Planet Earth is referred to as the watery planet. The majority of the surface of our planet is covered in water. Despite the Earth's abundance of water, very little of it is available for human consumption. Only a small percentage of water exists in a form that is available for our use. The world's oceans, polar regions, and atmosphere constitute the greatest portion of the Earth's water supply, but in these forms the water is inappropriate for human use.
The world's lakes and, especially, rivers and streams are our most important freshwater sources. It is known that less than 1% of the world's water supply is in these forms and, consequently, available for relatively immediate consumption.
Alarmingly, our freshwater ecosystems are under threat. Human influence on the quality of our water resources is evident worldwide. Everything we do seems to influence the quality of our water. Agriculture, forestry, industry, recreation... it seems that whatever human activity we can think of, there is some impact on freshwater ecosystems. We realize that to ensure that planet Earth can continue to support life, water, probably the world's most important natural resource, needs to be conserved. It is accurately said that the poisoning of our rivers ultimately poisons the human population since we are the ones that drink it.
Education becomes a valuable tool in bringing about positive public response to global issues. Conducting accurate water quality tests and monitoring the water quality of freshwater ecosystems provides us with valid data that provides insight into the influence we are having on a natural resource at a local level. Potentially this information provides the impetus for changing human behaviour.
Water quality monitoring is best carried out when comparative analysis between two or more sites on the same stream can be conducted. If we consider human influences, it would be best to conduct an upstream-downstream analysis of a selected stream. River analysis is certainly a possible option, but the volume and velocity of some rivers poses serious safety concerns. A preferred option is choosing streams that provide access to both the upper and lower reaches. Similarly, monitoring water quality at two different locations on a lake is possible. Lake studies present safety concerns as well. Comparative stream, river or lake analysis is also a possible strategy. In all cases it is best to have specific designated areas so that in following investigations, during different seasons or following years, comparative data can be collected.
Health and safety issues need to be considered in conducting environmental science programs. Ensure that you, as a teacher, have done your work both in being informed and informing school administration, parents and landowners of your intentions. Various documents are available by following the link to the resources page that are devoted to aspects related to field trip organization and health and safety issues.
In all cases, the general aims of the freshwater investigation are:
A specific focus for the investigation:
The MWP identifies science as a systematic process by fostering uniformity and accuracy in testing procedures amongst the participating schools. The MWP also recognizes the limitations of equipment available in schools and the possible irregularity of testing procedures. Oversight for the investigative procedures is provided by scientists at the Manitoba Water Stewardship. Explanations of procedural protocols to be used are provided for each parameter listed below. The parameters below are recognized as those critical to developing a clear picture of water quality. Click on the parameter to download the information specific to each parameter. Schools are encouraged to focus on these procedures in their analysis.
It is important to exercise care in the collection of samples and carrying out the procedures described below. Samples that are collected should be representative of the freshwater ecosystem. Data collection in streams, lakes, and rivers should not be near shore. A general rule to keep in mind is to sample midway accross and at a middle depth in a body of water (whenever possible). Make a record of weather conditions both on the day of and prior to collection. Ensure only a minimum amount of sample is collected so that minimum impact is made on the freshwater ecosystem. If organisms are identified, there is no need for them to be brought back to the classroom. If organisms are unidentified, ensure only a single representative of each species is collected for the group at the investigative site.
The MWP focuses on the following parameters to help develop a clear picture of water quality:
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