Boone River IA 04-UDM-1257

Assessment Comments

Assessment based on 2003 REMAP data: FIBI = 32 (fair). Non-riffle FIBI BIC = 32 .

Basis for Assessment

The assessment was based on data collected in 2003 as part of the DNR/UHL stream REMAP project.   A series of biological metrics which reflect stream water quality and habitat integrity 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 indexes rank the biological integrity of a stream sampling reach on a rising scale from 0 (minimum) to 100 (maximum).   The 2003 FIBI score was 32 (fair).  The aquatic life use support was assessed (evaluated) as fully supporting (= FS), based on a comparison of the FIBI score with biological impairment criteria (BIC) established for previous Section 305(b) reports.  The biological impairment criteria were determined from a statistical analysis of data collected at stream ecoregion reference sites from 1994-2004.   The non-riffle FIBI BIC for this ecoregion is 32.