Tiny Critters, Big Clues

August 15, 2025| Education, Environment

By: Patrick Krudop

August is National Water Quality Month, a time to reflect on the health of our lakes, rivers, and streams, and the simple steps we can take to protect them. While water testing equipment can be high-tech, sometimes nature provides its own indicators of water quality… in the form of tiny critters living in the water. 

Standing in the Musconetcong River, just below the Lake Hopatcong dam, you might not notice them at first. Living on the river bottom are macroinvertebrates: small, spineless creatures you can see with the naked eye. These macros are more than just fascinating wildlife; they’re powerful indicators of how clean a waterway is.

Scientists group them into three groups based on their tolerance to pollution:

• Group One: Sensitive organisms, like caddisflies, which are typically only found in good-quality water
• Group Two: Somewhat sensitive organisms, like dragonfly nymphs, which are typically found in fair-quality or good-quality water
• Group Three: Tolerant organisms, like black fly larvae, which are typically present, regardless of water quality

When all three classes are found in a river, it’s a sign the ecosystem is healthy and diverse. That’s exactly what we see here in the Musconetcong, a living reminder that our water is supporting a vibrant web of life.

You can learn about more macroinvertebrates and thier tolerance to pollution HERE.

National Water Quality Month isn’t just about celebrating what’s healthy. It’s about ensuring it stays that way too. Every choice we make has an impact on the water that sustains us, our communities, and every fish, plant, and yes… every tiny critter that calls our waterways home.

By protecting water quality, we’re protecting life itself. This month, take a moment to think about how your daily actions can help keep rivers like the Musconetcong thriving, for both the creatures you can see and the ones you can’t.

Simple Ways You Can Help Protect Water Quality

• Plant native vegetation — it helps absorb rainwater and filters pollutants before they reach waterways.
• Conserve water — using less means less strain on treatment systems and local resources.
• Reduce single-use plastics — litter can break down and release harmful chemicals into the water.
• Pick up pet waste — it can wash into waterways during rain.
• Wash your car at a car wash — to prevent soap and grime from going into storm drains.
• Fix leaks — dripping oil, antifreeze, or other fluids from cars can wash into streams.
• Dispose of chemicals properly — never dump paint, oil, or cleaners down drains or storm sewers.