Phase III Reclamation Project

1. Phase III Reclamation Project Environmental ScienceC. Dianne Phillips, Instructor Diego Rioja -Photographer and Field Specialist Nick Dillard -GPS Management Shannon Wade -Soil and Water Sample Analyst ZacPrange -Soil and Water Sample Field Specialist Jeremy Adams – Field Data Collection Specialist

2. Project Overview • To analyze, identify and describe the habitat of NWACC’s “Back-Forty.” • To aid in future preservation of this natural habitat. • Collect water and soil samples. • Gather GPS points of the area to accurately identify the boundaries of the area.

3. Methods • We first plotted the GPS points around the area to establish boundaries of preservation. • After plotting the exact GPS locations of the area, we took soil samples from various GPS points and mapped them accordingly. • We then took water samples from the small spring-fed pond and placed those on our GPS map as well. • Once all the samples were obtained, we then began to test the nutrients in the water and further classify soil types.

4. GPS Points • We each took part in the setup or operation of the Trimble GPS system. • Using the Trimble GPS system, we correctly plotted the exact points of the “Back-Forty” boundary and generated a working field map of the area.

5. Comparing field GPS data with Google Earth coordinates Collecting GPS data in the field Nick and Jeremy

6. Soil Sample Results • After testing the soil using the Natural Resources Conservation Classification System, we found the different types that occur naturally around the area and plotted each point on the GPS map. • Four Dominant Soil Types: • Sandy-clay Loam • Clay Loam • Silty-clay Loam • Sandy Loam

7. Soil Sample Table Soil sample Department of Agriculture Soil Classification, Natural Resources Conservation Classification System

8. Nick Shannon Diego Jeremy Collecting Soil samples and GPS points

9. Water Sample Results • We then took water samples from the small spring-fed pond and used a Water Quality Sample Test Kit to determine the PH level and the amounts of ammonia, nitrates and phosphates.

10. spring fed pond Shannon & Zac Zac water tests – grab samples Diego helps Ms. Phillips

11. Lab Testing of Water Samples Zac Shannon, Jeremy and Zac

12. Water Sample Table In House Water Quality Sample Test Kit

13. Student Experience • Each student was given the opportunity to interact with the environment through field work and data collection techniques. • We learned field data collection techniques as well as simple laboratory testing techniques. • We were introduced to technology and developed communication skills. • We also learned the importance of teamwork and commitment when working in small groups. • With the help of campus professors, we learned how to network locally. • Most importantly, we contributed to the future preservation of a small and natural habitat on our college campus. Shannon, Jeremy, Nick, Diego and Zac (photographer)

14. Technology • Trimble GPS • Google Earth • Water Quality sample test kits • Microsoft Power Point, Front Page (Webdesign), Excel, Word • Digital Camera

15. Community Contacts • Dianne Phillips, EAST/EMPACTS Facilitator, Math & Science Faculty, NWACC • Dr. Michael Canoy, Adjunct Math & Science Faculty, NWACC • Dr. Marvin Galloway, Dean of Math & Science, NWACC • Daniel Lowe, EAST/EMPACTS Student, Phase III Reclamation Project, NWACC

16. Conclusion • Our research revealed a viable habitat filled with animal and plant life. The Phase III reclamation area is capable of sustaining life and the area should be preserved. • In testing the pond, we found abundant aquatic animal and plant life. The surrounding soils were capable of sustaining field grasses, forests and a natural “wetland.” • With the proper commitment and tools, the “Back-Forty” can be a self-maintaining habitat which may one day become an amazing interactive classroom.