Typically in the younger grades, basic chemical tests are performed which may include pH, dissolved oxygen, nitrates and phosphates testing. Macroinvertebrate is the scientific word for insects that make their homes under rocks at the bottom of the stream. The nets are then emptied into basins and the students pick out and identify each insect. Finally, the bugs are grouped into three categories, according to how sensitive they are to pollution. Based on the bug count, the stream is rated as Impacted, Slightly Impacted or Non-Impacted.
Students learn and have fun doing it.
They see up close what factors indicate a healthy stream, as well as what impacts humans have on the environment. As a result, students are becoming some of our most informed and active citizens. In the future, the data students collect will serve as a valuable resource for water monitoring agencies and will contribute to inventorying streams in the Croton Watershed. The Westchester Community Foundation recently awarded funding to Hudson Basin River Watch to continue networking and training activities in partnership with the Westchester County Department of Planning for volunteer monitoring programs in Westchester County. An email listserv is being hosted by the Westchester County Department of Planning to allow for greater public outreach and participation in the Croton Watershed planning process.