|
Functions
& Conditions -
Evaluating the Physical Features
Amount
of fine materials on the channel bottom
|
Figure
2-15
A thick layer of fine sediments on the stream bottom
may be symptomatic of a sediment/water imbalance in
the system. |
|
A properly functioning
stream should, generally, be able to move fine sediments through
the system. The presence of fine sediments (silts, clays and decomposing
organic material) on the channel bottom (see Figure 2-15) may be
an indication that not enough water is running through the system
or that there is too much sediment entering the stream. This is
especially the case when sediments remain in place through one or
more high flow events. Fine sediments cover fish spawning areas
as well as change the composition of macro-invertebrates (bugs)
in the stream, which also affects fish populations.
|