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A Save Our Streams volunteer will lead registered participants through the field training to become a certified SOS water quality monitor.
Become an official certified Save Our Streams water quality monitor to see how healthy your local streams are. Save Our Streams (SOS) is a fun way to test water quality by collecting and identifying underwater insects, called macroinvertebrates. The Izaak Walton League provides training and support for those who wish to become a certified SOS Monitor. Field trainings are an important step in the SOS certification process, where we practice collecting and identifying macroinvertebrates.
What to bring: Dress for the weather and wear close-toed shoes that can get wet! (Rain boots, waders, or even old tennis shoes). The training will occur in rain or shine. Please plan to bring water, sunscreen, and anything else you need to feel comfortable for this outdoor training.
Where to go: Registered participants will meet library staff and the SOS volunteer at McLoud Run Park off of Interstate 380 in Cedar Rapids for this hands-on training. Parking is available along J Ave. NE, near the intersection of J Ave. NE and 11th St. NE.
Info about online training: If you haven’t already, please begin the online training components ahead of this field training. This includes introductory webinars and a macroinvertebrate ID exam.
Please begin the online training as soon as possible, as it often takes volunteers a couple tries to pass the exam. Once you have passed the exam you will be sent your macro ID certificate and be ready to attend the field session where you will learn the collection protocol and practice identifying macroinvertebrates in person! You are not required to complete these components ahead of the field training, but taking a first pass before the training will help you get the most out of the field session.
If registration is full, folks on the waitlist will be forwarded future water quality training opportunities through SOS and the Izaak Walton League.
Questions about this event can be directed to Amy at gollya@crlibrary.org.
Attendees are encouraged to car pool if possible. Close parking can be found along J Ave NE. 
