Data supporting this conjecture have yet to be published. Because of regional variation in rainfall chemistry and its effects on the forest ecosystem, a wide region must be studied over long periods of time to detect the subtle deterioration of the forest ecosystem. Such a study is usually not feasible for any single research group. However, with a detailed monitoring protocol, a central repository for data, and internet communication, a team comprised of high school teachers and students, local naturalist clubs, and university researchers can form a network of environmental stations. The different components can be presented to students as independent projects that can be compiled into a comprehensive monitoring program.
Teachers can use different students in spring and fall to incorporate greater participation.
It is also an excellent program for senior university undergraduates to compile data and produce a report for the community. Most of the equipment can be used in subsequent years, so that only consumables and the cost of chemical analysis need to be funded on an annual basis. Schools can raise funds to pay for chemical analyses carried out at Trent University. Even regions without a history of acid rain deposition can provide valuable comparisons to regions receiving acid rain. Teachers and students can establish a local study area for long-term monitoring of ecosystem health.