Assessment Comments
Assessment based on 2000-2004 biocriteria data collected for a special Walnut Creek Study: FIBI = 33 (fair), 36 (fair), 40 (fair), 34 (fair), 22 (poor). 2000-2004 FIBI average = 33. FIBI BIC = 36.
Basis for Assessment
SUMMARY: This evaluated biological assessment was based on data collected from 2000-2004 as part of the special DNR/UHL Walnut Creek stream study project. A series of biological metrics that reflect stream water quality were calculated from the biocriteria sampling data. The biological metrics are based on the numbers and types of fish species collected in the stream sampling reach. The biological metrics were combined to make a fish community index of biotic integrity (FIBI). The index ranks the biological integrity of a stream sampling reach on a rising scale from 0 (minimum) to 100 (maximum). The 2000-2005 FIBI scores were 33 (fair), 36 (fair),40 (fair), 34 (fair), 22 (poor). 2000-2004 FIBI average = 33. The aquatic life use support was assessed (evaluated) as Partially Supporting (= PS), based on a comparison of the FIBI score with biological impairment criteria (BIC) established from a statistical analysis of data collected at stream ecoregion reference sites from 1994-2004. The FIBI BIC for this ecoregion is 36. Even though this site failed to meet the FIBI BIC, it is uncertain as to whether or not this segment is meeting the aquatic life criteria because it is a small general use stream and doesn’t fall in the calibrated watershed size.
