Erica Moser, Penn Today
The Pennsylvania Department of Environmental Protection has for decades designated Cobbs Creek in West Philadelphia an “impaired stream,” meaning it fails to meet at least one water quality standard, but lacks the data to identify the specific causes, says Jon Hawkings, assistant professor of earth and environmental science.
George Ambrose has spent the past four years leading volunteers in monthly water sampling with test kits at the creek. The test kits provide residents with basic information about their water, such as approximate pH and nitrate concentrations, but are not as detailed or precise as research-level water quality data.
“We want to inspire more local residents and students to careers in science, and for the community in general to have a greater sensitivity to environmental issues,” says Ambrose, coordinator of environmental science for the Cobbs Creek Community Environmental Education Center.
Since last year, Hawkings has led students in conducting more in-depth water sampling and analysis at the creek. The group of researchers and community members called the Cobbs Creek Stream Team are focused on empowering young leaders—from high school students to postdocs—in water quality monitoring. The effort builds off community efforts and The Water Center at Penn’s education initiatives at Cobbs Creek.
Hawkings says the aims of this project are to submit data to state and federal water quality reports and to share live water quality data with the community.