Introductory biology at Western State College takes advantage of our exceptional location. There are many stream ecosystems that we can visit minutes from campus. Within 30 miles of Gunnison, we can explore high alpine tundra, streams and rivers, lakes, sage grasslands, and forests of fir, aspen, lodgepole pine, and spruce.

The following is a short trip we take every semester to Tomichi Creek at a point eight miles east of Gunnison. The water quality is determined by collecting macroinvertebrates (mayfly, stonefly, worms, beetle larva, etc.) and analyzing the tolerance of the invertebrates found. The lab is based on material developed by the Save Our Streams Program of the Izaak Walton League of America.

Here are several photos of students analyzing Tomichi creek. The water was found to be of high quality.

Tomichi creek with storm threatening.

Two students returning with a tray of macroinvertebrates to be identified.

Even the students from Spain were enjoying themselves.

Group discussion of a mystery invertebrate

Two students identifying invertebrates.

Tomichi Creek--a classic meandering stream