Utilization of New Technology with the Maryland Biological Stream Survey

Utilization of New Technology with the Maryland Biological Stream Survey

Natural resource agencies can take advantage of new technologies to assist in data processing and distribution of information to the wider public. Two programs at the Maryland Department of Natural Resources, the Maryland Biological Stream Survey (MBSS) and the Maryland Stream Waders (MSW; the volunteer branch of the MBSS), are working to integrate progressive hardware technologies and online applications. Over the past 15 years, MBSS biologists collected fish and benthic invertebrate data from 3,400 sites in non-tidal streams and rivers throughout the state. MSW volunteers collected benthic invertebrate data from nearly 6,000 sites over the past 11 years. Collection, dissemination, and quality control of these data have evolved over the past two years to match the demands of a more connected world. We are currently field testing rugged tablet PCs with the goal of reducing costs and time spent on data entry. A new Maryland StreamHealth website is online and allows viewers to quickly access MBSS and MSW results at both the state and neighborhood scale. This interactive tool maps and summarizes biological data into an easy format for the general public. Social media allow Stream Wader volunteers to connect with Maryland DNR and form a new community based around concerns for the aquatic natural resources of Maryland.