USGS Urban Stream Study

The loss of sensitive species in streams begins to occur at the initial stages of urban development, according to a new study by the USGS. The study found that streams are more sensitive to development than previously understood.

Contaminants, habitat destruction, and increasing streamflow flashiness resulting from urban development can degrade stream ecosystems and cause degradation downstream with adverse effects on biological communities and on economically valuable resources, such as fisheries and tourism.

The study also found that the effects of urbanization on the biological community vary geographically depending on the predominant land cover and the health of the community prior to urban development.

Among the positive outcomes of the study is evidence that highly-degraded streams can be improved by implementing management actions that are designed to reduce specific stressors.

Multiple streams in nine metropolitan areas across the continental U.S. were sampled to assess the effects of urban development on stream ecosystems. Study areas include Atlanta, Ga., Birmingham, Ala., Boston, Mass., Dallas, Texas, Denver, Colo., Milwaukee, Wis., Portland, Ore., Raleigh, N.C., and Salt Lake City, Utah.

The study, entitled “Effects of urban development on stream ecosystems in nine metropolitan study areas across the United States,” was done by the USGS National Water-Quality Assessment Program, which conducts regional and national assessments.

Another recent report from USGS explores Management strategies used throughout the U.S. to reduce the impacts of urban development on stream ecosystems.

The report, entitled “Strategies for Managing the Effects of Urban Development on Streams” was written in partnership with the Center for Watershed Protection in Maryland.

source: U.S. Geological Survey