Dr. Benjamin R. Hayes, director of Watershed Sciences and Engineering at Bucknell University, presented on the effects of industrialization and catastrophic floods on North-Central Pennsylvania’s streams at a Trout Unlimited meeting. He emphasized the challenges of restoring damaged waterways, which have been adversely affected by historical logging practices and various floods, including the significant impact from Tropical Storm Lee in 2011. Hayes noted that these events cause streams to alter their courses and disrupt natural sediment delivery, leading to a “phase of disequilibrium.” He warned that stream remediation efforts, such as dredging, often have unintended consequences, including downstream flooding and impacts on aquatic life. Hayes highlighted the need for meaningful conversations and education around stream management and called for greater awareness among local lawmakers to improve stream habitats for wildlife.
Source link
Watershed Specialist Discusses Stream Restoration Challenges in the Area
By Terrain News
