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

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.

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.

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.

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

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

Soil Sample Table SampleTopMiddleBottomType Soil Sample 1Sandy-clay LoamSandy-clay loamLoamy ClayClay Loam Soil Sample 2LoamSilty-clay loamSilty-clay LoamClay Loam Soil Sample 3Sandy LoamSandy loamClay LoamSandy-clay Loam Soil Sample 4Sandy-clay LoamSilty-clay loamClay LoamSilty-clay Loam Soil Sample 5Silty-claySandy-clay loamClay-sand LoamSilty-clay Loam Soil Sample 6Sandy LoamSandy-clay loamSilty-clay LoamSandy-clay Loam Soil Sample 7Silty LoamLoam Sandy Loam Department of Agriculture Soil Classification, Natural Resources Conservation Classification System Soil sample

Collecting Soil samples and GPS points Jeremy NickShannonDiego

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.

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

Lab Testing of Water Samples Zac Shannon, Jeremy and Zac

Water Sample Table Tests:Sample Ammonia Lt. Yellow: present in small amounts Lt. Yellow: present in small amounts Lt. Yellow: present in small amounts Lt. Yellow: present in small amounts Nitrates No Color: None No Color: None No Color: None No Color: None Phosphates Lt. Blue: present in small amounts Lt. Blue: present in small amounts Lt. Blue: present in small amounts Lt. Blue: present in small amounts pHpH7 In House Water Quality Sample Test Kit

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)

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

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

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.