Chequest Creek IA 04-LDM-1030

Assessment Comments

Assessment remains based on results of IDNR/UHL biological (biocriteria) monitoring in 1997: Fish IBI=46(fair), BM-IBI=75(good).

Basis for Assessment

SUMMARY:  The Class B(LR) aquatic life uses remain assessed (monitored) as "fully supported" based on results of biological monitoring conducted as part of the IDNR/UHL stream biocriteria project.   These data are less than five years old and, according to IDNR's methodology for Section 305(b) assessments, are thus appropriate for characterizing current water quality conditions.

EXPLANATION:  The Class B(LR) aquatic life uses remain assessed as "fully supported" based on results of IDNR/UHL biological monitoring conducted on this stream segment in 1997.   The following is taken from the assessment developed for the 2000 reporting cycle:  The F-IBI score was 46(fair), and the BM-IBI score was 75(good).   The aquatic life use support status was assessed as fully supporting (=FS), based on a comparison of the F-IBI and BM-IBI scores with biological assessment criteria established specifically for the 2000 Section 305b report (IDNR 2000).   The biological assessment criteria were determined from a statistical analysis of data collected at stream ecoregion reference sites from 1994-1998.