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A LITERATURE SEARCH TO DETERMINE THE BASE-LINE CONDITIONS AND EFFECTS OF POLLUTION ON THE BIG WOOD RIVER AND MAGIC RESERVOIR, IDAHO. 1977
Description:
This report examines existing information concerning the ecology of Magic Reservoir and Big Wood River, Idaho (17040219) to determine the background conditions and effects of pollution on these ecosystems. The area is a popular attraction for outdoor recreationists, which has stimulated considerable population growth and land development within the drainage basin. These pressures, coupled with agriculture, have resulted in environmental disturbances to the Big Wood River and Magic Reservoir. The most noticeable effects have been thought to come from sewage treatment plant effluents, but a number of other factors also may be involved. The purpose of this review is to examine the results of studies done in the past 10 years to determine the adequacy of existing data to offer a base-line description, significant natural or man-made pollution sources and their biological, chemical, or physical implications, and the effect of the Big Wood River on Magic Reservoir. The report found baseline information for Magic Reservoir is limited. Additional information is needed to establish whether the present eutrophic condition in Magic Reservoir is detrimental to fish, recreational activities, or downstream uses of the water. Information is also needed to determine the rate at which the reservoir is progressing to an undesirable state. Although a considerable amount of ecologically-related work has been initiated on the Big Wood River over the past few years, the studies lack coordination and continuity and hence can be considered to be of only preliminary or cursory value. A rigorous investigation of the river extending over at least 3 years would be required to provide a sound basis for management of the stream and its watershed. Minshall, G.W. 1977. Army Corps of Engineers, Walla Walla District. 24 pp.