Stream Evaluation: Physical Characteristics (CQHEI)

Describe TWO differences between a "healthy" stream and an "unhealthy" stream.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-1

NGSS.MS-LS2-2

NGSS.MS-LS2-3

What length of stream section should you consider in your evaluation?

• 100 ft.

• 200 ft.

• 300 ft.

• 400 ft.

• 500 ft.

What is the first step in using the CQHEI to evaluate the physical parameters of a stream?

• Draw a map

• Look for fish

• Kick the substrate on the bottom of the stream

• Measure the depth of the stream

"Substrate size" describe what?

• The stuff on the bottom of the stream

• The height of the plants growing on the bank

• The width of the stream at its widest point

• The speed at which the water flows

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS1-5

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

"Smothering" refers to what?

• The rocks on the bottom of the stream are buried and difficult to pick up.

• There are too many plants on the edge of the stream.

• The water is flowing too fast and can't dissolve oxygen from the air.

• Harmful chemicals have been washed into the water.

How can you test for "silting" in a stream?

• Kick the bottom to see if the water gets cloudy for a long time.

• Use a chemical test that measures the amount of silt in the water.

• Look for fish that have been deformed by silt.

• Count the number of bends in the stream.

List three types of fish cover you will look for at the stream.

When considering the shape of the stream, which of these is true?

• More bends/curves indicates a healthier habitat.

• Fewer bends/curves indicates a healthier habitat.

Tags

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

Describe TWO types of man-made changes you might see when evaluating a stream.

Tags

NGSS.MS-ESS3-4

NGSS.MS-LS2-4

The "riparian area" describes the what?

• Width of the area where woody plants are growing next to the stream

• Width of the area where grassy plants are growing next to the stream

• Length of the sidewalk that runs next to the stream

• Length of the fence that runs next to the stream