News Release

Community Volunteers Needed for Dragonfly Mercury Project

Upper Delaware staff and volunteers catching dragonflies in the river on the Ten Mile River.

National Park Service

News Release Date: August 2, 2026
Contact: Ingrid Peterec, 570-493-1020

The National Park Service invites the public to participate in the Dragonfly Mercury Project, a nationwide citizen science initiative focused on monitoring mercury in aquatic ecosystems. Upper Delaware Scenic and Recreational River is seeking 5–6 volunteers to assist with dragonfly larvae collection for mercury analysis on Aug. 4 and 5, 2026 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.  

“The National Park Service has participated in this nationwide citizen-science event for more than a decade,’ said Ingrid Peterec, chief of interpretation. “Public involvement in the project is essential to its success and helps strengthen community connections to the Upper Delaware River Valley.”  

The Dragonfly Mercury Project engages volunteers in collecting samples that help scientists and resource managers better understand and address mercury contamination and risks to both humans and wildlife. Since 2009, over 8,500 volunteers have contributed to the nation’s largest assessment of mercury contamination through sampling at more than 190 national parks and public lands throughout the United States. 

Volunteers will work alongside National Park Service staff at the Milanville office and at sampling sites along the Upper Delaware River corridor, including Tusten Mountain River Access and Callicoon River Access. The event is weather-dependent, as sampling requires volunteers to enter the river. If inclement weather occurs, the event will be rescheduled for Aug. 11 and 12, 2026. 

Supplies and safety equipment, including Coast Guard-approved life jackets, personal protective equipment, and data collection supplies, will be provided.

Volunteers supply their own lunch. All ages and experience levels are welcome; minors must be accompanied by an adult. This is an unpaid opportunity. 

If interested in participating in this volunteer project, please contact e-mail us

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