Learn more about life in our streams! The Audubon Naturalist Society, which has sponsored a biological water quality monitoring program for 25 years, has a few spots left in its upcoming stream science classes. The classes are open to anyone 10 years and older who has an interest in learning about local streams or who is considering joining our program. To register, go to https://anshome.org/adults/.
Introduction to Stream Science*
Classroom Session
Healthy Stream Biology
Section D: Thursday, September 20 (7-9:30 pm)
Woodend Sanctuary, Chevy Chase, MD
In the classroom, we will explore how “benthic macroinvertebrates” — organisms that live in the bottom of our streams – help us assess a stream’s health. We will learn how to identify these organisms to the taxonomic level of order through a PowerPoint presentation and by examining preserved specimens in a hands-on session with microscopes.
Field Workshop*
Section C: Saturday, September 22 (9:30 am – 12 pm)
Ten Mile Creek, Boyds, MD
In the field workshop, we will visit a healthy stream to practice monitoring techniques and to collect and identify the benthic macroinvertebrates we find.
How to Read Your Stream
Thursday, September 27 (7-9:30 pm)
Woodend Sanctuary, Chevy Chase, MD
Learn about the influence of land uses on streams, stream character and dynamics, bank erosion, bar formation, substrate composition, different velocity-depth regimes, and the importance of riffles and riparian vegetation. We will practice assessing stream habitat by using photographs of streams and the forms that monitors fill out in the field.
Click here to register for these exciting classes!
* Interested in ANS’ stream monitoring program? The classes in the introductory series are recommended for all volunteer monitors and those interested in joining the program. To learn more about classes or becoming a monitor, contact Cathy Wiss at cathy.wiss@anshome.org.
