Childrens Participation in the Evaluation of Bio-Indicators of Water Quality in Rural Communities

B. Kohlmann, R.O. Russo, J. Itzep and R. Sols

EARTH University, Costs Rica

21st Century Watershed Technology: Improving Water Quality and Environment 21-24 February, 2010, Gucimo, Costa Rica
Abstract. The management of bioindicators of water quality in rural communities emphasizes the importance of enabling organized groups to evaluate the quality of water resources through apprenticeship and execution of sampling methods of macro-invertebrates (biomonitoring), that can be complemented with an evaluation of physical-chemical analysis properties (pH, COD, DBO, T, BOD) of the aquatic environment. This study seeks to address children's participation in environmental issues, and explores a new tool for evaluating water quality. With the participation of school children of Las Mercedes School and students of Gucimo High School, samples were taken using the biomonitoring BMWP -CR (Biological Monitoring Working Party, modified for Costa Rica), index to determine the water quality of two communities in the Caribbean region of Costa Rica. The most abundant macroinvertebrates present in the samples were: Trichoptera, Coleoptera, Ephemeroptera, Odonata, Plecoptera and Hemiptera. During the collection of macro-invertebrate samples, specimens from the Perlidae family were encountered, this family being a bioindicator of excellent water quality. During the practice the school-children communities developed an environmental conscience, organization abilities, and the assimilation of the technique in the community water resources evaluation process. Keywords. Biomonitoring, bioindicators , macro-invertebrates, river pollution, Costa Rica.

Introduction
Water quality is an important factor to ensure the health and life of organisms. Macroinvertebrates are considered suitable bioindicators for this water feature (Roldan, 2003), because they indicate environmental changes of water bodies such as rivers, streams or watersheds over time in terms of anthropogenic alterations (Mafla, 2005). In order to name macroinvertebrates in water there is an illustrated tutorial that allows their identification according to family taxonomic rank (Springer et al., 2007). Water quality can be categorized according to the index BMWP'-CR (Biological Monitoring Working Party, adapted to Costa Rica), which assigns a score between 1 and , although maximum values of 200 and above are usual, according to the tolerance of the macroinvertebrates at different levels of contamination. This allows us to say that the implementation of biomonitoring is a technique that involves the participation of rural communities, if they are trained in a properly way. The biomonitoring technique also teaches the inhabitants of rural communities to raise awareness to reduce pollution of water resources, to foster teamwork among the community, to identify the species of macroinvertebrates in rivers nearby and watch the trend of water quality for a period of time. Depending on the degree of pollution it is feasible to make modifications to achieve conservation and decontamination efforts (Soledispa, 1997). This study aims to train school children on the determination of water quality through the implementation of a participatory and economically viable strategy that is based on the presence of biological indicators and as an independent support and corroboration for physical-chemical evaluations of aquatic environments.

Materials and Methods

The whole process of learning and application of the methodology was conducted by two groups of children and two college students. In the Las Mercedes school group, sixteen girls and twelve boys (10 to 13 years old), two mothers and a school teacher. participated In the Gucimo High School group, a junior section with four women, eight men, a teacher, and a senior section with eleven women, three men and a teacher, participated with ages ranging from12 to 17. years A participatory methodology of biomonitoring was applied following an experimental protocol with a descriptive and exploratory approach to assess river water quality in two local communities, according the following sequence: 1. Group Selection in the Pocora and Gucimo communities. 2. Proposal of bioindicator project management to principals of each school. 3. Following project acceptance, activity coordination with teachers in charge. 4. Organization of biomonotoring training workshops with children groups. 5. Sample collection of macroinvertebrates in streams and rivers near to schools. 6. Sample identification performed by student groups . 7. Tabulation and data analysis. Sampling was performed for 30 minutes at various points along streams and rivers for each site (Table 1). Two methods were used to sample macroinvertebrates, direct and net collection, specimens were preserved in 70% alcohol. Table 1. Location of sampling sites.

Location Dos Novillos River

Site Latitude (m)* 1 1124241,882 2 1124573,133 Las Mercedes Creek 1 1124798,783 2 1124798,783 Gucimo River 1 1129428,958 2 1129657,681 Gucimo School Creek 1 1129581,378 2 1129771,719 *CRTM-90 System (Costa Rica Transverse Mercator)

Longitude (m)* 542583,013 542083,984 542936,132 542936,132 537068,278 537377,821 536390,710 536858,464

Altitude (masl) 113,2 108,8 101,3 53,4 77,9 72,6 85,8 80,1

The identification of macroinvertebrates was made with the aid of an illustrated guide (Springer et al., 2007) and water quality was determined using the BMWP'-CR (Biological Monitoring Working Party, adapted to Costa Rica) index, which assigns a specific value to the different macroinvertebrate families, according to their degree of pollution sensitivity. At the time of the biomonitoring, samples were taken to analyze water for biochemical oxygen demand (BOD) and chemical oxygen demand (COD) (Clesceri et al., 1999). Dissolved oxygen (DO), water temperature (T), and pH values were measured directly during river sampling. The data from these parameters are the result of a four repetition average performed concurrently with during biomonitoring. These data were collected during the following months: May, June, August, and September 2007. The BOD and COD values are the May and September averages.

Results and Discussion

Biomonitoring

Below are the results of the water classification using biological indicators, doing four replications at each of the two river sampling sites. These results are presented using bar graphs, as described in Figure 1. Figure 1. Color interpretation indicating water quality level.
Excellent water quality Good water quality, not polluted or not appreciably altered Regular water quality, eutrophication, pollution moderate Poor water quality, contaminated Poor water quality, highly contaminated Very poor water quality, highly contaminated

Figure 2 shows the results of sampling in the Dos Novillos River and the Mercedes Creek. The data show monthly variations due to different rainfall levels during sampling..

Figure 2. Water quality classification of the Dos Novillos River and Mercedes Creek using the BMWP'-CR index.

Site 1 Site 2 Dos Novillos River

Site 1 Site 2 Mercedes Creek

In general, it can be seen that river water quality in the Dos Novillos River varies from fair to good during the months of May, June, August, and September. Trichoptera, of the Hydropsychidae family are the most abundant organisms for site 1, and for site 2 Ephemeroptera, of the Leptohyphidae family, both indicators of good to regular water quality. The Mercedes Creek showed a regular water quality according to the BMWP'-CR indez, which reported a moderate level of pollution. Macroinvertebrates found in great abundance were represented by the order Trichoptera (larval Hydropsychidae). These larvae are indicators of good to regular water quality, they were predominantly observed in slow-running water and pools, where sediment is deposited. The Gucimo River has a regular water quality level, according to the BMWP'-CR index (Figure 3), which indicates a moderate water pollution. Although the river has a moderately large channel, the data collected showed uniformity during the months when the samples were taken, showing a slight variation in time. Figure 3. Water quality classification of the Gucimo River and Gucimo High School Creek using the BMWP'-CR index.

Site 1

Site 2

Site 1

Site 2

Gucimo River

Gucimo H.S. Creek

Macroinvertebrates of order Ephemeroptera (Leptophlebiidae), were most abundant in all samples of the Gucimo River. This taxon is an excellent indicator of good water quality. Also, the orders Trichoptera (Hydropsychidae) and Ephemeroptera (Baetidae) were found; both taxa are indicators of good to regular water quality. Gucimo High School Creek showed water quality levels ranging from regular to poor for (Figure 3), indicating polluted water in both sites. This is to be expected because this creek flows through the town of Gucimo, and a point pollution source is draining into the creek before site 2, in the form of a tilapia and pig farm waste discharge. This large amount of settled solids foster larval growth. This level of poor water quality is confirmed by comparing differences with the other sampled rivers. This is the only site having more than one dipteran bioindicator and other indicators of fair to poor water quality (Hemiptera). Gucimo High School Creek was characterized by the presence of large numbers of larvae of the order Trichoptera (Hydropsychidae), which are good indicators of good to regular water quality. Below are the orders and families of macroinvertebrates found in large numbers during sampling (Figures 46). Figure 4. Bioindicators of excelent to good water quality.

Order: Ephemeroptera Family: Leptophlebiidae

Order: Plecoptera Family: Perlidae

Figure 5. Bioindicators of good to regular water quality.

Orden: Ephemeroptera Family: Baetidae

Orden: Ephemeroptera Family: Leptohyphidae

Orden: Trichoptera Family: Hydropsychidae

Orden: Coleoptera Family: Psephenidae

Figure 6. Bioindicators of regular to poor water quality.

Order: Odonata Family: Coenagrionidae

Order: Hemiptera Family: Naucoridae

Physical-chemical analysis The interpretation of dissolved oxygen (DO) values indicates that figures greater than 8 mg / L are considered as an indication of very little to no organic pollution, from 6 to 8 mg / L are moderately polluted, from 4 to 6 mg / L very polluted, from 2 to 4 mg / L critically polluted, and less than 2 mg / L extremely polluted. Following this logic Mercedes Creek is moderately polluted, Dos Novillos River is almost moderately polluted, and the Gucimo river and creek are critically polluted. Table 2. Average results of physical-chemical analysis of water from rivers and creeks studied.

River or Creek Site Dos Novillos River 1 2 Mercedes Creek 1 2 Gucimo River 1 2 Gucimo HS Creek 1 2

DO (mg/L) 6,05 5,85 7,43 6,62 3,73 2,88 2,35 4,28

T (C) 23,65 22,85 23,03 23,58 24,93 24,95 23,75 23,05

pH

BOD (mg/L)

COD (mg/L) 11,50 9,00 7,00 n.a. 11,50 10,15 17,00 10,00

6,79 6,71 6,61 6,68 7,07 6,39 7,15 6,84

5,25 4,88 3,50 n.a. 9,50 9,03 6,50 5,63

The pH levels for most aquatic organisms range from 5.6 to 8.5. Then, pH values for this study are within normal standards (Table 2). The BOD and COD values, remain within a narrow range (Table 2). When comparing physical-chemical values with the bioindicators indexes one can expect apparent contradictions with the results, because the former system represents an instant in time, whereas the biomonitoring reflects long-term and continuous environmental effects. Participatory experience

Each group presented a characteristic behavior. High-School students showed much attention, and starting already the second day they demonstrated a fair knowledge about the biomonitoring process. Beginning with the third sample they exhibited a good performance during the biomonitoring process, due in great part to the fact that they were self directed. The identification process elicited a strong interest in knowing the names of the different macroinvertebrates. Furthermore, these students showed interest in comparing the quality of their local rivers with those at EARTH University. On the contrary, primary- school students showed exhaustion and despair after three consecutive samples in the same day, as was the case of the second sampling. However, the interest to continue sampling during the following days induced a responsible and positive attitude in relation to the learning activities. Comments from teachers and students During biomonitoring we realized that rivers are polluted, and we humans are contributing to such pollution. So, we should not throw garbage into the rivers and you have to tell everyone the importance of water and our rivers. - Mara Jos Lugo, student at Las Mercedes primary-school. Now we know that there is life in rivers, do not pollute. -Sharon Gonzlez, student at Las Mercedes primary-school. It is important to collaborate and participate in extracurricular activities that benefit our children's knowledge. - Student mother, Las Mercedes primary-school. Now we know more about water monitoring. In this moment we can be mentors for other students and we can help avoid the spread of river pollution. - Anonymous student at Gucimo High-School. In determining the degree of river pollution it is important to create measures that will help reduce suchprocess. However, this implies the establishment of laws, policies, and the implementation of water treatment, with the collaboration of governmental institutions in each region. - Berny Ulate, teacher at Gucimo High-School. With the sampling of macroinvertebrates we can determine water quality. It is remarkable to observe the change the two sampling points in our school creek. The polluting effect of the pigsty on the water quality is notable. - Jaison Alfaro, teacher at Gucimo High-School. Advantages of grouping of the students Easy organization of groups when taking data in the sampling sites, because with the help of teachers subgroups remained orderly. Availability and interest of groups to practice the art, as demonstrated the capability of understanding and responsibility to conduct biomonitoring in the place and time required. Commitment and authorization of principals and teachers of schools for the development of the work plan with the students in communities, valuating biomonitoring as an extracurricular activity that shows from another point of view the community resources and the community influence on the water quality of creeks and rivers. The proper size of groups provided greater control and security on subgroups, so they are able to serve all and avoid accidents. It was noted that the sub-working groups comprised of 4 or 5 students facilitates the organization and making data more representative of situations of rivers and creeks. For example: one or two children take the collection net, others move the stones and finally all children seek in the net the specimens collected.

Advantages of Biomonitoring Techniques

The use of macroinvertebrate in biomonitoring allows the application of the technique in sites with resource-poor settings because it does not require high-resolution equipment. With the help of a mesh and / or strainer and a guide to identify the spot, or a jar containing 70 degrees alcohol to keep them. The use of a identification guide for macroinvertebrates corrected to the area allows proper identification of samples, thus safer and representativeness of the data to the real situation of

rivers and creeks studied. The illustrated guide allows for quick visual identification of the bioindicators present in the area. The technique is simple and easy assimilation by the groups, it can be used by people who can read and write, can even be implemented by groups with literacy difficulties writing.

Disadvantages of grouping of students

The low level of awareness that groups have on natural resources and mitigating environmental impacts retards the ability to understand the reasons for the determination of water quality in communities. Organization of groups to follow the process and take corrective actions to reduce pollution levels in rivers and creeks in the area. This time the process was implemented during the period from March to September. Classes conclude in November and students move to other schools, however, we believe that teachers can keep sampling per month with other groups. The location of the rivers is a determinant of access. Depending on the distance and obstacles to reach the rivers, should be regarded as means of transport or other access routes that present no danger of accidents. Changes in the schedule of activities generated distortion in the sampling dates. This is due to changes of dates during the school classes (holidays, contingency, completion of classes), or climatic conditions (rainfall).

Disadvantages of biomonitoring techniques The use of nets to collect insects in very fast currents is not appropriate, because children cannot open the net, this having been the cause of accidents. After heavy rains, in stony rivers the number of macroinvertebrates drops, therefore strongly influencing BMWP'-CR values. Communities wish to understand and determine the specific causes of pollution, biomonitoring fails clarify this situation.. Conclusions According to biomonitoring BMWP'-CR indexes, it was concluded that Las Mercedes Creek and the Gucimo River have a regular level of water quality (moderate pollution), while the Dos Novillos River and the Gucimo High School Creek have poor to fair quality water (contaminated with moderate pollution). No awareness of the community water resources was observed in students prior to sampling. However, after learning the biomonitoring techniques, they reflected a greater knowledge, interest and commitment to participate and protect this valuable resource. The use of the macroinvertebrate identification guide, tailored to the tropical area, allowed the proper identification of samples, and thus a real evaluation of the actual situation of the studied rivers and creeks..

References
Clesceri, L., A. Greenberg, and A. Eaton. 1999. Standard methods for examination of water and wastewater. 20th ed. Washington (US) : American Public Health Association. 1325 p. ISBN 08-7553235-7. Mafla, M. 2005. Gua para la realizacin de evaluaciones ecolgicas rpidas en ros de tamao mediano con indicadores biolgicos, Talamanca-Costa Rica. Turrialba (CR) : CATIE. 86 p. Roldn, G. 2003. Bioindicacin de la calidad del agua en Colombia: propuesta para el uso del mtodo BMWP/Col. 1 ed. Antioquia (CO) : Universidad de Antioquia. 170 p. ISBN 95-8655-671-9. Springer, M., D. Vsquez, and B. Kohlmann. 2007. Bioindicadores de la calidad del agua [hoja de campo]. Gucimo (CR) : Universidad de Costa Rica (UCR); Universidad EARTH. 6 p. Soledispa, C. 1997. Biodiversidad y bioindicadores de perturbacin en la vegetacin tropical de la regin Atlntica de Costa Rica [Proyecto de Graduacin. Lic. Ing. Agr.]. Gucimo (CR) : Universidad EARTH. 84 p.