Annual Macro-invertebrate Survey

Upcoming 2024 Survey

The Macro-Invertebrate Survey (aka Bug Study) dates for 2024 are TBD. To volunteer or for more information, please contact us.


2023 Results

The Macroinvertebrate Survey (aka Bug Study) for 2023 was completed in May.

We had a rainy fall after a very dry summer. Insect numbers varied somewhat but remain in the Very Good to Excellent range. These aquatic insects indicate this is healthy stream. THANKS ALL VOLUNTEERS! YOU ARE SUPER COLLECTORS!

Partners on the project:

  • Sites 1-3: Manistee Conservation Dist. – Tyler Dula – Conservation Tech., Renee Mallison, Exe. Dir., www.manisteecd2.org
  • Sites 4-6: Mason-Lake Conservation District – Symon Cronk, Biologist, Dani McGarry, Dir., www.masonlakeconservation.org


2022 Results

The Macroinvertebrate Survey (aka Bug Study) for 2022 was completed in both May and October.

Download the full report: 2022-2016 Macro-Survey LMWCC

* New calculation method applied going forward.
Stream Quality Score Rating using the MiCorps Volunteer Stream Monitor Program standards:
EXCELLENT= 0.0-3.50 VERY GOOD = 3.51-4.50 GOOD = 4.51-5.50 FAIR = 5.51-6.50 FAIR/POOR = 6.51-7.50 POOR 7.51-8.50 VERY POOR = 8.51-10.0

Partners on this year’s project:

  • Sites 1-3
    • Manistee Conservation Dist. – Chelsea Cooper, Cons. Tech., Alicia Symanski, WQ Intern, Renee Mallison, Dir., www.manisteecd2.org
  • Sites 4-6
    • Mason-Lake Conservation District – Abbey Hull, Cons. Intern, Dani McGarry, Dir., www.mason-lakeconservation.org
    • Mecosta & Osceola-Lake Conservation District – Asst. – Mark Sweppenheiser, Dist. Mgr, Alex Svoboda, MAEAP Tech., www.mecostacd.org
    • LMWCC – Joyce Durdel, WQ Coord., Armas Soorus, Pres., Wayne Anderson, Proj. Coord., Jim Squier, V. Pres., www.lmwcc.org

LMWCC – MCD/MLCD Interns. Tech 2021/2022

  • Abbey Hull
  • Alicia Symanski
  • Chelsea Cooper

Memories from past studies

Previous reports

VSMP Stream Report 2021 – Chelsea Cooper, Manistee Conservation District