West Branch 102 River New Market

Sites that score between 26 - 50 are considered fair. Fish abundance ranges from lower than average to very abundant. If fish are abundant, tolerant species are usually dominant. Native fish species usually equal ten or more species. The three most abundant species typically comprise two-thirds or more of the total number of fish. One or more sensitive species, long-lived fish species or benthic habitat specialists such as suckers (Catostomidae) are present. Top carnivore species are often, but not always present in low abundance. Species that are able to utilize a wide range of food items including plant, animal and detritus are usually more common than specialized feeders, such as benthic invertivore fish. Species that require silt-free, rock substrate for spawning or feeding are typically rare or absent. Fish condition is usually good; however, elevated levels of fish exhibiting external anomalies associated with disease or stress are not unusual.

This location has been classified as a Rejected Candidate Reference Site. This site was considered for Reference Site status, but subsequent biological assessments have determined that this site does not meet the qualifications of a Reference Site.