Macroinvertebrate Identification – A Hybrid Professional Workshop for Jurisdictional Determinations

Pocono Mountain Field Days:  July 22-23, 2025
Join us for an immersive hybrid professional workshop in macroinvertebrate identification, set in the stunning Pocono Mountains, PA. This course combines on-demand, self-paced online training with two full days of hands-on field and laboratory experience at the Pocono Environmental Education Center. Gain essential skills in macroinvertebrate taxonomy, field sampling, and lab identification, all crucial for Clean Water Act jurisdictional determinations. Learn from expert instructors while exploring the diverse aquatic ecosystems of the Poconos—an ideal setting for field-based learning. Whether you’re an environmental professional, consultant, or researcher, this workshop will enhance your expertise and elevate your environmental assessments. Register now for this unique learning experience in one of Pennsylvania’s most scenic regions!
Hybrid
In The Field
On-Demand
Online

$1,299.00

Course Includes
Hands-on Field Experience
Practical Lab Training
24 Professional Development Hours
Certificate of Training
Access to Class Resources

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Course Objectives

By the end of this hybrid workshop, participants will be able to:

  1. Understand the Role of Macroinvertebrates in Aquatic Ecosystems

    • Explain the ecological significance of macroinvertebrates as bioindicators of water quality.
    • Recognize how macroinvertebrate data informs Clean Water Act (CWA) jurisdictional determinations.

  2. Develop Proficiency in Macroinvertebrate Taxonomy

    • Identify key macroinvertebrate groups to the family level using taxonomic keys.
    • Differentiate between various morphological features critical for identification.

  3. Master Field Sampling Techniques

    • Select appropriate aquatic sites for macroinvertebrate sampling.
    • Properly use field equipment, including kick nets, D-nets, and Surber samplers.
    • Implement qualitative and quantitative sampling methods in different aquatic habitats.

  4. Apply Laboratory Identification Skills

    • Utilize dissecting microscopes and taxonomic guides for detailed specimen examination.
    • Identify collected macroinvertebrates in a controlled laboratory setting.
    • Accurately record and document findings using standardized data sheets.

  5. Analyze and Interpret Macroinvertebrate Data

    • Assess macroinvertebrate diversity and calculate biotic indices to evaluate water quality.
    • Interpret macroinvertebrate data in the context of regulatory compliance and environmental assessments.
    • Apply data analysis techniques to jurisdictional determinations under the Clean Water Act.

  6. Understand Regulatory Applications and Compliance

    • Examine the role of macroinvertebrates in Clean Water Act permitting decisions.
    • Discuss case studies related to NPDES permits and environmental monitoring.
    • Develop strategies for applying macroinvertebrate identification in state and federal regulatory frameworks.

  7. Enhance Professional Skills and Career Development

    • Gain practical experience to support jurisdictional determinations and environmental consulting work.
    • Network with industry professionals, regulators, and researchers.
    • Strengthen technical skills that enhance career opportunities in environmental science, wetland ecology, and water resource management.

Product Description

Macroinvertebrate Identification – A Hybrid Professional Workshop for Jurisdictional Determinations

Online, On-Demand Classroom + In-Person Field Experience | Pocono Mountains, PA

A Flexible, Hybrid Learning Experience

This hybrid workshop combines the convenience of on-demand, asynchronous online training with an immersive, hands-on field and laboratory experience. Designed for professionals conducting Clean Water Act jurisdictional determinations, this course provides a comprehensive foundation in macroinvertebrate taxonomy, field collection techniques, and laboratory identification—critical for accurate environmental assessments and regulatory compliance.

Course Structure

📍 Online Classroom (On-Demand, Asynchronous Training)

  • Learn at your own pace with expert-led video lectures, case studies, and interactive materials.
  • Master macroinvertebrate taxonomy and identification techniques before the fieldwork.
  • Prepare for field sessions with detailed guides, video demonstrations, and self-assessment quizzes.

📍 In-Person Field Workshop (Pocono Environmental Education Center)

  • Day 1 – Field Sampling & Identification: Conduct hands-on sampling at diverse aquatic sites using professional field equipment.
  • Day 2 – Advanced Field Collection & Laboratory Analysis:
    • Collect additional samples from various aquatic habitats.
    • Conduct field-based identification and classification.
    • Analyze macroinvertebrate specimens in the onsite laboratory using dissecting microscopes and identification keys.
    • Apply data analysis techniques to assess environmental conditions.

Why Choose This Workshop?

✅ Learn Anytime, Anywhere – The asynchronous online classroom allows you to complete coursework on your schedule.
✅ Two Full Days of Hands-On, Field-Based Learning – Gain extensive field and laboratory experience at the Pocono Environmental Education Center.  Lunch is included!
✅ Professional Skill Development – Enhance your expertise in environmental assessments, permitting, and compliance.
✅ Expert-Led Training – Learn from seasoned professionals with extensive experience in aquatic ecosystems and regulatory frameworks.
✅ Networking Opportunities – Connect with other environmental professionals and expand your expertise.

Workshop Overview

📖 Online Classroom (On-Demand, Self-Paced)

  • Introduction to macroinvertebrates and their role in aquatic ecosystems.
  • Taxonomic classification and identification techniques (phylum to family level).
  • Case studies on Clean Water Act permitting and regulatory compliance.

🌊 Day 1: Field Sampling & Identification (In-Person, Pocono Environmental Education Center | July 22, 2025)

  • Site Selection & Sampling Techniques: Hands-on training with kick nets, D-nets, and Surber samplers.
  • On-Site Identification of macroinvertebrates using field guides and keys.
  • Sample Preservation & Data Recording for regulatory assessments.

🔬 Day 2: Advanced Field Collection & Laboratory Identification (In-Person, Pocono Environmental Education Center | July 23, 2025)

  • Additional Field Collection: Sample new aquatic sites and refine collection techniques.
  • Field-Based Identification: Identify organisms on-site using professional identification keys.
  • Laboratory Analysis: Examine specimens under dissecting microscopes, classifying them to the family level.
  • Data Analysis & Interpretation: Learn how to assess water quality, calculate diversity indices, and apply findings to Clean Water Act determinations.
  • Case Study Discussions: Apply workshop skills to real-world regulatory scenarios.

Who Should Attend?

🔹 Environmental Scientists & Consultants
🔹 Wetland & Stream Ecologists
🔹 Regulatory & Compliance Professionals
🔹 Engineers & Water Resource Managers
🔹 Anyone involved in Clean Water Act permitting

Join us for this flexible hybrid learning experience that combines the best of self-paced online training with two full days of hands-on field and laboratory instruction. Master macroinvertebrate identification and advance your expertise in environmental assessments.

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