(Press release)

Waco, TX Sept 16, 2009 – More and more, students are leading the efforts to protect their local environment. Living in a world shrunken by technology, they have a better understanding of the interdependence of important natural resources in a larger, global setting.

Observed officially each year on September 18, World Water Monitoring Day (WWMD) presents an important opportunity for young people to become involved in safeguarding natural resources on a local, national and international scale. For a third year, Baylor University and the City of Waco are teaming up to help local school districts participate in WWMD.

Students from Angie King’s science class at Robinson Jr. High will monitor water quality during a field trip to the Lake Waco Wetland in observance of WWMD. Staff from Baylor University will deliver water samples from local water bodies to Kelly Berkshire’s Oceanography class at La Vega High School, and also to University High School (Waco ISD) where science teachers Theresa Loyd and Alberta Neel are participating for the second year in a row.

These classes are participating through the Marsh Madness program, a GEAR UP Waco partnership that also takes students on field trips to the Lake Waco Wetland. Students measure four basic indicators of water quality: dissolved oxygen, pH (acidity), temperature and turbidity (clarity).

While engaged in this annual event, students can learn more about the watersheds in which they live, how watersheds work and how protecting their waters can have beneficial impacts downstream. Teachers and students often use their data to discuss impacts in their local watershed and compare their findings with others.

The Water Environment Federation and the International Water Association serve as the primary coordinators for the program. A complete list of sponsors and partners is found on the web site.

For more information and to order kits, visit the World Water Monitoring Day web site at www.WorldWaterMonitoringDay.org.