Michigan lake and stream monitoring: how communities can get involved

September 8, 2026 · 5 min read

Michigan has thousands of inland lakes and a deep tradition of volunteer stewardship. Biodiversity monitoring is a natural next step for many lake and stream groups.

Existing volunteer traditions

Many Michigan lake associations already track water clarity, chlorophyll, and aquatic plants. Stream groups often run macroinvertebrate surveys in spring and fall.

Adding eDNA

Sampling at the same stations adds a fish, amphibian, mussel, and invasive species record without new equipment beyond a sampling kit.

Great Lakes invasive concerns

Starry stonewort, zebra mussels, and invasive carp are major concerns across the state. Regular sampling near launches is a strong defense.