Evaluating Aquatic Habitat Quality Using Channel Morphology and Multiscale-Scale Modeling Techniques

Abstract

Fifteen streams in Northwestern Vermont spanning five geomorphic classes: stable, and unstable through change in planform, widening, aggrading, and degrading, (according to the Vermont Agency of Natural Resources Geomorphic Assessment (RGA) Protocols) were surveyed to assess the linkages between channel morphology and aquatic habitat quality. Detailed channel surveys were completed including cross sectional and longitudinal profiles, substrate samples, and rapid geomorphic assessments. Habitat assessments included measures of substrate availability, embeddedness, presence of large woody debris and Rapid Habitat Assessments (RHA). Simple regression analysis of geomorphic parameters and habitat parameters show significant correlation indicating that habitat quality can be predicted by geomorphic condition. In the second stage of this project, watershed scale modeling was completed for each watershed using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT). The model was calibrated and validated using gauged watersheds within the study region (Lake Champlain Basin). The model was used to generate stream hydrographs and basic watershed parameters (landuse summaries, runoff, sediment Cianfrani, C.M., W.C. Hession, and M. Watzin (2004), Evaluating aquatic habitat quality using channel morphology and multiscale-scale modeling techniques, in Proceedings of the World Water and Environmental Resources Congress, Sehlke, Hayes, and Stevens (eds.), American Society of Civil Engineers, Reston, VA. (cd-rom)