MU scientists seek volunteers for one-day water quality project

COLUMBIA, Mo. — University of Missouri researchers hope to sample 100 lake and stream sites on May 7 and are looking for volunteers to pitch in as “citizen scientists.”

Members of the Lakes of Missouri Volunteer Program (LMVP), Missouri Stream Teams, Lake of the Ozarks Watershed Alliance and the Kayakswarm have committed to help, but the project needs more volunteers, said Tony Thorpe, an MU research specialist and LMVP coordinator.

The goal is to collect 100 water samples throughout the Niangua Arm of the Lake of the Ozarks, and the Niangua and Little Niangua rivers and their tributaries.

“These samples will provide us with a snapshot of water quality,” said Daniel Obrecht of the LMVP. “The data should show us how water quality changes as we move from the upstream end of the river near I-44 all the way to the Lake of the Ozarks.”

Obrecht hopes that involving citizens in the collection of water quality data will promote water stewardship throughout the region. Samples will be processed and analyzed at an MU laboratory as part of LMVP’s water-quality monitoring efforts.

Volunteers must attend a 20-minute training session before participating. The first training opportunity will be 3-7 p.m. on Tuesday, May 3, at the Bennett Springs State Park Lodge in Lebanon. The second training opportunity will be 3-7 p.m. on Wednesday, May 4, at the Missouri Department of Conservation office in Camdenton. Training will consist of site selection and sampling instruction. No prior experience is required.

According to Thorpe, the event is designed to allow plenty of flexibility to accommodate busy schedules. “Participants can sample anytime between 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. on May 7. Just make sure to get the samples to us between 9 a.m. and 7 p.m. Our lab staff will take it from there.”

To participate or for additional details, contact:

Tony Thorpe
Coordinator, Lakes of Missouri Volunteer Program 
302 ABNR
University of Missouri
Columbia, MO 65211
573-882-5430
tony@LMVP.org 
www.LMVP.org/niangua