(VERNON, Connecticut) – The Vernon Conservation Commission is seeking volunteers this Saturday, October 22nd, for the annual survey of the Tankerhoosen River watershed.
Volunteers will search for insects, worms and other small animals that live in riffles, which are areas of fast moving water. The examination will focus on the Tankerhoosen and the brooks that feed it.
“Vernon’s natural resources are one of the many features that make our community a special place to live, work and play,” Vernon Mayor Dan Champagne said. “Another is our active community of volunteers who do so much. The annual riffle bioassessment combines those two strengths and in the process provides us with important information about the health of the Tankerhoosen.”
Volunteers are asked to gather at 9 a.m. at the Red Barn at Valley Falls Farm, opposite 345 Valley Falls Road, Vernon. They will be given an overview of the assessment process, followed by field training.
The group will then split into teams to investigate predetermined survey sites, said Tom Ouellette, a volunteer for the Vernon Conservation Commission and the coordinator of the annual Riffle Assessment by Volunteers program. The program should wrap up by 2 p.m.
“The variety and numbers of animals we find will give us helpful information about the relative health of the Tankerhoosen River system,” Ouellette said. “The state Department of Energy and Environmental protection will take the information we collect and compile it with other rivers to develop an overview of water quality statewide.”
The local assessment effort has gone on for 20 years and gives volunteers an opportunity to learn scientific principles and contribute to an effort that benefits all state residents.
Participants should wear knee high boots or hip boots and can also bring waterproof gloves. Also bring a drinking water bottle. Snacks will be provided.
No experience is necessary, but volunteers must be 18 or older. To preregister or obtain more information, please call Ouellette at 860-965-6180. The rain date is Sunday, October 23rd.