Abstract
The geomorphology, hydrology, and ecology of a second-order stream in central Virginia were compared to that of an adjacent reference stream in order to determine the impact of a small, 100-yrold dam. The dam had little effect on stage hydrographs, but surface release of water resulted in temperatures 2–5°C warmer than the reference stream during spring and summer months. Stream geomorphology was not highly altered by the dam, being influenced more strongly by valley geology and topography, but riffle sediment size distributions were affected by sediment trapping in the reservoir. Macroinvertebrate populations just below the dam appeared impaired, while sites 1 km downstream and on the reference stream scored well on ecological metrics. Bluegill fish (Lepomis macrochirus) which likely originate in the lake were abundant in the dammed creek, whereas the reference stream was dominated by native dace (Phoxinus and Rhinichthys spp.) and creek chubs (Semotilus atromaculatus). Overall, the impact of the dam on the creek is only moderate and declines significantly within 1 km downstream.
Sign-in/Register to access full text options 
Talk to us
Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have
Schedule a callDisclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.
