Document Type

Thesis

Date of Degree Completion

Spring 1977

Degree Name

Master of Science (MS)

Department

Biology

Committee Chair

Robert Pacha

Second Committee Member

Thomas H. Thelen

Third Committee Member

Robert L. Brown

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine if deforestation by a recent outbreak of Douglas-fir tussock moth and logging of such deforested timber has had any effect on stream water quality. To determine this, seven different watersheds of three types were examined. The three types were: undamaged watersheds as controls, watersheds with deforestation and watersheds with deforestation where the timber was subsequently logged. Twenty-four variables were used to determine water quality. Included were seven biological and seventeen chemical variables.

In general, the results indicate only seasonal fluctuations and differences between watersheds due to inherent properties of individual watersheds. Increased turbidity levels were detected on logged watersheds which could be correlated with the logging activities.

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