Sample Collection Events

Volunteers can collect samples for the Chesapeake Water Watch any day of the year, but sometimes we host special collection events. During these events, we highlight days where data makes an extra impact. On these days we often offer special sample drop-off hours, open additional testing sites, and test all the samples for you (even at self-testing locations!).  

To more about upcoming events and how to take samples, keep scrolling! 

Upcoming Collection Events

HydroColor Collection Day: April 9th, 2025

Grab your gray card and head out to your favorite dock! HydroColor Collection days are great ways to collect data for the Chesapeake Water Watch while there is a satellite overhead! Don't forget to upload your observations to FieldScope so the whole CWW community can see your findings. 

You'll need a: 

• CWW Datasheet
• An 18% Photography Gray Card
• A clipboard (optional, but recommended)
• A smart phone with the HydroColor App downloaded  

To learn how to take a HydroColor Sample, you can watch this training video. 

Satellites and Samples: April 14th, 2025, August 12th, 2025 (Click on dates to learn more)

There will be two high-resolution satellites, Landsat-9 and Sentinel-2a, gracing the skies above the Chesapeake Bay. We can use your water samples to improve the water quality monitoring algorithms for not one but two satellites. 

Getting involved is as easy as 1,2,3! :

1. Collect a water and/or HydroColor sample from the Bay or from any tidal river that flows into the Bay
2. Fill out a quick data sheet
3. Drop off your sample at a nearby collection hub

Your small act can make a big impact in monitoring our coastal ecosystems. Don't miss out on the fun!

What You'll Need for Water Collection Events

Common Collection Hubs

*For Collection Events: check the "Events Page" for the most accurate information about drop-off locations *

Please note: During collection events, most "self-testing" sites become drop-off locations

How To

Click on the image to view the PDF version

Get GPS Coordinates on Google Maps and Apple Maps

This is very important! Accurate GPS points are required for successful data analysis. No GPS location = We can’t use the data!

Google Maps

Android

1. On your Android phone or tablet, open the Google Maps app .
2. Touch and hold an area of the map that isn’t labeled to drop a red pin.
3. In the search box, you can find the coordinates.

iPhone or iPad

1. On your iPhone or iPad, open the Google Maps app .
2. Touch and hold an area of the map that isn’t labeled to drop a red pin.
3. At the bottom, tap Dropped pin to find the coordinates.

Apple Maps

Get GPS Coordinates in Maps on iPhone and iPad

Open Maps on your iPhone or iPad and then follow these steps to get your current location’s GPS coordinates.

1. Tap the current location button on the top right.
2. When the blue circle for your spot appears on the map, tap it.
3. Swipe up from the bottom to view full details for your location and you’ll see the Latitude and Longitude.

Credit: AppleToolBox

The Satellites