INTRODUCTION

Bicentennial Park was created to protect and conserve Homebush Bay’s remaining wetlands, as well as provide recreational parkland for public enjoyment. The park is comprised of approximately 60 hectares of natural estuarine wetlands and 40 hectares of rehabilitated parkland giving a total area of 100 hectares.

Once the area occupied by the Park was a natural salt marsh and mangroves lined the
original channel of Powells Creek. Later parts of the site were used as the North Strathfield Municipal Tip. Establishing the tip began the use of parts of the site as a landfill. The State Rail Authority Wrecking Yards were also located within the parameters of the site.

EXCURSION FORMAT
There are 7 stages marked on you maps (see map link on main page). The first two will be conducted as a large group (as a form of orientation), while stages 3-7 can be done in individual lab groups.

Groups will be as allocated in your labs. Each group will be given two sample jars to collect water samples at two of the stages, which will be analysed in next weeks prac. Note that individual work is expected and identical work will not be accepted.

Next weeks prac will involve a detailed analysis of our findings/observations, so make sure that you record any observations that you see, in particular evidence of pollution, and attempts to manage it. Any sediment or litter traps should be marked on your map.

All sample jars MUST be marked clearly with your group number/name and handed in to me BEFORE you leave. These will be taken for analysis so we can use the data in next week’s practical lesson.

Stage 1 – Visitors Centre
Introduction

Stage 2 – Treillage
Orientation

Stage 3 – Mangrove Trail/Boardwalk
1. As you walk along the boardwalk, take note of any signs of pollution that you see and record them. Observe and record any attempts to control this pollution (eg: litter traps).
2. Note the mangrove species that are growing on either side of the boardwalk. What type of adaptations can you observe that help these plants survive in their environment? Provide sketches where needed.
3. Using one of the sample jars provide, take a water sample from the mangrove area. This will be tested later on and the results analysed in next week’s practical lesson. Ensure that no oxygen is bubbled through the sample, it is filled to the brim and the lid is screwed on under the water before removal. Label your sample with your group number.

Stage 4 - Salt marsh
1. Again, take note of any signs of pollution that you observe in this area, and record your observations
2. What introduced species is creating a particular problem here? Sketch an example for your notes
3. Using one of the sample jars given to you, take a water sample for further analysis in the lab. Measure and record the pH of the sample (see me for pH strips).

Stage 5 – Artificial lagoon
1. Note the extensive algal growth in this area. What species would you say this is, and how severe do you think the problem is in this area?
2. What types of factors do you think would contribute to the growth of the algal blooms?
3. Using one of the sample jars given to you, take a water sample for further analysis in the lab. Measure and record the pH of the sample. You may also take a sample of the algae growing in this area for further study if you wish.

Stage 6 – Bird Hide
1. While walking along to the bird hide you should by now have seen a few species of bird life in the area. Record any native and introduced species that you see.
2. You should also have observed a wide range of native and plant species along the way. What types have you observed, and what comments can you make about the biodiversity of the area?