Assessment Comments

Assessment is based on results of IDNR monthly ambient monitoring 4 mi N of Indianola.

Basis for Assessment

Reviewed assessment developed in 1992 and used for 1994 report.   Only one of the DNR fish surveys from Oct 1990 was conducted in this reach (18 spp; 7 families).  In addition, Harlan et al.  (1987: 12) note that the entire lower reach of the Middle River has been channelized and offers poorer fishing than the naturally meandering reaches upstream.  Thus, for 1996 report, change assessment of support of the Class B(WW) aquatic life uses from FST to PS for reasons stated above.   The October 1990 DNR fish survey showed good diversity of fish species, including channel catfish.   The best aquatic habitats were pools at snags.   Field notes for this survey note considerable re-meandering in the channel.   Existence of mature trees in the riparian corridor of this reach of the Middle River is imporant for both bank stability and for contributions of woody debris that forms snags.