Workshop: Native Freshwater Mussels

Stretch your brain mussel and learn about the secretive world of these misunderstood mollusks.

Join us for a hands-on Freshwater Mussel Identification Expedition exploring one of our most overlooked aquatic animals in Kosciusko County! Participants will start indoors for a brief presentation overviewing the ecology, importance, and identification of freshwater mussels led by Carter Schuch, a Grace College alum. After learning how to distinguish common native mussel types, participants will head to a nearby stream to practice their skills.

At the stream, participants will assist with a guided mussel survey using established U.S. Fish & Wildlife Service (USFWS) survey methods, searching for evidence of both live mussels and shells. Any findings will be measured and documented for reporting purposes in accordance with IDNR permit requirements.

As we will be working outdoors, participants are encouraged to wear clothes and closed-toe shoes that can get wet and to bring their own drinking water. A light snack will be provided, as well as extra bottles of water.

If you’ve ever been curious about what environmental field research looks like, this event is sure to give you a taste…although we won’t be eating any of the mussels we find!

This event is underwritten by City of Warsaw Stormwater Utility, DePuy Synthes, and Zimmer Biomet Foundation.