Nice little article…
The Four Forest Restoration Initiative (4FRI), which includes our area, is another great example of how aquatic insects can be an effective monitoring and management tool. Insect populations are wiped out after a wildfire when tons of ash and silt enter previously clean streams. Fortunately, as streams recover over time, the aquatic insects return. The Forest Service plan includes attention to streams as they strategically manage areas with prescribed mechanical removal of trees and prescribed burns. By noting the distribution of the aquatic insects in a stream prior to restoration efforts, it is possible to assess the impact during and after the project. Ideally, the 4FRI effort will maintain or enhance all of the watersheds in the restoration area. The aquatic insects can help us know if all is going well!
Click here to read the full article “Insects are Cool!” by Jim Strogen for Payson Roundup.
