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What steps can you take to decrease the amount of nitrogen
released into the environment? 		Student Worksheet

We all benefit from agriculture. We all contribute to run-off. We all burn fossil fuel. We create waste. All of these factors are contributing to harmful effects on the ocean. So, no matter where you live, you are impacting the ocean and the environment. It is important to be aware of this and take simple steps every day to help decrease your impact.


Procedure
1. Create a working group of 4 - 6 students. Create a companion poster (or alternative media) for the "Environmental Issues" poster. This time, use the links to begin research on steps people can take to decrease the amount of nitrogen and other pollutants we release into the environment.

Each poster should:
  • Explain why excess nitrogen is an environmental issue.
  • Explain simple steps every person can take to reduce their impact on the ocean and the environment.
  • Focus on steps that are relevant to people in your area (i.e., city, rural).
Resources:
Do's and Don't's Around the House Adopt-A-Street in Your 'Hood A Citizen's Guide to Protecting Our Coast
Green Landscaping Your Car and Clean Air Calculate how much CO2 you emit every year

2. Hang the posters around the school to inform other students about the issues and possible solutions.


Extension
1.   Picture Prompt - Choose one image. What words would you use to describe this image? Explain the connection to nitrogen. Describe connection to humans.

Photo from Environment News Service

2.   Consider running a series of public service announcements in your school.


Assessment
1.   Review the site characterization worksheet completed at the water sampling site. Were there any obvious features of the site that would contribute to nitrogen entering the water? For example, do many people walk their pets in the area? Are there many storm drains nearby? Is the site near a large farm, golf course or urban area?
2.   How do you think the area could be changed to decrease the amount of nutrients entering the water?

                 
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