Lakehead University offers the Ontario Benthos Biomonitoring Network (OBBN) Training Course in dual formats

Lakehead University’s Office of Community Engagement and Lifelong Learning is proud to offer its Ontario Benthos Biomonitoring Network (OBBN) Training Course in two formats: online and in-person.  This dual approach makes the training course accessible to a broader audience across Ontario and beyond. 

This course covers biomonitoring theory, sampling methods, benthic-invertebrate identification, and bioassessment calculations. The training is recommended for anyone interested in using benthic macroinvertebrates to monitor streams or lakes using provincially standardized methods, environmental enthusiasts, and working professionals.

The online option of the course is a seven-week program starting April 23, 2025.  Participants will learn through a combination of self-paced materials, video tutorials led by Dr. Chris Jones, and live weekly Zoom sessions on Wednesdays at 7 pm. This format is designed to accommodate learners with busy schedules who can't attend in person.

For those seeking hands-on experience, a two-day in-person field training session will be held at Lakehead University's Thunder Bay campus on May 2nd and 3rd, 2025.  This intensive program focuses on practical field techniques and in-classroom invertebrate identification.

Participants who demonstrate proficiency in either format will receive a Certificate of Completion from Lakehead University and be recognized as certified OBBN members, joining a network of experts dedicated to protecting Ontario’s aquatic ecosystems.

The registration cost for both the online and in-person courses is $300 (no HST).  Interested individuals are encouraged to register early.  For more information and to register, visit https://communityzone.lakeheadu.ca/obbn.