Be part of an exciting community science effort in Otsego County! Join OCCA and some of our Culvert Team leaders to assess the conditions of culverts near Otsego Lake. If you like this type of volunteer work, you have the option to join one of our culvert teams as an assistant for other assessments throughout the summer!
What are the Culvert Teams Doing?
This summer, Culvert Team volunteers will hit the road to assess stream‑road crossings (culverts) across the watersheds of Otsego Lake, Canadarago Lake, and Butternut Creek. The focus of these assessments is to understand if culverts/bridges are conducive to aquatic travel, but we also collect data on the state of the structures themselves. The data collected determines if culverts allow for organisms such as fish, turtles, and other aquatic wildlife to navigate our local streams and tributaries.
Event Details:
🗓 Date: Friday, June 28, 2025
📍 Location: South West side of Otsego Lake Watershed, official meeting site TBD.
🧢 What to Bring: Waders or tall waterproof boots if you have them, water/snacks, sunscreen/bug spray.
⏱ When: 3-4 hours, 9 AM - 12:30 PM
🌟 RSVP / Info: Sign up here or email volunteer@occainfo.org
Why This Matters
Your participation means real-world impact. The collected data is open source and can be used by OCCA, the DEC, County Highway Department, Soil & Water Conservation District, and more to apply for grants, plan culvert repairs and replacements, and enhance stream health and wildlife passage. An improperly designed culvert doesn't just affect wildlife; it also can contribute to erosion and climate-related disasters.