Stream Consciousness Lab

Introduction/Motivation

Why might environmental engineers be concerned with the health of a stream? Would the stream be a possible source of drinking water for the community? Might the stream flow into a community water source? Engineers are interested in the water quality and health of a stream for conservation, restoration and resource use (fishing, recreation and drinking water).

How might an engineer be able to tell if a stream is healthy or not? How can they determine the water quality of a stream or pond? (Possible answers: looking, smelling, testing the chemistry) What are some visible indicators of stream health? (Possible answers: clear water, healthy plant growth surrounding/in the water, macroinvertebrates, presence of fish) What would good water quality look like? (Possible answers: clear or even, crystal clear) What are some indicators of bad water quality? (Possible answers: visible pollution or murkiness).

A macroinvertebrate is an organism without a backbone that can be seen with the human eye (e.g., flies, worms, larvae). Macroinvertebrates are creatures that can be sensitive to pollution. They are good indicators of water quality because they live in or near water most of their lives. They are also fairly easy to collect and observe. Engineers often use macroinvertebrates as indicators of water quality and health.

Brainstorming:

• What are indicators of water quality?

Directions:

1. Break into groups no larger than five students.

2. Each sample will be examined:

   • Location

   • Temperature

   • Color

3. Students will look at the samples under a microscope and determine whether there is any micro-invertebrates within the water and then document discoveries on their worksheet.