Coldwater Creek IA 02-SHL-789

Assessment Comments

Assessment is based on results of DNR biocriteria monitoring in July 1996: Fish IBI=34 (fair); BM-IBI=81 (excellent).

Basis for Assessment

Used results of the 1992 DNR stream use assessment, and the 1996 DNR biocriteria sampling to continue to assess support of the Class B(LR) aquatic life uses as FST.   The 1996 biocriteria sampling showed a moderately diverse fish community with most (7 of 11) of the expected fish taxa present.   No violations of Class B(LR) water quality criteria occurred in the sample collected during biocriteria sampling.  A review of the field sheet from the July 1992 DNR stream use assessment in Butler County shows (1) a moderately diverse fish community (11 species from 4 families), (2) presence of a majority of the expected fish taxa (8 of 11) for streams in the Iowan Surface subecoregion, and (3) indications of above average habitat with only isolated areas of channel alterations due to pasturing and isolated areas of streambank erosion.  Although most of the expected fish taxa were present, relatively few individuals per species were present.   Results of the 1996 biocriteria sampling, however, show relatively good numbers of individuals per species.