Friends of Blue Thumb

08/24/2026

08/21/2026

It's been a while, but we're back with another ! This pollution-sensitive macro is distinguished from a look-alike by its (usually but not always) 3 tails and the gill tufts along its abdomen. As larvae, their flat bodies help them cling onto rocks as they munch on algae and decaying plant matter. They don't eat at all during their 1-2 day aerial adulthood!

Fun fact: there are thousands of species of this critter worldwide!

Any guesses? (I know you know this one!)

📷: Natalie Landeck

08/20/2026

As Blue Thumb volunteers, you know how important healthy waterways and ecosystems are. This is a great opportunity to take that stewardship beyond the stream; help care for one of Oklahoma’s special public lands while connecting with fellow environmental volunteers.

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🌄 SAVE THE DATE! 🌿
Caring for Our Shared America – Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge
September 26, 2026

Celebrate the nation's largest single-day volunteer event dedicated to our public lands. Let's come together to make a difference and show our love for nature and the Wichita Mountains Wildlife Refuge! 🌲💚

🏞️ Event: National Public Lands Day
🌟 Theme: Caring for Our Shared America
📅 Mark your calendars – September 26, 2026

📝 Register Now!
Scan the QR code or click the link below to sign up:
https://forms.cloud.microsoft/g/dQUXuEPG4i

Mark your calendars and stay tuned for more details. Let's make this day unforgettable! 🌿🌟

08/18/2026

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It’s summer, prime season to play in rivers and lakes. Unfortunately, summer is also toxic algae season, which impacts our ability to enjoy our public waters. Toxic algae are actually a type of bacteria often referred to as “algae” because it looks similar. It grows quickly — in what are cal...

08/13/2026

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08/12/2026

The River Management Society offers several ways to engage with other river enthusiasts! There are float trips, an annual conference (to be held in Arkansas this year), virtual meet ups, and more.

https://www.facebook.com/share/v/19gF11Lt5u/

08/11/2026

2026-27 cohort of the Water Research Mentorship Program is open to any Oklahoma resident interested in or actively participating in water research in any capacity.

Trios are composed of a lead mentor, intermediate mentor, and mentee, who collectively work together to support each other throughout the academic year in professional and personal growth as we learn more about water research and opportunities across the state of Oklahoma. The mentorship program includes regular check-ins with your trio, whole cohort professional development, and in-person networking opportunities. Mentor and mentee expectations will be outlined and agreed upon at the initiation of the program in the Fall.

Time commitment is expected to be 5-10 hours per month for the entire academic year 2026-27. The program will conclude with an in person symposium in early April. Participants who complete the program will receive a certificate and gift at the end of the program.

If you have specific questions, please email program coordinators Mary Foltz ([email protected]) and Jaime Schussler ([email protected]). Pictures and more info available at: https://www.maryfoltz.org/service/mentorship

https://forms.cloud.microsoft/r/6LdMPFUs6e

08/11/2026

The River Management Society Symposium "Balancing Ecology, Experience, and Access" is coming to Northwest Arkansas on April 13-15, 2027!

Hosted by partners across the Ozark and Ouachita region, this event brings together river professionals, watershed leaders, recreation managers, Indigenous partners, and conservation practitioners from across the country for a week of learning, collaboration, and field exploration.

You could contribute to the topics discussed, there is a Call for Speakers available until October 1st! RMS invites proposals showcasing practical techniques, innovative research, policy solutions, and creative approaches that advance a balanced and holistic vision for river management. Contributions from all river types, regions, and management contexts are welcome. Submit your proposals at www.river-management.org/2027-symposium.