Dragonfly and Damselfly Survey Orientation

Help us document dragonfly and damselfly species throughout the Johnson Creek Watershed! Odonates (dragonflies and damselflies) are not only beautiful to look at- they are important indicator species in aquatic areas, like the riparian zone along Johnson Creek! Entomologist extraordinaire Zee Searles Mazzacano from CASM Environmental will train volunteers in survey protocol and identification skills.

No experience necessary! This opportunity is open to all! Sign-up with a partner/group or sign-up on your own and you will be paired up with other volunteers!

Click here to RSVP

When: Orientation –  June 8th, 9am-4pm, with an hour lunch break.

Survey Season – Weekends from June to October. Surveys are self scheduled with your survey group.

Where: Indoor training – Gresham Council Chambers (see directions below) 

Outdoor training – Tegart Lane pond, corner of SW Brixton Ave and SW 43rd St in Gresham, more directions will be provided at the indoor training. 

Survey Season – surveys will take place at 3 stormwater ponds in SW Gresham and Brookside Wetlands in Portland 

Time commitment: Orientation – 6 hours

Survey Season – Sign-up for 3-4 surveys (about once a month) during the season. Surveys typically take between 1.5 and 2 hours (between 6-8 hours total survey time)

How to prepare: This event will happen rain or shine, so dress for weather: rain coat, warm layers, sun hat, and sunscreen as necessary. Wear sturdy, close-toed shoes and clothes you don’t mind getting dirty. Bring a filled water bottle, a snack, and LUNCH. There are some spots to grab a quick lunch in Gresham if you want to eat out!

We will provide: We will provide nets and guide books, but you are welcome to bring your own net, guide, binoculars, and good camera. We can also provide bus fare to and from the event. Please contact info@jcwc.org to arrange bus fare. 

Health and Safety: We will follow current Oregon Health Authority guidelines. Masks are not required, but encouraged in indoor spaces where social distancing is not possible. Stay home if you are experiencing symptoms of any contagious illness or have had recent contact with someone exhibiting symptoms of any illness.

Children are welcome to participate in surveys. Anyone under the age of 16 is required to be accompanied by an attentive adult. 

Accessibility: These surveys require walking/standing/squatting for up to two hours in 65-80 degree weather. Surveys take place on the banks of ponds that may be steep and slippery, surveyors must have solid footing. Volunteers must be willing to handle live insects, including the use of nets to catch and identify species. 

Before the training please download and sign up for iNaturalist App on your mobile device. All data collection will take place using the iNaturalist app. 

Click here to RSVP

Directions to Site:

Gresham Council Chambers, 1331 NW Eastman Pkwy, Gresham, OR 97030.

By Transit: Take the Max Blue Line to Gresham City Hall. Walk across the City Hall parking lot to the Council Chambers and School District Building. OR Take the 21 Bus and exit NB NW Eastman and Division, SB 1300 Block NW Eastman. 

By Bike: Take the Springwater Trail Corridor and exit at SW 7th street and SW Eastman Parkway. Bike along Eastman Parkway until reaching the destination.