Participants lead their groups in taking part in the StreamLink water-quality monitoring activities. Data are collected by students and other youth, following the guidelines received by Participants during their StreamLink training sessions. An initial in-class investigation of watersheds and water quality is conducted. Students learn about the relationships among their local water resources, the Kansas River, and other North American watersheds. Strong emphasis is placed on the interconnectedness, the universality of water, and the need for careful resource planning.
Students use mapping exercises to place their local water resources in a larger watershed context.
Historical interpretation of the sampling site is conducted based on the skills of the students. Materials that can be included in this aspect of the historic investigation include the use of aerial photos and topographic maps, GIS maps, a review of zoning changes over time, historical archives specific to the site, and survey information regarding threatened and endangered species present in the immediate watershed. Students may choose to interview community leaders and elders as part of their historic research. The curriculum needs of the Participant dictate the students final course of research. Ideally students will write a brief report of their findings to be submitted to this website.