Recent observations have shown a decline in fish populations in the Conasauga River. Anecdotal evidence also suggests similar trends for macroinvertebrates, potentially indicating food limitations for fish in the area. This study examines macroinvertebrate communities in the Conasauga River to test the hypothesis that populations are lower in abundance compared to neighboring rivers through comparative analyses of macroinvertebrate biomass and abundance along the Conasauga River, Armuchee Creek, South Chickamauga Creek, and a global reference dataset. I found no statistically significant differences in biomass among these systems. There was a weak longitudinal gradient in macroinvertebrate abundance and biomass. Additionally, there were shifts in community composition from upstream to downstream. The findings highlight the influence of localized and historical factors, such as land use, over natural longitudinal gradients. This also emphasizes the need for conservation strategies that address multiple stressors to preserve freshwater ecosystems.