Water Temperature

High water temperatures stress aquatic ecosystems by reducing the ability of water to hold essential dissolved gasses like oxygen.

Why Temperature Is Important

Human activities should not change water temperatures beyond natural seasonal fluctuations. To do so could disrupt aquatic ecosystems. Good temperatures are dependent on the type of stream you are monitoring. Lowland streams, known as "warmwater" streams, are different from mountian or spring fed streams that are normally cool.

In a warmwater stream temperatures should not exceed 89 degrees (Fahrenheit). Cold water streams should not exceed 68 degrees (Fahrenheit). Often summer head can cause fish kills in ponds because high temperatures reduce available oxygen in the water.

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