Sierra Streams Institute laboratory services include nutrient analysis, bacteria analysis and benthic macroinvertebrate sampling and identification. Duplicate sampling by local and state government laboratories in the course of several collaborative studies has confirmed the validity and consistent reliability of our laboratory data. We also sell copies of our Bug Book, a comprehensive guide to macro invertebrates in the region.
Nutrient Analysis
We analyze our water samples for nutrients including:
- Total Phosphate
- Reactive Phosphate
- Nitrates
- Ammonia
- Iron
- Additional analyses possible with inquiry
Bacteria Testing
We analyze our water quality samples for the following bacteria:
- Total Coliform
- E. Coli
Heavy Metals Analysis
We measure point concentrations of heavy metals such as cadmium, arsenic, and lead in solid materials such as soils. NOTE: this analysis is subject to a briefing by staff regarding variability in soil metals and how to interpret measurements. This service does not provide human health guidelines or data that should be used in applying any health guidelines.
Benthic Macroinvertebrate Identification
We provide Benthic Macroinvertebrate (BMI) sample processing. Samples are identified to SAFIT level 2, which involves ID to Genus, and species where possible, following SWAMP protocol and appropriate QC procedures. Additionally, we have published ‘The Bug Book’ that is available for sale below.
Rent waders
We have chest waders of various sizes that we rent to the community. Whether you want to get out fly fishing or need waders for your work, we can provide waders for your purposes (unless we are using them for our work).
Fees
| Test | SSI Volunteer | Community Member | Community Partner | Business |
| Bacteria: Coliform and E. coli | $39 | $51 | $53 | $63 |
| Phosphate (reactive) | $25 | $39 | $41 | $51 |
| Nitrate | $26 | $35 | $37 | $49 |
| Phosphate (reactive) + nitrate | $30 | $60 | $62 | $72 |
| X-Ray Fluorescence Heavy Metals (As, Cd, Pb, other metals) | Inquire | Inquire | Inquire | Inquire |
| Aquatic Bioassessment | Inquire | Inquire | Inquire | Inquire |
| Rent waders | $10/day | $10/day | $10/day | $10/day |
For more information:
Contact the Chemistry Lab Manager at lab@sierrastreamsinstitute.org for all chemistry related questions.
Contact the BMI Lab Manager at bugs@sierrastreamsinstitute.org for all BMI and wader related questions.
