The group from the Martinsville YMCA joined us at Fairy Stone State Park to learn all about water quality and the effects of pollution.
First we all introduced ourselves with a game called "Surf or Turf", in which everyone learned that about 71% of the earth's surface is covered in water, but only about 3% of it is freshwater. We also learned that several of the campers had some exciting stories involving water.
Playing "Surf or Turf"
Playing "Surf or Turf"
Then we did a "Water Quality Relay", and the students learned that any pollution that we put on our land can eventually end up in our streams due to run-off after rain. (This is an example of non-point source pollution.)
Water Quality Relay: Simulation of run-off after rainfall
Next, the students paired up and tested the water quality of the stream that runs through the picnic area. They tested pH (tells us how acidic or basic a solution is), dissolved oxygen, temperature, and turbidity (how clear/murky the water is).
Testing the pH of their water sample
Recording the data
Finally, we finished with a walk in the stream to look for underwater wildlife. We found fish, crayfish, and aquatic insects.
Trying to catch a crayfish
Surveying the scene
Angie shows off the crayfish
More exploring
There's a fish in this cup!
The catcher (and releaser) of the fish
Crayfish!
The Martinsville YMCA group, after a full morning of activities.
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