Citizens United To Protect The Maurice River - Dragonfly Sampling / 7-30 through 8-1-26

CU Maurice River is once again proud to participate in the Dragonfly Mercury Project—a nationwide study of mercury deposition coordinated by the University of Maine in partnership with the National Park Service and the U.S. Geological Survey (USGS). Taking place in national parks and natural areas across the continental United States, this effort has become the largest mercury contamination assessment in the country.
 
In the U.S., the primary human-caused sources of mercury emissions include coal burning and mining. Once released into the atmosphere, mercury can travel long distances on wind currents before being deposited into ecosystems through rainfall and other forms of precipitation. In aquatic environments, microorganisms can convert mercury into methylmercury, a potent neurotoxin that builds up in the food web. Because methylmercury poses serious risks to wildlife, ecosystems, and human health, monitoring efforts like this are essential.
 
Dragonfly larvae are excellent indicators of ecosystem health. They can spend up to six years living in aquatic habitats before maturing, and as top predators in the aquatic food chain, they reflect mercury levels within the ecosystem. They are also relatively easy to collect and analyze, making them ideal for long-term monitoring.
 
Once again in August, CU Maurice River will engage volunteer community scientists to collect dragonfly larvae within the Wild and Scenic Maurice River Watershed. Participants will meet at the CU Maurice River office for a brief project orientation before carpooling to sampling sites. Specific locations will be shared closer to the dates.

Quick-dry synthetic clothing and water shoes (not sandals) need to be worn; expect to get wet. Wading in the water up to your knees or higher is likely. Life jackets will be required at all times while in the water. However, there are also important jobs for a few community scientists who might feel more comfortable on land. Insect repellent and sunscreen are highly recommended for this outing as well as an ample amount of drinking water. CU Maurice River has a limited number of life jackets for participants to borrow so if you have your own, please bring it with you.