Volunteer Stream Monitoring Program

Do streams potentially impact the water quality of the lakes that they flow into? Should they be monitored? We at the Watershed Council think so and have thus, embarked upon a new voyage up into the streams that feed into our pristine lakes, with volunteer crews willing and ready to monitor in unfamiliar, yet ecologically critical waters. Volunteer teams monitor the water quality of wadeable streams two times a year, during the spring (May) and fall (September). Teams consist of 3 or more volunteers, including a team leader, team collector and at least one picker. Prior to the outdoor field data collection volunteers receive specialized training. Following the field activities, volunteers and experts gather for an indoor identification session.