For those interested in learning hands-on ways to evaluate the health of local streams, Penn State Extension will offer a webinar and an in-person workshop in July to teach participants to assess habitats, collect data, and use new reporting tools.
The Community Science Tool to Track Stream Health webinar will occur from noon to 1:30 p.m. July 14.
The related workshop is slated for 5:30 p.m. to 7 p.m. on July 24, at LeTort Park, 260 E. Pomfret St., Carlisle.
The events are designed for individuals concerned about water resources, professionals working in the water field and volunteers interested in monitoring water quality.
This program can help participants determine if their stream is healthy and monitor changes over time. The First Investigation of Stream Health, or FISH, tool is a fun and easy way for individuals, families, volunteer groups, youth, and adults to explore a stream and share their findings with the scientific community, organizers noted.
Instructors will introduce the new and improved mobile app, online reporting too,l and paper data sheets.
The sessions will cover:
— How to use the First Investigation of Stream Health tool.
— Some of the habitat characteristics important for a healthy stream.
— How to enter data using various methods, including a new mobile app.
— Where to find additional survey resources.
The in-person, outdoor workshop will also feature instruction on how to collect stream health data and provide an opportunity for hands-on practice. Participants should wear sturdy boots for the outdoor workshop and bring their own water, insect repellent and sun protection. The event will be held rain or shine.
Penn State Extension offers this program at no charge. For more information and to register, visit the Penn State Extension website at https://extension.psu.edu/stream-health-tool.
Source: Penn State Ag Sciences