Resource Quality -- Biological Stream Monitoring

Biological Stream Monitoring
Biological Stream Monitoring supplements water quality data by determining what aquatic invertebrates (small creatures without a backbone) are found in a stream. Since some invertebrates are sensitive to pollutants and others are tolerant, different types are assigned point values that correspond to their pollution tolerance. A sensitive invertebrate, such as a mayfly nymph, is worth three points. A moderately tolerant type, such as a crayfish, is worth two points. A tolerant type, such as a sowbug, is worth only one point. The total score of a given stream will indicate how good the water quality is. Streams that support populations of a variety of invertebrates from all three groups score highest and are therefore of the best quality. Biological stream monitoring is conducted by volunteers.

Those interested in assisting with stream monitoring can call (513) 521-PARK or e-mail bhenninger@greatparks.org.