PLEON Citizen Science on Lake Wallenpaupack
FAQ
Lake Observer App
Who designed Lake Observer?
Lake Observer is an app designed by the Global Lakes Ecological Observatory Network (GLEON) to assist in lake data collection across the globe. More information on GLEON can be found here: https://gleon.org/
Does the app remember your settings?
Yes, default settings can be created within the app so that each time you visit it is setup how you would like.
Can you check more than one box to describe algae on the datasheet and in the app?
Yes. If you see more than one type of algae, check all boxes that apply!
What photos should I upload into Lake Observer?
Upload any photos you think may be helpful, but especially algae! Try to take a wide scale photograph, as well as an up-close photograph. This will help us not only to identify the algae, but also understand its extent.
Algae
Why do we advise you wear gloves when sampling visible algae blooms?
Some algae are capable of producing toxins that are harmful to humans and pets. It is impossible to tell if toxins are present just by looking at the water. Therefore, we recommend wearing gloves when you sample in areas with visible algae blooms just to be safe. Remember: if you do not feel comfortable taking a sample while algae is present, you do not have to.
Does the water level of the lake affect the algae content?
Algae populations respond to many factors, including water depth in some lakes. The depth of the water can change the temperature of the water which can influence algae. However, it is difficult to identify the specific cause of a specific bloom. Data sets like the one being developed by the PLEON program help us look for correlations between algae abundance and many other factors.
Is duckweed a type of algae? Is it dangerous?
Duckweed is actually a tiny plant that is often mistaken for algae. It can be a nuisance but does not produce toxins.
Does the lake naturally turn green around August?
Algae are natural components of lake ecosystems and play an important role in lake food webs. Algae populations naturally fluctuate over time. Some algae thrive in warmer weather and can become more abundant in late summer. One of the goals of this program is to identify algae trends over time. This data set will help us determine when algal blooms occur and if they are becoming more frequent and lasting longer.
General
Can you take samples from lakes other than Lake Wallenpaupack?
Yes, you are able to take samples from any site of your choosing but be sure that there is a project separate from the Lake Wallenpaupack project set up for that location.
Remember that data entered into the Lake Observer App is publicly available. Check with your community or lake association to be sure this is ok.
Can you take samples from more than one site?
Yes, samples may be taken from more than one site, but be sure to keep separate data sheets for each site to avoid confusion.
How old is the data collection on Lake Wallenpaupack?
Various groups have collected water quality data in Lake Wallenpaupack since the 1980s, but PLEON data collection began in 2018.
Is water depth data being collected on Lake Wallenpaupack?
PLEON does not collect continuous water depth data for Wallenpaupack. However, water depth is a variable measured in the citizen science program.
How can you accurately measure clarity with disturbances such as passing boats?
Just do the best you can! We understand there will be certain disturbances throughout this experience which is why continued data collection throughout the whole summer is so important! Your datasheets allow us to keep track of anything that seems amiss.
What is the kit donation used for?
We ask for a donation of $50 for new kits and $10 for kit refills. These donations help to offset the cost of the kit materials as well as the laboratory analysis of the water samples.
When should I take my samples?
You should try to take your samples around the same day and time each time you sample. The best time to sample is early afternoon.
Where do I drop off my samples?
There are two drop off locations at Lacawac Sanctuary: one in the Visitor’s Center foyer and one outside of the lab. Make sure you drop off you samples as soon as possible after collection as they lose legitimacy the longer they sit. Remember to always keep them in a cooler!
Who can I contact?
With any questions or concerns, please contact Dr. Beth Norman at email: beth.norman@lacawac.org or phone: (w) 570.689.9494 - (c) 603.377.0118
Who designed Lake Observer?
Lake Observer is an app designed by the Global Lakes Ecological Observatory Network (GLEON) to assist in lake data collection across the globe. More information on GLEON can be found here: https://gleon.org/
Does the app remember your settings?
Yes, default settings can be created within the app so that each time you visit it is setup how you would like.
Can you check more than one box to describe algae on the datasheet and in the app?
Yes. If you see more than one type of algae, check all boxes that apply!
What photos should I upload into Lake Observer?
Upload any photos you think may be helpful, but especially algae! Try to take a wide scale photograph, as well as an up-close photograph. This will help us not only to identify the algae, but also understand its extent.
Algae
Why do we advise you wear gloves when sampling visible algae blooms?
Some algae are capable of producing toxins that are harmful to humans and pets. It is impossible to tell if toxins are present just by looking at the water. Therefore, we recommend wearing gloves when you sample in areas with visible algae blooms just to be safe. Remember: if you do not feel comfortable taking a sample while algae is present, you do not have to.
Does the water level of the lake affect the algae content?
Algae populations respond to many factors, including water depth in some lakes. The depth of the water can change the temperature of the water which can influence algae. However, it is difficult to identify the specific cause of a specific bloom. Data sets like the one being developed by the PLEON program help us look for correlations between algae abundance and many other factors.
Is duckweed a type of algae? Is it dangerous?
Duckweed is actually a tiny plant that is often mistaken for algae. It can be a nuisance but does not produce toxins.
Does the lake naturally turn green around August?
Algae are natural components of lake ecosystems and play an important role in lake food webs. Algae populations naturally fluctuate over time. Some algae thrive in warmer weather and can become more abundant in late summer. One of the goals of this program is to identify algae trends over time. This data set will help us determine when algal blooms occur and if they are becoming more frequent and lasting longer.
General
Can you take samples from lakes other than Lake Wallenpaupack?
Yes, you are able to take samples from any site of your choosing but be sure that there is a project separate from the Lake Wallenpaupack project set up for that location.
Remember that data entered into the Lake Observer App is publicly available. Check with your community or lake association to be sure this is ok.
Can you take samples from more than one site?
Yes, samples may be taken from more than one site, but be sure to keep separate data sheets for each site to avoid confusion.
How old is the data collection on Lake Wallenpaupack?
Various groups have collected water quality data in Lake Wallenpaupack since the 1980s, but PLEON data collection began in 2018.
Is water depth data being collected on Lake Wallenpaupack?
PLEON does not collect continuous water depth data for Wallenpaupack. However, water depth is a variable measured in the citizen science program.
How can you accurately measure clarity with disturbances such as passing boats?
Just do the best you can! We understand there will be certain disturbances throughout this experience which is why continued data collection throughout the whole summer is so important! Your datasheets allow us to keep track of anything that seems amiss.
What is the kit donation used for?
We ask for a donation of $50 for new kits and $10 for kit refills. These donations help to offset the cost of the kit materials as well as the laboratory analysis of the water samples.
When should I take my samples?
You should try to take your samples around the same day and time each time you sample. The best time to sample is early afternoon.
Where do I drop off my samples?
There are two drop off locations at Lacawac Sanctuary: one in the Visitor’s Center foyer and one outside of the lab. Make sure you drop off you samples as soon as possible after collection as they lose legitimacy the longer they sit. Remember to always keep them in a cooler!
Who can I contact?
With any questions or concerns, please contact Dr. Beth Norman at email: beth.norman@lacawac.org or phone: (w) 570.689.9494 - (c) 603.377.0118
