Bridging the data gap in Conservation Authorities using Citizen Science

Session: 18. - Research-Driven Educational Initiatives to Improve Watershed Health

Debbie Balika, Kawartha Conservation, [email protected]
Andrea Kirkwood, University of Ontario Institute of Technology, [email protected]

Abstract

The Kawartha Region Conservation Authority is located in South Central Ontario operating within a jurisdiction of 2500km². One of its main objectives is facilitating lake management plans that address natural heritage, aquatic biology, and water quality issues that are relevant to local communities. Results from the lake management planning process identified a major data gap in nearshore water quality data.  Like many other organizations program funding is often a barrier. In order to overcome the funding obstacles Kawartha Conservation has augmented funding through the implementation of citizen science in two nearshore water quality monitoring projects. The objectives of these projects are to: 1) Obtain a data baseline for near shore areas; 2) Compare with open water data; 3) Educate and encourage stewardship. We have undertaken two lakes within our watershed, namely Lake Scugog and Sturgeon Lake using two different program models including approximately sixty citizen scientists and monitoring thirty six sites. The model used on Lake Scugog includes a partnership with the University of Ontario Institute of Technology with funding through an Ontario Trillium Grant and overarching multi partner larger scale study. The Sturgeon Lake model incorporates Kawartha Conservation staff and an outside accredited lab. 

1. Keyword
littoral zone

2. Keyword
citizen science

3. Keyword
water quality

4. Additional Keyword
funding

5. Additional Keyword
community

6. Additional Keyword
collaboration