A Stream Rapid Bioassessment is a cost-effective biological survey technique designed for monitoring and assessment of both pristine streams, as well as streams that are impacted by current or past activities. They provide the biological data needed to make informed decisions relevant to waters from state to state. It is crucial to collect, compile, analyze, and interpret environmental data rapidly to facilitate management decisions and resultant actions for control and/or mitigation of impairment.

RBAs are an effective tool for: 
• Determining if a stream is supporting a designated aquatic life use specified in state Water Quality Standards, 

• Characterizing the existence and severity of impairment to the water resource, 

• Helping to identify the sources and causes of impairment

• Evaluating the effectiveness of control actions and restoration activities, 

• Supporting use attainability studies and cumulative impact assessment, and 

• Characterizing regional biotic attributes of reference conditions. 
 

Barry A. Vittor & Associates, Inc. has extensive knowledge of the state specific RBA protocols and has completed numerous assessments across Alabama, Florida, and Mississippi.