Water Quality Monitoring has launched!

We have officially launched our water quality monitoring program!

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We have organized a student led research group at Saint Martin’s University with the help of Professor Brandy Fox, Ph.D. The students are preparing their first round of water and sediment samples to analyze for microplastic contamination. Microplastic particles have infiltrated every corner of the planet – these particles can be found on the highest peaks of every mountain range, in the deepest trenches of the ocean, in desert and rainforests, and in every body of water. Microplastics are constantly drifting along every current of air and water and entering the bodies of all living creatures – including you and me.

As microplastics accumulate at an ever-increasing rate, there is growing concern over the harmful impacts of these plastics on living beings and the environment. If you search online you will find countless articles regarding microplastic pollution. It is a growing field of research and there remains much to learn. For this reason, it is exciting to support a young group of budding scientists as they get first hand experience in this important field. Our student volunteers will produce data on the prevalence of microplastic contamination in southern Puget Sound.

In addition to our microplastic research, we are using a brand new YSI ProDSS water meter to collect water quality data around Budd Inlet. This device provides reliable data on several parameters including dissolved oxygen, temperature, pH, conductivity.

Click Here to visit our Volunteer Center, where you can access an application form and DERT’s volunteer portal.

Our first kayak patrol is being conducted this Thursday, June 3rd. We will be launching from Tugboat Annie’s. A follow up email will contain more dates for kayak patrols throughout the summer. Stay tuned! If you are interested in joining us, please follow the registration instructions below.