Capital Region Earth Force teachers from Kenmore and Gunston Middle Schools and Longbranch Elementary School heard from a panel of experts on local water quality issues on Monday night. All of the educators present are actively participating in the Earth Force process with their students and their classes have completed water monitoring. The next step for these teachers and their students will be selecting an issue on which to focus and later they will create and implement a solution to their chosen water quality impairment.
The expert panel was composed of Dr. Orzetti from George Mason University, Jim Cummins from the Interstate Commission for the Potomac River Basin, Jessica Bromelkamp from the Chesapeake Bay Foundation and Shahid Anis from Pepco. Focused on the Potomac and Anacostia River Watersheds, the evening’s topics ranged from the basics of water monitoring and the impacts of each individual water parameters on the surrounding environment, combined sewer overflows (CSOs) – what they are and why they exist, a brief history of the Potomac and the influence development has had on its health. Finally, Pepco’s Mr. Anis highlighted some of the low impact development practices they have made at their facilities. Liz Castillo of Kenmore MS commented “Monday night was wonderful. The information that your speakers shared was very helpful and you arranged it just right.”
Meeting space was generously donated by the Potomac Overlook Nature Center and dinner was provided by the Stardust Restaurant and Lounge. To learn more about this and future Earth Force Educator Workshops, contact the Capital Region Office.