Closeup of a Mayfly, which is one of the numerous macros that certified stream monitors need to be able to successfully identify. Photo by Amy Ulland

Loudoun Wildlife Conservancy’s Stream Monitoring Program continues to welcome and support those interested in becoming certified stream monitors. This year’s certification process was a bit unusual, involving both online learning components from the Isaac Walton League of America (IWLA) and in-person field training time. We are fortunate to have three Virginia Save our Streams Regional Trainers on board our Stream Team, including Dave Manning, Jason Kahn and Phil Daley, who are qualified to oversee the field training time component of this process.

On May 2, Jason Kahn led a stream survey of the South Fork of the Catoctin Creek at Phillips Farm in Waterford. In addition to collecting important data about the health of the stream, this survey also provided the in-person field training time for two Loudoun Wildlife Stream Team members in the process of becoming certified – Jen Venable and Emily Maltman.

Jen and Emily previously watched the series of on-line educational training videos from IWLA and passed their macro identification exams. They are now prepared to take an exam testing their knowledge of proper stream monitoring protocols, and after passing this protocol exam they will be officially certified stream monitors! We are excited to have two more engaged and motivated monitors on our Stream Team and look forward to setting them up with their own stream sites in the near future!

If you are interested in becoming a certified stream monitor, please contact our Stream Team Coordinator Amy Ulland at aulland@loudounwidlife.org for more information.