Blog Post 6: Data Collection

Samples were taken from 4 different locations on the South, North and Thompson rivers every 5 days from late January to early Febuary. At each location, a 2×2-meter sample site was determined based on factors like human traffic and access. Within this 2×2-meter site, haphazard sampling was completed for 5 replicates. This totaled 80 data points between 4 locations, 4 time periods and 5 replicates. Insuring the same site was accessed each time was difficult so I used landmarks and photos as well as some stones on the beach to know where I needed to return to.

I assumed that I would see more data overall maybe a couple of cells for late January and a lot as soon as the temperature peaked above 0˚C. Although the results do seem to support my hypothesis the algae concentrations do increase as temperatures increase just not significantly tracking the algae through into spring would give a more accurate representation.

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