River is Healthy According to Stream Critters

Clinton Township, NJ – On Saturday, November 11, 2006, the South Branch Watershed Association presented the results of the 2006 river monitoring season at Echo Hill Environmental Education Area.

This was the 13^th year of collecting biological data at 18 sites along the South Branch of the Raritan River and its tributaries.  Nicole Rahman, Program Director for the South Branch Watershed Association (SBWA) explained that every June trained volunteers collect a macroinvertebrate, or “bug” sample at their assigned sites along the river.  They follow specific protocols to maintain accuracy and precision in the data collection.  “This bug sample is analyzed at a certified lab.  The species of bugs present tells us whether the river is healthy or not.  Certain bugs can live in polluted water, but others cannot.  If you find a large number and variety types of bugs that need clean water to survive, you know you have a healthy river,” Rahman said.

Of the 18 sited monitored this year, 14 were non-impaired, 4 were moderately impaired, and none were severely impaired.  Rahman said, “This is similar to last year’s results of 15 non-impaired and 3 moderately impaired.  With 13 years of data collected so far, it will be interesting to see any trends in water quality that may be present.” 

The EPA has provided a $20,000 grant to prepare a comprehensive report analyzing and documenting trends in river health.  The report is due by the end of this year.

A presentation about “Hatches of the South Branch” was the highlight of the event, presented by Jim Holland, Co-owner of Shannon’s Fly & Tackle in Califon, and Michael McAuliffe, Guide for Shannon’s.  They shared many interesting facts about mayflies and stoneflies, fish’s preferences for certain species at certain times of the day and year, and the types of artificial flies to use for the best catch.  The event concluded with a fly tying demonstration by Charlie Bates, also a Guide for Shannon’s.

                  Bill Kibler, Executive Director of the SBWA, said, “Thanks to all of the volunteers, monitoring advisory committee members, spring workshop trainers, and sponsors. These dedicated people make the monitoring program possible.”

              For more information about the Association, or to become a volunteer monitor, please contact Nicole Rahman, Program Director, at 908-782-0422, or visit the Association’s website at www.sbwa.org.