Ecoflows: Developing Indices of Streamflow Alteration Active
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) lists streamflow alteration as a key stressor on aquatic life in many watersheds. However, the MPCA currently does not have the information needed to quantitatively associate metrics from Index of Biological Integrity (IBI) surveys with metrics of streamflow alteration. We are using USGS streamgage data and MPCA IBI data to develop relations between streamflow alteration and biological responses.
The goal of this study is to quantify relations between altered hydrology and responses of fish and invertebrate communities. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) will use this information to evaluate watershed conditions and develop plans to restore and protect aquatic ecosystems in the watersheds. This study is being completed in two phases.
In Phase 1, we used data from long-term USGS streamgages to calculate hydrologic metrics for two time periods (1945-79 and 1981-2015). Time periods were selected based on literature focusing on trends in streamflows. A total of 178 hydrologic metrics were calculated using streamflow records and the EflowStats package in the R Statistical Environment. Metrics were compared between sites with and without observed trends in streamflow in order to identify metrics that could be used as indicators of altered hydrology.
In Phase 2, we are comparing metrics used to calculate Index of Biological Integrity scores from fish and invertebrate sampling conducted by the MPCA to hydrologic metrics calculated in Phase 1. Statistical relations between hydrologic and biological metrics will be developed to characterize changes in aquatic communities based on changes to hydrology in rivers throughout Minnesota.
Any use of trade, firm, or product names is for descriptive purposes only and does not imply endorsement by the U.S. Government.
Below are other science projects associated with this project.
USGS Cooperative Matching Funds
- Overview
The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) lists streamflow alteration as a key stressor on aquatic life in many watersheds. However, the MPCA currently does not have the information needed to quantitatively associate metrics from Index of Biological Integrity (IBI) surveys with metrics of streamflow alteration. We are using USGS streamgage data and MPCA IBI data to develop relations between streamflow alteration and biological responses.
The goal of this study is to quantify relations between altered hydrology and responses of fish and invertebrate communities. The Minnesota Pollution Control Agency (MPCA) will use this information to evaluate watershed conditions and develop plans to restore and protect aquatic ecosystems in the watersheds. This study is being completed in two phases.
Sources/Usage: Some content may have restrictions. View Media DetailsRed Lake River Bank Sloughing (Credit: Jeffrey Ziegeweid, USGS) In Phase 1, we used data from long-term USGS streamgages to calculate hydrologic metrics for two time periods (1945-79 and 1981-2015). Time periods were selected based on literature focusing on trends in streamflows. A total of 178 hydrologic metrics were calculated using streamflow records and the EflowStats package in the R Statistical Environment. Metrics were compared between sites with and without observed trends in streamflow in order to identify metrics that could be used as indicators of altered hydrology.
Sources/Usage: Some content may have restrictions. View Media DetailsAgricultural Tile Drain in Rice Creek, South-Central Minnesota. (Credit: Jeffrey Ziegeweid, USGS) In Phase 2, we are comparing metrics used to calculate Index of Biological Integrity scores from fish and invertebrate sampling conducted by the MPCA to hydrologic metrics calculated in Phase 1. Statistical relations between hydrologic and biological metrics will be developed to characterize changes in aquatic communities based on changes to hydrology in rivers throughout Minnesota.
Sources/Usage: Some content may have restrictions. View Media DetailsDes Moines River Bank Sloughing and Sediment Depositional Areas. (Credit: Jeffrey Ziegeweid, USGS ) Any use of trade, firm, or product names is for descriptive purposes only and does not imply endorsement by the U.S. Government.
- Science
Below are other science projects associated with this project.
USGS Cooperative Matching Funds
USGS Cooperative Matching Funds (CMF) support joint projects with our state, regional, tribal, and local partners to provide reliable, impartial, and timely information needed to understand and manage the Nation's water resources.