F.I.S.H. program encourages citizen scientists
The First Investigation of Stream Health (F.I.S.H.) program is a simple monitoring survey designed to track stream restoration projects. As citizen scientists, you can help researchers discover how the restored stream habitats are faring over time.The F.I.S.H. program allows landowners and community volunteers the oppurtunity to become citizen scientists by documenting and sharing yearly findings at stream restoration locations. F.I.S.H. participants are able to get involved using either a smartphone app, web based form, or printable log.
F.I.S.H. is a simple, family-friendly activity that asks easy to answer questions about a stream’s environment. The project is designed to be carried out at a riparian buffer planting, stream bank fencing installation, live staking, etc. Participants will make observations about various stream health indicators like water clarity, growth of vegetation, and signs of wildlife.
One of the fun parts of the project is the discovery of aquatic macroinvertebrates. These creatures are small animals without backbones living in the water. Aquatic macroinvertebrates consume things like algae and decaying plant matter. They are important food sources for fish and other stream dwelling critters. They are also indicators of good water quality. Some examples of aquatic macros include: caddisflies, mayflies, and stoneflies.
The F.I.S.H. program is developed by the Penn State Extension as part of the Conewago Creek Initiative . Penn State Extension asks for your help and volunteer data to demonstrate the importance of streamside restoration projects. Becoming involved with F.I.S.H. is a great way to support ecological recovery in your local watersheds.
If you are interested in participating in the FISH program, please go to: fish protocol Here you will find additional information and links to resources that can help you to identify your findings.
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