Stillwater River Watershed Paige Ruppel, Esther Wong, and Kelsie Keen YWSI 2003

Location

Stillwater Watershed Ohio Scenic River in miles long 59 different species of fish Largest Redhorse Minnow population Mainstream is healthy Headwaters are unhealthy

Words to Know Watershed- area of land that acts as a drainage system for streams, lakes, or rivers, much like a drainage basin Macroinvertebrates- an invertebrate animal large enough to see with the unaided eye ICI- measurement used to determine the diversity of macroinvertebrates in a watershed IBI- measurement used to determine the diversity of species of fish; higher numbers are given to fish more sensitive to pollution Riparian Zone- area between the upland and aquatic habitats QHEI- Measurement used to determine the quality of riparian habitat

Hypothesis 1 When QHEI decreases, the IBI and ICI decrease as well. Corresponding effects also happen when QHEI increases.

Analysis Inconsistent changes over time Measurements mimic one another Hypothesis supported

Hypothesis 2 Correlation occurs between IBI and ICI.

Analysis Time comparisons Corresponding relationships Hypothesis supported

Hypothesis 3 When agricultural land use increases, the IBI decreases.

Analysis Evidence strong Few exceptions Hypothesis supported

Conclusion Channelization destruction in headwaters affected stream quality Mid-lower section retains natural habitat Increased agricultural activity affects IBI and ICI

Concerns More development Manure spills increasing Channelization occurring in the mid- lower section

Acknowledgements Peggy Redman YWSI 2003 Sponsors Leslie Southern Kathryn Kelley Steve Gordon Virginie Bouchard Paula Williams Julie Burns Ohio EPA Our Parents and supporters And all our friends that helped make this week special!