Linking Stream Geomorphology, Watershed Condition and Aquatic Ecosystem Health

Twenty-five streams in northwestern Vermont spanning a range of geomorphic conditions were surveyed to determine the linkages between stream geomorphology, watershed condition and aquatic ecosystem health as part of an overall watershed classification project. Both field scale and watershed scale assessments were completed. At the field level, rapid geomorphic assessments (RGA) and rapid habitat assessments (RHA) were completed for all sites following Vermont Department of Environmental Conservation protocols. Detailed geomorphic and habitat assessments were also completed to provide quantitative data for each site. Watershed-scale parameters were evaluated using a geographic information system (GIS) and the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) watershed modeling software. At the field-scale, data were assessed for relationships between the RGA and water quality, habitat quality and biodiversity. At the watershed-scale, we saw a broad trend relating RGA with average annual runoff, but the result was not significant. No trend was seen for annual average sediment loading. These results provide evidence that rapid geomorphic and habitat assessments done by trained individuals can provide useful information in managing and prioritizing watersheds and stream reaches for protection and restoration.