Smithsonian Environmental Research Center

Thousands of people around the world will dip a little vial into their local stream or bay on October 18 and measure the quality of their water in a united effort to celebrate the second annual world water monitoring day. The Smithsonian Environmental Research Center (SERC) will host the official kick-off event on its pier along the western shore of the Chesapeake Bay with an address from U.S. Department of State Assistant Secretary John F. Turner, U.S. EPA Associate Administrator for Water Resources Benjamin Grumbles, and NOAA’s Acting Deputy Assistant Administrator for the National Oceans Service Alan Neuschatz.

From 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. the distinguished speakers will be joined by foreign dignitaries, school children, and other guests as they conduct water quality tests, explore the Rhode River on one of the Center’s research vessels and sample fish and invertebrates from surrounding waters. The festivities aim to help raise awareness and stimulate international interest in the importance of ensuring clean water for people around the world. The event will also be webcast live on SERC’s website at: http://www.serc.si.edu.

The first World Water Monitoring Day in 2003 included 4,800 sites in the United States and 433 sites in 23 other countries. This year, participants from all 50 states and 35 countries have already registered and the number of participants grows daily. Registrants receive a testing kit from the American Clean Water Foundation which founded and organizes the event. Results of the tests can be posted on the Foundation’s Website where they provide a snapshot of global water quality and may help illustrate water quality trends throughout the years.

SERC is a global leader in research and education on connections between ecosystems at the land-water margin. As part of this broad mission, SERC has been studying and disseminating results of water quality studies in the Chesapeake Bay watershed and other sites around the world throughout its 40-year history. Through collaborative relationships and grants for specific projects, SERC partners with NOAA and EPA on research and environmental education throughout the coastal zone.

Note to Editors: Media are invited to send a reporter and or photographer/film crew to cover the event. If any are interested in joining one of our distinguished guests aboard the 45-minute boat tour, please contact SERC to ensure a space.

 

World Water Monitoring Day Celebration
Smithsonian Environmental Research Center
647 Contees Wharf Road Edgewater, Maryland