Final Data Report: Temporal Changes in the Ecological Condition of Non-Tidal Streams in Upper Pocomoke and Western Branch Watersheds.

摘要

Temporal changes in the ecological condition of non-tidal streams within Upper Pocomoke and Western Branch watersheds were examined using data collected as part of the Maryland Biological Stream Survey (MBSS) from 1994 to 2001. Significant differences were found in six chemical, physical, and biological parameters among sampling rounds within each of the watersheds. These significant differences were examined along with differences in sample site distribution and precipitation between Round 1 and Round 2 of the MBSS. To more conclusively ascertain whether or not changes are occurring in the ecological condition of streams and identifying probable causes of these changes requires a longer time series of data and updated land use information. In addition, the establishment of stationary sample sites may reveal annual variability in parameters for each of the study watersheds.