Join the Citizen Scientist Water Quality Testing Program

Baxter Pond, Port Washington

Why do we test water quality? 

Long Island Sound, and the bodies of water feeding into it like Manhasset Bay, are regularly tested. Periodically levels of pollution are found to be high endangering our health and the environment. But since the waters feeding into the Bay have not been tested, it’s not been possible to identify the sources of pollution and take action to make our water safer.

(Note: we are testing ground water, not drinking water, which is regularly tested)

We began the Citizen Scientist Water Quality Testing Program to identify the sources of pollution. Our objective is to collect data that can help focus efforts to eliminate the pollution at the source.

How do we test?

We collect water samples at the ponds using commonly accepted testing equipment.  We test levels of nitrogen, dissolved oxygen, and other pollutants and record conditions at the pond.

Where do we test?

Baxters Pond, Mill Pond, and Leeds Pond. These are the three major ponds feeding into Manhasset Bay.

What do we do with the test results?

We are compiling the readings of the tests and will analyze them as we collect the data. Once we have sufficient data to indicate locations with higher than normal pollution levels, we will inform and assist property owners in ways to reduce the specific pollutants.

How can you help?

We need volunteers to help conduct the tests. The procedure is relatively simple and first time volunteers will receive training at the pond.

We also need Volunteers to help compile, record, and analyze the test results.

When do the tests take place?

We are now conducting tests every Tuesday from 10 to 11 AM. If you’re interested in participating or just observing, send me an email, (Paul.merkelson@gmail.com) and I will send you the location.

If you want to join a test and this time is not convenient, let me know what day and time works for you. We need a minimum of 3 people to conduct a test.  So with a few days notice we might be able to get a couple of other people to join us at a time that’s convenient for you.

During July and August Water Quality Tests will be conducted with Rewild interns on Mondays from 10am to -12pm and in September on Tuesdays from 4pm - 6pm. You’re welcome to join us. Even if you can’t stay for the full two hours , please feel free to drop by for however long you can.