).

Step 1

Click on the blue Water quality button.

Step 2

Click on the blue Field/lab samples button.

Step 3

Search for sites with water-quality data that meet particular criteria.  In this example, "Site type", "Period of record", and "Sample medium type" are selected.   Click submit.

Step 4

Select the specific attributes for your retrieval.  In this example, all lake sites with samples collected in 2010 for bottom material will be retrieved.

Step 5

Scroll down and choose how you would like to see the list of sites that meet your criteria. In this example, a table of sites was selected, sorted by Site Number.   Click Submit.

Step 6

Review the list of sites found. If you are satisfied with the retrieval criteria you selected and are ready to view or retrieve the water-quality data for ALL sites you your list, use the browser "Back" button to return to the previous page.  Your previous selection criteria from Step 4 will still be listed.

Scroll down to the "Retrieve Water-Quality Samples for Selected Sites" section.  Select the type of output desired.

Hint: Click on the button for help with any option.

In the example below, a table of data listing expanded attributes was selected.

Click Submit.

Step 7

Your retrieval will be displayed in the window or saved to a file, depending on the choices you made.  Congratulations!