What do the scores mean?

Blue Water Baltimore uses Maryland Tributary Assessment (MTAC) protocol to calculate annual Ecosystem Health scores for each of the parameters we monitor.

Screen Shot 2019-04-25 at 2.12.09 PM.png

Legend

  • 90-100%: The selected parameter is considered “very good” in terms of water quality.  Very good water quality tends to support very good habitat conditions for fish and shellfish.  An overall score of “very good” means the site is in pristine condition.

  • 80-89%:  The selected parameter is considered “good” in terms of water quality.  Good water quality often leads to good habitat condition.

  • 70-79%:  The selected parameter is considered “moderate” or “fair” in terms of water quality.

  • 60-69%:  The selected parameter is considered “poor” in terms of water quality.  Poor water quality often leads to poor habitat conditions.

  • 0-59%: The selected parameter is considered very poor for water quality.  Very poor water quality cannot sustain healthy habitat conditions for fish and shellfish.  An overall score of “very poor” means the site is in impaired condition.

  • grey:  The selected parameter is not scored with MTAC protocol, or the parameter does not pertain to this site.