An update in the form of criticism! It seems that naive little Sophie was a little too cynical and idealistic in her initial planning. After a day touring with officials from la Recuperacion Ambiental del Lago de Patzcuaro, visiting one of two municipal water treatment plants, and meeting with local artisans, my NEW observations are twofold: 1) Progress IS being made on the lake. Various government-funded and independent groups and organizations are doing the best they can to treat the lake water and improve the overall quality of the lake. However, there is often a disconnect between what needs to be done and the resources at hand. A complicated relationship between outside water supply and the quality of the water within Patzcuaro's own lake makes it difficult for the local administration to take any decisive action. 2) After further revision, I see my project as a simple investigation of what's going on, who's affected, and what the best and most realistic solutions for both assessing the water quality and improving it would be. There's a lot more to learn, and after one day of it, I'm pooped. At the same time, though, devoting time and energy just to understanding the problems the people as individuals face, then as a community, then as an ecosystem, then as a country... is a necessary process to implementing any kind of change. So. So far, things have been going well. Both informative, a little depressing, and inspiring. It seems like a few outlooks exist, as far as making a change: either teach the kids about sustainability, or try to teach the adults. The fact that many traditional families don't know another way to live, or don't pay attention to the dangerous implications of the lake's rapid shrinking, is a problem that organizations and educators are vying to attack. It's difficult, though, to know where to start. And again, they can only do their best. Further, the lake will eventually dry up, due to the nature of a closed lake that is constantly polluted and affected by urbanization and development. However, examining methods to extend its lifetime will not only help the community but prove that sustainable development is very much possible.

Hi Sophie,

I'm really looking forward to following this journey you are about to embark upon. It certainly is a daunting task--more so because, as you said, you're "one meager" high school student. But despite the enormity of your task or your younger age...you will make a difference! Just by posting this story you've informed me of this type of situation. I had no idea what eutrophication was before ten minutes ago...and never thought that an overabundance of nutrients could cause such destruction. 

Change often starts with one person and one thought. In this case, it's you.  But from there, it grows.  Use this site to your advantage! You'll be able to connect with people all over the world and some may be able to help you directly.  I hope you'll be able to blog about your research and experiences. And I'd love to see some pictures from the site if possible. If you need any help, let me know. As Editorial/Community Lead I can help you use the site tools and give you hints to tell your story. Just drop me a line eleanor at changents dot com

--Eleanor