Effects of surface water withdrawals and reservoirs on stream fishes in the Georgia Piedmont

Altering stream flows as a consequence of withdrawing water or building impoundments for water supply has the potential to degrade aquatic habitats relative to their ability to support native biota. Research on fish assemblages downstream from water withdrawals and water supply reservoirs in the lower Piedmont region of Georgia has shown a measurable decrease in species richness associated with either large withdrawal levels or use of reservoirs. Additional research is needed in the upper Piedmont, Blue Ridge and Ridge and Valley regions to refine and test predictions from this research. Improved predictive models could support water resource planning by helping to identify water supply strategies that would minimize impacts on stream fishes.Sponsored by: Georgia Environmental Protection Division U.S. Geological Survey, Georgia Water Science Center U.S. Department of Agriculture, Natural Resources Conservation Service Georgia Institute of Technology, Georgia Water Resources Institute The University of Georgia, Water Resources Facult