Group Collects Samples To Check Darby Creek Water Quality

On Saturday May, 5, volunteers from Darby Creek Valley Association conducted the 15th annual Streamwatch collections in Darby Creek to compare samples collected in 2017 and determine water quality levels in the creek.

Streamwatch is DCVA’s program to monitor water quality levels in Darby Creek by tracking yearly changes in streamside and instream plant and animal life.

Alan Samel, Streamwatch Coordinator and DCVA first vice president, called 2018’s Streamwatch collection day a total success.

"We had a beautiful day for it. The bugs we collect from the stream tell us a lot about water quality," Samel said. "Mayflies and caddisflies, for example, are sensitive to environmental change and chemical pollution, so finding them in high numbers tells us the water quality is high. The highlight of the day was capturing (and releasing) a juvenile American eel at the Haverford Township sample site."

Samples were collected at five locations, starting in Darby Borough, moving up stream into Upper Darby Township, then Haverford Township, and Radnor Township, and the final upstream location in Easttown Township.

It is too early to tell if the stream water quality has changed since last year. Sample identification and counting will take place this fall at DCVA’s insect identification workshop, when members of the public are invited to join in and learn about the collection and lab techniques that make Streamwatch possible.

After the fall workshop, this year’s results can be compared to last year and the previous 14 years.

"More hands will enable us to do more of this important environmental monitoring work in Darby Creek’s watershed," Samel said. "For me, volunteering with a group like Darby Creek Valley Association has been a great way to give back to the community and work with interesting people and a worthy organization. It provides the experts living in the watershed with an opportunity to educate and share their knowledge with other watershed residents."

Anyone interested in learning more about DCVA's year-round programs and volunteer opportunities can visit the DCVA website here or call Director Sue Miller at (484) 222 2502.

Images via Darby Creek Valley Association