Diatoms of North AmericaThe 2026 Society for Freshwater Science (SFS) Diatom Taxonomy Workshop in Spokane WA was hosted by Sarah Spaulding and the SFS Diatom Taxonomic Certification Committee. The full-day workshop brought together 20 participants, including students, researchers, and environmental professionals, for hands-on training in freshwater diatom taxonomy and microscopy.
Each participant presented their thought processes to the group, based on the morphological guide applied to their unique specimen. Together, we explored the distinguishing characters of their taxon, projected on the screen for all to see. Discussions emphasized how we might reach taxonomic consistency and quality assurance as individuals, and across laboratories. Participants were introduced to the SFS Diatom Taxonomic Certification Program, including the requirements for Level 1 (Genus) and Level 2 (Species) certification and had the opportunity to sit for certification examinations during the conference.
Supporting Student Training
The workshop was supported in part by the American Microscopical Society (AMS) Microscopy Training Funds, which promote education and training in microscopy and imaging techniques. Through this support, six student participants each received a $40 award to help offset workshop registration costs.
Congratulations to the student award recipients:
- Ria Ghosh, Doctoral program, University of California, Riverside
- Nate Heili, Doctoral program, Montana State University
- Alexis Hollander, Doctoral program, University of Wyoming
- Kelley Sinning, Doctoral program, Colorado State University
- Grace Krane, Doctoral program, University of Notre Dame
- Kayla Dickson, McNair Scholar, Eastern Washington University
We thank the American Microscopical Society for supporting microscopy education and making taxonomic training more accessible to students. We extend our appreciation to Sarah Spaulding, Mike Broomall (SFS TCC), the Diatom Taxonomic Certification Committee, and participants for a successful event.
