Join our Water Quality Testing Team
Algalita’s community-powered water quality monitoring program is underway, and we’re We’re continuing to welcome new participants to our water quality community science team. As a Community Scientist, you’ll help us better understand how Alamitos Bay is changing by collecting consistent, place-based water quality data that informs research, education, and long-term bay stewardship.
To join the Clean Bay Collective water quality monitoring effort:
- Email emily@algalita.org to let us know you’re interested
- Tell us whether you’ve attended a past water quality training or are joining for the first time
- We’ll connect you with next steps, including test kit distribution, assigned sampling locations, and support for submitting your data
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a Community Scientist?
Community scientists help collect simple, consistent environmental data from Alamitos Bay. This includes basic water quality measurements, environmental context notes, and observations of the living world around us. The goal isn’t to become an expert overnight, but to notice, record, and share what you see so we can build a long-term, place-based understanding together.
Everything we collect contributes to a shared data set that helps track trends, identify patterns, and support stewardship of the bay over time. No science background is required — curiosity and care are the biggest prerequisites.
Do I need any background in science to get started?
Nope! We’ll teach you everything you need to know. Our training sessions are designed for beginners and will walk you through the sampling steps, the equipment, and how to submit data. See training dates here.
Is there a cost to participate?
No — participation is free. Funding for the Clean Bay Collective comes from local foundations, community partners, and Algalita supporters.
What kind of data will I collect?
Our monitoring focuses on a core set of water quality indicators that help us understand bay health, including:
- Temperature
- Salinity
- pH
- Dissolved oxygen
- Nitrates
- Turbidity or water clarity
We also pay close attention to tides, as tidal movement plays a major role in how water flows through the bay and affects results.
Where will I be taking samples?
Community scientists collect data within designated zones throughout Alamitos Bay, including channels, marinas, shoreline access points, and dock areas. We work with each participant to help choose a sampling location that is safe, accessible, and fits your comfort level. Together, we coordinate locations across the bay to ensure good coverage without duplication.
How often do I need to sample?
We recommend sampling once a week — it keeps our dataset strong and manageable.
Do I need to purchase my own sampling supplies?
No. You’ll receive everything you need for field sampling, including:
- A community science test kit
- Instructions and reference materials
- Assistance with data upload and interpretation
- Ongoing support from the Clean Bay Collective team and fellow participants
If you need replacement materials, a refresher, or help with troubleshooting, just reach out — we’re happy to help.
How do I get trained?
Sign up for an upcoming training date. Trainings are held in person around Alamitos Bay and walk you through the sampling process, how to use the kit, and how to submit data. Sessions are short, hands-on, and designed for beginners.
Is this safe for kids and families?
Yes! Families are welcome. Many sampling sites are perfect for youth participation, and it’s a great way for kids to learn about their local environment. Children should be accompanied by a parent or guardian.
How do I submit my data?
You’ll submit data through our simple online portal. We’ll walk you through the process during training.
What happens to the data after I submit it?
Your samples and observations are added to the Clean Bay Collective water quality data portal, where results can be viewed and tracked over time. Algalita’s team leads the organization and analysis of community-collected data, while the Moore Institute provides scientific guidance and helps interpret findings within the broader context of bay research. Together, we share trends and insights so the community can better understand what’s happening in Alamitos Bay.
Can I participate if I don’t live in Long Beach?
Absolutely. Anyone who loves and visits Alamitos Bay is welcome to join.
How is the data used?
Collected water quality data and wildlife observations help us:
- Track bay conditions over time
- Identify changes related to weather, tides, or human activity
- Inform educational programs and community understanding
- Build a place-based record that belongs to the people of Long Beach
To contribute wildlife observations, many participants use our iNaturalist project:
Clean Bay Collective – Alamitos Bay Wildlife
https://www.inaturalist.org/projects/clean-bay-collective-alamitos-bay-wildlife
You can join that project independently, or email us photos and we’ll upload them on your behalf with credit to you.
Will I receive updates about what we’re finding?
Yes — you’ll be part of our Clean Bay Collective mailing list, where we share results, stories, trends, opportunities, and ways to stay involved.
How do I get started?
To join the Clean Bay Collective community science efforts:
- Let us know you want to participate by emailing info@algalita.org
- Tell us whether you’ve attended a past water quality training or if you’re joining now
- We’ll connect you with the next steps, including test kit distribution, sampling sites, and data submission support