Prior to the collection, the teacher will have discussed and demonstrated the traveling kick net approach to macroinvertebrate collection. Three of the collecting sights will be located in the control area and three of the collecting sights will be located within the downstream area. Using one of the topographic maps, locate sites to study. Keep in mind the ease or difficulty of getting access to the stream. Site must be approved by teacher.
Students mark site locations on the map displayed in the classroom.
Gather the data from the six collection sites using the aquatic sampling net, called a D-frame kick net. The technique requires locating a section of stream called a riffle section. This provides an optimum environment for macroinvertebretes. To collect the sample, hold the net so it is open to the upstream side and nearly in contact with the substrate. A partner stands upstream and agitates the substrate.