Archive for May, 2010

North Fayette Middle School Students Demonstrating How Stream Health Depends On Species Relationships

On Friday May 21st, Upper Iowa University joined the North Fayette Middle School to talk about Stream Ecology.  Middle school students surveyed Glover’s Creek in Echo Valley State Park for aquatic macro-invertebrates to assess stream health.  They were guided by Upper Iowa Conservation Management student Derek Steele and Upper Iowa University alumnus Rebbecca Daugherty.  This unique program was organized by North Fayette middle school teacher Sean Singewald.

A Diversity of Aquatic Macro-Invertebrates

North Fayette middle school students found the following aquatic macro-invertebrates:   mayfly larvae, caddisfly larvae, freshwater shrimp, leeches, cranefly larvae, midges, and riffle beetles.  Based on these findings the students determined Glover’s Creek to be in relatively good health.

UIU Wildlife Students Derek Steele (left) and Matt Johnston (right) presented the results of their research projects. 

You can download a PDF copy of their presentations using the links below:

Identifying Nest Predators – Matt Johnston

UIU Wildlife Management Projects – Derek Steele

Research efforts will continue through the summer so continue to visit our blog for updates.