Spring Communities Monitoring
The extensive karst topography (i.e., a geologic formation of irregular limestone deposits marked by sinks, springs, and caves) surrounding Ozark National Scenic Riverways (OZAR) is conducive to the formation of springs. Over 300 springs are located at OZAR. Although most of these springs are relatively small, six are considered 1st and 2nd magnitude (Meinzer, 1927). The largest (Big Spring) has a maximum recorded discharge greater than 1270 cubic ft/sec and is ranked among the five largest springs in North America. The combined flows of these springs contribute heavily to the flows of the Jacks Fork and Current rivers. Such karst topography makes these unique systems vulnerable to biological and chemical degradation due to the rapid recharge of groundwater and transport of contaminants through the soluble bedrock system of caves, springs, and sinkholes. Springs often have poorly defined recharge areas which may represent the ultimate challenge in water quality protection of these systems. Additionally, the narrow jurisdictional boundaries of OZAR place the springs at risk to disturbance, as the watersheds that contribute to groundwater sources in the park are often left unprotected.
Monitoring the six largest springs at OZAR is directed towards maintaining their ecological integrity through assessment of periodic monitoring of aquatic vegetation, invertebrates, fish communities and their associated physical habitats. Monitoring data collected from the springs will provide a baseline for assessing the potential for, or extent of, a variety of man-made and natural disturbances. This monitoring program has been designed to incorporate the spatial relationship of these biotic indicators (aquatic invertebrates and fish) with water quality and instream and riparian physical habitats.
Reports
| Ozark National Scenic Riverways | |
Monitoring Questions and Approach
- Determine the annual status and trends in species diversity, abundance, and community metrics for vegetation, invertebrates, and fish occurring in the large springs at OZAR.
- Relate the community data to overall water quality and habitat condition (DeBacker et al., 2005).
Protocols
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Bowles, D. E., H. R. Dodd, M. H. Williams, L. M. Morrison, K. James, M. D. DeBacker, C. E. Ciak, J. A. Hinsey, G. A. Rowell, and J. L. Haack. 2008. Protocol for Monitoring Spring Communities at Ozark National Scenic Riverways, Missouri. Natural Resource Report NPS/HTLN/NRR - 2008/029. National Park Service, Fort Collins, Colorado. (PDF)
References
- DeBacker, M. D., C. C. Young (ed.), P. Adams, L. Morrison, D. Peitz, G. A. Rowell, M.H. Williams, and D. Bowles. 2005. Heartland Inventory and Monitoring Network and Prairie Cluster Prototype Monitoring Program Vital Signs Monitoring Plan. National Park Service, Heartland I&M Network and Prairie Cluster Prototype Monitoring Program, Wilson´s Creek National Battlefield, Republic, MO.
- Meinzer, O. E. 1927. Large springs in the United States: U.S. Geological Survey, Water-Supply Paper 557.
Reports
Go to the Reports page
Links
Contact Information
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David Bowles
Aquatic Resources Monitoring Leader (417-836-4702)