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Volunteer with Barry Conservation District at ⁠barrycd.org/give

Today, we are joined by LGROW's Matt Bain.

Matt is an Aquatic Specialist at the Grand Valley Metropolitan Council (GVMC), stationed in Grand Rapids, Michigan. With a deep-seated passion for aquatic ecosystems, Matthew has dedicated the past four years to studying and safeguarding the health of rivers and streams within the lower Grand River Organization of watersheds. He holds a Master of Science degree in Biology with a specialization in Aquatic Ecology from Grand Valley State University (GVSU), where his research focused on aquatic macroinvertebrate ecology and taxonomy.As an Aquatic Specialist, Matthew's primary role involves conducting macroinvertebrate sampling throughout the lower Grand River watershed. This sampling is critical for monitoring water quality, as different macroinvertebrate groups exhibit varying tolerances to pollution, providing valuable insights into the health of the river system. In addition to his fieldwork, Matthew is actively involved in education and community outreach efforts, collaborating on grant writing and sharing his expertise to raise awareness about the importance of preserving aquatic biodiversity.

Resources mentioned in this episode:

Lower Grand River Organization of Watersheds https://www.lgrow.org

Email Matt Bain at ⁠matt.bain@gvmc.org⁠

Michigan Clean Water Corps (MiCorps) https://micorps.net

If you’re passionate about protecting the environment and making a positive impact in your community, consider volunteering with your local Conservation District! By joining forces with your local conservation professionals, you'll support efforts in natural resource management that safeguard our communities. Whether it's tree wrapping, habitat restoration, water quality monitoring, or educational outreach, there are countless ways to contribute to the preservation of our natural areas. Join our dedicated team of volunteers today and be part of the solution for a greener, healthier future! To volunteer with Barry Conservation District, sign up at barrycd.org/give

More on Conservation Fridays at https://www.barrycd.org/conservation-fridays