The Spokane Riverkeeper has partnered with the University of Idaho Water Resources Research Institute to collect crayfish in the Spokane River to be tested for mercury levels. Mercury is pervasive in our environment and the Spokane River, along with other pollutants such as PCBs. This summer of 2022 was the second year of this study; these data will be contributed to studies throughout the Columbia Basin and used to assess crayfish and river health. Previous results show low levels of mercury in our local crayfish, although less is known about heavy metal and other toxics.
This research is made possible with the help of community scientists joining us in collecting the crayfish. Community science is one way you can participate in research that aims to protect the Spokane River that flows right through our city. Community science encourages people to study their environment without the need for an extensive background in science. Anyone can be a community scientist! Take a look at this summer’s community scientists out on the river collecting samples:
If you are interested in learning more about the details of this study check out last year’s results, you can watch this short video presentation given by Ph.D student and Crayfish-whisperer, Tate Libunao: