Two citizen science programs were delivered with the help of Community Action funding: Shore Watch and Stream Watch. Monitoring kits, training videos and educational materials were developed. During 2020, 29 volunteers gathered data at lake and stream sites across the Severn Sound watershed. Monitoring data included qualitative and quantitative observations, collected at varying frequencies depending on the volunteer. Data will be used to identify trends and patterns relating to water quality in order to identify concerns as early as possible. Observations will help detect hot spots for nuisance algal blooms, and help target areas in need of stewardship activities to help reduce nutrient inputs. Information was also gathered on invasive species, with the goal of early detection, and species at risk. The programs engaged citizens in environmental monitoring, and created a greater understanding of environmental issues as well as stewardship actions needed to help mitigate those issues.
Nearest city or town: Severn Sound Watershed (Tiny, Penetanguishene, Midland, Springwater, Oro-Medonte, Tay, Severn, Georgian Bay)
Project start date: June 15, 2020
Project focus: Monitoring / Research
Project contact: Aisha Chiandet