Mercury is pervasive in our environment and in the Spokane River, along with other heavy metals and pollutants such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS). You can learn more about the history of toxic substances in the Spokane River here. We've teamed up with scientists from the University of Idaho Water Resources Research Institute to monitor crayfish for mercury. These data will be used for studies that assess crayfish and river health throughout the Columbia River Basin.
If you are interested in protecting the Spokane River through this research, join us at the river for a day of learning and crayfish catching activities:
Native Signal Crayfish collected at a 2022 event.
University presentation about local crayfish research.
Sampling techniques including hand, net, and trap fishing.
Crayfish habitat, species identification, sexing, and how to take scientific measurements.
Information about mercury and other pollutant dangers in the Spokane River.
These events are family friendly with activities for a range of skill and agility levels.
We will provide all sampling equipment. You may bring your own small net, bucket, and a mask and snorkel or swim goggles if you would like. Please label any personal equipment.
Wear shoes and clothing that can get wet. We will be wading in the river to collect our samples.
Bring personal safety equipment, e.g. PFDs, to your comfort level. Plan to monitor small children for hand-to-mouth behaviors that increase their risk of exposure to heavy metals. Small children should not ingest dirt or mud from the Spokane River.
Remember to pack sunscreen, water, and snacks. Hats and long sleeve shirts are recommended.
All crayfish that are collected will be terminated offsite after the event in order to be tested for mercury levels. Please consider your level of comfort with this method before signing up.