Stormwater Runoff Project Insights

Greg Hunter discusses a collaborative project involving seventh-grade students, teachers, and scientists to address stormwater runoff issues. The project aimed to provide students with knowledge about the environment, access to authentic data, and experience in the engineering design process. Students worked with scientists to collect and analyze data, identifying the impact of stormwater runoff on local biodiversity. They then redesigned the school's stormwater system using green infrastructure. The project concluded with the installation of a rain garden, supported by a grant, and acknowledgments to all contributors.

What was the primary goal of the stormwater runoff project at Timberlane Middle School?

• To build a new school building

• To provide students with knowledge about the natural world and engineering design

• To organize a sports event

• To improve students' math skills

Who collaborated with Timberlane Middle School on the stormwater runoff project?

• The Watershed Institute

• Local government officials

• A private company

• A nearby university

What was the purpose of collecting data at local stream sites?

• To find new fish species

• To test new fishing equipment

• To measure water temperature

• To understand the impact of stormwater runoff on biodiversity

How did students use the data collected from the stream sites?

• To create art projects

• To plan a field trip

• To analyze the connection between stormwater runoff and biodiversity

• To write a novel

What was the new task for students after analyzing the data?

• To redesign the stormwater runoff system at their school

• To organize a community event

• To create a documentary film

• To write a report for the local newspaper

What green infrastructure did students learn about to reduce stormwater impact?

• Electric cars

• Solar panels

• Wind turbines

• Rain gardens and bioswales

What was installed at Timberlane Middle School as part of the project?

• A new sports field

• A library

• A rain garden

• A computer lab

Which organization helped with the grant for the rain garden?

• A local business

• A private donor

• Friends of Hopewell Valley Open Space

• Local government

What was the role of the Watershed Institute in the project?

• To provide financial support

• To collaborate in data collection and education

• To organize sports events

• To build new infrastructure

What was the overall impact of the project on students?

• Improved sports skills

• Better cooking skills

• Enhanced understanding of environmental issues and engineering

• Increased interest in literature