TRAM -- Truckee River Aquatic Monitors

TRAM is a volunteer-based water quality monitoring program that offers the Truckee community reliable scientific data on local streams. We collect, identify, and analyze benthic macro-invertebrates - also known as bugs! The number of bugs and variety of species indicate the health of a given stream. We follow the protocol defined by the California Stream Bioassessment Procedures (CSBP).

We have a dedicated crew of experienced volunteers and we gladly welcome new volunteers.

TRAM has several field sampling events each summer and twice monthly lab sessions each winter. The summer sampling events usually begin around noon and last between 3-5 hours. Come prepared to get in the creek and have some fun with bugs! During each session volunteers will learn field collection techniques for aquatic macro-invertebrates and habitat assessment skills. Experienced folks and newcomers are equally welcome.

The winter lab sessions are held weekday evenings at the Truckee River Watershed Council offices. The volunteers sort and identify the macro-invertebrates, and record the findings. Experienced folks and newcomers are equally welcome.

Event notices are posted in the Calendar section of the website.

If you are interested in attending a session, please contact Beth Christman, Program Manager at 530-550-8760 or email her at info@truckeewc.org for more detailed information on when and where to meet.