For more information or questions
changingcurrents@ecospark.ca
or 647-258-3280 x 2011
EcoSpark – Changing Currents is a popular citizen science project that inspires students in the Greater Toronto Area to engage with nature through scientific monitoring of local waterways. The program involves students, typically in grades 6-12, donning hip waders to assess the health of nearby streams and rivers using the Ontario Benthic Biomonitoring Network (OBBN) protocol. This method includes monitoring physical, chemical, and biological parameters, such as benthic macro-invertebrates (small aquatic bugs), to gauge water quality. The data collected contributes to the OBBN database, aiding researchers in studying Ontario’s water health.
The program offers half-day workshops where students conduct stream assessments and participate in community “Take Action” activities. Full-day options are available, including additional citizen science activities like bird, pollinator, invasive species studies, and tree identification. A specialized full-day program for Specialist High Skills Major (SHSM) students offers certification in stream monitoring, including in-depth analysis and benthos identification.
Due to unforeseen circumstances, in-person sessions were unavailable for Fall 2022, with only virtual sessions offered