Student Research Reports

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Evaluating the water quality of a stream is essential for determining potential sources of impairment. The Rouge and Ecorse Rivers are two urban streams impacted by the land they flow through in Dearborn Heights, a suburban community in Southeastern Michigan. This research sought to discover if any correlations exist between conductivity, salinity, and TDS (total dissolved solids). Measurements were taken during a short period of testing extending from mid to late March. During the testing period, weather conditions remained consistent with the exception of light rain one day. Vernier conductivity, temperature, turbidity, and salinity probes were used to monitor water at each of the two sites. A water sample from each site was taken back to the school to determine TDS because it requires an analytical balance (measuring to the nearest milligram) and a drying oven. Analysis of our data indicates strong correlations between conductivity, salinity, turbidity, and TDS. The relationship between these variables could potentially make it more efficient to test water quality parameters by using one to find the other two. This means less time and money to obtain the same data. We recommend that future researchers continue to find additional solutions and ways to streamline testing water quality parameters.