Lake and stream volunteer monitoring: How to get involved
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EmailGrant applications are due March 6, 2026, for organizations wishing to host stream monitoring or cleanup efforts. Enrollment for lake monitoring is open now through August.
Michigan has a vast treasure of 11,000 lakes and 36,000 miles of streams. Did you know that you can invest in these precious resources by becoming a volunteer lake and stream monitor with the Michigan Clean Water Corps (MiCorps)?
Each year MiCorps volunteers collect valuable water quality and habitat data on inland lakes and streams statewide. This information is used by individuals, local communities, researchers, and state agencies like the Michigan Department of Environment, Great Lakes, and Energy (EGLE) and the Department of Natural Resources to better protect and manage Michigan’s waters and the fish and wildlife that rely on them.
This volunteer monitoring opportunity, sponsored by EGLE and administered by Michigan State University Extension in partnership with the Huron River Watershed Council and the Michigan Lakes and Streams Association, gives you an inside look into what’s happening in your favorite lake and stream and allows you to actively contribute to their conservation. You can get involved by choosing from one of MiCorps three programs: Volunteer Stream Monitoring Program, Cooperative Lakes Monitoring Program, and the Volunteer Stream Cleanup Program.
Monitor a stream near you
Volunteers participating in the Volunteer Stream Monitoring Program (VSMP) work with local organizations to monitor stream quality by examining the aquatic invertebrate community and stream habitat. MiCorps supports these local organizations by providing training and assistance with all aspects of a scientific, high-quality stream monitoring program, including an online database where the public can access stream data collected by volunteers. MiCorps also awards grant funding to nonprofit organizations and local units of government to create and maintain stream volunteer networks around the state.
Local MiCorps Stream Monitoring groups are always searching for more volunteers. To get involved, find a stream monitoring group near you and ask how you can help.
If you are a nonprofit or local government organization, MiCorps offers stream monitoring grants to help launch, implement, and maintain your stream monitoring efforts. 2026 grant applications are due March 6 at 5:00 pm.
Become a volunteer lake monitor
Volunteers participating in the Cooperative Lakes Monitoring Program (CLMP) monitor water quality, shoreline habitat, and invasive and native aquatic plants to document changes in lake quality over time. CLMP volunteers have been collecting high-quality data since 1974. MiCorps provides CLMP volunteers with detailed training in scientific monitoring protocols and ongoing expert support, as well as manages an online public database and generates annual summary reports for each lake enrolled.
Want to begin monitoring a lake near you? Start by visiting MiCorps.net. New volunteers will need to create an account, select their lake, and choose from a menu of monitoring activities. As part of this program, you’ll receive detailed instructions, training, and equipment to collect this valuable data. Visit our “Become a Volunteer” webpage to begin enrollment; enrollment for the 2026 season is open now, with rolling deadlines starting March 1.
Cleaning streams
In addition to our monitoring programs, the MiCorps Volunteer Stream Cleanup Program (VSCP) offers grants for local governments to support events to clean up trash from Michigan’s rivers, streams, and creeks. Grants can pay for equipment, trash pickup, staff time, and volunteer appreciation items. 2026 grant applications are due March 6 at 5:00 pm.
Still not sure where to start? Drop us an email at MiCorps@msu.edu.
A version of this article was originally published in the Winter 2025 issue of the Michigan Riparian magazine, an issue dedicated entirely to the MiCorps program.
