Community Water Quality Monitoring Programs
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Saltwatch (external link) |  Waterway monitoring by students in SW Victoria (photo: Gillian Holmes) |
| Since 1987, Saltwatch has been providing the opportunity for students to develop skills in environmental monitoring, mapping and analysing results, and contrasting their local environment with other areas of the state. Increasingly, partnerships have developed between schools and Landcare groups participating in the program. Saltwatch has often been a catalyst for further environmental projects between community groups. The Saltwatch Web Site enables students to upload their results, allowing groups from around the state to compare results and communicate through the Chat Line. Waterwatch Victoria (external link) Waterwatch is a national program bringing together schools, community groups, Landcare groups, landholders, councils and Water Authorities to test the quality of their local stream or water source so that practical actions can be taken to maintain and improve water quality. Most monitoring programs involve surveys of stream habitat, macroinvertebrates and algae as well as tests to monitor the physical and chemical conditions of the water. Results are monitored and recorded in central databases through catchment coordinators.Action workshops are then arranged to discuss the causes and effects of water degradation, and to plan the actions required to repair the damage. Fishcare Volunteer Program The Fishcare Volunteer program promotes responsible attitudes and practices amongst recreational anglers and the broader community, towards fish and fish habitat. | |
© The State of Victoria, 1996 - 2009.
This document was last reviewed on 18/08/2009