Level 1 study program overview

Training

Training on how to use monitoring and sampling equipment, fill out forms and fill and ship samples will be provided by BCLSS staff at no cost to volunteers. Meeting locations, date and time will be coordinated with the volunteers.

Volunteer responsibilities

The primary responsibilities of volunteers are to:

• Collect weekly water clarity (using a Secchi disk) and surface water temperature readings, as well as information on weather and wave conditions while sampling
• Conduct lake profiling on a case-by-case basis
• Maintain and store sampling equipment provided by BCLSS
• Follow the instructions and safety guidelines provided by BCLSS
• Enter field data into the standardized digital format and submit to the BCLSS office or by email to info@bclss.org within 30 days of the final sampling event for the season

Location

Each volunteer group will be provided with coordinates to a predetermined station site, from which to collect samples.

Frequency

Undertake at least 12 evenly spaced samples during ice-off season.

Timing

Samples should be taken between 10 am and 2 pm (best time to collect Secchi disk readings) and on the same day of the week when possible.

Equipment

BCLSS will provide the following equipment:

• Weighted tape measure for lake depth
• Secchi disk for measuring lake water clarity data
• Field meter (such as a YSI) for lake profile data (if available)
• Handheld thermometer for air temperature data
• Forms and instructions

Monitoring programs may also require watercrafts, fuel and other equipment required for safe watercraft operation, including personal flotation devices. These items must be supplied by volunteers.

For more information and how to volunteer for Level 1 studies, visit the BC Lake Stewardship Society.