Wade into your watershed: Monitor stream health in the Rice Creek Watershed District

Apply in June!
Rice Creek Watershed District
SHEP team in waders at a creek

If you're looking for a rare, in-depth experience contributing to the health of your watershed without having to earn your master's degree, this is the perfect opportunity.

Since 2006, FMR has coordinated the Stream Health Evaluation Program (SHEP), in the Rice Creek Watershed District. Scientists train SHEP volunteers to evaluate stream biological health by sampling benthic macroinvertebrates, small stream-dwelling bugs, then studying these samples to assess stream quality. Volunteers contribute roughly 40 hours between August and December.

Preference is given to Rice Creek Watershed District residents. (Check here to see if you live in the watershed.) No experience is necessary, as training will be provided. All are welcome.

See our volunteer page for more information.

Thank you to our partners and funders: 

Thank you to our partners: 3M Foundation, BNSF Foundation, Bolton & Menk, Rice Creek Watershed District and Xcel Energy.

Upcoming Events

Wednesday, May 20, 2026 - 6:00pm to 8:00pm
Nicollet Island, Minneapolis
Thursday, May 21, 2026 - 6:00pm to 8:00pm
Pine Bend Bluffs Scientific and Natural Area, Inver Grove Heights
Saturday, May 23, 2026 - 10:00am to 12:00pm
Mississippi River Gorge 'beach,' Minneapolis

Join us for Music for the Mississippi River 

Celebrate the Mississippi River and support FMR with Tina Schlieske and Molly Maher, May 30 at Dual Citizen Brewing in St. Paul.