Two Phase Training Workshop Description

Your trainers are project science advisor volunteering to share 
their knowledge.  Training is designed to introduce you to key 
concepts and skills involved in assessing the quality of water 
in your chosen stream, lake, wetland or karst system.

Due to the extent of the information involved, it is presented in two 
different phases, on different days.


PHASE 1: Stream Sampling: (approx 3.5-4 hours)

 Module 1: Project Logistics and Overview: (Discussion)
           How we are organized, who is involved
           and how our data collection system works.

 Module 2: Equipment Checkout and Site Selection:
           If you agree to collect field data, we
           will check out equipment to you.
           We will also spend some time with you
           selecting sites for you to sample.
           (A map exercise) and how to document
           your sample site.

 Module 3: Laboratory Sample Collection Protocols:
           Instructors will review how to collect
           preserve, document and transport samples
           to the lab.  There is more involved than
           just filling a jelly jar...

 Module 4: Field Chemistry Lab:
           Instructors will take you through running
           field checks for Dissolved Oxygen, pH, 
           Conductivity (where applicable) and temp.
           This will be like your High School Chemistry
           class.

 Module 5: Performance Evaluation at the creek:
           We will travel to a creek to run through
           the tests in actual field conditions.
           Once you successfully complete a mock
           sample collection and set of field tests
           you will have completed Phase 1!

 Completion of this phase is designed to allow you to
participate in Watershed Watch unified sampling events
and focus studies.  And to meet Quality Assurance
training requirements for more advanced data collection
efforts.  But, the picture will not complete without
Phase 2:  

Phase 2: Watershed Assessments (Habitat/Biological) (approx. 3.5 to 4 hours)

 Module 6: Habitat Assessment Protocol discussion:
           Field ecologists will lead you through
           a discussion of visual observations and
           assessments you can make to evaluate the
           condition of your watershed.  

 Module 7: Biological Assessment Protocol Discussion:
           A review of methods to collect, identify
           and score in-stream organisms used as
           water quality indicators.

 Module 8: Field Experience:
           Follow your instructors out to the creek where
           you put into practice the assessment techniques
           discussed earlier.

           This is a full contact water sport.  Be prepared
           to wade in the water, and dress for the weather.


The discussion is conducted at an "adult" level.  Though kids
might enjoy the field portion, parents are urged to consider 
their children's interest level and attention.  Children 
under 9 are not recommended for this course, Minors under
the age of 18 must have a parent or guardian present for
the workshops.  This can be a great family activity, but
an adult needs to be in charge of the equipment, sampling
materials and safety at the stream.