USBR collected this data to evaluate the physical properties of the water (dissolved oxygen, pH, temperature, turbidity, specific conductance), common pathogens (coliform bacteria and Escherichia coli), and inorganic chemicals (such as heavy metals, fertilizers, and radiation). Organic chemicals such as common herbicides, pesticides and petroleum hydrocarbons were also monitored at sites showing the greatest potential for upstream industrial or agricultural contamination. In addition to this water quality investigation a separate project plan was initiated to address uptake of contaminates into vegetation (cattails) consumed by Tribal members. Sediment and plant material were collected from Reservation wetlands and analyzed for metals, radioactivity and organochlorine pesticides to test if there is a correlation between surface water, sediments and plant uptake. USBR collected the data to help the Fallon Paiute-Shoshone Tribe (FPST) gain information and help manage Tribal natural resources, a water quality investigation.

The EPA is publishing this data in support of the Carson River Mercury NPL Site in Nevada. Data was compiled and evaluated for the OU2 Remedial Investigation Report (EPA, 2017), which describes the nature and extent of contamination from the Site. The report contains the Human Health Risk Assessment and Ecological Risk Assessment. Literature and other source Hg data are summarized in the RI for surface waters, sediments, and biological tissues.