The public is welcome to check out the data for their local streams. Allegheny College uses the data in a number of classes and also for research purposes. The Department of Environmental Protection knows that we maintain a database. Volunteer monitors and monitoring programs throughout the state may find your data very interesting. Emphasize correct testing methods with your students throughout the year.
Inaccurate results are usually due to procedural error.
On the Information Sheets, they can also see how their results compare to the water quality standards set by our government agencies. If an obtained number seems out of normal range, ask the students if they followed all instructions. If they did, do another trial if time permits and see if the results differ. The more trials you do, the more comfortable you can be with the results. Also keep an eye on that chemical parameter next time you sample your waterway to see if it turns out to be peculiar again.