Join us for our Spring Macroinvertebrate Sampling Workshop! The Stream Monitoring Information Exchange (SMIE) has been monitoring local streams for the past 20 years and now we can't wait to document conditions after Hurricane Helene. This regional effort trains adults (17+) in biological water quality monitoring methods for use at sites in Haywood, Madison, Buncombe, Yancey, & Mitchell Counties.

Topics include: basic stream ecology, how to report water quality problems, identifying aquatic insects & stream sampling skills. No experience necessary.

Volunteer Expectations: If we can convince you that bugs are amazing and that community science is fun, we ask your help to sample a minimum of 2 sites in small volunteer groups each spring & fall (about 2 hours per site). 

All supplies will be provided by EQI, including waders. This is a free event, however EQI appreciates donations to help ensure the SMIE program can continue for years to come! 

This workshop will consist of a morning lab session at UNCA followed by a stream-side field session at a stream within a 30 minutes drive.

Time & Date: Sunday, April 6th, 2025 from 9 am to 4 pm

Any questions or concerns? Contact us at staff@eqilab.org. We will be emailing all participants with more specific information about where to meet, driving instructions, what to bring, etc. prior to the event.