Local students evaluate Bow Creek Watershed by Crofton

CROFTON — High school students from Crofton participated in hands-on activities to evaluate the water quality of the Bow Creek May 8, thanks to the help of Curt Arens and Paul Arens.

Students evaluated several aspects of the West Bow Creek southwest of Crofton, looking at E. coli levels and indicator species of fish and invertebrates.

Students evaluated fish and habitat by catching and measuring fish with Cassidy Wessel, a Nebraska Game and Parks Commission biologist. Jason Thiele, another NGPC biologist, led another group in evaluating aquatic invertebrates. The third group simulated water quality sampling and analysis with Bow Creek Watershed Coordinator Becky Ravenkamp.

They collected water samples and learned how to process samples in a makeshift darkroom by the creek. They read E. coli cards from water samples taken the day prior, recorded the results and calculated the E. coli load.

Students drew stream health conclusions based on their observations and data collected. Indicator species of fish and invertebrates showed a variety of species at different life stages, leading the students to conclude that the stream supports diverse aquatic habitats but has room for improvement.

The E. coli readings for the stream were very high, more than 7,000 colony-forming units. Students learned that safe levels of E. coli in streams are below 126 CFUs. E. coli levels generally increase with sediment levels in the stream, and recent rain has caused high turbidity.

Bow Creek is an important waterway for residents and outdoor enthusiasts who visit the area.

This activity was geared to bring awareness to the water quality issues and health risks associated with high E. coli bacteria levels in Bow Creek so students could stay safe while enjoying Bow Creek for summer recreation.

If you have questions or would like more information on Bow Creek water quality information, contact Becky Ravenkamp, Bow Creek Watershed coordinator at the Lewis & Clark Natural Resources District, at 402-254-6758 or [email protected]. mailto:[email protected]