DRBC Announces Eighth Annual 'Water Snapshot'
Source Delaware River Basin Commission
The Delaware River Basin Commission (DRBC) invites the public to participate in Water Snapshot 2003, April 22 through May 4.
"This popular, water quality sampling event takes a 'snapshot' of the health of Delaware River Basin waterways around Earth Day, April 22," DRBC Executive Director Carol R. Collier said. "We hope Water Snapshot will not only create a heightened awareness about our watersheds and the need for stewardship, but also provide much-deserved recognition to those volunteers who participate in water quality monitoring programs throughout the year."
Snapshot is an opportunity for persons of all ages, experienced and first- timers, to collect water quality data. Some participants conduct a visual assessment while others use simple test kits or sophisticated instruments. The data are recorded on sheets provided to participants and forwarded to the DRBC, where the information will be posted on the commission's web site at www.drbc.net without regard to the precision of the testing equipment or the expertise of the data collector.
"Our goal is to provide participants with a fun, 'hands-on' opportunity to learn more about, and feel connected to, their local watershed," Collier said.
"In response to very positive feedback, I am again pleased to announce the availability of a limited number of free, simple test kits to interested schools and organizations in the Delaware River Basin on a first-come, first-served basis," Collier added. Funding for the Water Snapshot monitoring kits is being provided by the William Penn Foundation. Those interested in a free kit should contact the DRBC by email ([email protected]) or by phone (609-883-9500, ext. 260).
The DRBC web site at www.drbc.net features useful information for Water Snapshot participants, including the downloadable data sheet, explanations of water quality terminology, links to watershed organizations, training opportunities, maps, and updated news. Persons unable to access the Internet may call the DRBC at 609-883-9500, ext. 260 for information.
In addition to the DRBC, the Snapshot steering committee includes representatives from the Delaware Department of Natural Resources and Environmental Control, Delaware Estuary Program, Delaware Nature Society, Delaware Riverkeeper Network, National Park Service, New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection, New York Department of Environmental Conservation, Pennsylvania Department of Conservation and Natural Resources, Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection, Pennsylvania Environmental Council, Pocono Environmental Education Center, Upper Delaware Council, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, and the U.S. Geological Survey.
Source: Delaware River Basin Commission