Test your tap water for the Pack Science Challenge, March 17-21

Do some science and have some fun—it’s time to register for the spring 2025 Pack Science Challenge! Part of the Leadership in Public Science cluster's Citizen Science Campus program, the annual challenge engages students as collaborators in scientific research about their environment. 

This year’s challenge runs March 17-21 and supports the project STATE H2O: Student-led Testing & Assessment of Toxic Elements in tap water. By collecting and filtering water samples on campus, you’ll help us validate a new, low-cost method to detect lead and other toxic metals in tap water. As you test your tap water for harmful metals like lead, you also learn about the science behind safe drinking water and help the project team gather valuable data. 

Here’s what you do:

1. Register to participate. 
2. Between March 17-21, pick up a sample kit in the lobby of the Hill Library. Collect and filter water samples from taps around campus using the sampling kit.
3. Detailed instructions for collecting and returning your samples will be included in your kit.
4. Return the filters and water samples to the lobby of the Hill Library for analysis by March 24.
5. Receive a personalized report on your water's quality, with actionable recommendations if contaminants are found.

"Ensuring access to clean drinking water starts with knowing what’s in it,” says Dr. Erin Rivers, Assistant Professor and Water Quality Protection Specialist in the Department of Crop and Soil Sciences. “Traditional water quality testing methods can be expensive and difficult to access, leaving many communities without critical data on potential contaminants. By developing low-cost, accessible testing solutions, we can empower more people to monitor their water and take action when needed. Expanding water quality monitoring isn’t just about science—it’s about protecting public health and making safe water a reality for everyone."

Anyone in the NC State community can participate. No prior experience is needed. We encourage students to form small (2-5 person) teams to sample several taps throughout their selected building. The first 100 people to complete the challenge will also receive a Pack Science Challenge t-shirt.