Nov 7, 2007
BRT/IWCAM Launches World Water Monitoring Day and Public Awareness Project
On Wed 7 November, 2007 the Buccoo Reef Trust and the Integrated Watershed and Coastal Areas Management (GEF-IWCAM) presented secondary schools in Tobago with water testing kits as part of its World Water Monitoring and Public Awareness Project. This took place at the spacious Goodwood High School auditorium at Goodwood, Tobago.
World Water Monitoring Day, a first of its kind on the island of Tobago, is a worldwide activity to create participation and awareness among citizens. Internationally, the programme is coordinated by the International Water Association and Water Environment Federation.
Approximately one hundred and fifty enthusiastic science students and their teachers from all of the secondary schools in Tobago participated in the launch. Supporting the venture were Water and Sewage Authority of Trinidad and Tobago, the Division of Education, Youth Affairs and Sport, and the Department of Natural Resources and the Environment of the Tobago House of Assembly.
Secretary for Education, Youth Affairs and Sport in the Tobago House of Assembly, the Honorable Mrs. Claudia Groome-Duke affirmed her support for the programme when she agreed to be the keynote speaker. In her speech she stressed the importance of youth involvement in monitoring water quality; and the need for them to become aware of their environment, since they are today and tomorrow’s users, decision makers and advocates. She further implored them to understand that poor water quality will impact human health and the natural biodiversity. Remarks were also delivered by Mr. Andrew Daniel, Quality Control Manager - Water and Sewage Authority of Trinidad and Tobago; Mrs. Michelle Stanislaus - Environmental Officer II, Department of Natural Resources and the Environment, THA. Ms. Sandra Timothy, GEF-IWCAM Project Manager at the Buccoo Reef Trust presented an overview of the project. The programme was chaired by the illustrious Mr. Gerald MacFarlane – Director, Buccoo Reef Trust.
After the official ceremony Mrs. Stanislaus and Mr. Daniel lead the students in a one-on-one break-out session. In that session students were informed about the environment and the role watersheds and waterways play in their daily lives. This was followed by hands-on demonstration on the use of the test kits. The parameters measured were pH, dissolved oxygen, turbidity and temperature.
The data collected from these assessments would become part of the world water monitoring database, and a key component of the BRT/ GEF-IWCAM overall land-base database. The information gleaned will provide a snapshot of the fresh water quality which can be illustrated on GIS maps. It will also provide a source of reference for school based assessment projects. Apart from creating awareness and practical experience, the data gathered will provide timely information that could be used for decision making regarding watershed management.