Living With the Methow River
Monthly Activities and Learning Opportunities
August 2014
Fish depend on a constant supply of clean, cold water. In the Methow Basin, natural stream flow patterns consist of higher peak flows during the spring and lower base flows during the remainder of the year. Both are critical to stream health. Peak flows flush sediment, scour the stream bed, and rejuvenate aquatic habitat. Base flows sustain fish and aquatic organisms throughout the year.
Whether the result of drought, irrigation withdrawals, or other causes, low stream flows can be a serious problem for fisheries and stream health. Low flows reduce oxygen in the water, raise stream temperatures, and eliminate fish habitat. Water diversions that pull water from streams during low-flow periods can be especially damaging.
Many agricultural producers in the Methow are undertaking irrigation efficiency improvement projects. With efficiency improvements, the irrigator may be able to divert less water from the stream while still delivering the amount of water the crop demands. Efficiency improvements do not change the amount of water the plants receive. They just reduce diversion requirements. Efficiency improvements include water delivery improvements, point of diversion modifications, and upgrades from wheel lines to pivots.
This year’s MRC calendar connects to ADVENTURES, ACTIVITIES AND INFORMATION tailored to each month. If you haven't gotten your calendar yet, you can download an electronic version here.
Come back each month and find interactive activities, print outs, and suggested learning opportunities in our community.
Just follow the fish and engage in learning.
Previous Learning Opportunities:
January 2014
February 2014
March 2014
April 2014
May 2014
June 2014
July 2014
