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Different stream crossings can affect water quality in different ways. This research examined various stream crossings during different operational activities.
The authors of the research were Wallace M. Aust, Mathew B. Carroll, M.Chad Bolding and C. Andrew Dolloff. The paper was published in the Southern Journal of Applied Forestry (35(3) 2011), and is titled “Operational Forest Stream Crossings Effects on Water Quality in the Virginia Piedmont”. Water quality aspects such as total dissolved solids, pH, conductivity, temperature, and sediment concentration were analysed from samples collected below and above the crossing site.
The different stream crossings analysed were portable bridges, culverts backfilled with poles, culverts backfilled with earth, and reinforced fords. Analysis of the stream crossings took place before installation, after installation, during harvesting and after road closure. Significant differences between crossings were observed for temperature, total dissolved solids, pH and conductivity. Even though the bridge was the better stream crossing type considering water quality, aspects such as roads standards and crossing approaches played important roles. Culverts had the highest erosion potential, and the water quality of all crossings was most negatively influenced during installing and harvesting.
Water quality could be improved by applying good management practices during harvesting; as opposed to leaving the crossing until the road was closed. All crossings are site specific in their affect on water quality, and appropriate management actions should be taken accordingly. The conclusion of the article effectively summarises the five major conclusions found. Please access the publication for a more complete account of the research.
Source:http://saf.publisher.ingentaconnect.com/content/saf/sjaf/2011/00000035/00000003;jsessionid=90mta01c6a5tr.alice