Baseline Stream Monitoring Training: Racine

June 5

This WAV baseline stream monitoring training is hosted by River Bend Nature Center.

Time: 9:00am – 12:00pm

At this hands-on baseline stream monitoring training for new volunteers, you will learn how to measure five important elements of stream health using scientific tools and techniques:

• Water temperature – affects oxygen demand and can threaten creatures’ survival.
• Transparency – takes into account both color and suspended particles in the water.
• Dissolved oxygen – lack of it can cause aquatic animals to quickly leave the area or face death.
• Streamflow – the amount of flowing water in a stream impacts the habitat available for creatures living in and near the stream.
• Stream macroinvertebrates – insects, worms, crustaceans, clams, and other small, boneless creatures that are visible without the aid of a microscope are used to assess water quality based on their tolerance to conditions.

This 3.0 hour training will provide valuable field experience and give you confidence to use the tools and techniques you’ll be using to monitor your stream site once a month May – October. We provide all the equipment you will need. All are welcome, no matter your level of experience!

Training is free and open to the public.  Max 12 participants—Registration required. Email Christa Trushinsky at christa@riverbendnaturecenterracine.org to register.

Prior to the field training, all volunteers must complete the Online Introduction to WAV course. This course provides an overview of the WAV program and the science behind the baseline parameters in a learn-at-your-own-pace setting.  Being familiar with WAV and the monitoring science and methods will prepare all attendees for this field training.

We look forward to seeing you at the stream, rain or shine, and thank you for volunteering with WAV and River Bend Nature Center!