Aquatic insects and other river-dwelling macroinvertebrates are important indicators of river health because some of these organisms are sensitive to deteriorating water quality. The Ashuelot River Local Advisory Committee conducts chemical and bacteriological water quality monitoring in the Ashuelot River; to supplement these chemical and bacteriological data and to provide a deeper, long-term picture of the river’s health, AVEO volunteers monitor aquatic macroinvertebrate communities in the Ashuelot River and its tributaries.

Macroinvertebrates are sampled and preserved in late summer, then identified in the laboratory during informal “Bug Nights” in the colder months.

Bug Nights and Afternoons are free, fun, informal, and a great way to learn about aquatic macroinvertebrate identification!

For more information or to volunteer, contact AVEO at (603) 358-2065 or brett@aveo.org.