IMES

IMES

Thursday, May 7, 2020

Whitney M. (UR) Pytoplankton Proposal



Hi my name is Whitney!
 I am an aspiring marine sciences student seeking experience and knowledge in the physical and biological properties of the vast water world. I am certified with five plus years’ experience in visual design and project management as well as three years in automotive and machine maintenance.
 In appreciating the beauty of life and understanding the hard work it requires in nourishment to stay balanced, has brought a sense of responsibility to educate myself on the needs and growth processes so that I may be of service and reliable to educate others. I am to understand the scientific methods, machines and materials used to figure data as well as the nature of the subject itself in order to create quality research.
 

About my Research Proposal:


Starting off with an idea to figure the diverse species of Phytoplankton in specific locations of the Intracoastal Waterway and understand what those numbers could tell us. I began my research with the question of “What is where and Why”? In longer studies this research could inform officials to possible imbalances in the waterway with specific causes and suggestions on how to combat potential dangers to the organisms the waterway directly and indirectly impacts. As Phytoplankton plays a vital role in every life it would seem odd that we do not understand much about them. It is important to understand the ways of these microscopic algae, how they work, in what environments, affected by what factors and when. Approaching the issues with Harmful Algal Blooms (HABs) and understanding the disastrous effects they have South of my proposed research sites it would give guidance to monitor surrounding locations in order to prevent a spread or growth from alike environmental conditions. This cost-efficient research could prevent damage to supported organisms of the Intracoastal Waterway and save the surrounding counties from the devastations of health, investment of time and financial support. 


Thank You for Your Time,

Whitney M. Minnich


Friday, May 1, 2020

Holly Monroe (UR)- Completed Water Quality Testing

I have collected all of the data I could from testing the water quality of a local pond. I have attached the salinity and Biochemical Oxygen demand (BOD) graphs along with a scientific interpretation of both. 
NOTE: On the BOD graph it filled in the dates 4-19-20 and 4-15-20 and I was unsure how to remove these dates. Testing did not occur on either of those days because of the 5 day waiting period.
POSSIBLE ERROR: I had previously struggled to read the salinity readings on the two dates that it had appeared to be 2ppt.
Salinity
Salinity on 4-22-20 was greater than the salinity on 4-24-20 (2ppt and 0ppt, respectively).

BOD
Biochemical Oxygen demand was greater on 4-17-20 than 4-21-20 (0ppm and 4ppm, respectively).