Students from schools across northwest Ohio are learning how to gather and use scientific data as part of the annual student watershed watch, coordinated by the Toledo Metropolitan Area Council of Governments (TMACOG).
Now in its 35th year, the program equips teachers and students with training and testing materials to sample waterways across the region. More than 1,000 students are participating this year, bringing the total to more than 25,000 since the program began in 1989.
At a student summit hosted by TMACOG in November at the Toledo Zoo, classrooms will present and discuss the data they collected, meet with professionals working in environmental fields and network with their peers.
“The student watershed watch provides hands-on learning that helps students understand how water quality impacts their lives and the environment we share,” said Sandy Spang, TMACOG executive director.
“Seeing students actively involved in water sampling is truly inspiring,” Spang continued. “They are gaining valuable scientific skills and awareness that will lead the next generation to understand the importance of protecting our region's waterways, as well as potential careers in environmental science and conservation. By participating, students gain firsthand experience that could inspire them to pursue a future in preserving our natural resources.”
The regional initiative receives support from GM, Lucas County Engineer’s office, City of Toledo, Cenovus and the Toledo Zoo.
Learn more at tmacog. org/water/student-watershedwatch.
