Become a Mussel Monitor

Help protect our three rivers
Sign up to be a Mussel Monitor

Why do you monitor mussels?

Freshwater mussels are fascinating aquatic creatures that can tell us detailed information about the long-term health of waterways and aquatic ecosystems. Despite their importance, very little work has been done to monitor freshwater mussel populations in Wisconsin.

Twenty-eight of the 51mussels in the state are listed as threatened, endangered, special concern or species of greatest conservation need, or species with informational needs.

The goal of Milwaukee Riverkeeper’s Mussel Monitoring program is to identify mussel demographics within in the Milwaukee River Basin. This is part of a larger effort by the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (WDNR) Mussel Monitoring Program of Wisconsin which looks to gain a statewide perspective on mussel populations. Together, we can provide much needed up-to-date information about these ecologically important river species.

What do volunteer Mussel Monitors do?

Mussel monitors search for mussel species from June through September. Monitors follow a protocol to take pictures of any mussel species they find in the Milwaukee River Basin and send those pictures to Milwaukee Riverkeeper staff. Milwaukee Riverkeeper staff then works with WDNR to identify and track the species.

How do I become a Mussel Monitor?

We do not have any current openings. To hear about future mussel monitoring opportunities by filling out the form below. We’ll add you to our email list to receive more information about upcoming training sessions and other opportunities to get involved. If you have additional questions, please email our Water Quality Manager, Katie Rademacher or call (414) 287-0207

When do you monitor mussels?

Mussels are sensitive to cold temperatures so we monitor from June through September.

Join Milwaukee Riverkeeper and WDNR Mussel Biologists for a workshop and mussel survey on August 26th in the East and West Branch of the Milwaukee River.