It’s a little more sophisticated than sticking your finger in the wind…or the river in this case. Helping determine water quality in Hoosier lakes and streams takes some fancy equipment.

Again this year more Hoosiers will be a part of monitoring the health of their local river or stream. The DNR is again using federal funds to support the Hoosier Riverwatch program in Indiana to provide the necessary equipment.

Not-for-profit organizations, public agencies, environmental groups, and schools are among those eligible for equipment. Since 1996, approximately 520 volunteer groups have received equipment and have started monitoring local waterways.

The equipment packages include chemical testing kits, nets for collecting aquatic life, and manuals for monitoring water quality. Recipients are required to attend a free training workshop sponsored by DNR’s Riverwatch.

To request an equipment application, contact Marie Collins at the DNR Natural Resources Education Center at www.riverwatch.in.gov

The DNR’s Division of Fish and Wildlife sponsors the Hoosier Riverwatch program. It is a statewide education and community action program that focuses on local river and stream stewardship.

The equipment packages, funded by the federal Sport Fish Restoration program, will help many schools and other interested groups throughout the state establish river stewardship and watershed monitoring programs.

Applications must be sent to Hoosier Riverwatch by March 15, 2005.