Dear Friend,

Were you one of those kids who loved to turn over rocks in rivers to find out what types of critters dwelled underneath? Or perhaps you are still one of those kids who loved looking at river critters? Well, have we got a fun opportunity for you!

On Sunday, May 19, 2024 at 1 pm we will host a Benthic Monitoring info session. We plan to meet behind the Churchville Fire House on Jennings Branch (a tributary of the Middle River) in Churchville.

FOMR’s Benthic Monitoring Program collects aquatic bugs (macroinvertebrates) from the Middle River and assesses river health by comparing bugs tolerant of pollution with those less tolerant. It’s fun and vital to FOMR’s stewardship of the Middle River.

Monitoring involves wading into the stream and using a seine net (takes 2 people) to collect aquatic bugs. The net with the bugs is then spread out on a table and the bugs are picked out of the net, identified and then placed back in the stream. You will have an opportunity to do it all. It’s a great way for critter catchers of all ages to find out what lives in our river!

If you'd like to join us on May 19th, please sign up at the form located at this link: https://forms.gle/CJEACbNF7w6SwcsT7

Thanks & we hope to see you at Jennings Branch on the 19th!