Citizen Science- Nature's Notebook

For my final portfolio, I plan to assemble all of my assignments thus far into one comprehensive document. Since I already have a Portfolium account for another class, I will likely upload my comprehensive document to that platform and also to the Canvas Portfolio. My personal goal for this portfolio is to spread awareness about threats to the Swift Creek Reservoir. My timeline for the remainder of the semester is as follows: By December 3rd - Research how to compile all of the Google Slides presentations into one comprehensive document By December 10th - Create comprehensive document of all presentations from this semester By December 11th - Upload comprehensive document to Portfolium and Canvas

English Ivy is a common invasive species. It is present in 28 states, including Hawaii. It can adapt to nearly any habitat and, once introduced, takes over the entire area. Click  here  to view my presentation on English Ivy and its role as an invasive species.

This week I researched equipment for testing water nutrients and bacteria. I chose this because of the prevalence of excessive nitrogen and phosphorous in the Swift Creek Reservoir caused by erosion. Check out my presentation on different water-testing kits.  Water Equipment Presentation

Beyond hydrilla, the Swift Creek Reservoir and its watershed are facing issues related to water quality caused by overdevelopment of Chesterfield County. Check out my presentation on this issue by following this  link.

Check out my slideshow to learn about trees that border the Swift Creek Reservoir! Specifically, these pictures were taken around the Sunday Park Pavilion. You can find the slideshow  here.

   On September 24th, I had the opportunity to hike the Sharp Top trail which is one of the Peaks of Otter in Bedford, Virginia. Sharp Top was once thought to be the highest point in Virginia and that is why there is stone from Sharp Top in the Washington Monument. On the day that I went, the weather was beautiful. However, there were so many gnats at the top that you couldn't stay long. There were swarms that would get in your hair and stick to your clothes if you stood too long. All in all, it was a beautiful 3 mile up and back hike. We also stopped off at Buzzard's Roost on the way up so there is one picture from that overlook as well. 

       Hands Across the Lake is a nonprofit organization located in Midlothian, VA. This organization is comprised of members from the Woodlake and Brandermill communities, Henrico County, Richmond City, and other environmentally conscious supporters. For more information on Hands Across the Lake, you can check out their website at http://handsacrossthelake.com or for a quick rundown you can check out my presentation by clicking this  link .