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DEP seeks volunteers

By Staff | Dec 4, 2008

The Florida Department of Environmental Protection (DEP), Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve office is looking for volunteers to participate in an ongoing water quality monitoring program within Estero Bay.

The Charlotte Harbor Estuaries Volunteer Water Quality Monitoring Network (CHEVWQMN) program is a partnership of Florida Department of Environmental Protection’s (FDEP) Charlotte Harbor Aquatic Preserves (CHAP) and Estero Bay Aquatic Preserve (EBAP), the Charlotte Harbor Environmental Center (CHEC), the Charlotte Harbor National Estuary Program (CHNEP), and local citizens. The purpose of the program is to collect consistent, technically sound water quality data throughout the aquatic preserves to determine baseline conditions and trends in habitat health. Results are used to set resource management goals. Forty-six stations are monitored monthly by a corps of over 70 highly trained volunteers, and sites are monitored on the first Monday of the month at sunrise.

Estero Bay sites are currently available, either year-round or seasonal (May-Oct). Boating volunteers and alternates are especially needed. Participants conduct field testing and collect samples for laboratory analysis. Samples and data sheets are dropped off at the EBAP office for transportation to the lab.

A monthly commitment is required. For reservations and information, call the Preserve office at 463-3240 Monday through Friday.