Station 1: The Fishing Jetty
We arrived at the Fishing Jetty at Lower Seletar Reservoir to conduct checks on the water quality. The smell, colour, turbidity, temperature, amount of dissolved oxygen and the pH of the water were all tested, and concluded that the water at the reservoir was clean enough for the survival of marine life and the water was slightly greenish due to the algae. We have learnt the fact that the reservoir was clean enough and easier to be purified for human consumption. At least we know that the Lower Seletar Reservoir is clean!
Station 2: The Litter Trap
Our next station was the litter trap. The litter trap was literally a trap for litter that was disposed into the reservoir. The litter trap was a V-shaped device and it was really huge so as to trap more litter and was not required to clear it that often. Pleasing to see, what was trapped there were not bottles and drink cans, instead, they were leaves that fell from the trees above, and there was not much of them anyway. This shows the consideration of the people there!
Station 3: Rain Garden
As we approached the station, we could spot the gorgeous sight of the beautiful plants there and in front of the plants was our station master, all so ready to explain the procedures to water conservation at the Rain Garden. I never knew that plants could help conserve water by planting them on an uphill slope and installing some pipes bellow so as to collect the rainwater that flows down from the plants in to the pipe. The water in the pipe is then cleaned further before proceding into the reservoir. From this, we can see that the water in the reservoir is really clean!
Station 4: The Heritage Panals
The journey to the heritage panals were short, but filled with curiousity as we made our way to the heritage panals. History of Lower Seletar Reservoir was printed clearly on the glass panals and what we found out there was really enriching due to the rapid changes in the current society. Lower Seletar Reservoir used to be a place for the public, for many people to organise their recreational activities, however, now they have other places that are more convenient than the Lower Seletar Reservoir, hence it has became into a water catchment area only, despite its mesmerising scenery.
Station 5: The English Station
Over here, I was given the task of composing a letter to one of my friend about my virgin trip to the Lower Seletar Reservoir. You bet I had all praises and no complains! Well, it sure was an enriching and interesting trail to be experiencing.
After a trip to the Lower Seletar Reservoir, I have learnt countless amount of things, one of them is to conserve water. Conservation of water is a lacking factor in Singapore as many people have moved on to the usage of water for personal enjoyments, such as the building of swimming pools to swim in, personal ones and public ones. The severe abuse of the abundance of fresh water in Singapore has led to the increasing constructions of water catchment areas, examples are Bedok Reservoir and Lower Seletar Resevoir. The increased amounts of reservoirs has led to the wastage of land, and it would not have happened if we conserved water. Also, I have learnt that Lower Seletar Reservoir used to be a place where people gather together for industrial activities, where many people have fun together and enjoy themselves. I have learnt not to commit any act of polluting again, as we many dirty the reservoirs and they are where we obtain our clean water, hence we should all do our part by not polluting the reservoir. In conclusion, I have realised that water is an indespensible resource and it is very important to us, therefore we should not waste it and should conserve it instead.
Wednesday, 4 April 2012
Tuesday, 3 April 2012
Reflections- Hao Jun
The first station we went to was the rain garden station. The station master told us to observe the rain garden while explaining how this rain garden helps to filter the waste in the water. I was really surprised when I was told how much this small little rain garden can cut down the cost of purifying the water with chemicals.
The Rain Garden
canoes used today
Structure that represents a Fishing Net
The fourth station was the station where we did the water purity test and learn about the forming of algae. We were supposed to collect a bucket of water and the station master did the test with us.
The Fishing Jetty
Collecting water for the test
Chemicals used for the test
The rainy day view
Overall, I feel that this is a very meaningful trip. Although it was raining before the trip and drizzling during the trip, it made the place cooling and thus I could appreciate it better. The learning journey this time round was an "amazing race", where we went from station to station, one after another, where we tried our best at each station and earn stickers, which represents points. During this learning journey, I have learnt more about a reservoir and come to better appreciate it. I would bring my friends along with me the next time I go to reservoir and hope that they will see what I see and appreciate it too.
A Bird i saw
Of course, only having water catchment areas would not be enough. Singapore still has one more agreement with Malaysia, which expires in 2061, to buy water from Malaysia. Singapore also stared NEwater, where used water is recycled and can be used again. This way, it can help to solve the problem of water constraint, by having fresh water to meet the needs of people.
Lower Seletar Reservoir as a Recreational Area
Lower Seletar Reservoir is a place for many recreational activities! People can go jogging, fishing, sightseeing, canoeing and even play golf! It has a 1.3km jogging track, a fishing jetty, and a golf course.
The jogging track.
people fishing
The Scenery
Refelctions- Jia Ying
What is ABC Programme?
ABC Programme refers to Active, Beautiful, Clean Waters Programme, natural features designed, such as rain gardens and bioretention swales aim to keep our waters clean. They help detain and treat rainwater on site before allowing it to flow into reservoirs. They also transformed our global hydrohub into a City of Gardens and Water. The water benifits our ecological habitats, creating vibrant parks and green space, and bringing people a step closer to nature and outdoor learning of our waters and the diversity of life there.
Station 1:
At this station was a Heritage Desk's structure shaped like a fishing net to resemble the past activity at Lower Seletar Reservoir and preserve the heritage.
We wrote a brief description of the beauty of Lower Seletar on a postcard to be posted to a friend overseas. Also, we brainstormed synonyms of the words "Active", "Beautiful" and "Clean". Inspired by nature, we expanded our vocabulary and learnt new words such as pristine and tranquil. The activities were pretty enriching and one-of-a-kind. We had much fun scratching our heads and racking our brains, most importantly, improving our English. (:
Station 2:
As time rewond, we travelled in a time machine, back to the past, learning about the history of Lower Seletar Reservoir. We completed speech bubbles in the comic strip, learning that people used to trade for tobacco kerosene down the straits, in malay, Selita, Sletar or Salaeta (now Lower Seletar Reservoir). People cultivated rubber and pineapple then, as well.
Similarities - Water had been a source of supply for the people and is still the case. Greenery was maintained from the past.
Difference: 1)Physical Environment.
2)Activities
3)Transportation
Past:1)Rural settlement (Kampongs).
2)Fishing & plantation for sustainance.
3)Boats
Present:1)Urban settlement (High-Rise buildings, satellite dish for telecommunication and MRT, our own transport system.).
2)Educational tours, recreational (windsurfing, dragon boating, canoeing, sailing).
3)MRT, motor boats, bus.
Station 3:
Testing of water quality by observation and analysis, showed clean water! Algae in the water, but no litter on the surface and no odour! Hence, water is clean, unpolluted and safe to drink. From this station, I learnt that algae meant no harm to the water and diversity of life. They suspend in the water, forming a greenish-yellow colour, indicating an algal bloom, usually caused by high nutrients in the water, fertilisers or organic matter. So, algae is good! (: also, the water is less turbid, of 40 JTU. The water is between 27 - 28 Degree Celsius, like room temperature. Amount of dissolved oxygen in the water, about 4ppm, is enough for marine life to survive. At a pH of 7 - 8, Lower Seletar is a healthy reservoir! (: in conclusion, overall quality of water is clean. However, water cannot be drunk from the reservoir. There is still bacteria in it.
Station 4:
At the exit of the canal near the wooden bridge, facing the jetty, we learnt that activities such as life baits contaminate the water because they decompose. The water exits from Yishun and Ang Mo Kio housing estates and there is a litter trap in the mouth of the canal to reduce pollution in the reservoir. We learnt, too, that trapped pollutants such as plastic bags from people may lead turtles to mistaking them as jellyfish, causing death. Cans release chemicals into the water while bottles suffocate fishes.
Station 5:
Here, we came into contact with the rain garden also known as the bioretention basin where rainwater runoff that flows from the park is collected, detained and treated. It is then filtered and further treated before reusing in the water play area and wading stream. The rain garden not only enhances quality of rainwater runoff, but they also reduce flow velocities, encourage habitat creation, promote diversity, beautify surrounding landscape, and allowing water to be filtered and cleansed naturally without use of chemicals. Extimated 10 species of plants have been planted.
Last but not least, in my opinion, this learning journey at Lower Seletar was enriching and fun-filled. This once in a blue moon hands-on opportunity was an eye opening and I learnt too many things about our water, some points linking back to the chapters we study in our Geography textbook. It was different. It was unique. It was off-the-beaten-track. And I thoroughly enjoyed it! May we have more of such learning journeys in the future! (:
ABC Programme refers to Active, Beautiful, Clean Waters Programme, natural features designed, such as rain gardens and bioretention swales aim to keep our waters clean. They help detain and treat rainwater on site before allowing it to flow into reservoirs. They also transformed our global hydrohub into a City of Gardens and Water. The water benifits our ecological habitats, creating vibrant parks and green space, and bringing people a step closer to nature and outdoor learning of our waters and the diversity of life there.
Station 1:
At this station was a Heritage Desk's structure shaped like a fishing net to resemble the past activity at Lower Seletar Reservoir and preserve the heritage.
We wrote a brief description of the beauty of Lower Seletar on a postcard to be posted to a friend overseas. Also, we brainstormed synonyms of the words "Active", "Beautiful" and "Clean". Inspired by nature, we expanded our vocabulary and learnt new words such as pristine and tranquil. The activities were pretty enriching and one-of-a-kind. We had much fun scratching our heads and racking our brains, most importantly, improving our English. (:
Station 2:
As time rewond, we travelled in a time machine, back to the past, learning about the history of Lower Seletar Reservoir. We completed speech bubbles in the comic strip, learning that people used to trade for tobacco kerosene down the straits, in malay, Selita, Sletar or Salaeta (now Lower Seletar Reservoir). People cultivated rubber and pineapple then, as well.
Similarities - Water had been a source of supply for the people and is still the case. Greenery was maintained from the past.
Difference: 1)Physical Environment.
2)Activities
3)Transportation
Past:1)Rural settlement (Kampongs).
2)Fishing & plantation for sustainance.
3)Boats
Present:1)Urban settlement (High-Rise buildings, satellite dish for telecommunication and MRT, our own transport system.).
2)Educational tours, recreational (windsurfing, dragon boating, canoeing, sailing).
3)MRT, motor boats, bus.
Station 3:
Testing of water quality by observation and analysis, showed clean water! Algae in the water, but no litter on the surface and no odour! Hence, water is clean, unpolluted and safe to drink. From this station, I learnt that algae meant no harm to the water and diversity of life. They suspend in the water, forming a greenish-yellow colour, indicating an algal bloom, usually caused by high nutrients in the water, fertilisers or organic matter. So, algae is good! (: also, the water is less turbid, of 40 JTU. The water is between 27 - 28 Degree Celsius, like room temperature. Amount of dissolved oxygen in the water, about 4ppm, is enough for marine life to survive. At a pH of 7 - 8, Lower Seletar is a healthy reservoir! (: in conclusion, overall quality of water is clean. However, water cannot be drunk from the reservoir. There is still bacteria in it.
Station 4:
At the exit of the canal near the wooden bridge, facing the jetty, we learnt that activities such as life baits contaminate the water because they decompose. The water exits from Yishun and Ang Mo Kio housing estates and there is a litter trap in the mouth of the canal to reduce pollution in the reservoir. We learnt, too, that trapped pollutants such as plastic bags from people may lead turtles to mistaking them as jellyfish, causing death. Cans release chemicals into the water while bottles suffocate fishes.
Station 5:
Here, we came into contact with the rain garden also known as the bioretention basin where rainwater runoff that flows from the park is collected, detained and treated. It is then filtered and further treated before reusing in the water play area and wading stream. The rain garden not only enhances quality of rainwater runoff, but they also reduce flow velocities, encourage habitat creation, promote diversity, beautify surrounding landscape, and allowing water to be filtered and cleansed naturally without use of chemicals. Extimated 10 species of plants have been planted.
Last but not least, in my opinion, this learning journey at Lower Seletar was enriching and fun-filled. This once in a blue moon hands-on opportunity was an eye opening and I learnt too many things about our water, some points linking back to the chapters we study in our Geography textbook. It was different. It was unique. It was off-the-beaten-track. And I thoroughly enjoyed it! May we have more of such learning journeys in the future! (:
Reflections- Teresa
I felt that the learning journey was really useful 8D
1st station: we tested the water on whether it was suitable for consumption. our group scooped up a bucket of reservoir water and the station master showed us a pill used to test on oxygen and the pH of the water. It turned out to be pH 8 which was the average pH for the survival of fishes. we also smelled the water for any weird smells and looked at the water which was clear.
2nd station: we talked about the different recreational activities and talked about how they could affect the quality of the water by pollution. there was a litter trap at the exit of the canal near the wooden bridge. The litter trap retains litter from waterways and remove it before water enters the reservoir. It was amazing that such a small trap could trap so much litter. The litter was also placed specially at the mouth of the canal so that litter will not be widespread. Some of the pollutants consists of drink packets, sweet wrapper and plastic bottles.
3rd station: the rain garden. we walked around the rain garden trying to search for the drain that treats the water. we learnt that the
4th station: we went to the panel and learnt about the history of lower seletar reservoir and we listed the differences between the past and present. did you know that lower seletar reservoir was once called selta, sketar, salaeta which meant straits in malay. we also learnt about the purpose of lower seletar reservoir from the past till now.
5th station: we learn about the ABC water programme. The ABC programme aims to integrate Singapore's praks, reservoirs, waterways and the community.
Overall: This trip to lower seletar reservoir was really useful to me as i learnt how to appreciate our precious water and it is important for us to save water.
1st station: we tested the water on whether it was suitable for consumption. our group scooped up a bucket of reservoir water and the station master showed us a pill used to test on oxygen and the pH of the water. It turned out to be pH 8 which was the average pH for the survival of fishes. we also smelled the water for any weird smells and looked at the water which was clear.
2nd station: we talked about the different recreational activities and talked about how they could affect the quality of the water by pollution. there was a litter trap at the exit of the canal near the wooden bridge. The litter trap retains litter from waterways and remove it before water enters the reservoir. It was amazing that such a small trap could trap so much litter. The litter was also placed specially at the mouth of the canal so that litter will not be widespread. Some of the pollutants consists of drink packets, sweet wrapper and plastic bottles.
3rd station: the rain garden. we walked around the rain garden trying to search for the drain that treats the water. we learnt that the
4th station: we went to the panel and learnt about the history of lower seletar reservoir and we listed the differences between the past and present. did you know that lower seletar reservoir was once called selta, sketar, salaeta which meant straits in malay. we also learnt about the purpose of lower seletar reservoir from the past till now.
5th station: we learn about the ABC water programme. The ABC programme aims to integrate Singapore's praks, reservoirs, waterways and the community.
Overall: This trip to lower seletar reservoir was really useful to me as i learnt how to appreciate our precious water and it is important for us to save water.
Reflections - Elvina
I think that the lower seletar was fun. At the first station, we tested the water and know how acidic or alkalinity the water is. WE have tested that the water is suitable for fishes to survive and it is indeed drinkable. As the water is green, wh have deduced that the water is clean and from our observation, we have see that there is algae in the water. Next we went to the second statio which taught us what activity can be carried out in water and the activities that cause the reservoir to be polluted. It was amazing that that small machine can stop all the litter. It can prevent the rubish from going in any further to ensure that clean water is transferred to houshold and safe for cosumption. The water there was from rain, household and canal. It is placed at the mouth of the caal so that litter might not be widespread. We have also learnt the history of water ad the lower seletar reservoir. I like the third station most as the scenery is very eautiful. The plants cultivated made the scenery so beautiful. The raigarden can prevent these environmental issues as the plants take up excess nutrients from fertilisers and filters off the water before enterig the reservoir therefore preventig algae bloom.The fourth and fifth station, we learnt the history pf the lower seletar reservoir and what the reservoir was used for activities like fishing and trading in the past. WE also learnt the differences between th past and present. The Heritage deck structure remids e of the fishig et and it is built to resemle it so as to preserve our heritage. WE also learnt the synonyms of beautiful and clean and the activity carried out there.
In all, it was like a amazing race, competing with another to finish the race and get as many stickers as possible. Fortunately, we were the second team to arive:) It was a meanigful journey where we learnt the history of water . It was something that I did not experience before
In all, it was like a amazing race, competing with another to finish the race and get as many stickers as possible. Fortunately, we were the second team to arive:) It was a meanigful journey where we learnt the history of water . It was something that I did not experience before
Reflections- Ng Yong Kang
At the first station i went to, i learnt that the water there is not polluted and can be drunk. It has a pH of 9 which is neutral and can support marine life.
Two thirds of Singapore are water catchment areas. I learnt from station two that this water comes from housing estates and rainwater in drains. Water skiing, canoeing and fishing can affect the water quality of the reservoir as waste products will dirty the water and the bait used for fishing will pollute the water.There was also a little trap in the canal which is used to prevent litter from entering the reservoir to minimize the area of litter collected in the resevoir. Pollutants like plastic bottles, leaves, branches and plastic bags also pollute the water and can endanger the survival of marine life.
The third station I went to was the rain garden which helps to prevent algae bloom. It is also a habitat for insects and bird. The rain garden contains phosphorus and nitrates. Plants there take up nutrients from fertilisers and filters water before it enters the reservoir, thus preventing algae bloom.
At the fourth station, i also learnt about the history of Seletar reservoir. One of the earlier names of Seletar resevoir is Selita Reservoir which means Straits in Malay. The people there trade for tobacco and kerosene and grow crops like pineapple and rubber.
Lastly, I learnt about the similarities and differences of the past and present of seletar reservoir. The similarities are that is still used as a water catchment area and physical activities are still conducted here. The differences are the Seletar reservoir was small, held industrial activities and used to have transport like canoes. Now, it is big, there are water activities and use of boats.
In all , I ejoyed the trip to Seletar Reservoir and have learnt a lot about it. I will also tell others not to pollute the waters in Singapore.
Two thirds of Singapore are water catchment areas. I learnt from station two that this water comes from housing estates and rainwater in drains. Water skiing, canoeing and fishing can affect the water quality of the reservoir as waste products will dirty the water and the bait used for fishing will pollute the water.There was also a little trap in the canal which is used to prevent litter from entering the reservoir to minimize the area of litter collected in the resevoir. Pollutants like plastic bottles, leaves, branches and plastic bags also pollute the water and can endanger the survival of marine life.
The third station I went to was the rain garden which helps to prevent algae bloom. It is also a habitat for insects and bird. The rain garden contains phosphorus and nitrates. Plants there take up nutrients from fertilisers and filters water before it enters the reservoir, thus preventing algae bloom.
At the fourth station, i also learnt about the history of Seletar reservoir. One of the earlier names of Seletar resevoir is Selita Reservoir which means Straits in Malay. The people there trade for tobacco and kerosene and grow crops like pineapple and rubber.
Lastly, I learnt about the similarities and differences of the past and present of seletar reservoir. The similarities are that is still used as a water catchment area and physical activities are still conducted here. The differences are the Seletar reservoir was small, held industrial activities and used to have transport like canoes. Now, it is big, there are water activities and use of boats.
In all , I ejoyed the trip to Seletar Reservoir and have learnt a lot about it. I will also tell others not to pollute the waters in Singapore.
Reflections- Teo Xin Yi
At the Water Quality Testing station, I learnt that the water in our reservoirs are rather clean and would be suitable for consumption after further treatment. The waters in our reservoir are also conducive for fishes to live in it as the pH level is not too high.
At the litter trap station, I learnt about the litter trap positioned at the mouth of the reservoir. It will trap any litter before they even flow into the reservoir and dirty it.
At the ABC Waters Design Features station, I learnt about the Rain Garden and the Bioretention Swales which treat the rainwater and then it can be re-used again.
At the heritage panels, I got to learn about the history of Seletar Reservoir and the difference between the past and present Seletar. I learnt the difference of their size to their purpose.
At the English station, I learnt new words of describing the scenery of Lower Seletar Reservoir.
Through this trail, I have understood the more about the ABC programme, which stands for Active, Beautiful, Clean Waters Programme. After this learning trail, I have learnt about the concept and design features of the ABC programme. I realised that this programme will transform Singapore's drains, canals and reservoirs into beautiful and clean waters combined with green scenery bring people closer to nature. This plan has been carried out in many reservoirs throughout the island. Some design features that I saw at Lower Seletar Reservoir include The Rain Garden, which collects rainwater, and then filters it, so that the water can be reused in the water play area.
Singapore currently still has one water agreement with Malaysia to buy water from them. Also, Singapore has started NEWater to recycle used water. By doing these, it will increase our supply of water to meet with our water constraints.
I think that we can design posters to encourage the community to participate in the trail or visit the reservoir. We can also recommend our relatives and friends to take a stroll there to enjoy the scenery and at the same time, learn more about Lower Seletar and the ABC waters programme.
I think everyone is responsible for keeping Singapore clean and green, and they can do that by simply not littering. Everybody should play their part to keep the place clean so that we have a picturesque scenery to admire and not a smelly and unsightly environment. A simple act can go a long way.
At the litter trap station, I learnt about the litter trap positioned at the mouth of the reservoir. It will trap any litter before they even flow into the reservoir and dirty it.
At the ABC Waters Design Features station, I learnt about the Rain Garden and the Bioretention Swales which treat the rainwater and then it can be re-used again.
At the heritage panels, I got to learn about the history of Seletar Reservoir and the difference between the past and present Seletar. I learnt the difference of their size to their purpose.
At the English station, I learnt new words of describing the scenery of Lower Seletar Reservoir.
Through this trail, I have understood the more about the ABC programme, which stands for Active, Beautiful, Clean Waters Programme. After this learning trail, I have learnt about the concept and design features of the ABC programme. I realised that this programme will transform Singapore's drains, canals and reservoirs into beautiful and clean waters combined with green scenery bring people closer to nature. This plan has been carried out in many reservoirs throughout the island. Some design features that I saw at Lower Seletar Reservoir include The Rain Garden, which collects rainwater, and then filters it, so that the water can be reused in the water play area.
Singapore currently still has one water agreement with Malaysia to buy water from them. Also, Singapore has started NEWater to recycle used water. By doing these, it will increase our supply of water to meet with our water constraints.
I think that we can design posters to encourage the community to participate in the trail or visit the reservoir. We can also recommend our relatives and friends to take a stroll there to enjoy the scenery and at the same time, learn more about Lower Seletar and the ABC waters programme.
I think everyone is responsible for keeping Singapore clean and green, and they can do that by simply not littering. Everybody should play their part to keep the place clean so that we have a picturesque scenery to admire and not a smelly and unsightly environment. A simple act can go a long way.
Reflections-Tan Xuan Wei
I feel that the trail to Lower Seletar Resevoir is a rare opportunity for me to learn more about Singapore's water catchment areas and its functions. I also think that the trail is a chance for me to learn more about water resources and the process of treatment of water through hands-on activities. I have learnt more about Singapore's heritage and the history of the reservoir, through this trail.
This trip to Lower Seletar Reservoir had also led me to understand how important water, which is taken for granted by the majority of the people, is to us.
Station 1: The Fishing Jetty
The water quality test that we did there taught us a lot more about the condition of reservoir water in Singapore, and what kind of marine life it could support.
Station 2: Litter Trap
I learnt more about the functions of the litter trap, and how solid waste was removed before the water from various sources such as rivers, canals and drains in Singapore entered the reservoir. I also understood why the litter trap was positioned before the mouth of the reservoir and why was it is important to prevent solid waste from entering the reservoir.
Station 3: Rain Garden
At this station, I learnt about the function of the rain garden, which played an important role in filtering the water and prevention of algae growth. I have learnt that the rain garden filters the water before it is allowed to go into the river, thus reducing the cost of treating the water, and the plants in the rain garden helps absorb excess chemicals, which discourages algae growth in the reservoir.
I feel that the rain garden is a very useful place that both beautifies and contributes to the environment in Lower Seletar Reservoir.
Station 4: Heritage Panel
I've learnt more about the history of Singapore, and its reservoirs. I have also learnt more about how Lower Seletar Reservoir changed from being an industrial area to a recreational area today, with many water activities that can be conducted on the reservoir.
Station 5: Heritage Deck
I feel that the heritage deck encourages Singaporeans to remember and preserve our heritage for the future generations to learn more about. At this station, I also learnt how to observe the environment and describe it in detail through writing a postcard.
Unfortunately, we did not get to spend much time at this station as it soon rained and we had to set off.
All in all, I feel that Lower Seletar Reservoir is the most recommended place to conduct a trail to learn more about water and its resources. It also taught me not to take water for granted, and some of the many ways we can contribute to water conservation by simple things we can do in daily life such as turning off taps when it is not in use.
This trip to Lower Seletar Reservoir had also led me to understand how important water, which is taken for granted by the majority of the people, is to us.
Station 1: The Fishing Jetty
The water quality test that we did there taught us a lot more about the condition of reservoir water in Singapore, and what kind of marine life it could support.
Station 2: Litter Trap
I learnt more about the functions of the litter trap, and how solid waste was removed before the water from various sources such as rivers, canals and drains in Singapore entered the reservoir. I also understood why the litter trap was positioned before the mouth of the reservoir and why was it is important to prevent solid waste from entering the reservoir.
Station 3: Rain Garden
At this station, I learnt about the function of the rain garden, which played an important role in filtering the water and prevention of algae growth. I have learnt that the rain garden filters the water before it is allowed to go into the river, thus reducing the cost of treating the water, and the plants in the rain garden helps absorb excess chemicals, which discourages algae growth in the reservoir.
I feel that the rain garden is a very useful place that both beautifies and contributes to the environment in Lower Seletar Reservoir.
Station 4: Heritage Panel
I've learnt more about the history of Singapore, and its reservoirs. I have also learnt more about how Lower Seletar Reservoir changed from being an industrial area to a recreational area today, with many water activities that can be conducted on the reservoir.
Station 5: Heritage Deck
I feel that the heritage deck encourages Singaporeans to remember and preserve our heritage for the future generations to learn more about. At this station, I also learnt how to observe the environment and describe it in detail through writing a postcard.
Unfortunately, we did not get to spend much time at this station as it soon rained and we had to set off.
All in all, I feel that Lower Seletar Reservoir is the most recommended place to conduct a trail to learn more about water and its resources. It also taught me not to take water for granted, and some of the many ways we can contribute to water conservation by simple things we can do in daily life such as turning off taps when it is not in use.
Monday, 2 April 2012
E-postcard
Dear Lennox,
I went to the Lower Seletar Reservoir today, and it had such a magnificent view that captivated me! It was rather breezy there, and the air there was fresh and clean, unlike those of the city. It felt so good to be away from the bustle of the city once in a while, and come to such a relaxing place with a picturesque view.
There was a fishing jetty, where people could fish, and a heritage deck and panel, which reminds Singaporeans of their heritage, and to preserve it. A small rain garden which was located near it, had taught me so much about how water was filter through this seemingly small, but yet had great usefulness, rain garden.
In fact, the view and the time I spent at Lower Seletar Reservoir had left such a lasting impression on me that I even wrote a short ode to it!
Here it is:
The gorgeous view at Lower Seletar takes my breath away
Ever since I first visited it
The picturesque view imprinted deep within
The very corners of my mind
The fun I had at Lower Selatar,
Letting me relax and let my mind go
Oh Lower Seletar!
The very thought of it made me long,
Long to revisit the place where I love
Lower Seletar!
I hope that the next time you visit Singapore, we will be able to go to Lower Seletar Reservoir together to enjoy the mesmerizing view together.
Yours Sincerely,
Ann
I went to the Lower Seletar Reservoir today, and it had such a magnificent view that captivated me! It was rather breezy there, and the air there was fresh and clean, unlike those of the city. It felt so good to be away from the bustle of the city once in a while, and come to such a relaxing place with a picturesque view.
There was a fishing jetty, where people could fish, and a heritage deck and panel, which reminds Singaporeans of their heritage, and to preserve it. A small rain garden which was located near it, had taught me so much about how water was filter through this seemingly small, but yet had great usefulness, rain garden.
In fact, the view and the time I spent at Lower Seletar Reservoir had left such a lasting impression on me that I even wrote a short ode to it!
Here it is:
The gorgeous view at Lower Seletar takes my breath away
Ever since I first visited it
The picturesque view imprinted deep within
The very corners of my mind
The fun I had at Lower Selatar,
Letting me relax and let my mind go
Oh Lower Seletar!
The very thought of it made me long,
Long to revisit the place where I love
Lower Seletar!
I hope that the next time you visit Singapore, we will be able to go to Lower Seletar Reservoir together to enjoy the mesmerizing view together.
Yours Sincerely,
Ann
Reflections- Li Yi Lin
Station 1 : At this station, we learnt about the history of Lower Seletar reservoir. Teachers and station master explained to us about the history of it. The word "seletar" is in Malay which means strait and the people trade for herbs on Seletar river. People living there usually grow gambier, pepper, pineapple and rubber along Seletar river. The Seletar reservoir was built to support Singapore's increasing population and industrialization. In 1986, a dam was constructed across the mouth of Seletar river to collect rainwater from upstream areas. In 2004, Lower Seletar Reservoir was opened for water activities. ABC programme was set up in 2006.
At this station, we also learnt about what did the people do in the past at Seletar river and I noticed that the activities in the past were really different from now.This station allowed me understand more about Lower Seletar Reservoir, by learning all the history and past activities carried out along or on seletar river.
Station 2 : At this station, we learnt about the ABC Water Programme. The ABC Programme aims to integrate Singapore's parks, reservoirs and waterways and the community. The programme helps to keep our water clean by using the natural systems such as rain gardens and bioretention swales, this features will treat rainwater on site before allowing it to flow naturally into the reservoirs. At this station, we also observed the beauty of Lower Seletar Reservoir. We tried to described the scene we saw there using a lot of descriptive language, it was very fun and we learn quite many new words there. It also provide us an opportunity to touch, feel and see the natural environment in the Lower Seletar Reservoir.
Station 3 : We were guided by the station master to observe the environment of the reservoir I noticed many small little beautiful things that I have not noticed before
Station 4 : Never go due to the heavy rain.
Station 5 : At this station, we learnt about the effect of rain garden. The rain garden, which is included in the ABC Programme, have played a very important role in the filtration of rainwater. The rain garden collects, detain and treats rainwater runoff that flows from the park. The plants grow in the rain garden absorb the chemical in the use water, which help to filtered the water before allows it go into the reservoir. We also saw many different kinds of insects and animals living there, such as butterflies, dragonflies and crickets.
I think the rain garden system is really useful as it naturally filter the used water or rain water, thus, it reduces the outfits of buying chemicals to filter the water and it is much more naturally than using chemicals.
Overall reflection : I think this trip to Lower Seletar Reservoir is really useful and fun. I learnt a lot of things there including how Singapore treats the water and make it more suitable for people. This trip also taught me that water is very precious so it is important for us to save water and do not just take it for granted. It also taught me some ways that we can do in daily life so we can conserve water. We also discovered a lot of interesting facts along the roads and saw a lot of plants, animals and insects that we do not often see in daily life.
Station 2 : At this station, we learnt about the ABC Water Programme. The ABC Programme aims to integrate Singapore's parks, reservoirs and waterways and the community. The programme helps to keep our water clean by using the natural systems such as rain gardens and bioretention swales, this features will treat rainwater on site before allowing it to flow naturally into the reservoirs. At this station, we also observed the beauty of Lower Seletar Reservoir. We tried to described the scene we saw there using a lot of descriptive language, it was very fun and we learn quite many new words there. It also provide us an opportunity to touch, feel and see the natural environment in the Lower Seletar Reservoir.
Station 3 : We were guided by the station master to observe the environment of the reservoir I noticed many small little beautiful things that I have not noticed before
Station 4 : Never go due to the heavy rain.
Station 5 : At this station, we learnt about the effect of rain garden. The rain garden, which is included in the ABC Programme, have played a very important role in the filtration of rainwater. The rain garden collects, detain and treats rainwater runoff that flows from the park. The plants grow in the rain garden absorb the chemical in the use water, which help to filtered the water before allows it go into the reservoir. We also saw many different kinds of insects and animals living there, such as butterflies, dragonflies and crickets.
I think the rain garden system is really useful as it naturally filter the used water or rain water, thus, it reduces the outfits of buying chemicals to filter the water and it is much more naturally than using chemicals.
Overall reflection : I think this trip to Lower Seletar Reservoir is really useful and fun. I learnt a lot of things there including how Singapore treats the water and make it more suitable for people. This trip also taught me that water is very precious so it is important for us to save water and do not just take it for granted. It also taught me some ways that we can do in daily life so we can conserve water. We also discovered a lot of interesting facts along the roads and saw a lot of plants, animals and insects that we do not often see in daily life.
Reflections- Sun Ming Yue
The first station we went is the rain garden. The station master thought us about how rain garden had help to filter waste water and the different types of insects and animals we can see there. I think it is really amazing that a small rain garden can actually help to filter water and cut down the cost of using chemicals to purify water.The second station we went was about the history of lower seletar.According to the station master, lower seletar reservoir used to be used for agriculture and primary activities like fishing. Although we still see people fishing in Lower Seletar reservoir today, but it serves as a kind of entertainment now as compared to in the past,people in the past fish for food.The third station we went was the station that thought us to observe the reservoir. Third station is my favourite station as the station master guide us to observe what we usually don't , it is a different view from what we thought of and through small details we can actually infer how much change had the reservoir gone through.It provides us an opportunity to feel the nature and enjoy a moment of peace.The fourth station is a station on water test and we learnt how had algae boom cause harm to the water. Although we did not get to go to the fifth station due to the heavy rain, but we had a special experience as the view was really good in a rainy day. I think that trip to lower seletar reservoir is really meaningful. It was my first time doing the water test and it is really an amazing experience. As it was raining when we went on the trail, we saw many things that we are unable to on normal days. Not only did the rain ruined the trail, but it made it more special and interesting.The scenery there is really special and was something I had never experience before. This trail really provide a opportunity for me to observe the nature. I discovered quite a lot of interesting facts while on the trail.This trail also taught me the importance of water and all the process that it must go through before served. We really have to treasure water and not just take it for granted.This trail is much related to our daily life and it teaches us what we can do to conserve water .After the rain, it is very clear that there were many algae in the reservoir. I think that we should increase the number of rain gardens to prevent the algae bloom. Before the rain, we could actually hear the sound made by quite a lot of insects living there which we do not get to see everyday. I really enjoyed the views there. This trail is not just a trail where you can have fun, but also learn and discover interesting facts about nature and how are all this related to water. It is a memorable trip which provides you a opportunity to know about the environment we are living in.
Wednesday, 28 March 2012
Overview of What We Did There
Long story cut short, we were supposed to go to different stations set up by our seniors and teachers. It was an "Amazing Race", where we have to run from station to station, one after another, and try our best at each station and receive points. Also, the first three teams to complete all the stations and return to the starting point would get bonus points!
Introduction- Overview
Lower Seletar Reservoir is located on the North-Eastern part of Singapore. It is one of the 17 reservoirs in Singapore. It's a water cathment area, which is one of our Four National Taps. The reservoir is 3.6 kilometres squared.
In 1924, to support the Growing population and industralisation, Lower Seletar Reservoir was built, following MacRitchie and Pierce Reservoirs.In 1969, as a result of expansion in 1940 and 1967 respectively, it became Singapore's largest reservoir at that time. It was also a popular leisure spot. In 1986, a dam was constructed across the mouth of Seletar River from the upstream areas to further ensure it could hold sufficient water. In 1992, Seletar Resevoir was renamed Upper Seletar Reservoir, while Sungei Seletar Reservoir was renamed Lower Seletar Reservoir.In 2004, reservoirs in Singapore were opened for water activities to let people recognise that water is a shared resource.In 2010, the makeover of Lower Seletar Reservoir under the ABC Waters Programme has been completed.
In 1924, to support the Growing population and industralisation, Lower Seletar Reservoir was built, following MacRitchie and Pierce Reservoirs.In 1969, as a result of expansion in 1940 and 1967 respectively, it became Singapore's largest reservoir at that time. It was also a popular leisure spot. In 1986, a dam was constructed across the mouth of Seletar River from the upstream areas to further ensure it could hold sufficient water. In 1992, Seletar Resevoir was renamed Upper Seletar Reservoir, while Sungei Seletar Reservoir was renamed Lower Seletar Reservoir.In 2004, reservoirs in Singapore were opened for water activities to let people recognise that water is a shared resource.In 2010, the makeover of Lower Seletar Reservoir under the ABC Waters Programme has been completed.
Tuesday, 27 March 2012
Group members
Teresa Yap
Teo Xin Yi
Elvina Chun
Seah Jia Ying
Li Yi Lin
Teo Xin Yi
Elvina Chun
Seah Jia Ying
Li Yi Lin
Sun Ming Yue
Tan Xuan Wei
Koh Meng Hang
Ng Yong Kang
Teo Hao Jun
Teo Hao Jun