As with much of the eastern United States, we have had an exceptionally rainy and cool spring. Frogs and salamanders have enjoyed the safety of the weather. Humans have had a different story, as we’ve been hearing about all along the mighty Mississippi. Here at home, our record rains presented challenges for the Adopt-A-Stream River RoundUp on April 30.

Volunteer “Pickers” finding critters

The Saturday RoundUp started off quite cool, overcast, and breezy – as many of our spring days have been. Our early groups braved the weather to find, in many locations, swollen creeks and rivers overflowing their banks. Volunteer stream Collectors augmented their collection techniques, in some cases standing in 3 feet of water ON the stream bank. Everyone found great appreciation in the afternoon’s warmer temperatures and tasty snacks back at HRWC (thanks to Big City Small World Bakery and People’s Food Coop for the donations).

Letts Creek full above its banks

Year in and year out hundreds of volunteers enjoy the river and creeks, while collecting data about the Huron River and its tributaries. “Every time I lift my net out of the water I get excited to see what interesting creatures I’ve collected. The River RoundUp is such a lot of fun!” ~Maryn Hasey. For more information about the RoundUp read Dick Chase’s account of this spring’s events.

Check back in a couple weeks for detailed reports on the RoundUp findings.