OPERATIONAL OVERVIEW

Chemical/ Physical Parameters Being Monitored: pH levels, conductivity, turbidity, dissolved oxygen, water and air temperature. Fecal coli form is also desirable to measure but at this time is done only on a limited basis with associated partners.

Sampling Sites: Generally 3-6 sites are sampled per school depending on distance from the school. Local SWCD and Watershed District personnel take the lead in site selection with input from the school, MN DNR, MPCA, ND Department of Health, and other organizations.

Sampling Frequency: Once a month during open water months of April/May through Oct./Nov.-including summer months.

Sampling Team: Anywhere from 4 to 14 students works well, though some schools are using entire classes of over 20 students. Some schools have set up an application/screening process due to more students desiring to be involved in the program than can be accommodated. Expectations are made clear that students help in the summer also (realizing some flexibility is needed to accommodate jobs). We suggest a mix of grades 8-12 to allow training of new students by older (experienced) students. 


Typical Sampling Day for Chemical/Physical Sampling:

8-8:30 a.m.-Calibrate meters, assemble materials. Drive to sampling sites to record field observations/measurements and collect water samples which are packaged and sent to a certified water quality lab.

11:30 a.m. - Back at school (timing depends on number of sites sampled, distance, and parameters being monitored)

Clean equipment as needed, put away. Make copies of data sheets, enter data, analysis, and develop news release.