Watershed Education Network (WEN)
Administering Entity: Watershed Education Network
Entity Type(s): NGO, Watershed Groups
Water Resource: Rivers, Streams, Wells, Wetlands
Primary Data Type(s): Biology, Discharge, Geomorphology, Groundwater Level, Habitat-Instream, Habitat-Riparian, Instream Physical, Substrate, Water Chemistry
Primary Watershed Monitoring Objective(s): Baseline, Education and Outreach, Pollution Source Assessment, Restoration Project Effectiveness, Trends
Subbasins: Middle Clark Fork
Aquatic Invasive Species Type:
Counties: Missoula
Volunteers: yes
Contact Name: Deb Fassnacht
Summary of Monitoring Objectives:
WEN's Citizen Science Stream Team offers opportunities for Missoula community members to get knee deep in our rivers and creeks while learning about the importance of healthy watersheds through water monitoring. The Citizen Science Stream Team is split into two teams, which encourages everyone to learn something new and help collect meaningful data. Level 1 Stream Team is entry level, with more of an educational approach while still collecting important information on local creeks and rivers. Specialized Stream Team partners with other agencies and watershed groups on specific projects which require more rigorous data collection methods. The WEN stream monitoring program focuses on stream and riparian habitat through water chemistry, biological surveys and measuring physical properties. We engage a diversity of people, from local high school kids on mountain bikes, to retired folks who want to learn more about their backyard creek. WEN also has programs monitoring groundwater elevations in a local system of 15 wells.
