Project Monitoring
~Macroinvertebrate Monitoring~

     Macroinvertebrate samples (aquatic insects) are collected from selected restoration sites to assess stream health. Volunteers are trained through the Skagit River Stewards program which utilizes the expertise of the U.S. Forest Service and North Cascades Institute to train volunteers to collect samples. Three samples are taken from 3 riffles in each of the monitored creeks. The sample area is 2 square feet. Samples are then sent to a lab for professional identification of the macroinvertebrates. At least 500 organisms are identified to the lowest taxonomic level possible (usually genus or species). Physical parameters are also taken in order to compare results with those of other like streams. Physical parameters include: substrate size, flow, cross sectional area, adjacent land use and riparian cover. Macroinvertebrate samples are taken in August and September.