Determining The Condition Of The Reddam House Wetlands

Nathina Martin

Grade 12

Biology Project

2014

Table of Contents

Introduction: 2

Literature review: 3

Water analysis: 3

Soil Analysis: 3

Plant and Animal Species Analysis: 3

Method of Research: 4

1. Water Analysis: 4

2. Soil Analysis: 4

3. Plant and Animal Species Analysis: 4

Results: 6

Conclusion: 9 Introduction:

Reddam House is built on a wetland and it is imperative that the wetland poses no negative effects on the public health and safety, especially that of the Reddam House students and staff.

The aim of this research report is to analyse the condition of the Reddam House wetland in order to determine the relationship between the condition of the wetland with the health and safety of Reddam House students and staff. The research

These factors include, water hazards, soil hazards and animal and plant hazards. The water needs to be tested in order to reveal if there is any risk to the human health as a result of pathogens, pH levels, toxicity etc. It is important as the aquatic life forms a major factor in deciding whether the wetland is suitable for use or not. Similarly, soil hazards need to be investigated with respect to the wetland. Soil may be a breeding ground for pathogens and bacteria, hence this needs to be tested in order to determine any risk to human beings. Animals and plants form a great part in deciding whether the wetland is safe or not, as certain plants and trees as well as animals may be vectors for diseases or poisonous to human

If toxins are found to be present in the water, it poses a threat to the health and safety of students and staff exposed to the wetland.

• The water analysis will also determine whether harmful bacteria and pathogens are found in the wetland.

• Upon analysis of the water, one will also be able to determine whether it is suitable as a source of drinking water for human beings.

• The depth of the water will shed light as to whether the wetland is a physical hazard to the students and staff as a possible site for drowning.

• Determining the pH of the wetland water will help one to determine whether it is too alkaline or acidic to be safe for human beings

Soil Analysis:

• Soil analysis can provide information about organic matter in the soil, drainage, biotic activity, and fertility.

• Identifying the different aspects of soil such as colour, compaction, moisture, soil structure and soil texture will help in determining whether the soil can act as a breeding ground for pathogenic diseases.

• Soil temperature plays a major role in determining the rate of plant growth. Certain temperatures are optimum for the growth of bacteria and fungi which could be hazardous as it may be disease