The robust burrowing mayfly was once very abundant in the Ohio River. The biggest obstacles that this unique mayfly could not overcome was increased sediment in the waterways they called home, mostly from deforestation and farming along the rivers. The addition of dams and pollution added to the mayfly's fate. With the loss of native clams and mussels like the extinct tubercled blossom, which were natural filter feeders, the water quality diminished quickly in the early 1900’s. The nymphs of all burrowing mayfly species require clean water as they are very sensitive to changes in their environment. Not much is known about the habits or specific life cycle of the robust burrowing mayfly. It is unknown why this mayfly was last seen in 1926, but other similar species were able to survive. Although Jurassic Park is fiction, scientists are working on several de-extinction projects. In fact, in 2003 scientists did bring back the extinct Pyrenean ibex, a type of wild goat, for 7 minutes before it died, showing de-extinction is possible. The robust burrowing mayfly would probably not be a good candidate unless a specimen could be found in a museum or university. If the robust burrowing mayfly was brought to life, could it ever be reintroduced to its native homeland in the Ohio River? The environment these mayflies require is still a work in progress. While many laws have been passed to clean up the rivers, most freshwater mussels in North America are still endangered. Without filter feeders such as clams, oysters, and mussels, more human efforts are needed to create clean waterways that species like the robust burrowing mayfly could survive in once more.