Chesapeake​ Stream Team

The USGS and Virginia Tech are determining if and how the implementation of conservation practices, such as best management practices (BMPs), in watersheds have improved the health of Chesapeake nontidal streams. Our goal is to identify the effects of BMPs and land-use on stream ecosystems by linking upstream landscape change to stream physical habitat, water quality, flow and temperature, and macroinvertebrate and fish responses. We are also determining the specific sources of stress to streams and fish populations to help identify which management practices are most likely to improve stream health. Each year from 2021 to 2024 we study a different Chesapeake landscape setting that is a focus area for stakeholders to implement management [...]