The Function and Fate of Lake Truly
Lake Truly is a shallow body of standing water formed as a part of the UW Bothell/Cascadia College wetlands restoration. Although referred to as a ‘lake’ on campus, its ecological function is unclear. We will monitor water flow from the creek to and from the lake, water quality, sediment accumulation, and the presence and diversity of primary producers and fish in the lake to better understand how the lake is functioning as an aquatic habitat and possible fish refuge, as well as it’s fate as the shallow lake fills in with sediment and vegetation.
Student Outcomes
- Students will gain skills in field measurements of water quantity and quality, including calibration and use of flow meters, water quality sondes, and similar equipment.
- Students will gain familiarity with biological monitoring techniques including underwater cameras, plankton collection, and microscopy
- Students will gain confidence in data management, project planning, and independent decision making
- Students will improve written and oral presentation skills
Student Qualifications
Students would benefit from having some coursework in Biology or Environmental Science, but no specific courses are required to inquire. Must be comfortable hiking and wading in the wetlands and potentially operating a small human-powered boat on the lake.
Student Responsibilities
- Depending on the project role and season, the student will go into the wetlands/lake on a weekly to monthly basis to collect samples, initially with guidance and eventually independently.
- The student will work independently to collect and verify data, which may include reviewing video capture, counting samples under a microscope, or database management of chemical data.
- Students will be responsible for establishing and managing a sample schedule and reporting to faculty at regular meetings.
- Students will be asked to conduct research on relevant findings and present at the Undergraduate Research Fair.
Time Commitment
Up to one year, six-month minimum preferred.