Data Collection

Community: Kashechewan First Nation

Esri Collector App

CreeGeo has set up a Collector app for students to use with their ArcGIS Online accounts in order to participate in (offline) field data collection, based on established research plots (GPS locations). These locations are where consistent monitoring and data collection will happen, and new / additional spots could be established as Mush Guardians progresses. The data captured in the app is secure and can then be used in analysis and visualization. Any measurements/readings/pictures students take will be collected using this app!

Activity: Measuring Snow-Water Equivalent (SWE) in a Snow Core Sample

Let's watch the video and then head outside to find an area where it makes sense to do some measuring. Is this a good spot?

Today we will practice how to measure new snowfall using a "snow board" (not that kind!), and then how to measure the amount of water that is present within a snowpack, which is represented by a snow core sample you will take of the snow that fell onto the snow board. This would be the depth of water you would theoretically get if you were to melt the entire snowpack instantaneously. We will then record our measurement for today using the Collector app.

QUESTION: Why do scientists (and citizen scientists) measure snowfall over a period of time? Why does it matter how much water is present within snow? Take a minute and think about these questions and/or discuss with someone sitting beside you. What would this type of monitoring have to do with climate change?

Remember: When you read the level of liquid in a graduated cylinder, you should be at eye level, and look at the bottom of the meniscus, or the curved upper surface of a liquid in a tube. You will notice that when you pour liquid into the graduated cylinder, or a similar container, the liquid "reaches up" the sides of the container, forming a curve. The most accurate reading is when it is taken from the bottom center of that curve.