Campbell's role as an intern for the Haw River Assembly is to conduct surveys of several streams and tributaries in the Haw River watershed with the goal of contributing to research on the overall health of the watershed.
Virginia Campbell began working as a River Watch Intern for the Haw River Assembly in February 2026. The Haw River Assembly is a nonprofit organization founded in 1982 to protect the Haw River and connect community members through environmental education, conservation and pollution prevention.
The Haw River stretches 110 miles, and tributaries of the Haw River extend through several counties (including Alamance County), providing drinking water and recreational opportunities to residents.
“As a current intern and past Eco-Rep for the Office of Sustainability at Elon, I have been able to learn how sustainability is applicable to many different fields and areas of study. Now as an intern for the Haw River Assembly, I have an even greater understanding of how sustainability is important in addressing both human and environmental health,” Campbell said.
Campbell’s role as an intern for the Haw River Assembly is to conduct surveys of several streams and tributaries in the Haw River watershed with the goal of contributing to research on the overall health of the watershed. Data collection includes biological and chemical parameters, as well as macroinvertebrate sampling. Macroinvertebrates are organisms that can be seen without a microscope. Stream macroinvertebrates are good indicators of water quality since different types have varying tolerances to pollution. Pollution-sensitive macroinvertebrates, such as stoneflies and caddisflies, for example, can only be found in good quality water.
The Haw River Assembly has several opportunities for community members to get involved in helping to protect the river, including educational events and volunteer opportunities.
Anyone interested in learning more about the Haw River Assembly may sign up to receive weekly updates on events and information or view the event calendar.