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Communication at the NABS Annual meeting, Keystone, 2000
(488) ASSESSING RIVER IMPACT IN AN INTACT PRIORITY WATERSHED DESIGNATED FOR RESTORATION.
T.V. Ash, D.L. Feldman, and J.L. Farris. Ecotoxicology Research Facility, Arkansas State University, State University, Arkansas,USA 72467
The Strawberry River watershed of Arkansas has been designated as a priority watershed for restoration and a critical watershed for conservation of the nation's freshwater biological diversity. The river is hydrologically intact and contains over 100 species of fish and more than 30 species of mussels. Portions of the Strawberry River have been listed under Section 303(d) of the Clean Water Act as degraded due to siltation, nutrients and pathogens. Nine total sites were sampled seasonally for a year and included headwaters, midreaches, and lower stream segments. Macroinvertebrate were collected using core samples, leaf packs, large woody debris and snags, and rocks or rip rap. The EPT index was calculated for each of the sites, and used to indicate the presence or absence of sensitive species. Analysis of variance was used to compare characteristics among sites and diversity within each stream segment. Acute ambient water toxicity tests using Pimephales promelas and Ceriodaphnia dubia and sediment tests with Chironomus tentans did not indicate significant impact at any sites. Elevated phosphate levels support the current 303(d) listing but the community characteristics and toxicity test results suggest that designated impacts are difficult to delineate.
Presented at 1:00 PM on Wednesday, May 31, 2000 in Ecotoxicology / Toxicity Testing
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