Aquatic Insects in Lancaster County's Streams and Rivers

Join us for a deep dive into the world of aquatic insects!

Did you know that aquatic insects – or “macroinvertebrates” in the science world – are not only fascinating creatures, but they are also our best “indicator” of the health of Lancaster County’s streams and rivers? Join Dr. John Jackson of Stroud Water Research Center and Keith Williams of Lancaster Conservancy for a deep dive into the world of mayflies, stoneflies, caddisflies and the many other tiny creatures that call our streams home. This presentation, at the beautiful Columbia Crossing River Trails Center, will include macroinvertebrates’ natural history, their use as a tool to understand water quality and stream health, and their importance in gauging Lancaster County’s initiatives to restore our streams and rivers. We will also discuss the annual “snowstorm” of mayflies that emerges from the Susquehanna each spring.

What is Lancaster Water Week?

Now in its 6th year, Lancaster Water Week celebrates the 1,400 miles of streams and rivers in Lancaster County, PA. These cricks and creeks are the source of our drinking water, drive economic and agricultural growth, and allow us to escape into nature to fish, paddle, and swim. Many of these beautiful streams are polluted, but there is an incredible effort underway to bring them back to health in our lifetime.

Join us during Water Week for over 20 events as we paddle, stomp, explore, volunteer, and take action as a community to protect our streams and rivers for the future!

Learn more: www.lancasterwaterweek.org