Snag Habitat Examination Guidelines

This video tutorial demonstrates how to conduct a Riverwatch sample on a snag, a dead log in a stream. It explains the criteria for a snag habitat and the process of sampling with a partner using a dnet. The video covers collecting and inspecting samples for macroinvertebrates, and finalizing the snag sample by examining the log by hand. The tutorial emphasizes the importance of thorough inspection and teamwork in the sampling process.

What is the minimum length and diameter required for a log to be considered a snag habitat in Riverwatch?

• 4 ft long and 2 in in diameter

• 5 ft long and 3 in in diameter

• 3 ft long and 1 in in diameter

• 6 ft long and 4 in in diameter

In the hierarchy of habitats, where does a snag rank if a riffle or leaf pack is unavailable?

• Second

• Fourth

• First

• Third

What is the primary role of the partner when scraping a snag with a d-net?

• Hold the net

• Kick and disturb the log

• Collect water samples

• Measure the log

Why is it important to have the net on the downstream side while scraping the snag?

• To catch fish

• To prevent the net from floating away

• To ensure water flows into the net

• To avoid disturbing the water

What should be done after shaking the net in the water to remove fine sediment?

• Invert the net and dump contents into a bucket

• Dry the net with a towel

• Fill the wash bottle

• Inspect the net for damage

What is the purpose of inspecting the net for macroinvertebrates?

• To identify the type of water

• To clean the net

• To ensure no organisms are left behind

• To measure the net's capacity

What tool is recommended for examining the log by hand?

• A magnifying glass

• A pair of forceps

• A measuring tape

• A small net

If the log is small enough, what can be done to examine it more thoroughly?

• Cover it with a net

• Break it into smaller pieces

• Take it out of the stream and turn it upside down

• Leave it in the stream

How long should you spend examining the log by hand during the snag sample?

• 10 minutes

• 15 minutes

• 20 minutes

• 30 minutes

What should be done with loose pieces of the log or bark found during the examination?

• Use them to build a shelter

• Leave them in the stream

• Examine them closely

• Discard them