Indian Creek IA 02-CED-504

Assessment Comments

Stream use assessment in Linn County.

Basis for Assessment

Used a review of the field sheet from the September 1991 DNR stream use assessment in Linn County to continue to assess support of the Class B(LR) aquatic life uses as FST due to results of the 1996 survey by the DNR Fisheries Bureau that shows a diverse fish community and high quality habitats in Indian Creek.   Results of sampling of the fish community for the 1991 DNR stream use assessment are inconclusive due to problems with seining over rocky substrates (e.g., nearly twice the number of species were captured in the general use area as in the reach designated for Class B(LR) uses).   The only significant impact to the physical characterisitics of this reach in the 1991 stream use assessment was channel straightening in the Cedar Rapids/Marion urban area.   The water quality of Indian and Otter creeks in Linn County is a focus of the Partners for Urban and Rural Environment (PURE) Water Quality Project sponsored by the Linn County Soil and Water Conservation District.   This project involves a variety of educational activities, demonstration projects, and assistance for implementation of nonpoint source best management practices in these watersheds.   Planned activites include biological stream monitoring, streambank stabilization, and riparian buffers.   For more information on this project, call the Linn County Soil & Water Conservation District at 319/377-5960.