Cooperator: Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources
Project Chief: Faith A. Fitzpatrick
Location: Bayfield County
Project Number: 9KO31
Period of Project: October 2002–September 2004
Problem
Tributaries to Lake Superior in Bayfield County, Wis., have accelerated erosion and sedimentation rates influenced by present and historical watershed land cover. Geomorphic conditions in the streams have been altered by changes in flood and sediment load characteristics. Flood magnitudes are elevated above those experienced prior to European settlement in the 1870s. These alterations are thought to be detrimentally affecting habitat for native brook trout populations. Accelerated sediment loads also may be impacting coastal wetlands along Lake Superior.
 The USGS is working with Trout Unlimited, several government agencies, a conservation organization, and a private consulting firm to assess the geomorphic character of five tributaries to Lake Superior in Bayfield Counties (Whittlesey Creek, Sioux River, Raspberry River, Bark River, and Cranberry River). The study involves identifying potential problem areas and assessing rehabilitation alternatives and watershed management strategies that relate specifically to rehabilitation of brook trout populations. Agencies involved in this study are the Wisconsin Department of Natural Resources (Great Lakes Protection Fund), U.S. Fish and Wildlife Service, Red Cliff Tribe, Bayfield County Land Conservation Department, Sigurd Olson Institute (Northland College), Inter-Fluve, Inc., and the U.S. Geological Survey.
Objective
The main objectives of this study are to: (1) identify present and historical geomorphic and hydrologic conditions and causes for instability in the five example tributaries, (2) collect detailed data needed to quantify geomorphic and hydrologic background conditions needed for specific rehabilitation activities, and
(3) suggest alternatives for rehabilitation.
Approach
The approach for the USGS component of the study was to provide Inter-Fluve and local government agencies with background geomorphic information that could be used to make sound management decisions.For all watersheds, drainage boundaries were constructed and watershed/landscape-scale land cover, soils, and geologic setting data were compiled. Longitudinal profiles were constructed. Video footage from helicopter surveys was analyzed for erosion and sedimentation hot spots. Reaches with past bank stabilization projects were evaluated. A ground-water model was completed for the Bayfield Peninsula. A rainfall/runoff model was completed for the Cranberry River. Valley cross sections, coring, and estimated sedimentation rates were established for reaches of the Cranberry River. A core also was collected near the mouth of Whittlesey Creek.
Progress (July 2003–June 2004)
Field data collection and analysis were completed. A draft USGS Scientific Investigations Report was written.
Plans (July 2004–June 2005)
The Scientific Investigations Report will be reviewed and printed.
Reports
Report to be published in 2005. |
