From an ecoRI News article by Mike Freeman

“Among endless environmental concerns is the Mayfly family. While mostly known to poets and trout anglers, Mayflies are a diverse, enormous insect family critical to a range of ecosystems as both biomass and nutrient loads. In short, a lot of stuff eats them, and that they’re struggling anywhere is fretful news.

“What this means for southern New England is currently unknown. While not yet a pressing local worry, however, people are paying attention.

“Kassi Donnelly, the wild and scenic rivers coordinator for the Wood-Pawcatuck River Watershed Association, samples the Wood River throughout the warm months with kids from grade school to college-aged. Mayfly and Stonefly nymphs are among her favorites.’’

“‘They indicate high water quality,’ Donnelly said. She noted her educational sampling isn’t detailed enough to notice trends.’’

To read the full article, please hit this link.