Macroinvertebrate Diversity in Relation to Salinity in the Raquette River (2022)

Biodiversity is necessary to wetland ecosystems, but wetland located in close proximity to human habitations face many threats, including salinization due to runoff from road salt. This study examines the relationship between macroinvertebrate diversity and salinity of the water in three locations on the Raquette River at varying distances from human intervention: Sandstoner Park; Lehamn Park; and Postwood Beach. We sampled macroinvertebrate communities using Hester-Dendy traps and D netting, and calculated richness and diversity indices at the order level. A chloride test was performed at each site, both when the traps were set and when the traps were collected. We hypothesize that sites further downstream will have the highest salinity and the lowest number of macroinvertebrate taxa. Our research aims to raise awareness  of the implications of road salt use and to encourage town authorities to be cautious about the amount and type of salt used on roads.