Habitat Characterization Study

The objectives of this study were to (1) review existing physical, chemical and biological data for a selected group of ten sites throughout the arid West where treated effluents are being discharged into normally dry streambeds or streams that would have minimal flow during part of the year in the absence of effluent discharge; (2) characterize the habitats based on established protocols and protocols adapted for arid West conditions; (3) identify similarities and differences among the ten sites; (4) recommend a system for habitat classification and (5) recommend areas for additional study.

See the Habitat Characterization Study Fact Sheet(PDF).

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PDF Files:

Cover/Table of Contents

1.0 Introduction

2.0 Project Study Areas

3.0 Stream Ecosystems

4.0 Unintended Consequences

5.0 Regulatory Systems and Tools for Consideration

6.0 Innovations

7.0 Summary

8.0 Recommendations

9.0 References

10.0 Acknowledgements

Appendices

A - Introduction to Appendices

B - Methods

C - Study Area Descriptions - Click on Study Areas on Page C-2 for further information

D - Data Analysis

E - Stream Ecosystem Model

F - Project Reference List

G - Flooding Effects

H - Ionic Strength Effects

I - Toxicity Database

J - Regulatory Touchstone

K - Water Quality Standards

L - NPDES Permits Summary

M - Historic Aquatic Species

N - Aquatic Biology Results

O - Historic Terrestrial Species

P - Historic Aerial Photos - Click on figure numbers to display aerials

Q - Terrestrial Habitat Characterization

R - Historic Chemical Data

The Habitat Characterization Study Final Report is available on a CD from the AWWQRP Office. Please e-mail your request to: wqrp@wwm.pima.gov