Nardi, D.S.  1993.  Ecology of an impacted Northern Rocky Mountain Stream.  Master's Thesis University of Montana, Missoula.  pp.122.

*The following is the abstract from Nardi's thesis.  The thesis is available from the University of Montana's Mansfield Library.

Call# [ M 363.7394 N223e]

   

    This study was intended to examine, describe and compare the water of lower Ashley Creek.  Water samples were taken from four sites above the Kalispell Sewage Treatment Plant (KSTP) and two sites below.   Community respiration studies were conducted twice.

    The upper site of this study was affected by the small lakes and wetlands in the upper drainage.  The influx of organice matter lowered pH, and on five of the six sampling dates lowered dissolved oxygen (DO) to levels below the state standards.  Total persulfate nitrogen (TPN) was 2-4 times higher at that site and ammonia was 3-12 times higher than the concentrations in other impacted creeks in the area.

    Among the many changes, in water quality, caused by the KSTP were:  a 300% increase in TPN concentration, a 350% increase in soluble reactive phosphorus (SRP) concentration, and more extended periods of depressed DO concentrations.

    Water quality standards or criteria set by the State and/or EPA were exceeded for: turbidity at the lower 3 sites; chlorine in the KSTP effluent; ammonia below  the KSTP; dissolved oxygen concentrations below the KSTP and below Smith Lake; and probably pH just above the KSTP.

    In order to mitigate the effects, of Ashley Creek, on the Flathead River/Lake, nonpoint sources of pollution must be reduced and riparian areas must be reclaimed.  If the newly constructed KSTP also causes the water in Ashley Creek to drop below State and EPA criteria and standards, then land application or wetland treatment should be evaluated.