Baseline chemical water quality parameters were analyzed in the Fox River in Southeastern Wisconsin in anticipation of decreased treated effluent discharge (6 MGD to 1 MGD) from the Waukesha Clean Water Plant (CWP) as of summer 2023. Waukesha’s switch to Lake Michigan water from a ground water supply necessitates return of that treated water to Lake Michigan via the Root River. Six sampling episodes were conducted in summer 2022 across ten sampling sites covering a 35 mile stretch of the river. This Year 5 study contributes to longitudinal sampling began in 2018. In-situ measurements included pH, temperature, dissolved oxygen (DO), and alkalinity. Heavy metals (Cu, Pb, Cr, Zn, Ni, and Cd) and base cations (Mg, K, Na, and Ca) were quantified through inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry. Anions (NO3-, SO42-, and Cl-) were analyzed via ion chromatography. Mercury was measured with a Hg analyzer. A suite of approximately 60 micropollutants (PPCPs – pharmaceuticals and personal care products) were screened after extraction by lyophilization and analysis by LC-MSMS. The classes of PPCPs include antibiotics, hormones, NSAIDs, preservatives, disinfectants, fragrances, and sunscreens. The pH, temperature, DO and alkalinity ranges were consistent with prior years: 7.2-8.5, 15.1-27.6°C, 4.4-12.1 mg/L, and 180-300 mg/L, respectively. The anion analysis also was consistent with prior years, with detection of only chloride, nitrate, and sulfate. All heavy metals were at or below detection limits. The PPCP analysis is ongoing. Based on initial analysis of the MSMS spectra from one episode, it is expected that about half of the target analytes will be detected at parts-per-trillion levels.

Examining Fox River water quality for ecologically significant ions and urban micropollutants in anticipation of the Waukesha municipal water supply switch

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