My research began with an exploration of the Spring Brook watershed and the conservation issues that surround the stream.  As a fisherman myself, I was interested in the stream's unique brook trout habitat and wanted to learn more about the measures being taken to protect it.  I started my research by contacting the Cannon River Watershed Partnership and reviewing some of the documents they have produced over the years that concern Spring Brook.  The work of a community organization called the Spring Brook was very useful.  These documents consisted of meeting minutes, conservation goals, and overviews of environmental issues within the Spring Brook watershed.

Once I learned about the general environmental issues in the Spring Brook watershed, I ventured out to the stream myself to analyze the habitat for brook trout.  My knowledge of fishing and interest in watershed restoration as a career helped in my on-site analysis of the stream.  I took many digital photos of places that provided examples of healthy trout habitat along the stream.  I also documented potential threats to the stream, including erosion sites, traces of cattle grazing, and agricultural fields.  After my on-site investigation, I browsed journal articles and books that cover the elements of a trout habitat to support my observations. 

To find out how Spring Brook contributes to a "sense of place" within the Cannon River region, I sent an e-mail to two individuals who have history with the stream and the conservation efforts that have taken place.  I was very pleased with the responses I received, and used their input as much as possible throughout the project.

From my knowledge of watershed conservation, I was aware that GIS mapping is a very important aspect of protection efforts.  Using my GIS knowledge, I produced several maps that detail some of the important features of the watershed.  The data for these maps was taken from the Minnesota DNR data deli and used in Arcview GIS 8.3.

The general purpose of my project was to educate people in this area about the unique habitat and recreational opportunities that Spring Brook offers.  The organization of my material focused on providing an overview of the stream and also providing recommendations for future management policies.