Regression analysis of chemical and physical data collected on Beech Creek resulted in two curves that relate the concentration of free hydrogen ion to the electrical specific conductance of the water. These curves provide a means of estimating, through use of data telemetered from a water-quality monitor on Beech Creek, the acid load in the stream at any time. These estimates of acid loads in Beech Creek will enable the operators of Foster Joseph Sayers Dam on Bald Eagle Creek to release sufficient alkaline water from the reservoir to prevent fish kills in lower Bald Eagle Creek that could be caused by the acid from Beech Creek.
The acid content of the West Branch Susquehanna River upstream from the city of Lock Haven usually exceeds the amount that can be neutralized by Bald Eagle Creek. However, inasmuch as the alkaline content of 13ald Eagle Creek exceeds the amount required to effectively neutralize the acidity of Beech Creek, some water may be conserved in the reservoir for the purpose of improving the quality of the West Branch when the river is unusually acid.