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- Info
What we know and don't know about water quality at stream crossings
| Author: |
Taylor, S.E.; Rummer, R.B.; Yoo, K.H [and others] |
| Date: |
1999 |
| Periodical: |
Journal of Forestry |
| Abstract: |
Reduction of nonpoint source pollution of forest streams is a major issue in the forest products industry. Consequently, extensive research has been focused on documenting impacts of forest harvesting, road construction, and site preparation on water quality in forest streams. Researchers have found that roads create more pollution, in the form of sediment, than harvesting activities and that stream crossings are the most frequent sources of sediment introduction (Rothwell 1983). Swift (1985) stated, "The stream crossing is the most critical section of road influencing water quality. During and for some time after construction, raw and exposed fill reaches into the channel." To help foresters enter the forest in a more environmentally sensitive and cost-effective manner, this article reviews the knowledge base on water quality impacts from different types of forest road stream crossings and discusses recommendations for future work in this area. This review of our current state of knowledge on the water quality impacts from crossings shows that we need data for a wide variety of stream sizes, soil types, terrain, and climatological conditions so that policymakers can develop scientifically sound best management practices. |
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