Events

Program overview (in case you want more details):

What: Most volunteer work is done huddled around tables with stream samples (water/debris/mud/dirt/bugs) in a tray in the center. The volunteers need to find any living/moving critters and grab them with tweezers or pipette then deposit into our specimen jar while keeping track of numbers – we have a limited amount of time to find a minimum number of specimens. The rest of volunteer efforts are as follows:

1. The manager of the event (typically me) picks up the needed equipment from the Watershed Center prior to the event. At the event, the manager fills out paperwork, takes photos, helps those with questions/concerns and makes sure protocols are being followed. The manager has to attend training every so often to be allowed to manage the project – typically once every two years. Once the specimens are collected and later ID’d and counted, paperwork is finalized then all gear and specimens are dropped off to the Watershed Center.
2. There are two stream sampling volunteers who wear waders and carry nets into the stream – they gather nets full of stuff from either half of the 200’-ish of stream that we sample, carefully following protocols then bring back to the team collecting the critters at the tables. They typically are in the streams for 20-30 minutes per section.

When: It happens twice a year – once in the spring, again in the fall, typically on a Saturday morning, sometimes on a Sunday morning. The event is typically wrapped up withing 2-3 hours – roughly 1-1.5 hours per section. Once the samples are taken, I take them back to my house to ID in a controlled environment, sort, make the final counts and finalize paperwork. This stage usually takes 1-2 hours.

Where: There are two sections of stream that we sample. Currently, one is at the old Price Point building section of Kid’s Creek near US31, the other is a new site to us adjacent to Munson’s Cancer Center. We’re outside the entire time, rain, or shine.

Why: This data is sent re-analyzed by Watershed Center trained professionals then sent in to Mi Corps of Engineers for the final review/approval and documentation. This data is very important in keeping track of the health of our watershed. It can detect issues and help to resolve them before they become bigger ecological issues. Plus, it’s fun to get outside and give kids (and often adults) a chance to learn more about nature.

When:  Saturday Oct 10th, 9:30-11:30am 

Where: Across from the Cowell Cancer Center at Beaumont and 6th Street (see map https://maps.app.goo.gl/RBa7hqZjLX8BYKrWA)

Twice a year Rotary volunteers collect data that helps track the health of our watershed.  This work can detect issues and help resolve them before they become bigger ecological issues. 

Kids and friends are welcome!  IMPORTANT: Space is limited so please RSVP or, for more information, contact Andrew Kohlmann: Andrew@image360tc.com