Progress 07/01/04 to 09/30/09
Outputs
OUTPUTS: The project was associated with research and extension initiatives funded by the Ohio DNR, The Nature Conservancy); the Ohio Water Development Authority; the U.S. EPA; and the Ohio EPA. Several workshops and field days have been held in a tri-state region (Indiana, Michigan, Ohio) and the results have been disseminated through scientific papers, fact sheets, reports, a website, and videos. In 2008, we assisted with organizing and hosting the 16th National Nonpoint Source Monitoring Workshop. In 2009, we assisted The Nature Conservancy with organizing and teaching three workshops on the design and application of 2-stage agricultural drainage ditches. In 2009, we conducted a study to: (1) evaluate methods for developing relationships between discharge and recurrence interval - particularly for recurrence interval events more frequent than the 2-year; (2) to determine the bankfull properties of modified headwater channels in central Ohio; (3) determine the recurrence interval of bankfull discharges in these systems, annual flow exceedences and the potential nitrate nitrogen reductions that might occur if two-stage systems with different size benches were constructed at the bankfull elevations. Annual series of instantaneous peaks were used to develop discharge versus recurrence interval relationships and daily series were used to develop mean number of daily exceedences annually. We used USGS discharge regression equations developed for rural areas in Ohio that are incorporated in the STREAM geomorphology tools and are also incorporated in the USGS Streamstats tool for Ohio. A comparison of the gage discharge and regression equation predictions was then used to develop a calibration factor. To establish whether statistical methods for determining discharge versus recurrence interval have a significant on the results, the Weibull method, the Pearson Type III , and the Extreme Value Type I distribution were compared. Project field studies in 2009 included data collection on geomorphology, hydrology, and water chemistry at 12 sites in Ohio, Indiana, and Michigan in collaboration with Associate Professor Jen Tank at the University of Notre Dame. Six sites had a constructed 2-stage treatment reach and six sites had an upstream control reach that had not been modified to a 2-stage geometry. Data collected at each site included: in situ water chemistry variables temperature, pH, turbidity, dissolved oxygen, and specific conductivity, photosynthetic irradiance, water capacitance, 6 soil cores on the benches or top of bank, 6 jet test measurements, 2-6 borehole shear test measurements, Channel cross-sections at each borehole location, 4 infiltrometer tests to determine hydraulic conductivity, and 30 recording cone penetrometer tests. Water chemistry variables were analyzed by Notre Dame to determine denitrification potential of each site. Soil samples are to be analyzed for moisture, bulk density, particle size and organic matter content. Geomorphology data will be input into two watershed hydrology models, SWAT and HEC-RAS, to determine how constructed ditches are evolving over time. PARTICIPANTS: The following agencies sponsored some of the research or provided technical assistance: The Nature Conservancy (Joe Draper), The Ohio Department of Natural Resources (Dan Mecklenburg),USDA-ARS Soil Drainage Research Unit (Norm Fausey and Kevin King),Ohio Water Development Authority, Ohio EPA, and U.S. EPA. Several county surveyors or engineers, farmers, and other stake holders in Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio assisted with the study. Many people at The Ohio State University assisted with the project - in particular Jon Witter and Jessica D'Ambrosio. Work associated with this project was part of three doctoral dissertations (Erick Powell, Jon Witter, and Anand Jayakaran), one completed masters thesis (Sara Kallio), and two masters studies in progress (Rebecca Kallio and Danny Ketzer). Numerous undergraduate students worked on the project. TARGET AUDIENCES: Target audiences included State and Federal agency personnel, consultants, county engineers and surveyors, drain commissioners, local governments, and academia. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Not all of the hydrologic simulation modeling that was planned has been conducted. The scope of the hatch project depended on the availability of external funds from competitive grants and resulted in more field work than expected and had a greater focus on agricultural ditches. More outreach education was conducted than was envisioned. End-products will probably have a much greater impact than expected.
Impacts
Based on extensive outreach and education work done by TNC and Ohio State, and other project partners, in addition to a showcase implementation project, the state of Indiana has adopted 2-stage designs into their CREP program in late 2008. The procedure is now incorporated in the USDA-NRCS National Engineering Handbook Part 654 Stream Restoration Design and is being applied or evaluated in several states beyond Ohio, Indiana, and Michigan, such as Minnesota. We have developed an economic tool to assist with establishing cost and feasibility guidelines for incorporating the practice into CREP and EQIP federal cost-share programs. The only failed 2-stage project served as a model for the need to evaluate the threshold of success and failure of the implementation of the 2-stage channel practice. We have developed a preliminary tool for determining the nitrate-N removal benefits of 2-stage ditches. To date, work from project personnel has resulted in 19 constructed 2-stage ditch projects (4 in Ohio, 2 in Michigan, and 13 in Indiana) and 10 more projects are in the planning phases. Results of field studies are leading to development of new assessment techniques for small streams and anticipated end outcomes will have the potential to recommend new BMPs for small watersheds in agroecosystems. The results indicated that there was not a significant difference in the results obtained with the different statistical methods. We found that benches (small floodplains) are often associated with elevations and bankfull geometries that can convey about 25% of the 2-year discharge and will usually flood 10 to 50 days annually. Preliminary modeling results suggest that construction of a 2-stage channel may result in either a linear wetland or self-forming channel condition depending on a threshold of unit stream power relating to hydrology, slope, drainage area, and land use that requires further study. Nitrate-N removal, in systems with flooded width ratios of 4 to 5 times the bankfull width, might be several percent, or more, of exports from fields if the treatment area (surface of the benches and inset channel) exceed 0.5% of the watershed area. A poster and oral presentation on preliminary research findings and the evolution of 2-stage ditches have been accepted for the 2010 International Drainage Symposium in June. Conceptual designs were developed for 2 additional 2-stage stream bank projects on the mainstem of Fish Creek in IN, and technical oversight was provided during initial stages of construction in October 2009. Working with ODNR personnel, a joint presentation on the benefits of Incorporating a broader range of stream functions in assessing streams for watershed planning was given at the WMAO Meeting in November 2009. Approximately 100 attended the presentation. TNC has commissioned a well received video on 2-stage ditches entitled To Build a Better Ditch (http://www.vimeo.com/7901535). In addition to our work with agricultural systems, the work we have performed on streamway setbacks has seen application in urban settings.
Publications
- Jayakaran, Anand D., Mecklenberg, Dan E., Witter, Jonathan D., Ward, Andy D. and Powell, George E. 2009. Fluvial processes in agricultural ditches in the North Central Region of the United States and implications for their management, Chapter 9 in Matthew T. Moore and Robert Kroger (eds.), Agricultural Drainage Ditches: Mitigation Wetlands for the 21st Century. Old City Publishing, Inc. USA, p. 195-222.
- D'Ambrosio, J., Williams, L. R., Witter, J., and A. D. Ward. 2009. Effects of geomorphology, habitat, and spatial location on fish assemblages in a Midwestern watershed in Ohio. Environmental Monitoring and Assessment. 148:325-341.
- Ward, A., D'Ambrosio, J., and D. Mecklenburg. 2009. Stream Classification. The Ohio State University Extension Factsheet AEX-445-01. Columbus, Ohio.
- Ward, A., D'Ambrosio, J., Witter, J., Jayakaran, A. and D. Mecklenburg. 2009. Floodplains and Streamway Setbacks. The Ohio State University Extension Factsheet AEX-445-02. Columbus, Ohio.
- Ward, A., D'Ambrosio, J., and J. Witter. 2009. Channel-Forming Discharges. The Ohio State University Extension Factsheet AEX-445-03. Columbus, Ohio.
- Ward, A., D'Ambrosio, J., and J. Witter. 2009. Determining Discharge in a Stream. The Ohio State University Extension Factsheet AEX-445-04. Columbus, Ohio.
- Ward, A. D., A. D. Jayakaran, D. E. Mecklenburg, G. Erick Powell, J. Witter, 2008. Two-Stage Channel Geometry: Active Floodplain Requirements. Encyclopedia of Water Science 2nd Edition, Stanley Trimble (editor), Taylor & Francis, CRC Press.
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Progress 01/01/08 to 12/31/08
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Project personnel assisted with organizing and hosting the 16th National Nonpoint Source Monitoring Workshop on 9/14-18/2008, in Columbus, OH. The event included 60 technical and 10 poster presentations, 4 field trips and 5 technical workshops. About 200 people from 15 states attended. As part of the event, a workshop on the STREAMS evaluation spreadsheet tools was taught. In November, working with extension watershed educators, a web-based activity on Implementing Watershed Action Plans in Ohio was created to assist watershed managers with prioritizing projects and predicting successes. It was taught in two parts. Part 1 (13 attendees) was "Keys to Success" and Part 2 (26 attendees) was "Stream Restoration as an Implementation Strategy to Address NPS Pollution". Working with The Nature Conservancy, a one-day workshop on two-stage ditches was taught in Angola, IN (65 attendees representing local, state, and federal agencies, watershed groups, and county engineers or surveyors). Conceptual designs were developed for a two-stage stream bank project on a tributary of Fish Creek in IN and technical oversight provided during initial stages of construction. Technical advice was also provided to the Noble County surveyor for proposed two-stage ditches in Noble County, Indiana. Fact sheets developed on project and in-press are: Stream Classification; Determining Discharge in a Stream; Channel Forming Discharge; and Floodplains and Streamway Setbacks. An unexpected task that resulted from this project is that the STREAMS website (http://streams.osu.edu/) is being redone. Field studies included data collection on fish, macroinvertebrates, qualitative and quantitative in-stream habitat, geomorphology and hydrology, and water chemistry at three stream sites in Marion County, Ohio. In a second study, data were collected at 16 sites within the Upper Scioto Watershed in Ohio, and the Fish Creek Watershed in Indiana. Data collected at each site included: 6 soil cores on the benches or top of bank, 6 jet test measurements, 2-6 borehole shear test measurements, channel cross-sections at each borehole location, 4 infiltrometer tests to determine hydraulic conductivity, and 30 (5 at each soil core) cone penetrometer measurements. Soil samples are to be analyzed for moisture, bulk density, particle size and organic matter content. In a third study, data was collected for 18 sites in the Upper Scioto Watershed, which included: geomorphology surveys, fish and macroinvertebrate sampling, and in-stream habitat evaluations. Data is being analyzed to determine whether each site is failing, recovering or in equilibrium, relating morphology to regional hydrology, and conducting multivariate statistical analyses to relate biology, morphology, and landscape variables. More than 1600 fish comprising 28 species and more than 14000 macroinvertebrates comprising 136 species were obtained at 18 sites. PARTICIPANTS: Nothing significant to report during this reporting period. TARGET AUDIENCES: A broad audience with interest in water resource issues associated with modified and natural channel systems. PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: The scope of the project has been expanded and modified. Some of the modeling objectives will not be conducted as part of this project due to an unavailability of resources. Several current aspects are within an analysis and reporting phase while new aspects have just been initiated. The work is associated with six funded research and extension initiatives: Study 1: Upper Olentangy Watershed Implementation Project (Ohio DNR). Study 2: The Fish Creek two-stage ditch project (The Nature Conservancy). Study 3: A scientific investigation to better understand, evaluate, and predict in-stream processes in natural, modified, and constructed streams (Ohio Water Development Authority), Study 4: Understanding ecological processes in channelized headwater systems is a key to ecosystem protection while maintaining crop production (U.S. EPA). and (5) Geomorphology and Ecology of Stream Systems - Educational Tools and Training (Ohio EPA). For the first study a final report has just been prepared. The goal of the project was to collect baseline data on an agricultural drainage ditch that was to undergo implementation of an overwide, or self-forming design, then monitor the ditch one year post-construction and compare the alternative channel design to natural channels, ditches under traditional maintenance, and other self-forming channels constructed in urban areas in central Ohio. Data was collected at three study sites on fish, macroinvertebrates, qualitative and quantitative in-stream habitat, geomorphology and hydrology, and water chemistry. The implementation portion of the project did not occur during the project period. The second study is constructed two-stage ditches in Fish Creek and then evaluating the water quality benefits of the approach. Our involvement was to assist with sizing the ditches and to conduct extension educational activities. The third study was initiated in 2008 and will provide bed and bank shear and erodibility factors that can be used to help determine how anthropogenic land use changes influence stream and ditch morphology. The overall goal of the fourth study is to evaluate the capacity of modified headwater channel systems (i.e., agricultural drainage ditches) to sustain ecological integrity and function in landscapes with intensive agriculture. This study will be completed in 2009. The fifth study will develop interactive on-line learning modules on key topic in stream geomorphology.
Impacts
Results from the Marion County study show that the streams are in fair to poor condition and currently are not meeting the Ohio EPA Warmwater Habitat use designation. The water chemistry signatures were within normal ranges for two out of three sites studied. Preliminary results of the work with The Nature Conservancy suggest that construction of a self-forming channel could result in a more self-sustaining system overall. As a result of our work several two-stage ditches were constructed in the tri-state region(Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio), Based on extensive outreach and education work done by TNC and Ohio State, and other project partners, in addition to a showcase implementation project, the state of Indiana adopted two-stage designs into their CREP program in late 2008. The procedure is now incorporated in the USDA-NRCS National Engineering Handbook Part 654 Stream Restoration Design and is being applied in several states. Our streamway setback concepts are being adopted in both urban and rural setting at local, county and watershed scales. For example, in Noble, IN one two-stage ditch is nearly completed and two-additional ditches are being planned. Results of field studies are leading to development of new assessment techniques for small streams and anticipated end outcomes will have the potential to recommend new BMPs for small watersheds in agr-ecosystems. Funding has just been awarded by the USDA-CSREES for the following study we will conduct with Dr Jennifer Tank, graduate students, and staff at the University of Notre Dame: "Watershed scale evaluations in a Tristate Region of the water quality benefits of self-forming and two-stage channel systems." USDA-CSREES".
Publications
- D'Ambrosio, J., Williams, L. R., Witter, J., and A. D. Ward. 2008. Effects of geomorphology, habitat, and spatial location on fish assemblages in a Midwestern watershed in Ohio. Environmental Monitoring and Assessment. 148:325-341 (Online publication since February 6, 2008 and a hardcopy publication January 2009).
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Progress 01/01/07 to 12/31/07
Outputs
OUTPUTS: Thus far, objectives addressed were: (A) to evaluate how fluvial processes influence the recovery and geomorphology of incised agricultural channels; (B) Evaluate the ability of biogeochemical processes operating in agricultural drainage ditches to reduce nitrate loads, and the influence of different land management practices; and (C) to evaluate how aquatic biota and ecological processes are related to fluvial features and processes. Site selection, macroinvertebrate data collection and initial stream geomorphology surveys were conducted in the upper Olentangy watershed. Sites were characterized roughly into three groups: (1) agricultural ditches with no trees in the riparian area; (2) agricultural ditches with forested riparian zones; and (3) control conditions, defined as having a relatively unaltered channel with a forested riparian buffer. For agricultural ditch sites, we chose sites with and without natural benches. We chose thirteen sites for the original assessment.
For sites classified as "control", the average qualitative habitat evaluation index (QHEI) score was 81.25 and Index of Biological Integrity (IBI) was 38. Obvious from the data is that QHEI scores are higher in the control sites. The lowest QHEI scores were in ditches with recent cleanout, regardless of whether they had trees in the riparian zone. There was a correlation coefficient (r) of 0.56 between QHEI and IBI scores, but there were a number of notable outliers. In 2007, we used GIS to select some random sites. This was accomplished by numbering all crossings within the upper Olentangy watershed. We then used a random number generator to select candidate sites. Our criteria were that sites had to be larger than 1 mi2 and smaller than 10 mi2 in drainage area. From there, we scouted sites and sampled where we could obtain access and permission. All sites were located on private land, with only a few exceptions. We selected a total of 17 sites to sample to complement our 13 sites
chosen in 2006, for a total of 30. Geomorphology and macroinvertebrate data also were collected in 2007. Macroinvertebrate identifications are ongoing as are additional data analyses. ISCO samples were deployed on two ditches and high flow event data has been collected for a period of two years. The focus is on sediment and nutrients and one more year of data will probably be obtained. Assistance has been provided to the sizing, construction and/or monitoring of two-stage channels in Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio. While most headwater streams had been channelized as a result of agricultural land uses, large populations of fishes like darters, that prefer high quality habitats, were still present at sites that had particular fluvial features like benches and appropriately sized substrate. Canonical Correspondence Analysis and variance partitioning were used to relate environmental variables to fish species abundance and assemblage attributes. Fish assemblages and abundances were
explained best by stream size, gradient, substrate size and quality, and percent wooded riparian zone. Thus far the modeling objective has not been addressed.
PARTICIPANTS: This work has been performed in collaboration with and/or with support from: U.S. EPA; Ohio EPA; Ohio Department of Natural Resources, Heidelberg College; USDA-ARS; and many private stakeholders. Seven undergraduate students and three graduate students or post doctoral researcher from two academic units have assisted with this project.
TARGET AUDIENCES: State and Federal Agency personnel, academia, environmental groups, and stakeholders (primarily farmers).
PROJECT MODIFICATIONS: Thus far we have not had an opportunity to conduct any of the computer simulation modeling. The project encompasses many aspects and data collection has primarily been a function of specific grants that have been acquired to aid in meeting the objectives of this unfunded Hatch Project.
Impacts
We are sampling geomorphological and ecological data at multiple spatial scales. One important question we address is, at what spatial scale can landuse be meaningfully linked to stream water quality in the TMDL process? Often, TMDL studies produce "science-relevant" instead of "decision-relevant" data, which limits their usefulness to make land management decisions. TMDL studies usually lack adequate consideration of instream processes that can have a significant influence on water quality. Research can lead to better identification of factors to consider in TMDL studies and how to do these studies. Outcomes from this agricultural ditch research has the potential to reduce maintenance needs and to help reduce nutrient loadings to rivers and receiving water resources. The results suggest that more quantifiable variables and consideration of spatial location of a stream reach within a watershed system should incorporate standard data into stream monitoring programs to
identify impairments that, while biologically limiting, are not fully captured or elucidated using current bioassessment methods. This research is developing new assessment techniques for small streams which will have the potential to recommend new BMPs for small watersheds in agroecosystems. Results have led to several two-stage channel modifications being implemented and streamway setback concepts being adopted throughout the nation. Some of these concepts have been included in the recently published USDA-NRCS National Engineering Handbook Part 654 Stream Restoration Design.
Publications
- Powell, G.E., A.D. Ward, D.E. Mecklenburg, A.D. Jayakaran. 2007. Two-stage channel systems Part 1: A practical approach for sizing agricultural ditches. Journal of Soil and Water Conservation, Vol. 62(4):277-286.
- Powell, G.E., A.D. Ward, D.E. Mecklenburg, J. Draper and W. Word. 2007. Two-stage channel systems Part 2: Case Studies. Journal of Soil and Water Conservation, Vol. 62(4):287-295.
- Jayakaran, A. D. and A.D. Ward. 2007. Geometry of Inset Channels and the sediment Composition of Fluvial Benches in Agricultural Drainage Systems in Ohio Journal of Soil and Water Conservation, Vol. 62(4):296-307.
- USDA-NRCS National Engineering Handbook Part 654 Stream Restoration Design. 2007. Chapter 10: Two-Stage Channel Design; Technical Supplement 14S: Sizing Stream Setbacks to Help Maintain Stream. Obtain a CD from Landcare: Stability. http://landcare.nrcs.usda.gov/product.asp?ID=751
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Progress 01/01/06 to 12/31/06
Outputs
In 2006, several graduate students completed their programs. Objectives addressed were: (A) to evaluate how fluvial processes influence the recovery and geomorphology of incised agricultural channels; (B) evaluate the frequency and volume of out-of-bank flow in a small stream system; (C) Evaluate the ability of biogeochemical processes operating in agricultural drainage ditches to reduce nitrate loads, and the influence of different land management practices; and (D) to evaluate how aquatic biota and ecological processes are related to fluvial features and processes. Objective (A): Interpretation of digital orthophotos of Mercer County, Ohio, identified that 59% of the assessed channels showed some degree of inset channel development and bench formation. A study of these systems showed that, for bankfull discharges in the inset channels, a simple linear regression function explained 84% of the variation in D84 with the particle size at incipient motion. All benches
showed fining with distance away from the channel. Elevation of the benches was associated with discharge events with recurrence intervals of 0.3 years to 0.5 years at 11 of the 13 sites. An approach has been developed for sizing a two-stage channel system. The approach considers the magnitude and design frequency of discharges for both stages of the channel. Assistance has been provided to the sizing, construction and/or monitoring of two-stage channels in Indiana, Michigan, and Ohio. Objective B: A study was conducted on a tributary of Upper Big Walnut Creek. Flows exceeding the channel-forming discharge occurred 1 to18 times annually at different locations. This represented 0.2 to 5 percent of the time and 0.4 to 13 percent of the annual discharge. Recurrence interval of the channel-forming discharge was 0.2 to 1.8 years - a result that is consistent with other studies by the authors on small streams, ditches, and large rivers. Objective C: Naturally built and constructed two-stage
channels were evaluated for water quality improvements during the 2004 and 2005 growing seasons at several locations in Ohio and Michigan. All two-stage channel sites were significantly different than the trapezoidal channel. However, there was not always an improvement in water quality between upstream and downstream samplers in a ditch. In 2006, data were obtained at two of these locations by external organizations. Analysis of this data by the OSU project team has not yet been conducted. Objective D: While most headwater streams had been channelized as a result of agricultural land uses, large populations of fishes like darters, that prefer high quality habitats, were still present at sites that had particular fluvial features like benches and appropriately sized substrate. Forested riparian zones did not always correlate well with high quality fish assemblages. This indicates that recruitment and movement between "good" and "poor" areas play an important role throughout the
watershed. Preliminary statistical analyses indicated that geomorphology was the most important factor affecting fish populations in the watershed, followed by habitat and spatial location.
Impacts
We are sampling geomorphological and ecological data at multiple spatial scales. One important question we address is, at what spatial scale can landuse be meaningfully linked to stream water quality in the TMDL process? Often, TMDL studies produce "science-relevant" instead of "decision-relevant" data, which limits their usefulness to make land management decisions. TMDL studies usually lack adequate consideration of instream processes that can have a significant influence on water quality. Research can lead to better identification of factors to consider in TMDL studies and how to do these studies. Outcomes from the agricultural ditch research have the potential to reduce maintenance needs and to help reduce nutrient loadings to rivers and receiving water resources. Our study on channel-forming discharges identifies the need for detailed regional studies of geomorphology, specifically where there are land use changes or proposed stream protection, modification and
restoration projects. From our studies of biology in headwater streams, we are developing new assessment techniques for small streams and will have the potential to recommend new BMPs for small watersheds in agroecosystems. Results have led to several two-stage channel modifications being implemented and streamway setback concepts being adopted throughout the nation.
Publications
- Powell E, Draper J, Ward A. 2006. Crommer Ditch: A collaborative evaluation of an alternative drainage channel design in the Midwest. Abstract in Proceedings of Soil and Water Conservation Society Annual Conference, Keystone, Colorado, July 22-26.
- Powell E, Ward A, Jayakaran A. 2006. Nutrient Loads in Ohio Headwater Streams. Abstract in Proceedings National Water Conference Proceedings USDA-CSREES, San Antonio, TX, February 5-9.
- Ward A, Powell E, Jayakaran A, Witter J, DAmbrosio J, Williams L. 2006. Why small floodplains called benches sometimes build in agricultural drainage ditches and are they beneficial? Abstract in Proceedings of Symposium: Improved Management of Agricultural Drainage Ditches for Water Quality Protection, University of Maryland and USDA-ARS, College Park, MD, August 22-23.
- Williams, L.R., M.L. Warren Jr., S.B. Adams, J.L. Arvai, and C.M. Taylor. 2004. Basin visual estimation technique (BVET) and representative reach approaches to wadeable stream surveys: methodological limitations and future directions. Fisheries 29(8):12-22.
- Williams, L.R., M.G. Williams, J.L. DAmbrosio, J.D. Witter, and A. Ward. 2006. The role of fish in headwater stream quality monitoring programs: local and landscape perspectives. Water Management Association of Ohio Conference, Columbus, Ohio. November 15
- Williams, L.R. 2006. Stream biota and the management of riparian zones. Ohio Soil and Water Conference, Columbus, Ohio. September 7
- Williams, L.R., M.G. Williams, J.L. DAmbrosio, J.D. Witter, and M.A. Schrecengost. 2006. Landscape perspectives on biological monitoring in headwater streams. Annual Meeting of the American Fisheries Society, Lake Placid, New York. September 11
- Draper J, Ward A, and Powell E. 2006. Crommer Ditch: A collaborative evaluation of an alternative drainage channel design in the Midwest. Proceedings of Nonpoint Source Pollution Conference, Rivers Institute at Hanover College, Indianapolis, Indiana, November 28-30.
- Jayakaran, A. 2006. The Formation of Benches in Agricultural Channels in Ohio. Ph.D. Dissertation, the Graduate School, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
- Powell, E. 2006. Examination, Application, and Evaluation of Geomorphic Principles and Resulting Water Quality in Midwest Agricultural Streams and Rivers. Ph.D. Dissertation, the Graduate School, The Ohio State University, Columbus, OH, USA.
- Powell G. E., D. Mecklenburg, A. Ward 2006. Evaluating Channel-Forming Discharges: A Study of Large Rivers in Ohio. Transactionsof the ASABE, Vol. 49(1): 35−46.
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Progress 01/01/05 to 12/31/05
Outputs
Objectives addressed were: (A) to evaluate how aquatic biota and ecological processes are related to fluvial features and processes; (B) Evaluate the ability of biogeochemical processes operating in agricultural drainage ditches to reduce nitrate loads, and the influence of different land management practices (i.e., retaining/incorporating fluvial features such as low benches); and (C) Evaluate channel-forming discharges in the Midwest United States. (A) In 2005, we completed a TMDL study for the Olentangy River Watershed. The scope of work of this study included: a field level land use reconnaissance to identify reference sites and potential problem/pollution sites in the watershed; development of a regional curve based on channel geomorphology data obtained on 84 sites within the watershed; statistical analysis of the data to study the relationship of environmental factors on aquatic biota; and (4) SWAT model results that included nearly 30 different land management
scenarios. Many of the streams that were surveyed in the watershed exhibited some form of incision or disconnect from their floodplains. Modeling results showed that water quality improvements could be made by implementing best management practices on the landscape such as conservation tillage and buffer strips. While most headwater streams had been channelized into ditches, large assemblages of fishes like darters, that prefer high quality habitats, were still present. This indicates that recruitment and movement between good and bad areas play an important role throughout the watershed. Preliminary statistical analyses indicated that geomorphology was the most important factor affecting fish populations in the watershed, followed by habitat and spatial location. This result is important as geomorphology is generally not considered in current TMDL studies. (B) ISCO automatic samplers took flow proportioned composite samples in five watersheds in Ohio and Michigan. Agricultural
drainage ditches with two-stage geometry resulted in the following reduction of nutrient levels: NO3 (-10%), SRP (-9%), TP (-29%), TKN (-33%), and SS (-29%). These results are significantly different than measured increases in water quality parameters in a single stage ditch. Ditch and fluvial channel form were evaluated at eight sites with stable features and ten sites with unstable fluvial features. A logistic regression model analysis correctly classified 16 out of 18 sites as having stable or unstable fluvial features. The knowledge resulting from this study will be useful in improving maintenance practices and the design of ditches. Objective C: Data was collected on large rivers in Ohio to compare the measured bankfull discharge to the calculated effective discharge. There was good agreement between the effective discharge and bankfull discharge estimates. The recurrence intervals of these flows in Ohio are more frequent than generally reported in the literature. Several
workshops were conducted in 2005, two in Ohio and two in Michigan, focusing on fluvial geomorphology and aquatic ecology to workshop participants.
Impacts
Objective A: One important question we address was, at what spatial scale can landuse be meaningfully linked to stream water quality in the TMDL process? Assumptions are made in most TMDL studies that existing data from Ohio EPA or other agencies have been collected at the appropriate scale. In many cases, TMDL studies produce science-relevant data sets instead of decision-relevant ones, which limits their usefulness to make land management decisions. TMDL studies usually lack adequate consideration of instream processes that can have a significant influence on water quality. Therefore, our research might lead to better methods on what should be considered and how to do this. Objective B: Outcomes from the agricultural ditch research have the potential to reduce maintenance needs and to help reduce nutrient loadings to rivers. The study will provide new knowledge on the potential of agricultural ditches to reduce nitrogen loadings to receiving water resources. We are
already presenting our results to drainage network managers, agency personnel, policy makers, engineers, and the scientific community. Results are being disseminated through fact sheets, a website, refereed journal articles, workshops, and presentations at local, state and national meetings. Several two-stage ditches have been constructed and we are aware of others that are planned. Objective C: Data collected and analyzed on bankfull and effective discharges illustrate the need for detailed regional studies of geomorphology, specifically as it applies to stream design and restoration projects.
Publications
- Jayakaran, A., D. Mecklenburg, A. Ward, L. Brown, and A. Weekes. 2005. Formation of fluvial benches in headwater channels in the Midwestern region of the USA. International Agricultural Engineering Journal 14(4) In Press.
- Powell, G.E., D. Mecklenburg, and A. Ward. 2006. Evaluating channel-forming discharges: a study of large rivers in Ohio. Transactions of the ASABE 49(1) In Press.
- Ward, A. J. Witter, J. DAmbrosio, L. Williams, and K. King. 2005. Olentangy River Watershed Total Maximum Daily Load Study. Ohio EPA. Columbus, Ohio.
- Williams, L.R., M.A. Schrecengost, D.K. Hersha, and M.G. Williams. 2005. Biological monitoring of headwater streams: lessons from Ohio and future directions. Midwest Fish and Wildlife Conference, Grand Rapids, Michigan.
- Williams, L.R., 2005. Disturbances, extreme events, and the structure of stream communities. Water Management Association of Ohio Annual Meeting, Columbus, Ohio.
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Progress 01/01/04 to 12/31/04
Outputs
Objectives addressed in the first year of the study were: (A) to evaluate how aquatic biota and ecological processes are related to fluvial features and processes; and (B) Evaluate the ability of biogeochemical processes operating in agricultural drainage ditches to reduce nitrate loads, and the influence of different land management practices (i.e., retaining/incorporating fluvial features such as low benches; and manipulation of tile drainage to increase average residence time in ditches). Objective A: In the Olentangy River watershed, as part of a TMDL study, the following work was performed: (1) a field level land use reconnaissance to identify reference sites and potential problem/pollution sites; (2) channel geomorphology data was obtained on 61 sites; and (3) detailed data collection on 26 sites in two subwatersheds that included backpack electro-shocking to measure fish assemblages, determining QHEI scores, and making detailed stream geomorphology
measurements. Surprisingly, large assemblages of fish like rainbow darters that prefer high quality habitats were found in headwater channels that were basically agricultural ditches. Objective B: Nine ISCO automatic samplers have been installed to take flow proportioned composite samples in five watersheds in Ohio and Michigan. A total of 442 samples representing 3,536 sampling events were analyzed at the Water Quality Laboratory at the University of Heidelberg, Heidelberg Ohio. The samples were analyzed for concentrations of ammonium, chlorides, sulphates, nitrites, nitrates, silicates, soluble reactive phosphorous, total phosphorous, total kjeldahl nitrogen and suspended solids. Additionally, flow stages were also monitored continuously. Feasibility studies were made on installing temporary flashboard risers on some of the ditches. Analysis of the data has not been initiated but very high runoff events early in the growing season and in the fall resulted in very high nitrate levels
- often exceeding 20 mg/l.
Impacts
As part of the TMDL study, we are sampling geomorphological and ecological data at multiple spatial scales, including detailed measurements in two subwatersheds. One very important question we are attempting to address is, at what spatial scale can landuse be meaningfully linked to stream water quality in the TMDL process? Assumptions are made in most TMDL studies that existing data from Ohio EPA or other agencies have been collected at the appropriate scale to quantitatively analyze the data. In many cases, these TMDL studies produce "science-relevant" data sets instead of "decision-relevant" ones, which limits their usefulness to make land management decisions on the ground (Williams et al. 2004). Also, TMDL studies usually lack adequate consideration of instream processes that can have a significant influence on water quality. Therefore, our research might lead to better methods on what should be considered and how to do this. Outcomes from the agricultural ditch
research have the potential to reduce maintenance needs and to help reduce nutrient loadings to rivers.
Publications
- Ward, Andy, Matthew T. Moore, Virginie L. Bouchard, Kelly Powell, Dan Mecklenburg, Charles M. Cooper and Sammie Smith, Jr. 2004. Water Quality Benefits of Grassed Fluvial Features in Drainage Ditches. Proceedings, The Sixth International Conference on Hydro-Science and Engineering, Brisbane, Australia May 30 - June 3.
- Williams, L.R., M.L. Warren Jr., S.B. Adams, J.L. Arvai, and C.M. Taylor. 2004. Basin visual estimation technique (BVET)_ and representative reach approaches to wadeable stream surveys: methodological limitations and future directions. Fisheries 29(8):12-22.
- Witter, J., J.L. D'Ambrosio, A.D. Ward, L.C. Brown, L.R. Williams, and K.W. King. 2004. Watershed planning, TMDL development, and research in the Olentangy watershed. American Society of Agricultural Engineers (ASAE) Annual Conference, St. Paul, Minnesota.Abstract published in Proceedings Self-Sustaining Solutions for Streams, Wetlands, and Watersheds, ASAE Publisher, St. Joseph, Michigan. pp. 401.
- D'Ambrosio, J.L., A.D. Ward, and L.R. Williams. 2004. An investigation of strategies to predict flood-peak discharges on variously-sized watersheds in Ohio. American Society of Agricultural Engineers (ASAE) Annual Conference, St. Paul, Minnesota. .Abstract published in Proceedings Self-Sustaining Solutions for Streams, Wetlands, and Watersheds, ASAE Publisher, St. Joseph, Michigan. pp. 383.
- Morris, A.E.L., P.C. Goebel, and L.R. Williams. 2004. Geomorphologically mediated associations between salmonids and large wood jams in a river of an old-growth northern hardwood-conifer watershed. Ohio Agricultural Research and Development Center (OARDC) Annual Conference.
- Morris, A.E.L., P.C. Goebel, and L.R. Williams. 2004. Landscape-mediated associations between salmonids and large wood jams in a river of an old growth northern hardwood-conifer watershed. 3rd Annual Western Great Lakes Research Conference, Minneapolis, MN.
- Morris, A.E.L., P.C. Goebel, B.J. Palik, and L.R. Williams. 2004. Large-scale geomorphic regulation of large wood jams and associated fish communities in a northern hardwood-conifer old-growth ecosystem. International Conference on Ecological Restoration, Victoria British Columbia.
- Schrecengost, M.A., and L.R. Williams. 2004. A comparison of the macroinvertebrate assemblages in first and second order streams in the Cuyahoga Valley National Park. Midwest Fish and Wildlife Conference, Indianapolis, Indiana.
- Taylor, C.M., R.A. Fiorillo, L.R. Williams, R.B. Thomas, T.L. Holder, and M.L. Warren Jr. 2005, Distribution, abundance, and diversity of upland stream fishes under variable environmental conditions. Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences (Accepted - pending revisions).
- Ward, A.D., D. Mecklenburg, G.E. Powell, L.C. Brown and A.C. Jayakaran. 2004. Designing Two-Stage Agricultural Drainage Ditches. Proceedings, ASAE 8th International Drainage Symposium. Sacramento, CA, March 21-24.
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