Student Research Reports

View Research Report

The project was divided into two phases. In the first phase we discovered that the stream is called Valfabion, that it has a number of springs which were once used by the residents in their wells, as well as that the part of the stream was rich in different species of fish. In order to test the present state of this particular stream water quality, we used GLOBE protocols and additional measurements to examine the physico-chemical properties (colour, odour, temperature, pH value, dissolved oxygen, ammonia, nitrate etc.). The samples were collected from three locations. The employees of the Institute of the Public Health County Istra helped us with the pysico-chemical and microbiological analysis. The compared results showed elevated levels of nitrate in the chemical parameters which indicated water pollution. As an additional proof of pollution there was an increased level of fecal bacteria colonies. The aim of phase two of the project was to find out whether there was an improvement or degradation of water quality in a period of three years. Meanwhile, we have noticed the sewer had apparently dried out. We used the same research methods, compared new and old results, and concluded that water quality has improved.