The research is studying the long term decomposition of plant litter within wetland ecosystems, looking at key drivers for why some wetlands sequester carbon better than others. The approach uses a novel, scientific technique for measuring carbon decomposition at low cost with the use of tea bags!

Whilst the research project is probably quite complex, our role will be relatively simple. We will coordinate the incubation of tea bags in 2 wetlands over a period of 2 years, including installation of tea bags, retrieving and assessing the samples at 3 months, 6 months, 12 months and 2 years.

In December 2017, with the assistance of members of Goulburn Valley Environment Group and Shepparton Mooroopna Urban Landcare Group, RiverConnect began installation of tea bags at Gemmils Swamp Wetland in Mooroopna and Reedy Swamp Wetland in Shepparton.

We have opportunities for school groups to be involved in the project over the next 2 years, retrieving and cleaning tea bags in preparation for drying and weighing through the assistance of The Department of Economic Development, Jobs, Transport and Resources. Whether you would like an opportunity for your VCAL class to practice work related skills or working in teams, your class is learning about carbon sequestration and would benefit from some practical activities, or you just need an excuse to get your students outside getting their hands dirty, give us a call to chat about how you might like to be involved!

For more information on the Global project visit http://www.bluecarbonlab.org/teacomposition-h2o/