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Monday, June 4, 2007 - 6:30 PM
75
Science to Inform Policy on Protection of Headwater Streams
Ken Fritz, Office of Research and Development, National Exposure Research Laboratory, U.S. Environmental Protection Agency, 26 West Martin Luther King Drive, Mailstop 642, Cincinnati, OH 45268
Recent court cases concerning the definition of jurisdictional waters under the Clean Water Act have illuminated a need to better understand characteristics and functions of headwater streams (and associated riparian and wetland habitats). Research is needed to better quantify 1.) spatial extent of channels and associated hydrologic connectivity; 2.) cumulative influence of various headwater classes on downstream water quality, and 3.) critical characteristics and functions for protection and restoration. Large-scale, high resolution maps are needed to recognize channels from surrounding landforms. Because these water bodies are widespread and abundant, a robust classification system that reflects the variation seen across spatial and temporal scales is needed for broad and local decisions. In order to identify significant nexus, research tools are needed that quantify the aggregate influence of individual headwater stream classes on water quality of downstream waterbodies. Studies must move beyond measuring pattern and process within the stream reach and toward the functional role of stream reaches within the whole network. In response to these needs, USEPA’s Office of Research and Development has developed a research framework. Among the ongoing research, we have begun developing maps, spatially explicit models, and indicators that best characterize the hydrologic permanence of headwater streams.
Web Page: www.epa.gov/eerd/InterStreams.htm
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