The bioassessment monitoring effort has two main field components. We collect benthic macroinvertebrates, which are bottom-dwelling animals visible to the naked eye that lack a backbone. These include creatures such as stoneflies, dragonflies, and aquatic snails. We also collect habitat measurements such as whether or not trees shade the creek to keep the water cool. This information gives us a good idea of the quality of the water and the habitat, not only for macroinvertebrates but also for the fish that feed on them.
This project has been funded wholly or in part by the United States Environmental Protection Agency under assistance agreement CE-98T25101 to the Bay Foundation of Morro Bay. The contents of this document do not necessarily reflect the views and policies of the Environmental Protection Agency, nor does the EPA endorse trade names or recommend the use of commercial products mentioned in this document.