Last updated: September 12, 2024
Article
Aquatic Invertebrate Monitoring at Homestead National Historical Park
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Long term monitoring: Using indices to determine conditions
Scientists use established methods to monitor aquatic invertebrates and water quality. Monitoring invertebrates tells us how streams change over time. We find out what species are there and their tolerance level to pollution and disturbances. This helps us estimate water quality conditions in the creek. Some impacts are often not detected using traditional water quality methods.
Scientists use established methods to monitor aquatic invertebrates and water quality. Monitoring invertebrates tells us how streams change over time. We find out what species are there and their tolerance level to pollution and disturbances. This helps us estimate water quality conditions in the creek. Some impacts are often not detected using traditional water quality methods.
Status and trends:
Since 1989, there has been no change in stream integrity. Yet there is great variability between years. Scientists found that the number of species in Cub Creek has increased since 2006. But, species diversity is low compared to some streams in Nebraska and many tolerant species live there. This shows that Cub Creek is mildly impaired.
Since 1989, there has been no change in stream integrity. Yet there is great variability between years. Scientists found that the number of species in Cub Creek has increased since 2006. But, species diversity is low compared to some streams in Nebraska and many tolerant species live there. This shows that Cub Creek is mildly impaired.

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Learn more about the Heartland Inventory & Monitoring Network.
Data in this report were collected and analyzed using methods based on established, peer-reviewed protocols and were analyzed and interpreted within the guidelines of the protocols.
Learn more about the Heartland Inventory & Monitoring Network.
Data in this report were collected and analyzed using methods based on established, peer-reviewed protocols and were analyzed and interpreted within the guidelines of the protocols.