Benthic Macroinvertebrate Sampling Guide
Guide to sampling benthic macroinvertebrates, a way to judge stream health by what lives on the bottom. Work through the steps in order and keep notes on what you find along the way.
Download free PDF1 page, US Letter, prints clean in black and white
GuideSoil, Water & ConservationFree PDF
The steps on this page
- Choose a sampling site
- Gather nets and containers
- Record site and weather notes
- Collect samples the same way each time
- Sort samples in a tray
- Group organisms by type
- Use a local key to identify
- Record results details
- Return organisms to the stream
How to use this guide
Walk a new hand through the steps once, then let them use the page on their own. Add your own notes as you learn what works.
Where to check the details
This sheet is a general template, so confirm specifics with your own manuals, labels and local rules. For current official guidance, start with USDA NRCS and eXtension.
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