Macroinvertebrate Survey

Volunteers Helped Measure the Health of Paunacussing Creek

April 2026

Volunteers of all ages joined the Paunacussing Watershed Association for a morning of citizen science, helping collect and identify aquatic life that provides valuable clues about the health of our local streams. We had a wonderful turnout for our second community macroinvertebrate creek survey.

Participants spent the morning exploring a wide variety of creek critters — from quick‑moving nymphs to tiny armored crawlers — each offering clues about the health of the Paunacussing Creek. It was a chance to slow down, look closely, and discover just how much life thrives beneath the surface.

Thank you to everyone who stepped into the water with us, asked great questions, and helped make this hands‑on learning experience such a meaningful community moment.

Status: 🟢 2026 Annual stream survey completed.

We always need volunteers to do annual monitoring of the macroinvertebrates in the creek. Keep an eye out for our next survey event.

Why This Matters

The variety of aquatic insects and other stream life tells us a great deal about the health of Paunacussing Creek. By identifying and recording these organisms each year, volunteers help us monitor water quality, track environmental changes, and build a long-term record of the watershed's health.

Each annual survey helps us:

• Monitor stream health

• Track water quality over time

• Measure aquatic biodiversity

• Guide future conservation efforts

A Morning of Citizen Science

Volunteers spent the morning wading into the creek, turning over rocks and sweeping small nets through the water to collect aquatic insects, crayfish, fish, and other freshwater organisms. After identifying their findings with guidance from scientists, participants learned how these species reveal the health of the stream.

The event offered families, students, and nature enthusiasts a hands-on opportunity to explore the creek while contributing to long-term monitoring of the Paunacussing Watershed.

Interested in joining next year's survey?

Our annual macroinvertebrate survey is open to volunteers of all experience levels. Watch our News & Events page for the next survey date and come help us monitor the health of Paunacussing Creek.

Highlights From The Day

• Volunteers collected a wide variety of aquatic insects and other freshwater organisms.

• Participants learned how scientists use macroinvertebrates to evaluate water quality.

• Families and volunteers of all ages contributed to the survey.

• The morning concluded with pizza and an opportunity to discuss the survey results.