Title
Evaluating Land Use Impacts on Little Bitterroot Lake Using Biomonitors
Abstract
Although research suggests that Little Bitterroot Lake has some of the best water quality in the Flathead Valley, its quality is deteriorating due to increased development. This study analyzed aquatic macroinvertebrate communities to evaluate the impact of land use on lake condition. I hypothesized that macroinvertebrates more tolerant to pollution would be found in the more developed East Bay compared to the less developed South Bay.
On November 13, 1999, I sampled both sites for macroinvertebrates and water quality – including: temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, nitrates, phosphates, alkalinity, turbidity, and E. coli (a bacteria associated with sewage). Macroinvertebrates were collected on artificial substrates. I found that mayflies and tubiflex worms were absent from the South Site, while amphipods were uncommon at the East Site. Of the water quality parameters, only alkalinity was found to be significantly different at the two sites.
Start Date
14-4-2000 12:00 AM
End Date
14-4-2000 12:00 AM
Document Type
Poster
Evaluating Land Use Impacts on Little Bitterroot Lake Using Biomonitors
Although research suggests that Little Bitterroot Lake has some of the best water quality in the Flathead Valley, its quality is deteriorating due to increased development. This study analyzed aquatic macroinvertebrate communities to evaluate the impact of land use on lake condition. I hypothesized that macroinvertebrates more tolerant to pollution would be found in the more developed East Bay compared to the less developed South Bay.
On November 13, 1999, I sampled both sites for macroinvertebrates and water quality – including: temperature, dissolved oxygen, pH, nitrates, phosphates, alkalinity, turbidity, and E. coli (a bacteria associated with sewage). Macroinvertebrates were collected on artificial substrates. I found that mayflies and tubiflex worms were absent from the South Site, while amphipods were uncommon at the East Site. Of the water quality parameters, only alkalinity was found to be significantly different at the two sites.