Purpose:

To describe the participatory process of community monitoring using aquatic insects as a tool to assess environmental quality in Cuitzmala y Purificacion basins.

Methodological design:

A participatory environmental monitoring model is proposed, which involves key actors, covering the upper, middle and lower part of each basin. A workshop was designed in appropriate way to the context of local actors and basin characteristics. The workshop consisted of four stages, involving theory and practice. Field diary was developed thought descriptive notes about what is seen and doing the participants.

Results:

Six community groups were formed, five in schools and one a Citizen Environmental Committee. Most participants found the workshop beneficial and expressed a desire for an increased number of monitoring sessions and additional monitoring sites. Participants successfully assessed their river section using aquatic insects, and it is recommended to provide technical support to strengthen monitoring skills and long-term monitoring.

Research limitations:

Still this action is considered an extracurricular activity. For this reason, is necessary work with professor to integrate these activities in the education program of the schools.

Findings:

Aquatic insects community monitoring strength and complement the scientific monitoring. The methodology used can be replicated in other coastal basins.