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.