Do Aquatic Worms Equal a Healthy Reedy Creek?

Middle School science students assessed the health of Reedy Creek this past week by collecting and examining macroinvertebrates such as clams, larvae, and aquatic worms. Based on the types of macroinvertebrates collected at the site in Forest Hill Park, students determined which pollution tolerance categories ("sensitive," "somewhat sensitive," and "tolerant") were most frequently represented in the stream. Students collected multiple clams, aquatic worms, crayfish, crane fly larvae, midge larvae, and a few leeches! The young scientists determined that the Forest Hill section of Reedy Creek contains enough Group Two "Somewhat Sensitive" macroinvertebrates to be considered moderately healthy.
 
Much of Reedy Creek passes over roadways such as Midlothian Turnpike, and collects litter, debris, and vehicle pollutants as it enters the James River Park System. Reedy Creek spills directly into the James River, and ultimately into the Chesapeake Bay. While students had fun studying the creek's critters up close, it was certainly enlightening for them to understand more about what lives (and can't live) in our local watershed.