This activity is one of a series of 17 teacher-developed instructional activities for geography at the secondary-grade level described in SO 009 140. This activity investigates environmental quality employing the problem-solving technique. Using a map which shows the proposed route of the cross-Florida barge canal as a focal point, the teacher leads a classroom discussion on the government's reasons for constructing the canal and draws from the students' hypotheses and/or problems regarding environmental change, land use, and planning. The students then develop a model for testing their hypotheses. Students can compare their model with one provided in the materials, called Model for Solving Environmental Quality Problems. Using data from maps and charts, students discuss the general requirements for the canal and the cultural and physical changes which are likely to occur when the canal is built. A culminating evaluation activity involves students in a discussion of the use of models and maps in problem solving. (Author/DB)