Volunteers - McKenzie Watershed Council

Thank you for being a Salmon Watch Volunteer!

Volunteers are an integral part to the success of the Salmon Watch Program. Field trips would not happen without your support!

The 4 Education Stations

Macroinvertebrates

Macroinvertebrates are the insects that are found in and around water bodies. They depend on healthy aquatic ecosystems to survive. Because different species tolerate different levels of pollution, we can tell how healthy a stream is based on the macros that we find.

In this station, students will learn the importance of macros as a food source and an indicator of water quality, they will learn how to identify different species, and they will determine the health of the stream based on what they find.

Riparian

A riparian area is made up of the land and vegetation that surround and influence a body of water. Riparian areas support water quality, provide habitat and food sources for aquatic and terrestrial animals, limit water contamination, slow water velocity, and help collect large amounts of sediment and debris.

In this station, students will explore a riparian area and identify the different plant species it is made up of. They will learn how a healthy riparian area supports a healthy stream ecosystem.

Water Quality

Water Quality is the measure of the suitability of water for its intended uses (i.e. drinking, irrigation, protection of aquatic life and recreation). It is based on physical, chemical, and biological.

In this station, students will determine the water quality by measuring the temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen. Students will learn what these measurements tell us about the health of the stream and its ability to support aquatic life.

Salmon Biology

Salmon are an anadromous species, meaning they are born in freshwater, migrate out to the ocean to develop as adults, and return to freshwater to spawn/reproduce. Their life cycle has many stages, each relying on healthy habitat and water quality.

In this station students will observe salmon in the stream and learn about the different stages of their life cycle and what each stage needs to survive. They will learn about the five different species of salmon in the pacific northwest and how they all play a critical role in the health of watersheds.

Maps of Locations

September Field Trips:
Carmen Smith Spawning Channel

November Field Trips:
Whittaker Creek Campground
Upper Whittaker Creek Campground

Click an image to see larger view.