Meet our top three counters
More than 10,000 citizen scientists have helped document the river herring run size using the underwater “fishcam” and counting platform at MysticHerring.org. There are three top counters that stand out: together they have watched more than 100,000 fish this year alone. We invite you to meet: Christine (kaagamc), Nadine Solomon (AnnieMax) and ____ (TerrapinStation)--and hear why they think counting fish is so important.
Christine | Leaderboard Username Kaagamc
“It's important to me to count herring because this data helps MRWA and other stakeholders understand the health of the watershed and of the river herring population. It's great that it's a good news story now and hopefully it will continue to be positive, but if the numbers decline, that's important to know as well. Especially since we've learned how to assist the fish in their migration and could take action to address the change.
It's been amazing to discover this natural wonder happening right under our noses. When I think of migrations, I usually think of herds of zebra or wildebeests in Africa, so it's exciting to see this natural wonder happening here. Some of the video clips of hundreds of fish whizzing by in a minute are awe-inspiring. It's also interesting to see the fish behavior. Some zip upstream with no trouble at all while others are clearly struggling. And some poor things get pushed out of the frame tumbling head over tail. I like to think they took a rest along the edge of the river and then joined the groups that flew by.
I think it's important to have lots of counters because that gives you better data. The margin of error is lower so far this year compared to last, and I think it's in part because so many people are counting. But it's a marathon, not a sprint; even if you only count a handful of videos a day, it's amazing how quickly the numbers can add up and you can find yourself on the leaderboard. But if you're not on the leaderboard, that's ok too...the fish don't care!”
Nadine | Leaderboard Username AnnieMax
“I usually count herring with my grandchildren who are just learning how to count. They can’t help me count the busy videos but they do like to see the fish swimming on the screen. We’re local so we also visit the Upper Mystic Lake Dam and watch the cormorants eating the fish that swim by. My grandson was somewhat horrified when he realized that they were eating the fish that we count. His worry evaporated when we saw an eagle hunting for the fish last year. For some reason, the eagle gets a pass.
I think that anyone who lives near the dam should count fish because you’re more likely to visit the dam and become aware of the seasonal rhythms of this often ignored waterway. First, the herring come, then the cormorants and eagles. When the fish leave the area, so do their predators. I never imagined that I could watch this natural drama occurring so close to Boston.
I had an early career in science as a microbiologist. Though I never did field work, I enjoy the science aspect of the fish count and I like to watch the data come in over time. I also enjoy the competition that the Leaderboard provides. I often wonder if Terrapin Station realizes that he’s competing against an old grandmother from Arlington.
When I’m not counting with my grandson and granddaughter, I’m counting with my two Boxers, Annie and Maxine, sitting beside me on the couch. They also enjoy visiting the dam and barking at the birds.”
Jeff | Leaderboard Username TerrapinStation
I started counting fish after i had helped "lift" herring in Rhode Island with Bill Mcwah three or fours years ago. My brother gave me the link and I slowly became hooked. While I do not consider myself an environmentalist, i am interested in the environment. Counting herring lets me feel i am helping sustain the species in a small way.
Who would thought counting fish could be fun. I enjoy the competition. Tip of the hat to Annie and Kagamac who were fun to count with last year. This year Annie and I have sort of formed a bond and kind of count in unison. I hope we cross the "finish line" together. We'll see how long our moratorium lasts! I think she is as competitive as me but also respects my commitment as I do hers. Its fun to see how we treat each others friendship if I dare call it that.
Frankly, I wish we had more counters who have the time to count. Not only is it fun and safe competition, I cant describe the thrill of counting fish at 1/10th speed because there are so darn many fish. Each time I get one of these clips I am amazed. I think my record this year is well over 200 fish in 25 seconds! AWESOME! My son has taken the bait and is now hovering around 7th place.
In closing, There is nothing on television. Count fish.