A Watershed Monitoring Activity

Too often,  we hear about the changing of environments and
how we could have done something if only we would have known. 
We hope that our study into the water quality of the unique
 watersheds of Mount Carleton will yield valuable information 
and teach others about our most important resource.

Why is this important?

Water quality is the most important factor in preserving the balance of nature in any ecosystem. The goal of this project is to determine if water quality inside Mount Carleton Provincial Park is affected by activities outside the present park boundaries. All of the large brooks that feed the two lake systems within the park have their origins outside the park. No watershed management plan to addresses the water quality of the lakes systems is in existence. 

The Province of New Brunswick, Canada has demonstrated its interest in promoting "eco-tourism" in the area and has announced the area east of the park as a proposed "protected" area. It would seem that with no "eco" activity, there could be no sustainable tourism. We welcome the official recognition of the pristine areas east of the present park boundary as a welcome first step. There now needs to be a plan of action to ensure the water quality of the river (Nipisiguit) that flows through the heart of the proposed protected area.

Curriculum Overview

The major tributaries of both of the park's lake systems are at the center of this project. Brooks throughout the park have been tested and compared by youth who have been a part of this watershed survey. Science camp participants have been testing for turbidity, pH, phosphates, nitrates and dissolved oxygen. Analysis of macro invertebrates in the brooks has also been part of the data gathered.

Before field studies begin, students pick one of four areas on which to focus:

Science
Map and Compass
Expedition
First Aid

The Science Team is responsible for knowing testing procedures, collecting and recording samples and keeping a journal of events. Their main responsibility is the integrity of the testing and briefing other teams as to what is expected at test sites.

The Map Team determines the safest and shortest routes to proposed testing sites. Students learn how to use a GPS, topographic maps and a compass. Team responsibilities include estimating time and distances for all expeditions and briefing other teams about expected terrain and potential swimming spots!

The Expedition Team makes sure the entire group has what they need to carry out each trip. This includes all the details: food, water, supplies, departure times, weather reports and everything else that could effect an expedition. Their key responsibility is to incorporate the ideas of all other team members in preparing menus, packing appropriate gear, ensuring provisions and determining all schedules.

The First Aid Team ensures the safety of all participants and is responsible for learning or upgrading their first aid skills. Their role is to pack, carry and know how to use all safety gear and first aid supplies, including bug spray and sunscreen! These team members play a very important role in the project.

Click here to access a detailed, topographic map of the park showing student activity!

Click here to see the Government's version of the same map

The science curriculum for this project meets or exceeds the Maine Learning Results expectations for learning outcomes. Students participate for nearly five full days in the regular activities of this physically and mentally challenging science project for a minimum of 72 hours. 

/ OK, now I've had enough! / I STILL want more! /