Environmental Stewardship Coordinator

The Environmental Advisory Committee has been conducting environmental sampling since 2008 in response to degrading water quality in a recreational lake setting. All indications point to cultural eutrophication (i.e. nutrient pollution) owing to shoreline development, boat traffic, use of fertilizers and leaky septic systems. During the past five years, the Environmental Advisory Committee (EAC) has been employing Saskatchewan Polytechnic Natural Resource students to assist with water quality sampling and environmental assessment. This year, the EAC would not only like to involve a student in field sampling and reporting, but also in a more proactive public education and community engagement capacity. The project will involve a single Intern working 3 days/week throughout the summer/fall months. Objectives of the study include: 1) coordination of volunteers and participation in field sampling activities including weekly water sampling and periodic waterfowl surveys; 2) summarize field sampling results into an online database including nutrient concentrations, monitoring sediment sources, transparency measurements, and waterfowl information; 3) planning and hosting a community event to report the results of environmental sampling and solicit community support for improved lake stewardship activities and results.

Faculty Supervisor:

Susan Blum

Student:

Partner:

District of Lakeland No. 521

Discipline:

Life Sciences

Sector:

Public administration

University:

Saskatchewan Polytechnic

Program: