Bring out your inner scientist!

In July 2023, as part of Anstruther Improvements Association's work on the Dreel Burn, the AIA organised training for a group of volunteers to use the Riverfly Monitoring Initiative. Since January 2024, they have met once a month to monitor the number of invertebrates in the Dreel Burn. Invertebrate populations are a great way to monitor the health of a river, as they respond quickly to changes in water quality, making them 'the canaries of our rivers'. 

A second round of training in Riverfly monitoring was organised in 2024, increasing the number of volunteers who can take part in invertebrate monitoring on the Dreel Burn. Training consists of one theory session and one practical session. No previous experience is necessary, just a willingness to learn about nature and enthusiasm to get involved!

Further training is planned for spring 2025, so if you would like to find out more about the training and our community science groups, please get in touch here.