Spring Cedar River Stream Sampling 2026

Help monitor the water quality of the Cedar River watershed by collecting and identifying macroinvertebrates from the river!

Little Forks Conservancy began monitoring the water quality of the Cedar River in 2015 and with the help of volunteers we 've captured more than 10 years of water quality data in the watershed by sampling for macroinvertebrates. Macroinvertebrates are important bio-indicators for water quality as they differ in tolerances to pollution. By collecting samples, we can calculate a water quality score and rating ranging from "Excellent" to "Very Poor". Since the monitoring program began in 2015, we have documented positive water quality ratings in the Cedar River Watershed.

Event Agenda and Information:

We will meet at Gladwin Conservation District's Community Garden on Saturday, May 16th at 10 AM to review the protocol for the day and divide into teams. We will sample six sites along the Cedar River in both Gladwin and Clare counties to collect macroinvertebrates, insects and animals without a backbone that can be seen with the naked eye. After collection, we will reconvene at the community garden for lunch, provided by Little Forks Conservancy.

Following stream sampling on (5/18):

Using the specimens found in the river, we can determine the quality of the water. This is done on a separate identification night where volunteers can help identify the collected macroinvertebrates. This identification night, Macros and Flies, will take place on Monday, May 18th from 5:30-7:30 pm at the Grace A. Dow Memorial Library. If you would like to join us for this fun night that includes identifying macroinvertebrates and learning to tie your own flies, please sign-up here to reserve your spot: https://bit.ly/macrosflies26.

Learn more about our stream sampling program at https://www.littleforks.org/stream-sampling.html

(By signing up you agree to the attached waiver.)