Sarah Bond
St. Olaf College, MN 55057, USA
Title: Differences in chemical properties and aquatic macroinvertebrate populations between forested and agricultural sites
Biography
Biography: Sarah Bond
Abstract
Using biota as important indicators of environmental quality improves upon standard chemical monitoring systems. Invertebrate communities are often used for aquatic bioassessment investigations. Rice Creek in Northfield, MN, is a cold trout stream surrounded by agricultural land and patches of forestry. Agricultural activities are primary contributors to the degradation of streams and lakes in the United States. This study tests the differences in water quality and macroinvertebrate populations between agricultural and forested areas and answers whether macroinvertebrate populations are adequate indicators of water quality. The goal of this study is to understand the relationship between water qualities and macroinvertebrate populations as well as provide evidence for conserving forested areas around stream communities. As one of the few streams in the state with native brook trout, it is important to understand the stream’s general health as well as the effect of human actions at the landscape scale. Four study sites were sampled three times for chemical properties. Macroinvertebrates were collected and identified. The data reveals no significant differences between agricultural and forested sites over each sampling period but that the water quality of Rice Creek is not ideal for trout and many other organisms. It provides evidence for increased compliance with Minnesota buffer laws and to decrease disturbance of the stream to preserve healthy aquatic communities.