Middle and high school students from three counties studying Flint River quality

FLINT, Michigan—Student scientists from Saginaw, Genesee, and Lapeer Counties will soon come together to discuss their findings on the quality of the Flint River.

The summit of the Flint River Watershed’s Flint River GREEN program, the students, from grades 6-12, used chemistry kits to test the water quality of local streams and the Flint River. Results help students identify any water quality issues, prompting them to research potential causes of any problems. Organizers say the science gives students a platform to explore solutions through civic action.

“Students spend an average of two weeks inside and outside of the classroom working together with their peers, learning about water quality, discovering their personal connection to the watershed, exploring STEM careers, honing their presentation skills, and learning new ways to become environmental stewards,” said Program Manager Autumn Mitchell.

Students will present their findings May 18 at Kettering University from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. In addition to presenting their water quality findings, students at the summit will attend breakout sessions with experts from a variety of environmental fields.

“The summit provides students with their first professional conference experience and allows sharing of information from school to school demonstrating how we are all connected,” Mitchell said.

More information about Flint River GREEN can be found at flintrivergreen.org For more information on the Flint River Watershed Coalition visit www.flintriver.org or send an email to [email protected].

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