Earlier this year, I had the opportunity to present Water Quality 101—a straightforward, no-jargon introduction to something we all rely on every single day: clean, safe water. Whether you’re filling up a glass at the sink or jumping into a lake, water quality plays a critical role in our health, ecosystems, and communities.
During the session, I broke down the key factors that define water quality—things like pH, turbidity, dissolved oxygen, and contaminants. We also talked about where our water comes from, how it’s treated, and what happens when it’s not managed properly. I wanted to make sure everyone left with a basic understanding of how to read a water report and why it matters to stay informed, especially as climate change and pollution continue to impact our water sources.
The best part? Seeing people connect the dots between what’s in their tap and the broader environmental systems at play. I kept it interactive, with simple demos and real-life examples that made the science feel accessible.
Presenting Water Quality 101 reminded me just how empowering knowledge can be. When people understand the “why” behind water testing and safety, they’re more likely to advocate for it in their neighborhoods. That’s exactly the kind of ripple effect we need.
