Do you live by a stream or river? Looking for a way to protect streams in the Rock River Basin? Become a volunteer stream monitor!
From May to October, our volunteer stream monitors collect data vital to understanding the health of our streams across the Rock River Basin. Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources and Dodge County Land and Water Conservation Department will use the data to better understand watershed protection and restoration needs.
What do volunteers monitor?
Volunteer stream monitors collect data on temperature, stream flow, dissolved oxygen, water clarity, and biological diversity of aquatic insects. Volunteers use state-wide Water Action Volunteers (WAV) program methods. Volunteers enter data in a state-wide database, providing invaluable information about the health of our streams.
Do I need experience to become a stream monitor?
No! You do not need prior experience to volunteer.
How much time is required?
After attending the initial six-hour workshop, volunteers visit their stream sites once a month, May through October. Site visits usually take about 1-3 hours.
Where are the monitoring sites?
Volunteers are assigned to a priority site. There are usually several to choose from. All streams are wadeable.
What equipment do I need?
No equipment is necessary. RRC provides all water monitoring equipment, except for hip boots or waders.
Where can I learn more?
- These videos provide a glimpse of what you will be monitoring as a volunteer stream steward:
- Water Action Volunteers website
- More info from RRC
- Still have questions? Email Addie Schlussel, Rock River Coalition Stream Monitoring and AIS Program Coordinator.
