WWRC 88-27
Evaluation of Trout Habitat Formation due to Flow Enhancement in a Previously Ephemeral Stream
Abstract
As part of mitigation efforts for impacts of Cheyenne,
Wyoming's Stage II transbasin water diversion project, the South
Fork of Middle Crow Creek (SFMCC), a previously ephemeral stream
is being used to convey water and create fish habitat. After two
years of enhanced flow the amount of stream channel has increased
31% while beaver pond habitat has more than doubled. Brook trout
have been stocked into the beaver ponds and provide some fishing
opportunity. Limiting factors in the system include interrupted
flow, discontinuous channels, and summer water temperatures in
excess of 75ø F. Analysis using the Physical Habitat Simulation
System indicates that a flow of 2.5 cubic feet per second would
maximize the amount of brook trout habitat in the SFMCC under
present channel conditions.
88-27 Table of Contents
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