Join us for a two-day intensive weekend workshop to learn about water quality monitoring in New Jersey! After a brief introduction to stream and watershed ecology, participants will go streamside to learn techniques for visual habitat assessments and benthic macroinvertebrate sampling. Benthic macroinvertebrates, or small organisms like insect larvae, crustaceans, and mollusks that live in streams, are used as biological indicators of stream health.

This workshop, held at Middlesex High School, is a great introduction to visual and biological monitoring for someone interested in taking the next step and becoming a volunteer monitor! After the workshop, participants will be connected with a community-based monitoring program near them to start volunteering. 

Participants should dress for outdoor exploration, rain or shine. Bring your own lunch and a pair of knee boots or waders if you have them. Any children under the age of 18 must attend with a parent or guardian. No children under the age of 14 are permitted.

Event co-sponsored by New Jersey Department of Environmental Protection.