Nemaksciai Martynas Mazvydas Gymnasium

What is hidden in the Balcia waters?

Nemaksciai, Lithuania

2nd FUNDING CALL

The project “What is Hiding in the Waters of Balčia?” aims to examine the water quality of the Balčia stream at three specific points: its source, a popular bathing spot, and where it flows into the Šešuvis River. In addition to water testing, the project will involve clearing debris from these areas and enhancing water literacy among students and the community through educational activities and international collaboration.

Objectives

• Investigate the water quality at three points of the Balčia stream.
• Clean the shores of selected study sites from debris.
• Enhance water literacy among students and the community.
• Promote awareness of the Balčia stream’s tributaries and their environmental significance.

Activities

First Month:

• Form the project team.
• Inform the gymnasium community about the project.
• Prepare a detailed activity plan.
• Search for project partners.
• Disseminate project information online in Lithuanian and English.

Second to Seventh Month:

• Educational trips to various environmental and research centers.
• Acquire necessary equipment for water testing.
• Execute students’ creative works.

Eighth Month:

• Study the water quality of the Balčia stream.
• Clean and sort garbage at three research points along the stream.
• Community event: “Test the water!”

Ninth to Tenth Month:

• Summarize project results.
• Organize a conference to share findings.

Outputs

• Detailed study and cleanup of the Balčia stream at three points.
• Knowledge about the Balčia stream’s tributaries and their environmental impact.
• Methodical material on water quality research for science lessons, shared with district teachers.
• Project progress and results are disseminated to the high school, district community, and international partners.

Stakeholders will participate in cleaning the Balčia stream shores, educational trips, and the final conference. During the project promotion, the community can test water from their living environments. Updates will be provided on the high school’s website.

The project integrates environmental education into the school curriculum, promoting water literacy and sustainability. It encourages students to participate in ongoing environmental projects and activities, fostering a culture of environmental stewardship.