Management measures and best management practices (BMP) are often introduced on farms. However, the impact of those practices and the follow up to such measures are often not done on sites where BMPs have been implemented. A cost effective tool was developed for farmers to assess the current quality of water in streams or rivers and also to verify improvements made by the introduction of BMPs by biological monitoring. The biological method is simple and verify the presence and life of microorganisms and it is simple and require little formation and cost less than chemical monitoring kits ( $20 vs. $140 U.S.). Farmers can work with local schools or conservation organizations (ex: 4-H) to conduct monitoring.

Monitoring is a important part of management practices and would help introduce them and maintain them if people involved in the adoption of BMPs take the time to verify or are aware of the impact of their adoption.