H₂-Oh! What’s in the Water? Engaging Secondary Students in Biodiversity Monitoring with Environmental DNA (eDNA)

What is this project about?

H₂-Oh! What’s in the Water? is an exciting project that will give high school students at Grey Highlands Secondary School the chance to experience biodiversity research using environmental DNA (eDNA). eDNA is a modern molecular technology that identifies species from tiny traces of DNA shed by living things. In this project, students will collect samples from local streams, extract and analyze DNA using advanced molecular tools rarely available at the high school level, and work alongside conservation and scientific experts to understand their results. This project will connect classroom learning with real environmental monitoring methods and local conservation goals. After a successful launch, the program aims to run annually to engage students in long-term biomonitoring and experiential learning opportunities that will strengthen both science education and community stewardship.
LEAF-Grant-Image.pdf

Why is this project important to the community?

Grey County’s rivers and tributaries sustain rich ecosystems and local livelihoods but face growing pressures from land use change, invasive species, and climate impacts (Grey Sauble Conservation Authority, 2023). The H₂-Oh! What’s in the Water? project is designed to empower youth to monitor ecosystems through hands-on research. It connects school curriculum with local conservation goals to build scientific literacy and foster pride in environmental stewardship. Research shows that hands-on, field-based learning of this kind strengthens both academic outcomes and environmental stewardship (Kuo et al., 2019). By exposing students in both traditional biomonitoring methods (e.g., kick-net biomonitoring of benthic macroinvertebrates) and cutting-edge eDNA analysis, the project aims to cultivate a new generation of informed, environmentally conscious citizens.
Target Completion Date
June 30, 2027
Location
100 Toronto Rd
Flesherton
N0C1E0

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