August and September:

These months were spent preparing the class for recording data through the use of Vernier probes. We also learned the technique for netting benthic organisms. We also were trained in the identification of these organisms. This was done at Riverview Park on the Rivanna River.The first sampling of mussels was done in Rocky Creek with the class. We did the first chemical and benthic set of data at Rocky creek and Buck Mountain creek. 

 

October:

In early October we went to West Virginia to practice our protocol for collecting data. Upon return, we tested our hypothesis related to stream chemistry. We downloaded and learned how to use Fathom as a means to calculating pValues. We did another mussel count at Rocky Creek, and we took our second set of physical and benthic data at Rocky creek and Buck Mountain creek.

 

November:

In the month of November, we did a third mussel count at Rocky creek but were able to do the chemical and benthic testing. 

 

January and February:

During these months each student designed and implemented their own lab-based research experiment. We recorded chemical and benthic data at Rocky creek and Buck Mountain creek. At the end of February, we cleared and marked the new research site at the headwaters of Rocky creek. Unfortunately, we were unable to survey this stretch due to Covid-19. 

 

March, April, and May:

We started to create the class website and reflected on the past procedures throughout the year.