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Middle School Watershed Awareness Project
In south central Missouri, nonpoint source pollution is a special concern because of the karst topography in the region. Groundwater and surface water are both vulnerable to contamination due the the prevalence of losing streams, springs, sink holes, and the disintegrated limestone/dolomite geological formations that allow surface water to freely enter underground aquifers without adequate natural filtration. Sources of contamination include: septic systems, stormwater runoff, agriculture, open dump sites, timber harvesting, and recreational activities.
PROJECT DESCRIPTION
The Bryant Watershed Project has developed an on-line textbook for local schools called the Bryant Watershed Atlas. The "Atlas" includes maps, articles, photos and stories on subjects ranging from history to economics to tall Ozark tales. This project is directed at expanding the educational materials on the website so users can better understand how watersheds are connected, how this concept is key to understanding how nonpoint source pollution works, and how the decisions and the actions of every person in every watershed affect the waters that sustain people and the land. Materials will be developed and promoted that will further define a watershed and connect the concepts of watershed and karst topography to nonpoint source pollution.
OBJECTIVES
1. To provide interactive website educational materials with regards to watershed, karst topography and nonpoint source pollution.
2. To create a set of detailed maps that will show the Bryant watershed in relationship to the six contiguous creek watersheds, including the pattern of tributaries and how and where the surface water travels.
3. Develop the Bryant Watershed Atlas into a template that can be used by other watershed organizations.
PRODUCTS
No fewer than eight new web pages will be developed for the Bryant Creek Watershed Atlas. Three middle school lesson plans will be made on the topics of watersheds, groundwater movement and nonpoint source pollution. Printed materials will be distributed to schools located in the Bryant Creek Watershed. Introductory and planning consultation with local teachers will take place. An online and print evaluation surveys will be completed by both teachers and students. Interviews will occur with teachers and collaborating partners. Laminated maps and promotional materials will also be distributed.
PROJECT SPONSOR
Bryant Watershed Project, Inc.
COOPERATING AGENCIES
EPA/DNR
CONTACT
Bryant Watershed Project, Inc.
P.O. Box 40
Brixby, MO 65618
Lois Reborne
telephone: 417-257-1315
email: Lreborne@watersheds.org
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