Wolf Park Water Quality Monitoring

Goal:

The primary goal for water quality analysis was to quantify nutrient levels and pH values in the water bodies of Wolf Park. This project aimed to identify potential threats to the ecosystem, particularly with nutrient pollution from local agriculture and other imbalances that could affect both the habitat’s vegetation and the animals’ health.
The scope of this analysis was limited to a single academic semester, with sampling conducted on four separate dates. For the initial four sampling events, water quality measurements were taken using test strips for nitrate, nitrite, phosphate, chloride, and pH. While test strips offer a quick and accessible method for preliminary data collection, they also introduce limitations in terms of precision and accuracy. As a result, all reported data from these strips reflect the average value of the provided range, which was used for graphing and trend analysis. After these sampling events, our group gained access to a colorimeter where we were able to gain more precise data on nitrate, phosphate, and dissolved oxygen (DO). We continued to use test strips for pH as there was little variability in the results for pH.
This analysis serves as a precedent and highlights the need for continued, long-term monitoring using proper equipment to better track seasonal changes and detect emerging concerns to water quality for the benefit of the animal habitats.

Community Project Partners:

Wolf Park

Team Members

  • Ismael De Lara
  • Alyssa Perry
  • Sarah Miller
  • Linsey Simpson
  • Megan Diller

Summary:

This water quality monitoring project for Wolf Park revealed insights into the current health of the ecosystem of the water bodies of the park. With consistent sampling throughout the semester we’ve identified vulnerable locations, being the midstream and upstream locations that are at the most risk for eutrophication and algal blooms. Nitrate and Phosphate levels for these locations could be an indicator of nutrient runoff from local agriculture. pH was consistent in staying in the acceptable ranges. DO had a dramatic spike in the spring which was accompanied with algae in the water bodies, which warrants further monitoring and mitigation efforts.
Consistent monitoring efforts with accurate instruments such as colorimeters and DO probes, with implementation of volunteer efforts and riparian buffer zones will be the key factors of improving water quality. The impacts of these efforts will benefit Wolf Park management decisions for healthy ecosystems to provide to the animals of Wolf Park. Based on research, being proactive when it comes to water quality issues will have Wolf Park serving as a model of responsible land stewardship and wildlife care.

Final Report

Water Quality Report for Wolf Park