The Library’s Story Time went to the river to learn about water quality and macroinvertebrates (creek critters). The book “Creek Critters,” by Jennifer Keats Curtis with Stroud Water Research Center and illustrated by Phyllis Saroff was read by children’s librarian Sam Edmundson followed by Norma Bozenmayer and Jessica Hines demonstrating how to use a seining net to catch bottom dwelling aquatic animals. They also taught the future ecologists and river rangers about the organisms found.
The macroinvertebrates caught were then examined and identified by the children using identification charts.
It was determined the Mayo River is a healthy river with many healthy organisms like mayflies, toneflies, crane flies, hellgrammites, water pennies, crayfish and gilled snails. Participants discussed how to keep the river clean for all the wildlife.
River Ranger Buckets containing the materials to do your own investigation are available to borrow and use at the Mayo River. They can be found at the kiosk with the little library. The Patrick County Library now has one bucket to check out and use at local parks and Fairy Stone State Park has a bucket to lend to park attendees to use in the park.
For information on River Ranger programs contact the Patrick County Chamber of Commerce.
