WVU Research May Help Improve Trout Stream Quality
Charleston Gazette
30 March 2011
By The Associated Press
MORGANTOWN, W.Va. -- West Virginia University scientists will work with
the state Division of Natural Resources to study brook trout
populations and improve water quality in streams.
Researcher Paul Kinder says habitats have been damaged over the years
by clear-cutting of timber, railroad construction and acid
precipitation.
WVU's past research creates a foundation for the new work. Other
projects helped lead to routine use of limestone to stabilize pH and
mitigate acid mine drainage.
Brook trout need deep, cold water and paths they can travel when
spawning. The team will try to help with construction projects and tree
plantings. If their projects work, they could be replicated statewide.
Initial sites include Shaver's Fork and Lamothe Hollow on the edge of
the Monongahela National Forest.
A $1.3 million DNR grant is funding the work.