Document Type

Report

Abstract

Ponds are commonly found in urban areas serving as both an aesthetic and ecological feature. The water quality of these ponds can make important contributions to the overall health of the watershed in which they reside. This study analyzes three ponds within the Plaster Creek Watershed: the Southbridge Condominium Association Pond, the Calvin University Seminary Pond, and the Calvin University Ecosystem Preserve Kettle Swamp. This project aims to provide the Southbridge Condo Association with data that will inform future remediation actions. Using water samples collected over three days, E. coli, pH, nutrients, and total dissolved solids were measured in each pond. We hypothesized that measurements taken from the Condo Pond and Seminary Pond would be similar and would indicate unhealthy levels of these variables when compared to EPA standards. We found that the Condo Pond had high levels of E. coli (colonies/100mL), elevated pH, and higher levels of TDS when compared with the other two ponds. We also found that the two Calvin ponds had higher nutrient concentrations. Suggested treatment strategies and study limitations are discussed.

Publication Date

12-17-2024

Included in

Biology Commons

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