A Study of the Ecological Impact of the Timmons Road Bridge Construction on Linganore Creek

Abstract

An instream biomonitoring study was undertaken on Linganore Creek at the site of the Timmons Road Bridge construction. The effects of bridge construction on the aquatic ecosystem were assessed over a period of approximately 9 months. Physical, chemical, and biological parameters of water quality were measured. No significant difference was found between water samples collected above and below the construction site based upon a comparison of pH, temperature, dissolved oxygen, total solids, and Coliform count. The stream macroinvertebrate fauna, used as an indicator of the effects of siltation, however, showed significant differences in density between the control station and the downstream stations. The sampling station located in the midst of the construction site showed the most severe effects, reflected both by density and number of taxa present. Bottom samples collected after construction work on the bridge was completed indicate that the macroinvertebrate fauna has begun to re-establish itself in the study area.