Author(s): James Cullis
Linked Author(s):
Keywords: No Keywords
Abstract: Didymosphenia geminata is a nuisance diatom that can form large mats covering the streambed. These blooms impact the aesthetic value and biodiversity of mountain streams and threaten both valuable fish species and the sustainability of water supply infrastructure. In recent years there has been an increase in the nuisance blooms of D. geminata, as well as spreading to new watersheds. While some studies have considered the habitat preferences of D. geminata, none have looked in detail at the impact of flood events and bed disturbance, which are considered to be primary controls on growth. This paper will present initial results from the analysis of the impact of flood events on D. geminata coverage in Boulder Creek, CO. The objective of this research is to quantifying critical levels of shear stress and frequency of bed disturbance for the consideration of managed flood releases to control future growth.
Year: 2009