When – 23rd of July
Where - TBC
What- Learn how to sample Riverfly and why they are important in the river systems.
Riverfly are an important part of the river ecosystem providing food for all the larger organisms that live in and around the rivers. Despite the name, Riverfly encompass all small invertebrates that live on and in the sediment at the bottom of the river, from snails to mayflies to worms. This range of creatures, that live in varying habitats, make Riverfly an excellent way to measure the health of the rivers, with different groups responding differently to various forms of pollution and habitat change. This sensitivity to different factors means that Riverfly can be used to detect pollution events and show how a river is changing through time, without the need of catching the larger organisms such as fish and birds, or expensive laboratory testing.
For this event you will learn why Riverfly are important and how to sample and identify them and contribute data to a larger research project that is assessing the Riverfly of the different rivers monitored by the trust (More information will be provided).
Waterproofs are recommended, and wellies are a must. Please bring water and weather appropriate protection (hats, suncream, etc)
Equipment will be provided
No experience required
Email David@westcumbriariverstrust.org if interested or you have any questions.
