Lab: Infiltration measurement and Wetland Observation

Objectives - When you are done with today's fieldwork, you should be able to:
1. Describe how surface permeability, slope, saturation, and rate of rainfall affect the amount of water that runs off the land surface.
2. Give examples how people affect the infiltration and runoff of water.
3. Diagram and describe the relationship between groundwater and wetlands.
4. Identify water table level as the factor that causes a swamp or a marsh.
5. Give examples of wetland encroachment.

Instructions. You may start at any station. Watch your time and make sure you finish recording your data and observations at all five stations by the end of the period. While you are in the area of the swamp, look for any signs that portions of the wetland may have been filled in for building. Record those observations here:

Station 1: Measure the rate of infiltration in natural forest soil. Pour a measured amount of water into the can stuck in the ground and time how long it takes to soak in. Record the amount of water and the dimensions of the can so you can later calculate the ml/cm2/sec infiltration rate.
Measurements:

Calculations:
 

Station 2: Measure the rate of infiltration in a compacted grassed area. Pour a measured amount of water into the can stuck in the ground and time how long it takes to soak in. Record the amount of water and the dimensions of the can so you can later calculate the ml/cm2/sec infiltration rate.
Measurements:

Calculations:
 

Station 3: Use a soil tube to sample the swamp soil. Record your observations. Why do think there is so much organic material here? What effect does this have on groundwater flow and stream flooding?

Station 4: Observe the area around the outlet of the storm drain. Record your observations. How do think this affects water quality in the stream? Why?
 

Station 5: Observe the water in the stream. Record your observations. What effect do you think the swamp has on the clarity of the water? Why?

Conclusion - Refer to your list of wetland learning objectives and describe what you learned in this exercise: