Bug Squad near Galen Damon Pond

The FHBWI "Bug Squad" has been systematically completing a Pilot Macro invertebrate survey based on a section of First Herring Brook near Galen Damon Pond. Specimens were collected in eartly September.

The specimens were collected using techniques learned during an EPA training program. Fred SaintOurs, who has conducted extensive surveys in the First Herring Brook watershed directed the group. Fred is currently developing an Electronic Field Guide for the University of Massachusetts which will greatly assist with the identification of macro invertebrates and details about stream environments.

The Bug Squad reconvened in October to remove specimens from the material collected in September. The Mt. Hope Improvement Society Building in the West End of Scituate, a quaint New England grange hall, was converted into a make shift laboratory.

The group met again in November to sort and identify specimens. Fred SaintOurs will further refine the identification and number of macro invertebrates. This data will be analyzed to determine water quality and other environmental factors that will be added to a master data base for the First Herring Brook Watershed.

See more Bug Squad photos.