The Influence of Environmental Policies on Native Fish in Lower Clear Creek, Colorado

Date of Award

8-26-2011

Document Type

Undergraduate Capstone Project

Degree Name

Master of Applied Science

Organizational Unit

University College, Environmental Policy and Management

Disciplines

Environmental Policy & Mgmt

First Advisor

John Woodling

Keywords

Clear Creek, Fish, Native fish, Environental policies, River, Urban fish, Urban stream restoration

Abstract

Lower Clear Creek is an urban stream supporting reproducing populations of nine native Colorado fish species. Habitat degradation and non-native species introductions are the two primary threats to native fish in North America and in Lower Clear Creek. Degraded aquatic habitat in Lower Clear Creek is caused by wastewater discharges, stormwater discharges, water diversions, channelization, and inadequate riparian cover. These influences, combined with non-native species introductions, are the primary threats to native fish in Lower Clear Creek. Creation and implementation of improved environmental policies can partially alleviate both threats. Native Colorado fish species would benefit from an intergovernmental or non-profit watershed organization, an environmental master plan and native fish habitat restoration in the Lower Clear Creek corridor.

Publication Statement

Copyright is held by the author. Permanently suppressed.

This document is currently not available here.



Share

COinS