Benthic macroinvertebrate expert, Dan Boward, retires

The CMC Team is very sad to say goodbye to our friend and colleague, Dan Boward, who is retiring from Maryland Department of Natural Resources after a 34-year career in stream monitoring. Dan worked for the state of Maryland on surface water and benthic macroinvertebrate monitoring. Highlights of his career include:

• editing the 1999 book, From the Mountain to the Sea – the State of Maryland’s Freshwater Streams,
• developing the Maryland Biological Stream Survey Benthic Index of Biotic Integrity,
• launching Stream Waders (a citizen-based volunteer benthic macroinvertebrate monitoring program), and
• participating in the Maryland Water Monitoring Council as Executive Secretary for 14 years.

In Dan’s own words, “Throughout my career, I was lucky enough to – at least occasionally – keep my toes in the water, so to speak. One of my favorite activities has been to stand in a freshwater stream, clipboard in hand, and wonder what fascinating critters lurk beneath the cobble. I’ve sampled streams with professionals and volunteers – from little kids to octogenarians – and almost every minute has been a joy.” Dan, we wish you the very best in your retirement! We know you will continue to the find the joy in exploring the natural world and we hope that you stay in touch with your fellow naturalists here in the Chesapeake watershed.